Traveling to Paris – Your Guide to Iconic Paris Landmarks
Traveling to Paris : Travel guide on what to do, where to stay, where to eat and what to see in Paris from a Paris Travel Planner. Let’s be honest—Paris is more than just a destination. It’s a dream. From sipping coffee at a sidewalk café to gazing at the Eiffel Tower at sunset, it’s everything a romantic European getaway should be. And if you’re an American planning your first trip, PARIS BY EMY is your ultimate travel partner to make that dream come true—without the guesswork, stress, or cookie-cutter itineraries.
Planning a Unique and Iconic Paris Trip
What sets PARIS BY EMY apart? Emy, the founder, lived in the United States for 5 years, so she truly understands the American mindset, travel expectations, and cultural nuances. That means you get the best of both worlds—a Parisian local with firsthand knowledge of what American travelers are looking for. Whether it’s your first time in Paris or your tenth, your personal Paris Trip Planner helps make your trip smoother, more personal, and way more enjoyable.
Personalized Paris Travel Itinerary
PARIS BY EMY specializes in creating custom-made itineraries just for you. No group tours or mass-produced plans here. PARIS BY EMY tailors every day to your interests.
Understanding Your Travel Goals in Paris
Are you a history buff? A foodie? A couple on a romantic escape? Before planning, PARIS BY EMY dives deep into your expectations and priorities. It’s your Paris, your way.
Budgeting for Your Paris Traveling
PARIS BY EMY will help you align your plans with your wallet. From luxury tours in Paris to charming affordable options, they make sure you enjoy Paris fully without overspending.
Iconic Private Tours for your Paris Travel
- PARIS BY EMY works with an exceptional network of high-end services, expertise, and professionalism. Emy is herself a licensed private tour guide in Paris with more than 1,000 hours of official guiding experience.
- Licensed guides have a national guiding card, which legally authorizes them to conduct guided tours inside museums, historical monuments, and cultural sites throughout France.
Traveling to Paris Options
Famous Landmarks in Paris
Eiffel Tower: Cliché? Maybe. Still breathtaking? Absolutely. Book your tickets in advance, especially if you’re heading to the summit.
Louvre Museum: Home to the Mona Lisa and thousands of other masterpieces. You’ll need at least a half-day to explore, but PARIS BY EMY will help you focus on what matters most to you.
Notre-Dame Cathedral: Even under restoration, this Gothic icon is worth a stop. Don’t miss the nearby Shakespeare & Company bookstore.
Paris Hidden Gems Only Locals Know
Canal Saint-Martin: Perfect for a lazy afternoon stroll or a cozy canal-side meal.
Les Halles district: A true Parisian street filled with restaurants, bakeries, fromageries, and that authentic local flair.
Montmartre Private Tour
Montmartre is one of the most picturesque and romantic districts of Paris, located on a hill. Originally a village outside the city walls, Montmartre retained its small-town charm even after becoming part of Paris in 1860. Its winding streets, staircases, and panoramic views give it a distinctive character unlike any other neighborhood in the city. Historically, Montmartre became famous in the late 19th and early 20th centuries as a hub for artists and bohemians. Renowned painters such as Pablo Picasso, Vincent van Gogh, Claude Monet, and Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec lived and worked there. Cafés and cabarets like the Moulin Rouge played a central role in shaping Parisian nightlife and artistic culture. At the top of the hill stands the Sacré-Cœur Basilica, built after the Franco-Prussian War.
Saint Germain Private Tour
Saint-Germain-des-Prés, located on the Left Bank of the Seine, is one of the oldest districts in Paris and has long been associated with intellectual life and literature. The area developed around the Abbey of Saint-Germain-des-Prés, founded in the 6th century, which remains one of the oldest churches in the city. During the 17th and 18th centuries, the district became a center for writers, philosophers, and publishers. In the 20th century, it gained international fame as the heart of existentialist thought. Thinkers such as Jean-Paul Sartre and Simone de Beauvoir were regulars at legendary cafés like Café de Flore and Les Deux Magots. Today, Saint-Germain-des-Prés blends history with elegance. It is known for its literary cafés, art galleries, antique shops, and fashion boutiques, while still retaining its intellectual and cultural spirit.
Le Marais Private Tour
Le Marais is one of Paris’s best-preserved historical districts, located across the 3rd and 4th arrondissements. Its name comes from the marshland (“marais”) that once covered the area. In the 16th and 17th centuries, it became a fashionable neighborhood for French nobility, with the Place des Vosges oldest square of Paris, who built grand private mansions known as hôtels particuliers. Many of its historic buildings now house museums, including the Musée Carnavalet (dedicated to the history of Paris) and the Musée Picasso. Le Marais is also known for its cultural diversity. It has long been the center of the Jewish community in Paris and, more recently, has become a vibrant hub for the LGBTQ+ community. Today, Le Marais combines historical heritage with modern life, featuring trendy shops, cafés, and cultural institutions.
Traveling to Paris : Best Tours of Paris
Custom Walking Tour of Paris with a Private Guide
Walk through Montmartre, Le Marais, or Saint-Germain with a passionate guide who brings history to life.
Paris Private Tour by Car with a Licensed Guide
To cover more grounds and for more comfort, choose a 4 hour driving tour to discover iconic Paris.
Signature Private Tour in Paris
Love art? Food? Literature? Choose a theme and go deep. PARIS BY EMY offers niche experiences curated just for you.
Food Tour in Paris and Wine Tastings
Experience Paris with your tastebuds. Cheese, wine, pastries—you name it, they make it delicious.
Traveling to Paris : Top Lodging Locations
Best Arrondissements for First-Timers
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1st & 4th (Louvre/Marais): Central and full of culture.
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7th (Eiffel Tower): Classic Paris vibes.
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5th (Latin Quarter): Bohemian and full of student energy.
Hotel vs. Airbnb
Hotels offer services and central locations, while Airbnbs provide a local-living experience. PARIS BY EMY helps you choose the perfect place to stay in Paris.
Recommendations for Every Budget
From boutique hotels to charming B&Bs, we have connections to suit every pocket.
Traveling to Paris : Where to Eat ?
Classic French Cuisine
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Le Comptoir du Relais: Rich, hearty, unforgettable.
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Bistrot Paul Bert: A classic steak-frites experience.
Best Bistros and Cafés
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Café de Flore: Iconic and perfect for people-watching.
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Chez Janou: A Marais gem with a killer pastis collection.
Budget-Friendly Eats
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L’As du Fallafel: A Marais institution.
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Creperie Brocéliande: Sweet and savory goodness in Montmartre.
Traveling to Paris : Ways of Transportation
Public Transportation Tips
Get a Navigo Easy card for easy access to the metro and buses. Avoid taxis unless necessary—they’re expensive and can be slow due to traffic.
Walking the City
Paris is a walkable city. Each neighborhood (arrondissement) is like its own little world. Pack comfy shoes!
Bike and Scooter Rentals
Feeling adventurous? Use apps like Lime or Vélib’ to rent bikes and e-scooters for a different perspective.
Traveling to Paris : Warnings
Safety and Scams to Watch Out For
Beware of petition scams, bracelet hustlers near Sacré-Cœur, and pickpockets in crowded spots.
Staying Safe in Paris
Stick to well-lit areas at night, stay aware of your surroundings, and don’t flash valuables. Paris is safe, but being street-smart is always a good idea.
Must-Know Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors
- Don’t be that loud tourist. Say “Bonjour” when you enter a shop. Respect the local pace and enjoy the art of taking things slow.
- Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your stay. And yes, travel insurance is a must. Better safe than sorry!
- Spring (April to June) and Fall (September to November) are ideal, fewer crowds, better weather, and stunning seasonal vibes.
Traveling to paris
Traveling to Paris is a life-changing experience, especially when you do it right. With PARIS BY EMY, you get a travel buddy, a local expert, and a custom experience wrapped into one. Say goodbye to tourist traps and hello to the Paris you’ve always dreamed of. Whether you’re walking along the Seine or enjoying a fresh croissant in Le Marais, this city will steal your heart—and PARIS BY EMY will make sure it happens just the way you want.
FAQs
1. What’s the best way to plan a Paris trip from the U.S.?
Start with a custom service like PARIS BY EMY. They’ll help you with flights, stays, and day-by-day planning based on your goals.
2. Is PARIS BY EMY worth it for first-timers?
Absolutely. You avoid overwhelm, save time, and get local insights you’d never discover on your own.
3. How many days should I spend in Paris?
A solid 5–7 days gives you time to explore major sights and soak in the ambiance without rushing.
4. Is English widely spoken in Paris?
In tourist areas, yes. But learning a few basic French phrases goes a long way with locals.
5. What’s a typical Paris itinerary for 5 days?
Day 1: Eiffel Tower + Seine cruise
Day 2: Louvre + Tuileries + Champs-Élysées
Day 3: Notre-Dame + Latin Quarter
Day 4: Montmartre + Sacré-Cœur
Day 5: Shopping + hidden gems + farewell dinner