Bonjour Lykkers! Have you ever closed your eyes and pictured yourself walking by the Seine, baguette in one hand, camera in the other, and the Eiffel Tower peeking through the clouds? If yes—same!
Paris has this timeless charm that makes you feel like you're in a movie.
Whether you're a first-timer or heading back for more, this guide is here to help you plan the perfect Paris trip, with all the juicy details: where to stay, what to eat, what to see, and how much it'll all cost (note: costs may vary).
Flights to Paris are pretty easy to come by. Charles de Gaulle (CDG) and Orly (ORY) are the main international airports.
Once you land, hop on the RER B train to get into the city—only about $12 and around 40–50 minutes (cost may vary). If you prefer comfort (or are jet-lagged and cranky), taxis and Uber rides to the city center cost about $50–$70 (cost may vary).
Paris has a neighborhood for every vibe.
Luxury dreamers: Want to wake up and sip espresso with an Eiffel Tower view? Stay in the 7th arrondissement. Hotels like Shangri-La Paris start at $1500+ per night (cost may vary).
Stylish but sensible: Try Le Marais for charming boutique hotels at around $120–$200/night (cost may vary).
Traveling light: Hostels in Montmartre or the Latin Quarter offer dorm beds from $30–$60/night, and some have cute rooftop views! (cost may vary)
Paris is packed with iconic sights and hidden treasures. Here's what I did—and loved:
Eiffel Tower: Classic for a reason. You can picnic underneath or go to the top for $15.97 (cost may vary).
Louvre Museum: Home to the Mona Lisa and SO much more. Entry is $24.74, and it's easy to spend half a day wandering here (cost may vary).
Notre-Dame Cathedral: Still breathtaking even during restoration. Free to admire, and nearby Shakespeare & Company bookstore is a gem.
Basilique du Sacré-Cœur de Montmartre: Cobblestone streets, local artists, and a killer view from the top of the hill. Totally free unless you grab a crepe (which you should).
Seine River Cruise: A magical one-hour ride at sunset costs about $20 (cost may vary).
Ah, the food. Paris is one long delicious dream. Here's a breakdown of what you should eat—and how much to budget:
Breakfast: Grab a croissant and coffee from a Boulangerie Raphaëlle for $5–$7 (cost may vary).
Lunch: Go for a café set menu—something like a quiche or sandwich with salad and drink—for $12–$18 (cost may vary).
Sweet treats: Macarons from Ladurée or Pierre Hermé run around $2–$4 each (cost may vary), and they are tiny pieces of heaven.
If you're really into food, consider booking a food tour—it'll cost about $100, but you'll eat your way through the best hidden spots (cost may vary).
Paris isn't just a city—it's a feeling. A walk along the Seine at sunset, a surprise smile from a stranger at a café, or that first bite of a flaky croissant—it all feels like magic. Whether you go full luxury or do it on a budget, Paris will leave you breathless in the best way.
So go on, book that flight, pack your most stylish walking shoes, and get ready to fall in love with Paris—just like I did.
Bon voyage, Lykkers!