Travel Guide: Paris

Orlaith Costello
June 03, 2024

Travel Guide: Paris

France's capital is on the bucket list of most Aussies — and is set to be the top European destination of 2024 with the Summer Olympics on its roster.

The City of Lights. The City of Love. The capital of art and iconic architecture. Paris has quite the reputation, and it lives up to it.

Picture yourself strolling along the Seine savouring perfectly flaky croissants, taking in the views of timeless landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and Notre-Dame de Paris, indulging in the luscious cuisine and gazing at examples of seemingly every art movement.

In partnership with HSBC, we’ve put together this helpful starter guide to Paris so you can start planning your itinerary.

France's capital is on the bucket list of most Aussies — and is set to be the top European destination of 2024 with the Summer Olympics on its roster.

PLANNING AHEAD

Before you launch into weeks (or months) of responsibility-free fun in Europe, you’ll need to get some adult stuff out of the way first, like sorting out your payment plan. With an HSBC Everyday Global Account, you can spend fee-free around the world everywhere Visa is accepted. Plus, transfer and spend in up to 10 local currencies (including EUR). Take advantage of real-time exchange rates and preload your all-in-one Visa Debit Card before you even arrive in Europe.

GETTING AROUND

The Metro is the fastest way to get around but there are also buses, tramways and even a boat shuttle (the Batobus). Get unlimited public transport for the duration of your stay with the Paris Visite travel pass, and use the Citymapper App or Google Maps to find the best routes. For venturing outside the city to the airports or Disneyland, catch the Paris Regional RER train. And if you’re exploring the city on foot, make sure you pack sensible walking shoes or the cobblestone pavements will wreck your heels.

LOCALS LOVE

One venue that will crop up in local recommendations but is often absent from city guides is the oldest food market in the city, Marché Couvert des Enfants Rouges, located in the third arrondissement. Dating back to 1615 and named for an orphanage that used to be in the same location, the bustling market is a hub for all kinds of vendors. Here, you’ll find endless stalls of flowers, cheese, fresh produce and street food from around the world.

DON’T MISS

A sojourn to Paris is incomplete without exploring Montmartre. The 18th arrondissement in northern Paris is renowned for its artistic history. Hike up the 222 steps (sigh) or grab the funicular tram up the hill to the white-domed Sacré-Cœur Basilica and gaze across the city. Wander down one of the prettiest streets in the entire city, Rue de l’Abreuvoir, where you’ll find architectural delights. Spend a few hours exploring the historic homes, the vineyard and the museum, then revive in one of the bustling bistros.

Five of the Best

Tick these must-visit haunts off your bucket list.

Eco-Friendly Accommodation

From luxe hotels to city lodges, these eco-friendly hotels guarantee a guilt-free stay.

1. InterContinental Paris

This five-star hotel boasts a spa, winter garden bar and luxury suites.

2. Eden Lodge Paris

Enjoy your stay at a zero-carbon lodge close to Orly airport.

3. Hidden Hotel

Stay steps away from the Arc de Triomphe and the Avenue des Champs-Élysées.

4. Hôtel Du Louvre

Luxury is married with sustainability in this historic hotel.

5. Renaissance Paris Republique Hotel

This centrally located hotel's design was inspired by France's prosperous post-WWII period.

Restaurants and Eateries

Feast on cheeses, breads, croissants, macarons and steak frites at these fine establishments.

1. Frenchie Rue du Nil

Nab a reservation at this intimate Michelin-starred bistro.

2. Café de Flore

Sip an espresso at this Parisian haunt, known as the 'Birthplace of Surrealism'.

3. Pain Vin Fromages

Bread, wine, cheeses — what more could you ask for in Paris?

4. Le Bar Fleuri

Dine on a budget without scrimping on culture or taste at this local favourite.

5. Vieux Belleville

Take part in a sing-a-long with the locals at this musical restaurant.

Wine Bars and Cocktail Spots

Sample some of the finest wines and liqueurs the city has to offer at these watering holes.

1. Little Red Door

An unassuming red door opens into one of the top cocktail bars in Paris.

2. Fréquence

Vinyl music and cocktails collide for a mesmerising evening in the City of Lights.

3. Le Syndicat

Hidden behind a grungy exterior is a top-notch cocktail bar that features on many top bar lists.

4. Candelaria

A Mexican eatery and hidden speakeasy in one stylish locale in Paris.

5. L'Avant Comptoir de la Terre

Enjoy small plates with a glass of local wine at this counter in a Michelin-starred restaurant.

Museums and Galleries

A handful of the most famous museums on the planet are conveniently located near one another.

Local Favourites

Here are some local haunts that we promise aren't tourist traps.

Shopping

Whatever your poison, indulge in retail therapy at these luxe boutiques and historic stores.

Five of the Best

Tick these must-visit haunts off your bucket list.

Further Afield

If you've got a little extra time, here are some day trips you can take from Paris.

Versailles

A short train ride from the city brings you to one of the most stunning suburbs in France. Wander the grandiose halls of the palace and gardens — once the seat of power of the kingdom of France.
Monet's House and Gardens at Giverny

In a village in Normandy, 90 minutes from Paris, Impressionist master Claude Monet lived and worked. Spy the famed water lillies setting at his former home and gardens.
Mont-Saint-Michel

This tidal island and mainland commune is like something from a fantasy film. Head there for a day to amble through the streets and climb to the abbey atop the island.
Loire Valley

From the verdant vines to the medieval towns, quaint villages and impressive châteaux, this stunning valley south of Paris offers much to explore.
Fontainebleau

A popular weekend getaway spot for Parisians with the historic Château de Fontainebleau and picturesque forests and gardens.

Bookable Experiences

Ready to start planning? We've found these experiences you can book right now, fee free, using your HSBC Everyday Global Account Visa Debit Card.

Badass Tours

Why explore the French capital on foot when you can zoom around on an electric scooter with the locals? Book now.
Bois de Vincennes

Take a stroll through the largest parkland in Paris, Bois de Vincennes, then hire a wooden boat to cruise around Lake Daumesnil. Book now.
Le Trianon

Book a show at the iconic Le Trianon. Originally opened in 1894, it is an emblematic concert hall in Paris and a go-to venue for live music performances, comedy shows and more. See what’s on.
Marin d'Eau Douce

If sailing down the Seine is on your Parisian bucket list, book a boat from this crowd — and add on a picnic or aperitif hamper — to see the city from a different point of view. Book now.
Palais de Tokyo

Check out the largest hub of contemporary art in Europe at Palais de Tokyo, which houses everything from paintings and sculptures to graffiti and multimedia artworks. See what’s on.