Something interesting is always happening in Paris, France, the city of lights. For the traveler, there are a great many things to see, all year round. Paris is a cosmopolitan city. It boasts a booming economy, proud cultural heritage, and of course sightseeing.
When to go?
If you want to experience the city like locals do, then go to Paris in fall or winter. That is when you can feel the vibrancy of the city without the distractions of the tourists. Christmas is the time of great beauty. But for sightseeing and tourism, you are advised to travel to Paris in the summertime. At that time, it is warm in Paris and the traffic is intense due to vast number of tourists that temporarily occupy the city; the prices are also proportionally higher.
How long to stay?
You can always stay as little as a weekend if you don’t like the crowds. Make sure that you plan in advance to hit the highlights of the city. In this case, stay in downtown (more expensive) to be able to cover a lot more territory fast.
To do justice to the city, stay a week or more. In doing so, you can then visit and spend quality time in the city. You can sightsee, visit parks, visit museums, and spend time soaking in the incredible Parisian culture. You will also have a chance to visit some outlaying areas like Versailles, which is a must-see.
Where to stay?
If you are going to Paris in the peek summer season, then hotels are usually booked up and if not, they are very pricy. Many tourists look to bed and breakfast as an alternative. Also you can try staying in the suburbs, or at hostels, private residences, etc. Investigate online sources (e.g. craigslist) beforehand for great deals.
Things to see
Champs Elysees and Arc de Triomphe are absolute must-sees when you are in Paris. They are especially beautiful at night. A walk along Champs Elysees and a visit to Arc de Triomphe will be a memory you will cherish for a long time. The history, the energy, the ambiance, and the view of it are something quite unique and unforgettable.
Eiffel Tower is of course on every tourist’s list. This is the most magnificent tower in the world, with the best view. When you get to the top, there are signs pointing in the direction of world cities. On a clear day, you feel that you can almost see those far cities!
Louvre is for me, the greatest museum around, and don’t forget that it is the official residence of Mona Lisa. It would take you days to cover Louvre, and to see its ancient and new collection of arts and artifacts. If you have time, spend at least 2 days here.
Versailles is simply an amazing palace and gardens. Take a train from Paris to here to see the great palace build by Louis XIV. The gardens at Versailles are guaranteed to make a lasting impression on you, as you have never seen such grand gardens and so immaculately maintained. Go here early in the morning to avoid the tourist rush.
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