How to Plan a Trip to Paris 2026 | Where to Stay, What to Do & Travel Tips

How to Plan a Trip to Paris 2026 | Where to Stay, What to Do & Travel Tips

Hey, this is Brandon Shaw from the tour guy. We run tours all over Europe and today I’m going to show you how to plan a trip to Paris. We’re going to cover when to go and how to stay, the best things to do and how to skip those long lines, how to get there, where to stay, how to get around the city with ease, what you should pack, and of course, food, dining, and local etiquette. When to go and how long to stay. So Paris is magical all year round. There’s not one particular season that necessarily is better than the other. However, it really depends on your own personal choices of what you want to do. Think of it as each season being its own Parisian story. Now, let’s break down each season. Winter. So, imagine Paris as your own personal museum. It’s quiet. There are no crowds. And even when you go to the Louv, the main museum, there’s not going to be a lot of people inside. Imagine after the museum, you tuck into a beastro. You have a cha show which is means hot chocolate which is delicious by the way especially with whipped cream on top. And then you go back to your hotel late at night. It’s quiet, intimate and budget friendly. Springtime. This is when Paris truly awakens. First the magnolia appear in March, followed by a burst of cherry blossoms in April. And finally, the stunning purple wisteria drapes the city in May. The cafe terraces fill up and the days grow long and sunny. Late April into May is manifi, but pack an umbrella, a classic Parisian spring shower is all part of the charm. Summer, think long, warm evenings, picnics in front of the Eiffel Tower, and outdoor festivals that last late into the night. It’s vibrant and full of life, but be prepared for crowds and peak season prices. It’s the Paris you see in the movies, bright and bustling. Fall. This is my personal favorite. The summer crowds have departed, leaving a golden glow over the city. The weather is perfect for a light jacket, and the light on the sand is simply breathtaking. It’s the sweet spot where you get the best of both worlds. Great weather and fewer tourists. The holidays, Christmas, and New Year’s. The city transforms into a winter wonderland with twinkling lights and enchanting Christmas markets. Prices will be higher, but the festive atmosphere is truly special. New Year’s Eve or L Sanves is a massive street party, especially along the Shaniz. Now, let’s tackle the question of how long you should stay. This is key to getting the Paris experience you’re dreaming of. I believe that you need at least 3 to 4 days without the travel time. So, between 4 and 5 days is kind of the sweet spot. With this amount of time, you’re able to see pretty much all the main sites in the city and not feel rushed to also once in a while sit down, have a coffee, and people watch. Here’s a quick itinerary to give you an idea of what that looks like. Day one, hit the ground running. The best way to beat jet lag is to push through until a local bedtime. Start with the stunning Eiffel Tower. Afterwards, take a relaxing Sen River cruise to see the city sparkle. And if you have the option, don’t skip the champagne, La Viael. Day two, Louv and Mumat. Dedicate your morning to the legendary Louv Museum. To avoid feeling overwhelmed, pick a few wings you’d mostly be excited about. In the afternoon, wander through the charming hilly streets of Mul, visit Sakur and soak in the bohemian atmosphere. Day three, Vasai. Take a day trip to the opulent palace of Versailles to witness its breathtaking grandeur. It’s definitely worth it if you’ve not been there before. If you prefer to stay in the city, then there’s a chance to visit some of the lesserknown museums, which are all equally fantastic. Day four, hidden gems. Now it’s time to explore like a local. Maybe go to the Latin Quarter. There’s some bookstores in there. Take a walk along the Sen. Nice relaxing. Jump on a boat. Go on the Sen River Cruise. Walk along Sanja. Have a coffee and just watch the people go by and enjoy real Parisian life. Are you a returning traveler? If you’ve already seen the main sites, I suggest staying for a week. This gives you time to dive deeper and add an incredible day trip. Consider exploring the Champagne region, visiting the historic D-Day beaches in Normandy, or seeing the stunning island Abbey of Monsam Michelle. Pro tip, to make your planning even easier, we put together a really comprehensive 4-day Paris itinerary. It’s packed with our favorite restaurant recommendations, hidden gems, and practical tips. You can find the link for that in the description below. All right, let’s dive into the best things to do in Paris. The key is to avoid overcheduling. More is not always better. We suggest a simple daily formula to keep your days balanced and enjoyable. What does that mean? One structured activity per day, some free time for wandering or shopping, and a fantastic food experience. That structured activity could be a guided tour of the Louv in the morning, a food experience could be a food tour in the evening, a wine cheese tasting, or even something more decadent like oysters and caviar tasting. Choose something that will really make your friends at home wonderfully jealous. Let’s prioritize what to see, especially if this is your first time in Paris. Number one, the Louv and the Eid de. Start your morning at the world’s most famous museum. The Mona Lisa, the Winged Victory, and the Venus Demo are absolute mustseas, but the Louv is massive and can be overwhelming. We highly recommend booking a guided skip the line tour to save precious time and focus on the masterpieces without getting lost. Afterward, take a short walk to the E dee, the historic heart of Paris. You can admire Notre Dame Cathedral and then visit the stunning San Chapel to witness its breathtaking stained glass windows. Number two, Versailles. Just a 40-minute trip from Paris, the Palace of Versailles is the definition of French grander. Hall of Mirrors, the sprawling gardens, Marian Twinet’s private estate, the petite triion are truly unforgettable. Plan for this to be at least a half-day commitment, if not a full day. To make it seamless, book a guided tour that includes transportation. You’ll bypass the train and ticket hassles, saving time and seeing more. Number three, Eiffel Tower and Sen Cruise. No trip to Paris is complete without a visit to the Eiffel Tower. Tickets are released online 60 days in advance and can sell out in minutes for popular times. So, set a reminder for a unique adventure. climb the 674 steps to the second floor with a guide who will share incredible stories all along the way. You can also book one of our guided tours to access the summit which offers views you won’t get with a standard second floor ticket. Number four, Lumare and Mum. These neighborhoods are packed with charm, history, and incredible food. Lumare. Picture narrow medieval streets, trendy boutiques, and some of the best food in Paris. Much like Trastere in Rome or Soho in London, Lumare is the place to be. Our food tour here is a perfect way to sample French classics like creps, pronounced Kreps Mum. With its cobblestone streets, the beautiful Sakuro Basilica, and Bohemian vibes, this area is pure magic. It’s filled with cool places to eat. So, be sure to check out our specific restaurant recommendations for Mom linked in the description below. Number five, hidden gems and smaller museums. If you’ve had some extra time, Paris has so many other treasures to explore. For example, Muse Dulce. Discover impressionist masterpieces inside a stunningly converted former train station. Picasso Museum, a must-see for modern art lovers. Carnival Museum, take a deep dive into the history of Paris itself. And here’s a pro tip. If you’re short on time, our Paris in a day is the perfect solution. It combines the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, and Ascend Cruise into one seamless, stress-free itinerary. How to get there? Getting to Paris couldn’t be easier. Set Fasil. Whether you’re arriving by air or rail, the city is incredibly well connected. Let’s start with the airports. Paris has two main international hubs, Charles de Gaul and Orle. Charles de Gaul is the main international airport and where most long haul flights land. It’s located about 45 minutes from the city center. You have a few great options to get into Paris. The RERB train is efficient and cost around €11. Alternatively, you can grab a flat rate taxi for about €5560 or arrange a private car. A quick tip for the reb train. It can get crowded, so always keep a close eye on your bags. Now, a quick word of warning about Bovet airport. You might see some tempting lowcost flights that land there, but be aware that it’s very far from Paris. It’s primarily used for budget airlines that are more prone to cancelling flights if they are in full. If you’re traveling from elsewhere in Europe, arriving by train is a wonderful scenic and convenient option. Paris has around at least four major train stations connecting it to international destinations. Gardun. This is perhaps the most famous as it’s the main arrival point for the Euro Star from London. It’s your gateway to and from the north of Europe. Godilste as the name suggests this station takes you east towards Germany, Austria and beyond. God, this one is my personal favorite. It takes you in what I like to call the right direction, south to the beautiful Kota deser Switzerland and my personal favorite, Italia. Number four, where to stay. Picking the right neighborhood is one of the most important decisions that you’re going to make. It’s less about having a view of the Eiffel Tower from your window and more about stepping outside your door and immediately feeling the Parisian magic. I personally prefer sleeping in a quieter area to guarantee a good night’s rest and then venturing out into the more lively areas during the day. Here are a few of my top neighborhoods to help you discover your perfect Parisian home base. Lumare, which is the third and the fourth Aismon. If you’re a foodie and love history, this is your spot. Lumare is centrally located and brimming with energy. Its narrow medieval streets are packed with trendy boutiques, art galleries, and some of the best food in the city. You’ll find yourself in historic, vibrant, and utterly charming part of Paris that feels alive day and night. It is a true foodie heaven. Sanja de Pre in the sixmon. For those who dream of classic, elegant Paris, Sanja is perfect. This neighborhood is known for its iconic cafes, high-end shops, and beautiful architecture. You’re just a stones throw from the Sen River and the gorgeous Luxembourg Gardens, making it an ideal location for romantic strolls and soaking in some of the sophisticated atmosphere of the city. Lucat Latan or the Latin Quarter. If you love a youthful, energetic vibe, the Latin Quarter is for you. Home to the Sorbone University, this area buzzes with student life. Its winding medieval streets are filled with affordable beastro, lively bars, and quirky bookshops. It’s a neighborhood with a rich intellectual history and a vibrant, unpretentious spirit. Getting around Paris is an adventure in itself, and thankfully, the city is incredibly easy to navigate. Paris is above all a walking city. Exploring on foot is the absolute best way to discover its hidden courtyards, charming streets, and unexpected gems. If your map app says the destination is less than 20 minutes away, I highly recommend walking. Just give yourself 30 to 45 minutes to get there. This extra time allows you to wander, pop into a shop, or grab a coffee without feeling rushed. For longer distances, or when the weather isn’t cooperating, here’s how to get around. The metro. This is the lifeline of Paris. It’s cheap, fast, and the network is so extensive that you’re almost always near a station. Navigating it is simple. Your favorite map app like Google or or Apple Maps has all the information you need for roots and times. You can even buy your tickets digitally through the NGO application right in your phone’s wallet. If you prefer a physical ticket, the machines in every station are easy to use. If you prefer a direct route, taxis and ride share services are great options. In Paris, you can reliably use apps like Uber and Free Now to get where you need to go with ease. Pro tip, the metro doors in Paris very quickly and without warning. When your train arrives, don’t hesitate. Step in quickly or you might risk getting caught. Paris is the fashion capital of the world, so this is your chance to embrace that chic, effortless style. It’s time to leave the gym shorts, sweatpants, and flip-flops at home. You’ll be walking a lot, but you can absolutely look stylish while staying comfortable. For long flights, my secret weapon is packing a light pair of sweatpants or a comfortable long-sleeve shirt. Think Lululemon in your carry-on. Once you’re on the plane, change into this comfy outfit so you can relax or sleep easily. and then switch back to your original clothes just before landing. Shoes. Comfort is key, but it doesn’t have to be clunky. Think stylish leather sneakers, chic ankle boots, or classic loafers. Your feet will thank you for choosing something that is both comfortable and fashionable. Layers are your best friend. Paris weather can change in the blink of an eye. Packing a light jacket, a classic trench coat, or a stylish blazer is essential. Stick to classic, well-fitting pieces that you can mix and match. Dark wash jeans, tailored trousers, and a few elegant tops will take you from a morning museum visit to an evening dinner. A sleek cross body bag with a secure zipper is your best bet. It keeps your hands free for taking photos or holding a croissant, keeps your essentials like your phone and wallet safe, and adds a polished touch to your look. Parisians are masters of understated elegance. A great pair of sunglasses, a classic watch, and maybe even a beret if you’re feeling bold are all you need. The key is to keep it simple and not overdo it. If you forget something or simply feel inspired, don’t stress. Paris is the perfect place to do a little shopping. Head to the incredible boutiques in Lumare or the elegant shops in Sanjaman for a new outfit that will have you looking tic in no time. Now for my favorite topic, food. Paris is a true culinary capital, but enjoying its incredible food scene comes with understanding its unique rhythm and customs. Reservations are key. First and foremost, make reservations. Parisian restaurants, even the more casual ones, fill up quickly. Walking in without a reservation, especially for dinner, can sometimes be seen as a bit of an insult. Luckily, you don’t need to stress about making a phone call. Most places now accept online reservations directly through their websites or apps like The Fork. For Michelin starred restaurants, you’ll want to book weeks, if not months, in advance. So, definitely plan those before your trip. Dining etiquette, the simple rules. A little politeness goes a long way in Paris. Here’s the single most important tip. Before you walk into any restaurant, cafe, or boutique, a quick bonjour misure, or bonjour, madame. This simple gesture changes the entire interaction and shows respect. Once you’re seated, remember that meals are meant to be savored, not rushed. Expect a dinner service to last 2 to 3 hours. Service is technically included in the bill, but it’s customary to round up about a couple of euros or leave about 10% for exceptional service. When you are finally ready for the bill, they won’t bring it to you until you actually say to them, which means the bill, please. You can’t leave Paris without indulging in some of its iconic dishes. Be sure to seek out for breakfast a buttery quason or a rich bola from a local bologoner. For starters, a classical French onion soup topped with melted cheese or adventurous escalago in garlic butter. For mains, hearty dishes like duck comfi, a slowcooked buff bogon or perfectly prepared steak tartar. And if you want to splurge, definitely go with a crisp glass of champagne and some oysters. However, I would not consider this splurging. I highly recommend on your trip that even if you don’t like oysters, you try them on this trip to Paris. One of the best ways to explore the city’s culinary landscape is by booking a food tour. A tour through the Lumare neighborhood will let you sample the finest pastries, cheeses, and wines while you learn all about Paris’s delicious history from a local expert. And there you have it. Planning your trip to Paris does not have to be that stressful. With a little bit of Savo, you can make it the most unforgettable trip ever. If this video helped you feel ready to take on the city of light, go ahead and hit that like button and subscribe for more travel guides. Be sure to share it with the official planner in your friend group. Don’t forget to check out the links in the description below for our expertled guided tours and our detailed 4-day Paris itinerary to make your trip even more seamless. Bonvoyage Abento.

Learn more with our complete 4-Day Paris Itinerary, packed with restaurant picks, hidden gems, and planning tips:

Paris

#paris #paristravel #paris2025 #paristriptips

Book Paris Tours & Experiences:
🇫🇷 Book the Best Paris Tours: https://thetourguy.com/tours/paris
🖼️ Skip-the-Line Louvre Tours: https://thetourguy.com/tours/louvre-guided-tours
🗼 Eiffel Tower Tours & Summit Access: https://thetourguy.com/tours/eiffel-tower-tours
👑 Versailles Day Trips with Transportation:https://thetourguy.com/tours/versailles-tours
🍷 Paris Food Tours: https://thetourguy.com/tours/paris-food-tours
Musée d’Orsay Tours: https://thetourguy.com/tours/musee-dorsay
Day Trips From Paris: https://thetourguy.com/tours/paris-day-trips

Planning a trip to Paris can feel overwhelming, but it does not have to be. In this video, Brandon Shaw from The Tour Guy walks you through exactly how to plan a Paris trip the right way, from when to go and how long to stay, to where to sleep, what to pack, and how to experience the city without feeling rushed or stressed.

This Paris travel guide covers the best seasons to visit, a realistic 4 to 5 day itinerary, must see attractions like the Louvre, Eiffel Tower, and Versailles, plus local tips on dining etiquette, transportation, and how to skip long lines. Whether it is your first time in Paris or a return trip, this guide helps you plan smarter and enjoy the City of Light like a local.

What This Video Covers:

• The best time to visit Paris, season by season
• How many days you really need in Paris
• A simple 4 day Paris itinerary that does not feel rushed
• The top things to do in Paris for first time visitors
• Louvre, Eiffel Tower, Seine River Cruise, and Versailles tips
• How to skip the lines with guided tours
• Where to stay in Paris, best neighborhoods explained
• How to get around Paris easily, metro, walking, taxis
• What to pack and what not to wear in Paris
• Paris food, dining etiquette, and must try dishes

How to Plan a Paris Trip in 2026 | Chapter Guide:
00:00 – Intro: How to plan a Paris trip
01:00 – When to visit Paris, season by season
02:48 – How many days to stay in Paris
03:04 – 4 day Paris itinerary overview
04:50 – Best things to do in Paris without overplanning
05:15 – Louvre Museum and ÎLE DE LA CITÉ
06:05 – Versailles day trip tips
06:30 – Eiffel Tower and Seine River Cruise
07:28 – Le Marais and Montmartre neighborhoods
07:58 – Hidden gems and smaller museums
08:18 – How to get to Paris, airports and trains
09:49 – Where to stay in Paris, best neighborhoods
11:32 – Getting around Paris, walking and metro
12:57 – What to pack and what to wear in Paris
14:23 – Paris food, reservations, and dining etiquette
16:33 – Final planning tips and next steps

Follow us for more travel planning guides:
• Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/TheRomanGuy
• Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/thetourguy/
• The Tour Guy – https://thetourguy.com/

🎙️ Special thanks to:
Host: Brandon Shaw
Exec Producers: Sean Finelli & Brandon Shaw
TTG Customer Service & Procurement Team