Musée de l'Armée, situated inside the Hôtel national des Invalides complex, is one of the world's largest army and weapons museums. Here, visitors can explore a wide range of exhibits and artifacts that provide insight into French military history, including the two world wars. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll down the Champs-Élysées, the famous avenue lined with high-end shops and historical landmarks such as Arc de Triomphe.
Learn about the French Resistance and the horrors of WWII at the Musée de la Résistance et de la Déportation. The museum's exhibits showcase artifacts, photographs, and personal accounts of French citizens who worked toward the country's liberation during the war. Afterward, visit the iconic Notre-Dame cathedral, which has stood on the Île de la Cité for centuries, and admire its stunning Gothic architecture.
The Musée d'Orsay is housed in the former Gare d'Orsay railway station and houses an extensive collection of French art from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Admire works by Monet, Degas, Van Gogh, and many others. Afterward, take a Seine River cruise to see the city's top landmarks from a different perspective.
Head outside the city to visit the opulent Palace of Versailles, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the stunning palace interiors and the vast gardens, which include fountains, sculptures, and lakes. Afterward, return to Paris and spend the evening in the bohemian neighborhood of Montmartre, known for its art, music, and nightlife.
Getting around Paris is relatively easy, with a comprehensive public transportation system that includes buses, metro lines, and regional trains. A single metro journey costs €1.90, while a pack of 10 tickets costs €14.90. Alternatively, visitors can purchase a 1-day ticket for €7.50 or a 3-day ticket for €19.50. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are also widely available but more expensive. Travel times between locations vary depending on the mode of transportation, but it's generally easy to get around on foot or by metro.
If you have more time, consider adding a visit to the Louvre Museum, the Eiffel Tower, or the Catacombs of Paris. If you have less time, shorten your museum visits or opt for shorter walking tours. Keep in mind that many Parisian restaurants and shops close in the afternoon, so plan your itinerary accordingly. Finally, consider purchasing skip-the-line tickets to popular attractions to save time and avoid the crowds.
Paris has two main airports: Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) and Orly Airport (ORY). CDG is located about 14 miles northeast of the city center and serves as a hub for many international airlines. ORY is located about 8 miles south of Paris and is primarily used by low-cost carriers and European airlines. Visitors can reach the city center by train, bus, or taxi from both airports.