Paris
Welcome to the fabled “City of Lights” or “City of Love.” Paris is certainly both and has always been considered one of the most romantic cities in the world. Whether an artist, a businessman or a tourist, you will enjoy the long walks from Montmartre to the Quartier Latin. Going through some of the finest Roman and medieval monuments, sooner or later you will end up at a café, standing on the Pont Neuf Bridge, or exploring a vintage fashion shop in the Marais district.
THE CITY
Like New York or London, Paris is incomparable. As soon as you start exploring the world’s most visited city, you’ll feel like you are going through an open air museum. You won’t see much of the capital’s Celtic roots, but you will be able to admire its architectural splendors which go back to the 13th century, when the imposing Cathedral of Notre Dame started to be built. At that time, the swamplands forming the Marais district were drained and the Sorbonne University opened its doors. But it was during the Renaissance, in the 16th century, that Paris’ grandeur was created. Versailles became Louis XIV’s headquarters, whose lavishness opened the doors to the French luxury goods industry. And in the 19th century, Napoleon appointed Baron Haussmann to develop modern Paris, with its long boulevards, beautiful buildings and great parks that still make the city unique today. No wonder Paris is internationally renowned for its defining neoclassical architecture and its influence in fashion and the arts. Going by foot is the best way to explore the city’s districts, its old centres, cemeteries and great parks. It’s busy with thousands of tourists, but the city has managed to keep its real authenticity with places like Montmartre, a good start for a tour, or the crowded Champs-Elysées with its legendary promenade. Those who fancy a trendier atmosphere, districts such as Le Marais, Quartier Latin or the quaint Canal St-Martin are the right places to be. If you like art galleries, museums or famous cabarets such as Folies Bergères, Paris has everything to meet your dreams. It’s not as intense as London or New York, yet the combination of its historical heritage and its unique French touch makes this destination one of a kind.
Opening hours:
General opening hours are Mon –Sat 9.00-19.00. Smaller shops may close between midday and 14.00 on Monday. Sundays and public holidays closed. Many department stores have one late-night opening day – “nocturne” – when shops are open until 21.00. Supermarket times may differ depending on neighborhood. Sundays close 20.00, 21.00 or 22.00.
Electricity: 220/240 V AC, 50Hz
Internet: www.paris.org
Newspapers: Le Monde, Le Figaro, Pariscope, L’Officiel des Spectacles
Emergency numbers: 112, Fire 18 , Police 17
Tourist information:
Address: 25 rue des Pyramides
Underground: RER A Auber or
Metro 714 Pyramides
Tel: +33 (0)892 68 30 00
DO & SEE
Paris’ top attractions are certainly the Eiffel Tower, originally a “temporary” construction for the 1889 Universal Exposition the Arc de Triomphe, commissioned by Napoleon Bonaparte and the massive cathedral Notre Dame. A walk from Place de la Concorde towards Champs Elysée is also a must, as well as the world famous Louvre museum. But there is obviously much more to explore.
Père Lachaise
The largest cemetery in Paris and reputed to be the most visited in the world. A huge and peaceful park and home to many whohave enriched French life over the past 200 years.
Address: Boulevard de Ménilmontant, 20th Arr.
Underground: Line 2 Philippe Auguste
Jardin du Luxembourg
The garden of the French Senate that is also a large public park. A recommended place to relax and savour the cosmopolitan atmosphere of the rich palace garden.
Underground: RER B Luxembourg
Musée d’Orsay
This is the place for art and artifacts from the Middle Ages and Impressionist eras with leading collections. Originally a railway station, the building itself deems a visit. Closed on Mondays.
Address: 62 rue de Lille, 7th Arr.
Underground: Line 12 Solférino or RER C Musée d’Orsay
Phone: +33 (0)1 40 49 48 14
Musée des Arts d´Afrique et d´Océanie
Not as popular as Orsay or Louvre, yet worth a visit. A mix of world-class exhibitions of African and Pacific art.
Address: 293 avenue Daumesnil, 12th Arr.
Underground: Line 8 Porte dorée
Phone: +33 (0)1 44 74 84 80
Le Marais
Situated on the right bank (3rd and 4th Arr.), this is a trendy district with beautiful architecture from the 17th century. There are also many museums, art galleries and historic sites such as Paris’ oldest square Place des Vosges where you can find Victor Hugo’s residence.
Address: Bastille, Chemin Vert, Pont Marie,
Saint-Paul, Saint-Sebastien-Froissard, Sully Morland
Montmartre
One of the most popular historic areas with the Sacré Coeur Basilica on the top of the hill, the highest point in Paris. It’s famous for the cafés and studios of many great artists. And it’s easily recognizable as the filming location of the movie "Amélie". Downhill to the southwest, is the red-light district of Pigalle.
Underground: Line 12 Abbesses
Versailles
This is where King Louis XIV built his palace in the 17th century. For those who love Renaissance architecture, don’t miss it! The palace has recently been renovated and you can enjoy nice walks in the beautiful gardens.
Underground: RER C, Versailles
Phone: +33 (0)1 30 83 78 00
Bateaux Mouches
One of the most relaxing and romantic ways to view some of the city’s oldest and most majestic historic monuments is to get a ride on the famous and unique long-boats leisurely plying the Seine. Despite the number of operators from which to choose, most of the boat lines offer similar itineraries and are equipped with an audio announcement system, providing commentary on the passing sights in several different languages.
Disneyland Paris
Located only 35 minutes from Paris, it’s ideal for a day to enjoy the attractions and the magic—the place where the dreams of everyone become a reality. The Disneyland Park is inspired by Disney heritage and fairytales, and The Walt Disney Studios Park is dedicated to the world of cinema and animation. Between them, the parks offer 60 amazing attractions, shows and parades, as well as many opportunities to meet with the Disney characters. Experience numerous themed restaurants and shopping experiences. Why not use Disney’s FASTPASS to reduce the wait times at some of the most popular attractions? Open every day of the year!
Underground: REA A Marne-la-Vallée/Chessy
EATING
Paris is internationally renowned as the capital of gastronomy and boasts a huge range of eateries. Each place has its own particular atmosphere and style, whether recipes are local or from all over the world. In Paris, you must differentiate between restaurants, bistros or brassieres. A bistro is usually small, featuring simple fare, sometimes with entertainment. A brassiere serves hearty meals along with beer and wine, usually cheap and with aliquor and coffee bar. It is the right place to test the high-quality products and delights of traditional French cookery thanks to the talented and creative chefs. Parisian restaurants are real ambassadors of good taste, offering superlative ingredients—including premium wines and cheeses—enriching the experience. But don’t worry, there are good places for all budgets. Whether it’s a restaurant, a bistro, or a brassiere, you’ll be able to enjoy a real culinary feast with gourmets from all over the world!
Pierre Gagnaire
Near the Champs Elysées, this is one of the city’s most solid and appealing restaurants, ranked in the world’s top 50. Expect €80 for the lunch menu and dinner can easily run over €200 per person. Reservations are compulsory.
Address: 6, rue Balzac
Underground: Line 1 Georges V
Phone: +33 (0)1 58 36 12 50
Hotel du Nord
Hotel du Nord welcomes diners in a warm red velvet setting with suffused lighting. It is a bistro offering a variety of traditional dishes such as pan-seared foie gras with mango chutney and French toast or lightly cooked scallops with aborigine caviar.
Address: 102, quai Jemmapes
Underground: Line 3, 8, 9, 5 République
Phone: +33 (0)1 40 40 78 78
Carré des Feuillants
One of the best places for contemporary French Nouvelle cuisine, located in a 17th century building near the Tuilerie Park and Eiffel Tower. The chef, Alain Dutournier, is considered to be one of the ground breaking chefs in his category.
Address: 14, rue de Castiglione
Underground: Tuileries, Concorde, Opéra, or Madeleine
Phone: +33 (0)1 42 86 82 82
Goumard
This is the right place for seafood lovers. This reputable restaurant has been in business since 1872 and its motto is simply “Everything that comes from the sea.” In fact, the owner buys everything straight from the dock’s local fishermen. Specialties include grilled Breton lobster and scallop carpaccio with oysters.
Address: 9, rue Duphot
Underground: Line 12 Madeleine
Phone: +33 (0)1 42 60 36 07
Allard
There are still local neighborhood restaurants that serve excellent food. One of them is Allard, in the 6th Arrondissement, over on the left bank of the Seine. It is a traditional 1930s bistro, with many regulars from the same era. Try the foie gras, frog legs and other dishesthat put France on the culinary map.
Address: 41, rue St-André-des-Arts
Underground: Line 4 St Michel or Odéon
Phone: +33 (0)1 43 26 48 23
Brasserie Balzar
Yet another traditional eatery with a nice atmosphere and a traditional menu. Brassiere Balzar is a great bistro located in the lively Quartier Latin since 1898! Many of the city’s famous authors have been regulars here—a true seal of approval.
Address: 48, rue des Ecoles
Underground: Cluny La Sorbonne
Phone: +33 (0)1 43 54 13 67
Sainte Marthe
Located by a small square in the bohemian yet trendy 10th Arrondissement. This charming neighborhood tapas restaurant is run by two former schoolteachers. The outdoor seating attracts the crowds in the summer.
Address: 32, rue Sainte-Marthe
Underground: Line 2 Colonel Fabien
Phone: + 33 (0)1 44 84 36 96
Founti Agadir
Paris has many North African restaurants and one of the best is the Moroccan Founti Agadir. Located on the left bank it has a fine selection of good value couscous, tajines, and pastilla dishes.
Address: 117, rue Monge
Underground: Line 7 Gobelins et Censier Daubenton
Phone: +33 (0)1 43 37 85 10
Le Kong
The past few years have turned Le Kong into somewhat of a legend in Paris. Underneath its glass ceiling you can have a lovely dinner, grab a drink and later on dance the night away, all the while enjoying one of the most romantic views over the river Seine.
Address: 1, rue du Pont-Neuf
Underground: Pont Neuf
Phone: +33 (0)1 40 39 09 00
Alcazar
A trendy restaurant located in St Germain-des-Prés where you can taste traditional English and French dishes prepared by skilled chefs. On the second floor, you can enjoy a drink in Alcazars huge chill-out area.
Address: 62, rue Mazarine
Underground: Odéon
Phone: +33 (0)1 53 10 19 99
L´as du Falafel
On and around Rue des Rosiers you will find many delicious Middle-Eastern and Yiddish/Eastern European specialties. Be sure to make a stop at L´as du Falafel. This little restaurant claims to have the "best falafel in the world" and many agree. Expect delicious falafels accompanied by yummy hummus and tasty vegetables—to go or to stay.
Address: 34 Rue des Rosiers
Underground: St. Paul
Phone: +33 (0)1 48 87 63 60
CAFÉS
Start your day in one of Paris’ many cafés with a delicious croissant and an espresso, relax with an afternoon tea, or have an aperitif with friends. Many cafés are part of bistros and brassieres, functioning like bars and feature great music with a wide range of drinks.
Lipp
Have some cultural history with your espresso. Lipp, and neighbouring Deux Magots and Flore, were the post-war gathering spots of choice for intellectual celebrities such as Jean-Paul Sartre and Simone de Beauvoir. All of these large 6th Arrondissement cafés are usually packed to the rafters.
Address: 151, boulevard Saint Germain
Underground: Line 4 St Germain-des-Prés
Phone: +33 (0)1 45 48 53 41
Le Réservoir
Checking out other people is an important part of Parisian café culture. Trendy Le Réservoir is a prime spot for that kind of activity.
Address: 16, rue de la Forge Royale
Underground: Line 8 Ledru Rollin
Phone: +33 (0)1 43 56 39 60
Café Charbon
Located in the 11th Arrondissement, Oberkampf is one of the trendiest streets and attracts an urban crowd. It is spacious and was originally built as a dance hall around 1900. It also fits the ”Bars” section!
Address: 109, rue Oberkampf
Underground: Line 3 Parmentier
Phone: +33 (0)1 43 57 55 13
Café de La Mairie
A peaceful and traditional café located on the pleasant Place St-Sulpice facing the church. Try the large steaming grand café crème with a croissant from the bakery nearby.
Address: 8 Place Saint-Sulpice, Paris 75006
Underground: Line 4 St-Suplice
Phone: +33 (0)1 43 26 67 82
Le Pain Quotidien
This cozy and rustic café has become such an international success, it can now be found in the US, the UK and many other places. In a country-like atmosphere you can chose among a number of eco-friendly dishes and home baked breads. A Sunday brunch at Le Pain Quotidien is a favourite among Parisians.
Address: 18-20, rue de Archives
Underground: Hôtel de Ville
Phone: +33 (0)1 44 54 03 07
BARS & NIGHTLIFE
Paris’ night life offers you lots of trendy and popular bars serving all kinds of drinks with a good mix of people, music and sometimes live DJs. Paris has an intense and diversified night life. From high-tech dance clubs to mellow jazz haunts, there is always something that fits your mood. Also try the famous cabaret venues for a great dose of vibrant entertainment!
Le Favela Chic
This is a hot spot—literally speaking! The atmosphere in this Brazilian bar (and restaurant) is exotic, lively and friendly. The bar is often packed with people and can get very hot however, the bar staff has a habit of cooling the guests off with a water hose!
Address: 18 rue du Faubourg du Temple
Underground: République
Phone: + 33 (0)1 40 21 38 14
Nèo
During the past few years Nèo has been one of the trendiest nightclubs in Paris, and it is still going strong. This small nightclub is a good place for celebrity and model spotting. Needless to say, the door policy is strict, so dress to impress and/or show up early.
Address: 23 Rue de Ponthieu
Underground: Saint-Philippe-du-Roule
Phone: +33 (0)1 42 25 57 14
La Perle
La Perle is a favourite amongst the “bohemian chic” Parisians as well as international stylists, artists, models and so on. It’s a perfect place to start your evening at, or to just have a conversation over a glass of wine. Though it is often crowded, it has a homely and friendly atmosphere.
Address: 78 rue Vieille du Temple
Phone: +33 (0)1 42 72 69 93
Le Scherkhan
There are several popular spots in Oberkampf Street such as Le Scherkhan. It might not be politically correct, but, alluding to the name, it has a stuffed tiger, which keeps a close eye on people in the comfortable armchairs.
Address: rue Oberkampf
Underground: Line 3 Parmentier
Phone: +33 (0)1 43 57 29 34
Le Nouveau Casino
This is also a famous venue that keeps on rocking until dawn—both in the bar downstairs and the medium-size dancehall upstairs.
Address: 109 rue Oberkampf
Underground: Line 3 Parmentier
Phone: +33 (0)1 43 57 57 40
Buddha Bar
This temple-like establishment is still very popular for its ambience at the cocktail bar. Top DJs deliver mood-setting tunes and the globally famous venue has spawned franchises all over the world.
Address: 8 rue Boissy d’Anglais
Underground: Concorde
Phone: +33 (0)1 53 05 90 00
Point Ephémère
Canal Saint-Martin in the 10th Arrondissement is a trendy area colonized by artists and young creative workers seduced by its lazy charm. You’ll find several nice venues such as L’Atmosphère, Chez Prune or Le Repaire.
Address: 200 Quai de Valmy
Underground: Line 7bis Jaurès or Louis Blanc
Phone: +33 (0)1 40 34 02 48
Le Queen
Le Queen is a famous place, located on the Champs-Elysées. It is the place to groove and be beautiful. And it’s not strictly gay as people usually think. You’ll also meet celebrities and people from creative fields.
Address: 102 avenue des Champs-Elysées
Underground: Line 1 Georges V
Phone: +33 (0)1 53 89 08 90
Rex Club
This renowned electro club has always drawn a crowd since the mid-1980s. It is home to a terrific sound system with top international acts. Expect long lines at the doors, especially for Friday’s events.
Address: 5 bd Poissonnière
Underground: Line 9/8 Bonne Nouvelle
Phone: +33 (0)1 42 36 10 96
Le Bilboquet
Welcome to Paris’ historic Jazz spot, where the Paris Blues movie was shot. Past performers includes the Gilda Galas and the Stephane Guerault Quartets.
Address: 13 rue Saint Benoît
Underground: Line 4 St Germain-Des-Prés
Phone: +33 (0)1 45 48 81 84
Moulin Rouge
A cornerstone of Paris’ night life are the Cabarets. Lido, Crazy Horse and Follies Bergères are all famous worldwide, but maybe the most famous—Moulin Rouge, is unique for its elegant shows. Not to be missed!
Address: Bal du Moulin Rouge ®, Montmartre, 82 boulevard de Clichy
Underground: Blanche
Phone: +33 (0)1 53 09 82 82
SHOPPING
Shopping in Paris means famous designers and luxurious brands. But you’ll also find more affordable brands matching your budget in the huge department stores or many popular neighborhoods. There are famous gastronomical establishments forgourmets, too.
Right Bank – 1st & 8th Arrondissements
As a suggestion, you could start at Le Carrousel Du Louvre, a diverse underground shopping precinct adjoining the famous museum. Whether you’re looking for music, gifts, perfumes or clothing, you’ll find a number of well-known stores that deliver quality merchandise and ease of purchase. Nearby Rue de Rivoli is notable for the vast number of souvenir shops. At 248, W.H. Smith is the largest English language bookshop in Paris with many of the newest releases. Right off Rivoli is the beautiful Place Vendôme, where the jet-setters and millionaires buy their jewellery. You are entering ”the” area for renowned Haute Couture and luxury goods. From there, you can enjoy a walk down to Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré and Avenue Montaigne where the superb boutiques display their sophisticated or baroque windows. Women will particularly like Colette at 213 Rue St-Honoré, one of the most interesting shopping experiences anywhere—an eclectic collection of fresh-off-the-runway design, fashion, gadgets and music. Men can try Charvet on Place Vendôme, the oldest and best known boutique in Paris selling top quality ties and shirts. Hermès and Lanvin on Faubourg Saint-Honoré, and Jil Sander on Avenue Montaigne, are also among the best for one-stop shopping for men on the go. At 11 Rue Royale, Lalique has become a reference throughout the world for the beauty and quality of its Cristal designs collections, tableware, and decorative glass objects. In the same area, gourmets will find the foremost of French delicatessen atFauchon (Place de la Madeleine), or Granterroirs (Rue Miromesnil).
Les Grands Boulevards (Hausmann)
In the 1st and 2nd Arrondissements, this is undoubtedly the most popular shopping area, home to prestigious department stores such as Printemps and Galeries Lafayette. They are remarkable for the wide range of items sold, as well as for their Art Nouveau architecture. You’ll find a world of ready-to-wear, with appealing boutiques and affordable brands. You can start with a nice walk from the beautiful Opéra Palais Garnier down to the stores on Boulevard Hausmann.
Les Halles and Marais
Les Halles is similar to London’s Covent Garden, located in the city centre, right between the Louvre and Notre Dame. The shopping mall Forum des Halles features a heap of good shopping spots in a fascinating and crowded underground complex. It’s a good source for affordable clothing. Not far away, the Jewish neighbourhood Le Marais, carries manyhandicraft and antique shops and is always an interesting visit.
Champs-Elysées
This tourist strip has lots of fast food chains, banks, airline offices, cinemas and malls such as the futuristic Drugstore Publicis near Arc de Triomphe, or Gallerie Marchande des Champs-Elysées near Georges V station. The Guerlain Parfumerie, with its turn-of-the century elegance and curved staircase, as well as the neo-classical Virgin Megastore, a huge retail haven for recorded music and books, are worth a stop.
Along the Seine River
One of the most charming shopping activities in Paris consists of walking along the rows of bookstalls perched against the parapet of the Seine River. Here, if you have time and good bargaining skills, you may find some ancient and valuable tomes or collections of old stamps.
Le Bon Marché
This is the oldest and most prominent retail establishment, the top destination for fashion and style. Designer apparel for men and women, cosmetics, and house wares comprise the major departments. There’s even an impressive food hall!
Address: 22 rue de Sèvres
Underground: Line 10/12 Sèvres-Babylone
Phone: +33 (0)1 44 39 80 00
Galeries Lafayette
The most spectacular department store with its unique stained-glass dome. You will find the most prestigious designer and cosmetics labels, and the largest European space entirely devoted to men’s fashion. Also home to huge toy, jewellery, house ware and delicatessen departments.
Address: 40 bd Haussmann
Underground: Chaussée-d’Antin
Phone: +33 (0)1 42 82 34 56
Printemps Hausmann
Like its rival Lafayette, it’s distinguished by amazing architecture and has everything—women’s, men’s, and children’s fashions. It’s a modern and trendy store. The beauty department highlights over 200 brand names.
Address: 64, boulevard Haussmann
Underground: Havre-Caumartin, RER A Auber
Phone: +33 (0)1 42 82 57 87
Bazar de l’Hôtel de Ville
BHV is a little less trendy, yet definitely worth mentioning. It has a good range of house wares and home improvement items, as well as useful and beautiful domestic goods. They also carry a decent selection of clothing and accessories.
Address: 52-54 rue de Rivoli
Underground: Line 1/11 Hôtel de Ville
Phone: +33 (0)1 42 74 90 00
Marché aux Puces de Clignancourt
This world renowned flea market on the northern part of Paris attracts over 70,000 Parisians every weekend to find terrific bargains from vintage clothing to antique furniture.
Address: Porte de Clignancourt
Underground: Line 4 Porte de Clignacourt
SLEEPING
Paris has the world’s widest choice of hotels with a full range of prices, offering something for everyone. Over 80,000 rooms in sumptuous sophistication, or cool and cozy spots. Expect a lovely experience in smaller, more personalized atmosphere hotels.
Hôtel de Crillon - Exclusive
One of the oldest and most exclusive hotels in the world. Overlooking the luxurious Place de la Concorde, it seduces royalty, wealthy foreigners, diplomats on expense accounts and movie stars.
Address: 10 Place de la Concorde
Underground: Concorde
Phone: +33 (0)1 44 71 15 00
Hôtel Costes
The hotel, in a converted townhouse, is located close to some of Paris’ most upscale shops. Costes evokes the imperial heyday of Napoleon III. It is one of Paris’ trendiest hotels, a favourite for many fashion headliners. The suites are spacious, with theme designs such as “Moroccan Nights”.
Address: 239 rue Saint-Honoré
Underground: Line 1 Tuileries or Concorde
Phone: +33 (0)1 42 44 50 00
Hôtel de Fleurie - Good Value
This is a nice three-star-hotel in the heart of St-Germain-des-Prés. Large rooms with high ceilings, decorated in a flowery and romantic style. The many connecting rooms with two large beds makes it perfect for families.
Address: 32-34 rue Grégoire de Tours
Underground: Line 4, 10 Odéon
Phone: +33 (0)1 53 73 70 00
Résidence Lord Byron
Just a few steps from the Champs-Elysées, this is a very elegant hotel with an inner garden, a typical Parisian lounge and spacious suites.
Address: 5 rue de Chateaubriand
Underground: Line 1 Georges
Phone: +33 (0)1 43 59 89 98
Hôtel du Quai Voltaire
This is one of the best hotels for views of the Seine. It’s also rich in history: originally a 17th century abbey that was transformed into a hotel in 1856. Famous people like Oscar Wilde, Baudelaire and Wagner have stayed here.
Address: 19 Quai Voltaire
Underground: RER C Musée d’Orsay
Phone: +33 (0)1 42 61 50 91
Les Deux Accacias - Basic
Very well located on a quiet street just nearby the Champs-Elysées and the Arc de Triomphe. This charming two star hotel has 30 rooms decorated in pastel shades, comfortable and with no pretension. A very good value in this category.
Address: 28, rue de l’Arc de Triomphe
Underground: RER A Charles de Gaulle Etoile
Phone: +33 (0)1 43 80 01 85
Hôtel El Dorado
One of the most charming budget hotels. Bohemian proprietor Anna Gratacos has decorated all 40 rooms individually, some with African fabrics, others with flea market finds. Also try the great food at Bistro des Dames, part of the hotel.
Address: 18 rue des Dame
Underground: Line 2, 13 Place de Clichy
Phone: +33 (0)1 45 22 35 21
Mije Hostels
A group of three budget hotels located in ancient aristocratic townhouses in the Marais district.
Address: 12 rue des Barres / 11 rue du Fauconnier / 6 rue de Fourcy
Underground: Line 1 St Paul or Line 7 Pont Marie
Phone: +33 (0)1 42 74 23 45
ESSENTIAL INFORMATION
Airports
Paris is served by two major airports, Roissy Charles de Gaulle (CDG), 25 Km from the city centre and Orly, 15 Km from the city centre. A third airport, Paris Beauvais, is mainly served by low cost airlines. A shuttle service (€13) is organized to and from its terminals and Paris-Porte Maillot. From CDG terminals, the Roissy bus leaves every 15 minutes from 6.00 and arrives at the city centre (at Opéra) after a 45-60 minutes journey (€8.90 one way). After midnight there are night busses going to Place du Châtelet, 90 rue de Rivoli every 30 minutes (€8 one way). The cheapest and fastest (30 minutes) is the underground RER B to Gare du Nord running from 4.56 in the morning to 23.56 in the night (€8.40 one way). From Gare du Nord you are connected to Paris’ metro network. Air France buses go to Porte Maillot and Etoile (every 15 minutes, €15 one way) and taxis can be found near the terminals’ baggage collection area exits. Average day fares are €50. From Orly, the automatic metro Orlyval takes you to RER B Antony station from 6.00 to 23.00. Combined ticket price (Metro+RER+Orlyval) is about €9. The other option (and cheaper) are the airport shuttle buses going to RER C Pont de Rungis station. Combined ticket price (Metro+RER+shuttle) is around €5.60. As for buses, the Orly bus takes you straight to RER B Denfert-Rochereau. Daytime taxi rates are approximately €35.
Public transport
The RATP runs the city’s local transport system. It is cheap and efficient. The bus, underground (metro) and commuter train system (RER) is divided into five zones. The underground runs from 5:30 in the morning to 0:30 in the night. Tickets are valid on both buses and trains, and can be purchased from the stations and in kiosks. Travel cards, ranging from one to five days, are also available at the airport, at underground stations and from tourist information offices. 1 day travel card zone 1-3 costs approximately €9.
Phone: +33 (0)8 92 69 32 46
Bateau Bus
Experience Paris from the Seine by using the river as an original means of transport!
Taxi
Taxis can be hailed at stands or on the street, but they can be hard to find, especially on Friday and Saturday evenings. Beware of fake cabs at the airports!
Abeille Radio Taxi, Phone: +33 (0)1 45 83 59 33
Alpha Taxis, Phone: +33 (0)1 45 85 85 85
Taxi Bleus, Phone: +33 (0)1 49 36 10 10
Post
Stamps are available from kiosks and news agents. For mail overseas, it is advisable to visit a post office. The central post and sorting office of the Louvre is open 24 hours a day.
Address: 52 rue du Louvre
Underground: Louvre
Phone: +33 (0)140 28 20 00
Pharmacy
Pharmacie Les Champs Elysées
Address: 84 avenue des Champs Elysées
Underground: George V
Phone: +33 (0)1 45 62 02 41
Dentist / Doctor
Should you have a medical problem your best bet is to contact the American Hospital in Neuilly on the West edge of Paris.
Address: 63 boulevard Victor Hugo Neuilly sur Seine
Underground: Line 3 Pont de Levallois station
Phone: +33 (0)1 46 41 25 25
