Ah, Paris – the City of Light and a destination that consistently sits high on almost everyone’s bucket list. Some visitors, however, return with stories of disappointment, perhaps overwhelmed by the crowds or unprepared for the pace of this bustling metropolis. But I loved every minute of my Parisian adventure, and that’s why I’m writing this post — so you can skip the overwhelm and focus on making the most of your time in this iconic city.
One thing that might surprise you is that Paris is much larger and busier than many other European cities, which means getting around can be a challenge if you don’t plan ahead. The city’s points of interest are spread out, so traveling from one attraction to another can be overwhelming if you’re not prepared. But worry not — here’s exactly what I did to enjoy my trip to the fullest and avoid the usual tourist traps.
Where to Stay
First up, I chose to stay at 25hours Hotel, which is conveniently located right next to Gare du Nord station. Where you stay in Paris is incredibly important. Unlike smaller European cities where the major attractions are within walking distance, Paris requires you to be strategic about your location. Staying near a major transport hub like Gare du Nord makes it easy to access different parts of the city.
The best advice I can give? Plan your visits area by area. Don’t rush from one end of the city to the other — it’ll save you a lot of time and energy.
The Eiffel Tower and Its Surroundings
Of course, the Eiffel Tower is on everyone’s list, but don’t just make it a quick stop. Plan to spend time around the area. Start at Trocadéro, which offers arguably the best view of the Eiffel Tower, especially for photos. Then wander down to Champ de Mars, the sprawling park where you can picnic with the Iron Lady in the backdrop.
But here’s an unpopular opinion: even if you don’t get to climb the Eiffel Tower itself, make sure to climb the Arc de Triomphe. Why? The panoramic views from the top are even more impressive because you get to see the entire Paris skyline — including the Eiffel Tower! The climb is worth it, and fewer people know about the incredible perspective you get from up there.
Sacré-Cœur, Montmartre & More
Next, head over to Sacré-Cœur Basilica, perched atop the highest point in Paris in the historic Montmartre district. The view from here is stunning, and the neighborhood itself is bursting with artistic charm. While in Montmartre, don’t miss Le Consulat, a picturesque café that’s perfect for a coffee break, and of course, the famous Moulin Rouge — even if you don’t catch a show, it’s worth a visit for its legendary status.
Pont Alexandre III, Palace de la Concorde & a River Cruise
Moving on, combine a visit to the Pont Alexandre III (the most beautiful bridge in Paris), Place de la Concorde, and wrap up the day with a Seine River Cruise. A boat ride down the Seine is a fantastic way to take in the city’s most iconic landmarks, including Notre-Dame and the Louvre, all without the hassle of navigating busy streets.
Tuileries Garden, Petit Palais, & The Pantheon
Take a leisurely stroll through the Tuileries Garden on your way to Petit Palais, an often-overlooked gem of a museum with stunning architecture and free exhibitions. Then, make your way to the Pantheon, a stunning mausoleum in the Latin Quarter, home to the tombs of French greats like Voltaire, Rousseau, and Marie Curie.
Disneyland Paris
No trip to Paris is complete without a visit to Disneyland Paris, especially if you’re traveling with kids or simply want to relive your childhood magic. Located just outside the city, Disneyland is easily accessible via the RER A train, which will take you directly to the park. Spend a full day here exploring Sleeping Beauty Castle, experiencing thrilling rides like Space Mountain, and meeting your favorite Disney characters. The park is divided into two sections: Disneyland Park and Walt Disney Studios Park, so if time permits, consider getting a two-park pass to make the most of your visit.
A pro tip: Get to the park early to make the most of the day, and consider staying for the fireworks show in the evening — it’s a spectacular end to a magical day.
The Ultimate Tip: Navigo Découverte
If you’re planning to explore Paris like a local, you absolutely need to get the Navigo Découverte card. It’s a weekly travel card that gives you unlimited access to the metro, buses, and RER trains within Paris and its suburbs. Trust me, this card will save you both time and money, especially if you’re planning on using the metro often (and you should – it’s by far the fastest and cheapest way to get around!).
Bonus: Photography Spots
If you’re like me and love capturing beautiful moments, I’ve got a separate post on the best photo spots in Paris — click here to check it out. Trust me, your Instagram feed will thank you!
So, there you have it — my complete guide to navigating and enjoying Paris. Whether it’s your first time or your tenth, planning area by area, picking the right accommodation, and using local transport wisely can make all the difference. Paris is vast and busy, but with a little foresight, it’s nothing short of magical.
