Paris

The world capital of romance, famous for its art, its gastronomy, its iconic monuments and its unmatched charm.

FranceÎle De France
5 days

About Paris

About Paris - Culture, History & Character

City Description

Paris, the iconic capital of France, is a global treasure trove of art, fashion, gastronomy and history. From the unmistakable silhouette of the Eiffel Tower to the masterpieces of the Louvre, its elegant boulevards and charming neighborhoods offer an unforgettable experience, where romance and culture are breathed around every corner.
Country
France
Region
Île De France
Highlights
23+ Attractions

Highlights

Eiffel Tower

Eiffel Tower

Louvre Museum

Louvre Museum

Population

Approximately 2.1 million (city), 11 million (metropolitan area)

Languages

French

French is the official language. English is common in tourist areas, but an effort to greet with 'Bonjour' and say goodbye with 'Au revoir' or 'Merci' is always appreciated.

History of Paris

Explore the fascinating past of Paris and discover how it has developed over the centuries.

Historical Journey

Ancient Period

Founded in the 3rd century BC. by the Celtic tribe of the Parisii, it was conquered by the Romans and baptized as Lutetia. In 508 AD, the Frankish king Clovis made it his capital, laying the foundations of future France.

Development Period

During the Middle Ages and Renaissance, Paris flourished as a cultural and religious center. However, its most radical transformation came in the 19th century under Baron Haussmann, who demolished medieval neighborhoods to create the grand boulevards, squares and parks that define the city today.

Modern Period

The Belle Époque, at the end of the 19th century and the beginning of the 20th, consolidated Paris as the world capital of art and culture. After surviving two world wars, the city has reaffirmed itself as a global political, economic and tourist center, a symbol of freedom and avant-garde.

Historical Timeline

The historical timeline shows the key moments that have defined the development of Paris through the centuries.

City Scores

City Scores

Discover what makes this city special with our comprehensive scoring system

Safety

Good
70100

A very safe city in terms of violent crimes, but with a widespread problem of pickpockets and petty theft.

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A very safe city in terms of violent crimes, but with a widespread problem of pickpockets and petty theft.

Advantages:
  • Low risk of violent crime.
  • Safe to walk at night in most central areas.
Challenges:
  • Pickpockets are extremely skilled and active on the subway and in tourist locations.
  • Minor scams (the gold ring, petitions for signatures) are common.

Walkability

Excellent
96100

Walking through Paris is not just a way to get around, it is the best way to discover the city. Most central neighborhoods are explored on foot.

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Walking through Paris is not just a way to get around, it is the best way to discover the city. Most central neighborhoods are explored on foot.

Advantages:
  • Walking along the banks of the Seine or getting lost in Le Marais is a delight.
  • The city is relatively flat and distances between downtown attractions are short.
  • Every street seems to reveal a new bakery, a hidden square or a beautiful facade.
Challenges:
  • The city as a whole is very large; You need the metro to go from one neighborhood to another.
  • Some monuments are at the edges of the city.

Public Transport

Excellent
95100

The Métro system is a marvel of density and efficiency that takes you to almost any corner of the city.

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The Métro system is a marvel of density and efficiency that takes you to almost any corner of the city.

Advantages:
  • Incredibly dense and easy to navigate metro network.
  • The RER connects efficiently to airports and peripheral attractions such as Versailles.
  • High frequencies throughout the day.
Challenges:
  • It can be extremely crowded at peak times.
  • Many stations are old and not accessible to people with reduced mobility.
  • Strikes ('grèves') are relatively common and can paralyze the network.

Affordability

Fair
45100

An expensive destination: lodging and nightlife add up; use public transport and set menus.

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An expensive destination: lodging and nightlife add up; use public transport and set menus.

Advantages:
  • Affordable bakeries ('boulangeries') and supermarkets for picnics.
  • Many museums are free on the first Sunday of the month.
  • Public transport is efficient and has profitable tickets.
Challenges:
  • Accommodation is very expensive, especially in the center.
  • Eating out can quickly drain your budget.
  • Entrance fees to the main monuments are expensive.

Nightlife

Excellent
90100

Very sophisticated and varied offer, from elegant cocktail bars and jazz clubs to trendy nightclubs.

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Very sophisticated and varied offer, from elegant cocktail bars and jazz clubs to trendy nightclubs.

Advantages:
  • Neighborhoods with very defined environments: Le Marais, Saint-Germain, Bastille, Oberkampf.
  • Widespread 'apéro' (appetizer) culture.
  • World-class events and shows (Moulin Rouge, Lido).
Challenges:
  • Drinks and club tickets are very expensive.
  • Many venues have strict admission policies.

Art & Culture

Excellent
100100

Possibly the cultural capital of the world, with an unmatched density of museums and art galleries.

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Possibly the cultural capital of the world, with an unmatched density of museums and art galleries.

Advantages:
  • Essential museums such as the Louvre, Orsay and the Center Pompidou.
  • An endless offer of galleries, theaters, opera and concert halls.
  • The city's own atmosphere has inspired artists for centuries.
Challenges:
  • The lines and crowds at large museums can be overwhelming.
  • It's impossible to see everything in one trip, which can lead to frustration.

Food Scene

Excellent
95100

One of the gastronomic capitals of the world, from haute cuisine to the simple perfection of a croissant.

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One of the gastronomic capitals of the world, from haute cuisine to the simple perfection of a croissant.

Advantages:
  • Culture of 'boulangerie' and 'pâtisserie' without equal.
  • Vibrant street markets (Marché des Enfants Rouges, Marché d'Aligre).
  • From traditional bistros to Michelin-starred restaurants, quality is the norm.
Challenges:
  • Hyper-tourist areas are full of low-quality, high-price traps.
  • Eating well requires research or a big budget.

Shopping

Excellent
100100

The world capital of fashion. It offers everything from haute couture to vintage markets and unique boutiques.

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The world capital of fashion. It offers everything from haute couture to vintage markets and unique boutiques.

Advantages:
  • Epicenter of luxury (Avenue Montaigne, Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré).
  • Iconic department store (Galeries Lafayette, Printemps).
  • Neighborhoods full of charm for designer shopping like Le Marais.
Challenges:
  • Prices in luxury areas are astronomical.
  • Shops can be very busy, especially on weekends.

Weather

Good
70100

Climate with four well-defined seasons, but often gray and rainy. Sunny days are a gift that Parisians make the most of.

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Climate with four well-defined seasons, but often gray and rainy. Sunny days are a gift that Parisians make the most of.

Advantages:
  • Spring in bloom and autumn with its warm colors are magical.
  • Summers are not usually excessively hot.
  • Winter has a melancholic and festive charm.
Challenges:
  • Gray skies are very common for much of the year.
  • Rain can appear at any time.
  • Winters are wet and cold.

Tourist Friendly

Excellent
90100

Fully prepared for mass tourism, with an almost inexhaustible infrastructure and range of services.

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Fully prepared for mass tourism, with an almost inexhaustible infrastructure and range of services.

Advantages:
  • Excellent signage and availability of tourist information.
  • Staff in the service sector usually speak English.
  • Wide range of tours, museum passes and activities.
Challenges:
  • Overcrowding can make the experience stressful.
  • Long lines for everything are the norm in high season.

Family Friendly

Excellent
85100

Great for families with older children, with many interactive parks and museums, although it can be a challenge with strollers.

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Great for families with older children, with many interactive parks and museums, although it can be a challenge with strollers.

Advantages:
  • Wonderful parks such as the Luxembourg Garden (with its boat pond) and the Tuileries.
  • Science museums and the nearby Disneyland Paris.
  • The culture of crepes and cakes is a sure hit with children.
Challenges:
  • Many older subway stations do not have an elevator.
  • Apartments and hotel rooms are usually small.
  • Eating in restaurants can be expensive for a family.

LGBTQ+ Friendly

Excellent
98100

A very open and welcoming city, with the Le Marais neighborhood as one of the most vibrant and consolidated LGTBQ+ centers in Europe.

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A very open and welcoming city, with the Le Marais neighborhood as one of the most vibrant and consolidated LGTBQ+ centers in Europe.

Advantages:
  • Le Marais offers a huge concentration of LGTBQ+ bars, shops and restaurants.
  • Very safe and inclusive environment throughout the city.
  • Home of one of the largest Pride marches in Europe.

Local Friendly

Good
65100

Kindness can be variable. The stereotype of the 'rude Parisian' exists, often stemming from rushed service and a language barrier.

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Kindness can be variable. The stereotype of the 'rude Parisian' exists, often stemming from rushed service and a language barrier.

Advantages:
  • Starting the interaction with a 'Bonjour' radically changes the predisposition.
  • Off the beaten track, people tend to be more relaxed and friendly.
  • Café culture encourages observation and relaxed socializing.
Challenges:
  • Service in restaurants and stores can be direct and unsmiling, which is confused with bad manners.
  • Little patience with indecision or blocking hallways in busy places.

Natural Beauty

Good
75100

Its beauty is overwhelmingly urban and architectural, not natural. The Seine River and its manicured parks are its main 'natural' assets.

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Its beauty is overwhelmingly urban and architectural, not natural. The Seine River and its manicured parks are its main 'natural' assets.

Advantages:
  • The walks along the Seine are iconic and romantic.
  • The parks and gardens are designed with exquisite artistry.
  • The light on the stone buildings creates a unique beauty.
Challenges:
  • It is a dense metropolis with little wilderness.
  • The river is not suitable for bathing.

Architecture

Excellent
100100

An open-air museum that ranges from Gothic to avant-garde, with the iconic Haussmannian planning as its central axis.

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An open-air museum that ranges from Gothic to avant-garde, with the iconic Haussmannian planning as its central axis.

Advantages:
  • Iconic monuments recognized worldwide (Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe).
  • Master Gothic cathedrals such as Notre-Dame and Sainte-Chapelle.
  • Elegance and coherence of Haussmannian buildings.
Challenges:
  • Some modern buildings on the outskirts have generated controversy.
  • Constant restoration may cover some monuments with scaffolding.

Historical Significance

Excellent
100100

Epicenter of European history for centuries, scene of revolutions, empires and cultural avant-garde.

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Epicenter of European history for centuries, scene of revolutions, empires and cultural avant-garde.

Advantages:
  • Traces of the French Revolution, the Napoleonic Empire and the World Wars.
  • Each neighborhood has a deep historical burden.
  • Home of thinkers and artists who changed the world.

Green Spaces

Excellent
90100

Filled with iconic, beautifully designed parks and gardens that are an integral part of Parisian life.

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Filled with iconic, beautifully designed parks and gardens that are an integral part of Parisian life.

Advantages:
  • Spectacular historic gardens: Luxembourg, Tuileries, Jardin des Plantes.
  • Large 'lungs' like the Bois de Boulogne and the Bois de Vincennes.
  • Charming parks and views like Buttes-Chaumont.
Challenges:
  • The more central parks can be very crowded on sunny days.
  • There is a strict 'off the grass' culture in some areas.

Cleanliness

Good
75100

Tourist areas and affluent neighborhoods are well maintained, but general cleanliness can be spotty, especially in the metro.

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Tourist areas and affluent neighborhoods are well maintained, but general cleanliness can be spotty, especially in the metro.

Advantages:
  • The historic parks and gardens are impeccably maintained.
  • Very active cleaning services on the main avenues.
Challenges:
  • The subway can be dirty and have unpleasant smells.
  • Presence of graffiti in some neighborhoods.
  • Occasional strikes can affect garbage collection.

Startup Scene

Excellent
88100

A booming startup ecosystem, driven by centers like Station F, the largest startup campus in the world.

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A booming startup ecosystem, driven by centers like Station F, the largest startup campus in the world.

Advantages:
  • Strong government support for innovation.
  • Great concentration of talent and risk capital.
  • The 'Paris' brand attracts entrepreneurs from all over the world.
Challenges:
  • The bureaucracy to create a company remains complex.
  • The cost of living makes it difficult to attract young talent with startup salaries.

Digital Nomad Friendly

Excellent
85100

An inspiring city to work in, with excellent connectivity and charming cafes, but with a very high cost of living.

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An inspiring city to work in, with excellent connectivity and charming cafes, but with a very high cost of living.

Advantages:
  • Fast and reliable Wi-Fi almost everywhere.
  • Deep-rooted coffee culture, many are suitable for work.
  • Large international community and networking events.
Challenges:
  • The cost of medium-term rental is prohibitive.
  • Cafes can be crowded and it's not always comfortable to spend hours on a laptop.

Overall City Score

Comprehensive assessment of this destination

90/ 100

Weather & Climate

Descubre las mejores épocas para visitar Paris y qué esperar durante todo el año.

Monthly Temperatures

January

Max8°
Min3°

February

Max9°
Min3°

March

Max13°
Min6°

April

Max16°
Min8°

May

Max20°
Min11°

June

Max23°
Min14°

July

Max25°
Min16°

August

Max25°
Min16°

September

Max21°
Min13°

October

Max16°
Min10°

November

Max11°
Min6°

December

Max8°
Min4°

Legend

Best Months
Hot Months
Cold Months
Rainy Periods

Weather Summary

Climate with four well-defined seasons, but often gray and rainy. Sunny days are a gift that Parisians make the most of.

Weather Tips

Spring in bloom and autumn with its warm colors are magical.

Summers are not usually excessively hot.

Winter has a melancholic and festive charm.

Gray skies are very common for much of the year.

Rain can appear at any time.

Winters are wet and cold.

The weather is changeable, it is advisable to bring layers and an umbrella in any season.

Spring (April-June) and fall (September-October) offer the best balance of good weather and manageable crowds.

Overview

Spring

Possibly the best time. The city blooms and the temperatures are ideal for walking.

More Information

Summer

Long, sunny days, but with high temperatures and crowds of tourists.

More Information

Autumn

Beautiful with its ocher colors. Fewer people and an intense cultural agenda.

More Information

Winter

Cold and often grey, but with the charm of Christmas lights and fewer queues.

More Information

Presupuesto y Compras

Plan your expenses and discover the best shopping areas

Budget Planning

Daily spending per person

One of the most expensive cities in Europe. Accommodation, restaurant meals, and attraction tickets are the main expenses.

Budget Travel

60-80€

per day

Mid-Range Travel

120-200€

per day

Luxury Travel

€300+

per day

Guía de Compras

Best Areas

Luxury brands

3 areas

Avenue Montaigne

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Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré

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Place Vendôme

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Department Stores

3 areas

Galeries Lafayette

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Printemps Haussmann

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Le Bon Marché

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Boutique & local design

2 areas

Le Marais

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Saint-Germain-des-Pres

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Flea Market & Vintage

2 areas

Marché aux Puces de Saint-Ouen

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Le Marais neighborhood

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Food Streets

3 areas

Rue Montorgueil

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Rue Cler

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Rue des Martyrs

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Points of Interest

Explore the most fascinating places this city has to offer

Eiffel Tower

Eiffel Tower

The undisputed symbol of Paris and France. It offers spectacular views of the city from its three levels.

Landmark
Louvre Museum

Louvre Museum

The largest museum in the world, home to masterpieces such as the Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo.

Museum

Notre-Dame Cathedral

A masterpiece of Gothic architecture, immortalized by literature. (Check status and access for reconstruction).

Architecture

Arc de Triomphe

An imposing arch commissioned by Napoleon in honor of his victories. Its terrace offers a unique view of the Champs Elysées.

Landmark

Basilica of the Sacred Heart (Sacré-Cœur)

A white Roman-Byzantine style basilica atop Montmartre hill, with panoramic views of Paris.

Architecture

Orsay Museum

Located in a former train station, it houses the largest collection of impressionist and post-impressionist art in the world.

Museum

Champs Elysees Avenue

The most famous avenue in the world, which connects the Arc de Triomphe with the Place de la Concorde.

Landmark

Sainte-Chapelle

A radiant Gothic jewel, famous for its spectacular stained glass windows that flood the interior with light.

Architecture

Montmartre

The bohemian quarter of Paris, with its steep streets, the Place du Tertre full of artists and the Sacré-Cœur.

Landmark

Luxembourg Garden

The favorite park of Parisians, with its palace, its large pond, its metal chairs and a peaceful atmosphere.

Park

Center Pompidou

An avant-garde building that houses the National Museum of Modern Art, a library and excellent views from its roof.

Museum

Versailles Palace

The opulent residence of the kings of France. A monumental complex with the Hall of Mirrors and immense gardens. (Day trip).

Architecture

Moulin Rouge

The most famous cabaret in the world, known for its iconic red windmill and the cancan dance.

Landmark

Latin Quarter

The historic student quarter, home to Sorbonne University. Full of bookstores, cafes and young life.

Landmark

Le Marais

A historic and trendy neighborhood, with aristocratic mansions, designer boutiques, art galleries and a vibrant LGTBQ+ scene.

Landmark

Seine River

The vital artery of Paris. A boat ride ('Bateau-Mouche') offers a unique perspective of the city's monuments.

Landmark

Rodin Museum

A charming museum in an 18th-century mansion with a garden where iconic sculptures such as 'The Thinker' are displayed.

Museum

Pantheon

An imposing neoclassical monument that houses the tombs of illustrious French personalities such as Voltaire, Rousseau and Marie Curie.

Architecture

Paris catacombs

A network of underground tunnels that serve as an ossuary for the remains of millions of Parisians.

Museum

Place des Vosges

The oldest planned square in Paris, a perfect square of red brick in the heart of Le Marais. An oasis of calm.

Landmark

Garnier Opera

An opulent and dazzling neo-baroque style opera house, famous for its grand staircase and ceiling painted by Chagall.

Architecture

Les Invalides (Hôtel national des Invalides)

A complex of buildings that houses the Army Museum and the tomb of Napoleon Bonaparte under its golden dome.

Museum

Tuileries Garden

A formal garden that connects the Louvre with the Place de la Concorde, ideal for a quiet walk.

Park

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Day Trips

Discover fascinating destinations near Paris perfect for day getaways

Approx. 40 minutes by RER train.

Versailles Palace

History, architecture, gardens.

Explore the extravagant royal residence, the Hall of Mirrors, and lose yourself in its vast, manicured gardens.

Approx. 45 minutes by train and then a bus.

Giverny

Art, nature, photography.

Visit the house and gardens that inspired Claude Monet, including the famous water lily pond.

Approx. 40 minutes by RER train.

Disneyland Paris

Families, children, entertainment.

A world of magic and fun for the whole family, with two theme parks: Disneyland Park and Walt Disney Studios Park.

Approx. 40 minutes by train.

Fontainebleau Castle

History, architecture, fewer crowds than in Versailles.

An immense royal palace surrounded by a vast forest, with more than 1,500 rooms that narrate 800 years of French history.

Approx. 45 minutes to Reims by high-speed train.

Reims and the Champagne region

Gastronomy, history, wine lovers.

Discover the city of Reims, with its impressive cathedral, and visit one of the famous cellars ('caves') for a champagne tasting.

Explore Neighborhoods

Discover the unique character and charm of each city district.

Saint-Germain-des-Pres

Intellectual and chic, with legendary cafes, art galleries and luxury shops.

Le Marais

Historic and modern, epicenter of fashion, art and the LGTBQ+ community.

Montmartre

Bohemian and artistic, with a village feel, stunning views and tourist charm.

Latin Quarter

Young and vibrant, the student heart with bookstores, arthouse cinemas and nightlife.

Canal Saint-Martin

Relaxed and 'hipster', ideal for canalside picnics, boutiques and trendy bars.

Île de la Cité & Île Saint-Louis

The historical and geographical heart of Paris, monumental and surprisingly quiet.

Seasonal Experiences

Discover the best experiences and activities for each time of year

Christmas Markets (Marchés de Noël)

End of November - Beginning of January

Several places in the city, such as the Tuileries Garden, are filled with wooden stalls selling crafts, decorations and winter delicacies such as mulled wine ('vin chaud') and crepes. A magical and festive atmosphere.

Paris Plages

July - August

The banks of the Seine are transformed into an urban beach with sand, sun loungers, palm trees and free activities such as concerts and water sports. A unique way to enjoy summer in the city.

Nuit Blanche (White Night)

One Saturday at the beginning of October

An entire night in which the city becomes a giant stage. Museums, galleries and institutions are open free all night with contemporary art installations, performances and concerts everywhere.

Festivals & Local Celebrations

Experience the vibrant culture and traditions of this city through its unique festivals

July 14

Bastille Day

The national holiday of France. It is celebrated with an impressive military parade on the Champs-Elysées in the morning and spectacular fireworks at the Eiffel Tower at night.

June 21

Fête de la Musique

Summer solstice celebration. Professional and amateur musicians of all genres take to the streets, squares and parks of the city in a free and massive festival.

Several times a year (January, February, June, September)

Paris Fashion Week

One of the most important fashion events in the world, filling the city with designers, models and celebrities.

End of May - Beginning of June

Roland-Garros

The French Open, one of four Grand Slam tennis tournaments, attracts the best players and fans in the world.

Traveler Tips

Essential advice and local insights to make your trip memorable and safe

Safety Tips

  1. Beware of Pickpockets

    They are the main risk. They perform in the subway and in crowds near monuments. Carry the bag closed and in front, and the wallet in a front pocket.

  2. Gold Ring Scam

    Someone picks up a gold ring off the ground near you, asks if it's yours, and tries to give it to you, then asks you for money.

  3. Petition Scam

    Groups of people (often posing as deaf and mute) ask you to sign a petition. While you are distracted, they try to rob you.

  4. Don't buy at street vendors

    Avoid buying souvenirs (keychain Eiffel towers, etc.) from unauthorized sellers. They are usually of poor quality and can be a distraction for theft.

Before you go

Quick answers to plan your trip with confidence

About 5 days covers the essentials. Add 1–2 days for neighborhoods or day trips.
Mid-range is around 120-200€ per person per day (stay, food, local transport). See the budget section for ranges.
A solid starting area is Saint-Germain-des-Pres. Compare neighborhoods and hotels on this page.
It is the fastest way to move. A 't+' ticket is good for one trip. If you are going to make several trips, buy a 'carnet' (pack of 10 tickets at a reduced price) or a daily/weekly pass (Navigo).
Family-friendliness rated 85/100. It usually works well for family trips.
Safety rated 70/100. They are the main risk. They perform in the subway and in crowds near monuments. Carry the bag closed and in front, and the wallet in a front pocket.

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