VISIT PARIS


Paris is the number one tourist destination in the world, so it's no wonder people are always looking for tips and great spots when visiting the city. This page is designed to pull all the resources I've created over the years conveniently in one place.

First, it is necessary to know that Paris is divided into 20 arrondissements, or districts. Each one has a personality of its own, and each one is great in its own way. One of my favorite projects I've done is the Tour de France project, where I invited local bloggers to share an inside look at the neighborhoods they know best. I looked at cities beyond Paris as well.

One of the things I love best about Paris is that it is a small, big city that is very accessible (except if you have a broken leg or a stroller!). I once ran across the city in just 2 hours, and I'm not a particularly fast runner. The metro gets you just about everywhere, and it's very rare that you need to make a transfer more than once. When trying to plan, it's a good rule of thumb to think 1-minute between stops, and 5 minutes for each transfer (correspondence). I rarely need more than 30-40 minutes to get most places in the city.

The RER commuter line is an easy way into the city from the airports. Here is a guide with several options when you first arrive in Paris. And speaking of travel, pack light. You need far less than you think you do (and anything you forget, you can always buy). Here are some ideas of how not to dress like a tourist.

People are always curious where to stay in Paris. Really you can't go wrong. I typically suggest people rent an apartment because you not only get a lot more space, but it puts you in the heart of actual neighborhoods. Here are some ideas of where to sleep while in Paris. If you're wondering when the best time to visit Paris is, here are some thoughts on what takes place in the city by season.

Paris can be a very expensive city, but it doesn't have to be. Don't miss the guide to frugal Paris.

But what to do while you're here? Here's a list of my favorite Paris addresses, the Paris City Guide I wrote for Design*Sponge, my design tour of Paris, a trip through Amèlie's Paris in Montmartre, 20 Questions about my Paris, and a few ideas to "do something different."

P.S. I give local tours through Vayable!





DISCLAIMER: I do my best to keep everything up to date, but it's always a good idea to double check addresses and openings.