Paris

The capital of France and heart of Île-de-France, featuring world-renowned landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame, and the Louvre Museum. Paris is an artistic, cultural, and architectural masterpiece that defines European elegance and attracts millions of visitors annually.

Things to do

• Eiffel Tower — Ascend this iconic iron lattice monument for panoramic views of Paris from the second or third floor, or enjoy a picnic on the Champ de Mars below.
• Louvre Museum — Explore the world's largest art museum housing over 38,000 works including the Mona Lisa and Venus de Milo in a former royal palace.
• Notre-Dame Cathedral — Visit this masterpiece of Gothic architecture on Île de la Cité, currently under restoration but viewable from outside with exhibits detailing its history.
• Musée d'Orsay — Discover Impressionist and Post-Impressionist masterworks in a converted railway station featuring works by Monet, Renoir, and Van Gogh.
• Sacré-Cœur Basilica — Climb to this white Romano-Byzantine basilica atop Montmartre for sweeping city views and a serene interior with stunning mosaics.
• Seine River Cruise — Take a boat tour along the Seine to see illuminated bridges, historic landmarks, and charming riverside neighborhoods from the water.
• Versailles Palace — Visit the opulent royal residence southwest of Paris featuring the Hall of Mirrors, manicured gardens, and lavish period rooms.

Food to try

• Croissant — A flaky, buttery pastry that is the quintessential French breakfast staple, best enjoyed fresh from a local boulangerie in the morning.
• Crêpes — Thin pancakes served sweet with Nutella and fruit or savory with ham and cheese, widely available from street vendors and dedicated crêperies.
• Coq au Vin — A classic French braise of chicken braised in red wine with mushrooms and pearl onions, representing traditional Parisian bistro cuisine.
• French Onion Soup — A hearty soup of caramelized onions topped with crusty bread and melted Gruyère cheese, historically sold at Les Halles market early mornings.
• Macarons — Delicate almond meringue cookies with ganache filling in countless flavors, a signature Parisian confection available from renowned shops like Ladurée.
• Steak Frites — Tender grilled steak served with golden French fries and béarnaise sauce, a staple of Parisian bistros and brasseries throughout the city.

Local customs & good to know

• Greet with courtesy — Always say 'Bonjour' when entering shops and 'Au revoir' when leaving, as Parisians value politeness and may find it rude if you don't greet shopkeepers.
• Respect café culture — Parisians linger in cafés for hours over coffee or wine; sitting at an outdoor terrace is an experience, not just a transaction, so avoid rushing.
• Dress appropriately — Parisians tend toward classic, well-fitted clothing in neutral colors; avoiding athletic wear and very casual attire helps you blend in and is considered more respectful.
• Use formal address — Use 'Madame' or 'Monsieur' rather than first names with strangers and service staff unless invited to do otherwise, reflecting French formality.