Paris is best in shoulder season when the cafés spill onto pavements and you don't queue 90 minutes for the Louvre. Skip the bus tour and walk.
Where to stay
Le Marais (3rd/4th) for charm and walkability, Saint-Germain (6th) for classic Paris, or Canal Saint-Martin (10th) for a younger, edgier base.
How to get there
Eurostar from St Pancras to Gare du Nord in 2h20 — city centre to city centre, no airport faff. Or fly to CDG/Orly from any UK city.
Don't miss
Coffee and pastry at Du Pain et des Idées, a Wednesday-morning visit to the Musée d'Orsay, and dinner at a bistrot — try Bouillon Pigalle for old-school value.
Highlights
- Musée d'Orsay
- Le Marais wandering
- Seine sunset
- Day trip to Versailles
What to pack for Paris
Tried-and-tested kit. Links go to Amazon UK.
- Compact travel adapter
- Anti-theft crossbody bag
- Packing cubes (set of 6)
- Comfortable walking trainers
- Compact umbrella
- Slim travel wallet (RFID)
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