Action Bronson in Rue du Grand Prieuré, Paris

Researched by Varedelo

Planning notes for Paris

Must-try foods in Paris

• Croissant au Beurre
  Croissant au BeurreThe quintessential Parisian breakfast pastry, characterized by its golden, flaky exterior and airy, honeycomb interior. In 2026, the trend has shifted back to the 'croissant de boulangerie'—hand-laminated with high-quality AOC French butter—at artisanal hotspots like Du Pain et des Idées or the newly acclaimed La Tour des Délices.
• Steak Frites with Entrecôte Sauce
  Steak Frites with Entrecôte SauceA staple of the Parisian bistro scene, featuring a tender rib-eye or sirloin steak served with a mountain of golden, thin-cut fries. While traditional, the 2026 favorite remains the version at Le Relais de l'Entrecôte, famous for its secret green herb-and-butter sauce and the tradition of serving a second portion automatically.
• Escargots de Bourgogne
  Escargots de BourgogneLand snails prepared in the traditional Burgundian style, baked in their shells with a rich stuffing of garlic, parsley, and high-quality butter. A favorite among locals and adventurous travelers alike, particularly at historic institutions like L'Escargot Montorgueil where they are served in dozens or half-dozens.
• Duck Confit (Confit de Canard)
  Duck Confit (Confit de Canard)Duck leg slow-cooked in its own fat until the meat is fall-off-the-bone tender and the skin is shatteringly crisp. In 2026, it is frequently served with 'pommes sarladaises' (potatoes sautéed in duck fat with garlic) at classic bistros like Le Bistrot Paul Bert.
• Paris-Brest
  Paris-BrestA classic French pastry made of choux dough filled with a rich praline-flavored mousseline cream and topped with flaked almonds. While traditional, it has seen a massive resurgence in 2026 as pastry chefs like Cédric Grolet and those at Ritz Paris Le Comptoir have reimagined it with liquid praline centers.
• Steak Tartare
  Steak TartareRaw, high-quality beef finely chopped or minced and seasoned with capers, onions, parsley, and a raw egg yolk. Parisians take pride in the quality of the meat, often ordering it 'préparé' (mixed by the waiter) at neighborhood brasseries where it is served with a side of spicy mustard and frites.

Trip guide

• About Paris
  About ParisParis is the capital of France, located in the north-central part of the country on the banks of the Seine River. Its origins trace to the 3rd century BC as a settlement of the Parisii tribe, later becoming the Roman city of Lutetia. By the 12th century, it had emerged as a political and cultural center of the French kingdom.
• When to go
  When to goThe best time to visit Paris is during the shoulder seasons of late spring (April to June) or fall (September to October), when the weather is mild and the city's gardens and cafes are at their most vibrant. While summer offers the warmest temperatures and longest days, it is the peak tourist season characterized by heavy crowds and high prices. For the best value and fewer queues, consider the off-peak winter months (November to February).
• Getting around
  Getting around Paris

  • Air Travel via CDG or Orly Major international flights land at Charles de Gaulle (CDG) or Orly (ORY). From CDG, the RER B train provides a direct 35-minute link to central hubs like Gare du Nord and Châtelet-Les Halles.
  • Paris Métro and RER Network The extensive underground system consists of 16 lines serving over 300 stations. It is the most efficient way to navigate the city, with trains running from 5:30 AM until approximately 1:15 AM daily.
  • Eurostar and TGV High-Speed Rail Paris is a central European rail hub connected by Eurostar from London and TGV from domestic cities. Trains arrive at central stations like Gare du Nord or Gare de Lyon, offering immediate metro access.
• Local tips
  Local tips

  • Always start every interaction with 'Bonjour' to show respect and ensure better service from shopkeepers and waiters.
  • Request 'une carafe d'eau' at restaurants to receive free tap water and avoid paying for expensive bottled options.
  • Keep your bag closed and held in front of you in crowded tourist areas and on the Métro to protect against pickpockets.
• What’s new
  What’s new in Paris

  • Palais Garnier Immersive Experience: A new 180° virtual reality tour led by Principal dancers.
  • 19th-Century Aesthetic Revival: A major lifestyle trend blending Victorian romanticism and Belle Époque style, influencing new boutique openings and cultural events across the city.