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• There are loads of types of vacations in Paris and the cost will depend on what type of trip you’re taking and for how long you’d like to stay. Here are the latest prices for a 3 night trip for 2 travelers: Top vacation $612; Family vacation $503; Romantic vacation $618; Luxury vacation $680; Budget vacation $387.

Why should you book a vacation package to Paris?

When should you book a vacation package to paris.

The best time to visit is between April and June and from October to early November. The weather is not too cold and there are fewer tourists. Flights and hotels are cheaper in early December, January, and February.

Where should you stay in Paris during your vacation?

For any vacation type in paris:.

Fraser Suites Harmonie Paris La Defense is a 5-star hotel located 2 miles from the airport, and just a 15-minute drive from landmarks like the Arc de Triomphe and the Roland Garros Stadium. It boasts a 24-hour fitness center and bar/lounge. The garden and terrace are a verdant haven in the city.

The Hotel Les Bulles Paris is a 4 star hotel which is comfortable and well-appointed. This is a very elegant and beautiful Beaux Arts hotel in the center of the City of Light. It's situated in the Latin Quarter, close to Notre Dame Cathedral and the Pantheon.

For family vacations in Paris:

The Novotel Paris Charles de Gaulle Hotel is an excellent option for families spending a layover in Paris, or on a quick weekend trip. The hotel is oriented toward savings for larger bookings and offers soundproofed, air-conditioned rooms. The Novotel Café restaurant will feed the whole family.

The Hotel Banke is a 5-star hotel located in central Paris. It's close to the Galeries Lafayette and Printemps department stores and the Theatre Mogador. The Louvre and Gustave Moreau Museum are about a mile from the hotel.

For romantic vacations in Paris

The Hotel Champerret Heliopolis is a quiet hotel in the 17th arrondissement, near the Champs Elysées and the gardens of the Boulevard Péreire. The hotel has been refurbished and promises guests personal service and plush furnishings. It has a private garden and the hotel's serenity lends itself to romance.

The Tiara Chateau Hotel Mont Royal offers a 24-hour airport shuttle and a spa where guests can get massages, wraps, or body scrubs. The Opera restaurant serves meals and the indoor indoor pool and gym provide relaxation. Gowns and slippers provide a romantic touch.

For luxury vacations in Paris:

The Hotel Splendide Royal Paris is a 5-star hotel that offers luxurious rooms, meals, a bar, an in-house spa for wellness treatments and proximity to all the major landmarks and attractions of Paris. The hotel boasts a central location within a 15-minute walk of the Grand Palais and Place de la Concorde. Airport transfers are arranged.

The Victoria Palace Hotel is a luxury establishment in Paris some 4 1/2 miles from the airport and a 15-minute walk from the Tour Montparnasse and Luxembourg Palace. There is a bar/lounge, and a daily buffet breakfast. Rooms have deep tubs, soft bathrobes, and slippers. The hotel arranges airport transfers.

For budget vacations in Paris:

The Porte de Versailles Hotel is a 3-star hotel in the 15th arrondissement, close to the Palais des Sports. The Eiffel Tower and Paris Catacombs are just 3 miles away.

The Ibis Styles Hotel is a popular airport hotel. Soundproofed and comfortable, it serves a daily buffet breakfast. The hotel offers super fast wifi and meals from Foody's Planet. The restaurant is child-oriented and Princess Leias and Han Solos welcome you to the restaurant.

Where to stay in Paris

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"There's nowhere quite like Paris and it's amazing to watch our guests light up when they see bucket list icons like the Eiffel Tower in real life. Don't forget to slow down and savour the freshly baked pastries from the local boulangerie and mingle with the locals in the sidewalk cafés and markets."

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See the Mona Lisa and Venus de Milo at the Louvre

You can’t take a Paris trip without visiting the Louvre. It’s the both the largest art museum and the most-visited museum in the world, and you can soak it all in with our special evening experience at the Louvre. You’ll discover masterpieces like the Mona Lisa with your Local Specialist and enjoy the quiet atmosphere without the crowds. Simply magical.

Visit the remarkable church of Saint-Sulpice

Paris is full of spectacular architecture, and the church of Saint-Sulpice may be one of the best. This medieval cathedral is the second-largest church in the city and your Paris travel guide will show you around the stunning facades, stained glass windows, impressive fountains, unique sundial, and the breathtaking organ, one of the largest in the world.

Enjoy a leisurely cruise along the River Seine

As the scenic centrepiece of Paris, you can’t miss exploring the iconic River Seine. We’ll wander along the pretty riverbank by day and take you on a special Seine cruise by night, when the City of Light is illuminated in twinkling lights. Look out for icons like the Eiffel Tower and the Notre Dame, and relax as you drift along this enchanting river.

Explore the Latin Quarter of Paris

When you travel Paris with Trafalgar, you’ll join a Local Specialist to discover the Latin Quarter, the city’s epicentre of culture, learning and creativity. See the ancient Sorbonne University, one of the world’s first universities, soak up the vibrant atmosphere of this student hotspot, and perhaps even stop by the legendary Shakespeare and Co bookstore.

Experience a traditional Parisian Cabaret

You’ve probably seen the Parisian Cabaret in dozens of movies and photos, but there’s nothing quite like experiencing the real thing. We’ll take you to the world-famous Moulin Rouge Cabaret, where you’ll enjoy dinner, champagne and a dazzling show of 60 dancers and over 1,000 costumes, for an incredible evening you’ll never forget.

Our top 5 things to do in Paris

With so many incredible Paris attractions to choose from, we’ll show you the very best things to do in Paris, from the beautiful Saint-Sulpice to the original Parisian cabaret.

Musée Rodin

Located just steps away from the Eiffel Tower, you can’t miss the spectacular Musée Rodin. Founded in 1916 by Auguste Rodin himself, the museum features the artist’s incredible sculptures within an 18th-century rocco mansion and a stunning three-hectare garden, along with his personal collection of paintings, photographs and ancient artefacts.

Paris Opera & Palais Garnier

If you want to experience the height of Parisian opulence, it’s got to be the Palais Garnier. This extraordinary building is a 1,979-seat opera house constructed in the late 19th-century, and is renowned as the setting for The Phantom of the Opera. Today you can discover its magnificent treasures or even spend a glitzy night at the opera or ballet.

Grand Palais

Located right across from the Champs-Élysées, the Grand Palais is an icon of Paris with its giant glass ceiling and Beaux-Arts style architecture. Its interior is even more thrilling, with national art galleries, science museums and exhibition halls all held under the famous dome, and you can easily spend a day or two here.

Best museums in Paris

When you travel Paris with Trafalgar, we’ll make sure you get your fill of the best Paris museums, from the iconic Louvre to the magnificent Opéra Garnier.

Ratatouille

Ratatouille is the ultimate French vegetarian dish, loved by all for its heartwarming local flavors. It’s essentially a vegetable stew, made with a rich tomato sauce and a rainbow of veggies like zucchini, eggplant and squash, and herbs like basil, garlic and thyme. One bite and you’ll fall in love with the home-cooked ratatouille of Paris.

One of France’s most famous recipes, Coq au Vin features wine-braised chicken served alongside ingredients like mushrooms and bacon. Across the country you will try many regional versions of this comforting dish, which translates fittingly to “rooster/cock with wine”.

French cuisine celebrates both savory and sweet ingredients, not just in the form of croissants. Find true street-food joy in the popular dessert of crêpes, with strawberries, Nutella, bananas and lemon curd just some of the toppings loved by locals and travelers alike. Or, try the national specialty crêpes Suzette with orange zest and caramelized butter.

Best food in Paris

Our Paris holidays are filled with the legendary Parisian cuisine, and we’ll show you all the best places to try your French favorites from fresh croissants to delicate desserts.

What to pack for Paris

French phrasebook

It’s a good idea to learn some common French phrases before arriving in Paris, and the locals are sure to appreciate your efforts to learn their mother tongue.

Camera & extra SD card

Paris is full of soul-stirring moments you’ll want to capture forever, so be sure to pack a few extra SD cards for all those special snaps and videos.

Comfortable shoes

Whether you’re wandering through the Louvre, or strolling along the River Seine, you’ll need a comfy pair of shoes on your Paris tour.

Formal wear

If you want to hit the town in Paris with a Moulin Rouge show or a night at the opera, be sure to bring a glamorous outfit to fit in with the chic locals.

All-weather clothing

Paris is known for its unpredictable weather, with rain one day and sunshine the next. It’s best to pack both warm and cooler layers so you’re prepared for everything.

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13 things you should know before traveling to Paris

Mar 31, 2024 • 7 min read

These top tips can help a first-time visitor get the most out of their time in Paris © Encrier / Getty Images

Fabienne is one of the author's of our  latest Paris guidebook . Here she shares what you need to know before visiting Paris for the first time.

Bustling, diverse and surprising: such is Paris !

Due to its variety and density, navigating the city for the first time may seem challenging. Even after nearly 20 years of living in Paris, I still encounter nuances in the local lifestyle and learn about Parisian peculiarities, such as being fined for taking a Metro corridor the wrong way.

Here are some practical tips and cultural insights to help you plan for your trip and better understand France's capital.

1. You will want more time in Paris than you think

As the busiest city in France, Paris isn’t short of events, attractions or activities. A glimpse of it can be caught in just a couple of days, but to truly experience the city's diverse sights and experiences, five days to a week is considered ideal. Paris can be enchanting year-round , yet it's worth noting that August is the traditional holiday period in France, which might mean encountering closures and a slowdown in local activities.

2. Book some main attractions in advance

With limited time, pinpoint in advance the main attractions you want to visit. Booking online for museums, exhibitions or theater performances will save you a lot of time waiting in lines. Remember, Parisians enjoy their museums as much as tourists do, so visiting on weekdays and starting early can significantly change your experience of busy landmarks.

3. Leave some time to wander

If you’re more the type who goes with the flow, you might want to stroll until you find yourself surprisingly lost, discovering the unique identity of each arrondissement  (district) . They are all shaped by various layers of history. With most landmarks concentrated in the city center, it is easy to wander around and never get bored. In fact, there's even a French word for this way to visit a place: flâner . 

You might traverse from the upscale Champs-Élysées to the tourist-packed Saint-Michel, then to the trendy Le Marais and the more bohemian Belleville, all within the city's boundaries, without even realizing it. For deeper insights, consider themed tours (food, culture, history, street art, architecture, etc). Many Parisians are eager to share their city with visitors, and it’s a great way to get first-hand insider tips.

4. Dress like a Parisian

Wear something comfortable, because Paris is best explored on foot. Dark clothes will generally help you blend in with the Parisians and help deter pickpockets. That said, if you are into dressing up, don’t feel shy! This is the home of couture after all. 

5. Personal space is important

More important – if you wish to blend in – is being mindful of personal space, especially on public transportation. The golden rule when navigating Paris, particularly on the Metro and RER (suburban train network) is to be unobtrusive. 

During busy times, especially at rush hour (from 7am to 9am and 5pm to 7pm), put your backpack or luggage down and avoid using fold-down seats. When the carriage is full, it's often better to wait for the next train, which usually arrives within minutes. Always keep to the right on corridors and escalators, and have your ticket or Navigo travel pass handy at all times for frequent ticket barriers and control.

6. Get familiar with cafe culture etiquette

The best places to experience Paris and its people are at the cafes. Take a moment to rest on a terrasse –  cafe tables on the street  – to people-watch while planning the next part of your day. Upon arrival, simply choose a table and sit; servers will come and attend to you. Bills are often left with the order on the table, but payment isn't expected immediately unless explicitly stated. Tipping is not required but always appreciated.

It's not uncommon to exchange a few words with people at neighboring tables, but it's equally normal and acceptable to keep to oneself, despite the close proximity of seating (as most establishments maximize their use of pavement space). Smoking tobacco is widespread in France, particularly at outdoor cafes. Indoor smoking is prohibited by law; so if you're wondering whether smoking is allowed, look for ashtrays on the tables. Additionally, Parisians generally value discretion, so loud voices might attract disapproving looks.

7. Try and speak French, even a little 

Despite the hustle, Parisians will generally stop to help if asked. Most people are able to give basic directions in English. The phrase "excusez-moi, parlez-vous anglais?" ("excuse me, do you speak English?") is the best way to get someone's attention. It's also polite to greet and say farewell to anyone you interact with, such as shopkeepers, with bonjour (or bonsoir  at night) and au revoir . 

Should you befriend locals, don’t be surprised to see them make a move towards your cheeks. La bise – giving kisses on the cheeks (two in Paris) – is the most common greeting among friends, including between men. However, as a foreigner, you won’t be expected to do it spontaneously. 

8. Bus and tram services are more accessible than the Metro

The few Metro stations that have elevators are indicated on Metro maps. Wheelchair users or those traveling with a stroller may find it easier to travel by bus or tram, as they are more spacious, at street level and usually equipped with ramps.

9. Always keep an eye on your belongings

Wherever you go, watch out for your personal belongings, as pickpocketing is a risk on the Metro and near popular tourist sites. Scammers may approach you with a petition to sign or items for sale, distracting you from a potential pickpocket accomplice. A "lost" jewel or banknote on the street is another distraction scam.

In some tourist areas, you might encounter people trying to place a bracelet on your wrist and then demand payment. In all cases, politely decline any unsolicited interaction and walk away. Be aware that souvenirs sold by street vendors, including plastic souvenirs at the bottom of the Eiffel Tower , are often significantly overpriced compared to those in shops.

10. Crossing roads can be complicated

Be cautious on the streets as some roads are shared, and cars, taxis, delivery trucks, bikes, scooters, motorbikes, skaters and pedestrians are expected to coexist in these busy spaces. Although the French drive on the right, be aware that bicycles and scooters may use dedicated lanes that sometimes run counter to the traffic direction or merge with pedestrian walkways. They are not always visible so watch out in all directions before stepping out into the road.

11. Paris is generally a safe city

Fortunately, Paris is a safe city overall. In localized areas in the north-east of Paris there can be occasional criminal activity, typically at night time. As a tourist, you are unlikely to be targeted for violent crimes based on race or origin, especially when sticking to central attractions. If you need transportation late at night when the Metro isn't running (it stops between midnight and 5am on weekdays, from 1:30am on weekends), it's safest to call a taxi or use a ride-hailing app.

Generally, Paris is welcoming and LGBTIQ+ friendly (Le Marais is one of the historic “gayborhoods” in Paris). Unfortunately, catcalling towards women can happen on the streets or on public transportation, despite efforts in raising awareness. Take reasonable precautions as you would in any big city: watch out for potentially aggressive behavior – particularly from individuals who may be intoxicated or disoriented – on the Metro or on the streets.

12. Every district has its own central police station

Unfortunately things do sometimes go wrong, so if you run into a situation where the help of the police is required, look for the closest police station. Every arrondissement has its own central office open at all times. Alternatively, dial the European emergency number (112). For the fire department, dial 18.

13. The standard of medical care is high

Should you be in need of medical assistance, Paris has the largest operating public hospital system in Europe with emergency rooms equipped to receive travelers. In case of emergency, dial 15 for the ambulance service. Over-the-counter medicines can be found at pharmacies, which are on almost every street in Paris, with English-speaking staff around tourist areas. A mapping app will direct you to the nearest 24-hour pharmacy, should you need it.

Keep planning your trip to Paris:

Bring home the perfect souvenir with Paris in 5 Shops

Learn how to navigate the City of Lights with The best ways to get around Paris

Plan an affordable trip with Paris on a budget

Stay on the cutting edge with these 5 new (and unexpected) cultural attractions in Paris

This article was first published Aug 5, 2021 and updated Mar 31, 2024.

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Weather & Climate

The Airports of Paris

Neighborhoods to Know

Driving in Paris

Paris Public Transportation

Tipping in Paris

Day Trips From Paris

Top Things to Do

Free Things to Do

Things to Do With Kids

Best Paris Parks & Gardens

Best Museums in Paris

Cabaret in Paris

Live Music in Paris

Shopping in Paris

Bastille Day in Paris

French Dishes to Try in Paris

The Best Restaurants in Paris

Where to Eat With Kids

Nightlife in Paris

Craft Beer Bars in Paris

Your Trip to Paris: The Complete Guide

Paris Guide: Planning Your Trip

Planning a trip to Paris? Congrats. Before you go, it's essential to learn a bit about when to visit, what to see and do, where to stay and eat out, and how to get around. Whether you're embarking on a first-time visit or already know the city well, this at-a-glance guide will help you take the necessary steps to plan your trip with ease—and enjoy the capital fully once you're there.

Planning Your Trip

• Best Time to Visit :  Generally, the best time to visit Paris is between late spring and late summer, when outdoor activities, lively events, and nearby day trips allow you to experience the city to the fullest. The winter holiday season is also a festive and cheerful time to go, but cold weather may detract some.
• Language:  French is the official language in Paris. Many speak English fluently or somewhat fluently, but make sure to use polite greetings in French.
• Currency:  The Euro (€) is the official currency  .
• Getting Around:   Paris is easy to navigate by metro, bus, and commuter-line trains (RER lines).
• Travel Tip:  If you do choose to visit Paris in high season (roughly April to early October), try getting up early to visit museums and other attractions; if possible, avoid big-ticket attractions like the Eiffel Tower on weekends.

Things to Do

Paris is home to many globally-renowned attractions, including the Eiffel Tower ; Notre-Dame Cathedral ; and the Louvre , the largest museum in the world . It's impossible to see and do it all during a single trip, but we recommend experiencing at least a few of the city's most iconic sights and museums during a first visit. You should also make time to get a taste of France's world-famous cuisine; attend an annual festival or gallery opening; and explore the city at night , when it's arguably at its most enchanting.

• See our guide to the 30 best sights and attractions in Paris, including museums, and monuments.
• Explore Paris in a more local way by getting to know some of the city's residential neighborhoods , and choosing among a few of its weird and offbeat attractions .
• Consider taking one or more day trips outside of the city to expand your horizons and get some fresh air. The Chateau de Versailles , Monet's Gardens at Giverny, and Chartres Cathedral are easily accessible by train and doable in a day.

Explore more attractions with our full-length articles on the best things to do with kids in Paris , Paris' best art museums , and the top shopping districts in the city .

What to Eat and Drink

As the capital of France, Paris is globally renowned for its excellent and creative cuisine—not to mention its fine French wines. There are 122 Michelin-starred restaurants in the city  , and with classic brasseries , mouth-watering patisseries , and open-air markets to boot, there are so many delicious ways to "eat your way" through the capital.

Even though Paris itself doesn't produce much wine of note these days, it's still a great place to learn about—and taste—some of the finest French bottles. Spend an evening at one of the city's best wine bars, or learn more about the history and production of wine at the Musée du Vin. Care for a creative and beautiful cocktail in an intimate setting? These secret bars in Paris offer a stimulating and intriguing evening out on the town. And if beer is more your speed, head to one of the best craft breweries in the capital .

To hone in on the best places to eat out, see our complete guide to dining in Paris , as well as features on the most romantic restaurants in the capital , dining out while vegetarian or vegan , and the best budget-friendly French restaurants to try.

Where to Stay

There are hundreds of hotels in Paris, which can make it a pretty daunting task to choose the "right" one. The best approach might be to first get an overview of the different Parisian districts and neighborhoods ("arrondissements" in French) and decide which one is most suited to your tastes, budget, and travel requirements.

When choosing a hotel, you'll want to decide whether you value design and boutique-style charm over the reliable, predictable comforts offered by international hotel chains such as Marriott and Sofitel. Some travelers would happily forego creature comforts such as large elevators, bathtubs, and spas in favor of more design-focused boutique establishments with perhaps fewer amenities. Finally, rental apartments can provide a more local experience; equipped with small kitchens, they can potentially save you money since you'll be able to cook at home some of the time.

Read our full guide to choosing the right accommodations in the capital , then browse recommendations on the best hotels in Paris and the best boutique hotels in Paris.

Getting There

Paris is one of the most popular destinations in the world, which makes it relatively easy to access by air and rail. You should be able to find competitive deals on airfare, lodging, or vacation packages—provided you compare prices and book several months ahead of your trip. A major hub for most international airlines, Paris is served by three major airports:

• Roissy-Charles de Gaulle Airport is Europe's busiest international hub and the largest airport in Paris. It's located roughly an hour northeast of the city; central Paris can be easily accessed via the RER B commuter line train, as well as by coach or taxi.
• Orly International Airport is located roughly ten miles south of central Paris and is a secondary hub for Air France. It's an excellent option for connecting to or from Paris and other European destinations, and can feel degrees less stressful than CDG. The RER line B train connects from Orly to central Paris.
• Paris-Beauvais/Tillé is located around 50 miles northwest of Paris and is served by numerous budget airlines, including Ryanair, Air Moldova, and Blue Air. This can be a good option if you're after ultra-low fares for flights from within Europe; on the downside, it will take extra time and expense to get to central Paris.

See more about the major airports of Paris in our full guide, and read up on the pros and cons of taking a taxi to and from the airport .

Culture and Customs

• While most locals in Paris speak some English, it's always recommended to learn some basic French travel expressions ahead of your trip. Polite greetings, questions, and expressions of gratitude will enrich your experience and smooth communication with Parisians, who often value efforts made by travelers to use a few words in French.
• It's customary to tip in Paris, but the practices are likely different from the ones you're familiar with in your home country. See our complete guide to tipping in Paris for some useful advice.
• The city is generally quite safe for travelers, although pickpocketing and scams targeting tourists remain a significant problem. See our full guide to staying safe in the French capital for more information.

Money Saving Tips

• Make sure to book flights and hotels well in advance to get the best deals, especially if you plan to go in late spring or summer when prices are at their highest.
• To save on getting around the city by public transport, consider buying the Paris Visite Pass . The pass, which can cover one or several days in the capital, offers unlimited use of metro, bus, trams, and RER trains. It also comes with discounts on select attractions and restaurants.
• Take advantage of the city's free museums, including the Petit Palais, Musée Carnavalet (Museum of Paris History) and the Modern Art Museum of the City of Paris.
• Annual events , such as Paris Museum Night and Nuit Blanche, open many of the city's top museums and art collections to the public for free.
• In the summer, free public events such as Seine-side beaches (Paris Plages) and open-air cinema can help to moderate the high cost of airfares and hotels. They're also a lot of fun. Meanwhile, many other summer festivals, such as the Jazz Festival at the Parc Floral, are inexpensive ways to enjoy a day of live music or other performances.
• If you choose to take a taxi, make sure it has a visible meter and an illuminated "Taxi Parisien" sign on the rooftop. Otherwise, you may become an unwitting victim of "unofficial" taxis that inflate fares for tourists.
• Instead of eating out in restaurants for every meal, consider staging a Parisian-style picnic instead. Stock up on French bread, pastries, quiche, and cakes at a neighborhood bakery, and get the rest of your picnic items at a local market or supermarket.
• Learn more about how to make the most of a trip to the capital on a tight budget by exploring the best free things to do in Paris .

Paris Convention and Visitors Bureau . "Euro, the European Currency."

Pascale Filliâtre, Atout France . "7 Tips for a Successful Visit to the Louvre." June 15, 2018.

MICHELIN Guide . "Paris Restaurants."

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BEST of Paris in One Day: Most Complete Itinerary (+Map & Tips)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: June 21, 2024

Are you planning to visit Paris for a day and wondering what you can see and do in such a short time? In this guide, we share a suggested 1-day Paris itinerary that will bring you to all the must-see spots and help you make the most out of your time. Find out!

Paris, France, is a fascinating city that has a lot more to offer than you could ever see in a week, let alone in a day. So figuring out an itinerary that allows you to see the best of Paris in one day can be overwhelming. But – with some advance planning and preparation – it’s definitely possible.

Below, you can find our recommended itinerary that allows you to see many of the ‘musts’ in Paris in one day. We also share a map as well as useful information and our experience-based tips to help you plan your first visit to this fascinating city.

Keep in mind that there is not one ‘best’ itinerary to follow for a day trip to Paris. So this is just one of many possibilities. The aim of this itinerary is to show you what’s possible and how you could plan your time if this is your first time in the city and you want to experience the very best of Paris in one day. Take a look!

Some planning tips and info to make the most out of your day in Paris:

Further below, you will find a detailed itinerary indicating what to see, plus approximate hours based on the time that you need in order to get to and visit the places. Please note that these are only meant for your reference, to give you a better idea of how it all could fit together and how to help you plan your time and pre-book time slots for all the sights.

Important to know: If you are exploring Paris on your own, you will need to book timed-entry tickets for all the attractions that you want to visit!!!

For this itinerary, you will need tickets to Sainte-Chapelle , either the Louvre OR d’Orsay Museum , the Eiffel Tower , the Seine cruise , and also Arc de Triomphe . If you decide to see the show at the famous Moulin Rouge , you will need to reserve that well in advance too!

TIP: If you find it all too overwhelming to plan a good Paris 1-day itinerary on your own, take a look at this highly-rated day tour . It takes you to many of the best spots in Paris in a day and you don’t have to worry about tickets or timing and how to make it all fit together. It’s a great option if you are short on time and want to make the most of it without having to stress about anything.

This tour has a somewhat similar itinerary as the one described below and ends at the Eiffel Tower. So you could easily visit the places that we recommend seeing in the evening after doing this tour as well.

And now, let’s take a look at what your day in Paris could look like – see below!

1-Day Paris Itinerary – Overview

Here is an overview of our recommended Paris itinerary for one day. Further below, you’ll find all the details about each place we recommend visiting.

As you can see, this is a very full itinerary that starts very early in the morning and ends late at night. We did our best to create a very complete itinerary that shows you as much as possible in a day.

If you feel like this is way too much for you, you can easily adjust this itinerary to suit your interests. For example, skip the places/activities that are marked as optional. Not interested in spending 2 hours inside a museum? Just see the architecture of the Louvre from the outside. Not interested in the sightseeing river cruise? Head straight to the Eiffel Tower, etc.

But this gives you a good idea of what can be done in Paris in a day, which places are worth it the most on the first visit, and how to plan your time.

Here is our recommended Paris 1-day itinerary in a nutshell:

• 7-8.30 am: Montmartre & Sacre-Coeur Basilica (optional).
• 9-11 am: Île de la Cité ( Sainte-Chapelle , Notre Dame, early lunch).
• 12-2.30 pm: The Louvre or Musée d’Orsay .
• 2.30-3.30 pm:Jardins de Tuileries, Place de la Concorde, Pont Alexandre III (optional).
• Walk, taxi, or metro.
• 4 – 5.30 pm: Eiffel Tower *.
• 6-7 pm: Seine Cruise .
• 8-9 pm: Arc de Triomphe .
• Evening: Champs-Élysées and dinner.
• Metro or taxi to Moulin Rouge or back to your hotel.
• 11 pm: Moulin Rouge (optional).

* Good to know: If you opt to visit the Eiffel Tower summit (instead of just Levels 1 and 2), you’ll need at least 1 hour more, so skip something else and adjust the rest of your itinerary as needed.

Map & Getting Around

To give you a better idea of where everything is located and how to plan your time, we created a map indicating all the places mentioned in this article. See below!

If you want to make the most of your day in Paris, it’s best to cover all the biggest distances by metro. For smaller distances, you can walk or take a taxi/Uber.

How to use this map:  Use your computer mouse (or fingers) to zoom in or out. Click on the icons to get more information about each place. Click the arrow on the top left corner for the index. Click the star next to the map’s title to add it to your Google Maps account. To view the saved map on your smartphone or PC, open Google Maps, click the menu and go to ‘Your Places’/’Maps’. If you want to print the map or see it in a bigger window, click on ‘View larger map’ in the top right corner.

This is our recommended Paris itinerary for one day:

Montmartre & Sacre-Coeur Basilica (Optional)

7 – 8.30 am

If you want to make the utmost out of your day in Paris, start with a visit to Montmartre . This is one of the most charming neighborhoods in the city and you could easily spend a day here alone. But even if you just come for an hour, you can see the best parts!

Start by taking the metro from your hotel to Abbesses station. Check out the Wall of Love ( Le Mur des Je t’aime ), and then take the stairs or funicular to the Sacre-Coeur Basilica . The church is usually open from 6.30 am so you can even visit inside (it’s free).

Enjoy the stunning city views from the stairs in front of the church, then turn right, and walk to Place du Tertre . This charming square is the heart of the Montmartre.

During the day, it’s very lively, full of local artists and tourists. In the morning, you will likely find it very quiet, so the atmosphere won’t be the same, but it’s worth visiting either way. You will also find many cafes and restaurants here. Many of them are open from early morning, so this could be a nice place for a coffee or breakfast.

Depending on how much time you have, you could explore a bit more of the neighborhood. For more tips on what to see, take a look at our detailed guide to this neighborhood via the link below.

LEARN MORE: Best Things to Do in Montmartre

Next, take a metro to the Cité station in the center or a taxi/Uber straight to your next destination – Sainte-Chapelle.

Good to know: We indicate this as optional because we realize that not everybody will be able/want to start their day this early. Plus, Montmartre is quite out of the way from all the main attractions in the city center. But if you want to get the maximum out of your day in Paris and see different facets of the city, then definitely consider a short visit here.

Île de la Cité: Sainte Chapelle, Notre Dame

9 – 11 am

Île de la Cité is the heart of Paris. This little island on the Seine River is best known as home to the famous Notre Dame Cathedral, but there is so much more to see here!

With just a day in Paris, you will have to be selective, however. So we recommend just focusing on the two main landmarks – Notre Dame and Sainte Chapelle.

TIP: Book the earliest possible time slot for Sainte Chapelle and head there first ( reserve timed-entry tickets here asap – it’s extremely popular!). This Gothic masterpiece with 1113 stained glass windows will take your breath away! It’s the most impressive church to see in Paris, and I promise you, it will be one of the highlights of your day!

Then walk to Notre Dame to admire its impressive exterior. Keep in mind that the church is still closed for restoration after the devastating fire, so you cannot visit it inside. The opening is now foreseen for December 2024.

Early Lunch

Now it could be a good time to find something for lunch. There are many cafés on Île de la Cité, or you could just grab a crêpe (French pancake) on the go.

You could stop by the restaurant called Aux Vieux Paris d’Arcole (it’s quite famous for its Instagrammable exterior). But it looks more charming in the photos than in reality, and quite frankly, there are better price/quality places nearby.

Recently, we had a very good low-key lunch at the nearby café Sur le Pouce. But both of these cafes are a bit out of the way for this itinerary.

Anyway, you will find many other good places in this area too. There are a few nice crêperies on the way to the Louvre which would probably fit this itinerary the best. We indicated all these places on our map further below.

Louvre Museum OR Musée d’Orsay

12 – 2.30 pm.

Next, you could visit one of the most famous museums in Paris – either the Louvre or d’Orsay Museum .

The Louvre is somewhat closer by, about 15 minutes walk, and the d’Orsay Museum is on the opposite side of the river, about 30 minutes walk from Notre Dame.

If you go to the Louvre, you could also see the Hôtel de Ville (the City Hall of Paris) and Pont Neuf on your way there. This iconic bridge can also be seen on the way to the d’Orsay Museum. 

No matter which museum you choose, a walk to get there along the shores of the Seine is really nice. You will pass the famous green Parisian Bouquinistes kiosks selling old books, posters, and postcards. Often, you will also see street vendors selling roasted chestnuts (one of the traditional French foods you should try in Paris !)

Musee d’Orsay is located inside an old train station and the interior is stunning. It also has an incredible art collection. The must-see here is the Impressionist section with some of the best works by Monet, Renoir, Manet, and many others. You can also see some masterpieces by Vincent van Gogh.

At the Louvre , you can see the famous Mona Lisa, the Winged Victory of Samothrace, Venus de Milo, and countless other famous masterpieces. In addition, you will see the famous Louvre pyramids. 

Considering all this and its location, for this itinerary, I think I would recommend choosing the Louvre, especially if this is your first time in Paris. On the other hand, d’Orsay Museum is usually a bit less crowded. But both are among the most popular Paris attractions, so it will be very busy either way.

Important! If you want to visit any of the museums, count to spend about 2 hours inside (or you won’t have much time left for the other places). Also, you absolutely have to reserve timed-entry tickets in advance! Here you can book tickets for the Louvre and here – for d’Orsay Museum .

If you decide to visit the Louvre, below, you can find a link to our detailed guide with useful tips (such as which entrance to take in order to avoid the biggest crowds).

LEARN MORE: Tips for Visiting the Louvre Museum

Jardins de Tuileries, Place de la Concorde, Pont Alexandre III (Optional)

2.30 – 3.30 pm.

Located just next to the Louvre is the famous Tuileries Garden ( Jardins de Tuileries ), one of the most beautiful parks in Paris. You can also easily get here from d’Orsay Museum – just cross the bridge to the other side of the river.

If you are coming here from the Louvre, you will also pass Arc de Triomphe du Carrousel . This triumphal arch was built earlier, before the famous Arc de Triomphe de Etoile which you can see in the distance from here (and can visit in the evening – see further).

Next, you will pass Place de la Concorde , one of the biggest squares in Paris. In the center, you can see an ancient Egyptian Obelisk, and there is a really nice fountain here too.

Walking towards the river, you will arrive at Pont Alexandre III , the most decorative bridge in Paris.

Good to know: I indicate these places as optional since visiting them all adds quite a bit of walking to this itinerary (about 1.8 km (1.1 miles) – at least 20 minutes of walking time). You could also skip these places to save time, or just walk through the garden and then take a metro from Concorde station.

Next, make your way to the Eiffel Tower. A walk from the Alexandre III bridge is another 1.6 km (1 mile). The distances may not look big, but it all adds up throughout the day, also in terms of time… So you may want to take a taxi or a metro.

Eiffel Tower

4 – 5.30 pm.

No trip to Paris would be complete without visiting the Eiffel Tower ! You can just walk around admiring its impressive structure, but you’ll probably also want to go up and see the views from the top.

In that case, you really have to reserve timed-entry tickets in advance!!! And you have to choose which levels you’ll visit in advance when booking your ticket.

Good to know: Eiffel Tower has three levels that you can visit: Level 1, Level 2, and the Summit. Level 2 tickets include levels 1 and 2, and the Summit tickets include all levels. In addition, for the first part – up to level 2, you can choose between taking the elevator or the stairs. The summit can only be reached by a separate elevator from the second level.

While going all the way to the summit is a very unique experience, the city views are probably somewhat better from the second level. From the top, you can see much further, of course; it’s just a different perspective really.

Also, it takes much more time to visit the top since the queues for the elevator can be really long. Realistically, you need about 1.5 hours for levels 1 and 2, and 2.5 hours if you visit the summit.

So with just a day in Paris and limited time, visiting level 2 is probably a better option. But if standing at the summit of the Eiffel Tower is high on your bucket list, then definitely go for it! In that case, you’ll probably need to skip something else from this itinerary.

Good to know: You can book Eiffel Tower tickets on their website and also on sites like GetYourGuide or Tiqets . Depending on how long in advance you book, often, Summit tickets on the official site might not be available anymore, but you can still find them on these other sites, sometimes in combination with e.g. a Seine Cruise or other popular attractions. Tickets for the second level are easier to get, but also there, if you want to be able to choose the best time slot, try to book asap!

TIP: Alternatively, you could also opt for this Eiffel Summit + Seine Cruise ticket combo . Keep in mind that you’ll need to foresee extra time if you go to the summit.

Seine River Cruise

6 – 7 pm.

Next, take a scenic cruise on the Seine River . It’s a great way to see more of Paris and at the same time rest your legs a bit after all the walking and sightseeing. A river cruise is something that should be on any Paris bucket list, so don’t miss it!

There are many cruise options departing from various locations. For this itinerary, exactly as described here, you could take this sightseeing cruise . It starts near the Eiffel Tower and has regular departures throughout the day. The ticket is valid for any boat on the selected day (more info via the booking link above). Or, as said earlier, simply get this popular Eiffel Tower + Seine Cruise combination ticket .

TIP: If you feel like this itinerary is already full enough as it is and would like to call it a day after this, opt for a Seine Cruise with dinner !

If you are determined to make the most out of your day in Paris, next, make your way to Arc de Triomphe. You can walk there from the Eiffel Tower, take a metro, or get a taxi/Uber. If you walk, you can enjoy nice views of the Eiffel Tower from Trocadero Gardens on the other side of the river. If you are visiting in winter when it gets dark early, you might be lucky to catch a sunset and/or see how the Eiffel Tower sparkles in the dark. 

Good to know:  Eiffel Tower lits up a few minutes after sunset. In addition, the tower ‘sparkles’ for 5 minutes on the hour every hour, between dusk and 11 pm.

Arc de Triomphe

8 – 9 pm.

The Arc de Triomphe de l’Étoile is one of the most iconic landmarks of Paris and needs no introduction. You probably have seen it in countless movies, usually in a scene involving cars trying to navigate the 12-fork roundabout around the Arch.

Also here, you have two options. You can simply admire the Arch from the outside or you can go all the way to the rooftop to enjoy some amazing views of Paris. Inside, you will also find a small museum. And on the outside, you can see the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

The 360° views from the top of the Arch are amazing. It’s one of the most impressive viewpoints in Paris ! Just below, you can see the iconic Avenue des Champs-Élysées. The view of the Eiffel Tower is great too and in the distance, you can see the modern La Défense district, Montmartre and Sacre Coeur Basilica, and many other landmarks of Paris.

Good to know: Arc de Triomphe is extremely popular at sunset. The views can be magical indeed, but it’s also crazy busy… Depending on the season when you visit, it’s possible that you will be here around sunset, but with just a day in Paris, I wouldn’t time your visit just for that. You’ll have difficulties squeezing in all the top sights in a day already, so just come here when it suits your itinerary the best.

The views are really nice in the dark as well, and the Arch stays open until late (usually around 10.30 pm).

TIP: If you want to go up, we also highly recommend booking your tickets in advance . At the moment, they are not timed (so are valid at any time during the day of your choice), but purchasing them online saves you a long queue at the ticket desk. You’ll still have to queue at the security check, but that can’t be avoided anywhere.

Champs-Élysées & Dinner

9 – 10.30 pm.

End your day in Paris at the city’s most famous boulevard – Avenue des Champs-Élysées .

This street is a few miles long, but the nicest and the liveliest part is right at the Triumph Arch. Here you will find many famous fashion designer stores and this area also has tons of restaurants.

If you are visiting on a weekend or want to dine at a specific place at a specific time, be sure to reserve in advance. Otherwise, it should be possible to find something on the go. 

TIP: Restaurants on Champs-Élysées are very expensive and price/quality-wise not always the best. But in the side streets, you can often find much better value for your money. Despite the touristy location, we had a really good dinner at La Flamme, just 5 minutes walk from the Triumph Arch. I indicated it on our map below.

Alternatively, if you are heading to Moulin-Rouge, you can find some very good restaurants in that area (more local and much cheaper too).

Moulin Rouge (optional)

If you want to experience the very best of Paris in a day and think that you’ll still have some energy left, we highly recommend seeing a cabaret show at the iconic Moulin Rouge.

It’s a very professional show with fantastic artists, dazzling acts, colorful costumes, and great music. Furthermore, a traditional Parisian cabaret is something that you can only experience in Paris! It’s an experience you won’t quickly forget!

Good to know: You’ll need to take a taxi/Uber to get here. There are two shows here every evening – at around 9 pm and at 11 pm. The Moulin Rouge show tickets usually sell out at least a few weeks in advance, so you really have to book them asap ( see here for the availability and to book ).

They also have a dinner + show combo , but dinner starts at 7 pm already and these tickets usually sell out at least a month in advance.

TIP: If Moulin Rouge tickets are sold out, check if there is availability at other cabarets in Paris . While the Moulin Rouge is the most iconic and best known, many others – like Paradis Latin or Crazy Horse are just as good.

Where to Stay

Even if you only have just one day in Paris that probably means that you’ll spend at least 1 or 2 nights in the city. 

Since you will be sightseeing all day, the location of your accommodation doesn’t matter that much. Ideally, it’s close to a metro station so that you can easily get to wherever you start/end your sightseeing itinerary.

For this itinerary (if you visit everything), you could stay close to Montmartre/Moulin Rouge. That way, you are close to your hotel in the morning and in the evening too. And if you decide to go to Moulin Rouge in the evening, you could even quickly change clothes before the show.

Here are some highly-rated hotels in this part of Paris:

• €€€€€ Manolita Paris .
• €€€ Hôtel des Arts Montmartre (great value).
• €€ Hotel Darcet .

So, this is our recommended itinerary that brings you to all the must-see places in Paris in a day.

I hope that this gives you a better idea of what to expect, what to see, and how it could all fit together.

As you can see, it’s packed, so you may want to adjust it a bit to suit your interests, time, and budget.

Once again, you really have to book timed entry slots for all the main attractions . It’s not just a matter of wasting time at the ticket desk anymore. Without advance reservations, you can’t even expect to visit most places at all, especially in the high season.

Have a great trip!

READ ALSO: Know Before You Go: Paris Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors

More travel inspiration for Paris:

• Traditional French Food
• Best Museums in Paris
• Best Views in Paris
• Tips for Visiting the Louvre Museum
• Best Things to Do in Montmartre
• Paris Itinerary for 4 Days
• Paris in October

If you found this post useful, don’t forget to bookmark it and share it with your friends. Are you on Pinterest? Pin these images!

More 1-day itineraries for some of the nicest European cities:

• 1 Day in Amsterdam (Netherlands)
• 1 Day in Barcelona (Spain)
• 1 Day in Edinburgh (UK)
• 1 Day in Florence (Italy)
• 1 Day in Glasgow (UK)
• 1 Day in Lisbon (Portugal)
• 1 Day in London (UK)
• 1 Day in Madrid (Spain)
• 1 Day in Milan (Italy)
• 1 Day in Manchester (UK)
• 1 Day in Naples (Italy)
• 1 Day in Rome (Italy)
• 1 Day in Salzburg (Austria)
• 1 Day in Seville (Spain)
• 1 Day in Toledo (Spain)
• 1 Day in Venice (Italy)
• Read also our top tips for traveling to Europe (includes itinerary suggestions and so much more).

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Aimee Morland

Sunday 4th of February 2024

We will have 2 full days in Paris. I love your one day tour. My husband is interested in visiting Versailles but I know it is a whole hour away. Do you think it make sense to do your one day itinerary in Paris and then the other day to go to Versailles? Or should we skip Versailles and spread your one day itinerary into two days?

Thank you!!

Monday 5th of February 2024

@Jurga, Thank you! That is helpful. We will do Versailles on the second day. I just booked a combined Eiffel Tower and Siene River cruise from a link from your page. It says "get your guide" and "Full Suitcase" at the top. I want to make sure this is a legit website as it was more money and it doesnt give you a ticket but just a meeting place to pick up your ticket. My second question is in regards to the river cruise. I would like to book the time but I don't see how to do that. It just says use anytime after the Eiffel Tower visit. But will all the cruises be booked for the rest of the day? We only will be there for one day. Thank you for your help!

Hi Aimee, the Palace of Versailles is well worth a visit, but you can easily visit the Palace and see some of the gardens in about half a day. So you could 'spread' this itinerary over 1.5 days and then visit Versailles in the afternoon of day 2. You can also take a look at the first two days of our suggested 4-day Paris itinerary and see if it looks more doable for you. It's more relaxed on day 1 and includes Versailles on the second day. There are literally countless ways to plan any trip to Paris, so pick the places that interest you the most, see what makes sense location and timing-wise, and you can easily adjust this to plan your own dream trip. Hope this helps.

Thursday 10th of August 2023

i am going to Paris with my 3 kids. I think the most important tip is to plan the entry tickets well in advance. If you want to go to the TOP of the eiffel tower without spending an arm and a leg on fees for tourist agencies or without queuing the day itself, you should buy tickets EXACTLY 2 months before your visit and EXACTLY at midnight 12 pm. Five minutes later, the top-tickets will be sold out.

Friday 11th of August 2023

Yes, it is very important to plan ahead nowadays, Koen. I didn't know Eiffel Tower has gotten this crazy this summer. It was not nearly as difficult last fall, so it's likely just in the peak season and hopefully, it gets better again as the summer is over. But yes, if you travel in any major city in Europe and don't think to prebook all your tickets in advance, you won't be able to visit (m)any of the top sights... Btw, we have this and many other useful tips for visiting Paris in this article.

Tuesday 8th of August 2023

We just returned from Paris and followed this itinerary to the t. It was such a great day. Well thought out and we saw so much. We would have never been able to do all this without you! PS We bought the Paris City Card as you suggested and it was very easy. Moulin Rouge was sold out so we went to Crazy Horse 😊. Thanks, Tim & Tina

Wednesday 9th of August 2023

Thanks for sharing your experience, Tim. Glad to hear that you had such a wonderful time in Paris!

Wednesday 28th of June 2023

What a brilliant itinerary. Thank You! We followed it to the t and had the best time in Paris. Sadly, Moulin Rouge was sold out but we booked a dinner cruise which was amazing.

Saturday 1st of July 2023

Glad to hear that, Frances, and appreciate your feedback. Happy travels!

Michael Cicchi

Monday 17th of April 2023

I will make sure to try Sur La pouce and La Flamme restaurants. Musée d'Orsey is on my must do for next Paris visit.👍

@Jurga, Hello again, I was thinking that I could help you make some sponsorship $$ if I followed some of your suggestions.🙂

Oh, Michael, there are SO MANY restaurants in Paris! These are just a few that we chose on this particular trip. :) And yes, d'Orsay Museum is absolutely worth a visit next time you are in Paris!

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The Ultimate Paris Packing List

A crisp sweater and trench coat? Oui! Striped T-shirt and ballet flats? Bien sur! Parisian men and women rely heavily on these classics, and so should you when packing for the City of Light . Follow the cardinal rule of dressing like a French person—quality over quantity, less is more—and not only will you fit in, you'll also have extra room in your suitcase to bring home finds from Le Bon Marche in the Marais or the famous Parisian flea markets. Below you'll find our top tips on what to bring for Paris and what to wear there, including fail-safe outfits to take you from a café au lait and croissant to an evening boat ride on the River Seine to catch a prime view of the Eiffel Tower sparkling on the hour.

See recent posts by Rachel Klein

THE LUGGAGE

When it comes to packing, it’s all about the right bag for the right job. If you’ve been making do with a beat up old duffle or an ancient carry-on with a sticky wheel, you’ll be   amazed at how a new bag makes travel so effortless. Every smart traveler should have three key pieces of luggage: a weekender bag for quickie getaways, a carry-on suitcase for week-long trips, and a larger suitcase for longer stays or   travelers that overdo it on souvenirs. (Guilty!) For a weekender, we’re fans of the   Away Everywhere   bag. This little dynamo has separate pockets for your laptop, pens, reading materials, and phone, plus a waterproof umbrella compartment—genius when you visit a rainy destination. For a one-week trip, it’s hard to beat  Away’s Carry-On —it changed the suitcase game with an ejectable battery for phone charging, smooth spinner wheels, and a lifetime warranty. And for any trips lasting two weeks or longer, go for the   Travelpro Platinum Elite . There’s a reason flight crews swear by this luggage brand. This checked bag has gliding spinner wheels, a telescoped handle, and two-inches of zippered expansion.   Consider yourself packed.

THE PACKING GEAR

Every packing hurdle is made easier with this trio of travel gear. Got a hotel room or cruise ship cabin with little counter space? This hanging toiletry bag will give you elbow room at the sink plus provide dedicated pockets for all your creams, gels, and sprays. Hang it on the bathroom door or over the towel rack to keep everything upright, protected, and in place. If you have an issue with overpacking — who doesn’t? — then packing cubes are a game-changer. This four-piece set will keep all your things, from underpants to electronics, organized and condensed, saving you precious suitcase space. And rather than depend on the freebie toiletries at the hotel (that harsh hotel soap will zap all the moisture from your skin), bring your own tried-and-true toiletries in these TSA-approved squeeze bottles.

THE IN-FLIGHT ESSENTIALS 

Only travel amateurs get on a flight without bringing the essentials. A sleep mask not only blocks out cabin lights—it provides the privacy you need to get some Zs. The Trtl travel pillow is a travel editors’ favorite for keeping your neck and head comfortable as you nod off. And Comrad compression socks’ moisture-wicking technology keeps feet comfy and protects you from deep vein thrombosis. (Yikes!) Fly like a pro with these packing essentials.

PARIS OUTFIT INSPIRATION

Looking polished and pulled together no matter what is de rigueur . Parisians dress presentably—and often fashionably—to go to the supermarket, and you’ll want to follow suit. Look like you made an effort, whether you’re heading to Telescope cafe (near Palais Royal ) for an aeropress coffee or exploring the magical little rooms of Shakespeare and Company Bookstore . Locals choose well-fitting (often impeccably so), high-quality clothing, and avoid overly manufactured looks. Instead of over-accessorizing, Parisians tend to let one bold item make the statement, like a persimmon purse with an all-black outfit. Paris isn’t the place for matchy-matchy outfits. Mixing it up with an unexpected detail, like poppy-red pumps , a subtle jacquard print , or playful peekaboo hearts , is just more interesting for everyone.

French men and women are brilliant at layering—think cashmere and tailored pants under crisp blazers and overcoats. Also, they’re not shy to wear navy and black, a pairing that Americans tend to avoid for fear of “clashing.” Parisian men aren’t afraid to wear bold colors, and, more often than not, spend time cultivating a fully finished look. Extras such as a brimmed hat, scarf, and cufflinks are added to everyday wear for a trip to the boulangerie or out shopping rather than reserved exclusively for an evening out.

Women’s Outfits

Older woman paris day outfit, shop the look.

Ribbed Turtleneck

Black Trouser

Blanket Scarf

Younger Woman Paris Day Outfit

Eyeshadow Palette

Sweater Dress

Blending Brush

Canvas Tote

Loafer Flat

Older women’s paris night outfit.

Black Denim Jeggings

Eau de Parfum

Leather Crossbody Wallet

Suede Red Heel

Luxury dinner in paris younger woman night outfit.

Kiss Lash Couture Triple Push Up

Black Strappy Textured Glitter Bodycon Dress

Dose of Colora Matte Liquid Lipstick

Faux Suede Trench Coat

Vince Camuto Knee High Boot

Men’s outfits, men’s paris day outfit.

Corduroy Jacket

Black Backpack

Older Men’s Paris Day Outfit

Younger Man Paris Night Time

Water Repellant Down Vest

Black Chino Pant

Crewneck Sweatshirt

Older Men Paris Night Outfit

Cashmere Scarf

RFID Blocking Wallet

THE 3 PAIRS OF SHOES YOU’LL NEED FOR EXPLORING PARIS

That old line about not wearing sneakers in Europe if you don’t want to look like a tourist is outdated advice. Comfy footwear is completely in vogue, thanks to brands like Saint Laurent and Versace turning out luxe versions in their collections. Pack a pair that adds pizazz to a neutral outfit (think glittery or metallic sneakers) or a classic pair of Chucks or Vans . Ballet flats or smoking slippers are a must for ladies, and guys and gals alike will want to bring leather boots that can be dressed up or down.

Women’s Shoes

Men’s Shoes

What to Pack for Paris

Click items to view travel editor-approved options

Clothing cont'd

• Lightweight Raincoat

Shoes & Accessories

• Walking shoes

Accessories cont'd

• Fold-down tote
• Hair accessories
• Dental floss
• Conditioner

Toiletries cont.

• Moisturizer
• Contact lenses
• Contact lens solution
• Shaving cream
• Brush and comb
• Hair styling tools
• Tampons and pads
• Hand sanitizer
• Pain relievers
• Stain remover
• Portable charger
• Tablet or E-reader
• Device chargers
• Power adaptors
• Memory card
• Selfie stick

Other Essentials

• Medical insurance card
• Water bottle (empty)
• Travel blanket or wrap
• Travel pillow
• Laundry bag

Helpful Printouts

• Emergency contacts
• Boarding pass
• Hotel and car rental reservations
• Maps and directions
• Bank and credit card contact info
• Copies of passport and ID

WHAT NOT TO PACK FOR PARIS

Although Parisians have embraced athleisurewear to a degree, this isn’t New York or L.A.—you’ll look and feel out place if you spend the day in your Lulus. So unless you’re planning to work out, leave gym sneakers and attire at home (plus, some hotels now have loaner workout gear as an amenity). Pack toiletries you absolutely need, but then hit a French pharmacy to browse beautifully packaged products that aren’t available in the U.S. Keep your shoe wardrobe to three pairs, if possible, and unless you’re prepared to handle cobblestone streets in high heels, leave the stilettos at home.

THE *ONE THING* WTP EDITORS ALWAYS PACK FOR PARIS

In Paris, living out of a suitcase is no excuse for looking disheveled in crinkled, static-clingy, or less-than-fresh clothing. This on-the-go laundry kit from The Laundress is a godsend for travelers trying to fit in among impeccably pulled-together Parisians. The kit’s sprays, towelettes, and spot-treatment soap nix odors, static cling, wrinkles, and stains—even a big splash of Beaujolais you dropped on your slacks. —WTP Editors

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PARIS’ WEATHER AND SEASONS

Note: Below is a packing forecast, not a traditional forecast. A packing forecast focuses on how cold it’s likely to be in the early mornings and evenings based on historical data. We recommend using this together with a traditional forecast as you get closer to your departure date. This data comes from our friends at  Weather Underground .

• Plan for day temps between 30° F and 39° F
• Temps will drop near 24° F at night and into the early mornings
• Expect 0.03 inches of precipitation in January

What to Wear in Paris in January: January is typically ultra-gray, and while snow is rare, it does get bitterly cold. Plan on a puffer coat, boots, and a warm hat.

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• Plan for day temps between 34°F and 45° F
• Temps will drop near 28° F at night and into the early mornings
• Expect 0.03 inches of precipitation in February

What to Wear in Paris in February: February is as raw as January, and you’ll need warm outerwear, like a wool cocoon coat and rubber-soled boots.

• Plan for day temps between 30° F and 45° F
• Temps will drop near 23° F at night and into the early mornings
• Expect 0.08 inches of precipitation in March

What to Wear in Paris in March: March is damp and still fairly cold. In addition to a heavy pea coat and thick jeans, do as the Parisians do and wrap up in a big cozy scarf.

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• Plan for day temps between 42° F and 56° F
• Temps will drop near 36° F at night and into the early mornings
• Expect 0.04 inches of precipitation in April  

What to Wear in Paris in April: April in Paris means rain, though it does warm up quite a bit from March. Plan to wear lighter-weight wool clothes underneath a raincoat with a liner—and don’t forget an umbrella.

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• Plan for day temps between 48° F and 61° F
• Temps will drop near 37° F at night and into the early mornings
• Expect 0.06 inches of precipitation in May

What to Wear in Paris in May: By the end of May, Paris is in full bloom. It might be chilly at night in the beginning of the month, so you definitely want to bring a lightweight jacket (go for denim), but chances are you’ll be able to skip tights if you’re wearing a skirt.

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• Plan for day temps between 57° F and 66° F
• Temps will drop near 46° F at night and into the early mornings
• Expect 0.05 inches of precipitation in June

What to Wear in Paris in June: June is one of the loveliest months in Paris. It isn’t hot, and while most days are warm enough to go out without a jacket, you might want to bring one for evening.

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• Plan for day temps between 63° F and 73° F
• Temps will drop near 55° F at night and into the early mornings
• Expect 0.02 inches of precipitation in July

What to Wear in Paris in July: It’s full-on summer by July, so throw on a breezy dress and espadrilles, and don’t forget a hat and sunscreen.

• Plan for day temps between 60° F and 67° F
• Temps will drop near 45° F at night and into the early mornings
• Expect 0.04 inches of precipitation in August  

What to Wear in Paris in August: Paris sizzles in August. Lightweight cotton frocks, strappy sandals, and tanks are all you’ll need (though a cardigan or sweater in your bag for chilly museums and restaurants is a good idea).

• Plan for day temps between 50° F and 62° F
• Expect 0.02 inches of precipitation in September

What to Wear in Paris in September: September can be as hot as August, but it does start to cool off, so you’ll need a jacket during the day. Transition from summer clothes to pants and a long-sleeved shirt.

• Plan for day temps between 40° F and 57° F
• Temps will drop near 35°F at night and into the early mornings
• Expect 0.01 inches of precipitation in October

What to Wear in Paris in October: October can get downright chilly and a mid-weight coat, such as a leather jacket, is essential. Wear a fleecy sweatshirt or thin sweater underneath. If you’re wearing a skirt or dress, you’ll need tights.

• Plan for day temps between 34° F and 46° F
• Temps will drop near 26° F at night and into the early mornings
• Expect 0.06 inches of precipitation in November

What to Wear in Paris in November: Winter kicks off in November, requiring a warm coat and heavier wool sweaters. Women may even want to bring an extra pair of tights to wear under jeans.

• Plan for day temps between 31° F and 44° F
• Temps will drop near 27° F at night and into the early mornings
• Expect 0.04 inches of precipitation in December

What to Wear in Paris in December: Break out a long wool coat, boots, and your warmest winter clothes for holiday season in Paris. It doesn’t typically snow (and if it does, it usually melts by the next day), so it’s OK to leave the heavy-duty winter boots at home.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT PACKING FOR PARIS

What should i wear in paris for dinner.

It depends where you’re going. You might not want to wear jeans and a sweater to Le Jules Verne or Le Grand Vefour (err on the side of dressy there), but most bistros, brasseries, and cafes are totally casual. If you’re having Neapolitan pies and wine at Pizzeria Popolare , scallops and beef tartare at Vaganende Brasserie , or Japanese tapas and ramen at Ito Izakaya (and we recommend that you do), whatever you wore during the day will likely be fine for dinner. Getting dressed for an evening out in Paris can be as simple as switching shoes and handbags and adding lipstick for women.

Are leggings/jeans okay to wear in Paris?

Jeans, yes; leggings, not so much—unless you dress them up with, say, boots and a chic oversized sweater. It’s rare to see Parisian women walking around in yoga pants or leggings and sneakers like they just came from the gym (even if they have).

What do locals wear in Paris?

Women wear jeans a lot, but also favor casual skirts and dresses. Parisian men, however, definitely step it up in comparison to their American counterparts. You’ll see men in trousers, button-downs with cufflinks, blazers, scarves, and hats.

What do I wear in Paris if it rains?

A trench coat is ideal as an outer layer with a lightweight but warm sweater underneath. We also recommend a raincoat by Danish brand, Rains —their flattering styles for men and women are waterproof, breathable, and available in solid neutrals or pretty pastels.

I’m visiting Paris in the winter; what is the best stylish travel jacket to bundle up?

Go for a sporty look in a short puffer (we love the Petra Puffer by Mackage ) or a full parka with faux fur-lined hood (like Schott’s water-resistant down parka ). It can get very cold in Paris in the winter, but temperatures typically stay above freezing and it doesn’t snow that often, so you won’t need heavy-duty winter boots or an ankle-length down coat.

FIVE FOOLPROOF OUTFITS FOR YOUR TRIP TO PARIS

1. what to wear museum-hopping to the louvre, the musee d’orsay, or musee rodin.

Choose an outfit that’s easy to wear but polished, like a flowy skirt and blouse. (You don’t want to look like a slouch walking through gorgeous, grand buildings!) For footwear, sleek sneakers or shoes with sturdy soles are a smart pick, and don’t forget to throw a wrap or sweater in your bag.

Start with lightweight, stretchy jeans with a tailored cut. Add a classic crewneck tee (may we recommend in navy and white stripes?) and a printed bandana for a dash of Parisian flair.

2. What to wear on a night out in Paris, maybe swinging by the Moulin Rouge

Most bistros, cafes, and brasseries are casual enough for jeans, but for a night out that includes the theater or a cabaret, Parisians step it up. Go for something fun and colorful, like a sleeveless light turtleneck tucked into a rainbow striped midi skirt.

Parisian clubs and cabarets require a look that’s dressy, but never stuffy or overdone. Swap out traditional pleated slacks for a modern, slim-cut version that hits the ankle, and formal dress shirts for a whimsical button-down.

3. What to wear shopping in Paris, hitting Printemps or Galeries Lafayette Paris

It’s fine to hit the mall in lounge pants and a hoodie, but shopping in Paris is definitely a dressier affair. We aren’t talking a sheath dress and heels here, just something smart-casual, similar to an outfit you might wear to brunch, like white jeans and a chambray shirt.

For guys, fitted chinos with a hint of stretch and a bomber jacket is a no-fail look for a shopping outing in Paris. Classic canvas kicks and polarized shades keep things cool and comfy.

4. What to wear sightseeing in Paris, visiting Palais Garnier, the Arc de Triomphe, and the Eiffel Tower

Go for something sporty, or for something similar to what you might wear on a movie date, like jeans and a sweater coat with metallic sneakers.

Be comfortable, but look smart. As long as everything’s neat, even a hoodie and old-school sneakers will work.

5. What to wear to Disneyland Paris with the family

Parisians dress equally well at the opera as they do at an amusement park, so don’t skimp on style when you’re visiting Walt Disney’s Parisian outpost. (And if you’re traveling with kids, no worries. Everything here is machine washable when that Mickey sundae ends up in your lap!)

Take jeans-and-a-tee to the next level with a corduroy-lined, workwear-inspired jacket with zippered and interior pockets for smartphone-safekeeping on rides (or extra space to hold all the kids’ doodads and toys while they ride around!).

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The Ultimate Paris Packing List

Everything you’ll need for The City of Light.

Amy Louise Bailey is a freelance content creator and media specialist. Her work has been published in Vogue , Harper’s Bazaar , Elle , Condé Nast Traveler, Bloomberg Pursuits , and Robb Report .

In This Article

Packing Checklist for Paris

• T+L's Top Picks and Tips

Frequently Asked Questions

• Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Travel + Leisure / David Hattan

Paris conjures many images. There’s the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, and Notre Dame to name a few of its iconic landmarks. The city sparkles with world-class museums, restaurants, hotels, and elegant Belle Epoque architecture. Romantics around the world have long been enamored by its charm, and it’s inspired some of the most culturally significant artists in history. 

It’s also the reigning capital of fashion, producing revered designers, including Coco Chanel, who famously said that “beauty begins the moment you decide to be yourself.” That spirit of authenticity is evident on the streets, in the effortless je ne sais quoi that Parisians possess. You won’t find many women running around in neon stilettos at 9 a.m. carrying baguettes and peonies, Emily in Paris -style. Style in the French capital is more pared down and uniform, which is something to keep in mind when packing for a trip.

“To avoid looking like a tourist in Paris, the key is to dress like the French do in a classic, chic, and timeless style,” says Simudzai Kufandada, Chief Concierge for the legendary Ritz Paris. Think of a well-tailored capsule wardrobe in a neutral color palette – nothing too loud or overdone. But whatever you do, leave the athleisure behind – unlike other cities, it would look out of place here. “We still dress to go out,” explains Laure Pertusier, General Manager of the Saint James Club – a magnet for sophisticated local denizens.

Evening looks are necessary – the opera! The ballet! 118 Michelin-star restaurants to choose from! And, of course, you’ll need versatile outfits for exploring the city comfortably (think more stretch denim, less lycra). Another thing to note is that some hotel rooms and AirBnBs can be compact (not quite to Tokyo standards, but still on the smaller side), so it’s best to keep your suitcase size to a minimum. As for the etiquette? Cheval Blanc’s Assistant Front of House Director, Margaux Médeau, advises to “smile, walk fast, have fun, be chic, and dare . You’ll be Parisian.”

Ahead, see our curated recommendations on what to pack for your trip to The City of Light. 

Daywear for Women

• Best Jeans: L’AGENCE Margot jean at L’AGENCE 404
• Best Day Dress: Staud Mini Wells Dress in White at Staud
• Best Shirt: Uniqlo x Ines de la Fressange Sheer Cotton Relaxed Long Sleeve Shirt at Uniqlo
• Best Tee: The Modern Breton Tee at Everlane  
• Best Trench Coat: Zara Flowy Trench Coat at Zara
• Best Cardigan: Ribbed Wool and Cashmere Button Cardigan in Light Lagoon at Vince

Daywear for Men

• Best Pants: Slim Traveler Pant at Banana Republic  
• Best Tee: Arket Niko Cotton Jersey T-Shirt in White at Mr Porter 404
• Best Shirt: Linen Cotton Dress Shirt at Banana Republic 
• Best Sweater: Cashmere Crewneck Sweater at J.Crew
• Best Jacket: Organic Cotton Herringbone Utility Jacket at Everlane

Eveningwear for Women

• Best Dress: Significant Other Aida Midi Halter Dress at Moda Operandi
• Best Evening Jacket: Angelina Tweed Blazer (in black) at L’AGENCE 404
• Best Top: Fitted Mulberry Tube Top at & Other Stories
• Best Pants: Wanda Coated Jean in Noir at L’AGENCE 404
• Best Sleepwear: Silk Slip with Lace Detail at Intimissimi

Eveningwear for Men

• Best Shirt: Linen Long Sleeve Shirt in Optic White at Vince
• Best Pants: Bowery Slim-fit Dress Pant in Stretch Chino at J.Crew
• Best Blazer: Linen Cotton Canvas Blazer at Onia 404
• Best Sleepwear: Hanes Woven Plain Weave Pajama Set in Blue Solid at Amazon
• Best Versatile Women’s Day Shoes: Scarosso Sienna Black Bright Loafers at Scarosso
• Best Women’s Heels for Evening: The Mia Due 90mm at M.Gemi 
• Best Sneakers for Men and Women: The Forever Sneaker at Everlane
• Best Men’s Versatile Loafers: Scarosso Ludovico Moro Loafers at Scarosso
• Best Men’s Evening Shoes: The Filare at M. Gemi

Accessories

• Best Women’s Sunglasses: Toteme The Classics Square Frame Acetate Sunglasses at Toteme
• Best Men’s Sunglasses: Garrett Leight Kinney Sun in Butterscotch at Garrett Leight
• Best Men’s Belt: BOSS Italian Leather Belt with Branded Pin Buckle at Hugo Boss 410
• Best Women’s Belt: Classic Belt in Patent Leather at J.Crew
• Best Women’s Bag: JW Pei Debby Flap Crossbody at Amazon
• Best Jewelry: Move Uno Pink Gold Diamond Ring at Messika Paris
• Best Water Bottle: LARQ Bottle PureVis at Williams Sonoma
• Best Duffel: Deluxe Large Weekender at LeSportsac 404
• Best Checked Suitcase: The Medium Flex at Away
• Best Carry-on Suitcase: Tumi International Expandable 4-Wheeled Carry-On at Amazon

T+L's Top Picks and Tips

Best clothing.

One of the biggest dressing myths is perhaps the most obvious: “A true Parisian woman very rarely wears a beret,” explains Bastien Lalanne, Chief Concierge at the Bulgari Hotel (and, as you might imagine, witness to crowds of well-heeled locals). 

French style has an insouciant sophistication – classic and polished with an emphasis on tailoring. Despite being the epicenter of haute couture, nothing is too colorful or exaggerated. “Parisian fashion and culture exudes an effortlessly chic, laid back attitude,” says Moda Operandi’s Senior Ready-to-Wear Buyer, Tiernan Cowling. 

Laid back, yes, but as noted, athleisure is off limits (or code for “American tourist”). “We wear fewer sports outfits and caps on the street when we go out than in other cities,” explains Laure Pertusier. “We favor natural elegance and don’t go overboard with color or make-up.”

So, what does a typical outfit look like? “For a day of sightseeing in the city, I opt for a slouchy tailored pant, paired with an oversized vintage motorcycle jacket and white tee,” says Tiernan Cowling. For both men and women, it’s all about investing in high-quality classics that transcend fleeting trends.

Best Daywear for Women

L’agence high-rise skinny jeans.

Jeans are a staple in the wardrobe of every French woman, and generally, there are no rips, no frays, or no embellishments, just classic cuts that fit well, often styled with a black leather belt. Shopping for jeans can be a minefield, but L’Agence is always a reliable go-to, and these Margot jeans are perfect for travel, as they are made from a super stretch denim that holds its shape. The flattering style has a slight crop, a contoured waistband, and is available in 13 different colors. If you’re embarking on a day of sightseeing – say, hiking up Sacré-Coeur or wandering the grounds of Versailles - these will make the journey a lot more comfortable than regular rigid denim.

Best Day Dress

Staud mini wells dress.

Your days are bound to be varied – you may begin at Café de Flore, and then on to Musée de l'Orangerie before landing at a photogenic rooftop bar for an aperitif. With that in mind, you’ll need something that can adapt to a dynamic itinerary, like this feminine white dress from Staud. It fits firmly within the realm of timeless French style with an elegant square neck, a scoop back, and an A-line silhouette that hits above the knee. Although it has corset-style paneling through the midsection, the fabric is breathable and has some stretch. It’s also available in a midi-length and nine different shades, including a whimsical white with macaron-colored stripes .

Ines de la Fressange Sheer Cotton Relaxed Long Sleeve Shirt

Designed by a French model and muse, this classic shirt is a great piece to have in your arsenal. It has a relaxed cut, a sheer fabric, and a rounded hem with side splits. Cuff up the sleeves and wear it half undone with a fitted bodice or lace-trimmed camisole underneath. It will cost you less than a round of Kir Royales and is sure to be on high rotation this summer and beyond (and if you’re Riviera bound after Paris, it will double as a swimsuit coverup).

Everlane Breton Tee

You can always count on Everlane for timeless basics, like this long-sleeved marinière top. Unlike berets, French girls actually wear tees like this on a daily basis, tucked into jeans, perhaps with a pair of stylish loafers and tousled hair, a la Lou Doillon. We love how the stripes aren’t too exaggerated – it’s a classic dark navy with thin contrasting lines. And the cut is flattering on most figures with a dropped shoulder, relaxed fit, and a high boat neck, perfect for accessorizing with a simple gold chain necklace (something like this Como necklace from Soru would be perfect).

Best Trench

Zara flowy trench.

A good trench coat can pull any ensemble together, and this razor-thin option from Zara is no exception. It can be worn as either a flowy duster or done up with the tie belt defining the waist. It’s made from a silky and breathable lyocell fabric that is wrinkle-resistant, so it won’t look too disheveled after your journey across the Atlantic. The hem hits at the mid-calf and it has convenient pockets at the hip, plus a wide lapel collar. It’s available in three neutral colors: beige, khaki, and black.

Best Cardigan

Vince ribbed wool and cashmere button cardigan.

A fitted cashmere cardigan is just as French as Breton stripes, and this luxurious style from Vince is one of the most elegant and high-quality options on the market. The tailoring is refined, and the soft pastel blue shade looks even more striking in real life. It could be worn open with a fitted white tank or buttoned up over a nude-colored cami . Pack it for a day of exploring and if it gets too warm, it looks just as chic draped over the shoulders with the arms tied around the neck like a scarf.

Best Daywear for Men

Banana republic slim traveler pants.

As the name suggests, these pants were designed with travel in mind, made from a specially engineered Italian cotton that has enough stretch to move around in. They’re also breathable and are available in regular and tall sizing options and six different colors, ranging from jet black to khaki beige – all within the standard neutral colorscape of des Garcons .

Best Sweater

J.crew cotton piqué-stitch crewneck sweater.

J.Crew makes some of the best cashmere sweaters around, but they won’t break the bank. 

This classic crewneck is a solid staple you could pair with jeans and sneakers for a day of sightseeing. It has a slightly slim fit, a crewneck, and ribbed detailing at the cuffs and hemline. It’s available in XS to 2X and a range of bright colors, but we recommend the heather gray, charcoal, or one of the more neutral shades (for Paris, and anywhere).

Banana Republic Linen Cotton Dress Shirt

Every man could do with a sophisticated blue and white striped shirt in their wardrobe, and this linen iteration would be perfect for Paris in the spring. It doesn’t have any distracting pockets and is versatile enough to be dressed up or down, depending on what your itinerary involves. Cuff up the sleeves, add a bold silver watch, and pair them with some chinos and loafers and you’ll have a versatile look on hand.

Best T-shirt

Arket cotton jersey t-shirt.

This is the simplest of plain white tees – there’s no chest pocket or any unnecessary features, it’s a true classic that is ideal for layering under utility jackets and blazers. It’s made from a lightweight cotton jersey, using an open-ended yarn that provides a soft, yet structured feel. And at this price, you can’t go wrong.

Best Jacket

Everlane organic cotton herringbone utility jacket.

Everlane has just launched a capsule collection titled “Modern Utility” and it’s full of essentials that work perfectly for a trip to Paris. One piece that caught our eye is this boxy utility jacket with front patch pockets, cuffed sleeves, and a button front closure. It looks like a shirt blended with a blazer, which is perfect for smart-casual outings. This is an easy piece to pair with a white tee underneath, chinos, and classic sneakers.

Best Eveningwear for Women

Best evening dress, significant other midi halter dress.

This is a prime example of how real French women dress up: sexy but always sophisticated, stylish but never succumbing to fleeting trends. This classic midi-length dress has an elegant, twisted halter neck, a low V back, and a slinky silhouette that doesn’t cling (that said, adding shapewear underneath is advised – this Spanx bodysuit would do the trick). It’s made from a lightweight viscose blend and has an invisible zip fastening at the back. Can’t you just see Emily in Paris ’ Sylvie Grateau wearing it to a gala at the Palais Garnier, styled with sculptural earrings from Dinh Van? C’est chic .

Best Evening Jacket

L’agence tweed blazer.

This shimmering tweed blazer is an after-dark showstopper. The style is quintessentially Parisian, with a structured, ladylike silhouette, delicately textured tweed, and uniformed gold buttons lining the cuffs. In other words, it could pass for Chanel and is something that would live in your wardrobe forever. It has an open front with a fringe finish and is slim fitting through the arms, so if you’re planning on layering, size up. It’s the sort of item you don’t want to take off when you get inside – a hero piece to build an outfit around.

& Other Stories Silk Tube Top

Tube tops can be tricky to pull off, but this silk version from & Other Stories is the most elegant version we’ve seen in a long time. Made from a glossy silk, it has a flared A-line cut and a corset-style tie back that allows the fit to be adjusted. It’s strapless, so it’s a great piece to wear under a structured blazer or a form-fitting jacket; it could either be a layering piece or a stand-alone statement, depending on the look. Plus, if you opt to wear it while it’s still sunny outside, you won’t have any tan lines to worry about.

L’AGENCE Coated Jean

Forget leather pants, these glossy coated jeans are the way to go for travel (and any occasion, really). They have a subtle sheen that contrasts beautifully with cashmere and silk fabrics, and they fit like a glove, with enough stretch to move around in no matter where the night takes you. The shape is cropped with a slight flare, and they have a flattering contoured waistband that has a sculpting and lifting effect. Pair with a tailored blazer and heels and you’ll have yourself a look.

Best Sleepwear

Intimissi silk slip.

What could make a plush hotel bed even more luxurious? Equally plush sleepwear, like this silky slip from Italian intimates brand, Intimissimi. This is a piece you'd want to be photographed in while gazing out the window with coffee and a croissant in the morning (ideally with a view of the Eiffel Tower ). It’s made from 100 percent Italian silk and has adjustable straps and a fine lace trim along the neckline and the hem. It’s available in multiple colorways, but the icy French blue is our favorite (and the most fitting for Paris).

Best Eveningwear for Men

Vince linen long sleeve shirt.

Vince has a variety of high-quality, timeless staples for les hommes, but it’s their shirts that are renowned as some of the best on the market. And when you’re planning a night out in Paris, a refined, well-tailored shirt is exactly what you’ll need. This classic silhouette is free of any unnecessary details, with an elegant slim cut and a slight sheen. It’s made from a cooling linen fabric and is smart enough to wear on its own, paired with chinos and a leather belt on a hot summer night, or worn under a blazer for a more formal setting.

J.Crew Slim-fit Dress Pant

These lightweight dress chinos are a customer favorite for good reason. They have the structure of tailored suit trousers with enough stretch to move around in comfortably – ideal if you’re wearing them for packed days where you won’t have time to change before dinner. Another useful feature is the button flap waist that looks polished even without a belt – something to consider if suitcase space is limited.

Best Blazer

Onia linen cotton canvas blazer.

A navy blazer in Paris is about as standard as florals for spring, and this linen version hits all the right notes. It has an unstructured fit with notched lapels, shoulder pads, and contrasting mother of pearl buttons. The style isn’t overly formal, but it would be appropriate for any evening destination (besides establishments that require a black tie dress code): think charming bistros, wine bars, the theater, and more.

Hanes Woven Pajama Set

These affordable solid blue pajamas from Hanes are dapper and comfortable. They’re made from a non-irritating, soft cotton blend, and feature a button-down top and pull-on pants with a stretchy waistband. The hem isn’t too long either, hitting around the ankle, so you’re unlikely to trip over them if you get up during the night.

“The beauty and pace of the city lends itself to a leisurely day of walking,” says Cowling. “With hours spent exploring the many museums and art galleries to the beautiful gardens, it's imperative to wear comfortable shoes.” Margaux Medeaux agrees, noting that “you should definitely bring a comfortable pair of sneakers or ballerinas – your best ally to stride along the Parisian streets.”

Indeed, Paris requires a degree of practicality when it comes to footwear, but it’s a city of fantasy, and dressing up is all part of the fun. For footwear, it all comes down to high quality and smart design, and we’ve rounded up the best options that blend both. The common theme? Look to the Italians for the best blend of aesthetics and functionality.

Best Versatile Women’s Day Shoes

Scarosso loafers.

Jetsetters in the know rave about Scarosso’s handcrafted shoes. These look and feel like the crème de la crème of designer loafers (think Roger Vivier, Loro Piana, Tod’s, et al.), but are a fraction of the price. Made from a brushed calf leather, they are supremely comfortable and are fashionable yet timeless. They’re topped with tassels and have a flattering 2.5-centimeter heel and a rubber and leather sole that provides good grip. Another plus for travel? They come equipped with a packable shoe horn and shoe bags to protect from damage in transit.

Best Women’s Heels

M.gemi the mia due 90mm.

The key to wearing heels in Paris is to find a pair you can walk in with confidence, like these slingbacks from M.Gemi, with a flared heel for added stability. The elastic keeps the shoe firmly in place without rubbing, and they’re made from a luxuriously soft Italian Nappa leather. Other details include the round topline that has an elongating effect on the legs and the ladylike pointed toe. If a high heel seems too daunting, they’re also available in a lower-heeled version. And color-wise, opt for the ballet pink or the black (save the metallics for somewhere flashier, like Milan).

Best Sneakers for Men and Women

Everlane the forever sneaker.

Simple and comfortable sneakers will serve you well in Paris, and this popular style from Everlane has the comfort and durability of a sports shoe without screaming “athleisure.” They’re wearable, versatile, and available in basic black and white, without any distracting logos or color accents. Half-size options are available for both men and women, so you can ensure you’re getting a good fit – necessary if you’re going to be walking around in them all day.

Best Loafers for Men

Scarosso men's ludovico loafer.

Another sophisticated style from Italian brand Scarosso is the lightweight Ludovico Loafer, made from a dark brown calfskin leather. The rubber sole is flexible, grippy, and bouncy – i.e., ideal for both packing and walking around while you’re on the ground. They feature hand stitching on the sides of the vamp, and a low, elongating shape that is flattering on the ankle (and looks great with cuffed chinos). Plus, they’re so soft, you won’t need to break them in before wearing them.

Best Men’s Evening Shoes

M.gemi penny loafer.

Penny loafers have long been a gentleman’s go-to for formal occasions, and this elegant pair from M. Gemi is comfortable, stylish, and durable. They have a flexible sole, Grosgrain binding for blister-free wear, and a hand-burnished finish in a soft calf leather. Per most of the best shoes, these are handmade in Italy, and the artisan craftsmanship is evident.

Best Gear and Accessories

The main accessories you’ll need for Paris are items to complete your outfit – think sunglasses, a crossbody bag, and a good belt. And, as on any trip, remember to pack your sunscreen and any toiletries you may need while abroad.  One item the Paris Tourist Board recommends bringing is a reusable water bottle. “You will find many self-service drinking water fountains,” advised a representative.

Best Women’s Sunglasses

Toteme square-frame acetate sunglasses.

Aptly named “The Classics,” these polished black acetate sunglasses from Scandinavian brand Toteme are sure to outlive any seasonal trends. They have a square shape with rounded edges, 100 percent UV protection, and strong, fitted arms that help to keep them in place. And the logo is subtle – there are no bold gold accents on the sides or anything that could clash with your jewelry.

Best Men’s Sunglasses

Garrett leight round acetate sunglasses.

Some colored sunglasses can look like forced trends, but this muted butterscotch pair from Garrett Leight is sophisticated and flattering on most face shapes. The acetate frame is quite thin, so the color isn’t an overbearing feature, and the mineral glass lenses contain AR coating and UV protection. Although the arms are slim, you can turn your head without worrying about them falling off.

Best Women’s Belt

J.crew classic belt in patent leather.

An often overlooked but game-changing accessory is a classic black belt. It can elevate the most basic ensembles, say a white tee and jeans – to look a lot more polished and put together. This patent vegan leather belt from J.Crew is an excellent option, with gold hardware, invisible black stitching, and a medium width that goes with most pants (or dresses to accentuate the waist).

Best Men’s Belt

Boss leather belt.

Made from 100 percent Italian leather and available in black, brown, and dark brown, this Boss belt is a wardrobe staple you’re sure to get a lot of wear out of — whether you're packing for a business trip or a Parisian getaway. It has a minimal silver pin buckle that doesn’t distract from the rest of your outfit. It’s noted to size up for the best fit.

Best Handbag

Jw pei flap crossbody.

When traveling to any city, a crossbody bag with just enough space for the essentials is sure to make life easier. And there are, of course, a myriad of options from Paris’s most revered maisons (Dior, Celine, Saint Laurent, and more), but affordable bags are having a moment, and this vegan leather style is an excellent option if you want a designer look for under $100. Plus, Parisians aren’t big on flashy labels and loud embellishments, so an understated bag like this would fit right in. It will easily fit your phone, hand sanitizer, lip balms, and wallet.

Best Jewelry

Messika paris pink gold diamond ring.

Messika is one of the most innovative jewelry houses to emerge from Paris since Cartier, and this 18-carat gold and diamond ring has become a hot ticket item with les filles . The central diamond sways to movement in a delicate gold “cage” and it sits higher on the finger, just below nails. This is understated elegance at its best.

Best Water Bottle

Larq bottle purevis.

This is the world’s first self-cleaning water bottle with a built-in water purification system, designed to eliminate 99 percent of bio contaminants, including e-coli. You’re highly unlikely to get water poisoning from Paris, but it’ll give you extra peace of mind if you’re filling up at a fountain you’re on the fence about. Plus, it looks sleek and is available in insulated and non-insulated versions — making it easy to stay hydrated no matter where your travels take you.

Best Luggage

Having too much luggage can be cumbersome, so consider how much space you’ll need for the days that you’re there. If it’s a quick weekend jaunt across the Atlantic, you might even be able to manage with a carry-on suitcase and a duffel, but for longer trips, taking a larger, checked suitcase is advised. 

Before purchasing any luggage, be sure to check the allowance on the airline’s website – there are many carriers offering the NYC to Paris route nowadays (Air France, Emirates, United Airlines, American Airlines and more), and the dimensions for carry-on suitcases can vary. 

Best Checked Suitcase

Away the medium flex.

Modern travelers are familiar with Away’s innovative suitcases (you can even spot them in the hotel lobby of the latest White Lotus series), and the brand’s newest release is ideal for trips where you’re likely to be returning with more than what you left with – aka the shopping mecca that is Paris. The hardshell-style suitcase has a flex zipper expansion that allows for an extra 1.175 inches of space, plus, it has smart features like 360-degree spinner wheels, a TSA-combination lock, and interior compression.

Best Duffel

Lesportsac large weekender.

LeSportsac’s Weekenders are ideal for short trips or for stowing in the overhead bin on your flight. They’re made from a durable, ripstop recycled nylon, and have interior and exterior pockets so you can keep everything in order (and ensure your passports are tucked away safely). It has a top handle and a wide detachable crossbody strap.

Best Carry-on Suitcase

Tumi international expandable carry-on.

While this is an investment, Tumi suitcases are made to last, and this four-wheeled expandable carry-on looks slick and has smart features throughout, from the built-in USB port, to the lightweight, antimicrobial-treated shell for germ-conscious travelers. It has an expanded depth, so you can fit more inside, and the dimensions are the largest that are allowed on most international and domestic flights, so it's a great option whether you're packing for a trip to Vegas or Paris.

According to Bulgari’s Bastien Lalanne “flashy jewelry is generally not recommended when you travel, and in a big city like Paris we would advise visitors to stay discreet.”

Kerry Fee, an advisor with Travellustre, a Virtuoso Agency, says that travelers should avoid bringing too many clothes. “It sounds silly, being Paris and all, but overpacking and overdressing is a common mistake for many clients,” she says. “Don't go overboard, pack simply, and focus on staples, monochromatic colors and step up your accessories!” Even if you're packing for a long trip , you're better off taking the streamlined approach.

The Paris Tourist Office’s top tips? “Don’t come to Paris with too much luggage and don’t bring things that you can easily find. In “the shopping capital” you can always buy what you need (or want!) in one of the many stores. It will also be an opportunity to discover the historic department stores, local shops, famous boutiques, as well as the numerous creators’ and craftsmen’s workshops.”

“We would avoid moving around with a huge camera, city maps and souvenirs’ shop bags,” says Bastien Lalanne. And as for the actual outfits, less is more. “Contrary to what one might think after watching Emily in Paris, the baguette and the beret are not good accessories to choose if you want to look like a real Parisian. Instead, opt for a chic but relaxed look to fully experience the effervescent life Paris has to offer,” advises Cheval Blanc’s Margaux Médeau.

Think of a capsule wardrobe with high-quality, well-tailored staples: jeans, a fresh white tee, a tailored shirt, a blazer, a trench, practical shoes, and a secure crossbody bag. 

Yes, and according to Fee, “filling stations are located few throughout the city, but you can pop into any cafe and kindly ask to fill up (and ideally leave a small tip as appreciation or sit for a quick espresso).” She adds that the water in Paris is fine to drink. “I always encourage clients to avoid disposable plastic whenever possible and would recommend bringing a water bottle as you cruise the city.” 

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Travel + Leisure contributors are shopping, fashion, and lifestyle experts who draw on personal experience and market recommendations to curate the best products for shoppers. This article was written by Amy Louise Bailey who has a decade-plus career in the fashion and luxury lifestyle industry and has spent time in Paris. She interviewed the Paris Tourist Office along with concierges from the city’s leading hotels, including The Ritz Paris, The Bulgari Paris, Cheval Blanc Paris, and The Saint James Paris. She also gained insights from Travellustre, a Virtuoso Agency, and renowned online retailer Moda Operandi. The experts she consulted in order to compile the best Paris packing list included the following:

• Simudzai Kufandada 999 , Chief Concierge for the legendary Ritz Paris
• Laure Pertusier , General Manager of the Saint James Club
• Margaux Médeau , Cheval Blanc’s Assistant Front of House Director
• Bastien Lalanne 429 , Chief Concierge at the Bulgari Hotel
• Tiernan Cowling , Moda Operandi ’s Senior Ready-to-Wear Buyer
• Kerry Fee , an advisor with Travellustre, a Virtuoso Agency

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Related Articles

Paris Travel Tips: 50 Important Things To Know Before Going To Paris

Are you planning a trip to the French capital? This post will give you all the useful Paris travel tips to make your trip fun and much easier.

Oh, Paris! The thought of walking through its beautiful streets , visiting its famous landmarks one after the other, tasting all its delicious foods , and finally climbing the Eiffel Tower , a trip to Paris is a dream come true!

If you’re planning a trip to Paris, it must be extremely exciting knowing that you’ll be in one of the most beautiful cities in the world.

Disclaimer:  This post might contain affiliate links. This means we may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you) should you choose to sign up for a program or make a purchase using one of our links. It’s okay – We love all of the products we recommend anyway, and you will too! Also, that commission helps us keep this awesome free blog up to date! You can read our  full disclosure here  for more details!

However, as you prepare for your visit, whether you’re going to Paris for the first time or have been there countless times, there are a number of Paris travel tips that will help you have a fun, safe, and seamless trip.

As someone who lives in the city, I’ve experienced Paris countless times and have found myself in various circumstances that have given me the immense experience to share practical tips for visiting Paris.

So, before you go, make sure that you read these Paris travel tips.

Before You Go, Here’s How to Plan Your Visit To Paris: Practical Quick Tips

WHERE TO STAY Best Eiffel Tower Views:  Hôtel Le Walt  (9.0) Luxury stay:  Pullman Paris Tour Eiffel  (8.2) Mid-range stay:  Hôtel Eiffel  (8.7) Budget Stay:  People – Paris Bercy  (8.9) Apartment Rental:  Résidence Charles Floquet  (9.1)  

BEST GUIDED TOURS Louvre Museum guided tour : (4.5/5) Seine River Dinner Cruise : (4.7/5) Montmartre Walking Tour : (4.8/5) Le Marais Walking Food Tour : (4.5/5) Versailles Guided Tour : (4.8/5) Eiffel Tower Guided Tour : (4.4/5) 

• Considering travel insurance for your trip? World Nomads offers coverage for more than 150 adventure activities as well as emergency medical, lost luggage, trip cancellation, and more.
• Prepare your trip extensively with this Paris Travel guidebook .
• Don’t forget a universal travel adapter , a travel neck pouch , and comfortable walking shoes .
• Consider getting either the museum pass or the Paris city pass if you plan to visit many attractions. The city pass comes with free transportation and access to the hop-on-hop-off bus. You can read my Paris museum pass review to see if it’s right for you.
• Book this private transfer from CDG airport to Paris to avoid the hustle of figuring out how to get to Paris.

Paris Travel Tips: Things To Know Before Visiting Paris

Whether it’s choosing the right time to visit, tips on navigating public transportation, how to dress in Paris, tips to fully get the most when visiting attractions, or mistakes to avoid, here are the best Paris tips for travelers.

For easy navigation, I’ll be categorizing this article into; general travel tips for Paris, money tips for visiting Paris, transportation travel tips for Paris, safety tips for traveling to Paris, and food & restaurant tips for Paris travelers. Now, let’s dive in.

General travel tips for Paris

1. choose the time to visit paris that is best for you.

The first thing to consider when planning a trip to Paris is to choose the best time to visit that works for you. There is no one answer that fits all as we all have different things going on in our lives.

But if you keep other factors constant and base your decision on what’s happening in Paris, or the weather, here is a brief to help you decide.

Paris in Spring is one of the best times to visit Paris. The temperatures are warm, the flowers are blooming and there are not huge crowds yet.

On the other hand, Paris in summer has the most pleasant weather (if there is no heat wave), and the days are long to enjoy the city to the max, however, it sees the biggest crowds of tourists and airplane fares, attractions, and hotels are at their highest.

For an in-between, opt to visit Paris in the fall . The weather is chilly, the streets are covered in fall colors, the crowds are reduced, especially towards the beginning of winter, and the general cost of travel starts to fall.

If you don’t want to deal with huge crowds, you can opt to visit Paris in winter . During this time, the crowds disappear, (though they creep back in during the Christmas season ), and the cost of flights and accommodation is lower, but you’ll have to brave the cold temperatures and short days.

I hope the breakdown of the season helps you choose but if personally I had to choose, I would say towards the end of spring and the beginning of fall are the best times to visit Paris.

The temperatures are still pretty warm, the crowds are not that much and the cost is not that high too.

2. Don’t Skimp on Travel Insurance

One of the best tips for traveling to Paris is not to forego travel Insurance. In fact, before traveling anywhere, whether it’s Paris or not, make sure that you have travel insurance.

So many things can happen on the road! You could lose your valuable travel accessories, you may need expensive urgent care, and if you don’t have travel insurance, it will get expensive pretty quickly yet insurance could have covered everything if you had spent just a few bucks on it.

Though there are countless travel insurance companies out there, the one I trust and recommend is World Nomads Travel insurance . They operate in over 130 countries, so it’s easy to request a quote and the claim process is not a rat race.

However, if you’re a digital nomad or a long-term traveler, you can also check out Safety Wings Travel insurance as they offer great deals for long-term travelers.

3. Don’t visit only the famous landmarks

It’s obvious the first places you’ll have on your Paris travel bucket list are the famous attractions like the Louvre Museum, the Eiffel Tower, the Sacre Coeur, the Arc de Triomphe, the Orsay Museum, and others.

Instead of just visiting only those ones, venture into other non-touristy things to do in Paris and go off the beaten path. This way, you’ll be able to explore Paris beyond what is in the guidebooks .

Some of the hidden gems of Paris worth checking out include parks like Parc Manceau, the covered passages of Paris , Les Arènes de Lutèce, the windmills in Montmartre , Paris Sewer Museum, Paris pet cemetery, and many others.

4. Buy skip-the-line tickets in advance to avoid wasting time in queues

One of the most useful tips when visiting Paris is to buy skip-the-line entry tickets to attractions in advance.

Paris is one of the most visited cities in Europe , so you can expect long queues at its popular attractions. At places like the Louvre, Eiffel Tower, or even Arc de Triomphe, you can easily spend 2-3 hours just in lines to access them.

While this may not be a big issue if you have a long time in the city, but if you’re visiting Paris for a weekend or even 1 day , you’ll lose so much time in queues instead of visiting other attractions.

The best way to avoid this is by purchasing skip-the-line tickets online. Some of the skip-the-line tickets you can buy in advance for popular attractions include;

• This Eiffel Tower skip-the-line ticket to the summit
• The Louvre museum skip-the-line ticket with an audio guide
• The Orsay museum skip-the-line ticket
• This Arc de Triomphe skip-the-line ticket
• Versailles Palace skip-the-line entry ticket to the palace and gardens
• And many others.

You can also check out my complete list of skip-the-line entry tickets to popular landmarks all in one place.

Pro tip* Instead of buying each individual ticket, you can choose to buy this Paris pass that will give you access to over 80 attractions for free while also skipping the long lines. Alternatively, if you intend to visit a number of museums, you’re better off buying this Paris museum pass . You can get more details about the museum pass by reading my detailed Paris museum pass review here .

5. Choose your accommodation in the central districts of Paris

If you have a few days in Paris, the last thing you want to do is waste time on long commutes by staying outside Paris or even in arrondissements that are a bit far from everything.

Instead of staying in the 20th district which is a bit far from the major attractions, choose to stay in either the 7th, 8th, or even the 1st. The bigger the number, the further away it is from central Paris.

You can read my post about where to stay in Paris according to arrondissements to get a general idea of the best area to stay in while in Paris.

6. Book your Hotel/Apartment rental way in advance

Courtesy of Hotel Audran / Booking.com

While still on the topic of booking in advance, another useful Paris travel tip is to book your accommodation in advance, especially in the summer since they book out fast.

This may not happen at all hotels/apartments but the one that suits your particular needs may be booked out if you don’t book in advance.

To help you choose the perfect hotel, I’ve written numerous articles about accommodation. You can click on the links below to go to a particular accommodation post that suits your need.

• Best Hotels with Eiffel Tower views
• Coolest Airbnbs and Apartment rentals with Eiffel Tower views
• Best Paris Hotels with Swimming Pools
• Top Hotels in Montmartre
• Budget-friendly Apartment rentals in Paris
• Best Hotels Near the Louvre museum
• Luxury Apartment vacation rentals in Paris

Alternatively, you can book my expert-selected hotels below if going through the above articles seems like a lot of work.

This is the best hotel with a view of the Eiffel Tower, this is the hotel I recommend for a luxury stay, this one for mid-range travelers, and this one for budget travelers. If you prefer an apartment rental, you’ll love everything about this aparthotel .

7. Take advantage of free museums

If you’re traveling on a budget or just want to save money for something else, one of the best tips for traveling in Paris is to take advantage of free museums.

There are so many free museums in Paris that are worth visiting including; Petit Palais, Musée Carnavalet, Maison De Victor Hugo, Musée De La Vie Romantique, and many others.

The best part is that since most people flock to the famous Paris museums , these ones are usually less crowded, yet interesting to visit and above all free.

8. Don’t just stick to Paris! explore the nearby cities Too

Paris is incredibly beautiful — there is no denying that! However, instead of just visiting the city and leaving the country, you should also explore nearby cities and towns.

You can plan a weekend getaway from Paris or even a day trip to places like Strasbourg, Monet’s garden, Provins, Mont Saint Michel , Chantilly, or any of these cute cities near Paris .

This will help you escape the non-stop life of Paris for a while as you enjoy the beauty of other parts of France.

9. Don’t try to see everything in a short amount of time

It’s not uncommon to want to fit in as many activities as you can in a short amount of time.

But the truth is, it’s quite impossible to see everything in one visit and quite frankly, I’ve not seen everything in Paris myself. Sometimes I find myself discovering new gems while randomly walking.

Trying to see everything will just create travel burnout since you’ll be running from one attraction to another instead of trying to immerse yourself and fully enjoy the experience.

10. Try to dress like Parisians

When it comes to what to wear in Paris, strive to dress like the locals! And how do locals dress, you may ask?

Parisians like to keep things chic and they always look like they put thought into what they’re wearing without going overboard. Not the runway kind of thing, but they always look well put together.

It’s hard to find Parisians wearing sports clothes to walk on the streets (except if they’re actively working out), or even sweatpants.

You can check out my article on what not to wear in Paris to know exactly what to leave home if you want to look like a Parisian.

11. Pack the right clothes for Each season

Before leaving the subject of clothes, another Paris travel tip to note is to pack clothes for the right season.

I have a couple of articles to help you with this depending on the season you’re visiting.

For the months of March to May, here is what to wear in Paris in springtime , what to wear in Paris in the summer if you’re traveling between June to August, what to wear in Paris in the fall if you’re visiting between August to November, and finally what to wear in Paris in the winter if your trip falls between December to February.

With those articles, you’ll know exactly the right clothes to pack for each season!

12. Go to vantage points to take in the views of the city

Paris is beautiful when seen from below but it gets even more magical from above. As you explore the city, get some time to take in the stunning views of Paris from various vantage points.

Some of the places to get stunning views of Paris include the top of the Eiffel Tower, Sacre Coeur, Ard de Triomphe, Butte Chaumont, Montparnasse Tower, Galeries Lafayette, and more. You can also enjoy the views of the Iron lady from these Eiffel Tower view spots .

13. Learning a little French goes a long way

You may hear some people say that English is widely spoken in Paris but I am here to tell you that that’s not true.

In fact, it’s more surprising to find a person who speaks English than one who doesn’t. Of course, people in the tourism industry will speak English but don’t be surprised to go to a store and no one speaks English.

This goes to say that, as you plan to visit Paris, you can learn a few basic French words to help you get around. It doesn’t have to be much but it’s always nice to try.

Some of the French words you can learn include;

• Bonjour = Hello
• Au revoir = Goodbye
• s’il vous plaît = Please
• Merci = Thank you
• De rien = you’re welcome
• Pardon = Pardon me
• Monsieur = Sir
• Madame = miss
• Une carafe d’eau, s’il Vous plaît = tap water, please
• l’addition s’il Vous plaît = The check/bill, please
• A emporter s’il vous plaît = Take away, please
• Je ne parle pas Français, désolé = sorry, I don’t speak English
• Parlez-vous anglais? = Do you speak English?
• Ou est…., s’il vous plaît? = Where is…., please?

14. Paris is not just romance and glamour

Paris is no doubt one of the most romantic places in the world. In fact, one of its nicknames is the city of love .

Yes, there are so many romantic things to do in Paris and it’s probably the number one proposal destination for couples.

But as romantic and charming as it is, it’s not just romance! It has an ugly side to it. Yes, pickpockets will try to take your stuff, scammers will try to scam you, you’ll see a few homeless people and beggars on the stress, and you be welcomed by the smell of Piss in some metro stations.

I am telling you this so that when you come, you don’t get struck by the Paris Syndrome many tourists face, especially those from Japan.

15. Check the opening hours for attractions before you visit

Another one of my favorite Paris travel tips is to check the opening hours of attractions before you visit.

Don’t just assume that all places are open at the same time or stay closed on the same days! Also, opening hours can change due to the season, so be sure to confirm before you go.

16. Create an itinerary but be open to adjusting it

Since Paris has a lot of things to see and do, the best way to see a number of them is by creating a realistic itinerary.

However, try not to follow it religiously. Leave some time in between to do spontaneous activities.

If a visit to one place leads you to another that was not on your itinerary but you’re interested in seeing it, you can just adjust your itinerary because the best experiences come unplanned — at least in some cases.

17. Most Museums in Paris close on Monday, not Sunday

It’s easy to assume that museums would be closed on Sundays but not in Paris. Most big (actually even the small ones) close on Mondays.

In fact, some restaurants too and shops close on Monday instead of Sunday. This is to make sure that people who work Monday – Friday can access certain services on Sunday.

This in turn means that people who worked on Sunday close on Monday. So, don’t just assume, check if the museum is open before your visit.

18. Explore Paris on Foot

Paris is a city best explored on foot. Most of the city’s major landmarks are not far from each other and you discover much more when you walk instead of taking the metro all the time.

For example, you could easily walk from the Opera area to Montmartre without even realizing it. While you can take the metro to reach there, you can easily walk as there are so many hidden gems to uncover along the way.

In fact, you’ll find most travelers say they walked much more in Paris than in other major European cities. This is usually common for some tourists from the US where walking is not as much as in Europe.

19. Carry Comfortable Walking shoes to Paris

If you’re a regular reader of this blog, you know that this is one thing I say all the time. Paris’s streets are covered in cobblestones and it will be hard to walk in high heels.

And if you’re going to explore the city on foot as mentioned above, you’ll want to leave your stilettoes and wedges at home and opt for comfortable walking shoes like sneakers or boots.

20. Try exploring Paris on a bike

Another way to explore Paris is to try biking. Since the world p*ndemic, Paris has put more bike lanes in place to ensure that it becomes more bike-friendly.

It’s easy to rent a bike in Paris as there are many stations all over the city where you can rent a Velib bike from without even talking to anyone.

When you’re done biking, you don’t have to take it back to where you picked it from, but rather at any other bike station you find along the way.

You can go biking along the Seine (nothing more romantic than that), along Canal Saint-Martin, and more.

21. Never forget to say bonjour when you enter a shop

While this may not be the norm back in your country, in Paris, it’s considered rude to not say Bonjour when you enter a shop.

In fact, even when you’re leaving the shop, saying goodbye is considered good manners. You can say au revoir which means “goodbye” or bonne journée for “have a good day”.

22. Carry your student id

In Paris, students are usually offered a discounted rate at major attractions, so if you’re a student, carry your valid student ID to take advantage of the reduced rates.

23. Refrain from shopping at every shop you see

Paris is a shoppers’ haven and if you’re a shopaholic, you may want to pop into every store you see to buy something.

The truth is that most shops in Paris are appealing and it’s like every single one is calling your name.

If you can resist the temptations, window shopping can do the trick, otherwise, you might just spend all your money buying luxury French brands in Paris.

24. Do not speak too loud

Another way to avoid looking like a tourist (and avoid making yourself a target by scammers and pickpockets) is by not speaking too loud.

French people in general don’t speak loud in public and always give an eye to tourists who speak like they’re addressing the entire room. Just keep the voice lower, at least until you leave Paris.

25. Explore Some of the beautiful parks in Paris

Beyond the famous landmarks, Paris is endowed with beautiful parks and gardens worth exploring. These green patches offer an escape into nature to a rather bustling city.

Whether it’s taking a leisurely walk to enjoy the cherry blossoms (if you visit in spring) or wanting to experience a Parisian picnic , there are a number of parks to choose from.

Some of the best Parisian parks not to miss include; Jardin des Plantes, Luxembourg gardens, Butte Chaumont, Parc Monceau, Tuileries gardens, Trocadero gardens, and more.

26. Plan alternative activities to do in case it rains

Regardless of the time of the year you visit whether it’s summer or winter, it’s likely to rain in Paris. But a rainy day doesn’t mean that you should just stay in your hotel room doing nothing.

There is plenty of things to do in Paris on a rainy day that you can choose from so that you don’t waste a day of sightseeing.

Plan to do activities like visiting museums or exploring the covered passages of Paris on the day it rains.

27. Be prepared for the rain

In the same way, don’t just plan out activities for a rainy day but also plan outfits and accessories for such days.

Make sure that you carry a windproof travel umbrella like this and/or this lightweight waterproof rain jacket .

28. Wake up early at least once to catch a sunrise

Imagine the sun rising above the Eiffel tower! Magical, right? If you’re in Paris for a few days, one thing you shouldn’t miss out on is taking in the beauty of the city with the first lights of the day.

You can go to any of these Paris sunrise spots and I guarantee you that compromising your sleep early in the morning will be so worth it.

29. Or stay for the sunset

If you’re not a morning person or you just prefer sunsets, ending your day with a beautiful sunset in Paris will be a memorable one.

You can go to places like Montparnasse Tower, Sacre Coeur, or the Seine cruise to watch a magical sunset.

30. Beware That Most Things close on Sunday

Like most cities, you’ll find Paris calm and quiet on Sundays. Most shops, bakeries, and even some restaurants stay closed on Sunday.

Though you’ll be able to visit some museums since they close on Monday as mentioned above, you may need to plan how to spend your Sunday well in Paris.

Tips for Paris Travel: Food & Restaurants

31. take a food tour while in paris.

Another way to fully immerse yourself in French culture is by taking a food tour. You’ll be able to not only learn more about French food but also taste it. Below are the 3 food tours I recommend in Paris.

• Le Marais Walking Food Tour: This food-guided tour will take you through the vibrant neighborhood of Le Marais. You’ll taste some wine and cheese, some pastries, and any other French delicacies that may be in during that season.
• Montmartre Cheese, Wine, and Pastry Tour: If you’d rather discover the neighborhood of Montmartre, then this is the best food tour for you. Just like the above, you’ll taste some cheese, wine, pastries, and Charcuterie. The tour is fun and informative and the guides are very friendly.
• Saint-Germain-des-Prés Pastry and Chocolate Walking Tour: If you have a sweet tooth, then this guided pastry tour is what I recommend. You’ll taste different types of chocolates, bread, and other French pastries during your tour while admiring all the beautiful bakeries in the Saint-Germain-des-Prés neighborhood.

32. Try as much French food as you can

One of the best ways to immerse yourself in the culture of the place you’re visiting is to try their local food and Paris is no different.

French cuisine is one of the best cuisines in the world and it would be a huge mistake not to try as much as you can.

Some of the French foods you can try include; Raclette (if you visit in the colder months), Crêpes, Croque Monsieur & Croque Madame, or Jambon-Beurre but don’t be afraid to try traditional French foods too like Escagorts, Frog Legs, or Couilles De Mouton (Mutton Testicles).

33. Don’t eat near famous attractions unless you have the budget for it

Unless you have the budget for it, I would refrain from eating at restaurants near popular places.

They’re usually expensive yet just a few minutes away you could get the same exact things (or even better) for less.

34. Make reservations at restaurants ahead of time

Just like at attractions, you’ll need to make reservations at restaurants, especially fancy ones like these restaurants with a view of the Eiffel Tower .

While you can just arrive at smaller cafes and bistros, some restaurants require making a reservation. You can’t just walk in and expect to be seated.

For some, you can make a reservation that very day while others require making a reservation up to 3 months in advance as they book out fast.

One example is Jules Verne , a restaurant at the Eiffel Tower. It’s almost impossible to find availability if you book 1 week or 2 in advance, even a month would be late. Try 2 or 3 months in advance to reserve a table.

So, before you go to Paris, make sure you make reservations if you plan to eat at such restaurants.

35. There is no need to tip At Parisian Restaurants (though appreciated)

While tipping is a big deal in most countries, it’s not the case in Paris. In Paris, the service fee is usually included in the overall price of the meal at restaurants, so don’t feel compelled to tip.

On the other hand, if the service you received was phenomenal and you want to tip your server, you can ask them to include an amount you want to tip to your bill but the best option is to leave a cash tip.

36. Drink tap water instead of buying bottled one

Water in Paris is safe to drink! Locals drink it and you too can. So, instead of wasting money on bottled water, you can just drink tap water from your hotel room.

In fact, even if you’re out exploring, you can still access tap water from the many water fountains (known as Wallace fountains) dotted around the city. Some even have sparkling water if that’s what you prefer.

These fountains are hard to miss as some are historically built but for ease of access, you can check this page for the exact locations in each arrondissement.

Just make sure to carry a reusable travel water bottle like this so that you refill it every time it runs dry.

This won’t only save you money but it’s also great for the environment as it reduces plastic usage.

37. Request for Tap Water at Restaurants too

While still on the topic of water, ask for tap water at restaurants. Most Parisian cafes and restaurants have made it a habit to always put a bottle of tap water on every table.

However, if the restaurant you go to doesn’t do it automatically, feel free to ask for tap water and it will be offered to you for free.

Travel tips for Paris Transporation

38. the metro is the best way to get around.

Paris’s metro system is very well connected and it’s easy to get around no matter where you are. It’s easy to use, you won’t be stuck in traffic, and it’s also the cheapest form of transportation in Paris.

The other options are buses, trams, taxis, or Uber. The downside with buses is getting stuck in traffic and the same applies to taxis/Uber except that the latter is a bit more expensive compared to buses or the metro and the train.

39. Renting A Car In Paris Is A Bad Idea

One of the things to know before traveling to Paris is that renting a car is a very bad idea.

As I mentioned above, public transportation in the city is very effective and cheap compared to hiring a car.

Renting a car will mean being stuck in traffic most time and you’ll have to deal with the crazy Parisian drivers, plus, it’s very expensive. So, save yourself from that pain but choosing not to hire a car. It’s really not needed!

40. Buy A Carnet Of Metro Tickets Instead Of One Every Time

If you plan to ride the metro a number of times (this is inevitable if you’re spending more than 3 days in the city), you’ll be better off buying a carnet of metro tickets.

A carnet is a bundle of 10 tickets and it’s cheaper than buying 10 individual tickets. It will also save you time instead of going to a ticket machine every time you need a new ticket.

41. Don’t Throw Away Your Metro/Train Ticket Just Yet

While still on the topic of tickets, one of the important Paris tips and tricks is to not trash your metro ticket before you fully exit the station at the end of your trip.

If the ticket control team finds you without a ticket, chances are high that you’ll be fined — which is 10 times more than the ticket price.

Plus, the ticket will help you exit the metro/train station. Without it, you may need to buy another one just to exit.

42. Beware of the metro working hours before going out to party late at night

Paris nightlife is fun and vibrant and you should enjoy it at least once. But as you plan to go out, be mindful of the metro working hours.

Is there a metro running on the line you take to go to your hotel (check if there are ongoing strikes)?

What time do they stop working on the day you want to go out? Check all this ahead and plan when to go back if you want to use the metro. Check the Ratp website to stay updated on the metro working hours.

43. You can also download the Bonjour RATP app

Besides just checking the website, you can download the Ratp app to stay updated on all the public transportation in Paris.

With the Bonjour RATP app , you’ll know when a metro line is closed, where to take the metro from, find the closest bus line, Velib stations, RER, the night bus, and more.

Think of it as a one-stop shop for all public transportation around Paris.

44. Avoid taking the metro during rush hours (if possible)

The metro can be something during rush hour, usually between 8 AM to 9 AM and then from  6 PM to 7:30 PM. They’re heavily packed and everyone seems to be in a rush for some reason.

As a tourist, it may not be the best moment to take the metro, especially if you can avoid it.

To give you a rough picture, you may not get where to seat, people will be pushing you (it will be person to person), and on some lines, you may not even be able to get onto the metro because it’s just too packed.

So, if you can avoid taking the metro during rush hours, do it.

45. Make city mapper your friend

One of the best apps to use in Paris is city mapper. I use it all the time for literally anything.

Besides the usual direction which I find more accurate than google maps sometimes, they give metro and train live updates.

You just type in where you want to go and it will show you the best metro/train to take, where to stop, which exist to take, and the best car on the metro/train to sit in.

Though google maps can do some of this, I find Citymapper much more accurate every time!

Money Tips for Traveling in Paris

46. you don’t have to spend a lot in paris.

Paris is ranked as one of the most expensive cities to visit! And while that is true, it doesn’t mean that people traveling on a budget can’t make it work at all.

There are so many free things to do in Paris that will save a couple of bucks, like visiting free museums as we talked about earlier.

You can also sign up for free walking tours and instead of eating out every day, make your own meals if you booked an apartment rental with a kitchen.

47. Cards a widely accepted but some places have a minimum amount they accept

One of the other Paris tourist tips you should know is that cards are widely accepted in most places. However, some places, usually small bars, bakeries, and some shops require a minimum amount to be able to pay by card.

It can be anywhere from a minimum spend of 3€ to 6€. For anything below that, you’d be required to pay by cash.

Actually, at times you’ll come across places that don’t accept cards at all. So, as you visit Paris, try to always carry some cash with you however little it may be.

48. Always carry a few coins for public toilets

Paris is one of those cities where you have to pay to access public toilets, so carry a few coins, (usually 1 Euro) for La Dame Pipi or the lady seated near the toilet collecting money.

However, in some public toilets, credit/debit cards work, so you can use the no-contact payment with ease.

Safety Travel Tips in Paris

49. look out for paris travel scams.

Unfortunately, scams are very rampant in Paris, especially in the areas near the Eiffel Tower and other crowded places.

As you explore, be vigilant and aware of your surroundings. Some of the scams to look out for include;

Someone coming to you with some written documents  and asking you to sign and support their cause.

Don’t fall for this because as soon as you sign, they’ll demand money aggressively and since you may want to get out of that uncomfortable situation pretty soon, you will be tempted to just give them money and leave.

If anyone (usually women) comes to you with stuff like this, just say No, thanks, and move on.

Another scam is the friendship bracelet scam . This one usually happens around Sacre Coeur with someone coming towards you in a friendly way with a bracelet. They’ll try to put it on your wrist and then force you to pay for you. Just move away from anyone trying to be friendly with a bracelet.

50. Be Aware Of Pickpockets

Unfortunately, this is one of the vices that seem to never go away in Paris. Pickpockets are usually in crowded places, in the metro and also the subway.

The only way to avoid them is to carry your bag in the front and be mindful of your surroundings all the time.

Pickpockets also usually target tourists as tourists are less opposed to following up on the crime, so try not to look like a tourist, especially in sketchy places.

Final Thoughts on the Best Paris Travel Tips

It’s easy to miss or overlook some things when going to the French capital, but with these tips for traveling to Paris, I hope you’ll have a great time and know exactly what and what not to do in Paris .

Whether it’s avoiding scams, deciding when to go, or even how to navigate the city, these travel tips for Paris will come in handy.

NEVER TRAVEL TO PARIS WITHOUT TRAVEL INSURANCE One of the biggest mistakes you’ll ever make when planning a trip to Paris is to forego Travel Insurance ! You might think that it’s expensive, but when you think of how much it will save you when you lose your valuables or even get sick, then you’ll know that it’s NOT that expensive! Unfortunately, things can and do go wrong when you travel. World Nomads offers coverage for more than 150 activities as well as emergency medical, lost luggage, trip cancellation, and more. If you’re considering travel insurance for your trip, check out World Nomads .

Check out these posts to help you plan your trip to Paris

• Fun things to do in Paris on a Rainy day
• Famous Paintings in Paris
• Where to Find the Best Macarons in Paris
• Famous Paintings at the Louvre Museum
• Best Covered Passages of Paris
• Most beautiful neighborhoods of Paris
• Fun free things to do in Paris
• Famous Churches to Visit in Paris
• Best Museums in Paris
• Tips for Visiting the Eiffel Tower
• How to spend One day In Paris

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Esther is the face and voice behind Dreams in Paris! She has always been obsessed with Paris even before she moved there. She has lived in Paris for a couple of years, and that obsession has not changed! That love for Paris, plus her passion for writing led to the birth of Dreams in Paris! She now shares all the practical tips and guides she’s picked along the way to help you plan a memorable trip to the city of love! You can learn more about her here !

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Step-by-Step Timeline for Planning a Trip to Paris (+ PDF Checklist)

Planning a trip to Paris, especially if it is your first visit to the City of Light, requires a lot of research and careful attention to detail. After all, it would be a huge disappointment to show up at the Louvre only to find that the museum is closed, or that you don’t have the timed-entry tickets you need. Likewise, no one wants to spend three hours waiting in line for the opportunity to ascend the Eiffel Tower. These trip mishaps, among others, can be avoided with a good Paris trip planner.

Sure you can hire a travel advisor to do it for you, but with a little guidance, we can point you in the right direction and give you the tools you need to plan an amazing trip to Paris! Luckily my past experience as a travel agent building itineraries for families and developing relationships with local suppliers put me in a good position to plan my own trip this spring. And regular readers know that I’m a bit obsessive when it comes to research and trip planning.

So I figured why not share my Paris trip planning process with you, along with an easy-to-follow timeline and handy downloadable Paris trip checklist [see below] . And when you are ready to start planning, also be sure to check out my complete, detailed 5 days in Paris itinerary .

Your Guide to Planning a Trip to Paris

Note: This post may contain affiliate links. If you click a link and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission. All opinions are my own.

When Should you Start Planning?

How early should you start planning a trip to Paris? If you are visiting Paris during the high season, I would recommend that you start planning at least six months in advance to find the cheapest airfare and the best hotel rates. This is especially true if you are visiting with a family and require a family room or suite and want to stay in a centrally located hotel or apartment.

Luckily Paris is a big enough city that it isn’t impossible to plan a last-minute trip, you just need to be a bit more flexible on your budget and expectations. Ideally, you will start planning a trip to Paris at least three months in advance before prime tickets to the Eiffel Tower or the Louvre have been sold out.

How Long Should you Spend in Paris?

If this is your first time in Paris, I would recommend a minimum of five days, including your arrival day. Ideally, you would spend a week and have more downtime, plus time for a day trip from Paris, but you may also want to include a visit to a neighboring city like London or Amsterdam to round out your stay, or some time in the South of France.

For our spring break trip , we spent six nights in Paris and continued on to Venice (this was part of a celebratory graduation trip for us.) Even with six nights, our days were pretty busy and we aren’t planning any day trips. Spending a week in Paris is entirely doable.

Step 1: Establish your Paris Vacation Budget

Before you even get too far into planning your Paris trip, you need to figure out your Paris vacation budget so that you don’t get sticker shock when you start looking at the cost of hotels or apartment rentals.

Keep in mind that hotel rooms in Paris aren’t large and families will need a large suite or two rooms. Many times, they are better off with an apartment rental. Unfortunately, there are not a lot of great Airbnb options in Paris due to crackdowns on that service, at least not in the city center.

I put together an entire guide to Paris apartment rentals with many different options, but you can start by looking at options on VRBO .

We have broken down what an average family trip to Paris costs in a separate post that provides an excellent guide for airfare, accommodations, activities, meals, and transportation. Use this as a guideline when determining your budget, based on your own travel style and party size.

I would strongly encourage you to invest in travel insurance for your trip to cover trip cancellation, trip interruption, baggage loss or theft, and medical emergencies. Trust me, I’ve already had to cancel one Paris trip!

Step 2: Research and Book Airfare

For international flights, I try to book my flight tickets about six months before my trip, especially if I’m trying to use airline points or miles as those seats disappear quickly. Once you have your vacation dates in mind, I would recommend setting an alert using an app like Hopper or signing up for membership for a flight fare sale alert service like Dollar Flight Club .

If you are willing to try a budget airline, the new Play Airlines is offering cheap flights to Paris from the United States through Reykjavik. Or, if you have champagne tastes, La Compagnie is a business class-only airline offering flights from Newark to Paris. Personally, I find either Delta or Air France the most reliable.

Step 3: Figure out Where to Stay in Paris

Paris is divided into 20 arrondissements or neighborhoods. The inner circle, or those closest to the center of the city’s main attractions, are the lower numbers. There is a lot of discussion of the best places to stay in Paris and the best fit for you may depend on your travel style and comfort walking and taking the Metro.

However, it is frequently recommended that first-time visitors stay in the 6th Arrondissement, or the Saint Germain des Pres neighborhood. This posh central Paris neighborhood on the Left Bank near the Latin Quarter is very popular, and can also get pretty pricey. If you are looking for a bargain, you can stay further out or try the 3rd or 4th Arrondissement on the Right Bank, the Le Marais neighborhood.

If you are looking for an apartment, you will find the most inventory in the 7th Arrondissement, near the Eiffel Tower. And if you are looking for luxury hotels and designer shopping, the classic 8th Arrondissement, home to the Champs-Élysées, is where to look, although this might feel too touristy for those looking for a more “authentic” neighborhood.

Whichever neighborhood you pick, it helps to book early, approximately three to six months in advance. Be sure to check out my guide for renting an apartment in Paris , but for now, here are a few recommended hotels:

• Hotel Espirit Saint Germain
• Relais Christine
• Citadines Apart’hotel Saint Germain des Pres
• Hotel Relais Saint-Germain

Step 4: Develop your Paris Itinerary

Now comes the heavy lifting! It helps if you start researching your trip a few months before by browsing Pinterest, checking out blogs, and watching YouTube videos. You can even pick up a guidebook for a good overview of what there is to do.

Talk to your travel companions and start whittling down a list of your must-dos! Keep in mind that there are so many things to do in Paris that you simply can’t fit it all into one trip. And the easiest path to a miserable trip is overscheduling.

You also don’t want your trip to be only museums in Paris. Give yourselves time to sit in a cafe and drink a bottle of wine, walk through the Tuileries garden, stroll along the Seine, enjoy a local market, and maybe participate in an activity like a macaron-making class, perfume making, or a painting workshop. You may even want to take a food tour to experience some of Paris’ amazing cuisine.

Consider whether or not you would like to add a day trip to your itinerary. If you have more than five days in Paris, you can easily add in a day trip to the Loire Valley , Disneyland Paris , Versailles , Normandy , or wine tasting in the Champagne region. See the Paris family tours worth booking.

Check museum opening times

The first thing to do is to look at the major tourist attractions you want to see and make a note of the opening time, closing time, and days they are open. In Paris, major museums are closed on certain days and you need to work your itinerary around that. While you are researching this information, make a note of how long you should expect to spend at each attraction to give yourselves enough time and don’t overcrowd your days.

Here are some examples of top attractions in Paris:

• Musee d’Orsay – closed on Mondays, open late on Thursdays
• Musée Rodin – closed on Mondays
• Palace of Versailles – closed on Mondays
• Louvre Museum – closed on Tuesdays, open late on Wednesdays
• Centre Pompidou – closed on Tuesdays
• Musée de l’Orangerie – closed on Tuesdays

Map out your days

One of my top tricks for planning our trips involves Google Maps. I will open a Google Map and search for each attraction that I want to visit. Then I will “star” or save each place so that when I zoom out and look at the map, I start to see a visualization of the different places that I want to go.

This allows me to group together certain attractions that I can do on the same day, and my itinerary starts to take shape. I also like to map out how long it takes to either walk from place to place or take public transportation / Uber.

Understanding the proximity between different attractions and when these attractions are open will help you begin to plan out your days.

Step 5: Book Tickets and Tours

As you are researching what places you want to see, you may also want to think about how you want to see them. Sure it is possible to explore all of Paris on your own, but will you get more out of it by taking a tour?

Some of the Paris tours that are worth spending for include:

• Louvre Tour – the Louvre is the largest museum and impossible to explore it all in one visit. Why not tour it with an art historian that can not only explain what you are looking at but also know how to navigate the massive art museum so that you see the highlights and avoid crowds as much as possible? We booked an evening tour of the Louvre with Take Walks to see Mona Lisa at the quietest time.
• Food Tour – a food tour is a great way to explore a neighborhood in a new city and experience the local cuisine in a way that you wouldn’t find on your own (plus get insider tips on restaurants). We booked a food tour of the Le Marais neighborhood with Devour Tours .
• Eiffel Tower – you can buy tickets on your own for the Eiffel Tower, but if they are either sold out or you want to learn more about the history behind the Tower, you may want to consider a guided tour. We booked a combo evening tour that included a river cruise with a glass of champagne and an Eiffel Tower tour with The Tour Guy . (you’ll receive 5% off when you book through this link)
• Ile de Citê – even though the Notre-Dame Catherdral is still under repair, there is much history to explore and learn on the Ile de Citê. We booked a walking tour with LivTours from the Pont Neuf that included skip-the-line access to Sainte Chapelle.

Paris Museum Pass

If you decide to go it on your own, there is still some planning to do. If you plan on visiting many museums, you will likely benefit from investing in a Paris Museum Pass (note: this is different than the Paris Pass.)

The Paris Museum Pass provides you with entrance to over 50 museums and monuments in the Paris area and allows you to skip the ticket lines. The Paris Museum Pass (PMP) is available in 2, 4, or 6-day options, and is valid for subsequent days after the first activation. You can purchase the PMP online and pay to have it shipped via DHL to your home, or you can wait until you arrive in Paris and pick it up at the airport or at other locations around town.

Louvre Tickets

Even if you have the Paris Museum Pass, you still need a timed-entry ticket to enter the Louvre, unless you are taking a tour. If you have a Paris Museum Pass, you can book an entrance time without having to pay for the ticket IF you have the serial number on your Pass. This means if you want to book before you arrive, you either have to pay to have your Pass shipped to your home OR you have to buy tickets to the Louvre.

If you do not have a Paris Museum Pass, you can purchase individual, timed-entry tickets to the Louvre online on the official website. Some other museums and attractions also require timed-entry tickets, such as the Museé de l’Orangerie and the Palais Garnier Opera House.

Catacombs Tickets

If you plan on visiting the Catacombs, it is also HIGHLY recommended that you purchase skip-the-line tickets in advance. It isn’t uncommon to find two to three-hour waits to enter the Catacombs during high season.

Eiffel Tower Tickets

Tickets to the Eiffel Tower are another thing that you need to do in advance. Tickets typically go on sale 60-90 days before the date of your visit. It isn’t always exact so you need to keep checking to see when ticket sales open up for your dates. Tickets do sell out, especially during prime season, so you need to do this in advance.

Decide ahead of time if you want to purchase tickets to the second platform only, or if you want to go all the way to the top. If tickets aren’t available, you can either buy them through a third-party provider or try to get same-day tickets when you are there. Same-day tickets are available while supplies last until three hours before the visit time for lift tickets, or last minute if you are willing to walk up the stairs and only want to go to the second floor.

Other Attractions

To save time waiting in long lines, you can also book a timed-entry ticket to go to the top of the Arc de Triomphe. And if you don’t have a Paris Museum Pass, you can purchase skip-the-line tickets for attractions like the Musee d’Orsay , Musée de l’Orangerie, and the Palais Garnier opera house if time is of the essence.

One more ticket you need to book in advance is for L’Atelier des Lumieres . They do not sell tickets at the door and you need a timed-entry ticket to get into this very cool digital art gallery.

Step 6: Arrange Transportation

Paris is known for its strikes, particularly transportation strikes. While you can certainly take the train or bus from the Charles de Gaulle airport into the center of Paris, the best way is to consider booking a car transfer in advance — just in case! Particularly if there is also a taxi strike because then finding an Uber is going to be a nightmare. Strikes are another good reason to stay in a central location so that you can walk if the Metro isn’t running and cabs or Ubers aren’t available. Both WelcomePickUps and Blacklane offer similar pricing in Paris.

If you are staying out in Montemarte or one of the further Arrondissements, you will be spending a lot of time on the Metro (when choosing a place to stay always check out the closest metro stations!) and you may want to consider purchasing a pass. Different options are available depending on when you arrive and how long you are staying. You can purchase the Navigo Decouverte pass at the airport or train stations, but make sure you bring along a passport-size photo or you’ll need to use one of the photo booths to take one.

If you will be taking a regional train to another city or country, make sure you reserve your tickets and seats in advance. European train routes typically open up for ticketing about 90 days prior to departure. I typically use Rail Europe to book train tickets for Europe as it allows you to see all the different train line options.

Step 7: Make Dining Reservations

Like when visiting any big city, you are going to be happier if you plan your dining, at least as much as possible, in advance. This is especially true if you hope to indulge in a meal at a Michelin-starred restaurant as the best restaurants can be tough to even get a reservation for! Being hangry is a recipe for disaster when it comes to bursting the chill vacation mood.

With a little advance planning that can be avoided. Just keep in mind that in France, lunch typically runs from 12-2 pm. Don’t be surprised to walk in at 1:30 and be turned away. Plan your day accordingly or settle for dining at a cafe.

Dinner hour typically begins around 7-7:30 pm through 10 or 11 pm. But again, this is to give time to enjoy the meal, not to arrive at 10:30. Reservations for dinner are highly recommended if you don’t want to spend extra time walking here and there looking for an available restaurant that meets your tastes. I would recommend booking fine dining restaurants at least a month in advance and you can book your other dining a couple of weeks before you depart.

Luckily many restaurants accept online reservations through their website or through The Fork (the French version of Open Table.) Don’t be surprised if you are required to leave a credit card with a hefty cancellation fee for fine dining establishments.

There are plenty of wonderful food options to choose from in Paris but if you need a little help guiding your selection, I typically turn to one of the following:

Step 8: Final preparations

We have made it to the final one to two weeks before your departure! Hooray, the trip is almost here but there is still so much to be done. Since you are traveling to Paris, I would recommend signing up for the U.S. State Department’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) . This lets the State Department know that you will be in France and they can get in touch with you via text or phone if there is an urgent event that impacts U.S. travelers (e.g. a terrorist attack, pandemic, strikes, etc.)

Of course these days, you also need to check to see what travel restrictions are in place by checking the Embassy website. As of February 12, 2022, fully vaccinated U.S. travelers no longer need to present a negative COVID test, but this is subject to change of course and from mid-March 2022 visitors don’t need to obtain a French Vaccine Pass to enter cultural sites, museums, theatres, restaurants, bars, nightclubs, or cafes. 

Money matters

Next, it is time to take care of money matters. I usually recommend going to your local bank to request Euro before you depart. Many times it takes 3-5 business days to get delivered. I typically withdraw 300-500 Euros and if I need more, I visit a local ATM. It pays to know in advance if your bank is affiliated with any French banks to avoid extra fees. Be sure to request denominations of 50 Euro and under otherwise you may have trouble getting change.

You should also contact your credit card company to let them know that you will be traveling overseas so they don’t put a block on your card.

Communication concerns

Before you depart, figure out how you are going to communicate from abroad. Many wireless companies now offer affordable international calling or data plans. For example, with Verizon, I pay $10 per day (only on days that I use it) for wireless data, and the data I use counts against the same limits I have at home. If you haven’t used this plan before, you do need to activate it before you leave. We usually keep one phone turned on when needed and otherwise use WiFi.

It is also a good time to download any apps that you might need while you are in Paris, as well as any movies or entertainment you want for your offline travels. A few apps I would recommend include:

• Uber – widely available in Paris
• Google Maps – download a Paris map for offline access
• Google Translate – very helpful when perusing menus or asking for help
• Airline app – for connection/gate information, mobile check-in and boarding passes, and entertainment options
• XE Currency – for currency conversion
• Travel phrase book – I use Fodor’s Travel Phrases, French version
• The Fork – for making and changing dining reservations on the fly
• Next Stop Paris from RATP – build itineraries, offline maps, tickets, and more
• Oui.Sncf – if you are traveling around France by train
• Paris Metro – navigate the Paris Metro
• Voice Map – purchase and download Paris audio walking tours from Join Us in France

Button up the details

Before you leave, print out multiple copies of your itinerary and store them in separate places. I also like to email copies to trusted friends and save a version in the Cloud (Dropbox, Google Drive, etc.) so that I can access it if my paper copy gets lost. Also, make sure to print out and organize any tickets or vouchers that are required for your entrances or tours, or save these to your phone’s mobile wallet.

While you are at it, take a picture of everyone’s Passport and make sure those are stored on your phone and in the secure Cloud. Print out a copy to carry with you so you don’t need to carry originals with you when out and about (leave those in the hotel safe.) Just remember that you will need to show ID with your vaccine pass to enter attractions and restaurants so be sure to keep your IDs on you for that.

Before you start packing, double-check that you have your seat assignments and your seats haven’t been reshuffled since booking. At that time you can make sure everyone’s passport info, Known Traveler Numbers, and frequent flier numbers are all added to your flight record so that check-in is simple and easy.

Make sure everything is prepared at home by arranging pet or house sitting, stopping your mail or deliveries, setting the thermostat to a low and steady temperature, and setting any timers for your lights or smart home devices. You may also want to alert your home security company that you will be away.

Download your Paris Trip Planning Checklist

Ready to get started? Download and print this ready-made checklist timeline for planning your trip to Paris.

Download your Paris Vacation Countdown Checklist Here

Now all you have left to do is pack, but that is the subject of another post! We wish you an amazing trip to Paris. Au revoir!

PIN THIS FOR LATER

Tamara Gruber is the Founder and Publisher of We3Travel. A former marketing executive and travel advisor, Tamara is an award-winning travel writer and recognized expert in family travel. Tamara is a member of SATW and the Adventure Travel Trade Association, and serves on the Board of the Family Travel Association. She is also the publisher of YourTimetoFly.com and the co-host of the Vacation Mavens travel podcast.

Find this useful? Share it!

Publish Date: November 25, 2022

4 thoughts on “Step-by-Step Timeline for Planning a Trip to Paris (+ PDF Checklist)”

Next time– I’m doing this itinerary when we head to Paris. Last one was a bit of a dud, the one before was fun, but kids were itty bitty.

Love this step by step guide! So helpful!

Having a successful trip definitively takes planning. The better you plan the better your chances are to get the best deals and experiences you want. Love this step by step guide with what to do, when!

Great step by step planning. I am definitely saving this for future reference as I expect to go to Europe in 2021

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Paris Packing List: 19 Things Not to Forget & 5 Things to Leave at Home

Not sure what to pack for your next trip to Paris? Here you will find a complete list of all the things that you must take with you and some others that you should absolutely leave at home.

1. Small backpack

Don’t take a big bag for your trip to Paris! Remember that at the entry of every monument or tourist place, you will have to open it, and sometimes even empty it.

Instead of that, choose a small backpack that’s comfortable and easy to carry, and where you can put everything you need for your journey in Paris: a bottle of water, your documents, your camera and an umbrella.

By doing so you won’t have a bulky bag to worry about all the journey, and you will save some time during the security checks.

Advice : Be careful with your backpack, especially on public transport, and beware of pickpockets.

Remember : prevention is better than cure!

2. Power bank

Don’t board the plane without one of these!

With a power bank, you can charge your phone (or another device) without a plug.

There are different sizes, shapes and powers; choose one according to your needs, but pay attention to the size.

Make sure it’s not too big because then it won’t fit in your pocket. And don’t forget the USB cable that comes with the power bank!

With this device, you can use your cellphone without worry, because you know that if you are running out of battery, you can always count on this device to save the day!

3. Universal adaptor

If you don’t live in Europe, and even if you live there (it might be useful sometimes), think about buying a universal adaptor before leaving your country.

There are different models; some of them are simpler than others, so choose one according to your needs.

You can find some adaptors designed only for European plugs and some others that you can use almost everywhere.

The former is simpler and cheaper (about €3), while the latter performs better and is more expensive (about €10), so make your choice.

4. Umbrella

Paris is wonderful, but its weather… well, it’s another story!

So even if you visit the city in summer , there might be some rain.

That’s why if you want to look nice in your pictures, and if you definitely don’t want to drench your beautiful clothes and walk all day soaked to the skin, think about packing an umbrella.

Please don’t bring a big one, but a small one that you can easily pack in your backpack.

If you don’t have an umbrella at home, you can find one in Paris, but don’t forget that the city is not only one of the most beautiful in Europe but also one of the most expensive, so it is not a good idea to spend €10 on an umbrella – buy a good crepe or a nice souvenir instead!

And don’t worry, even if it rains there’s always something to do in Paris !

5. Raincoat

You don’t like umbrellas?

Don’t worry!

We have a solution for you: a raincoat.

Comfortable, practical and cheap, you will be even more covered than with an umbrella, and the best part of it is that it is easy to carry.

So don’t worry and enjoy your journey, even in the rain!

And in the evening when it is cold, you can wear your raincoat to protect you from the chill of a gust of wind.

6. Sweater or jacket

In Paris, you always need to pay attention to the weather!

So even if it is summer and the weather forecast says that it is going to be 35 degrees in the afternoon, don’t forget those evenings might be colder, so if you want to enjoy the evenings in the city, don’t forget your sweater or jacket.

Choose one according to the season, something light for summer, something thicker for fall and spring, and if you’re visiting the city in winter, then you don’t need a sweater, but a big coat and everything that comes with it: scarf, gloves, hat, etc.

In Paris, winter is cold… Really cold!

7. Debit/Credit card

It is always a good idea to have some cash with you, but not too much!

That’s why it is useful to take your credit card with you.

In France, like in most European countries, you can pay by card almost everywhere.

A credit card can be very useful to pay for your accommodation or rent a car, but especially to book tickets online.

It doesn’t matter if it is a flight, a museum ticket or something else, you can always count on your credit card.

With it, you don’t need too much cash, so it is less problematic if you lose your wallet (or if it is stolen).

On the same topic : [Guide] Money in France (ATM, cards, cash…)

8. Student card

If you are a foreign student and you have a student card that certifies it, don’t leave it at home.

You can get some discounts on your entry tickets with your student card.

However, there are some conditions that may change according to the place, such as:

• Be a student under 25 years old
• Have a document that proves that you are a resident of the European Union

In some cases, you just need to show your student card in order to get a discount, without any age or nationality restriction.

So even if you aren’t completely sure that you can get a discount, just try. You never know!

9. Sport shoes or comfortable shoes

There are so many things to see in Paris, parks to visit, museums to walk through, etc., that it would be a pity to ruin your journey using those beautiful high heels that are absolutely unsuitable for a walk in Paris.

Leave them at home and bring your sneakers to discover the city of love.

The paths around the Eiffel Tower are not in excellent condition, especially when it rains, so please pay attention to where you step; you can find small stones that can hinder your way.

Visiting Montmartre can be exhausting, particularly because of the number of stairs that separate the bottom from the top, so in order to avoid unnecessary tiredness, just choose your shoes according to your plans for the day.

10. First-aid kit

No, we are not saying that you’re going to be sick during your trip, but if it happens, you will certainly need a first-aid kit. But, what to put inside?

Just the essentials:

• Pain and fever medication
• Antidiarrheal medication
• Antiemetics
• Antispasmodics
• Antiallergic pillows
• Softening and soothing lozenges
• Free alcohol antiseptic
• Anti-mosquito cream
• Anti-scald cream
• Painkilling medication

It might seem like a lot, but if you take all of that in small quantities, you won’t have any problem carrying it.

Of course, you can find all of these things in a Parisian pharmacy; but if you don’t speak French, it will be quite difficult to communicate.

And secondly, medicines could be more expensive in Paris than in your own city, and you may need a prescription for some of them.

So save money and buy everything you might need at home.

11. Sleep mask and earplugs

Even if you have chosen a 5-star hotel for your stay, you never know who will be next door.

So if you don’t want somebody to ruin your sleep, pack a sleep mask and a pair of earplugs.

That can make the difference between a pleasant night and a nightmare.

And if you are staying in a hostel , then the mask and the earplugs are a must!

These two things can be also really useful when you have to travel long distances by bus or train because while others are playing or talking, you can rest without any problem.

12. Reusable water bottle

In France, like in many other countries in Europe, drinks might be a little bit expensive, so if you want to save money, always take a reusable water bottle with you.

In the city, you will certainly find some places to fill it, especially in the public gardens and tourist places.

Don’t worry, you can find drinkable water almost everywhere in Paris, so be eco-friendly and reuse your bottle.

13. Important documents

Visiting Paris without identity documents is not a good idea.

In fact, at the entry of almost every monument, you will be asked to present a valid identity card, especially if you want to get a discount.

In addition, because of recent events, there are many security controls in the city, so in some cases, the police may ask you to show your documents.

However, leave your passport at the hotel as you wouldn’t like to lose it.

And last but not least, always take with you a copy of your insurance policy or write down all the necessary information to contact the providers, just in case of sickness or accident.

Remember : prevention is better than cure.

14. Fanny pack

A waist bag or fanny pack can be very useful when visiting the city.

It is the ideal place to put your documents, credit card and money.

It is small and comfortable, and it’s one of the best places to keep your valuables away from prying eyes.

There are different models, but we suggest you choose a small one that you can hide between your pants and your T-shirt so that nobody knows that you actually have one.

15. Copy of your passport or identity document

A copy of my passport?

For doing what exactly?

These are the two questions that tourists usually ask, and the answer is quite simple.

You may lose your bag or it can be stolen with all your valuables inside, so if that happens a copy of your passport may save your holiday.

So when visiting Paris , just take a copy of your passport with you and leave the original one at the hotel.

It is also a good idea to carry another identity document such as a student card, just in case.

If you do so, and unfortunately you lose your bag or you get it stolen, at least you have your passport, and you can ask for an official loss or theft statement, and continue your trip without any problem.

16. Headphones

Even if the Parisian transport system works quite well, journeys on a train can be long sometimes.

So in order to make your journey more comfortable and pleasant, pack your headphones.

That will help you to relax during your trip and could be very useful if you’re thinking about taking a bus or a train to your next destination.

Attention : headphones don’t mean an audio headset, only choose a pair of headphones that are functional and practical!

Somebody has just given you the name of a super place to visit, but you don’t have enough battery on your phone to note it down?

Don’t worry, if you always have a pen with you, there’s no problem!

We never know when we will need to sign or write something down, a telephone number for example or something else; so, just in case, always carry a pen in your backpack.

18. Paperback book

For those who love reading, a paperback book is a must.

If you are not a fan of music and you prefer to spend your time reading, we suggest you pack a paperback book.

Not a big one, just something easy to carry, and nice to read.

You can leave your copy of Don Quixote at home – you won’t need it, for sure!

Choose, for example, a crime novel or something else that you like.

There is just one condition: bulky books are forbidden!

And if you finish it before the end of your trip, don’t worry! In most hotels and hostels you can find a place to exchange books: you leave yours and you take another one. In that way, you only need to carry one book during the whole of your holiday.

For photography enthusiasts: professional or semi-professional camera, tripod, lenses, etc.

However, if you’re not a photography enthusiast and you’re just taking pictures with your smartphone.

That’s the end of our list of important things that you need absolutely to pack.

We didn’t talk about useful applications for your trip to Paris, but if you want more information about them, we invite you to read our article: 16 Free Apps to Download to Make Your Trip in Paris Easier .

⚠️ Now, the last part of our article is dedicated to those things that you must definitely leave at home – those bulky objects that you won’t use and that will take up too much space in your bag.

5 Things That Are Not Needed And to Leave at Home

France, the cradle of culinary traditions and renowned international gastronomy, has everything to satisfy even the pickiest of visitors.

So leave your candy and snacks at home and taste the specialties of the country.

We are totally sure that you can find something according to your preferences and budget.

From the Parisian sandwiches to the boeuf bourguignon, not to mention the Breton buckwheat pancakes, Paris offers you a great variety of products and dishes that won’t disappoint you.

For further information about the dishes that you need to try at least once, we suggest you read our article about Typical French Food .

2. Bulky books

Even if you love reading, please leave your copy of Romeo and Juliet at home!

In fact, cross out from your list of things to pack all the big bulky books that will take up too much space in your suitcase for your trip to Paris .

As we said before, take just one paperback book or try some e-books, so that you can enjoy reading without a problem.

3. Too many clothes

Even if Paris is the fashion capital, you don’t need to look like a top model during your holidays.

It’s nice to be chic, but please don’t go over the top.

No, you don’t need your four coats and your three pairs of high heel sandals.

Just be practical: choose clothes that are easy to match, comfortable, and not bulky – and leave all the rest at home.

If you think you don’t have enough clothes for your stay in the capital, don’t worry, most of the hotels can offer you a laundry service for a minimal extra cost, or you can find a laundromat almost everywhere in the city.

Don’t forget that there are many fashion boutiques in Paris, and you may succumb to a beautiful summer skirt or a wonderful winter coat, so you will need some space in your luggage to put your shopping in…

4. Useless valuables

Your wonderful gold earrings and your emerald ring can stay at home.

Your foreign ID, and your work card too.

It would be a pity to lose them during your holidays, so choose simple and cheap costume jewelry and only bring the documents that you need for your trip.

That’s an excellent way to avoid future headaches.

5. Hairdryer and hair straightener

Seriously, you don’t need them – your hair is wonderful the way it is!

But if you feel that they are completely necessary for your survival, we’re glad to inform you that you can find a hairdryer in almost every hotel that you visit, so there’s no point in carrying one with you.

The hair straightener is a little bit more complicated, but we are totally sure that you can survive without it for a couple of weeks.

Besides, Parisian weather is unpredictable, and your beautiful straightened hair may finish completely soaked.

Just be practical and pack only what you need.

I aim to share my tips and recommendations for the beautiful country of France. My goal is to help you plan your next adventure, whether it’s a weekend getaway or a once-in-a-lifetime trip. From finding the best hotels and restaurants, to discovering unique activities and sights, I’ve got you covered!

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Discover Paris

Plan Your Trip to the City of Light

Visit Paris and you'll discover a spectacular city packed with a dazzling array of famous attractions such as the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame, more museums than you can possibly visit in one trip, wonderful hotels and restaurants, and fascinating historic and modern neighborhoods to explore.

And that's just the beginning.  

Cruises along the tranquil Seine River and Canal Saint Martin, shopping destinations ranging from glitzy designer showrooms to street markets, non-stop summer concerts and festivals, tours and fireworks at the Palace of Versailles, and excursions to Disneyland Paris are just a few of the things you can experience here.

Whether you're planning your first Paris vacation or have traveled here dozens of times, you'll find plenty to explore and enjoy - and all the planning tips you need right here.

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Which Paris travel guides are best for new & return visitors?   Find out more

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Want to save money on your Paris hotel without sacrificing comfort or a convenient location? Find out more

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Christmas in Paris

To find all the top events and fun things to do in Paris each month, check out our Paris Event Calendars.

Favorite Paris Attractions

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How to see the Mona Lisa at the Louvre! Find out more

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• Why Visit Paris? - Need some inspiration as you plan your trip?  You'll find it here
• Best Places to Shop in Paris - Find out about the city's top shopping districts and their specialties, from luxury couture to a discount village to French cookware to the world's biggest flea market - & more!
• Fun Paris Museums - Want to visit a Paris museum but not really interested in art?  From the Catacombs (old bones) to street art to wine-tasting tours at medieval castles, there's something for everyone!
• Day Trips from Paris - Check out these fabulous day trips to fantastic places near Paris

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Want to Save on Your Paris Hotel?

Check our tips on how to find discounts, deals, and bargains for Paris hotels.  Whether you're looking for cheap accommodations or want to pay less for luxury, we'll show you how to save on hotels in Paris.  

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Happening in Paris

January in Paris

• The famous Paris winter sales, concerts, new museum exhibits

February in Paris

• Valentine's Day, Chinese New Year Parades

March in Paris

• Mardi Gras, Fountain Shows at Versailles, French Open

April in Paris

• Paris Marathon, Easter concerts, spring flowers

May in Paris

• Mother's Day, jazz festival, concerts

June in Paris

• Summer sales, Pride week, music fests, air show

July in Paris

• Bastille Day, Tour de France, beaches

August in Paris

• Free concerts & movies, Rock En Seine

September in Paris

• European Heritage Days, Fashion Week

October in Paris

• Wine festival, Halloween, Motor Show

November in Paris

• Armistice Day, Salon du Chocolat

December in Paris

• Christmas, New Year's Eve

Hanukkuh in Paris

• Menorah lightings 

• Holiday celebrations & decorations

Christmas Markets

• Gifts, holiday food, mulled wine, and Santa

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• Best Palace of Versailles Tours from Paris
• 101 Famous Graves in Pere Lachaise Cemetery
• Where to Find Paris's Best Covered Passages
• Best Paris Food Tours
• Best Hotels with Free Shuttles to Disneyland Paris

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Plan Your Paris Trip

• Why visit Paris?
• Best Paris guide books
• Find cheap flights to Paris
• Choose your Paris hotel  
• 7 Reasons why you need travel insurance
• Electric adapters and converters  
• Best ways to get Euros
• Check out 10 top Paris attractions
• How to skip the ticket lines
• Paris Museum Pass:  Should you get one?
• Which neighborhoods are best to stay in?
• What to do & see in each Paris district
• How to spend your first day in Paris

What to Wear in Paris: Packing List (2024 Update)

Europe Packing List , Packing Lists , Travel Packing Lists

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Wondering what to wear in Paris? Need inspiration for a Paris outfit? This packing list will help you plan for your dream trip. With a stylish Parisian capsule wardrobe, you won’t look out of place with these tips!

What to Pack for Paris

Table of contents.

We want you to have a stress-free travel experience, and the main goal of this article is to help you plan your packing choices in an efficient way so you won’t be unprepared for your trip and know how to dress in Paris.

You’ll find insight on general Parisian attire, in addition to visual examples of the type of clothing you might want to wear based on the weather and how to build a Paris wardrobe.

As a bonus, you will also learn some general travel tips including safety precautions such as using anti-theft products like this that  can help you feel less stressed during your travels.

For more ideas on what to wear in Paris, please read:

• Ten-Step Packing Guide for Paris
• What to Wear in Paris in Summer
• What to Wear in Paris in Winter
• Best Travel Dresses for Paris
• Paris Travel Essentials
• French Fashion Tips
• What Shoes to Pack for Paris
• Best Luggage for Paris
• What to Pack for Paris Olympics

Please use the visuals in this post as a guideline to help you create Paris outfits and choose corresponding items based on your own style and clothing preferences.

Travelon Anti-theft Signature 3 Compartment Crossbody Bag  | Calpak Kaya Laptop Backpack

What do people wear in Paris?

When considering how to dress in Paris, it is important to remember that the city style is tailored and chic, yet conservative with an edge. Parisians love neutral colors and adhere to the “No more than 3 colors” rule.

To avoid standing out as a tourist on the Parisian streets, avoid items like original UGG boots, clunky tennis shoes, flip flops, and baggy sweatpants. Paris clothes look presentable at all times; your goal is to maintain a comfortable look, while exuding femininity and edge.

These are some popular shoes for Paris !

As with most destinations, practical sense applies and choosing clothing based on the weather should always be a priority over fashion. 

In general, Paris everyday fashion is more dressy than American style. This DOES NOT mean business clothing. For Paris clothing styles, think dressy top (or the type of top you’d wear to work) plus nice jeans (dark colors are always a good choice). In general, relaxed but polished pants are seen everywhere, specifically wide leg pants or wide leg jeans , or opt for comfortable jeans to complete your Paris attire.

When choosing Paris outfits for girls and women, leave the beachwear on the beach because it doesn’t translate well to streetwear in the city. The same goes for gym wear; unless you’re actually headed to the gym, don’t dress in your gym attire as the locals will instantly recognize you as a tourist for the lack of effort that has been put into your wardrobe.

Eddie Bauer Girl On The Go Trench Coat (Plus)  |  Cole Haan Hooded Coat with Detatchable Faux Fur Trim

What should I wear in Paris?

The most important factors in planning and packing for Paris are the activities you’ll be doing on your trip AND the weather.

Always, always, always check the weather forecast before your trip. What to wear in Paris now could be different a week later. Nothing will ruin your trip faster than being unprepared with the wrong clothing for the weather. Paris summer fashion is very different than winter fashion.

Once you’ve researched the weather, you can focus on creating a capsule travel wardrobe , which should easily fit in a carryon suitcase with the help of  packing cubes  to compress your clothing.

Vionic Uptown Hybrid Penny Loafer  |  Sorel Joan Now Chelsea Boots

What are the best shoes for Paris?

One unexpected issue that many travelers discover once they get to Europe are the cobblestone streets.

While great to look at, stone streets aren’t always the easiest to walk on and can make for sore feet even if you don’t normally have discomfort. Depending on the city, these streets can also be hilly, slippery when wet, and uneven.

White sneakers and sneakers in general are being seen everywhere, as are chunkier heeled boots and chunky loafers. Something with a more sturdy, thicker heel would be good for the cobblestones.

  Veja Recife Logo Sneakers |  Vionic Copal Kirra Sandals

In addition, we all love to dress up, but avoid heels because they’ll leave you feeling uncomfortable. Opt for wedges if you must bring a heel. Do include one pair of shoes and one outfit that can be worn for dining out or experiencing the local nightlife.

As with your clothes, plan your shoes based on the weather and your planned activities. Choose no more than two to three pairs of shoe in neutral colors that can mix and match with all your clothing.

Make sure your sightseeing shoes are broken in properly. Opt for a pair that is comfortable and you can wear it for hours without discomfort.

Popular shoe options include (click each item below for suggested styles):

• Ankle Boots for spring and autumn
• Ballet Flats to dress up or for warm weather
• Waterproof Boots for rain and snow
• Comfortable Sightseeing shoes for year round visits
• Cute Comfortable Summer Sandals

Read this post about the how to choose the best walking shoes for Europe .

Below you’ll find helpful seasonal clothing tips and suggested packing lists that you can use as a guideline to prepare for a trip to Paris:

Longsleeve | Tee | Shirt | Cardigan | Pants |  Dress  | Trench Coat | Jeans | Bag | Scarf | Boots | Shoes

What to Wear in Paris in Spring (March, April, May)?

Spring in Paris is always unpredictable, so be prepared for anything and pack an item for all the elements. Always check the weather before you travel. What to wear in Paris in March may still reflect winter styles, as will what to wear in Paris  in April. Paris May weather is when it finally starts to warm up. 

If you’re wondering what to wear in Paris in May, bring a mixture of styles for warm and cool days.

Start by reading these general tips on packing for spring travel:

• How to Pack for Trips with Mixed Weather
• How to Layer a Summer Dress for Spring
• How to Pack for Europe in Spring
• Best Shoes for Traveling in Spring and Fall

Shop Sizes XXS-3X: J.Crew Perfect Fit Longsleeve Crewneck T-Shirt

Tops for Spring

Readers say that the weather in spring can from the 50 to 70 °F, so the key is to layer, layer, layer! Because in the morning it can be a bit chilly, but turn warm in the afternoon, and also, the occasional rain shower is possible without notice, too.

Opt for l ong sleeve tops or t-shirts because they’re great to mix and match with your bottoms and they can be layered with a sweater or cardigan. A reader fave is the J. Crew long sleeve tee . It’s versatile to dress up or down, and ideal for layering!

Shop Sizes XS-3X: Spanx Low Maintenance Silk Button Down

Since Paris is the city of classic tailoring, a functional white button shirt is chic, and also layer-able. This Spanx low maintenance silk shirt is made from Bombay and is able to be washed with no problem! 

Shop Sizes XXXS-3X: J.Crew Cashmere Patch-Pocket Cardigan Sweater

Add a cardigan sweater or a pullover sweater to layer up your outfits and remove them and tuck them in your day bag if you get too hot during a day of sightseeing. 

Read these tips on how to pack for transitional weather .

Shop Sizes 6-18: Kut from the Kloth Meg Fab Ab High Waist Ankle Wide Leg Jeans

Bottoms for Spring

Remember to choose your travel pants based on the sightseeing  you have planned. Overall, wide leg pants or jeans are seen on the streets of Paris, so choose a comfy pair that are breathable and durable. 

The KUT From the Kloth soft and stretchy and even has a bit of ab compression for sleek styling! Plus, they are super stylish.

Shop Sizes 00-26: Athleta Brooklyn Mid Rise Ankle Pants

If you want something a bit slimmer and chicer, still remember to invest in pants that are functional.

The Athleta Brooklyn ankle pants are an elevated take on a classic jogger, with a more tailored fit and sleek fabric. But these pants are perfect for any traveler: they’re lightweight and breathable!

Shop Sizes XS-XL: Quince Comfort Stretch Trench Coat

Jackets for Spring

While some days can be sunny and moderately warm, springtime in Paris still has rain showers. So, aim for a waterproof rain jacket or one that’s at least water resistant. In fact, the most popular type to wear in the city of romance is a trench coat .

Quince water resistant trench has classic styling with all the modern details, and can keep the rain away. Users say it’s super comfortable and the fabric stretches and doesn’t constrict, plus it looks so sleek! 

Shop Sizes XS-XL: Orvis Pack-And-Go Jacket

If you want a jacket that isn’t a trench, a lightweight, packable rain jacket is perfect for Paris spring weather. 

TFG readers love this jacket by Orvis. You can tighten it at the waist for a more fitted look or you can wear it more cinched and still be able to add plenty of layers underneath. This is great for when temperatures start to dip a little lower than expected and the material will dry fast for the next thing you have on your agenda. Even if you take a rain jacket, still pack a travel umbrella , as it’ll keep you extra dry.

Find out why ankle boots are perfect for Europe in Spring!

Shop Sizes 1X-4X: Caslon Tie Front Cotton Gauze Maxi Dress

Dresses for Spring

Maxi dresses are perfect to wear under a light jacket on warmer days. Opt for a dress in figure-flattering black. Parisians love neutral colors, especially wearing black, so try to produce a capsule wardrobe in black, to which you can add a touch of color with your accessories (your scarf, belts, or handbag.)

And if you want to feel a little more French, pack your prettiest undergarments into your wardrobe. It will leave you feeling glamorous!

Be prepared for anything with these stylish travel raincoats for women !

Blondo Dakota Waterproof Bootie

What shoes should I wear in Paris in spring?

Since showers are possible, wearing waterproof shoes is recommended but don’t buy ones made of rubber; instead choose leather ankle boots , which are the best shoe option for travel to Europe in spring. 

The Blondo Dakota waterproof ankle boots repel rain (and even splash from puddles), have a lot of support, and look chic with long skirts or dresses .

Sorel ONA 503 Everyday Low Shoes

Cute sneakers have been spotted on numerous women in Paris, so if you go for one, choose something chic but waterproof (in case of rain). The Sorel ONA waterproof sneakers are fashion forward, sleek looking, comfortable and will keep your feet dry while out and about.

Readers have also packed the Vessi waterproof sneakers and the On Cloud waterproof sneakers for spring in Paris, too!

While not recommended for all day sightseeing, ballet flats are also a good option should you want a dressier pair of shoes on your trip for warmer days or evenings. 

Paris Packing List for Spring

• Two short sleeve tops
• Two long sleeve tops
• Two additional tops
• One pair of blue jeans
• One pair of black ponte pants
• One additional bottom
• One rain or winter jacket
• One warm layer
• Thermals (if very cold)
• Three socks
• Ten underwear
• One versatile sleep set
• Waterproof ankle boots (sightseeing)
• Sneakers or Slip on sneakers (sightseeing)
• Ballet flat (dressing up)
• Wedges : (optional)

Blouse |  Shirt | Tank | Jacket | Pants | Skirt | Shorts | Dress | Crossbody | Hat | Sandals | Sneaker

What to Wear in Paris in Summer (June, July, August)?

Paris in the summertime can get very hot, but the weather is unpredictable and it can turn chilly. What to wear in Paris in June will definitely differ from July and August. The hottest time of day is mid to late afternoon. Check the weather and bring a light jacket if you need to.

Start by reading these general tips on packing for summer travel:

• Capsule Wardrobe for Summer
• Top Summer Dresses Perfect for Europe
• Lightweight Jackets for Easy Layers
• Best Walking Shoes for Europe’s Cobblestone Streets

Shop Sizes XS-XL: Quince 100% European Linen Tank

Tops for Summer

While a nice black tee is great for June, when it does get a bit hotter in July and August, fabrics like linen, cotton, and rayon will keep you cooled off and are breathable as temperatures rise. Summers in Europe have become hotter and hotter! 

This Quince European linen tank is soft, airy, and versatile enough to go with anything!

Shop Sizes XS-XL Loveappella Faux Wrap Top

To add a bit of Parisian style, choose more elevated, but breathable tops. This timeless Loveappella faux wrap top is light enough for day excursions and can be dressed up for evenings out.  You could also add merino wool t-shirts and tank tops as great basics.

Shop Anthropologie: Sizes 23-34 (Regular, Tall, & Petite) | 16W-26W Plus

Bottoms for Summer

The best travel pants for Paris ought to be lightweight and durable enough to handle sightseeing and more elegant outings at night. Wide leg pants are on trend, and readers adore the Anthropologie Colette wide leg pants feel just as lovely as they look, made from a dreamy linen blend that’s both elegant and comfortable. The cropped, wide leg design is modern and flattering, too.

Shop Sizes XXS-3X J.Crew Gwyneth Slip Skirt

Readers also highly suggest linen pants for Paris because they’re practical for the weather and effortlessly elevated. But also, add in maxi or mid skirts to your packing list. 

The J .Crew Gwyneth slip skirt is chic, but versatile enough to go with fashion sneakers or sandals .

Sizes XXS-XL: Carve Designs Macy Dress

Dresses or Jumpsuits for Summer

Bring out your dresses–they will be airy and elegant  in Paris during this season! Cotton, rayon, and linen are the most comfortable in the heat. Add a belt for a feminine, polished fit. If you prefer maxi dresses or midi dresses , those all work and are a matter of style and preference.

Take, the Carve Macy dress ! It’s breathable at 100% rayon, very light, yet has a cute tie belt to add more polish. 

Shop Sizes XS-XL: Quince 100% European Linen Button Front Dress

One reader swears by the Quince washable silk maxi dress as something she wore constantly in Paris. And because it’s easy to clean, it will also make it a breeze to travel with! 

If you don’t want to wear silk or rayon, linen dresses is truly the best choice for the heat, which is why TFGs also recommend the Quince Linen Button Front dress is one of the most popular picks.

Shop Sizes 0-16: Athleta Brooklyn Heights Wide Leg Jumpsuit

And, of course, don’t discount rompers or jumpsuits . They make instant outfits, and if you’re choosing the right fabrics, you won’t overheat. Stick to technical fabrics, cotton, or linen.

The newest fave is the Athleta Brooklyn wide leg jumpsuit , which can be dressed up with white sneakers or comfy walking sandals and is very breathable, moisture wicking, quick drying, and has UPF 50.  

Shop Sizes XXXS-3X: J.Crew New Classic Denim Jacket

Jackets for Summer

To ensure you are prepared for unpredictable weather, don’t forget a light summer jacket or compact umbrella. Save museums for rainy days to make the most out of your trip.

A jean jacket is a timeless option that goes with everything and is the perfect weight for summer nights. The J. Crew classic denim jacket is high quality and tailored to perfection, with a stylishly relaxed fit.  

Shop Sizes XXS-2X: Tommy Bahama Two Palms Linen Raw-Edge Jacket

Readers love linen blazers and linen jackets for their Parisian summer travels, as they offer coverage and a bit of warmth without feeling too hot. 

Tommy Bahama’s gorgeous linen jacket is super popular and features stylish raw edges, a comfy, lightweight feel, and a polished fit. 

Lastly, accessorize with sunglasses, a summer scarf, and jewelry–subtle yet stylish–to give you a touch of color. Choose minimalist jewelry (not too expensive or flashy) that reflects your own individuality and sense of style. Less is more.

Aetrex Jess Orthopedic Adjustable Quarter Strap Sandals

What shoes should I wear in Paris in summer?

Pack a pair of comfortable summer sandals or canvas sneakers for all-day sightseeing and a pair of open-toe heeled wedges for a fancy night out. Note that locals don’t appreciate flip-flops being worn anywhere but seaside.

In summer, many events are outside as many venues have gardens and al fresco spaces with evening cocktail parties and happy hours. These are the best times to wear your favorite cocktail dress and enjoy the summer breeze.

SOUL Naturalizer Turner Platform Slip On Fashion Sneaker

A Paris summer calls for slip on sneakers , because they’re a little less formal, but still polished enough to go with pocket dresses or long shorts . 

The SOUL Naturalizer Turner slip ons have custhioning, style, and a chic side zip that makes them easy to wear, plus they come in a variety of sizes, such as narrow, wide, and extra wide.

Ballet flats are also a good option should you want a dressier pair of shoes on your trip for warmer days or evenings.  

This is a selection of the best sandals for travel in summer – our top recommendation for a summer trip to Paris!

Paris Packing List for Summer

• Three short sleeve and/or sleeveless tops
• One ¾ sleeve top
• One additional top
• Two bottoms
• One maxi dress
• Two summer dresses
• One light rain jacket
• One light layer
• Comfortable sandals (sightseeing)

Tee  | Sweater 1 | Sweater 2 | Jacket |  Pants | Dress | Rain Jacket | Jeans | Scarf | Bag  | Loafer | Boot

What to Wear in Paris in Fall (September, October, November)?

In autumn, the weather is cool and Paris is beautiful. If you’re wondering what to wear in Paris in September, bring a few summer clothes for leftover summer weather. Autumn colors create a picturesque setting; however, as in spring, the seasons are unpredictable.

For what to wear in Paris in October, take advantage of grey skies and pack a vivid pink or red coat for a beautiful picture in front of the Eiffel Tower!

Start by reading these general tips on packing for autumn travel:

• How to Layer Clothes
• Use a Summer Dress to Pack Light in Fall

Shop Sizes XS-3X: Wool& Morgan V-Neck Tee

Tops for Fall 

Thought the weather starts to cool down in the fall in Paris, there are warm moments in September when you can still wear a tee. The key is to layer with a cardigan or a sweater, especially at night when the temperature can drop. A good balance of warmth and breathability is this Wool& Morgan v-neck t-shirt . It won’t retain odors and it will add a bit more heat to your core, while also being moisture wicking.

Shop Sizes XXS-XXXL: Everlane The Cashmere Classic Crew Sweater

You can pair your tees with a cute cashmere sweater , like this Classic Cashmere from Everlane. Put it over a tee, or wear it solo or just stow it in your backpack and take it out if the weather turns colder.  

Shop Sizes XS-3X: Spanx The Perfect Pant in Wide Leg

Bottoms for Fall

Fall in Paris means shorter days are coming, so it’s best to be prepared by going for a longer length pant, which will look fabulous with ankle boots or chunky sneakers.

The Spanx Perfect wide leg pants are made of a stretch ponte fabric and are pull on, so super easy to wear on flights or when out. If you want a more casual look, the Spanx AirEssentials wide leg pants are equally popular, or if you want to go more glam the Spanx faux leather leggings always stand out but are uber comfy. 

Shop Quince: Sizes  XS-XL | 1X-3X

Ponte pants are really great for fall in Paris because they can adapt to the weather and look polished or look fab dressed casually, too!

The Quince Ultra-Strech ponte straigh leg pants are recommended by readers as a perfect catch-all pair that can take you from a flight to the Louvre without fuss and you’ll arrive in a comfy style. Check out Quince’s whole category of ponte pants, as they have different types (flare to wide leg) to suit anyone’s personality.

Shop Sizes XS-3X: Wool& Fiona Fit and Flare

Dresses for Fall

Can you wear dresses in the fall in Paris? Of course! Stick to something that you can layer. Long sleeve dresse s can cover the arms, but short sleeve is also great for when there are warm spots to a sightseeing day. The Wool& Fiona dress is made of merino wool and can handle both cold or warm weather changes, and it’s so versatile to wear with boots or sneakers!  

To cover your legs, tights or stockings are ideal to wear underneath dresses. They provide some protection from the elements and modesty in the Parisian streets.

Shop Sizes S-XL: Fraiche by J Tie Waist Long Sleeve Jumpsuit

Pant jumpsuits are feminine and chic. Pair them with a travel blazer or a trench coat for an extra touch of sophistication. We love this Fraiche by J long sleeve jumpsuit for its versatility and soft texture. 

Pack one or two basic tees and long sleeve tops to create layers to mix and match your outfits. And finally, your scarves can add a pop of color to an otherwise neutral wardrobe.

Shop Sizes XS-L: Blanknyc Faux Leather Moto Jacket

Jackets for Fall

Parisians love wearing leather, so use the autumn season to make faux leather your base. It’s not only waterproof, but warm, so you will have added protection from the chill. Consider adding a well-fitted, not boxy faux leather jacket to your wardrobe. 

The BlankNYC faux leather jacket pictured here would look fab with comfortable jeans or pants. And you could top off the look with trendy combat boots (but make sure those boots are comfortable).

Shop Sizes XS-XL: Cole Haan Packable Hooded Rain Jacket

Once October hits, it can definitely rain in Paris then, so having a raincoat on hand is probably wise. This Cole Haan hooded packable rain jacket can be stored in your bag and brought out if it starts to drizzle. It literally packs into a pocket!

If you think you can’t pack light with leather clothing, check out my post on How to Pack for Europe’s Budget Airlines , where I squeezed in my leather and still flew carryon only!

Naturalizer Rena Knee High Riding Boot

What shoes should I wear in Paris in fall?

Readers on the ground report that long boots are alive and well in Paris. Knee high boots can add elegance to a dress or slim pants. 

The Naturalizer Rena tall boot is ideal for anyone who needs extra room in the calf area—with a 13” opening. It has a solid outsole for walking, good cushioning, and a breathable lining, so your feet and legs don’t feel stuffy. Always break in a pair of shoes before traveling, as walking on cobblestones can be hard on the feet. 

Sorel Joan of Arctic Wedge III Zip Boot

Waterproof ankle boots  are another fall must for Paris, so look for ones that have good cushioning, a sturdy heel, and won’t slip on surfaces. 

The very stylish S orel Arctic wedge boots have amazing traction and will stay dry if it pours. If you want something edgier, the Sorel Hi-line combat boots are a TFG fave and would look chic with a faux leather jacket.

Rothy’s The Loafer

Fall is a good time for comfortable loafers , and the Loafer from Rothy’s is the ultimate travel friendly loafer to add polish to your look while keeping your feet happy as you explore Paris. 

Readers can’t get enough of this shoe, lauding its lightweight and flexible fit, durability, and overall amazing comfort.

Paris Packing List for Fall

• Waterproof leather boots or long leather boots (sightseeing)
• Canvas or leather sneakers (sightseeing)
• Ballet flat  or loafers (dressing up)

Turtleneck  | Sweater 1 | Sweater 2 | Thermal Top | Coat | Jeans | Down Jacket | Thermal Pants | Gloves  |  Beanie |  Sneakers | Bootie

What to Wear in Paris in Winter (December, January, February)?

You can expect cold and wet weather during the winter, with occasional days of sun. The weather will definitely impact your choices for what to wear when traveling to Paris.  Layering is essential for colder climates, so pack long sleeve tops, a few sweaters, and even a t-shirt or two to wear underneath your heavy fitted jacket or warm coat.

Start by reading these general tips on packing for winter travel:

• Capsule Wardrobe for Winter
• How to Pack for Cold Weather
• How to Stay Warm in Cold Weather (without the bulk)
• The Best Travel Shoes for Winter

Shop Sizes XXS-XXL: Uniqlo Extra Fine Merino Ribbed Turtleneck Long-Sleeve Sweater

Tops for Winter 

It can snow in Paris between January and March, so don’t be unprepared! Turtleneck sweaters or tunics make the ideal warm accompaniment to your winter capsule. 

TFGs highly recommend the Uniqlo extra fine merino wool turtleneck for its economic cost, softness, and warmth. You can wear a packable down jacket over it and wear chic waterproof moto boots to top off your look. 

Shop Sizes XXS-3X: Nadaam Lightweight Cashmere V-Neck Sweater

Merino wool sweaters , cashmere sweaters , and alpaca sweaters are big favorites amongst readers to tackle the chilly winters of Paris.

A reader recommendation for Europe is the Naadam cashmere v-neck . It has a relaxed yet classic look, is uber warm, and will go with literally anything!

Shop Sizes 0-18: prAna Kara Jean

Bottoms for Winter

For winter in Paris, comfortable jeans are perfect, and when tucked into your boots to create the perfect winter look. The PrAna Kara jeans are soft and breathable and move with the body, so you never feel constricted. You could also opt for winter pants that have a more casual look.

Shop Sizes 00-16: J.Crew No. 2 Pencil Skirt in Italian Stretch Wool

Just because you’re visiting Paris in winter doesn’t mean you shouldn’t wear a skirt! A winter skirt is an elegant option that can work day or night, as long as it’s made of a warm material. 

You can’t go wrong with the J.Crew No. 2 Pencil Skirt , which is made of wool. A pencil is classically stylish and will look divine with brown long boots or mid length boots . Just remember to wear tights to stay extra warm. 

Shop Sizes XS-XL: Quince Mongolian Cashmere Turtleneck Sweater Dress

Dresses for Winter

In terms of winter dresses , choose something made of cashmere, polyester, merino wool, or alpaca.

The Quince Mongolian cashmere dress comes in numerous colors and will look fab with fleece lined leggings or merino wool leggings , and, of course, boots!

ibex Woolies Tech Long Sleeve Shirt | ibex Woolies Tech Layer Bottoms

Thermals for Winter

To make sure you stay warm, it’s wise to bring some thermal underwear . The Woolies Tech Long Sleeve Shirt not only works as an excellent base layer under midweights but it can be worn solo as a shirt. While the Woolies Tech Layer Bottoms are described as lightweight and work well under trousers or a dress, so not as heavy as typical tights.   

Terramar Silk Thermasilk Pointelle Scoop Shirt and Pointelle Pants

If you want more lightweight options, try silk thermal underwear . The ones from Terramar are made with 100% silk pointelle knit. Their anti-microbial comfort technology is a plus when you want to re-wear your clothing. The fabric offers optimal warmth but is ultra lightweight. Stay warm without the bulk!

Shop Sizes XS-XL: Steve Madden Women’s Long Chevron Maxi Puffer Coat

Jackets for Winter

While having a down parka is recommended for Paris’ winter months, you may want a non-down option . 

This Steve Madden Chevron long puffer coat is dripping with style, and users say its fleece lining and wind-resistant exterior make this beauty extra cozy. 

Shop Sizes XS-XXL: Eddie Bauer Microlight Traveler Down Parka

A down-filled option is considered easier to pack (if you’re not wearing your jacket on the flight), so if that’s what you’d prefer fo Paris, this Eddie Bauer Microlight Traveler parka fits the bill! It has 650 fill Responsible Down Standard (RDS), and is uber packable 

Don’t forget to add accessories. They not only add style to your outfit, but warmth! Opt for long, cashmere or silk scarves in the colors of your choice as well as a stylish hat and fingerless gloves. A pair of black leather gloves can look chic as well.

Shop Sizes XS-XL: Quince Italian Wool Classic Single-Breasted Coat

A lot of readers say wool coats are seen frequently in Paris during the winter and while that may seem impractical, wool is fairly sturdy, and unlike other fabrics, wool doesn’t absorb water, so they are more water-resistant.

This pretty Quince Italian classic  wool jacket has a convertible zip up collar to turn into a cowl and act as a scarf. Its asymmetrical line is modern, and so beautifully chic for the romantic setting of the city.  

Cougar Villa Lug Platform Bootie

What shoes should I wear in Paris in winter?

If it snows during your trip, opt for a pair of warm winter boots . If it will be cold and rainy without snow, so opt for cute and versatile waterproof leather boots instead.

These Cougar Villa boots has a cheeky lug sole heel, so they’re a great combination of high fashion and practicality—a super elegant choice!  Wearers gush about the cushioned insole, slip resistant, and cold protection from the fleece lining that’ll keep your feet super happy in the cold!

ECCO Soft 7 Chelsea Sneakers

Leather sneakers are also an option for mild days. (Tip: wear skin colored stockings underneath for discreet warmth around your ankles.). High top sneakers have been sighted on the cobblestone streets. 

The ECCO Chelsea high tops are made of smooth nappa leather, with light cushioning, and can be worn with pants or dresses. Use some waterproofing spray to treat them for the weather, and still wear some lightweight merino wool socks .

Paris Packing List for Winter

• Three long sleeve sweaters
• One long sleeve dress
• One winter jacket
• Three winter socks
• Waterproof tall or ankle leather boots (sightseeing)
• Leather sneakers (sightseeing)
• Ballet flat or heeled ankle boot (dressing up)
• Closed toe wedges : (optional)

Away The Carry-On 21″ Suitcase

What is the Best Luggage for Paris?

So the hard part’s out of the way; after much turmoil you’ve finally perfected your packing list for Paris and created a chic capsule collection – now it’s time to get packing! Which luggage will work best for you?

There are various things to consider when choosing the best luggage for Europe including a difference in carry on size, strict weight restrictions, mobility on the cobblestone streets, and long flights of stairs. 

The Away the Carry On 21” fits in overhead compartments and is a clamshell design so you can pack on both sides! It’s durable, pretty, and so functional that readers truly adore it! 

Travelpro Platinum Elite Softside Expandable 20″ Carry on Luggage

The best suitcase to have when traveling Paris is a rigid trolley case, ideally with four castors. The trolley should be divided into two compartments (not just one big compartment) for easy packing. These are easy to travel with on bumpy terrain.

If you want a softside option, the ultimate reader favorite brand is Travelpro . Their Platinum Elite soft luggage 20” has spinner wheels, organizational pockets on the front, has a USB port, can even hold a laptop, and is expandable.  

Read these tips on how to pick a suitcase and consider one of these top brands . Make your life easy by choosing from the most recommended carry on suitcases for Europe .

WANDF 18″ Foldable Travel Duffle Bag

For a European carry on size bag, a backpack is always a good option for those of us who prefer to travel hands-free. Learn how to choose the best travel backpack .

A travel tip for souvenir shopping is to bring a   packable duffle bag to store all your goodies. Readers swear by the Wandf packable duffle and say it’s so easy to transport and is useful for other things like hauling laundry, not just gifts or souvenirs. 

Compass Rose Compression Packing Cubes

Depending on how many days or weeks you’re traveling, you may want to use luggage organizers such as packing cubes , which allow optimum use of the space in your luggage, keeping everything organized and in place during your travels, and making the task of unpacking and repacking simple and stress-free. Check out this video  on how to organize using packing cubes, it’s incredibly easy! 

Keep in mind that most of Europe’s budget airlines have a carry-on bag allowance of 55cm x 40cm x 20cm. Always check your airlines’ individual baggage rules and regulations in advance.

If you want more resources on what type of suitcase to choose for Paris, start here:

• Best lightweight luggage under 5 lbs
• Best Hardside Luggage 
• Best Softside Luggage 
• Find the Best Carry On Suitcase to Suit Your Trip 
• Best International Carry On Luggage 
• Best Expandable Luggage That’s Lightweight
• Backpack Vs Suitcase: Which is Right for My Trip to Europe?

Sherpani Soleil Convertible Travel Backpack

What is the Best Personal Item for Paris?

Among your summer essentials for Paris is a cut e day bag that’s comfortable to carry for hours on end and will securely hold your essentials. A lot of readers highly recommend an anti-theft travel purse or a cross body purse , as pickpocketing can be an issue in Paris, especially in crowded areas. 

If you like to keep things light and compact, opt for a small crossbody purse like the Sherpani Soleil convertible backpack . Readers adore Sherpani’s anti-theft purses , and this cute little option is durable yet stylish and affordable, too! 

Slightly larger but still light and compact, Travelon’s Classic Messenger bag is a consistent TFG favorite. It’s neutral in design, so it’ll look great with all of your outfits, and its excellent organization and top-notch security features make it a stellar travel companion. 

Lo & Sons Pearl Crossbody

Another TFG fave is the Lo & Sons Pearl crossbody . It’s made of gorgeous, high-quality leather and boasts great organization and a chic look. Readers say it feels super secure to carry, too. You can’t go wrong with a chic leather purse in Paris! 

If you need some extra space for the day’s essentials or you plan on doing some shopping, opt for an anti-theft backpack to store all you need while deterring any risk of theft. 

BAGSMART Toiletry Bag Travel Bag with Hanging Hook

When traveling to Paris, you’ll need some of the standard, essential toiletries, including:

• Shampoo and conditioner
• Moisturizer (face and body)
• Makeup (we recommend keeping it simple: mascara, concealer, and a lip tint that doubles as a blush)
• Hair ties and bobby pins
• Dry shampoo

Worried that all your toiletries, makeup, skincare, and hair styling tools won’t fit into your suitcase? Read these tips on how to travel size toiletries to learn how to make the most of limited space without sacrificing your routine!

We recommend you take the most important products in travel containers like these and try to either buy basics like shampoo and shower gel in Europe or use the items provided by hotels.

Dual Voltage Plavogue Styling Brush

Also, consider your makeup–in many European cities, women opt for natural makeup focusing on a well groomed but not over-the-top appearance.

While a daily salon blow out isn’t necessary, be mindful of your hair and makeup. Find out if it’s necessary to bring a travel blow dryer here or a another popular choices is a blow dryer brush .

When choosing your styling tools, choose items that have dual voltage and bring along a travel adapter for all your electronics. Just make sure to add all these items to your backpacking packing list for Europe so you don’t forget them.

Check out our guide to toiletries for more tips!

What Should I NOT Pack for Paris?

While great to look at, stone streets aren’t always the easiest to walk on and can make for sore feet even if you don’t normally have discomfort. Depending on the city, these streets can also be hilly, slippery when wet, and uneven. So, it’s not recommended to pack heels. If you want some more dressy shoes, readers advise bringing wedges . 

Are Jeans Appropriate to Wear in Paris?

While Europeans tend to dress up more than Americans, you still can wear jeans in Paris. However, avoid acid wash and extremely distressed denim and opt for medium-dark blues and blacks. 

Our readers voted for the best skinny jeans for travel!

Are Leggings Okay to Wear in Paris?

Some travelers love wearing leggings for comfort, but they’re often too casual looking as pants for Paris. If you’re a big fan of leggings, consider pairing a black pair with long tunics during the spring, or wearing them under Paris style dresses and skirts in fall and winter.

Our readers voted for the best leggings for women that travel!

Paris Travel Tips

Before you head on your tour of Paris , check out these frequently asked questions on traveling to Paris.

What’s the best time of year to visit Paris?

While summer offers perfect temperatures, it’s also the busiest time of year for visiting Paris. For this very reason, many experts say fall is the best season to visit Paris because the temperatures are still comfortable but there are fewer tourists.

Weather in Paris

In summer, you can expect sunny days in the 70s and 80s, with temperatures dropping a little into fall. While it doesn’t snow in winter, it gets very cold, and December is the rainiest month.

Never travel without checking the weather forecast as this will be your ultimate packing guide for Paris. Remember that each city will have its own weather pattern so check the forecast for all the destinations you plan to visit.

Use websites such as Accuweather or Holiday Weather for advanced forecasts and don’t forget to check the weather one week and three days before your trip as mother nature doesn’t run on a tight schedule.

What are the best accommodations in Paris?

We love Airbnb for accommodation in Paris. Sign up here for a free $40 credit!

I prefer to book “the entire home” instead of opting for shared accommodation on Airbnb. Aside from safety, I also like to feel like I’m living in the destination. It’s a small taste of local life plus you get more amenities than you would at a hotel such as a kitchen and washing machine.

Read these Airbnb tips for more info!

If you prefer the convenience and comfort of a hotel room, I like using both Agoda.com and Hotels.com . Tip: Hotels.com gives you a free night for every ten nights you book!

For hostels, we recommend Hostelworld and Hostelbookers . Always read the reviews before booking to get the best idea if the hostel is right for you. Some are quiet and family friendly while others are known for their party atmosphere.

Not sure about staying at a hostel? Read this.

What’s the Best Way to Get to Paris?

For flights, I like booking through Travelocity or Cheapoair (whichever one’s cheapest). Although I prefer Travelocity because they have a 24 hour money back guarantee.

To maximize your vacation time, fly into the city where you’re starting your trip and out of the city where your trip ends. Many times it’s the same price and saves you from having to spend extra time and money to go back to where you started your trip.

How to Get Around Paris

Paris has a fantastic metro that makes it easy to get around the city and travel throughout the arrondissements. It’s affordable, reliable, and quick.

There is also a bus and train system to get you to and from the airport, as well as to other cities if you expand your travels outside of Paris.

Paris is a very walkable city, and walking allows you to see all the beautiful and old architecture as you explore the city.

Things to Do in Paris

Paris is one of the most amazing cities to visit because there are so many beautiful sites to take in. Follow our recommendations before you travel to Paris .

What are the best sites in Paris to see?

• Eiffel Tower
• Arc de Triomphe
• Luxembourg Gardens
• Musée d’Orsay
• Centre Pompidou
• Champs-Élysées

What are the best tours in Paris?

Some travelers prefer the guidance of professionals for planning their trip. If you’re a fan of tours, check out these top tours for Paris.

• Rick Steves’ Tours
• Secret Food Tours
• Local Paris Tours
• Wine Day Tours

Where’s the best shopping in Paris?

Paris is synonymous with fashion. It’s a city filled with luxurious designer fashion houses, but if you are looking for more budget-friendly shops, try these: Monoprix, Tati, and City Pharma, where you can get all your basic travel essentials.

For more tips, read this post on shopping in Paris !

Compass Rose Secret Bra Wallet

Safety is a big concern whenever you travel, and in busy, touristy areas like Paris, pickpocketing can be a common occurrence. Taking a few safety precautions can help you feel less stressed during your travels.

How can I stay safe while traveling in Paris?

Be cautious about where you stash your cash so you don’t fall prey to muggings and pickpocketing. Make your clothing theft-proof and choose items with strong zippers. Jeans are handy for this reason: you can put important items, like your wallet and phone, in your front pockets, where it’s very difficult for a wandering hand to snatch it. Add items like the Secret Bra Pocket and Underwear with Pockets to your packing list. You could also buy clothing with hidden pockets to hide valuables even deeper! 

And be mindful of purse snatchers! They either slash the bottom of your bag so the content fall out or slash the strap. Wear your purse strap across your body and the zipper towards the front. For extra security, check out the “theft-proof” bags featured in this post about crossbody purses .

These are articles with other suggested anti-theft products:

• Money Belts and Anti-theft Accessories
• Best Anti-theft Bags for Women
• 6 Tools to Protect Your From Pickpockets in Europe

Remember, the safest place for your passport is locked in your accommodation. Carry a photocopy or other ID when you’re sightseeing or are out at night.

Read these tips on how to keep your passport safe when you travel!

Suggested Anti-Theft Accessories for Paris

• Bra stash ,  neck pouch , or  money belt  with RFID protection
• Anti-theft crossbody bag
• Passport case
• TSA-approved luggage lock
• Clothing with hidden pockets (like  underwear ,  tops , and  scarves )

Key Takeaways:

• In general, day-to-day European style is more dressy than American style, but this does not mean business clothing. A nice blouse and well designed denim is a timeless uniform that can work in Paris just as well as any other part of Europe.
• Ultimately, choose comfortable, classic clothing that will transcend trends so you can look back at the pictures from your trip with fond memories.
• With shoes, always choose comfort over fashion as you’ll spend long hours on your feet – don’t forget to break them in!
• Elevators are not prevalent in local accommodation; be prepared to lift your own luggage up many flights of stairs and steep cobblestone hills.
• Avoid oversized, heavy luggage if you plan to use trains, buses, or budget flights as storage space is limited. You should be able to maneuver through train stations (and trains) with ease.
• Pickpockets are prevalent in all tourist cities, be aware of your surroundings and be practical about your belongings.
• ALWAYS check the weather before you travel.

For more ideas on what to wear in Paris, please read this  10 Step Paris Packing Guide !

What’s in your packing list for Paris? Share in the comment section below!

Please note: Most of Europe’s budget airlines have this carryon bag allowance: 55cm x 40cm x 20cm. Always check your airline’s individual baggage rules and regulations in advance.

For more tips, please read these Europe packing lists:

Suggested travel resources:

• Lonely Planet Europe on a Shoestring
• Lonely Planet Paris (Travel Guide)
• Travel Shoes for Europe
• The Best Carry-on Suitcases for Europe

Please read our Ultimate  Packing List for Europe  featuring stylish outfits and travel tips for 9 countries.

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We hope this packing list helps you plan what to wear in Paris. Don’t forget to share the love on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest. Thanks for reading!

Loved this article!!

Great article.. Will keep in mind all your tips for my visit to Paris this May

Thanks! Hope it helps 🙂

What is appropriate dress code for a 70 year old woman who is a little ‘hip’?

Thanks Sophie

Hi Sophie, thanks for your question! I will post it on our Facebook page to get the best feedback for you 🙂

What a well thought out blog, alas I have been to paris many times, but being 50 and a little chunky, still find it very difficult to pack, all the clothing you have recommended are lovely but a bit young for me, still I can admire the young uns wearing them! Thanks.

Thank you Sue!

15 things to see and do on your first trip to Paris

Want more tips for planning the ultimate trip to Paris? Visit our new Paris destination hub and check back throughout the week for travel guides, first-timers guides, restaurant recommendations and more!

Paris is a city that many points-and-miles travelers return to again and again. It's alluring for so many reasons -- the incredible culinary adventures you can have, its lens into history through its architecture and art museums, its walkability and world-class shopping. There is a lot to see and do in Paris and first-timers can have a hard time fitting it all in.

To help you get your bearings in the City of Light, here is TPG's list of things every first-time visitor to Paris should do. It's not an exhaustive list, but if you check off these 15 things, we bet you'll want to return to Paris to see even more.

Related: Should I fly to Paris Charles de Gaulle or Orly?

Get acclimated on a hop-on, hop-off sightseeing bus

Depending on where you're coming from, you may be tempted to check into your hotel on the first day and sleep off that jet lag. Do not do it! Instead, push yourself to get outside and start exploring the city. An easy way to do that is by stepping aboard one of the city's hop-on, hop-off sightseeing buses. You may not be a fan of this type of exploration, but here are some reasons why sightseeing buses are awesome . Several companies, including Big Bus, offer tours along a variety of routes. You can ride the complete circuit without getting off or, if you have some energy, hop on and off at your whim. We suggest riding for a bit and then hopping off for a coffee and croissant.

Related: Mistakes travelers often make during their first trip to Paris

Be part of cafe culture

Paris is known throughout the world for its sidewalk cafes . On Day One of your trip -- and every day thereafter -- you owe it to yourself to seek out an outdoor table at a cafe, order a coffee and croissant and people-watch. Some popular options are Cafe de la Paix at the InterContinental Paris-Le Grand and, in Saint-Germain, Les Deux Magots and Cafe de Flore. Brush up on your French a bit so you can order and communicate -- even just a little bit -- with your waiter.

Cruise the Seine

As the evening falls on your first night, consider a romantic cruise along the Seine. You can book a cruise with commentary or even a full-blown dinner cruise that includes drinks, a meal and musical entertainment. Some ticket packages, like certain Big Bus options and The Paris Pass, include a Seine cruise. Or purchase tickets a la carte. A nighttime Seine cruise can be magical as the city lights up all around you. It's wonderful to cruise during the day too. It's your choice.

Visit the Eiffel Tower

It's pretty much impossible to visit Paris and not catch a glimpse of the Eiffel Tower but it's worth visiting up close. You can skip the lines by buying a ticket in advance or getting entrance as part of a package. At the tower, explore the groundfloor Esplanade. That's where you'll find the information desk, a sculpture of Gustave Eiffel and the 1899 hydraulic machines that still operate the elevators. You'll also find restaurants and gift shops. In the tower itself, you can go to the first floor (with its glass floor, shops and restaurants), second floor (to view the cityscape and so many of its landmarks as well as dine at The Jules Verne Restaurant) and right to the top for breathtaking views. The top floor is 276 meters above ground and there's a Champagne bar up there to add to the festiveness.

Explore the Louvre -- more than once

The Louvre wins over everyone -- even people who normally don't enjoy art museums. There is so much to see, from the architecture of the building itself to the art (don't just see the Mona Lisa and then ditch), the adjacent Tuileries Garden, the Carrousel du Louvre mall under the gardens and nearby Saint Honore and Place Vendome. (Make a point to stop at Angelina on Rue Rivoli for some excellent pastries and hot chocolate.)

The museum is huge and you won't be able to see everything in one visit so consider coming back a second time. Try daytime and nighttime visits. The museum is open until 9:45 p.m. on Wednesdays and Fridays. Arrive around 6 p.m. and the crowds will be much lighter. And download the museum's app in advance so you can select which galleries you'd prefer exploring. (For a fantastic hotel with views of the Louvre, check out Hyatt's Hotel du Louvre .)

Related: How to avoid the soul-crushing crowds at the Louvre

Walk along the Champs-Elysees

You may not normally shop designer brands but that's no reason to skip a stroll along the famed Champs-Elysees in the 8th arrondissement. This shopping boulevard runs from Place de la Concorde to the Arc de Triomphe and is lined with boutiques like Louis Vuitton, Tiffany and Guerlain.

Related: Paris on points is possible -- here's where to stay

See the Arc de Triomphe

The Arc de Triomphe, at the west end of the Champs-Elysees, is one of the most renowned monuments in the city. It honors those who fought and lost their lives in the French Revolution and Napoleonic Wars. It's located in the Place Charles de Gaulle and the plaza is the convergence of the 16th, 17th and 8th arrondissements.

Tour the Palais Garnier

There are so many gorgeous historic buildings in Paris. If you enjoy architecture, take a tour of -- or at least walk by -- Palais Garnier (Opera Garnier) in the 9th arrondissement. Napoleon III ordered its construction, which took place between 1861 and 1875. The building has long been famous and was even the setting for the 1910 novel, "The Phantom of the Opera" by Gaston Leroux. Dozens of artisans worked on the interior and exterior of the building. Take in the Grand Foyer, Grand Staircase and the incredible statues by Gumery perched atop the building. You can take a self-guided or guided tour of this stupendous building. Note that the InterContinental Paris-Le Grand is just a few minute's walk from the Opera House. If you haven't yet enjoyed a Parisian cafe, check out Cafe de la Paix at the hotel.

Shop at the Galeries Lafayette Paris Haussmann

Just a five-minute walk from Palais Garnier is Galeries Lafayette Paris Haussmann. Here you can get the quintessential Paris shopping experience with all the luxury brands you love. There are all sorts of activities year-round. Right now, you'll find a free rooftop skating rink, a children's fashion workshop and the Glasswalk. This nine-meter-long walkway is suspended 16 meters in the air so you can get to the middle of the building's dome from the third floor of the main store.

Related: 3 ways to do Paris on points

Whatever you do, cut yourself some slack in the dieting department when you visit Paris. There are so many wonderful gourmet shops, bakeries, patisseries, cafes, bistros and restaurants. Plan to walk as much as you can throughout the day so you won't feel guilty sampling baguettes, croissants, pastries, cheese, charcuterie, chocolates and so much more. Don't miss TPG's guide to Paris' best croissants, cheese, chocolate and pastries .

And, consider joining a food tour. We've done several with Paris by Mouth and have always had a wonderful time with spot-on suggestions for where to eat and shop in the city. What's fun about the tours is that many take you to the best markets in town, like the covered Marche des Enfants Rouges in the Marais district, founded in 1628. It's a fantastic place to see how Parisians shop and you can also have lunch there.

Ride the funicular to Montmartre for Sacre-coeur

Tourists rightfully flock to Butte Montmartre, the highest point in Paris and the location of the Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Paris -- Sacre-Coeur. This Roman Catholic church in the 18th arrondissement is one of the most-visited sites in Paris. The Roman-Byzantine building is beautiful, there's an incredible pipe organ inside and the views from the basilica are captivating. To get to the domed church, you'll take a funicular. You can explore the church for free but if you want to climb the steps to the dome, you'll need to buy a ticket.

See Paris' "dark side" in the Catacombs

On the macabre side of tourism are the Catacombs of Paris in the 14th arrondissement. These underground tunnels, formerly a quarry, hold the remains of six million people, transferred here in the 18th century after public health concerns about the city's cemeteries. In 1809, the catacombs were opened to the public. This is not the perfect attraction for anyone with mobility challenges since there are 131 steps to descend into the catacombs and 112 steps to climb back up. Plan on spending about an hour on-site.

See Notre Dame -- even if you can't go inside

In April 2019, fire ravaged Notre Dame Cathedral . Although the spire and part of the roof collapsed, 400 firefighters saved the two main bell towers and the cathedral's facade. Still, the damage was extensive and tours inside the structure are not permitted at this time. You should still make a point to view the exterior of the building.

Related: Paris hotels on points for families of 4

Experience a show at the Moulin Rouge

If you visited Montmartre during the day to see Sacre-Coeur, return in the evening for a cabaret performance at Moulin Rouge. There are glamorous showgirls, fabulous costumes, incredible set design, music and more. Even if you're not into these types of shows, it's kind of a rite of passage when visiting the city for the first time.

  View this post on Instagram   Nous espérons que vous passez un bel été ! We are hoping that you are spending a great summer! ☀️ ©Moulin Rouge #moulinrouge #moulinrougeofficiel #show #spectacle #paris #dance #danse #montmartre #backstage #coulisses #feerie #revue #france #dancer #danseur #makeup #warmup #maquillage #friendship #gettingready #smile #summer A post shared by Le Moulin Rouge - Officiel (@moulinrougeofficiel) on Aug 2, 2019 at 7:30am PDT

Wander and get lost

Finally, the best piece of advice is this: Get out into the city and explore. It's easy to get around on foot or via the Metro or ride-hailing service. Wander and take in everything Paris has to offer. We guarantee you that your first visit won't be your last.

Home > Paris Travel Tips > How Much Does a Trip to Paris Cost [2024] (+ Paris Budget Calculator)

How Much Does a Trip to Paris Cost [2024] (+ Paris Budget Calculator)

How much is a trip to paris.

Are you planning a trip to Paris for a week or two but don’t know exactly how much a trip to Paris costs?

Of course, your daily Paris budget depends on the way you travel and the limit you set. To help you plan your trip to Paris , we have covered some average prices and set different types of budgets with different Paris trip expenses so you can get an idea of a trip to Paris’s cost.

How Much Does it Cost to Travel to Paris? [2024]

On average, the cost of life in Paris is 24% higher than in the rest of France.

In Paris, trip expenses depend on the people and the way they travel. We often hear that Paris is an expensive city, but this is not necessarily true.

It is possible to cut down costs if you sleep in the lesser central districts of Paris and avoid tourist areas to have your meals. Also, there are many free things to do in Paris, so you can spend wonderful days in the French capital and pay nothing to keep you busy.

On the other side, people visiting Paris want to enjoy the main attractions, get spoiled and have fun: after all, they are on holiday! And Paris knows how to treat people well, so if you opt for sleeping in a hotel Palace, having a delicious dinner in a Michelin restaurant, and shopping in the Golden Triangle, you can easily triple or quadruple your daily budget in Paris.

Below, we have collected some average daily prices to help you plan your own budget for Paris. You will also find a Paris trip budget calculator to use in € or USD at the end of the post.

Travel Insurance for Paris Cost

Most people don’t think that getting travel insurance is important, but it is highly recommended to mitigate travel risks. An insurance combination of medical and travel-related coverage is not expensive, and you will be happy to have it if you are in trouble.

SafetyWing , for example, has flexible plans from 5 days to 364 days. It also has great customer service and competitive prices, and we really think it is the best option. Below, are the prices of travel insurance with Safety Wing for one week in Paris:

• 10-39 years old: $9.24
• 40-49 years old: $14.98
• 50-59 years old: $23.52
• 60-69 years old: $31.92

Accommodation in Paris Cost

On average, the cost of hotels in Paris is 34% higher than in the rest of France.

From a bunk bed in a shared dorm to a suite in a hotel-palace in Paris , the price range is so large that it is difficult to set an average price for accommodation in Paris.

Also, it depends on the district of Paris where you decide to set your base camp – head here for the best districts to stay in Paris for different types of vacations.

To get an idea, we have grouped hotels into 4 categories. As you can see, the limit is the sky!

• Bunk bed in a hostel for one person: 18-30€ ($20-33)
• Double room in a budget hotel: €90 ($99)
• Double room in a mid-range hotel: €90–190 ($99-210)
• Double room in a top-end hotel: €190–1500 ($210-388 )

Meals in Paris Cost

Some hotel rooms come with breakfast included, while other hotels have breakfast as an option.  A breakfast in a hotel in Paris costs between 9€ to 20€ ($10-22), depending on the hotel’s category.

If you decide to eat something-something in a café, count 4.5€ to 8€ ($4.5-9), depending on what you take.

Lunch /Dinner

Serious sightseers usually opt for light, on the go meals, so they don’t spend too much eating for lunch. A sandwich in a bakery usually costs from 4€ to 6€ ($45-7), depending on the sandwich, and you can get a quick meal for less than 15€  ($17).

A proper meal in a restaurant depends on its category and the district where it is located.

Generally, mains in an average restaurant cost around 15€ ($17), while mains in an expensive, chic restaurant cost from 35€ to 55€ ($38-61).

Activities in Paris Cost

For sure, you will want to add a couple of activities or sights to your Paris travel budget. You will pay on average from 12€ to 18€ ($13.5-20) per person to visit a museum or attraction in Paris. The costs increase if you buy skip-the-line tickets or you add audio guides.

If this is your first time in Paris and you want to tick the main attractions off your bucket list, you may want to consider the Paris Museum Pass . This pass is for 2, 4, or 6 days and it cuts down the costs considerably. Head here to read our Paris Museum Pass review.

Transportation in Paris Cost

The transportation in Paris cost depends on how often you plan to use public transportation. Paris is such a walkable city that some people use the Parisian metro only for longer distances.

A single metro ticket costs 1.90€, but there are interesting daily /weekly and tourist passes that help cut down the costs. Read about the Paris Metro tickets and passes .

• Transportation from Airport to city costs 13.90€ ($15) with the RER train
• Door-to-door shared transportation (up to 8 people) costs 15€ per person ($16.5)
• Door-to-door private transportation costs around €67 ($74) the car for up to 4 people.

How Expensive is a Trip to Paris? Recap Paris Travel Costs [2024]

Below, a recap o the main Paris travel costs so you can calculate your daily budget for Paris:

• Health Travel Insurance for up to 39 years old (1 week): 8.5€ ($9.24)
• Accommodation (hotel or hostel for one person): 18-30€ ($20-33)
• Double room in a budget hotel: 90€ ($99)
• Double room in a mid-range hotel: 90–190€ ($99-210)
• Double room in a top-end hotel: 190–1500€ ($210-388 )
• Food (meals for one day, without drinks): 63€ (70$)
• Water (bottled water for one day): 1.99€ ($2.1). But tap water is free
• Local Transportation: 7.9€ ($8.7)
• Transfer Airport /City: 13.70€ to 67€ ($15-74)
• Entertainment (entrance tickets, shows, etc): 15€ to 150€ ($17-165)
• Tips and Handouts (for guides and service providers) 10€ ($11)
• Wine: 17€ ($19)

How Much Does it Cost to Go to Paris for 1 Week?

Keeping in mind the prices above, we have calculated a 1 week in Paris budget for different travel styles: budget, mid-range, and high.

Cost of Trip to Paris for Two

BUDGET (cheap): 1,500€ ($1,650) for 2 people

If you visit Paris on a budget, you will opt for a hostel in Paris or a budget double room. You will walk or use public transportation exclusively and avoid exclusive restaurants, perhaps with a cheap eat at lunch.

Visiting paid attractions may be quite limited except for perhaps one bucket list spot, and you will try to combine paid attractions with city walks or free museums and activities.

MID-RANGE: 2,400€ ($2,750) for 2 people

At this price point, you’ll be able to visit most attractions you would like to see, though perhaps not every single one, splurge on a guided tour, and eat at restaurants more comfortably.

Depending on whether you’re traveling in low or high season, you may struggle to find comfortable lodging on a mid-range budget in Paris, and you may need to sacrifice a bit on location. Booking in advance, especially during the high season, will be essential!

When traveling on a mid-range budget, prioritization will be essential to balance the Paris trip expenses. If you have your heart set on a particular bucket list experience in Paris, you’ll likely need to cut expenses elsewhere to make it work.

HIGH (luxury): – – –

How much does it cost to go to Paris for luxury travelers? When it comes to luxury travel, the sky is the limit in a city like Paris.

If you have that kind of budget for Paris, use private transportation from the airport to the hotel , choose your favorite hotel with Eiffel Tower view , eat in the city’s best restaurants and book private guides for your bucket list of museums in Paris.

And if you book all these through this humble blog, you will contribute to our stock of French wine, so cheers!

We hope that you found this article useful to estimate your Paris budget. If you want to calculate your Paris trip budget for more or fewer days than a week, you can use our Paris trip budget calculator for free.

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Disclaimer: This post includes affiliate links, meaning I get a small commission if you make a purchase through my links. It costs you nothing more (in fact, if anything, you’ll get a nice discount) but helps me to go on creating incredible Paris content for you. I trust all products promoted here and would never recommend a product that isn’t of value. World in Paris is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases at no expense to you.

About WORLD IN PARIS

Quirky parisian explorer with a preference for lesser-known sights, i am continuously looking for new ideas and tips to bring you the best of the city of light read more about me ., i am elisa, the travel blogger behind world in paris. quirky explorer with a preference for the local side of my city and its lesser-known sights, i am continuously looking for new ideas to enjoy the best of paris & around . do you want to go beyond the louvre museum or the eiffel tower keep clicking for first-hand information & my best tips learn more.

So, Where Do You Stay in Paris?

Our very discerning friends defend their choices.

The Peninsula

“Anywhere in the world where there’s a Peninsula, I’m there, because it reminds me of my childhood in Asia. I can be assured that the room will be exquisitely appointed, with the Peninsula-only bells and whistles, and the breakfast buffet will be incredible.” — Kevin Kwan , author

Hôtel Plaza Athénée

“Maybe it’s because a beau took me there in my twenties and told them it was our honeymoon and all was over-the-top indulgence, but even after marrying my Paul, I still have the same delicious feelings.” — Bridget Gless Keller , philanthropist

La Réserve Paris

“It’s the perfect combination of luxe and intime . I sent Nancy Meyers and she loved it—and I’m very careful about hotel recommendations to Nancy.” — David Netto , interior designer

“As a little girl I would stay there with my grandmother and be in awe of the beauty. I always look forward to the luxurious bedrooms and monogrammed sheets. There is nothing better than a hotel that makes you feel at home.” — Aerin Lauder , founder of AERIN

"A great palace hotel performs like a ballet, dancing the fine line between the elegant and the egregious, the glamorous and the gauche, properly Paris and not a pastiche." — David Prior

Le Pavillon de la Reine

“Quiet, regal, and hiding in plain sight, like a mini–Garden of Eden. We were introduced to it by Karl Lagerfeld, who told us he once lived across the Vosges in a dingy but splendid attic room, and from his tiny balcony he could peer into the Pavillon’s attic rooms.” — Ruben Toledo , artist

Hotel Récamier

Hôtel Récamier , 3 bis Place Saint-Sulpice

“Named for Juliette Récamier, one of the leaders of the French Fashion Revolution, this small and exquisite hotel is tucked into a corner of the elegant Place Saint Sulpice. It's near the rue Bonaparte, married name of Juliette's companion-in-style Joséphine, as well as some of the best Paris shopping, and the delicious Poîlane bakery.” — Anne Higonnet , art historian

“Balcony views of the Tuileries. The martini at Bar 228. The breakfast, always the breakfast. It’s one of the reasons I can’t quit Le Meurice—just like Salvador Dalí, a Presidential Suite fixture for three decades.” — Erik Maza , T&C executive style director

Shangri-La Paris

“Because of that view of the Eiffel Tower sparkling at dusk!” — Dania Lucero Ortiz , T&C fashion & accessories director

Hotel Montalembert

Hotel Montalembert , 3 Rue de Montalembert

"It's glamorous but not pompous, established yet never old, and abidingly elegant without in-your-face majesty. In everything it suggests true magnificence, the understated kind. Its restaurant is superb, its rooms offer wonderful views of all Paris, and a few steps away is the Boulevard Saint-Germain, and two blocks down the Seine. You're on the Left Bank but in another world." — André Aciman , author

Le Bristol Paris

“It just gets it right: old-school impeccable service with 21st-century modern luxury. To do it so effortlessly is actually very difficult.” — Martina Mondadori , founder of Cabana

Lutetia Paris

“The Lutetia, where I've often stayed is a beautiful hotel with a fantastic location, amazing gym and spa, and a great bar, Bar Josephine, that’s buzzy and not pretentious. I would almost stay here for the gym alone. Even when I'm living in my apartment, I come to the gym here.” — Darren Star , creator of Emily in Paris

Le Royal Monceau — Raffles Paris

“I love the playfulness of its decor and the clearly Parisian clientele in its restaurants (key to any city hotel). And its location makes me swoon: the Arc de Triomphe closing it off at one end, and Parc Monceau on the other, redolent of Proust’s presence.” — Klara Glowczewska , T&C executive travel editor

Le Pavillon Faubourg Saint-Germain

Le Pavillon Faubourg Saint-Germain , 5 Rue du Pré-aux-Clercs

Wherever I go, the first criteria for me is the location. The ultimate luxury for me is to be able to visit a city by foot! Being in the interior design world, Saint-Germain offers interesting small antique dealers, and charming restaurants and boutiques. This hotel is in the perfect location. You can walk to the Café de Flore in 2 minutes! — Marco Scarani , founder of Creel and Gow

Hôtel de Crillon

"It's undeniably glamorous (Marie Antoinette is said to have taken piano lessons here), and each room comes with a butler to look after you—though not too closely when it's time to nick the Buly 1803 products in the bathroom." — Adam Rathe , T&C deputy features director

Hôtel Particulier Montmartre

Hôtel Particulier Montmartre , 23 Av. Junot Pavillon D

"Generally, I am happy enough in hotels in 'alive' neighborhoods, like the charming Hôtel Particulier Montmartre, where I can walk out the door and find a great bottle and pull a picnic together from a market, fromagerie, and boulangerie within 30 minutes." — David Prior , founder of PRIOR

AUTRES CHOSES We also love the Saint James Paris in the 16th, because it's like your own château in the middle of the city, and the Four Seasons George V , because they treat you like royalty.

Et Hors Paris?

If you want to get out of the city (but not venture too far), we have opinions about that, too., airelles château de versailles.

"Oscar Wilde said when good Americans die, they go to Paris. Well, the very best ones go to Le Grand Contrôle, which is worth the stay just to have the Hall of Mirrors all to yourself after the public is gone. Borrow bikes and ride around Versailles’s famous Le Nôtre gardens. The Alain Ducasse restaurant can set up a picnic lunch for you." — Bronson van Wyck , event planner

Domaine de Primard

"If there was a platonic ideal of a French country house, this would be it. The scent of lilac and the peach orchards, the vegetable garden and the adorable farm animals, the supremely comfortable beds and delicious food. Oh, and have I mentioned this all used to be Catherine Deneuve's estate?" — Leena Kim , T&C editor

Abbaye des Vaux de Cernay

For a certain fashionable crowd, a few stops on the Parisian itinerary are obligatory. Caviar Kaspia, for instance. Or Le Voltaire for the fries. Hôtel de la Marine and Galerie Kugel, too. Lately, come le week-end, you'll find these jetsetters holding court at L'Abbaye des Vaux de Cernay, a former 12th-century monastery that was reborn in the 1800s as a country home for a Rothschild. Then a few years ago, hospitality firm Paris Society acquired the landmark site to turn it into a hotel. And who did they call on to decorate? Cordelia de Castellane, the creative mind behind Baby Dior and Dior Maison.

Leena Kim is an editor at Town & Country , where she covers travel, jewelry, education, weddings, and culture.

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Jennifer Lopez shares glimpse inside solo trip to Paris amid Ben Affleck split reports

Jennifer Lopez appears to be keeping her mind distracted as the rumours surrounding her marriage to Ben Affleck intensify. 

The 54-year-old singer, who recently cancelled her world tour, This Is Me… Now , has travelled to Paris where she attended Dior's Fall 2024 couture show. 

Taking to her Instagram page on Monday, the mum-of-two shared a series of snapshots from her short sojourn. "Petit voyage à Paris," she wrote in the caption. 

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For the fashion event, J-Lo rocked a long camel trench-style dress which was sleeveless and had asymmetrical detailing. The top half swirled around her body towards one side, creating a dramatic square neckline. She teamed the look with leather gloves and a coordinating small tote. 

The trip comes shortly after Jennifer's trip to Italy without husband Ben. She was joined by a group of her friends, and was pictured relaxing in a white swimsuit on a speedboat heading out to sea. 

Over the past few weeks, Jennifer and Ben - who married in 2022 - have been faced with rumours of a split as their $60 million home has been put on the market . 

Recently, Ben opened up about his relationship with his wife in an in-depth interview on the season 4 premiere of comedian Kevin Hart's show, Hart to Heart.

The Oscar-winning discussed the stark contrast between their public personas, revealing that while he is "a little bit shy" in front of the camera while Jennifer embraces her superstardom with ease. 

"We went somewhere with [Jennifer]. I can't remember because she's so famous, and - people love her. And she really represents something important to people," Ben shared. "For me, people are like, 'Hey, I like your movie,' and then they're like 'AHHHH! J-LO!'" 

He described the phenomenon as "amazing" but admitted that he doesn't enjoy the constant attention that comes with fame. This aversion often leads to him appearing unhappy in photographs. 

"This is why people see me [and] they're like, 'Well, this dude is always mad…' Because somebody has their camera and is sticking it in my face," he explained, emphasizing his protective nature, especially towards his children. 

Jennifer and Ben don't share any children together, but have made a conscious effort to bring their own families into their blended household. 

The singer is a proud mother of twins, Max and Emme, with her ex-husband Marc Anthony, while Ben shares Violet, Seraphina, and Samuel with his ex-wife, Jennifer Garner.

Paris seeing signs of 'healthy' travel demand ahead of Summer Olympics — but plenty of deals remain

The Summary:

• The 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris are right around the corner, but if you're looking to travel there, it may not be too late to find a deal.

The government in Paris is spending an estimated $9.7 billion on preparation for the Games, with hopes for 15 million visitors between late July and early September.

Airfares tracked by digital booking site Hopper show flights to Paris from the U.S. during the weekend of the opening ceremony averaging about $877 per ticket.

The 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris are set to see plenty of attendees — but travel data shows there are still opportunities for last-minute deal-hunters to capitalize on current market dynamics.

Roughly a month out from the Friday, July 26, torch-lighting ceremony that will kick off the games, more than 75% of Paris-area rooms tracked by analytics firm CoStar have been booked over the Games’ opening weekend. That compares with approximately 42% occupancy over the same weekend in 2023.

“Three out of four rooms is certainly a healthy performance,” said Jan Freitag, national director for hospitality market analytics at CoStar.

Freitag said occupancy would likely only increase as the Games approach, especially as people — primarily those in Europe who can make the trip by car or train — decide at the last minute that they want to attend. There hasn’t been a Summer Olympics played on the European continent since the Athens Games in 2004.

Unprecedented security and cleanup efforts have been undertaken, including a plan to prep the Seine river for competition — an effort highlighted by President Emmanuel Macron personally with a promise to take a dip in the water.

But nothing is guaranteed, and some would-be visitors to the City of Lights might be just as inclined to forgo the trip to avoid crowds, Freitag said.

“It’s a very, very special event — but it will be interesting to see how this number pans out compared to other Augusts in prior years,” he said. “There are always people who are staying away from these events too.”

Other travel sites showed a plethora of hotel deals still available — with at least one 3-star hotel in the heart of Paris showing 50% off usual rates for high summer, according to Google.

That is down 27% compared with the same period last year — but Hopper economist Hayley Berg said that largely reflects a step-down from the sky-high prices seen during the post-pandemic “revenge travel” surge that continued into 2023, along with greater seating capacity being offered by air carriers.

“This rebalancing of supply and demand, combined with the outliers of 2023 prices, mean that airfare this summer to Paris costs less than last year, even with the Olympics ahead,” Berg wrote in a statement.

“We expect that as Olympic trials complete and the Games grow closer, prices will surge as flights begin to sell out on specific travel dates,” Berg added.

In fact, bookings on the Hopper app for trips to Paris around the Olympic Games dates have doubled compared with last year at this time.

A French tourism minister recently said international flight arrivals to Paris were already up 24% for the period covering the Summer Games.

U.S. airfares in May were down 16% from last year, according to the latest reading from the c onsumer p rice i ndex — and overall, fares have returned to prepandemic levels.

But for would-be travelers with middle to lower incomes, Freitag said, a trip to Paris this summer is likely out of the question.

“The headline is bifurcation,” he said. “For the very high and high end, there’s still a lot of interest and money for high-end leisure and staying in upscale accommodations.”

But households making less than $75,000 annually or so “are feeling the pinch of higher inflation rates,” Freitag said. While the inflation rate has come down significantly from its peak in the summer of 2022 , it still hovers just above the Federal Reserve’s desired 2% mark.

“In the basket of things that you have to buy versus want to buy, have-to-buy items like car insurance are now so much more expensive versus want-to-buy like weekend trips,” he said. “So we are seeing a deceleration of that demand, especially for midscale-type properties.”

French officials have cautioned that while the boost from tourism should be substantial — more than $1 billion using the most conservative assumptions — it could take a year or longer to tabulate the true impact.

And historically, the ultimate economic effect for Olympic host cities has been mixed. A Council on Foreign Relations report note s that while the 1992 Summer Games in Barcelona are often cited as a tourism success story, there has been roughly an even split between cities that have seen some payoff from hosting the Olympics and those that haven’t.

Rob Wile is a breaking business news reporter for NBC News Digital.

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Joe Burrow and Justin Jefferson Take Paris by Storm—then Walk in Vogue World 2024

By Leah Faye Cooper

For friends and former college teammates Joe Burrow and Justin Jefferson, first came a national championship with LSU, then NFL superstardom, and now an instantly viral trip to Paris Fashion Week Men’s—capped off by walking in Vogue World 2024 . “I’ve always loved clothes but never really understood the industry, so I wanted to learn more,” Burrow tells Vogue. The Cincinnati Bengals quarterback landed in Paris earlier this week, where he and Minnesota Vikings wideout Jefferson sat front row at Amiri , toured the Hermès atelier, and indulged in French cuisine.

Burrow at Vogue World

“The lobster and shrimp at L’Avenue is fiiire ,” says Jefferson, who is visiting the City of Light for the first time. “There’s a lot of traffic, and the way people drive is kinda crazy, but it’s a great city,” he says, adding that he hopes to be known “as more than just a football player” and was partial to the Amiri show. “I wear Amiri a lot. It’s my style—relaxed and chill.”

Following a whirlwind of shows and parties, Burrow and Jefferson both hit the Vogue World 2024 runway. “I wanted to get out of my comfort zone and grow as a person, [and] I think walking in the show is a great way to do that,” says Burrow, who was dressed in a backless black suit with satin lapels by Peter Do . “I think the crossover between fashion and sport is going to continue to grow.”

Jefferson getting fitted

Participating in the star-studded, fashion-filled night was just as appealing to Jefferson. “This is my first show,” he says, “and who wouldn’t want Vogue World to be their first?” Ahead, an exclusive look at Joe Burrow and Justin Jefferson’s trip to Paris.

“Night one in Paris. Dinner at Le Clarence. Hard to beat.” —Joe Burrow

“Getting dressed in the car right before the Amiri show. I would always see people on TV and social media having to do this and thought it was crazy. Now I realize between traffic and close show times, it’s just something you have to do sometimes.” —Justin Jefferson

“Out in the streets of Paris with the papz was crazzzy.” —J.J.

“Two sides of the same coin. Outside the Amiri show.” —J.B.

“Joe and me taking a tour of the Hermès métier factory. It was dope to see the history behind the brand and how everything is made. The thoughtfulness, attention to detail, craftsmanship, and ability to reuse and recycle are impressive.” —J.J.

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Breaking news, jennifer lopez, worth $400 million, takes commercial flight without ben affleck after ‘emotional’ few weeks.

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Jenny on the plane.

Jennifer Lopez was spotted on a commercial flight traveling from Naples, Italy, to Paris on Saturday, photos obtained by TMZ show.

The “Let’s Get Loud” singer, 54, is worth an estimated $400 million, but she opted not to take a private jet to the City of Light.

Not only did she not fly private, Lopez traveled on an Air France flight and sat in a window seat in the economy section.

She appeared to have also reserved the seat next to her, where she placed her large handbag. Her bodyguard traveled with her and sat in the aisle seat, according to the Daily Mail .

Business class seats were not an option on the flight.

Lopez arrived in Paris on Monday and attended the Dior show debuting the fashion house’s haute couture fall 2024 collection.

The “Hustlers” star left Italy after enjoying a relaxing vacation without her husband, Ben Affleck.

She took a boat ride with friends in Positano and couldn’t stop taking selfies while rocking a $99 white one-piece Gooseberry bathing suit.

Also during the trip, Lopez went out to dinner with two pals — one man and one woman — at an upscale restaurant.

“Jen loves vacationing in Europe during the summer,” a source told “Entertainment Tonight” on Monday. “It’s been nice for her to experience a change of pace and have some breathing room. She has been having a blast with her friends.”

The insider added, “That’s never really been Ben’s scene, even when him and Jen weren’t having any issues. Jen isn’t letting the fact that Ben’s not there bring her down.”

The trip comes weeks after Lopez canceled her summer tour.

On Tuesday, a source told People that Lopez was “grateful” for time to herself, and that she and Affleck are “doing their own thing so far this summer.”

“Jennifer’s having a wonderful time in Europe. She loves Italy and visits every year. She’s grateful for a break,” the insider said. “The past few weeks have been emotional for her. Ben has been working in LA and is spending time with his kids. Everyone seems to be doing OK.”

Lopez and Affleck, 51, have been spending time apart as reports claim that they’re heading for a divorce two years after tying the knot.

While Lopez was in Italy, her husband has been trying to lie low in Los Angeles, where he’s filming the sequel to his 2016 movie “The Accountant.”

The Massachusetts-raised actor made headlines, though, for confronting paparazzi who were using flash cameras as he was behind the wheel pulling out of his and Lopez’s Beverly Hills mansion that’s rumored to be up for sale . Affleck got out of his car and chastised the photographers, warning them that they’re putting his life in danger.

The breakup rumors about the couple started when Lopez attended the Met Gala by herself in May.

Since then, the pair have been seen out together only a handful of times, including at Affleck’s 12-year-old son Samuel’s graduation earlier this month.  Lopez arrived separately and kept her distance at the event.

A source told People on June 11 that Lopez and Affleck “are still friendly and see each other every few days.”

The stars have not publicly addressed the speculation about their relationship.

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Former Rebel Sam Kendricks 'May Not Even Go' to Paris Olympics After 2021 COVID Drama in Tokyo

John macon gillespie | jun 22, 2024.

Sam Kendricks, a two-time pole vault world champion out of Oxford, Mississippi, and Ole Miss , may not join Team USA in the 2024 Paris Olympics, even if he qualifies for the games.

Why? It stems back to the 2021 games in Tokyo where he missed the action due to a positive COVID-19 test . The pole vaulter spoke with media on Saturday at the qualification rounds where he admitted he still harbors some bitterness for how the saga unfolded three years ago.

"I'm going to give you an answer you probably didn't want to hear: I don't like the Olympics," Kendricks said to a reporter. "The Olympics screwed me. Everybody at Team USA left me behind. I don't have any respect for the team that just left me in Tokyo and didn't give me a quote or even post a team picture.

"So, if I make this team, I may not even go."

Kendricks did state, however, that he would "compete his best" at the qualifying rounds because he "respects the other gentlemen on the track."

The prospect of missing out on the Olympics doesn't seem to bother the world-class athlete. He stated that the games are just a small part of the sport he plays year-round, and after feeling wronged in Tokyo, he doesn't believe it's a necessity for him to compete in Paris in a sport he loves.

"I compete against the best guys all the time," Kendricks said. "Everybody doesn’t understand: the Olympics is for the mamas. It’s for the mamas and for Facebook and everybody back home who wants to have something to watch and a dog in the fight. But the sport is done every day for four years in advance.

"Guys like me are professionals all the time. Sometimes you don’t get the spotlight until the Olympics, and they think it’s charity. I don’t think so. I work all the time, and it’s great. I love this sport. I picked it. I picked the difficulties that come with it. And I’m okay with that. It’s just the Olympics didn’t like me back in 2021. Why should I like them?"

Kendricks competed for Oxford High School before coming to Ole Miss and winning national championships in 2013 and 2014. It was then that he elected to go pro, and he won the bronze medal in Rio de Janeiro's 2016 Olympics before claiming world championships in 2017 and 2019.

JOHN MACON GILLESPIE

John Macon Gillespie is the publisher of The Grove Report and has experience on the Ole Miss beat spanning five years.

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