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Strolling streets lined with flower stands as the silhouette of the Eiffel Tower looms in the distance. Sipping on café au lait al fresco at a charming bistro. Sinking your teeth into a warm baguette as you explore artsy Montmartre. All of this and more can be yours on a dreamy vacation to the “City of Light.”

Fantasizing about your own Parisian getaway? Then follow this guide to the city’s top sights, eats, accommodations, and more.

Paris’ neighborhoods, called arrondissements, are easy to navigate. You won’t have to travel far to find a metro station, and those up for a walk can make it from one end of the city to the other in only a few hours—though stopping to soak up the sensational sights and scintillating smells will no doubt extend your travel time. 

The 1^st arrondissement is in the center of the city, making it the ideal place to start your explorations. While on your journey, be sure to make a stop at each of these iconic destinations.

Louvre Museum: Located in Paris’ 1^st arrondissement on the right bank of the River Seine, the Louvre is arguably the most famous museum in the world. Home to celebrated works of art, such as the mysterious Mona Lisa, and statues from Antiquity like the Venus de Milo and the Winged Victory of Samothrace, the Louvre is a must-visit for any trip to this storied city.

Notre-Dame de Paris: Head next to the 4th arrondissement, where the Île de la Cité lays claim to one of the city’s best-known landmarks: the cathedral of Notre-Dame. Damaged in a fire in 2019, the interior of Notre-Dame is currently closed to visitors, however the exterior of this legendary icon of the city is still a spectacle to behold.

Eiffel Tower: No trip to Paris would be complete without soaking up views of the stunning Eiffel Tower. Situated in the 7^th arrondissement, the tower was originally built to serve as the centerpiece of the 1889 World's Fair, and today stands as one of the most popular attractions in the city.

Avenue des Champs-Élysées: Some of the best shopping in the world can be found in the 8^th arrondissement on the Champs-Élysées. Spend an afternoon exploring this stunning tree-lined avenue as you make your way to the picture-perfect Arc de Triomphe, where a climb to the top offers breathtaking views of the action and scenery below.

Montmartre: The hill of Montmartre in the 18th arrondissement is renowned for its artistic history, with Pablo Picasso, Georges Braque, and Amedeo Modigliani having lived and worked here in the early 20th century. Snap a photo in front of the red windmill outside the Moulin Rouge cabaret and marvel at the prominent hilltop Sacré Cœur basilica.

Café Culture

In Paris, café culture rules supreme, with many opening at the crack of dawn to serve up morning “petit déjeuner.” Sidewalk cafes offer the perfect venue for people watching with a side of expertly-made pastries, while sipping champagne inside these cozy confines allow you to enjoy an ambiance rich with history.

With so many delicious delicacies on tap, Paris bistros tempt travelers with a plethora of "must-eat" delights. Here are just a few items that are sure to tantalize your taste buds.

• Croissants: Buttery, flaky, delicious. These famous treats can be found at any French patisserie. 
• French Onion Soup: Warm and comforting with a rich broth and gooey cheese topping. 
• Coq au Vin: A hearty dish of chicken braised in red wine.
• Crème Brûlée: This decadent dessert offers a caramelized sugar crust giving way to a velvety custard underneath. 
• Macarons: Ganache or buttercream sandwiched between delicate meringue cookies.

Attractive accommodations

After a day full of exciting adventures, you’ll find plenty of charming options to settle in for the night. Whether you yearn to stay in historic digs in the city center or prefer a quiet getaway tucked in a less touristy neighborhood, there’s a Hilton property that’s sure to suit your every need.

Housed in a beautifully restored 1889 building, Hilton Paris Opera is beside the Saint Lazare train and metro stations, providing easy access to the Louvre, Montmartre, and Sacre Coeur. 

Enjoy stunning views of the Eiffel Tower from the rooftop terrace and bar at Canopy by Hilton Paris Trocadero, just steps from Jardins du Trocadero and Trocadero Metro stop and less than 10 minutes from the Arc de Triomphe, Champs-Elysees, and Bois de Boulogne.

Explore the center of Parisian fashion at Maison Astor Paris, Curio Collection by Hilton, where the fashion houses of Avenue des Champs-Élysées, boutique shops along Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré, and world-renowned art at the Louvre are all within two kilometers.

Those looking for authentic accommodations outside the city center will love Hilton Garden Inn Paris La Villette in the La Villette District, near the City of Science and Industry, Zenith Paris, and the Paris Philharmonic. 

Travel Tips

Ready to plan your Parisian vacation? Here are a few more tips to help you make the most of your getaway.

When to Visit: Whether you desire a romantic springtime in Paris or relish the festive charm of a European winter wonderland, there’s truly no wrong time of year to travel. Summertime is perhaps the most popular season for tourists, so those planning a visit from June through August should expect longer waits for popular attractions and a greater need for advance planning. For an idyllic holiday, consider autumn, when cooler weather and smaller crowds make the city a delight.

Currency: Although most businesses in Paris accept credit cards, you’ll want to be sure to have some Euros as well. Notify your bank of your overseas travel plans prior to departure and use your ATM card to withdraw the local currency as needed throughout your stay.

Getting Around: Smartphone maps make navigating the city a breeze and can help guide you to the nearest metro station for easy transportation. Purchase metro tickets in a pack of 10, known as a carnet, or grab a day pass that allows you to hop on and off multiple times for the most affordable way to get around the city. Taxis and rideshare apps are also popular transportation options.

Take a Tour: Biking is also a great way to explore Paris, and numerous rental and tour companies offer options for travelers. Tour operators can also provide day trips by bus or train to nearby exciting destinations like Versailles and even Brussels, Belgium.

No matter what you’re hoping to explore in this fabulous city and beyond, you won’t have to travel far to discover hidden gems and make unforgettable memories.