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.
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. 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.
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. For deeper insights, consider themed tours food, culture, history, street art, architecture, etc. Wear something comfortable, because Paris is best explored on foot.
