Luxury holidays in Paris

It’s the layers of old and new, privilege and punk, that give Paris its ageless verve. Stroll the café-cultured streets of Saint-Germain-des-Prés if jazz, Giacometti or just a jus de pomme is your thing. For the gastronomique go-tos of those in-the-know, the trendy 11ème arrondissement has some of the city’s most talked-about new bars and restaurants. Get ahead of the curve in Pigalle, the up-and-coming (but still-slightly-sleazy) area to watch. As for the die-hard romantics? They’ll always have Montmartre.

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When to go

Paris shuts down (and relaxes) in August, when everyone sensible is on the beach. Go in spring to see the blossom, or autumn to catch Nuit Blanche, an all-night culturefest every October.

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Getting there

  • Planes

    Most international flights arrive into Charles de Gaulle Airport; but some land at Paris Orly, along with regional flights. Taxis from Charles de Gaulle to the centre cost upwards of €50; save the cash for the Champs-Élysées and take one of the regular buses or trains that run from the airports to the centre ville.
  • Trains

    Arrive in style by Eurostar if you’re travelling from London. For venturing further afield or when your feet need a break from all the wandering, make use of the 16 Metro lines and connected RER express trains.
  • Automobiles

    You’re better off without one. Many hotels charge for parking, and why risk the passion-killing traffic? Determined drivers need to steel themselves for the infamous Périphérique ring road.
  • Taxis

    Can be hailed in the street if you’re more than 100 metres from a rank (these are all over Paris and have phones if no taxi is waiting).