City guides / Paris
Paris travel guide
Museums, markets and a metro that makes a car pointless.
Île-de-France Region, France · Local currency EUR · Time zone Europe/Paris
Best time to visit Paris
Flights and hotels are cheapest in January, February, November. Expect to pay the most in May, June, July, August, December.
Post-holiday slow season.
Cold weather and fewer tourists.
Spring begins with mild temperatures.
Cherry blossoms attract visitors.
Tourist influx for late spring events.
Summer holidays start early.
Peak tourist season, lively atmosphere.
Many Parisians are on vacation, but tourists flock in.
Back to school, fewer crowds.
Mild weather, pleasant for exploration.
Autumn chill sets in, fewer tourists.
Festive season with Christmas markets.
Getting around Paris
Public transport
Public transport is very reliable, with a dense network of buses and the metro that run frequently (every 2-15 minutes) until around midnight. Tickets can be purchased at kiosks or via mobile apps.
Driving and parking (8/10 difficulty)
Parking is generally difficult and expensive in central Paris. It's recommended to use public transport, taxis, or rideshare services instead.
How locals get around
Locals often bike or use the metro. When on the metro, it's considered polite to give up your seat for elderly or disabled individuals and avoid loud conversations.
Local customs in Paris
Tipping
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory in Paris. A service charge is often included in your bill, but rounding up or leaving 5-10% for exceptional service is common.
What to wear
Parisians tend to dress stylishly and smartly. Casual attire is acceptable, but wearing nicer clothes is recommended, especially in restaurants and at religious sites like Notre-Dame where modest attire is required.
Cards and cash
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; however, it's advisable to carry some cash (around €20-€50) for small purchases and at markets.
Phrases worth knowing
- Bonjour
- — Hello; used when greeting anyone during the day.
- Merci
- — Thank you; essential for polite interactions.
- S'il vous plaît
- — Please; used when making requests.
- Où est ... ?
- — Where is ...?; useful for asking for directions.
- L'addition, s'il vous plaît
- — The bill, please; used when you're ready to pay at a restaurant.
Plan a Paris trip in a couple of minutes
Journi builds a day-by-day Paris itinerary around how you travel — stays, food near each day's activities, hidden gems and a packing list, with costs as you go.
Plan a trip to Paris