Paris for First-Timers: Beyond the Eiffel Tower

Arriving at Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG), I took the RER B train into central Paris — about 40 minutes and very affordable. Taxis have a flat rate (~€50–€60), which is worth it if you’re arriving late or with luggage. I stayed in the Le Marais district, which I’d recommend for first-time visitors. It’s central, walkable, and filled with cafés, boutiques, and small streets that feel distinctly Parisian. Instead of rushing to the Eiffel Tower, I started with a walk along the Seine, crossing at Pont Alexandre III and heading toward the Louvre. The scale of the Louvre alone is overwhelming — I focused on just a few sections rather than trying to see everything. One of the best experiences was simply walking: Rue de Rivoli Saint-Germain-des-Prés The Latin Quarter Each area feels different, and the transitions between them are part of the experience. For food, I had an unforgettable dinner at a small bistro in Saint-Germain — steak frites and a glass of Bordeaux, simple but perfect. For something more casual, bakeries (boulangeries) are essential. I took a half-day trip to Versailles, accessible via RER C train. Go early — it gets crowded quickly.