One of the benefits of visiting Paris is to learn more about French culture and to understand the region. Paris is a site for art and literature, with renowned writers hailing from or writing about the city. It is also a site for global commerce, centered in the business district La Défense, and historical and political landmarks, such as the Versailles palace, for example.
Popular landmarks in Paris include museums such as the Louvre, as well as parks such as the Tuileries Garden. A popular cemetery that has become a tourist spot is Pere Larchaise cemetery, where prominent French artists were buried, including Oscar Wilde and Edith Piaf. You can jog around the gardens near the Eiffel tower and walk to local cafes. Theatres are also a great option. One of the best things to do in Paris is to view the city skyline from atop a tall structure, like the tower of Montparnasse, one of the tallest skyscrapers in the city.
A lot of people who have never been to Paris fear that they won't be able to get by if they don't know French. This is not necessarily true, because Paris is very travel-friendly. One can converse in English with other tourists and the locals. Although the French can speak English, it is still important to know a few phrases in French is always helpful. Just simple greetings in French like "good morning," "thank you" and "take care" will help you get on the good side of the French.
The best time to go to Paris is during fall or spring, when the weather is not too hot or too cold. Weather during this time is generally 50 to 60 degrees F. Summer is the season when most visitors travel. Flights are the cheapest in the Spring from April to June, as well as from September to October. Flights can be as low as $300 during these seasons, and accommodations range from $50 to $100.
It would also help you read a travel guide like Frommers or Lonely Planet to help you navigate your way around the city, and decide what sights you want to visit first, especially if this is your first time going to Paris. Pick tours, accommodations and places where you'd like to dine. Online forums such as IgoUgo will give you insights into great travel options in Paris. Paris is a city where there is so many things to discover, and creating an itinerary will help you tremendously in time and effort.
