Paris (France) City Breaks

Paris: A City Break Filled with Unforgettable Experiences

Paris offers a plethora of activities for visitors on a city break, ranging from culinary adventures to unique tours and cultural experiences. Here’s an in-depth guide to 20 exciting activities to enjoy in the City of Light, including wet weather alternatives.

Culinary Adventures

1. Wine Tasting Tour

Immerse yourself in France’s renowned wine culture with a guided tasting tour. Sample exquisite wines from various regions while learning about their production and history. This activity typically lasts around 120 minutes and costs from 69 EUR per person2.

2. Baking Class

Learn the art of French pastry-making in a hands-on baking class. Perfect your croissant-making skills or master the delicate macaron. Classes usually last about 2.5 hours and cost around 104 EUR per person2.

3. Gourmet Food Tour

Explore Paris’s culinary scene with a guided food tour. Sample local delicacies, visit markets, and discover hidden gastronomic gems. This is an excellent way to experience Parisian cuisine like a local.

Unique Tours

4. Paris Beer Bike

Pedal your way through Paris while enjoying a cold beer on the Paris Beer Bike. This 1-hour experience allows groups of up to 10 to explore iconic sights like the Eiffel Tower and Arc de Triomphe while sipping on included drinks3.

5. Craft Beer Tasting Walking Tour

Discover Paris’s thriving craft beer scene on a 3-hour walking tour. Visit three local craft beer bars, sampling two taster beers at each location while learning about France’s brewing history3.

6. Seine River Cruise

Take a relaxing cruise along the Seine River, offering unique perspectives of Paris’s landmarks. Opt for a lunch or dinner cruise for a delightful meal as you glide past the city’s famous sights4.

7. Segway Tour

Glide through Paris’s streets on a Segway tour, covering more ground than a walking tour while enjoying the open air. This is an exciting way to see the city’s highlights.

Group Activities

8. Escape Room Challenge

Test your problem-solving skills with friends or colleagues in one of Paris’s many escape rooms. This indoor activity is perfect for rainy days and great for team building5.

9. Group Cooking Class

Participate in a group cooking class led by a Michelin-starred chef. Start with ingredient sourcing at a local market before creating extraordinary dishes in the chef’s workshop5.

10. Quiz Room

Challenge your knowledge in a Quiz Room, where you can participate in a game show-like experience with your group. This is an excellent indoor activity for all ages8.

Outdoor Adventures

11. Run the City

See Paris from a new perspective with an early morning group run past iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, the Seine, and the Louvre5.

12. Bicycle Tour

Explore Paris on two wheels with a guided bicycle tour. This eco-friendly option allows you to cover more ground while enjoying the city’s beautiful streets and parks.

13. Montmartre Art Walk

Take a stroll around the famous Montmartre district to see street art and local painters. This free activity is a wonderful way to explore Paris’s rich culture2.

Wet Weather Alternatives

14. Spa Afternoon

Indulge in massages, hammam experiences, or facial treatments at a Parisian spa. This is a perfect way to relax and rejuvenate on a rainy day5.

15. Board Game Café

Visit a board game café for a cosy and fun indoor activity. With hundreds of games to choose from, it’s a perfect way to spend time with friends while staying dry.

16. Virtual Reality Experience

Immerse yourself in cutting-edge technology with a virtual reality experience. Many VR centres in Paris offer group sessions and games, providing an exciting indoor activity.

17. Indoor Rock Climbing

Challenge yourself and your friends with indoor rock climbing. This activity offers a great workout and plenty of fun, regardless of the weather outside.

Evening Entertainment

18. Guided Bar Crawl

Experience Paris’s vibrant nightlife with a guided bar crawl. Enjoy complimentary beers and guestlist entry into popular bars5.

19. Cabaret Show

Attend a dazzling cabaret show at one of Paris’s famous venues like the Moulin Rouge. This quintessential Parisian experience combines music, dance, and spectacle.

20. Night Photography Tour

Capture Paris’s beauty after dark with a night photography tour. Learn techniques for low-light photography while exploring the city’s illuminated landmarks.

From culinary adventures to unique tours and indoor activities, Paris offers a diverse range of experiences to suit all interests and weather conditions. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, or cultural immersion, this charming city has something for everyone on a city break.

Paris: A Tapestry of Must-See Attractions

Paris, the City of Light, offers an unparalleled array of historical landmarks, cultural institutions, and iconic sights. Here’s an in-depth guide to 20 must-visit points of interest for your Parisian city break.

1. Eiffel Tower

The quintessential symbol of Paris, the Eiffel Tower stands 276 metres tall and offers breathtaking views of the city. Visitors can access all three levels, either by stairs or lift. For a truly magical experience, visit at night when the tower sparkles with thousands of lights.

2. Louvre Museum

Home to the world-famous Mona Lisa, the Louvre is the most visited art museum globally. Housed in a former royal palace, its collection spans over 35,000 works of art. The glass pyramid entrance, designed by I.M. Pei, is an architectural marvel in its own right.

3. Notre-Dame Cathedral

Despite the devastating fire in 2019, Notre-Dame remains a must-see. As of 2025, the cathedral has reopened after extensive renovations, showcasing its Gothic architecture and stunning stained-glass windows. Visitors must now book free tickets in advance due to high demand.

4. Arc de Triomphe

Standing proudly at the western end of the Champs-Élysées, this triumphal arch offers panoramic views of Paris from its rooftop. The monument honours those who fought for France, particularly during the Napoleonic Wars.

5. Sacré-Cœur Basilica

Perched atop Montmartre hill, this white-domed church offers one of the best viewpoints in Paris. Its Byzantine-inspired architecture and intricate mosaics make it a visual feast both inside and out.

6. Musée d’Orsay

Housed in a former railway station, this museum boasts an impressive collection of Impressionist art. Works by Monet, Van Gogh, and Renoir are among the highlights. The building’s grand clock is a favourite photo spot for visitors.

7. Centre Pompidou

This inside-out building, with its exposed pipes and ducts, is a masterpiece of modern architecture. It houses a vast collection of contemporary art and offers panoramic views from its rooftop.

8. Palace of Versailles

Located just outside Paris, this opulent château showcases the extravagance of French royalty. The Hall of Mirrors and the meticulously manicured gardens are particular highlights.

9. Sainte-Chapelle

This Gothic chapel boasts some of the most beautiful stained-glass windows in the world. The upper chapel, with its 15-metre high windows depicting biblical scenes, is truly awe-inspiring.

10. Les Invalides

This complex of buildings houses museums and monuments relating to France’s military history. The golden dome of the Church of the Dome, which contains Napoleon’s tomb, is a prominent feature of the Parisian skyline.

11. Panthéon

Originally built as a church, this neoclassical building now serves as a mausoleum for distinguished French citizens. Its crypt houses the remains of luminaries such as Voltaire, Rousseau, and Marie Curie.

12. Jardin du Luxembourg

These beautiful gardens offer a tranquil escape from the bustling city. Visitors can admire the fountains, statues, and flowerbeds, or simply relax on one of the iconic green chairs.

13. Musée de l’Orangerie

Located in the Tuileries Gardens, this museum is famous for housing Monet’s large-scale Water Lilies paintings. The oval rooms were designed specifically to showcase these masterpieces.

14. Père Lachaise Cemetery

This sprawling cemetery is the final resting place of many famous figures, including Oscar Wilde and Jim Morrison. Its Gothic tombs and tree-lined avenues make for a hauntingly beautiful walk.

15. Opéra Garnier

This opulent opera house exemplifies the grandeur of the Second Empire style. The grand staircase and the ceiling painted by Marc Chagall are particularly noteworthy.

16. Catacombs of Paris

These underground ossuaries hold the remains of millions of Parisians. The eerie tunnels, lined with carefully arranged bones and skulls, offer a unique and somewhat macabre experience.

17. Place des Vosges

The oldest planned square in Paris, this elegant space is surrounded by identical red-brick houses. It’s a perfect spot for a picnic or to admire the beautiful architecture.

18. Musée Carnavalet

Dedicated to the history of Paris, this recently renovated museum offers a fascinating journey through the city’s past. It’s housed in two magnificent mansions in the Marais district.

19. Petit Palais

This beautiful Beaux-Arts building houses the City of Paris Museum of Fine Arts. Its collection includes works from antiquity to the early 20th century, and entry to the permanent collections is free.

20. Montparnasse Tower

While not as aesthetically pleasing as other Parisian landmarks, this skyscraper offers arguably the best views of Paris – including the Eiffel Tower. The observation deck on the 56th floor provides a 360-degree panorama of the city.

From iconic monuments to hidden gems, these 20 points of interest offer a comprehensive exploration of Paris’s rich history, stunning architecture, and world-class art. Each site provides a unique glimpse into the city’s past and present, ensuring a memorable and diverse city break experience.

Food and Drink in Paris: A Culinary Journey

Paris, the gastronomic capital of the world, offers an unparalleled culinary experience for visitors on a city break. From traditional bistros to innovative vegan eateries, the city caters to all tastes and budgets.

Traditional French Cuisine

Parisian cuisine is renowned for its rich flavours and exquisite presentation. Must-try dishes include:

• French Baguette: A source of national pride, perfect with cheese or on its own
• Authentic Cheeses: Brie, Camembert, and Roquefort are local favourites
• Steak Frites: A classic bistro dish of steak and crispy fries
• French Onion Soup: A hearty starter, especially comforting in colder months
• Croque Monsieur: A delicious grilled ham and cheese sandwich

Average Prices

• Pint of Beer: 5-10 euros, depending on the establishment
• Meal for Two: In a mid-range restaurant, expect to pay around 50-80 euros for a three-course meal without drinks5

Best Restaurants

1. Café des Musées: Known for its excellent beef Bourguignon
2. La Mediterranée: A historic bistro with a well-aged patina
3. Chez Georges: A classic Parisian brasserie experience
4. La Closerie des Lilas: A former haunt of artists and writers, now offering fine dining

Atmosphere

Parisian dining is characterised by its leisurely pace and appreciation for good food. Bistros and brasseries offer casual, affordable options with plenty of charm and history4. For a truly local experience, enjoy the ritual of “apéro” – a pre-dinner drink often accompanied by light snacks.

Vegetarian and Vegan Options

While traditionally meat-heavy, Paris has embraced plant-based dining in recent years. Notable options include:

• Vyro: Offers vegan versions of traditional French dishes
• Namaste: Indian restaurant with a wide range of vegan options
• Herbs Organic Kitchen: Serves vegan platters and Nepalese dishes

Wine and Beer Tasting

Paris offers numerous opportunities for wine and beer enthusiasts:

• Wine Tasting: Many tours offer tastings of French wines, often paired with cheese. The Latin Quarter is a popular area for such experiences3.
• Beer Tasting: The Paris Craft Beer Tasting Tour allows visitors to sample local brews at three different craft breweries5.
• Champagne Tasting: Day trips to the Champagne region offer the chance to taste various Champagnes and learn about the production process5.

Useful Tips for Visitors

1. Lunch is typically served from 12:00 to 14:00, and dinner from 19:30 onwards.
2. Many restaurants close between lunch and dinner service.
3. Service is usually included in restaurant bills, but rounding up for exceptional service is appreciated.
4. For an authentic experience, visit local markets like the traditional Mouffetard market in the Latin Quarter3.
5. Consider taking a cooking class to learn about French culinary traditions.
6. Don’t miss trying a classic French pastry like macarons or the Opéra cake6.

From traditional bistros to modern gastronomic temples, Paris offers a culinary adventure for every palate. Whether you’re savouring a classic French dish, exploring the burgeoning craft beer scene, or indulging in world-class wines, the city’s food and drink scene is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Paris: A Cultural Tapestry

Paris, the City of Light, offers visitors a rich cultural experience that blends centuries-old traditions with modern cosmopolitan flair. From its world-renowned art scene to its unique social customs, Paris provides an immersive journey into French culture.

Traditional Dress

While Parisians are known for their chic, modern style, elements of traditional French clothing can still be observed:

• The iconic beret, though not as common as stereotypes suggest, is still worn by some locals.
• Women often wear elegant scarves, a nod to traditional French fashion.
• For formal occasions, men may don tailored suits that reflect the refined elegance of French style.

It’s worth noting that Parisians generally dress well for all occasions. As David Lebovitz, an American chef in Paris, observed, Parisians might even put on pressed pants and a clean shirt to take out the garbage.

Art Scene

Paris’s art scene is unparalleled, offering a mix of classical and contemporary works:

• The Louvre, home to the Mona Lisa, showcases art from antiquity to the 19th century.
• Musée d’Orsay houses an impressive collection of Impressionist masterpieces.
• Centre Pompidou features modern and contemporary art in a striking architectural setting.
• Street art is prevalent in neighbourhoods like Le Marais, adding a contemporary edge to the city’s artistic landscape.

The Parisian Vibe

The atmosphere in Paris is a unique blend of sophistication, romance, and joie de vivre:

• Café culture is central to Parisian life, with locals often lingering over coffee or wine at sidewalk cafés.
• The city exudes a sense of elegance, from its grand boulevards to its manicured gardens.
• There’s a palpable appreciation for beauty, art, and the finer things in life.

Local Customs and Behaviour

Understanding Parisian social norms can greatly enhance your visit:

1. Greetings: Always begin interactions with “Bonjour” (or “Bonsoir” in the evening). This simple courtesy is crucial in shops, restaurants, and other establishments.
2. Public Behaviour: Parisians value discretion in public spaces. Keep your voice low on public transport and in restaurants.
3. Dining Etiquette: Meals are a leisurely affair. Don’t rush through your food, and avoid eating while walking down the street.
4. Language: While many Parisians speak English, attempting a few French phrases is greatly appreciated.
5. Fashion: Parisians dress well even for casual outings. Avoid overly casual attire like sweatpants or wrinkled clothing to blend in.

What Locals Do

To experience Paris like a local:

• Enjoy picnics in parks like the Jardin des Tuileries or along the Seine.
• Explore lesser-known neighbourhoods like Belleville or Canal Saint-Martin.
• Participate in cultural events, from art exhibitions to music festivals.
• Indulge in the ritual of “apéro”, a pre-dinner drink often accompanied by light snacks.

Useful Information for Visitors

1. Museums: Many museums offer free entry on the first Sunday of each month.
2. Tipping: Service is usually included in restaurant bills, but rounding up for exceptional service is appreciated.
3. Shopping: Many shops close on Sundays and for lunch between 1 PM and 3 PM.
4. Public Transport: The metro is an efficient way to navigate the city, but walking allows you to soak in the Parisian atmosphere.
5. Cultural Experiences: Consider taking a cooking class with a local chef to immerse yourself in French culinary traditions.

By embracing these cultural nuances, visitors can gain a deeper appreciation for the unique charm of Paris. From its artistic heritage to its social customs, Paris offers a cultural experience that is both enriching and unforgettable.

Transport to Paris from the UK and Around the City

Paris, the City of Light, is easily accessible from the UK and offers an extensive public transport system for visitors. This guide covers travel options to Paris and how to navigate the city during your stay.

Getting to Paris from the UK

By Train

The Eurostar provides a convenient and fast connection from London St Pancras International to Paris Gare du Nord. The journey takes approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes, making it an efficient option for travellers. Trains run regularly throughout the day, with 14 services operating daily as of 2025.

By Bus

For budget-conscious travellers, coaches offer an economical alternative. Services depart from London Victoria Coach Station, with journey times averaging 7 hours and 46 minutes. While slower than other options, bus travel can be significantly cheaper, with fares starting from as low as £19.

By Air

Flying is the quickest way to reach Paris from major UK cities. Approximate flight times are:

• London to Paris: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Birmingham to Paris: 1 hour 30 minutes (estimated)
• Manchester to Paris: 1 hour 40 minutes (estimated)

Several airlines operate frequent flights to Paris’s three international airports: Paris Charles de Gaulle, Paris Orly, and Paris Beauvais.

Transport in Paris

Paris boasts an extensive and efficient public transport network, making it easy for visitors to explore the city.

Metro

The Paris Metro is the fastest way to get around the city. With 16 lines and over 300 stations, it covers most of Paris. The metro operates from 5:30 AM to 1:15 AM (2:15 AM on Fridays and Saturdays). Stations are easily recognisable by the yellow letter “M” at the entrance.

RER (Regional Express Network)

The RER complements the metro system, with five lines (A to E) serving Paris and its suburbs. It’s particularly useful for reaching attractions outside the city centre, such as Disneyland Paris or Versailles.

Buses

Paris has an extensive bus network, ideal for scenic travel and reaching areas not covered by the metro. Buses generally run from 7 AM to 8:30 PM, with some lines operating until 12:30 AM. The Noctilien night bus service operates from 12:30 AM to 5:30 AM.

Trams

Paris has 13 tram lines serving the outskirts of the city and parts of Île-de-France. Trams are a comfortable way to travel in less central areas.

Taxis

Taxis are readily available in Paris, with ranks located at major points throughout the city. While more expensive than public transport, they offer convenience, especially for late-night travel.

Costs and Availability

Paris public transport is generally affordable and widely available. Some ticket options include:

• Single journey tickets
• Books of 10 tickets (carnet)
• Day passes
• Weekly or monthly passes

The Paris Visite Pass offers unlimited travel for 1, 2, 3, or 5 days, with options covering central Paris (zones 1-3) or the wider Île-de-France region (zones 1-5).

Useful Tips for Visitors

1. Consider purchasing a Navigo Easy pass for convenient travel across different transport modes.
2. Download the RATP app for real-time travel information and route planning.
3. Validate your ticket before boarding trains or upon entering buses.
4. Be aware of pickpockets, especially in crowded metro stations and tourist areas.
5. Some metro stations have long walks between lines, so allow extra time for connections.

By understanding and utilising Paris’s comprehensive transport system, visitors can easily and affordably explore all that this captivating city has to offer, from its iconic landmarks to its charming neighbourhoods.

Paris: Essential Information for Your City Break

Paris, the City of Light, offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and modern urban life. Here’s an in-depth guide to help you plan your city break to this captivating destination.

Currency and Language

Currency: Euro (€)
Languages: French is the official language. English is widely spoken in tourist areas and many establishments.

Airports and Transportation

Paris is served by three international airports:

1. Paris Orly (ORY): The closest to the city centre, located just 13 km south of Paris.
2. Paris Charles De Gaulle (CDG): The main international airport, situated 25 km northeast of Paris.
3. Paris Beauvais (BVA): Located 85 km north of Paris, primarily used by budget airlines.

Public transportation from all airports to the city centre is readily available, including buses, trains, and taxis.

Time Difference

Paris is in the Central European Time Zone (CET), which is GMT+1. During summer, it observes Central European Summer Time (CEST), which is GMT+2.

Climate and Average Temperatures

Paris experiences a temperate climate with distinct seasons:

• Spring (March to May): 7°C to 18°C
• Summer (June to August): 14°C to 28°C
• Autumn (September to November): 7°C to 20°C
• Winter (December to February): 1°C to 8°C

City Area

Paris covers approximately 105 square kilometres, offering a rich tapestry of historical and modern areas to explore.

Areas to Exercise Caution

While Paris is generally safe, visitors should be mindful in certain areas, particularly at night. Exercise caution around popular tourist spots and be aware of pickpockets in crowded areas and on public transport.

Dining, Nightlife, and Accommodation

Paris offers a diverse range of options for visitors:

• Restaurants: The city boasts over 100 Michelin-starred restaurants and countless eateries catering to all tastes and budgets.
• Bars: Paris’s vibrant nightlife scene includes numerous bars and cafes, especially in areas like Montmartre and the Latin Quarter.
• Hotels: Accommodation options range from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels, catering to all preferences and budgets.

Crime Rate

Paris has a relatively low crime rate compared to many other major European cities. However, as with any urban area, visitors should take standard precautions to ensure their safety.

Additional Important Information

1. Public Transport: Paris has an extensive public transport system including metro, RER trains, and buses. Consider purchasing a Navigo pass for unlimited travel.
2. Cultural Etiquette: Parisians appreciate politeness. It’s customary to greet shopkeepers with “Bonjour” when entering and leaving stores.
3. Museums and Attractions: Many popular attractions, like the Louvre and Eiffel Tower, require advance booking. The Paris Museum Pass can offer good value for avid sightseers.
4. Shopping: As a fashion capital, Paris offers excellent shopping opportunities, especially in areas like the Champs-Élysées.
5. Dining Hours: Lunch is typically served from 12:00 to 14:00, and dinner from 19:30 onwards. Many restaurants close between lunch and dinner service.
6. Tipping: Service is usually included in restaurant bills, but rounding up or leaving a small tip for exceptional service is appreciated.
7. Language: While many Parisians speak English, attempting a few basic French phrases is always appreciated.
8. Free Museums: Many museums offer free entry on the first Sunday of each month.

By considering these factors and embracing the local culture, visitors can fully enjoy the unique experiences that Paris has to offer, from its rich history to its modern, cosmopolitan atmosphere.