Welcome to our Paris Travel Guide, your ultimate companion to exploring the enchanting City of Light! Whether you're strolling along the Seine, marvelling at the Eiffel Tower, or indulging in world-class cuisine, Paris offers something for every traveller. From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, we’ll help you discover the best activity tours, cultural experiences, and must-visit attractions. Plus, we’ll recommend top accommodation options to suit every budget and share essential general tips to make your trip unforgettable. Get ready to fall in love with Paris—let’s start planning your adventure!
Visiting the Eiffel Tower is an essential part of any trip to Paris, and this activity tour offers an unforgettable experience with exclusive access to the summit. Standing at 276 meters, the top level provides breathtaking panoramic views of the entire city. After meeting your host at Le Champs de Mars Café on Avenue de la Bourdonnais, you will be guided to the second floor before taking a glass elevator to the summit. Here, you can admire the stunning cityscape and enjoy a glass of champagne from the summit bar, making for a truly romantic and memorable moment.
Included in the ticket is a one-hour Seine River cruise, which can be used at any time within a month. The cruise offers a unique perspective of Paris, gliding past UNESCO-listed landmarks such as Les Invalides, Notre-Dame de Paris, and the Conciergerie. While an audio guide is available, simply soaking in the sights makes for a captivating experience.
Why Book This Tour?
This tour is seamlessly organised, ensuring a stress-free experience. Booking through GYG is highly recommended for its efficiency and smooth coordination. Whether enjoying the romantic ambience at the Eiffel Tower summit or cruising along the Seine, this tour promises an unforgettable Parisian adventure.
The Paris Catacombs offer a fascinating and eerie glimpse into the city's history, with over six million people buried beneath its streets. Originally created to relieve overcrowded cemeteries, these underground tunnels now serve as one of the most intriguing historical sites in Paris. Despite visiting the city multiple times, this was our first time exploring the Catacombs, and it proved to be an unforgettable experience.
This tour involves extensive walking and requires some mobility, as there are areas where you’ll need to duck and maneuver through narrow passageways. We highly recommend it for those who are fit, mobile, and enjoy walking. To make the most of the visit, we booked a skip-the-line ticket with access to restricted areas—an absolute must, as the queues were exceptionally long. Exploring these exclusive sections was a highlight, offering unique insights not available on the standard tour.
Our guide, Amber, made the experience even more engaging. She was knowledgeable, professional, and had a great sense of humor, making the tour both educational and entertaining. Her enthusiasm was infectious, and her detailed explanations—especially in the restricted areas—provided a deeper understanding of the Catacombs' history and significance. If possible, we highly recommend requesting her as a guide.
The meeting point for this tour is in front of Café du Rendez-vous on Avenue du Général Leclerc, where you’ll begin with skip-the-line entry before embarking on a guided tour through the Catacombs, including access to restricted areas. This small-group experience is superbly organized, and with an exceptional guide like Amber, it is both a fun and educational journey through one of Paris’s most unique attractions.
The Louvre Museum is undoubtedly one of the most impressive art galleries in the world, and no visit to Paris feels complete without experiencing its vast collection. Every time we return, we find ourselves just as captivated as the first time, drawn in by the museum’s thoughtful curation and breathtaking masterpieces. Among our favorite works are Leonardo da Vinci’s Mona Lisa, Delacroix’s Liberty Leading the People, and David’s The Coronation of Napoleon—all must-see pieces that leave a lasting impression.
Given our positive experience with skip-the-line guided tours at the Catacombs, we decided to book one for the Louvre as well. This proved to be an excellent choice, as it saved us a significant amount of time and provided valuable insight into the museum’s vast collection. With over 38,000 artworks housed within the Louvre, having a knowledgeable guide helped us focus on the most iconic pieces while deepening our understanding of their history and significance.
Our guide, Angelo, was highly professional, incredibly knowledgeable, and enthusiastic. While slightly more serious in his approach, his expertise was well-suited to the setting, making for a fascinating and informative tour.
This experience begins at the skip-the-line entrance, where the guided tour provides direct access to some of the Louvre’s most renowned works. Given the museum’s sheer size, it’s impossible to see everything in one visit, but a guide ensures you experience the highlights in a structured and meaningful way. Booking in advance is highly recommended to make the most of your visit without long wait times.
The Palace of Versailles is one of the most remarkable attractions near Paris, located just 19 km (12 miles) west of the city. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it draws millions of visitors each year, and for good reason. With its ornate architecture, rich history, and breathtaking gardens, Versailles offers an unforgettable glimpse into France’s royal past.
Some of the most impressive areas within the palace include the Hall of Mirrors, the Royal Chapel, and the Museum of the History of France. The Hall of Mirrors is particularly striking, featuring 578 mirrors reflecting light from 17 grand windows, creating an almost ethereal glow throughout the gallery. The Royal Chapel, located on the south side of the palace, is a masterpiece of architecture, and easily one of the most stunning chapels we’ve ever seen. Our guide, Beatrice, provided incredible insight into the various architects who contributed to its creation, making the visit even more engaging. While the historical details may be more suited to a mature audience, the artistry of the chapel is something anyone can appreciate.
The highlight of our visit, however, was the legendary royal gardens. Spanning across vast grounds, the gardens are truly a masterpiece in landscape design, featuring ornate fountains, classical sculptures, and meticulously manicured lawns. It’s easy to spend hours wandering through them, taking in the grandeur and elegance that make Versailles one of the world’s most extraordinary palace estates.
We booked our tour through GYG, choosing a more premium option that included direct transportation from Paris to Versailles. While transport isn’t essential, it made the journey effortless and enjoyable. Our ticket included a guided tour, an audio guide, full access to the gardens, and transportation, making for a seamless and enriching experience. Whether you explore on your own or opt for a guided visit, Versailles is a must-see destination that perfectly complements any trip to Paris.
After many years, we decided to return to the Moulin Rouge for another cabaret experience, having last attended a show over 15 years ago. Just as we remembered, it was a spectacular night out in Paris—one that we thoroughly enjoyed and would happily experience again on a future visit.
We attended the world-famous ‘Féerie’ show, created by Doris Haug and Ruggero Angeletti, with choreography by Bill Goodson. The performance was flawlessly executed, blending mesmerising dance routines, dazzling feather and rhinestone costumes, and beautifully designed sets. The energy, music, and overall atmosphere made for an unforgettable evening.
Our tickets included half a bottle of champagne, which we quickly finished and found ourselves ordering more—because what’s a night at the Moulin Rouge without a little extra champagne? Whether it's your first time or a return visit, this legendary Parisian cabaret is an absolute must for an evening of glamour, entertainment, and pure spectacle.
Montmartre, located in northern Paris, is a charming district known for its artistic heritage, stunning viewpoints, and the iconic Basilica of Sacré-Cœur. It’s also a fantastic destination for cheese, pastries, and fine wines, making it the perfect place for a food-focused tour.
As passionate food lovers, we always seek out culinary experiences wherever we travel, and on this trip to Paris, we did two. While the macaron workshop was an enjoyable and educational experience (which we’d gladly recommend), our guided food tour of Montmartre was the true highlight.
Our host, Pierre, was a true expert in everything we sampled. His knowledge of wine, cheese, and pastry techniques was unparalleled. He knew exactly where to go, what to order, and how to explain the nuances of each delicacy across the eight stops on our tour. His enthusiasm and humour made the experience even more enjoyable. Of all the incredible food and drink we tried, our favourite stop was Titi Graille, where the wine and cheese pairing was simply unforgettable.
This was a true food tour experience, allowing us to walk through Montmartre like a local, eat where the locals eat, and learn from a guide with deep expertise. For anyone passionate about French cuisine and culture, this is an absolute must. 10/10—highly recommended!
Best affordable stay in Paris: Le ReMIX Hotel
Looking for style, comfort, and affordability in Paris? The ReMIX Hotel in the trendy La Villette district offers an unbeatable stay for travelers who want a budget-friendly yet modern and stylish experience.
This designer-refurbished hotel combines Parisian glamour with an 80s rock vibe, offering contemporary rooms equipped with USB ports, high-speed WiFi, Chromecast TV, and elegant marble bathrooms. The hotel’s co-working space, bar, and 24-hour reception ensure convenience whether you're visiting for business or leisure. A buffet breakfast is served daily from 06:30 to 10:00, providing the perfect start to your day.
Perfectly located, the ReMIX Hotel is just a short walk from the Zénith and Philharmonie de Paris concert venues. With metro lines 7, 5, and 3b, as well as the RER E, you can reach the Opéra district and other major attractions in just 15 minutes. For those who prefer to explore on two wheels, the hotel is accessible via the scenic Ourcq Canal, with a public bike station nearby.
For an affordable yet stylish stay in Paris, the ReMIX Hotel is the perfect choice. Book now and experience a blend of comfort, convenience, and Parisian flair.
Best Luxury stay in Paris: Hôtel Château Voltaire
Nestled in the heart of Paris, between the Opéra Garnier and the Tuileries Garden, Hôtel Château Voltaire offers an unparalleled luxury experience. This five-star boutique hotel seamlessly blends historical charm with modern elegance, providing guests with an intimate retreat in the city's vibrant center.
Each of the 32 meticulously designed rooms and suites exudes sophistication, featuring air conditioning, flat-screen TVs with satellite channels, and city views. Guests can indulge in the hotel's full-service spa, which includes a private-access wellness area complete with an indoor pool, cold plunge, and sauna—perfect for unwinding after exploring Paris.
Culinary delights await at the on-site restaurant, Brasserie l'Emil, known for its fine and simple fare that attracts both guests and locals. The chic bar, La Coquille d’Or, offers a moody ambiance with leather and velvet decor, ideal for evening relaxation.
Hôtel Château Voltaire's prime location allows for easy exploration of iconic Parisian landmarks, with the Louvre Museum and the Tuileries Garden just a short stroll away. The attentive staff is dedicated to providing exceptional service, ensuring a memorable stay for every guest.
Best Couples stay in Paris: Maison Proust
Nestled in the heart of Paris's fashionable Le Marais district, Maison Proust stands as the epitome of romantic luxury, offering couples an intimate retreat that seamlessly blends Belle Époque charm with modern elegance.
This five-star boutique hotel, inspired by the literary genius Marcel Proust, immerses guests in a world of opulence and refined taste. Each of the 23 meticulously designed rooms and suites is adorned with rich fabrics, antique furnishings, and art pieces that echo the splendor of Parisian salons from a bygone era. Couples can choose accommodations named after Proust's muses, such as the Princess Mathilde or Jean Cocteau suites, each offering a unique ambiance that fosters romance and intimacy
Maison Proust's commitment to providing an unparalleled romantic experience is evident in its exclusive amenities. The hotel's Spa La Mer offers a private-access wellness area, allowing couples to reserve the serene indoor pool and hammam for personal use, ensuring moments of tranquility and connection away from the city's hustle.
The on-site bar and restaurant exude a lavish yet intimate atmosphere, perfect for couples seeking to indulge in fine dining and crafted cocktails. The bar, beautifully decorated and romantic, serves unique cocktails like "La Madeleine" and "Le Temps Retrouvé," the latter being a luxurious choice priced at €500.
Located at 26 Rue de Picardie, Maison Proust offers couples the perfect blend of privacy, luxury, and Parisian charm, making it an ideal choice for a romantic getaway or honeymoon in the City of Love.
Paris experiences four distinct seasons. Spring (March-May) is mild and beautiful, with blooming flowers and temperatures ranging from 10-20°C (50-68°F), making it a great time to visit. Summer (June-August) is warm, with highs around 25-30°C (77-86°F), but it can be crowded with tourists. Autumn (September-November) sees cooling temperatures (10-20°C or 50-68°F) and stunning fall foliage, offering a quieter, romantic atmosphere. Winter (December-February) is chilly (3-7°C or 37-45°F) with occasional rain but fewer tourists and festive holiday lights. The best times to visit are spring and early autumn for pleasant weather and fewer crowds.