The Ultimate Paris Travel Guide for First-Timers Travelling from the UK

Planning your first-ever Trip to Paris? Whether you're drawn by the art, the food, the history, or the romantic charm, Paris is a dream destination that's surprisingly easy to reach from the UK.

This guide covers everything a UK traveller needs to know before setting off—how to get there, where to stay, what to see, and the little tips that make a big difference.

Why Paris is Perfect for UK Travellers

Paris is one of the most accessible European capitals from the UK, making it ideal for weekend breaks or even spontaneous day trips. Thanks to the Eurostar, you can leave London after breakfast and be walking along the Seine before lunch. Add to that a rich cultural heritage, world-famous landmarks, and a world-class food scene, and it's easy to see why Paris is a top choice for first-timers.

How to Get to Paris from the UK

By Eurostar (London to Paris)

• Departure: London St Pancras International
• Arrival: Paris Gare du Nord
• Journey Time: Approximately 2 hours 15 minutes
• Benefits: City centre to city centre travel, no need for airport check-ins, generous luggage allowance, and comfortable seating.
• Top Tip: Book 3–6 months in advance for the best fares. Off-peak times (midweek or midday trains) often offer better prices.

By Plane

• Airports: Major UK airports fly into Charles de Gaulle (CDG) and Orly (ORY).
• Flight Time: About 1 hour 15 minutes.
• Total Travel Time: Closer to 4–5 hours door to door once airport transfers, check-in, and security are factored in.
• Best For: Travellers coming from regions outside London or finding great deals with budget airlines.

By Coach or Car

• Coach Services: Operators like Flixbus and Eurolines run direct services from London to Paris.
• Driving: Via the Channel Tunnel or ferry to Calais, then drive south via the A26 and A1 motorways (approx. 6–7 hours).
• Good To Know: Driving gives you flexibility but can be tiring and expensive with tolls and parking in Paris.

Where to Stay in Paris

Paris is divided into 20 districts, or "arrondissements", arranged in a spiral from the city centre. Each area has its own unique vibe. For first-time visitors, these are some of the most convenient and atmospheric places to stay:

Central and Classic

• 1st Arrondissement (Louvre): Ideal for museum lovers, close to major sights like the Louvre, Tuileries Gardens, and Seine. Upscale and central, but pricey.
• Marais (3rd and 4th): A trendy district full of character. Think cobbled streets, boutique shops, lively cafés, and independent galleries.

Lively and Historic

• Latin Quarter (5th): A student-friendly area near the Sorbonne with a vibrant mix of bookshops, brasseries, and historic buildings.
• Saint-Germain-des-Prés (6th): Chic and intellectual, with literary cafés, antique shops, and elegant architecture.

Artistic and Romantic

• Montmartre (18th): Perched on a hill, this artistic neighbourhood offers charming streets, the iconic Sacré-Cœur, and sweeping views of Paris. A bit further from the centre, but full of atmosphere.

Booking Tips:

• Look for accommodation near a Metro station for easy access to the whole city.
• Consider renting a studio or apartment if you want a kitchen or more space.
• Paris hotels often have small rooms—check square footage before booking.

What to Do in Paris: Essential Highlights

Eiffel Tower

Whether you climb it or admire it from the Champ de Mars or Trocadéro Gardens, this iconic iron structure is a Paris must-see. Originally built for the 1889 World's Fair, it now draws over 7 million visitors a year. You can take the lift or stairs up to the second floor, with an optional lift to the summit. From the top, enjoy panoramic views of the Seine, the Arc de Triomphe, and the city's classic rooftops.

Tip: Book tickets online as early as possible to avoid long queues—especially during weekends and holidays. Sunset time slots offer beautiful lighting and let you see the city by day and night in one visit.

Louvre Museum

The world's most visited museum and a treasure trove of art and history, the Louvre is home to over 35,000 works. Highlights include the Mona Lisa, the Winged Victory of Samothrace, and the Venus de Milo. But the museum is vast—it spans centuries and continents—so plan your visit wisely.

Tip: Focus on a theme (e.g. Renaissance, Egyptian Antiquities) or join a guided tour to avoid being overwhelmed.

Good to Know: The Louvre is closed on Tuesdays, and it's quieter during evening openings on Wednesdays and Fridays.

Notre-Dame Cathedral

Still under restoration after the 2019 fire, Notre-Dame's towers remain closed, but its majestic façade can be admired from the front plaza. Located on the historic Île de la Cité, the cathedral is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture with flying buttresses, rose windows, and centuries of history.

Nearby: Stroll around the island for views of the Seine, visit the nearby Sainte-Chapelle with its kaleidoscopic stained glass, and browse the flower and book stalls lining the Pont Neuf and riverside.

Arc de Triomphe and Champs-Élysées

Built by Napoleon to honour his army, the Arc de Triomphe stands proudly at the western end of the Champs-Élysées. Climb its 284 steps for an impressive view over the 12 grand avenues radiating out from the Place Charles de Gaulle, with the Eiffel Tower in perfect alignment.

Afterwards: Take a stroll down the Champs-Élysées, Paris's most famous avenue. It's lined with flagship stores, cafés, and historic cinemas, blending luxury and high-street brands.

Tip: Visit just before dusk for beautiful lighting, and stick around to see the Eiffel Tower sparkle on the hour.

Montmartre and Sacré-Cœur

This hilltop neighbourhood is steeped in artistic history—once home to Monet, Picasso, and Dali. At its crown sits the Basilica of the Sacré-Cœur, where you'll find sweeping views of Paris from the steps.

Explore: Wander through Place du Tertre, where artists paint portraits and street musicians perform, and discover tucked-away gems like the Espace Dalí museum or the charming Rue de l'Abreuvoir, one of Paris's most photogenic streets.

Tip: Skip the funicular and walk up the picturesque steps to soak in the atmosphere and snap great photos.

Seine River Cruise

Gliding along the Seine offers a relaxing and romantic way to see many of Paris's highlights—from Notre-Dame and the Eiffel Tower to the Louvre and Musée d'Orsay. Cruises typically depart near Pont Neuf or the Eiffel Tower and last about an hour.

Options: Choose a daytime cruise for sightseeing or a dinner cruise with champagne and city lights. Evening cruises are especially magical when Paris is illuminated.

Bonus: Many boats offer multilingual audio guides or live commentary to enhance the experience.

What to Eat in Paris

French cuisine is a highlight in itself, from gourmet restaurants to charming street food. Here are a few must-try dishes and treats:

• Croissants and pain au chocolat – Best enjoyed fresh in the morning from a local boulangerie.
• Crêpes – Sweet with Nutella, or savoury with ham and cheese. Try them from a market stall or in the Latin Quarter.
• Baguette sandwiches – A quick, satisfying lunch from a boulangerie or café.
• Steak frites – A brasserie classic that rarely disappoints.
• Cheese and charcuterie boards – Perfect with a glass of French wine.
• Macarons – Ladurée is world-famous, but Pierre Hermé is a local favourite.

Practical Tips for First-Time Visitors

• Language: Learn a few polite phrases—Bonjour, Merci, S'il vous plaît. Most Parisians speak some English, but a little effort goes a long way.
• Currency: Euros. Contactless cards are widely accepted, but having some cash is handy for small cafés and markets.
• Transport: The Paris Metro is fast, cheap, and easy to use. Consider buying a carnet (pack of 10 tickets) or a Paris Visite Pass for unlimited travel.
• Safety: Paris is generally safe, but keep an eye on your belongings in tourist areas and on the Metro. Pickpockets are common in busy spots.

Best Time to Visit Paris

• Spring (March to May): Pleasant weather, blooming gardens, and fewer crowds. A great time for outdoor cafés and river strolls.
• Summer (June to August): Busy and warm, with long daylight hours and open-air events. Some local shops close in August for the holidays.
• Autumn (September to November): Crisp air, golden leaves, and fewer tourists. A very photogenic time of year.
• Winter (December to February): Cool and festive, with Christmas lights, markets, and quieter museums. Expect some rain, but fewer crowds.

Useful Apps for Paris

• Citymapper – For navigating public transport with ease.
• Google Maps – Essential for walking routes, locating restaurants and finding things to do.
• Google Translate – Use the handy photo scan feature for menus and signs.
• TheFork – Reserve restaurants and get discounts.
• Bonjour RATP – Official Paris transport app for real-time Metro info.

Final Thoughts

Visiting Paris for the first time is an unforgettable experience. With just a bit of preparation, you can see the best the city has to offer without feeling overwhelmed. From the moment you step off the train or plane, you'll be surrounded by history, beauty, and an atmosphere like nowhere else in the world.

Take your time, enjoy the little things, and don't worry about cramming everything into one trip—because Paris has a way of calling you back.