Things to Do in Paris: 9 Spots From Paris’ Most Luxurious

Researched by Varedelo

Planning notes for Paris

Must-try foods in Paris

• Croissant au Beurre
  Croissant au BeurreThe quintessential Parisian breakfast staple. In 2026, the 'best croissant in Greater Paris' title was awarded to Boulangerie du Sentier (75002), recognized for its perfect 'alvéolage' (honeycomb interior) and rich PDO Charentes-Poitou butter flavor. It remains the gold standard for the city's flaky, golden morning ritual.
• Oeufs Mayo (Eggs with Mayonnaise)
  Oeufs Mayo (Eggs with Mayonnaise)A bistro classic that has seen a massive resurgence as a 'cool' starter. Often ranked by the Association de Sauvegarde de l'Oeuf Mayo, the 2026 favorite is found at Grande Brasserie, where the eggs are served with a world-class, creamy emulsion and often elevated with seasonal garnishes like truffle or herbs.
• Steak Frites with Béarnaise
  Steak Frites with BéarnaiseThe ultimate comfort dish of the Parisian brasserie. While many favor the legendary Le Relais de l'Entrecôte, 2026 trends point toward Bistrot Paul Bert, where the steak is sourced from top-tier butchers and served with thick-cut, hand-fried potatoes and a punchy, buttery sauce.
• Soufflé (Savory & Sweet)
  Soufflé (Savory & Sweet)A technical masterpiece experiencing a major 2026 revival. Iconic spots like Le Récamier and Le Soufflé remain the go-to for airy, puffed creations ranging from a decadent Comté cheese version to grand dessert soufflés flavored with Grand Marnier or dark chocolate.
• Pâté en Croûte
  Pâté en CroûteA traditional charcuterie staple that has become a competitive art form in Paris. This chilled meat pie encased in a pastry crust is a must-order at trending bistros like Arnaud Nicolas, where the intricate 'marquetry' of meats and jellies is considered a gastronomic work of art.
• Duck Confit (Confit de Canard)
  Duck Confit (Confit de Canard)A southwestern French import that is now an inseparable part of the Paris bistro scene. For 2026, La Jacobine in the Latin Quarter is highly recommended by locals for its fall-off-the-bone tender duck leg, slow-cooked in its own fat and served with sarladaise potatoes.

Trip guide

• About Paris
  About ParisParis is a city with a documented history spanning over 2,000 years, evolving from a Celtic settlement on the Île de la Cité to a center of European administration and culture. Its architectural heritage includes structures from the Gallo-Roman period, such as the Arènes de Lutèce, to the Gothic style of the Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris, which reopened to the public in late 2024 following restoration.
• When to go
  When to goThe best time to visit Paris is during the shoulder seasons of April to June and September to October, when the weather is mild and the city's gardens are in full bloom or vibrant autumn color. Summer (July and August) brings peak crowds, higher prices, and occasional heatwaves, while winter offers the lowest rates and festive holiday lights despite the cold, grey skies. For the best balance of manageable queues and pleasant walking weather, aim for late spring or early fall.
• Getting around
  Getting around Paris

  • International Air Travel Most travelers arrive via Charles de Gaulle (CDG) or Orly (ORY) airports, which are connected to the city center by the RER B train line, RoissyBus shuttles, or official taxi ranks.
  • Paris Métro and RER Train System The extensive underground network consists of 16 lines serving the city interior, complemented by RER regional trains that reach suburban areas like Versailles and Disneyland Paris.
  • Eurostar and High-Speed Rail Paris is a major European rail hub with stations like Gare du Nord and Gare de Lyon providing direct high-speed connections to London, Brussels, Amsterdam, and various French cities.
• Local tips
  Local tips

  • Always greet shopkeepers with a polite 'Bonjour' upon entering and 'Merci, au revoir' when leaving to avoid being perceived as rude.
  • Request 'une carafe d'eau' to receive free tap water at restaurants, as bottled water is often expensive.
  • Validate your transport ticket before boarding and keep it until you exit the station to avoid heavy fines from undercover inspectors.
• What’s new
  What’s new in Paris

  • The opening of the new Fondation Cartier pour l'art contemporain at Place du Palais-Royal, a major cultural hub designed by Jean Nouvel.
  • Urban swimming in the Seine, with three supervised spots (Louis-Philippe Bridge, Pont de Grenelle, and Quai de Bercy) officially open for the 2026 summer season.
• Visit Paris Region↗
  Visit Paris RegionThe official tourism website for Paris and the Île-de-France region, providing travel guides, event information, and visitor services.