Paris City Breaks

Paris at a glance

Paris is one of the most visited cities in the world, a must-see destination which embraces a romantic image. This timeless city offers some of the best sightseeing, art, fashion, and dining experiences in Europe with a distinctive “je ne sais quoi” allure. A seemingly endless array of charming cafés, patisseries and creperies are there to tempt you. Restaurants neatly line the streets, with many offering open air dining, ask your front desk staff for their personal favourite to help you decide where to eat. 

Things to do in Paris

The most popular sights of the city are found within the first 8, most central arrondissements.

• The Eiffel Tower: This famous structure is the iconic symbol of Paris. Enjoy the 360-degree panoramic view from the top.
• The Louvre: Arguably the world's greatest art museum and home to the Mona Lisa.
• Musée d'Orsay: The largest collection of Impressionist and Post Impressionist paintings in the world.
• Sacré-Coeur: Located in Montmartre, the 'artists' district, the white basilica enjoys stunning views over Paris.
• The Pompidou Centre: The celebrated centre for contemporary art. 
• Notre Dame: A masterpiece of French gothic architecture which stands on an island in the middle of the Seine.
• L'Arc de Triomphe: The impressive centrepiece of the world's largest roundabout and the meeting point of 12 avenues.
• Jardin de Luxembourg: Wander the formal terraces and chestnut groves of this beautiful park. A great place to people-watch. 
• Latin Quarter: Stroll round the cafes and second hand book and clothing shops of this of this lively, bohemian area.
• Champs Élysées: Wander down this world-famous avenue between the Arc de Triomphe and the Tuileries Gardens.

We can book many tours to make your trip to Paris truly memorable, visit our Osprey Experiences page for more information or contact on our team.

Getting Around

Given the size of the city, the quickest way to get around is via the Métro system (on a par with the London underground). However, as many of the main tourist attractions are in the central arrondissements, it’s easy to stroll between sights whilst stopping to enjoy a little pavement café culture.

Dining in Paris

Eating out in Paris will delight the most discerning diner. From Michelin starred restaurants, typically there are over 100 in the city at any time, to charming bistros and cafes the French take their food very seriously. This means that there is something to suit all tastes and budgets and early evening specials are common. Our tip: choose a bottle of house wine or a carafe as they will generally be highly recommended by the serving team.

Must-try local dishes

• Bistro fare - soupe à l’oignonne, steak tartare, croque-monseiur and duck confit
• Unmissable French sweet treats: crème brulée, iles flottantes, macaroons at one of Ladurée’s tearooms and mille feuille pastries at La Maison Angelina

Shopping in Paris

Known as the Capital of Fashion, Paris is home to many of the world’s top design houses so high end retail therapy is well taken care of. Galeries Lafayette is one of France’s most famous department stores and you can lose yourself for hours here. The shopping along the Champs Elyse will satisfy those looking for more regular high street names.

Osprey Holidays top tip

Choose how long you wish to stay in Paris and then add another night. There will never be enough time to do everything in the city and being left wanting more is a good thing, but give yourself time to relax in to the city and enjoy its delights.