Paris

There are good reasons songs have been written about Paris in the springtime: It’s downright lovely. Autumn is equally nice. Both seasons see somewhat fewer crowds and lower prices than the peak summer months, though keep in mind that as one of the most visited cities in the world, it’s almost always busy here. If you don’t mind the chilly weather, winter is also a quieter season for travel.

Visas

E.U. nationals don’t need a visa to enter France. U.S., Canadian, Australian, New Zealand and South African citizens do not need a visa for trips of up to 3 months. Travelers from non-E.U. countries are required to show a valid passport.

Money

French currency is the euro. ATMs are widely available and credit cards are accepted by most businesses.

Travel Health

Check with the French government website for the latest health safety information, including travel protocols and requirements like negative COVID-19 tests, quarantines, mask mandates and more in connection with COVID-19. Before traveling, research and prepare for what to do if you get sick while away.

Getting Here

Paris is served by two international airports: Aéroport d’Orly (ORY) and Aéroport Roissy-Charles-de-Gaulle (CDG). The city also has six major train stations: Gare du Nord, Gare d’Austerlitz, Gare de Lyon, Gare Montparnasse, Gare Saint-Lazare and Gare de l’Est.

Getting Around

The Paris Metro and RER trains are quick, convenient and inexpensive. Still, Paris will always be best explored aboveground — and slowly, so do plan to traverse it on foot or wheels as much as possible. Bike shares, like those offered by Vélib, are easy to secure, or for a unique perspective along the Seine, try the Batobus ferry system. Taxis are most easily secured via taxi stands; or try using Heetch, a French competitor to Uber.