A First-time Visitor’s Guide to Paris

So, it’s your first time visiting Paris? How exciting! Deciding what to see and do in this magnificent city can feel overwhelming, but don’t worry—I’m here to help! :)

Paris is a city that has captivated countless hearts with its unique blend of art, history, and romance. From the majestic heights of the Eiffel Tower to the mysterious depths of the Paris Catacombs, the French capital is filled with iconic destinations that no first-time visitor should miss. But with so much to explore, it can be daunting to figure out where to start. Should you buy tickets ahead of time for the Louvre? Is the Arc de Triomphe free for certain visitors?

To make your journey a bit easier, I’ve put together this essential guide. It’s packed with practical tips and personal insights to help you navigate Paris’s top attractions effortlessly.I promise, by the end of your trip, you’ll understand why so many people, including myself, have fallen in love with this enchanting city.

The Eiffel Tower

Standing tall as Paris’s most recognizable symbol, the Eiffel Tower offers panoramic views that are nothing short of breathtaking. To make the most of your experience, be sure to book your tickets ahead of time as the lines can be long, especially during peak tourist season. Although you can visit the tower late into the night, with the last entry at 11:45 PM in the summer, which makes sunset an ideal time to go for a stunning view of the city as it transitions from day to night. While the tower grounds are free to enter, you’ll need a ticket to ascend to the higher levels. 

As you plan your visit, be mindful of your surroundings, as the area can get quite crowded. If you need a break from the hustle, the nearby parks like Champ de Mars offer a perfect spot to relax and take in the tower’s grandeur from a distance. For a different perspective, head over to Place du Trocadéro for an unobstructed and iconic view of the Eiffel Tower, especially picturesque at sunset or when it sparkles on the hour after dark. Whether you're soaking in the views from the top or enjoying the serene surroundings below, the Eiffel Tower is an unforgettable highlight of any Paris trip.

Practical Information (As of June 19th, 2024)
Opening Hours:
Mid-June to Early September: Daily from 9:00 AM to 12:45 AM (Last entry at 11:45 PM)
Rest of the Year: Daily from 9:30 AM to 11:45 PM (Last entry at 10:45 PM)

Ticket Prices
Prices vary depending on whether you choose to take the elevator or stairs:
Stairs to the second floor: €10.70 (adults), €5.40 (ages 12-24), €2.70 (under 12)
Elevator to the second floor: €18.10 (adults), €9.10 (ages 12-24), €4.50 (under 12)
Elevator to the top: €28.30 (adults), €14.10 (ages 12-24), €7.10 (under 12)
Stairs to the second floor + elevator to the top: €21.50 (adults), €10.70 (ages 12-24), €5.40 (under 12)

For up-to-date prices and more detailed information, please check the official website of the Eiffel Tower: https://www.toureiffel.paris/en

The Arc de Triomphe

The Arc de Triomphe stands proudly at the western end of the Champs-Élysées, serving as a monumental symbol of French national pride and history. To avoid the long lines, be sure to book tickets ahead of time. Remember, there’s a pedestrian tunnel underneath the busy roundabout, so do not attempt to run across the street—safety first!

If you simply want to admire this architectural marvel from below, you can visit the base for free without waiting in line. However, climbing to the top offers a spectacular reward: a panoramic view of Paris that includes a stunning perspective of the Eiffel Tower and the twelve grand avenues that radiate from the arch, forming the iconic star shape of the Place Charles de Gaulle.

Be prepared for a bit of a workout as there are 284 steps to the top, but the breathtaking view is well worth the effort. Compared to the Eiffel Tower, the Arc de Triomphe provides a more relaxed experience, allowing you to soak in the view with fewer people around, a must-visit on your Paris itinerary.

Practical Information (As of June 19th, 2024)
Opening Hours:
April to September: Daily from 10:00 AM to 11:00 PM (Last entry at 10:15 PM)
October to March: Daily from 10:00 Am to 10:30 PM (Last entry at 9:45 PM)
Closed on January 1st, May 1st, May 8th, July 14th, November 11th, and December 25th

Ticket Prices
Adults €13
Free for visitors under 18 and EU residents under 26 with valid ID

For up-to-date prices and more detailed information, please check the official website of the Arc de Triomphe: https://www.paris-arc-de-triomphe.fr/en

Louvre Museum

Stepping into the Louvre is like entering a time capsule of human creativity and history. As the world’s largest museum, it houses an extraordinary array of treasures spanning millennia. While everyone wants to catch a glimpse of the Mona Lisa, remember to explore beyond—discover ancient Egyptian artifacts, marvel at Greek sculptures, and lose yourself in the grandeur of Renaissance paintings.

The museum can get SUPER busy, especially around midday, so consider arriving early or later in the afternoon for a more tranquil experience. There are also two other entrances to the Louvre, not just the Pyramid entrance up top, which you can use to skip the long lines: the Carrousel du Louvre and the Porte des Lions. Whether you're a seasoned art aficionado or a first-time visitor, the Louvre promises an unforgettable journey through the epochs of human creativity.

Practical Information (As of June 19th, 2024)
Opening Hours
Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday: 9:00 AM to 9:45 PM
Friday: 9:00 AM to 9:45 PM
Closed on Tuesdays
Closed on January 1st, May 1st, and December 25th

Ticket Prices
Adults €17
Free for visitors under 18, and EU residents under 26 with valid ID

For up-to-date prices and more detailed information, please check the official website of the Louvre: https://www.louvre.fr/en

Basilique du Sacre-Coeur

The Sacré-Cœur Basilica stands proudly atop Montmartre, its gleaming white domes and Romano-Byzantine architecture offering a striking contrast against the Parisian skyline. As one of the tallest points in Paris, it provides unparalleled panoramic views that stretch across the city, making it an essential starting point for exploring the artistic and bohemian charm of the Montmartre neighborhood.

Entry to the basilica is free, allowing visitors to explore its grand interior, adorned with intricate mosaics and a majestic grand organ, though be prepared for potential crowds, this is Paris after all. Where you’ll find little to no people is the Basilica’s dome, offering an even more breathtaking perspective of the city. Accessing the basilica involves navigating several stairs due to its hilltop location, but the journey can be made easier with the convenient funicular ride, integrated into Paris's transport network.

Beyond the Sacré-Cœur Basilica, Montmartre beckons with its winding cobblestone streets, charming cafes, and vibrant artistic legacy. Wander through Place du Tertre to see artists at work, capturing the essence of Parisian life on canvas. Explore iconic landmarks like the Moulin Rouge and delve into the neighborhood's rich history, which has inspired countless writers, painters, and musicians over the centuries.

Practical Information (As of June 19th, 2024)
Opening Hours
Basilica
Open Daily from 6:00 AM to 10:30 PM
The Dome
May to September: 8:30 AM to 8:00 PM 
October to April: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM

Ticket Prices
Entrance to the Basilica is Free
To access the Dome
Adults €8, Students and Children €5

For up-to-date prices and more detailed information, please check the official website of the Basilique du Sacre-Coeur: https://www.sacre-coeur-montmartre.com/en/

Palace of Versailles

Nestled just outside Paris, Versailles is more than just a palace—it's a journey back in time to the splendor of French royalty. As you step into the Hall of Mirrors, imagine the grandeur of 17th-century France, where kings held court and lavish parties unfolded. To avoid long waits, I recommend purchasing tickets in advance, ensuring more time to immerse yourself in this historical gem.

You can reach Versailles conveniently via the RER C train line, with the Versailles Château Rive Gauche station a short walk from the palace grounds. A round-trip ticket from central Paris typically costs around €7.50.

The gardens, sprawling and meticulously manicured, are perfect for a leisurely stroll or a peaceful moment by the Grand Canal. Whether you're captivated by the opulent interiors or the tranquility of the outdoors, plan to dedicate at least half a day to explore everything Versailles has to offer. Be mindful of crowds, especially on weekends, and consider arriving early to savor quieter moments amidst the palace's storied halls and expansive grounds.

Practical Information (As of June 19th, 2024)
Opening Hours
Palace
Open from Tuesday to Sunday: 9:00 AM to 6:30 PM
The Gardens
April to October: 8:00 AM to 8:30 PM 
November to March: 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM
The Estate of Trianon and the Coach Gallery have varying opening hours, so it's best to check the official website for the most up-to-date information.

Ticket Prices
Palace Ticket (Palace with timed entry and Gardens)
Adults €21
Free for visitors under 18 and EU Residents under 26 (MUST BOOK TIME SLOT)
Estate of Trianon Ticket 
Adults €12
Free for visitors under 18 and EU Residents under 26
Passport Ticket (Palace + Estate of Trianon)
Adults €32

For up-to-date prices and more detailed information, please check the official website of the Palace of Versailles: https://en.chateauversailles.fr/

The Paris Catacombs

Descending beneath the vibrant streets of Paris, the Catacombs offer a haunting yet captivating journey into the city's hidden depths. Originally ancient limestone quarries that supported the growth of Paris above ground, these tunnels took on a new role in the late 18th century as ossuaries to address the city's cemetery overflow. Walking through the dimly lit passages, lined with meticulously stacked bones and skulls, you're confronted with a profound testament to Paris's history and the passage of time. The eerie atmosphere and solemnity of the Catacombs provide a unique perspective on the city's past.

Beyond its historical allure, the Catacombs also serve as a reminder of Paris's resilience and adaptation over the centuries. The intricate network of tunnels invites visitors to ponder the city's evolution from its medieval origins to the bustling metropolis of today. For those seeking a deeper connection to Paris's past, the Catacombs provide a profound exploration that bridges the gap between history and modernity, offering a compelling narrative of survival and transformation.

Booking tickets in advance is essential!! Tickets will sell out. 

Practical Information (As of June 19th, 2024)
Opening Hours
From Tusday to Sunday: 10:00 AM to 8:30 PM (Last entry at 7:30 PM)
Closed on Monday and certain holidays (check official website for exact dates)

Ticket Prices
Adults €29, EU Residents under 26 years old €23, Children under 18 years old €10

For up-to-date prices and more detailed information, please check the official website of the Paris Catacombs: https://www.catacombes.paris.fr/en 

Paris is a city that invites exploration—beyond its iconic landmarks, it's a tapestry of neighborhoods, flavors, and stories waiting to be discovered. Whether you're tracing the footsteps of artists in Montmartre or marveling at the grandeur of Versailles, each experience offers a glimpse into the essence of this enchanting city. Plan wisely, embrace spontaneity, and let Paris unfold its magic at every turn.