Having lived in Europe for nearly a decade, Paris is one of my two favorite cities and the most beautiful capital I have ever visited. I love Paris not only because it is an attractive tourist destination filled with fascinating cultural and historical experiences that align with my adventurous personality but also because of the close-knit Vietnamese community here.
In this article, I will share my experiences and recommendations to help you have a complete and memorable trip to Paris, based on the years I have lived and worked in this city. I hope these insights will contribute to your successful trip and allow you to fully embrace the beauty of Paris.
I. Overview of Paris
Paris is renowned as the capital of France and has consistently ranked as the world’s number one most-visited tourist destination for many years. The city is divided into twenty districts (arrondissements) and serves as the center of the Île-de-France region, which functions similarly to a metropolitan area encompassing multiple départements (departments) and villes (cities).
I once thought that living in Paris meant residing near the Eiffel Tower or strolling through charming old streets like those in Emily in Paris. However, most Parisians actually live in the surrounding provinces and cities. Inside Paris and its twelve districts, you will find world-famous restaurants, hotels, and tourist attractions.
Paris’ urban landscape is defined by grand boulevards and buildings designed in the distinctive Haussmannian architectural style. This includes large windows, intricately decorated balconies, and a romantic ambiance, creating an open and lively atmosphere.
This transformation was the result of a major urban planning project led by lawyer Eugène Haussmann, who was commissioned by Napoleon to turn Paris into one of the most beautiful cities in Europe.
Why is Paris the Most Attractive Tourist Destination in the World?
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First and foremost, Paris, the largest city in France, is divided into 20 districts (arrondissements), each with its own unique charm, making you feel a distinct atmosphere as soon as you cross the street.
Paris is arguably the city with the most famous tourist attractions in the world: the Eiffel Tower, Place des Vosges, Montparnasse Tower, Sacré-Cœur Basilica in Montmartre, the Panthéon, Les Invalides, the Louvre Museum, Pont des Arts, and many more historic alleys and landmarks that I have yet to fully explore after years of living here.
Paris has also been the backdrop for at least 1,000 famous films, including Le Fabuleux Destin d’Amélie Poulain, Moulin Rouge, Le Dernier Métro, The Da Vinci Code, Midnight in Paris, and the recent hit series Emily in Paris.
Paris—and France as a whole—is home to one of the finest culinary traditions in the world. That’s why the city boasts a diverse array of restaurants featuring cuisines from all over the globe. However, gastronomy isn’t the only thing Parisians excel at. Beyond food culture, art and creativity play a crucial role in the city’s identity, with hundreds of museums, exhibitions, and cinemas, making Paris truly deserving of its title as the cultural capital of Europe.
II. Planning Your Trip to Paris
Best Time to Visit Paris
In general, Paris enjoys pleasant weather from spring to autumn, between May and October. Spring brings a refreshing atmosphere with longer daylight hours and brighter sunshine. Temperatures can reach up to 20°C (68°F), and the city comes alive with outdoor cafés and vibrant street events. You can take part in major festivals such as the Hanami Cherry Blossom Festival or enjoy a scenic boat ride along the Seine River.
In my opinion, the most magical time to visit Paris is spring, when cherry blossoms bloom along the Seine. April can still be a bit wet, with alternating sunny and rainy days, but it marks the peak of cherry blossom season, covering the streets and Parc des Sceaux in shades of pink. From May onwards, the cityscape becomes even more radiant, making it a picture-perfect time to explore Paris.
The months of May, June, September, and October are the most popular for tourists visiting Paris. These months offer the most pleasant temperatures. Additionally, many major cultural and sporting events take place during this period, such as the Fête de la Musique (Music Festival), European Museum Night, and Nuit Blanche (White Night Festival).
July, August, and even September are the hottest months of the year, but the heat is far more tolerable compared to northern Vietnam. While summer temperatures in Vietnam can be overwhelming, Paris in August is actually a pleasant time to visit. Many Parisians go on vacation, making the city feel quieter. Traffic is easier, and queues for museums are shorter, although there are still plenty of tourists.
In autumn, the weather can sometimes be unpredictable, but the soft, golden hues of fall create a unique charm that other seasons don’t offer. The city transforms with beautiful falling leaves, and mushroom picking becomes a beloved pastime for Parisians.
How to Choose Budget-Friendly Hotels in Paris
Although Paris attracts tourists year-round, there are certain times when the city is less crowded. During these off-peak seasons, you can take advantage of more affordable hotel prices and shorter queues at tourist attractions. However, you may have to accept less ideal weather conditions, which can still create a mystical and dreamy atmosphere for your Parisian photo shoots.
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Low season: November – March (except holidays)
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High season: May – July and September
To find the best hotel deals, check popular platforms like Airbnb and Booking
If you’re traveling with a group, consider Villa Sceaux—a luxurious villa just 15 minutes from central Paris by car.
Located right at the entrance of Parc de Sceaux, Villa Sceaux provides an exclusive balance between privacy, natural beauty, and modern elegance, all while being close to the vibrant city life.
You can book directly via Hotline: +33 6 41 50 10 38 or through Airbnb and Booking
How to Get to Paris
Getting from the Airport to Central Paris
By Taxi
For many Vietnamese travelers, who may not be familiar with French language or the public transport system, taking a taxi is a safe and convenient option to travel from Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) to central Paris.
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The journey takes 35 minutes to 1 hour, depending on traffic.
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Daytime fares range from €50 to €60.
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Nighttime, Sunday, and holiday rates increase by about 15%.
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To secure a better fare (from €26), you can pre-book an airport-affiliated taxi service, such as WeCab by TAXIS G7 at +33 1 41 27 66 77.
⚠️ Important: Paris often has heavy traffic, and taxi meters keep running even during traffic jams.
By RER B Train
The RER (Réseau Express Régional d’Île de France) is the public train network that connects Île-de-France. For travelers arriving in Paris, RER B is the most affordable and efficient way to get from CDG Airport to the city center.
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The journey from CDG to Gare du Nord takes approximately 30 minutes.
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Ticket price: €11.80 (one way).
⚠️ Safety Tip: When arriving at the airport, stay inside the airport premises while waiting for transportation. Do not stand alone at nearby bus or train stations, as there have been incidents of theft and luggage snatching in these areas.
Guide to Using Public Transport: Metro, Bus, and Bicycle
Unlike London, where you can easily walk from one neighborhood to another, Paris & Île-de-France covers a much larger area. That’s why Paris boasts one of the most advanced public transport networks among all the cities I’ve visited. This extensive network allows you to easily travel between locations and even from one city to another.
1. Metro (Métro)
The Paris Metro is the most practical and budget-friendly way to get around. With nearly 400 stations and 16 lines, the metro operates 7 days a week:
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Operating hours:
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5:30 AM – 1:15 AM (Sunday to Thursday)
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5:30 AM – 2:15 AM (Fridays & Saturdays)
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It allows you to travel around the capital and nearby towns efficiently.
✅ Tickets:
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T+ Ticket
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Paris Visite Pass (for tourists)
2. Regional Express Train (RER) & Transilien
Paris also has five RER train lines and Transilien commuter trains, which allow you to travel between Paris and surrounding provinces.
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The RER is faster than the metro when traveling across the city or to suburban areas.
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Transilien trains connect outer suburbs and towns beyond the RER network.
✅ Tickets:
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T+ Ticket (valid only within Paris)
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Paris Visite Pass
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Île-de-France regional tickets
📍 More Info: www.transilien.com
3. Buses (Bus & Noctilien)
🚌 Daytime Bus Service
Paris has nearly 300 bus lines covering Île-de-France. Buses allow you to travel while enjoying the city views—a great alternative to the underground metro.
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Operating hours:
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7:00 AM – 10:30 PM (most routes)
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Some lines run until 12:30 AM
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✅ Tickets:
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T+ Ticket (can be purchased at metro stations)
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Paris Visite Pass (for tourists)
🌙 Noctilien (Night Buses)
If you’re out late and the metro is closed, you can use Noctilien night buses.
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Operating hours: 12:30 AM – 5:30 AM
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42 bus lines cover Paris and Île-de-France for safe night travel.
✅ Tickets:
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T+ Ticket
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Paris Visite Pass
📍 More Info: www.ratp.fr
4. Trams (Tramways) 🚊
Paris and its suburbs have 8 tram lines running mainly around the outskirts of the city.
✅ Tickets:
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T+ Ticket
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Paris Visite Pass
IV. Must-Visit Attractions in Paris
1. Eiffel Tower, Trocadéro Square & Champ de Mars
🇫🇷 Eiffel Tower is the ultimate symbol of Paris, though ironically, many Parisians initially opposed its construction! Today, no first-time visitor to Paris—or even Europe— would consider their trip complete without seeing it.
🌟 Best Viewing Spots:
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From the Plane ✈️ – If you’re lucky, you might spot it from the sky before landing.
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At Night 🌙 – Its shimmering golden lights dominate the Parisian skyline.
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From Trocadéro Square 🏛️ – This is the best place for iconic photos, with a clear view of the tower.
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Champ de Mars 🌳 – A great picnic spot beneath the tower, especially during spring and summer.
Tips for the Best Eiffel Tower Experience
1️⃣ Book Tickets in Advance 🎟️
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The queues can be extremely long, especially during peak season. Pre-book online to save time.
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Choose between:
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2nd Floor Only (cheaper, amazing views)
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Summit Access (best panoramic view of Paris)
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Stairs or Elevator? Stairs are cheaper and less crowded, but it’s a workout!
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2️⃣ Visit at Sunset 🌇
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Get the best of both worlds—see Paris in daylight and watch the city light up at night!
3️⃣ Dine with a View 🍽️
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Madame Brasserie (1st Floor) – Elegant dining with panoramic views.
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Le Jules Verne (2nd Floor) – Michelin-starred restaurant for a luxurious experience.
4️⃣ Combine with a Seine River Cruise 🚢
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Many tickets include a boat tour—a romantic and scenic way to see Paris from the water.
5️⃣ Relax at Champ de Mars 🌳
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After visiting, enjoy a picnic on the green lawns under the tower, especially in summer!
Tips for Visiting the Louvre & Tuileries Garden
🖼️ Louvre Museum – The World’s Largest Art Collection
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Must-See Masterpieces:
✅ Mona Lisa – Leonardo da Vinci
✅ Venus de Milo – Ancient Greek statue
✅ Winged Victory of Samothrace – Iconic marble sculpture
✅ Liberty Leading the People – Eugène Delacroix
⏳ How Much Time Do You Need?
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Quick Visit: 2-3 hours (highlights only)
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Art Lover’s Tour: 5-6 hours
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Full Exploration: Multiple visits needed!
🎟️ Skip-the-Line Tickets
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The Louvre is extremely crowded, so pre-booking tickets online is a must.
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Consider a guided tour for deeper insights.
🌿 Relaxing at Tuileries Garden
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After exploring the Louvre, unwind at the garden.
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Best spots: Fountain area (perfect for reading), tree-lined paths, or outdoor cafés.
🚀 Pro Tip: Visit the Louvre in the evening (Wednesdays & Fridays until 9:45 PM) for fewer crowds!
Exploring Montmartre & Sacré-Cœur Basilica
🏛️ Montmartre – The Bohemian Heart of Paris
Montmartre is one of the most artistic and romantic areas of Paris. This historic hilltop district has inspired artists like Picasso, Van Gogh, and Dalí.
🌟 Must-See Spots in Montmartre:
✅ Sacré-Cœur Basilica – Stunning panoramic views of Paris.
✅ Place du Tertre – A lively square filled with street artists.
✅ Rue de l’Abreuvoir – One of the most picturesque streets.
✅ Le Mur des Je T’aime (Wall of Love) – A romantic hidden gem.
🚶♂️ How to Explore?
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Walk up the charming cobbled streets OR take the funicular for an easier ride.
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Arrive early in the morning or during sunset for breathtaking views.
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Visit a traditional Parisian café for a relaxed moment (Café des Deux Moulins, from Amélie movie, is a great choice!).
⛪ Sacré-Cœur Basilica – The Crown of Montmartre
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Free to enter! 🆓
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Open daily from 6:30 AM – 10:30 PM.
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The dome offers one of the best panoramic views in Paris (climb 300 steps!).
✨ Pro Tip: Montmartre has a mystical charm at night. If you enjoy night photography, this is the perfect place!
Notre-Dame de Paris & Sainte-Chapelle – A Journey Through Parisian History
⛪ Notre-Dame de Paris – A Symbol of Parisian Legacy
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One of the most iconic Gothic cathedrals in the world.
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Situated on Île de la Cité, offering stunning riverside views.
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Badly damaged in the 2019 fire, but restoration is ongoing.
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Expected to reopen to visitors by December 2024.
✨ Must-Do Near Notre-Dame:
✅ Walk along the banks of the Seine for classic Parisian views.
✅ Visit Shakespeare and Company, the world-famous English bookstore.
✅ Stop by Square Jean XXIII behind the cathedral for a quiet retreat.
🌈 Sainte-Chapelle – A Hidden Jewel of Paris
🏰 Located inside the Palace of Justice, just minutes from Notre-Dame.
🌟 Features stunning stained glass windows, depicting biblical stories.
📅 Open daily from 9 AM – 7 PM (longer hours in summer).
🎟️ Entry fee: ~11,50€ (free for EU residents under 26).
💡 Pro Tip:
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Visit Sainte-Chapelle on a sunny day ☀️ to see the stained glass at its most radiant!
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Buy a combined ticket with Conciergerie, another historic site nearby.
Sainte-Chapelle & Opéra Garnier – Must-Visit Cultural Landmarks in Paris
🌈 Sainte-Chapelle – A Stained Glass Wonderland
🏰 Located on Île de la Cité, near Notre-Dame de Paris.
🎨 Famous for its 15-meter-high stained glass windows, depicting 1,113 biblical stories.
✨ Built in the 13th century as a royal chapel for King Louis IX.
📍 Address: 10 Boulevard du Palais, 75001 Paris
🕘 Opening Hours: 9 AM – 7 PM (longer hours in summer)
🎟️ Ticket Price: ~11,50€ (free for EU residents under 26).
💡 Best Tip: Visit on a sunny day ☀️ to see the most dazzling light reflections!
🎭 Opéra Garnier – A Masterpiece of Parisian Architecture
✨ One of the most spectacular opera houses in the world.
🎼 Built in 1875, designed by Charles Garnier.
🕰️ Inspiration for “The Phantom of the Opera” by Gaston Leroux.
👑 Lavish grand staircase, golden chandeliers, and Marc Chagall’s painted ceiling.
📍 Address: Place de l’Opéra, 75009 Paris
🎟️ Tour Ticket: ~14€, or book a live ballet/opera performance for a magical evening.
💡 Insider Tip:
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Take a guided tour to learn about its history & hidden details.
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Dress elegantly if attending a ballet or opera performance for a true Parisian experience!
Exploring Champs-Élysées & Luxembourg Gardens
🌟 Champs-Élysées Stroll
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🏙️ One of the most famous avenues in the world.
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🎄 If visiting during Christmas, enjoy the magical holiday lights.
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🛍️ Luxury & flagship stores: Louis Vuitton, Chanel, Cartier, and more!
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☕ Best Tip: Stop for coffee at a classic Parisian café and people-watch.
🌿 Luxembourg Gardens (Jardin du Luxembourg)
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📍 Located in the Latin Quarter, south of the Seine.
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🏛️ Home to the Luxembourg Palace, where the French Senate meets.
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⛲ Famous Medici Fountain, beautiful flower beds, and statues.
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📖 What to do:
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Read a book in a classic green chair.
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Enjoy ice cream on a sunny day.
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Watch locals playing pétanque (French boules).
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💡 Best Tip: Visit during spring or autumn for the most stunning scenery! 🍂🌸
Musée d’Orsay – A Must-Visit Art Haven in Paris 🎨
🏛️ Why Visit Musée d’Orsay?
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The second most visited museum in Paris, after the Louvre.
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Housed in a former railway station, featuring a stunning Belle Époque clock.
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🖼️ Home to masterpieces by Monet, Rodin, Cézanne, and Gauguin.
🌟 What to Expect?
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Ground Floor: Early Impressionism & Realism (Courbet, Manet, Renoir).
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Middle Floors: Post-Impressionism & Symbolism (Van Gogh, Gauguin, Toulouse-Lautrec).
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Top Floor: The iconic Clock Tower View—perfect for capturing Paris from above!
💡 Best Tip: Buy skip-the-line tickets in advance to avoid long queues!
Centre Pompidou – Paris’ Modern Art Gem 🎭
🏛️ Why Visit Centre Pompidou?
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Home to Europe’s largest collection of modern & contemporary art.
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Features Picasso, Duchamp, Kandinsky, and Matisse.
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An architectural marvel, with its inside-out design (exposed pipes & escalators!).
🎨 What to Expect?
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Permanent Collection: Avant-garde & surrealist works.
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Temporary Exhibitions: Showcasing world-class modern artists.
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Panoramic Rooftop View: A breathtaking sight of the Eiffel Tower & Paris skyline.
💡 Best Tip: Visit in the evening for fewer crowds & a mesmerizing sunset view!
Les Invalides – Napoléon’s Resting Place & Military History Hub 🏛️
⚔️ Why Visit?
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Napoléon Bonaparte’s Tomb – Resting under a grand golden dome.
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Musée de l’Armée – A treasure trove of military history, from medieval armor to WWII artifacts.
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Fascinating Vietnamese Artifacts – Includes Emperor Gia Long’s sword, taken during the 1885 “Fall of Huế.”
✨ Best Experience?
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Stroll through the golden-domed courtyard before entering.
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Take a deep dive into France’s military past, from Napoléon’s campaigns to World War strategies.
💡 Tip: Visit in the morning to avoid crowds & admire the dome under the soft Parisian sunlight! 🌞
Exploring the Latin Quarter and the Panthéon
With its neoclassical architecture inspired by the Roman Pantheon, the Panthéon is one of the main landmarks of the Latin Quarter, standing out from the architecture of other neighborhoods.
The Underground Crypts and Iconic Domes
The underground crypts or the majestic domes are the main attractions of these buildings. When you step into this area, you’ll immediately feel a distinctly Roman architectural style, which contrasts with the rest of Paris. Even if you can’t go inside, simply admiring the tower from the outside and strolling through the charming streets is a delightful experience.
The Latin Quarter is also famous for its budget-friendly restaurants, where you can find delicious meals for just €12 to €20, such as Chez Nicos or Malena.
Climbing to the Montparnasse Tower Observation Deck
Want to see all of Paris at once? Looking for a breathtaking view of the Eiffel Tower and all of the city’s famous landmarks? At the Montparnasse Tower, located right in the city center, you’ll get a stunning panoramic view of Paris—both day and night.
An Unforgettable Experience at Montparnasse Tower
After just 38 seconds in the elevator, you’ll arrive at an unforgettable experience—the best panoramic view of Paris from a height of 200 meters!
Right before your eyes, the Eiffel Tower will stand tall against the twilight sky, creating a memory you’ll never forget. Just like the Empire State Building in New York, the Montparnasse Tower Observation Deck offers a completely unique perspective of the historic landmarks of Paris.
Join a Walking Tour of Paris
If you’re short on time or only visiting Paris for a few days, you can save valuable time by booking an airport transfer service. But if you could only choose one activity, a guided walking tour of the city center would be an excellent option.
Since Paris is such a popular destination, many companies organize walking tours that cover the most famous attractions in the city center, available in multiple languages. Simply search for keywords like “Get Your Guide Paris” or “Local Guide Paris”, and you’ll find numerous options for walking tours that take you to the city’s most iconic landmarks.
Relax on a Seine River Cruise
A Seine River cruise is one of the must-do activities in Paris. The city’s layout allows you to enjoy stunning views of its magnificent architecture from the riverbanks.
For just €11, you can get a budget-friendly ticket for a Seine River cruise. When I traveled with my family, we chose a hop-on, hop-off ticket, which allowed us to stop at various piers to explore and take photos.
Alternatively, you can opt for a dinner cruise or a one-hour sightseeing cruise, depending on your preference.
Relive Your Childhood at Disneyland Paris
There’s a child inside all of us, which is why we still love theme parks like Disneyland. After more than 60 years since its first opening, Disneyland now has five locations across four countries, including the City of Lights—Paris.
At Disneyland Paris, you’ll enter a world of endless fun with attractions suitable for all ages. End your magical day by witnessing the spectacular fireworks show as night falls over the park.
Visit the Palace of Versailles
Ranked among the top 10 most-visited attractions in France, the Palace of Versailles can get extremely crowded, especially on weekends and Tuesday mornings.
Versailles is a grand complex of castles and palaces, once home to France’s most influential kings—Louis XIV, Louis XV, and Louis XVI.
To avoid long queues, try visiting outside of peak tourist seasons and plan ahead to maximize your time exploring this historic masterpiece.
Eating & Shopping in Paris
Taste Traditional and Modern French Cuisine
France is globally recognized for its gastronomy and art of living. Since 2010, the French meal and its recipes have been listed as an Intangible Cultural Heritage by UNESCO. Here are some great yet affordable places to enjoy French cuisine.
Bouillon Julien – One of Paris’ Most Beautiful and Affordable Restaurants
At Bouillon Julien, you can enjoy classic French dishes at reasonable prices in a stunning Art Nouveau setting.
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Starters:
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Oeufs Durs Mayonnaise (Hard-boiled eggs with mayonnaise) – €4.30
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Escargots de Bourgogne (Burgundy snails) – €9.80
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Main Courses:
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Saucisse Aveyronnaise (Aveyronnaise sausage with mashed potatoes and savory sauce) – €11.90
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Hampe de Bœuf Stroganov (Beef Stroganoff) – €12.60
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With its blend of culinary excellence and artistic elegance, Bouillon Julien is more than just a restaurant—it’s an experience where you can enjoy both gourmet food and the ambiance of Paris’ finest Art Nouveau architecture.
Bouillon Pigalle – A 19th-Century-Style Parisian Gem
Bouillon Pigalle is another stunning and highly popular restaurant, offering a 19th-century Parisian ambiance. The place is often crowded, so expect a lively atmosphere and quick service from the staff.
Despite its elegant decor, Bouillon Pigalle maintains affordable prices, making it a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
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Oeufs Mayonnaise (Hard-boiled eggs with mayonnaise) – €2.50
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Poulet-Frites (Chicken with fries) – €9.80
If you’re looking for delicious and budget-friendly French cuisine in a classic Parisian setting, Bouillon Pigalle is definitely worth a visit!
Phở 13 – A Taste of Vietnam in Paris
If you’re craving authentic Vietnamese cuisine, head over to Paris’ 13th district, also known as the city’s Little Vietnam. Here, you’ll find an extensive selection of Vietnamese dishes, from Phở Bắc (Northern-style pho) to Bún Bò Huế (spicy beef noodle soup) and Bánh Canh (Southern-style thick noodle soup).
Among the many Vietnamese restaurants in the area, Phở 13 stands out as one of the oldest and most renowned. It’s a must-visit spot for those looking to enjoy a bowl of traditional Vietnamese pho in the heart of Paris!
Shopping Tips: From Local Markets to Galeries Lafayette
Galeries Lafayette is France’s largest and most prestigious luxury department store chain, with its flagship location on Boulevard Haussmann in Paris’ 9th district. Though initially based in France, the brand has since expanded worldwide. In 2019, the company recorded an annual revenue of 5 billion euros.
A visit to Galeries Lafayette is an experience in itself—you’ll be immersed in high-end fashion brands, entertainment spaces, and stunning city views from the rooftop terrace.
VII. Travel Tips for Visitors
How to Save Money in Paris
🔹 Use Public Transport
If you’re traveling from another European country and are used to subways and trams, opting for public transport will save you a lot of money compared to taking taxis. If you’re unfamiliar, don’t worry—you’ll get used to it quickly. Simply download the RATP app (ratp.fr), enter your starting point and destination, and the app will suggest the best metro or bus routes to get you there.
🔹 Dining in Montmartre
Food in Montmartre is much cheaper than in other areas of Paris. With a charming French ambiance, you can enjoy a relaxing evening at a local bistro, trying classic French dishes like Ratatouille or Moules Frites (mussels with fries).
If you’re not in the mood for a sit-down restaurant, don’t miss the street food vendors—they serve delicious treats like Nutella crêpes and warm churros, which you can enjoy while listening to street musicians performing live.
Strolling & Sightseeing!
Paris is a city where you can simply lift your camera and capture stunning photos—accompanied by amazing, free experiences.
For instance, just watching the Eiffel Tower light up at night is a dream for many. From Trocadéro Square, both tourists and locals often wait for hours to witness the Eiffel Tower sparkle in its golden lights, creating a truly magical moment.
Instead of a Cruise, Take a Walk Along the Seine
Rather than spending money on a river cruise, consider walking along the Seine—from the Eiffel Tower to Notre-Dame Cathedral—and enjoy the ever-changing Parisian atmosphere. At times, the vibe is lively, with groups practicing Latin dance, and at other times, it’s romantic, accompanied by the soulful strumming of street musicians’ guitars.
During this scenic walk, you’ll pass by Palais de Tokyo, the Grand Palais, the Petit Palais, the iconic Pont Alexandre III, Place de la Concorde, the Tuileries Garden, the Louvre Museum, the Orsay Museum, and the famous Pont des Arts (Lovers’ Bridge). Be sure to check a detailed map and make sure your route includes the Champs-Élysées.
Avoiding Scams & Pickpocketing in Paris
While Paris is stunning and charming, it does have a major downside: scams and petty theft. Asian women are often the primary targets for scammers. Various scams include:
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Fake charity petitions & donation requests
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“Helpful” strangers offering to buy metro tickets for you
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People following you and waiting for the right moment to steal your belongings
Here are some general tips to stay safe in Paris:
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On public transport, avoid using your phone openly and don’t wear a camera around your neck. If you must use your phone, stand far from the metro doors.
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During crowded metro rides, wear your backpack in front and keep your bag close to your body. Be cautious if you notice a group of two or three people standing unusually close—one will distract you while the other steals your valuables.
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If you find yourself walking through deserted areas at night, it’s safer to take an Uber or taxi rather than walking alone.
Summary
Visiting Paris is more than just exploring a city of history and culture—it’s an immersive journey into art, gastronomy, and vibrant urban life.
From its magnificent architecture to mouthwatering cuisine and romantic riverbanks, Paris never fails to enchant. Armed with the knowledge from my Paris travel guides, I hope you’ll get the chance to uncover every hidden gem in the City of Light and create unforgettable memories.
Get ready for this exciting adventure, and let Paris capture your heart with its beauty and charm.
If You Visit Paris, Don’t Miss Villa Sceaux!
Villa Sceaux is the perfect place for your vacation or business trip.
📞 Book directly via Hotline: +33 6 41 50 10 38 | Or on Airbnb and Booking apps