Paris is a city that never fails to amaze us. From its world-famous landmarks to quiet side streets, the city is a perfect blend of history, culture, and modern life.

As the capital of France and the heart of the Île-de-France region, Paris is home to over 2 million residents in the city and more than 13 million in the metropolitan area.

Every corner we explore tells a story, from the grand boulevards to hidden cobblestone alleys, making every step in Paris an adventure waiting to unfold.

Best Time to Visit

The ideal months for visiting Paris are April to June and September to October, when the weather is mild and crowds are smaller. Summer (July–August) is warm but busy, while winter brings fewer tourists but colder temperatures. We recommend early morning visits to popular sites like the Louvre or Eiffel Tower to avoid lines, and late afternoon walks along the Seine for golden-hour photos.

Rain is possible in spring and fall, so we suggest carrying a small umbrella or raincoat.

Getting Around Paris

Paris has an extensive and efficient public transportation network: Metro, buses, RER trains, trams, and bike-sharing.

- Metro & RER: Single ticket $2.10; unlimited day pass (Mobilis) $8

- Buses & Trams: Covered by Metro tickets

- Taxis & Ride-sharing: Short rides $12–$20

- Vélib' Bike-sharing: $1.50 for the first 30 minutes

We find that walking is also a great way to explore central districts like Le Marais, Saint-Germain, and Latin Quarter, where streets are full of cafés, shops, and hidden corners. Combining Metro rides with walking is often the most efficient way to see both major landmarks and off-the-beaten-path streets.

Top Attractions and Costs

1. Eiffel Tower

- Tickets: Summit + Elevator $29, Second Floor Only $18

- Hours: 9:30 AM – 11:45 PM

Tip: Buy tickets online to skip long lines; sunset visits offer the most stunning views.

2. Louvre Museum

- Tickets: $20

- Hours: 9 AM – 6 PM, closed Tuesdays

Tip: Focus on highlights like the Mona Lisa, Venus de Milo, and Egyptian Antiquities to avoid fatigue.

3. Notre-Dame Cathedral & Île de la Cité

- Tickets: Free entry; Tower climb $11

- Hours: 8 AM – 6:45 PM

Tip: Explore nearby Île Saint-Louis for cafés, ice cream, and boutique shops.

4. Sacré-Cœur & Montmartre

- Tickets: Free entry; Dome $7

- Hours: 6 AM – 10:30 PM

Tip: Sunset from the dome gives panoramic city views; don't miss walking through Montmartre's charming streets.

5. Musée d'Orsay

- Tickets: $16

- Hours: 9:30 AM – 6 PM, closed Mondays

Tip: A quieter alternative to the Louvre, home to impressionist masterpieces by Monet, Van Gogh, and Degas.

6. Seine River Cruise

- Tickets: $15–$25 depending on duration

- Hours: Daytime and evening cruises available

Tip: Evening cruises offer romantic views of illuminated landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and Notre-Dame.

Accommodation Options

We can choose accommodations based on budget and location:

- Budget Hostels: $40–$70/night, ideal for short stays

- Mid-range Hotels: $100–$200/night, usually centrally located near Metro lines

- Luxury Hotels: $350+/night, often near landmarks like the Eiffel Tower or Champs-Élysées

Tip: Staying in 1st, 4th, 5th, or 7th arrondissements puts us within walking distance of major attractions, reducing transportation costs and travel time.

Dining and Food Costs

Paris offers options for every budget:

- Bistros & Cafés: Meals $15–$30 per person

- Street Food & Crepes: $5–$10

- Markets: Marché Bastille and Marché d'Aligre offer fresh produce and snacks for $3–$10

Tip: Avoid restaurants near major tourist sites; side streets often offer better prices and authentic flavors. Try local bakeries for fresh croissants or pain au chocolat in the morning—it's a simple but memorable Parisian experience.

Neighborhood Exploration

We recommend spending time exploring:

- Le Marais: Trendy shops, historic squares, and art galleries

- Latin Quarter: Bookstores, cafés, and student culture around Sorbonne University

- Saint-Germain-des-Prés: Chic boutiques, cafés, and quiet streets ideal for walking

- Montmartre: Artistic history, charming streets, and panoramic views from Sacré-Cœur

These neighborhoods offer a chance to experience local life, away from the main tourist crowds, while still being close to landmarks.

Tips for Travelers

- Always carry a Metro card or transportation app

- Bring small change for Metro tickets, cafés, and markets

- Book tickets online for Eiffel Tower, Louvre, and Seine cruises to save time

- Walk whenever possible to discover hidden streets and shops

- Learn basic French greetings; locals appreciate polite interactions

Exploring Paris Together

Lykkers, Paris in Île-de-France is a city where culture, history, and everyday life intersect beautifully. By planning ahead, we can enjoy landmarks, hidden corners, local cuisine, and vibrant neighborhoods—all while keeping our budget manageable. Let's explore Paris together, soak in its charm, and create memories that last a lifetime.