✈️ Closest Airports to Paris

Paris is extremely well connected by air, rail, and road. The two main airports are:

• Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) – 30 km northeast of the city center. Most international flights arrive here.

• Orly Airport (ORY) – 20 km south of Paris, great for European or domestic flights.

Both airports are connected to the city by train, bus, and taxi.

Charles de Gaulle airport
Photo by kallerna under licence CC BY-SA 4.0

Montparnasse train station
Photo by Thomon under licence CC BY-SA 4.0

🚆Coming to Paris by Train

While train travel in France can be efficient and scenic, delays and strikes are not uncommon. That said, trains remain a convenient option for reaching Paris from many major European cities. The city is served by several major train stations, each connected to different regions and countries:

• Gare du Nord – Eurostar from London, Thalys from Brussels & Amsterdam

• Gare de Lyon – Trains from the south of France, Switzerland, Italy

• Gare Montparnasse – Trains from Brittany and the west of France

• Gare Saint-Lazare – Normandy and northwest France

• Gare de l’Est – Eastern France, Germany, Luxembourg

These stations are all located within the city, with easy connections to the Paris Metro and bus systems.

🚗 Should You Drive to Paris?

If you’re planning to visit Paris by car… reconsider. Paris is not a car-friendly city. Between heavy traffic, expensive parking, strict emissions zones, and frequent street closures, driving in Paris can be more frustrating than convenient.

Instead, park outside the city in a secure lot (like in La Défense or Vincennes) and take the RER or Metro into central Paris. Once you’re in the city, you’ll find that public transport and walking are the best ways to get around.

Traffic in Paris in the Sacré-Cœur Area.
Photo by DiscoA340 under licence CC BY-SA 4.0

Metro station “Pigalle”
Photo by Dietmar Rabich under licence CC BY-SA 4.0

🚇 The Paris Metro

The Paris Métro is the fastest and most efficient way to get around the city. With 16 metro lines and over 300 stations, you’re never far from an entrance. Trains run regularly from early morning (around 5:30 AM) until around 12:30 AM, and even later on weekends.

To use the métro, you’ll need a rechargeable Navigo Easy card, which can be loaded with individual rides or day passes. These cards are inexpensive and can be purchased at metro stations or online. If you’re staying for a week, the Navigo Découverte weekly pass is also a great option for unlimited travel.

While efficient, the metro isn’t always the most comfortable. It can get crowded, especially during rush hours, and pickpocketing is a real concern, particularly around popular lines and tourist stops like Châtelet or Gare du Nord. Stay alert and keep your belongings secure.

Planning to arrive or leave by plane?
From Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG), you can take the RER B train directly into the city, stopping at major stations like Gare du Nord and Châtelet-Les Halles. From Orly Airport, there’s no direct RER or metro, but the Orlyval light train connects you to the RER B at Antony station, or you can take the Tram T7 and transfer to Metro Line 7. Both options are budget-friendly and commonly used by locals and travelers alike.

🚌 Buses

Paris buses are often overlooked by tourists, but they offer a more scenic and relaxing way to explore the city. Buses run on an extensive network and are a great option if you want to enjoy views of Parisian streets and landmarks while getting from place to place.

Tickets are the same as for the metro and transfers are allowed within a 90-minute window. Just keep in mind that buses can be slower during peak traffic times, but they’re great for short to medium distances and neighborhoods not well served by the metro.

Bus transport in Paris and Île-de-France.
Photo by PR180.2 under licence CC BY-SA 2.0

Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Montmatre
Photo by Terragio67 under licence CC BY-SA 4.0

🚶 Walking

Paris is made for walking. Many of the city’s most iconic districts, like the Latin Quarter, Le Marais, or Montmartre, are best explored on foot. You’ll find hidden courtyards, charming side streets, and unexpected viewpoints that no tour bus will ever show you.

Distances between attractions are often shorter than you think, and walking lets you experience the rhythm of local life. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes, as the cobblestone streets and occasional hills (especially in Montmartre) can be tiring.

🚕 Taxis and Ride-Sharing

Taxis are available throughout Paris, but they can be difficult to hail on the street, especially during peak hours or bad weather. It’s often better to go to a designated taxi stand or use a ride-hailing app like Uber, Bolt, or Free Now.

Prices can be higher than public transportation, and traffic in Paris can be unpredictable. For early-morning airport transfers or late-night returns, however, taxis and ride-shares remain a good backup option.

Taxis in Paris
Photo by (WT-shared) Riggwelter under licence CC BY-SA 4.0

Eiffel Tower
Photo by Medium69 under licence CC BY-SA 4.0

1. Eiffel Tower

No trip to Paris is complete without seeing the Eiffel Tower up close.

Built in 1889 for the World’s Fair, it has become the symbol of the city and one of the most visited monuments in the world. Standing 330 meters tall, the tower offers panoramic views over Paris from its different levels.

You can enjoy the view from the first and second floors, or go all the way to the summit for a truly breathtaking perspective. Beneath the tower, the Champ de Mars is the perfect place for a picnic or a photo session, especially at sunset.

In the evening, the Eiffel Tower puts on a sparkling light show every hour after dark, creating a magical atmosphere. Whether you admire it from the Trocadéro gardens, cruise past it on the Seine, or dine in its restaurant, the Eiffel Tower never fails to impress.

Tickets: toureiffel.paris.

Useful Info:

• Summit access is by elevator only from the second floor.
• Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak travel months.

2. Louvre Museum

The Louvre is not just a museum; it’s a global cultural landmark.

Home to the Mona Lisa, the Venus de Milo, and over 35,000 other works of art, it spans centuries of history and artistic expression. Located in a former royal palace, the Louvre itself is an architectural masterpiece, with the modern glass pyramid contrasting beautifully with its classical facade.

Inside, you’ll find Egyptian mummies, Greek sculptures, medieval treasures, and Renaissance masterpieces. A visit can easily take a full day, and guided tours or audio guides are highly recommended to get the most out of your experience.

Whether you’re an art enthusiast or just curious, the Louvre is a must-see that offers something for everyone. Don’t forget to explore the surrounding Jardin des Tuileries and enjoy a coffee nearby after your visit.

Tickets: louvre.fr.

Useful Info: Booking ahead is required. Closed on Tuesdays.

Mona Lisa, by Leonardo da Vinci

Notre Dame de Paris
Photo by Sanchezn under licence CC BY-SA 3.0

3. Notre-Dame Cathedral

After years of restoration following the devastating 2019 fire, Notre-Dame Cathedral officially reopened to the public in December 2024.

This iconic Gothic masterpiece has been lovingly restored to its former glory, with meticulous attention to its intricate stone carvings, stained glass windows, and towering spires. Located on the Île de la Cité, Notre-Dame is a spiritual and architectural heart of Paris, attracting millions of visitors each year.

Now, visitors can once again admire the awe-inspiring nave, the grand organ, and the beautiful rose windows from inside the cathedral. Outside, the famous gargoyles, flying buttresses, and historic surroundings add to the grandeur of the experience.

The surrounding area is equally captivating. You can stroll along the Seine, explore the charming Latin Quarter, and stop by the iconic Shakespeare & Company bookstore just across the river. The nearby Square Jean XXIII behind the cathedral offers a peaceful view of the newly restored apse.

Tickets: Entrance to the cathedral is free. Guided tours are available and highly recommended to better understand the cathedral’s history and architecture.

Useful Info: Climbing the towers (for panoramic views) requires a timed entry ticket available at www.notredamedeparis.fr. Security checks are in place, arrive early to avoid long waits.

4. Montmartre & Sacré-Cœur

Montmartre is a hilltop neighborhood that feels like a village within the city.

At its summit, the gleaming white Basilica of the Sacré-Cœur offers one of the best panoramic views of Paris. Wander the cobblestone streets, enjoy a coffee at a sidewalk café, or have your portrait sketched at Place du Tertre.

Tickets: Entry to Sacré-Cœur is free. The dome and crypt require separate tickets, available on-site.

Useful Info: Visit early in the morning or at sunset for fewer crowds and better light.

Place du Tertre
Photo by KimonBerlin under licence CC BY-SA 2.0

Arc de Triomphe

5. Champs-Élysées & Arc de Triomphe

The Champs-Élysées is perhaps the most famous avenue in the world, stretching from the Place de la Concorde to the Arc de Triomphe.

Lined with luxury boutiques and historic cafés, it captures the essence of Parisian elegance. At its western end, the Arc de Triomphe stands proudly as a monument to French military victories and honors those who fought and died for France.

You can climb its 284 steps to reach the panoramic terrace, where the view of the city’s grand boulevards is unforgettable.

Tickets: monuments-nationaux.fr.

Useful Info: Tickets are required to access the viewing terrace. Entry is free for EU citizens under 26.

6. Palace of Versailles (Day trip)

Located just 40 minutes from Paris by train, the Palace of Versailles is a dazzling example of French opulence and grandeur.

Once the seat of King Louis XIV and the French monarchy, Versailles is renowned for its lavish Hall of Mirrors, royal apartments, and sprawling gardens. The palace grounds include fountains, sculptures, and charming hidden gems like the Petit Trianon and Marie Antoinette’s Hamlet.

Tickets:  chateauversailles.fr.

Useful Info: Arrive early to avoid crowds and consider renting an audio guide or booking a guided tour.

Château de Versailles
Photo by Luis Miguel Bugallo Sánchez (Lmbuga) under licence CC BY-SA 4.0

Orsay Museum

7. Musée d’Orsay

Its vast collection includes works by Monet, Manet, Van Gogh, Degas, Renoir, and Cézanne, among many others. The layout is airy and easy to navigate, and the giant clock windows overlooking the Seine are an attraction in themselves.

Tickets: musee-orsay.fr.

Useful Info:Closed on Mondays. Entry is free on the first Sunday of each month.

8. Seine River Cruise

A cruise on the Seine River offers a different perspective of Paris: one that’s both peaceful and photogenic.

Boats depart regularly from locations like the Eiffel Tower and Pont Neuf, offering day or night cruises with commentary in multiple languages.

As you glide down the river, you’ll pass some of Paris’s most iconic landmarks: Notre-Dame, the Louvre, Musée d’Orsay, and of course, the Eiffel Tower sparkling at night.

Dinner cruises are also available, providing gourmet meals with live music and candlelight.

Whether you’re on your first visit or returning to rediscover the city, a Seine cruise is one of the most relaxing and scenic experiences Paris has to offer.

Tickets:

• bateauxparisiens.com
• vedettesdupontneuf.com.

Useful Info: Choose a window seat for the best views.

Bateau-mouche waiting for the tourists Paris 8e
Photo by Moonik under licence CC BY-SA 3.0

La Sainte-Chapelle
Photo by Uoaei1 under licence CC BY-SA 4.0

9. Sainte-Chapelle

Tucked away on the Île de la Cité, Sainte-Chapelle is a Gothic jewel often missed by first-time visitors.

Built in the 13th century by King Louis IX to house holy relics, the chapel is most famous for its stunning stained glass windows.

Fifteen towering panels illustrate over 1,000 biblical scenes, and when the sunlight pours through, the interior becomes a kaleidoscope of color.

The lower chapel is reserved and quiet, while the upper chapel stuns with its height and vibrancy.

It’s a spiritual and artistic experience like no other, often described as stepping inside a piece of sacred light.

Be sure to check opening hours and arrive early to avoid long lines.

Tickets: sainte-chapelle.fr.

Useful Info: Included in the Paris Museum Pass. Expect a security check at entry.

10. Père Lachaise Cemetery

Far from being a gloomy destination, Père Lachaise Cemetery is one of Paris’s most poetic and reflective places.

Spanning 44 hectares, it feels more like a peaceful park than a cemetery. Winding paths, tall trees, and ivy-covered tombs give it a dreamlike atmosphere. It’s the final resting place of numerous cultural icons including Jim Morrison, Oscar Wilde, Édith Piaf, Chopin, and Marcel Proust.

Visitors often leave tributes at these famous graves, and guided tours are available to help you navigate the maze of notable figures. It’s also a great place to enjoy a quiet walk and contemplate the city’s artistic legacy away from the crowds.

Tickets: Entry is free.

Useful Info: Maps are available at the entrance. Open daily, but closing hours vary seasonally.

Père Lachaise
Photo by Peter Poradisch under licence CC BY-SA 3.0

Canal Saint-Martin
Photo by JLPC under licence CC BY-SA 3.0

Canal Saint-Martin

Escape the crowds of central Paris and stroll along the peaceful Canal Saint-Martin, a favorite among locals.

With its iron footbridges, shady trees, and laid-back vibe, this area offers a more authentic glimpse into Parisian life.

You’ll find trendy cafés, vintage shops, and art galleries lining the canal.

It’s the perfect place for a picnic or a relaxed afternoon walk, especially around sunset when the light reflects beautifully on the water.

La Butte-aux-Cailles

Hidden in the 13th arrondissement, La Butte-aux-Cailles feels like a small village within the city.

This charming neighborhood is known for its colorful street art, cobblestone alleys, and relaxed bars.

It’s a great spot to experience a bohemian side of Paris without the tourist crowds.

Grab a crêpe from a local vendor or sip natural wine at a cozy terrace.

La Butte-aux-Cailles
Photo by JLPC under licence CC BY-SA 3.0

Parc des Buttes Chaumont

Parc des Buttes-Chaumont

One of Paris’s most unusual and scenic parks, the Parc des Buttes-Chaumont offers cliffs, waterfalls, a suspension bridge, and a temple perched on a hill.

It’s a favorite among locals for weekend strolls and picnics, and offers dramatic views over the city, especially at sunset.

Located in the 19th arrondissement, it’s less manicured than the more formal parks like Luxembourg or Tuileries, which gives it a wild and romantic charm.

Le Procope

Established in 1686, Le Procope is considered the oldest café in Paris.

This iconic spot in the heart of Saint-Germain-des-Prés was once frequented by Voltaire, Rousseau, and Napoleon.

Today, it still serves traditional French cuisine in an atmosphere that blends history and elegance. If you’re in the mood for coq au vin or escargots, this is the place.

We recommend: The Coq au vin and the tiramisu are so good!

Address: 13 Rue de l’Ancienne Comédie, 75006 Paris

Website: procope.com

Le Procope
Photo by Jean-Marie Hullot under licence CC BY-SA 2.0