Paris city breaks
Paris is beautiful, there’s no arguing with that. But don’t be fooled into thinking it’s just a living museum, it is so much more than that. Paris is an exciting, vibrant city with so much going on you’ll need to go back several times just to scratch the surface. So, whether you’re planning your first ever city break to Paris, you’re going back for another weekend in Paris, or you fancy something a little longer we’ve got your essentials for planning your next Parisian adventure in our guide to Paris holidays.
The best way to get a feel for Paris is to walk around, and it is a very walkable city. You’ll be able to see the best sites, attractions and museums, as well as discover quirky and interesting neighbourhoods all in one Paris weekend break. But after one trip, we know you’ll be planning your next Paris break for as soon as possible.
So, ditch the guidebook and discover something different, it’s the perfect place for an idle wander. Browse quirky shop windows, stop for lunch and some people-watching, then take in a gallery to work up an appetite for dinner.
Our favourite feast? Picnicking like a true Parisian, with cheese, wine and a fresh baguette served on the banks of the Seine at sunset.
Discover our guide to Paris city breaks and book your next Parisian adventure.
Top things to do on a Paris break
What to do in Paris?
If you're on a first visit from London to Paris you'll probably want to cram as many sights into your time as possible, have a look at our 3-day itinerary for inspiration. No trip to Paris would be complete without a visit to the Eiffel Tower, but planning is crucial to make the most of your visit. Buy your tickets online to avoid the queues and look out for the secret apartment on the third floor.
Wandering through the Parisian neighbourhoods
Paris is full of charming neighbourhoods and the trendy Marais is well worth a visit. Known for its gothic architecture and charming cafes, you’ll find plenty of things to explore. Don’t forget to explore Père-Lachaise Cemetery where you’ll see the famous tombs of Oscar Wilde and Frederic Chopin.
Where to stay in Paris
Paris is simply perfect to be walked – you really don’t want to spend too much of your Paris weekend break, or Paris city break on public transport. So when choosing where to stay in Paris, it’s a nice idea to consider what you want to do on your break and try and choose a hotel or apartment close to your favoured attractions and within walking distance of the places at the top of your Paris wish-list.
Must-see museums and attractions
If you plan on spending a weekend in Paris immersing yourself in some of the world’s most famous museums and attractions you really are spoilt for choice. The world-famous Louvre museum is a feast for the eyes with 350,000 artefacts and of course the Mona Lisa. But there are other spectacular museums too, like the beautiful Rodin museum. Showcasing the sculptures and lifework of French artist Auguste Rodin, it contains nearly 400 pieces of art, including the most famous of Rodin’s sculptures, The Thinker.
Places to eat and drink in Paris
In Paris, there are plenty of food options to suit every taste and budget. With scenic views of the Canal Saint-Martin, the Paname Brewing Company offers a good mixture of beer, burgers and snacks. You can also try brews by Brasserie de la Goutte d'Or, Deck & Donohue and BapBap. If wine and cheese is more your thing, check out La Grande Crèmerie in St Germain.
Getting around the city
It is easy and convenient to get around Paris by metro, RER and bus. The Paris Pass gives you free unlimited travel on the Metro, RER and bus as well as free entry to some of the main museums and attractions. For longer stretches across the city, taking the RER is your best option.
Best time to visit Paris
Paris holidays are perfect at any time of the year. Whichever season you choose to wander down the city’s boulevards you’ll find something new – even for seasoned Paris travellers.
Spring sees the city in full bloom with its stunning parks and gardens promising a fantastic getaway for family picnics and lazy days, while people watching in cafes truly becomes an art form at this time of year. There are always plenty of things to see and do in and around the city during a Parisian summer. To get your sun-fix head down to Paris Plages on the banks of Seine, or simply relax in one of the city’s many fantastic green open spaces. And if you plan to shop till you drop, there’s plenty of bargains to be had in the city’s summer sales.
As the autumn leaves break out across the city, the pace of Paris begins to slow down from the busy summer season making this an ideal time for a Paris city break. As the temperatures drop, while away a few hours exploring the city’s many districts, head inside to one of the numerous world famous museums or brave the catacombs.
Wow, Paris in winter really is something else. The Christmas lights will sparkle, Disneyland Paris promises magic and fun for all the family, while the city’s department stores really are a must-see in the run up to Christmas.
Spring breaks in Paris
Paris's parks, gardens and museums come alive in spring.
Summer in Paris
All the best things to do in Paris in summer
Paris in autumn
See Paris in a different light during the autumn season.
Paris in winter
Hot cocoa and Christmas window displays...there's plenty of reasons to visit Paris in the winter.
Best places to eat, shop and stay
Where to eat in Paris
Paris is full of tasty places to eat - but where to go? Check out our handy list.
Best places to shop in Paris
Paris has no shortage of designer and wallet-friendly shops.
Finding the best place to stay in Paris
An easy guide by district to help you decide on the best place to stay on your city break.
Living it up in Paris on a 5-star break
Treat yourself to a bit of Parisian glamour.
You may also like
Things to do in Paris
Paris is full of iconic sights. Here are your must-see attractions.
Fun things to do in Paris with kids
Paris has plenty of things to do on a city break with kids.
Romantic things to do in Paris
Romance can get stressful if you don't know where to go. Use this handy guide to help you.
Paris Expat Guide
From katsu sandwiches to concept stores, here are the best new spots for your next visit.
Two days in Paris
A 2-day itinerary to help you make the most out of your stay in Paris.
3 days in Paris
A 3-day itinerary including ideas, tips and addresses to get the most out of your stay
The top sights to see in Paris
The absolute must-see sights to visit on a first trip to Paris.
Feel-good breaks in Paris
When you need some down time to focus on feeling good.
Paris’s best rooftop bars
From live music to craft cocktails, Paris is moving up in the world.
Guinguettes a-go-go
Kick up your heels and join the dance in Paris’s charming guinguettes
Eco-friendly hotels and city breaks in Paris
You can still be green, even when you're visiting a big city
Book your Paris holiday
Image credits: © Eurostar; © Eurostar; © Shutterstock; © Getty; © Picasso; © Terrass Hotel; © Imagesource; © Shutterstock; © Shutterstock; © Getty; © Jose Duarte da Silva Rocha; © Shutterstock; © Shutterstock; © Shutterstock; © Eurostar; © Eurostar; © Shutterstock; © david haffen; © Samot via Shutterstock; © Ekaterina Pokrovsky via Shutterstock; © Shutterstock; © Alamy; © Shutterstock; © Shutterstock