The local take
In the 1st and 2nd arrondissements, glass-roofed passages, a grand old library and centuries-old churches sit a short walk apart, while the Marais tucks quiet gardens behind its mansions. When you need air, do as Parisians do: pétanque or chess under the trees in a formal garden, or a picnic and a long run in the big woods at the city's edge.
Evenings bring live shows, comedy in English among them, and high viewpoints worth timing for dusk. Day trips reach vineyards, grand châteaux and white sea cliffs. Each place is recommended by our local guides, with tips on what to look for when you get there.
MuseumsMusée d’Orsay
Inside the former Gare d’Orsay train station on the Seine is one of the largest impressionist collections in the world.
Paris, 7th arrondissementRecommended by Jess T.
Historic LandmarkViewpointsArc de Triomphe
If there’s one spot to admire the sparkling Eiffel Tower at dusk, it’s from atop the Arc de Triomphe — however, at any time of day, you’re blessed with 360-degree views of Paris.
Paris, 17th arrondissementRecommended by Mathilde D.
Historic LandmarkBibliothèque Nationale de France Richelieu
One of a few Bibliothèque Nationale de France locations in Paris, the BNF Richelieu is our guide’s personal favorite.
Paris, 2nd arrondissementRecommended by Jess T.
ParksHikesBois de Vincennes Loop
Inside one of Paris’s largest green spaces, Bois de Vincennes Loop is an 8.5-mile trail that circles the entire park.
Paris, 12th arrondissementRecommended by Jessica D.
MuseumsBourse de Commerce
This historic commercial exchange building has hosted different trades over the years but is currently dedicated to the Pinault Collection.
Paris, 1st arrondissementRecommended by Jessica D.
MuseumsCarnavalet Museum
If you want to learn more about Paris’s history, the Carnavalet Museum in the Marais district is a well-liked stop.
Paris, Le MaraisRecommended by Jess T.
Day TripsChampagne
Did you know that Champagne (the bubbly beverage) is technically only considered real Champagne if it is grown and cultivated in the vineyards of Champagne Province — a two-hour…
ParisRecommended by Mathilde D.
Historic LandmarkDay TripsChâteau de Chantilly
Château de Chantilly is a storied landmark where the Oise meets the Seine River.
ParisRecommended by Caroline B.
Religious LandmarksChurch of Saint-Germain-des-Prés
This 1,000-year-old church is famous for its Romanesque and Gothic architecture, particularly the bell tower and grand arches outside.
Paris, Saint-Germain-des-PrésRecommended by Caroline B.
Historic LandmarkCimetière de Montmartre
Also known as Cimetière du Nord, this cemetery is not the largest in Paris, but arguably its most famous.
Paris, MontmartreRecommended by Caroline B.
MuseumsCité de l’architecture et du patrimoine
The French Monuments Museum inside the Palais de Chaillot has hundreds of models depicting famous Parisian landmarks like Notre-Dame and residential buildings like Unité…
Paris, 16th arrondissementRecommended by Caroline B.
Day TripsDisneyland Paris
The only European location of the iconic amusement park brand, Disneyland Paris is just an hour from the city center.
ParisRecommended by Jessica D.
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