In this guide, you will find everything you need to know about what to do in Paris, where to stay for every budget and travel style, how much it costs to travel there in 2026, practical expenses like visa and food costs, compares Paris with other popular destinations, and real reviews of hotels and tours. The language is easy to read, detailed, and perfect for planning a trip or publishing as travel content.
— Travelardor
Best Things to Do in Paris — A Journey Through Culture, Views, and Memories
When you arrive in Paris, you will quickly see why it’s often called the City of Light. At every turn there is a new experience waiting — history, art, shopping, and dining.
One of the most iconic sights is the Eiffel Tower. Rising elegantly above the city, this iron lattice tower gives visitors incredible panoramic views. During the day, the city spreads beneath you in rooftops and avenues, and at night the tower shimmers with thousands of lights. You can buy tickets to go up by elevator or climb some of the stairs if you want a slightly cheaper option — whatever you choose, standing at the top is unforgettable.
Not far from the Eiffel Tower are the tree-lined paths along the River Seine. Walking beside this river in the early morning or at sunset is peaceful and beautiful. You will see couples walking hand in hand, artists sketching, and boats gliding slowly along the water. In the evening, a Seine river cruise offers the chance to see illuminated bridges and monuments from a unique perspective — it’s especially romantic for couples.
“One of the most relaxing experiences in Paris is simply spending time in parks like the Luxembourg Gardens. With its fountains, flowers, and shaded walkways, it’s a perfect place for a picnic or a slow morning reading a book.”
Best Hotels in Paris for Every Traveler — From Luxury to Boutique Stays
Choosing where to stay in Paris makes a big difference in your trip experience. Because Paris is a large city with many unique neighborhoods, finding the right hotel can help you enjoy your time even more.
The Four Seasons Hotel George V has been one of Paris’s most prestigious addresses for decades, bringing together luxury rooms, Michelin-star restaurants, and first-class service right in the heart of Paris.
Another ultra-luxury choice is the Hôtel de Crillon, a historic property with a rich past that faces the beautiful Place de la Concorde and offers lavish rooms, fine dining, and a classic Paris ambiance.
For travelers who want a mix of luxury and contemporary design, the Mandarin Oriental, Paris in the 1st arrondissement gives you a modern boutique vibe with excellent service and a location close to the Louvre and high-end shopping streets.
If you prefer a hotel that blends tradition, style, and romance, Maison Souquet near Montmartre offers beautifully styled rooms inspired by Belle Époque Paris, giving couples and honeymooners a uniquely romantic environment.
For travelers who want an elegant stay near the most famous landmark, the Canopy by Hilton Paris Eiffel Tower offers modern rooms and a rooftop bar with incredible views of the Eiffel Tower — perfect for couples or families who want convenience and style within walking distance of major sights.
“One of the best ways to save money on accommodation is to stay in hostels. Paris hostels offer basic but clean dorm beds and sometimes private rooms with shared bathroom facilities. Shared dorm beds in hostels can cost as little as €25–50 per night, which makes them popular with backpackers and young travelers.”
First: The price of your flight will depend on your home country and the season you travel. Travelers from Asia or North America often pay several hundred euros for a round-trip ticket, though exact prices vary by airport and deals available at the time of booking. While exact flight costs fluctuate throughout the year, discounts and special fares are often available if you book months in advance.
Paris Travel Budget for a 7-Day Trip — Detailed Planning
Planning your budget means deciding how you want to experience the city and then estimating costs realistically. Here are three example travel budgets that help you plan your 7-day stay in Paris.
1. Budget Traveler
A budget traveler focuses on saving money but still wants to see the best of Paris. You might choose a hostel or affordable hotel, eat from boulangeries or cafés, use public transport, and enjoy free or low-cost attractions. For a 7-day stay, the total cost for accommodation, food, transport, and activities can easily range from €490 to €700, depending on your specific choices.
2. Mid-Range Traveler
If you want more comfort — perhaps a mid-range hotel, meals in sit-down cafés, and a few paid attractions — your daily spend will rise. Mid-range travelers often budget around €225 to €300 per day, which can total approximately €1,575 to €2,100 for a week.
3. Luxury Traveler
For those who want first-class experiences with fine dining, premium accommodation, and private tours, a luxury budget can exceed €4,000 for a week. These travelers enjoy top-level comfort and exclusive experiences.
No matter which budget you choose, careful planning and booking ahead often save money — especially for flights and hotels.
Paris or Barcelona — Which Is Cheaper?
Paris and Barcelona are both beloved European cities, but Barcelona is usually cheaper overall. Accommodation, food, and many attractions in Barcelona tend to cost less than in Paris. That said, Paris still offers good value if you plan carefully, especially using public transport, free museums certain days, and budget restaurants. For travelers whose priority is cost savings, Barcelona is generally more budget-friendly, while Paris offers a richer variety of classic European experiences.