The Paris Metro is hailed as being one of the best in the world. It has around 300 stations, providing excellent coverage of the huge city. Open from 5am to 12.30pm, it will likely be your best transport option in Paris. If you travel regularly, it's worth investing in a Carte Orange: a pass that offers unlimited travel on the Metro and bus systems.
Hiring a car in Paris is perhaps not the best transport option. The traffic is terrible, and parking is even worse. However, there are plenty of taxis to get you around – you can find them at taxi stands, or simply hail them on the street. Surprisingly, they are a fairly cheap way of travelling around Paris.
Parisian buses have an excellent reputation for being clean and efficient. They run from 6.30am to 8.30pm, with a few buses running until 12.30am. Bus maps are available at Metro stations, where you can also get bus tickets. Buses are a great way to discover Paris. There are sights and landmarks at practically every turn in the city centre.
Enjoy the tourist experience of travelling up and down the famous Seine River by boat. The Batobus runs along the Seine with just six stops between the Eiffel Tower and the Quai de l'Hotel de Ville. However, be sure to check the schedule before you climb aboard – the Batobus only runs during warmer weather, between mid-April and mid-October.
Take a trip 20km outside of Paris to become immersed in a little slice of 16th century history. The Palace of Versailles is a royal chateau with a fascinating history, dating from the era of Louis XIV and the French Revolution. Recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Palace is simply stunning, and no trip to Paris is complete without a visit.
Check out the Mona Lisa's secret smile for yourself at one of the world's largest museums. On the Right Bank of the Seine, The Louvre is an impressive monument. The 12th century building began as a fortress, and is now the world's most visited art gallery. This magnificent facility requires at least half a day in order to do it justice.
Paris has certainly been home to more than its fair share of writers, poets, and artists. Père Lachaise is more than just a graveyard. It's the final resting place of some of the greatest creative minds in living memory, including Oscar Wilde, Chopin, Jim Morrison, Balzac, and Proust. This is a must for any lover of the arts.
Who could travel to Paris and not indulge in some of its world famous wine and cheese? With a French wine and cheese tasting, not only will you indulge in a variety of the region's best food and drink, but you'll also learn a thing or two about wine pairing and wine appreciation from a top sommelier.
Start the day early with a street-side breakfast of coffee and croissants. Head to the Avenue des Champs Elysees to take in the Arc de Triomphe and Place de la Concorde. After a spot of lunch, walk towards the Cathedrale Notre-Dame before heading to the Left Bank for a chance to put your feet up in one of the bars. End the day with a River Seine cruise and a bistro dinner, before heading back to your hotel for a well-earned hot bath.
Head out of the city to the Palace of Versailles on the RER train. Its spectacular gardens and opulent decor have to be seen to be believed. Head back to town for a relaxing evening of traditional French fare in one of Paris' many Michelin-starred restaurants – and don't forget the desserts.
Head straight to the Louvre to avoid the crowds and catch the Mona Lisa in relative peace. If you only have half a day to spend in the gallery, pick the sections you wish to visit very carefully – it's truly enormous! Opt for a more relaxed afternoon by heading to the Montmartre quarter for an evening of wandering through Bohemian streets. Wind up the evening sampling the local wines in a Parisian bar.
Put aside the day to indulge in that famous Parisian pastime: shopping. Whether you go for flea markets, or high-end boutiques and department stores, Paris has got you covered. Where else to wind up your Parisian experience than with a trip to the Eiffel Tower? Take a slow walk down the Seine to reach your destination, and then take your time observing the views from the summit. If you want to really ‘do' the Eiffel tower, book in for dinner or drinks at Altitude 95 on the upper levels.
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Expedia Holidays > Paris Holidays
