Paris is one of the most famous and desired cities in the world. Known as the City of Light, the French capital combines historic landmarks, world-renowned museums, exceptional cuisine, charming neighborhoods, and a unique atmosphere that attracts visitors throughout the year.
Besides visiting iconic attractions such as the Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, Arc de Triomphe, and Notre-Dame Cathedral, Paris is also an excellent base for exploring other destinations in France. Thanks to the high-speed train network, you can easily take day trips to places such as Versailles, Giverny, Reims, and even other European cities.
We have visited Paris and we can say: the city has an energy unlike any other. Walking along the Seine River, having coffee at a small boulangerie, and exploring neighborhoods like Montmartre and Le Marais are just as much part of the experience as visiting the famous landmarks.
In this complete guide, you will find everything you need to plan your trip with confidence. Use the menu above to access the other sections of our guide, including information about weather, transportation, attractions, accommodation, and food.
Quick information about Paris
- Country: France
- Region: Île-de-France
- Language: French (English is common in tourist areas)
- Currency: Euro (€)
- Plug type: Type C and E
- Visa: Brazilians do not need a visa for tourism stays of up to 90 days within the Schengen Area
Frequently asked questions about Paris
Do I need to speak French to visit Paris?
It is not mandatory to speak French to visit Paris, but learning a few basic words can make your trip much easier.
At hotels, tourist attractions, famous stores, and many restaurants in central areas, English usually works well. However, in traditional cafés and smaller establishments, it is more common to find service only in French.
Our tip is to learn a few simple expressions such as bonjour (good morning), merci (thank you), and s'il vous plaît (please). French people appreciate when visitors make an effort to speak a few words in the local language.
We also recommend downloading Google Translate before your trip and making French available offline.
Additionally, traveling with mobile internet makes it much easier to use maps, translation apps, public transportation, and reservations during your trip.
A practical option is Airalo, our eSIM partner .
Do Brazilians need a visa for Paris?
No. Brazilians can travel to Paris and other Schengen Area countries without a visa for tourism stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
For immigration, we recommend having:
- Valid passport;
- Proof of accommodation;
- Return flight ticket;
- Proof of financial means;
- Travel insurance: mandatory for entering the Schengen Area.
Check our complete articles:
How many days are enough to visit Paris?
To visit the main attractions in Paris, we recommend at least 4 full days.
- 3 days: Main attractions such as the Eiffel Tower, Louvre, Notre-Dame, and Montmartre.
- 4 to 5 days: Ideal time to explore neighborhoods, museums, and enjoy the city at a slower pace.
- 6 days or more: Allows you to include day trips such as Versailles, Giverny, and Reims.
Is Paris a good base for exploring other places?
Yes! One of the biggest advantages of Paris is its excellent location and railway connections. The city has one of the best transportation networks in Europe, making it easy to visit other destinations in France on day trips.
Besides exploring Paris, you can also visit palaces, historic towns, and famous regions near the French capital.
Some of the most popular day trips from Paris are:
-
Palace of Versailles
One of France's most famous attractions. The former royal palace impresses visitors with its luxurious rooms, Hall of Mirrors, and enormous gardens designed during the reign of Louis XIV. -
Château de Chantilly
One of the most beautiful castles near Paris. Besides its impressive architecture, it features gardens, an important art collection, and a completely different atmosphere from Versailles. -
Giverny
A small French village known for Claude Monet's house and gardens. It is an excellent choice, especially during spring when the gardens are in full bloom. -
Reims and the Champagne region
Located about 45 minutes by high-speed train from Paris, Reims is famous for Notre-Dame de Reims Cathedral and its traditional Champagne houses.
Versailles tour from Paris
If you prefer visiting Versailles with organized transportation and a guide, there are tours departing from Paris that include round-trip transportation and make the experience much easier.
How much does a trip to Paris cost?
Paris is one of the most expensive cities in Europe, especially when it comes to accommodation and restaurants in central areas. However, with planning, it is possible to enjoy the city with different travel budgets.
- Budget: €70–120 per day
- Mid-range: €150–250 per day
- Comfortable: €300+ per day
One advantage of Paris is that many attractions can be enjoyed from the outside for free. Walking along the Seine, exploring historic neighborhoods, and visiting famous squares are all part of the experience without spending anything.
Additionally, some museums and attractions offer free admission on certain days or times, making it possible to save money with good planning.
How much does a meal cost in Paris?
A meal at a traditional restaurant usually costs between €20 and €35 per person.
To save money, a great option is to enjoy the traditional formule du jour, offered by many restaurants during lunch. It usually includes a starter, main course, or dessert for a fixed price.
Another way to spend less is buying products from boulangeries and local markets. A breakfast with a croissant, fresh bread, and coffee can cost less than €10 and is part of the authentic Parisian experience.
Tipping is not mandatory in France, as service is usually already included in the bill. However, rounding up the amount or leaving a few euros when the service was excellent is appreciated.
How much does transportation cost in Paris?
Paris has one of the best public transportation networks in Europe. The metro is the main way to move around the city and connects almost all major tourist attractions.
- Single metro ticket: around €2.15
- Daily pass: available depending on the zones selected
- Navigo weekly pass: an interesting option for travelers staying several days and using public transportation frequently
For tourists, our recommendation is to evaluate how many trips you will make each day. Many central areas of Paris are perfect for exploring on foot, especially neighborhoods such as Le Marais, Saint-Germain-des-Prés, and Montmartre.
Continue planning your trip to Paris
Now that you know the basic information about the city, continue planning your trip with the next sections of our complete Paris guide.
- When to visit Paris Weather, seasons, and the best time to travel.
- How to get to Paris Airports, flights, trains, and transportation to the city center.
- What to do in Paris Main attractions, museums, neighborhoods, and city itinerary.
- Where to stay in Paris Best neighborhoods, areas, and tips for choosing accommodation.
- Where to eat in Paris Restaurants, cafés, boulangeries, and French cuisine.
