Seven Books that Will Boost Your Paris Experience: From Historical Epics to Literary Charms

Embarking on a journey to Paris is like stepping into a realm where history, art, and romance converge on the cobbled streets and along the banks of the Seine. It’s a city that has inspired countless tales, capturing the imaginations of writers for centuries. Whether you’re planning your first visit or returning to rekindle your love affair with the City of Light, delving into literature set in Paris can enrich your experience in profound ways.

Before you set foot in Paris, immersing yourself in the pages of a historical novel, a tourist guidebook, or a simple fictional tale set in this enchanting city can provide invaluable context, deepen your understanding, and heighten your anticipation.

A book can give you a deeper understanding of the city… this is how.

1. Historical Novels:
Transport yourself to different eras of Parisian history through captivating narratives that intertwine fiction with real events. These novels breathe life into bygone days, offering insights into the city’s evolution, from medieval times to the Belle Époque and beyond. By exploring the intricacies of historical fiction, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for Paris’s rich tapestry of culture and heritage.

2. Tourist Guidebooks:
While guidebooks may seem straightforward, they offer indispensable knowledge about Paris’s iconic landmarks, hidden gems, and cultural nuances. Equipping yourself with a reliable guidebook can transform your sightseeing adventures, helping you navigate the city with confidence while uncovering its lesser-known treasures.

3. Fictional Novels Set in Paris:
Immerse yourself in the fictional realms woven by authors who have chosen Paris as the backdrop for their stories. From tales of love and loss to gripping mysteries and coming-of-age sagas, these novels capture the essence of Parisian life in all its complexities. Through the lens of fiction, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the city’s soul, its inhabitants, and their struggles and triumphs.

Now you understand why a book can help you enjoy your trip to Paris even more. But, which are the books you should read before you come to Paris, or maybe that you should buy on the airport before your plane leaves for Paris? Here you have seven suggestions.

love for paris and books

Seven books that will boost your Paris experience!

1. “The Da Vinci Code” by Dan Brown

A gripping thriller that takes readers on a pulse-pounding journey through the streets of Paris, “The Da Vinci Code” unravels a web of secrets, mysteries, and ancient conspiracies. From the Louvre Museum to the elusive Priory of Sion, follow symbologist Robert Langdon and cryptologist Sophie Neveu as they decipher clues hidden within the city’s iconic landmarks.

The Da Vinci Code

As readers read “The Da Vinci Code” by Dan Brown, they will encounter several iconic attractions and museums in Paris, each playing a significant role in the story’s setting and plot. Some of these include:

  1. The Louvre Museum: One of the world’s largest and most famous museums, the Louvre is home to thousands of artworks, including Leonardo da Vinci’s masterpiece, the Mona Lisa. In “The Da Vinci Code,” the Louvre serves as a central location where the story’s mystery begins.
  2. Saint-Sulpice Church: This historic church in the heart of Paris is featured prominently in the novel. Its distinctive architecture and mysterious symbols play a crucial role in the plot’s unfolding.
  3. The Pyramids of the Louvre: These glass pyramids, designed by architect I. M. Pei, stand in the museum’s courtyard and serve as the main entrance to the Louvre. In “The Da Vinci Code,” they are a focal point for some of the story’s key events.
  4. Château de Villette: This grand chateau located outside Paris is featured in the novel as the home of Sir Leigh Teabing, one of the story’s central characters. It adds a sense of intrigue and luxury to the narrative.
  5. The Opéra Garnier: This stunning opera house, known for its ornate architecture and grand interiors, makes an appearance in “The Da Vinci Code.” It provides a backdrop for a crucial scene in the story.
  6. The Ritz Paris: This legendary luxury hotel is mentioned in the novel as a significant location where characters stay and meet, adding to the story’s glamorous setting.

The Da Vinci Code” was first published in March, 2003. It has sold over 80 million copies worldwide, making it one of the best-selling novels of all time. The book has been translated into 44 languages, further extending its global reach and popularity. It was adapted into a film released in 2006, directed by Ron Howard and starring Tom Hanks as Robert Langdon. If you don’t have time to read the book, watch the movie which is full of beautiful Paris scenery, just like the book!

2. “A Moveable Feast” by Ernest Hemingway

A moveable Feast

“A Moveable Feast” is a book written by Ernest Hemingway. It’s about his time living in Paris in the 1920s as a young writer. Hemingway reflects on his experiences in the city and shares memories of his interactions with other famous writers and artists of the time.

The book provides readers with a glimpse into the bohemian lifestyle of Paris during the “Lost Generation” era. Hemingway describes the cafes, bars, and neighborhoods he frequented, capturing the vibrant atmosphere of the city.

Paris serves as a central backdrop to Hemingway’s stories, as he recounts his struggles and triumphs as a writer. He writes about his friendships with other literary figures such as F. Scott Fitzgerald, Gertrude Stein, and Ezra Pound, offering insights into their creative processes and the challenges they faced.

Through Hemingway’s vivid descriptions and personal anecdotes, “A Moveable Feast” transports readers to the Paris of the 1920s, allowing them to experience the city through the eyes of one of America’s most celebrated authors. The book is deeply connected to Paris, as it celebrates the city’s beauty, culture, and influence on Hemingway’s life and work.

3. “Les Misérables” by Victor Hugo

“Les Misérables” is a famous novel written by Victor Hugo. It’s a story set in France, particularly in Paris, during the early 19th century. The book follows the lives of several characters, but the main focus is on Jean Valjean, a man who was imprisoned for stealing a loaf of bread to feed his sister’s starving child. After serving a long sentence, Valjean is released but struggles to find acceptance in society because of his past.

The novel explores themes of justice, redemption, and the struggle for a better life. It portrays the harsh realities of poverty and the disparities between different social classes in Paris during that time. Throughout the story, readers encounter various other characters, including Fantine, a struggling mother; Cosette, her daughter whom Valjean adopts; Javert, a relentless police inspector; and Marius, a young revolutionary.

“Les Misérables” is not only a gripping tale but also a social commentary on the conditions of the poor and marginalized in society. Hugo’s vivid descriptions of Paris and its streets add depth to the narrative, immersing readers in the atmosphere of the city.

The novel has been adapted into numerous stage plays, movies, and musicals, making it one of the most enduring stories in literature. Its themes of love, sacrifice, and the pursuit of justice continue to resonate with readers around the world. If you don’t have time to read the book, watch one of the many movies based on the book.

4. “Paris to the Moon” by Adam Gopnik

“Paris to the Moon” is a book written by Adam Gopnik. It’s about his experiences living in Paris with his family. Gopnik is from America, but he moves to Paris for a while because of his job.

In the book, Gopnik writes about the daily life of living in Paris. He talks about things like going to cafes, visiting museums, and exploring the streets of the city. He also writes about the differences between American culture and French culture, and how he and his family adapt to life in Paris.

Gopnik’s writing is funny and insightful. He shares interesting observations about Parisian life and culture, and he also reflects on his own experiences as an American living abroad.

5. “The Paris Wife” by Paula McLain

the paris wife

“The Paris Wife” is a book written by Paula McLain. It tells the story of Ernest Hemingway and his first wife, Hadley Richardson, during their time in Paris in the 1920s.

The book follows their relationship from the moment they meet to their eventual separation. It gives readers a glimpse into the glamorous and vibrant world of Paris in the 1920s, known as the “Lost Generation” era, where many famous writers and artists gathered.

Hadley narrates the story, sharing her perspective on their marriage and the challenges they face. She supports Hemingway as he strives to become a successful writer, but their relationship becomes strained as they navigate the complexities of love, ambition, and infidelity.

Throughout the book, McLain captures the atmosphere of Paris during this time, depicting the cafes, parties, and literary circles that Hemingway and Hadley were a part of. She also delves into the emotional depths of their relationship, portraying both its joys and its struggles.

“The Paris Wife” offers readers a poignant portrayal of love and betrayal against the backdrop of one of the most iconic periods in literary history. It provides insight into the lives of two fascinating individuals and the sacrifices they made for their art and their relationship.

6. “The Little Paris Bookshop” by Nina George

The Little Paris Bookshop

“The Little Paris Bookshop” is a book written by Nina George. It’s about a man named Jean Perdu who owns a floating bookshop on a barge in Paris. Jean calls himself a ‘literary apothecary’ because he believes that books have the power to heal people’s hearts.

Jean Perdu has a unique ability to recommend the perfect book for each person’s emotional needs. He listens to his customers’ problems and then suggests a book that might help them feel better.

The story follows Jean as he embarks on a journey down the Seine River in his bookshop barge. Along the way, he meets interesting characters and discovers more about himself and his own past. The book explores themes of love, loss, and the power of literature to heal and transform.

“The Little Paris Bookshop” is deeply connected to Paris because the city itself plays a central role in the story. From the picturesque streets to the enchanting riverbanks, Paris serves as a backdrop for Jean’s journey of self-discovery and healing. The book beautifully captures the essence of Parisian life and culture, making readers feel like they are right there beside Jean as he navigates the city and its many secrets.

7. “Murder in the Marais” by Cara Black

Murder in the Marais

“Murder in the Marais” is a book written by Cara Black. It’s a mystery novel set in the Marais district of Paris. The story follows a private investigator named Aimée Leduc as she tries to solve a murder case.

Aimée Leduc runs a detective agency with her partner, René. They specialize in computer security, but they also find themselves caught up in solving crimes. When a mysterious elderly Jewish woman asks Aimée to investigate the death of her daughter, Aimée agrees to take on the case.

As Aimée delves deeper into the investigation, she uncovers secrets and dangers hidden within the Marais district. The story takes readers on a thrilling journey through the streets of Paris, as Aimée follows clues and encounters suspects in her quest to uncover the truth.

The book is related to the city of Paris because it immerses readers in the vibrant atmosphere of the Marais district. Cara Black vividly describes the narrow streets, bustling markets, and historic buildings of this iconic neighborhood, bringing Paris to life on the pages of the book.

For tourists, “Murder in the Marais” offers a unique opportunity to explore Paris through the lens of a mystery novel. Readers can follow Aimée Leduc as she navigates the city’s landmarks and hidden corners, providing insights into Parisian culture and history along the way. The book combines suspenseful storytelling with vivid descriptions of Paris, making it an engaging and memorable read for anyone interested in both mystery fiction and the City of Light.

Would you rather watch a movie? Here you have two recommendations!

For those who prefer watching movies to reading books, there are two fantastic films that offer a captivating glimpse into the Parisian atmosphere: “Moulin Rouge!” and “Midnight in Paris.”

“Moulin Rouge” from 2001

“Moulin Rouge!” is a vibrant and extravagant musical directed by Baz Luhrmann. Set in the Montmartre district of Paris in the early 20th century, the film follows the story of a young poet named Christian, played by Ewan McGregor, who falls in love with Satine, a beautiful courtesan and star of the Moulin Rouge cabaret, portrayed by Nicole Kidman. The movie features dazzling musical performances, elaborate costumes, and stunning set designs, capturing the bohemian spirit and flamboyant energy of Paris’s nightlife during that era. Through its visually stunning cinematography and memorable soundtrack, “Moulin Rouge!” transports viewers to the colorful and enchanting world of the iconic Parisian cabaret.

moulin rouge in paris

“Midnight in Paris” from 2011

“Midnight in Paris,” directed by Woody Allen, is a whimsical romantic comedy that explores the magic of Paris through the eyes of its protagonist, Gil, played by Owen Wilson. Gil is a nostalgic screenwriter who finds himself transported back in time to the 1920s every night at midnight while wandering the streets of Paris. As he navigates this surreal journey, Gil encounters famous literary and artistic figures from the past, including Ernest Hemingway, F. Scott Fitzgerald, and Pablo Picasso. Through its enchanting storyline and picturesque depictions of Parisian landmarks, “Midnight in Paris” captures the timeless allure and romantic charm of the city, making viewers fall in love with Paris all over again.

Midnight in Paris
“Midnight in Paris” with Owen Wilson, Marion Cotillard, Kathy Bates, and Rachel McAdams.

As you prepare for your Parisian adventure, consider diving into these literary treasures to enhance your understanding and appreciation of this magical city. Each book offers a unique perspective, inviting you to explore Paris through the eyes of its inhabitants, past and present.

Now, here’s a challenge for you, dear reader: before you embark on your journey to Paris, pick up one of these books and immerse yourself in its pages. Then, when you arrive in the City of Light, reflect on how your reading experience has enriched your understanding of Paris and share your thoughts in the comments below. And if you have any other book recommendations for fellow travelers seeking to delve deeper into the heart of Paris, we’d love to hear them! Happy reading, and bon voyage!

Is it worth buying a ticket for a river cruise in Paris?

Paris is one of the most beautiful cities on earth. Traveling to other cities, you often hear them compare themselves with Paris. Why? Because Paris is one of the most important cities on earth. Have you ever been to Prague or Budapest? Both cities often refer to themselves as the Paris of Eastern Europe. It is a fact that Prague and Budapest are beautiful cities, even though they cannot be compared to Paris. But one of the things these cities have in common is beautiful rivers and popular river cruises. Is it worth buying a ticket for a river cruise if you visit Paris? And what about Prague and Budapest?

Many of the river cruises in Paris start close to the Eiffel Tower (near Pont de bir Hakeim/Pont D”Le’léna) and then ends near Pont d’Austerlitz. During such a trip, you can see the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame, Musée Orsay, Musée de Louvre, Place de la Concorde, the Petit Palais, lots of bridges, Jardins du Trocadero, Invalides, and many other famous areas and landmarks.

Knowing why you want to go on a river cruise in Paris is important. Some companies offer tours in which you have to sit quietly on a chair while listening to a guide (sometimes in the middle of a boat quite far away from the windows), while other cruises are meant for you to walk around, take photos, buy drinks, and relax. Before you decide what river cruise in Paris to buy a ticket for, make sure to find out what your goal is with the trip. Would you like to know as much as possible about what you see? Is it more important to enjoy a nice drink or a meal? Read thoroughly about the different trips available to find the one suitable for you!

river cruise in paris

It is worth watching the city from a different perspective!

During a river cruise on the Seine, you will see the city from a different perspective and many beautiful buildings and areas within a short time. You will see more during daytime, but if you decide to go on a river cruise in the evening, you can see beautifully illuminated buildings and bridges, something by many considered an even more fantastic experience than during the daytime.

You can see many details and areas while on a river cruise in Paris that you cannot see during a normal guided tour in Paris or if you walk the city by yourself. Many details along the Seine and surrounding the bridges can only be seen on a river cruise, so pay close attention and listen to the guide (if there is one).

Different river cruises available in Paris.

There are plenty of river cruise options available in Paris. A very popular tour combines a 1-hour river cruise during daytime or nighttime with a drink/waffle/ice cream before or after the trip’s start. The dessert can be picked at a stand 25 meters from the boat peer, and the waffle/pancake/ice cream quality is very good. The trip itself is all about sightseeing, and on a busy day you will be on a fully packed boat with no space to move around (except for when you go to the toilet). The trip has an actual guide standing in the front and sharing information, meaning that it is about listening and learning, not chatting with your mates and walking around.

Would you rather enjoy a relaxed tour of the Seine River in the evening with a three-course menu and live music? Does it sound nice to have a large upper deck where you can walk around, dance, take photos, and enjoy the fresh air? Many cruises are offering such packages, and they are ideal for those who want to combine a river cruise with a dinner, but without an annoying guide trying to make you pay attention all the time.

These are just some options, but if you click the links, you can read information about many other tours besides what we have just described.

Are river cruises in Paris better than similar cruises in Prague and Budapest?

We already mentioned that many compare Prague and Budapest to Paris, and the cities clearly have nice rivers in common. While the Seine River flows throw Paris, Vltava flows through Prague, and the Danube through Budapest. A river cruise in any of these cities can be recommended, but if we would have to pick one of them as the very best, it would probably be a river cruise in Budapest. Why is that?

Even though Paris is a more impressive city, Budapest has a panorama that neither Paris nor Prague can compare with. You don’t see a lot in Prague during a river cruise beside the Vitus Cathedral, the Castle area, and the Charles Bridge. Paris has several beautiful buildings and bridges, but the Danube in Budapest and the city surrounding the river on both sides make it even more suitable for a beautiful river cruise experience.

This is our subjective opinion. We are not saying you shouldn’t do a river cruise in Paris. We are truly saying that you should visit all three cities, go on a river cruise, and then return here and share your thoughts about which experience you enjoyed the most.

Good luck, and we look forward to hearing from you!

Five cafes in Paris with fantastic coffee and stunning view.

Paris is known for its charming cafes and stunning views. Whether you’re looking for a cozy spot to enjoy a coffee or a picturesque view of the city, Paris has plenty to offer. Here are five fantastic cafes in Paris with a great view, fantastic coffee, and great cakes and food worth tasting.

Café de Flore

Café de Flore is a historic café located in the heart of Saint-Germain-des-Prés, one of Paris’s most famous neighborhoods known for its intellectual and artistic history. The café is located on the corner of Boulevard Saint-Germain and Rue Saint-Benoît and has been a popular destination for locals and tourists alike since it first opened in 1887.

Café de Flore is known for its chic and elegant atmosphere, with its classic Art Deco interior design, red velvet banquettes, and marble-topped tables. The café has also been a gathering place for many famous writers, artists, and intellectuals over the years, including Pablo Picasso, Jean-Paul Sartre, and Simone de Beauvoir.

The menu at Café de Flore features classic French dishes, such as croissants, quiches, and escargots, as well as a selection of pastries and desserts. The café is also known for its coffee and tea, with a variety of blends and preparation methods available.

In addition to its indoor seating, Café de Flore also has an outdoor terrace that is particularly popular during the warmer months. From the terrace, visitors can enjoy views of the bustling boulevard and watch the world go by.

cafe de flore in paris

Café Marly

Café Marly is a historic and upscale café located in the heart of Paris, France, in the courtyard of the Louvre Museum. The café is named after Marly-le-Roi, a former royal residence outside Paris.

The Café Marly is known for its beautiful setting and stunning views of the Louvre and the nearby Pyramide du Louvre. The café is housed in a modern glass structure that was designed to blend in with the classic architecture of the Louvre, and its terrace offers a unique vantage point to take in the surrounding sights.

In addition to its picturesque location, Café Marly is also known for its high-quality cuisine and extensive wine list. The menu features classic French dishes, such as escargots, foie gras, and steak tartare, as well as a variety of seasonal and contemporary options.

Café Marly has been a popular destination for locals and tourists since it opened in 1994. It has also been featured in numerous films, including “The Da Vinci Code” and “Midnight in Paris.”

cafe marly with view to the Louvre museum.

Le Café du Musée Rodin

Le Café du Musée Rodin is a charming café located in the 7th arrondissement of Paris, adjacent to the Musée Rodin, which houses the works of the renowned French sculptor Auguste Rodin.

The café is set within the museum’s beautiful gardens, surrounded by trees and sculptures, and offers a serene and peaceful atmosphere. It has both indoor and outdoor seating areas, with the outdoor terrace being particularly popular during the warmer months.

Le Café du Musée Rodin offers a range of light meals, pastries, and drinks, all prepared using fresh and locally sourced ingredients. The menu includes a variety of salads, sandwiches, quiches, and soups, as well as a selection of desserts and pastries. There is also a children’s menu available for younger visitors.

The café is popular not only with museum visitors but also with locals who come to enjoy the tranquil setting and delicious food. It is particularly well-known for its homemade lemonade, which is made fresh daily and is a refreshing and popular choice during the summer months.

Le Café du Musée Rodin

Carette

Carette is a popular café and tea room located in the heart of Paris, in the upscale neighborhood of Trocadéro. The café is situated on the corner of Rue de l’Université and Rue Carette, and is just a short walk from the Eiffel Tower and the Musée d’Art Moderne de la Ville de Paris.

Carette is known for its elegant and sophisticated atmosphere, with its classic Art Deco interior design, marble-topped tables, and chandeliers. The café also has an outdoor terrace with views of the Eiffel Tower, making it a popular destination for tourists.

The menu at Carette features a variety of French and international dishes, including salads, quiches, sandwiches, and pastries. The café also has an extensive tea selection, with a range of blends and preparation methods available.

One of the standout features of Carette is its bakery, which produces a wide selection of bread, pastries, and cakes daily. Visitors can enjoy a croissant or pain au chocolat with their coffee, or indulge in a macaron or éclair for dessert.

carette paris

Café Panis

Café Panis is a charming café located in the heart of Paris, in the historic district of Marais. The café is situated on the corner of Rue de Jouy and Rue du Pont Louis-Philippe, and is just a short walk from the Seine River and the Notre-Dame Cathedral.

Café Panis is known for its warm and inviting atmosphere, with its cozy interior featuring exposed stone walls, wooden beams, and a fireplace. The café also has an outdoor terrace with views of the nearby Saint-Paul Saint-Louis church.

The menu at Café Panis features a variety of French and Mediterranean-inspired dishes, including soups, salads, sandwiches, and pastries. The café also offers a range of hot and cold beverages, including coffee, tea, and wine.

One of the standout features of Café Panis is its bakery, which produces a wide selection of bread, pastries, and cakes daily. Visitors can enjoy a croissant or pain au chocolat with their coffee, or indulge in a slice of tarte Tatin or chocolate mousse for dessert.

Café Panis is a popular destination for both locals and tourists, and is often busy throughout the day. It is particularly well-known for its brunch, which is served on weekends and features a range of sweet and savory dishes.

cafe panis with view to the notre dame

In conclusion, Paris offers a plethora of cafes with stunning views, each with its own unique charm and ambiance. Whether you’re looking for a historic institution or a cozy spot off the beaten path, a café in Paris is perfect for you. So next time you’re in the City of Light, make sure to check out these five fantastic cafes with a great view.

For more recommendations, interesting articles, and general information about Paris, look around in our Paris Guide.

Recommended activities for teenagers in Paris.

Paris is a fascinating city with a wide range of activities that can appeal to teenagers. Whether it’s exploring iconic landmarks, visiting museums, trying out new food, or experiencing the local culture, there is something for everyone. Here we’ll mention a few activities that interest families with teenagers and teenagers traveling by themselves to Paris. You might not find every suggestion appealing, but if you get some good ideas, this article has succeeded!

Here are some recommended programs for teenagers visiting Paris.

teenager activities in paris

Programs ideal for teenagers in Paris.

1. The Louvre Museum:

The Louvre is one of the most famous museums in the world, and it’s a must-visit for anyone visiting Paris. Teenagers will love exploring the museum’s vast art collection, including the famous Mona Lisa painting. They can also participate in guided tours and workshops catering to teenagers. Some might say museums are boring, but due to the fame of Mona Lisa and other paintings in Louvre, this might still be an interesting program for most teenagers.

2. Eiffel Tower:

No trip to Paris is complete without visiting the Eiffel Tower. Teenagers can take the elevator to the top of the tower and enjoy panoramic views of the city. This is definitely an enjoyable experience, and all teenagers will love taking a selfie from the top of the Eiffel Tower. For an even more unique experience, you should consider having a picnic on the Champ de Mars, the park at the foot of the Eiffel Tower.

3. Seine River Cruise:

A boat cruise along the Seine River is an excellent way to see the city’s famous landmarks, such as Notre Dame Cathedral, the Louvre Museum, and the Eiffel Tower. Teenagers can enjoy a relaxing and scenic tour while learning about the city’s history and culture. Some cruises include food and drinks, while others only offer sightseeing and a magnificent view. No matter which tour you choose, this program is recommended for teenagers in Paris.

river cruise in paris

4. Street Art Tour:

Paris has a vibrant street art scene, and a guided tour can take teenagers to see some of the city’s most impressive murals and graffiti art. The tour can also include visiting a street art museum and workshops where they can learn to create their own street art. This is a program not well known, but people always love watching street art, and that is especially true among teenagers.

street art paris

If you search for “street art in Paris” on the Internet, you will see what you can expect if you join a street art tour in Paris.

5. Cooking Class:

French cuisine is world-famous, and teenagers can learn to cook some of the classic French dishes by taking a cooking class. They can learn how to make croissants, macarons, or even a three-course meal under the guidance of a professional chef. This program might ignite a spark in teenagers, creating a love for food and cooking. It is also a great program if you want a group to work together with a purpose. In other words, an excellent activity for school classes and individual teenagers in Paris.

6. Shopping:

Paris is known for its fashion, and teenagers can enjoy shopping in the city’s many trendy boutiques and vintage stores. They can also explore the famous Galeries Lafayette department store, which features over 70,000 square meters of retail space and a stunning glass dome. If you want to bring a present home to mum and dad, why not buy some French wine or a bottle of Champagne as a present?

7. Disneyland Paris:

Disneyland Paris is a theme park in Marne-la-Vallée, about 32 kilometers east of Paris. The park opened in 1992 and has since become one of Europe’s most popular tourist attractions, welcoming over 15 million visitors each year.

The park is divided into themed lands, including Fantasyland, Adventureland, Frontierland, and Discoveryland.. Each land offers a variety of rides, shows, and attractions that cater to different age groups and interests.

Some of the most popular attractions at Disneyland Paris include:

  • Space Mountain: a thrilling roller coaster that takes visitors on a high-speed journey through space
  • It’s a Small World: a family-friendly ride that takes visitors on a musical tour of the world
  • Pirates of the Caribbean: a boat ride through a pirate-themed world, featuring animatronic characters and special effects
  • The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror: a haunted elevator ride that drops visitors 13 stories in free fall.

In addition to the rides, Disneyland Paris offers various shows, parades, and character meet-and-greets. Visitors can meet their favorite Disney characters, including Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck, and many others.

disneyland in paris with teenager

8. Asterix Park:

Parc Astérix is another popular theme park located about 35 kilometers north of Paris, in Plailly. The park opened in 1989 and is based on the popular French comic book series, Astérix.

The park is divided into six themed zones, each representing a different period of history, including Ancient Greece, Ancient Rome, Egypt, the Vikings, and Gaul (the setting of the Astérix comic books). Each zone offers a variety of attractions, shows, and restaurants that are themed to that particular period.

Some of the most popular attractions at Parc Astérix include:

  • Tonnerre de Zeus: a wooden roller coaster that reaches speeds of up to 80 km/h
  • OzIris: an inverted roller coaster that takes riders on a high-speed journey through ancient Egypt
  • Trace du Hourra: a bobsleigh-style roller coaster that simulates the experience of a Winter Olympic Games luge race.

In addition to the rides, Parc Astérix offers a range of shows and entertainment, including a bird of prey demonstration, a gladiator show, and a dolphin show. Visitors can also meet the characters from the Astérix comic books, including Astérix, Obélix, and Idéfix.

9. Book a great hotel.

Living in a great location is essential if you are a teenager in Paris or if you visit Paris with teenagers. You don’t want to spend your precious time and the patience of the teenagers getting from A to B. In the same way, you might spend some money using public transportation instead of walking all day, as that will tire the teenagers more than necessary.

Where should you stay in Paris? There are lots of hotels to choose from, but we recommend you to plan and book a hotel near the attractions, activities, and museums that you plan on visiting in Paris.


As you come to Paris, don’t think you must see and experience everything the city offers. That will make you stressed and the teenagers angry. Calm down, make some plans, involve the teenagers in the planning, and let them come up with suggestions. Do not forget that eating and drinking is important so stop frequently, take a lot of selfies, and try to make your stay in Paris memorable for the entire family.

How to travel to Champagne from Paris?

Champagne is one of the world’s most famous wine regions, located just a short distance from Paris. For visitors to the French capital, a trip to Champagne is a must-do experience. This article will explore how to travel from Paris to Champagne, the distance between the two destinations, and the expected travel time.

Distance from Paris to Champagne

The distance between Paris and Champagne varies depending on where in Champagne you’re heading. Reims, the largest city in the region, is located about 130 km (80 miles) northeast of Paris, while Épernay, another popular destination in Champagne, is located about 145 km (90 miles) east of Paris.

Travel Time from Paris to Champagne

The travel time from Paris to Champagne can vary depending on your transportation mode. Here are the estimated travel times for the different options:

By Car: If you’re driving from Paris to Reims, the journey takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes, depending on traffic. To get to Épernay, the journey takes around 1 hour and 45 minutes. It’s worth noting that the roads can be busy, especially during peak travel times, so plan accordingly.

By Train: The train is a convenient and popular option for traveling from Paris to Champagne. The journey from Paris to Reims takes around 45 minutes on the TGV, France’s high-speed train. The journey from Paris to Épernay takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes on a slower regional train. There are also direct trains to Reims from Charles de Gaulle Airport, which takes around 30 minutes.

By Bus: Several bus companies travel between Paris and Reims/Épernay. The journey times can vary depending on traffic, but generally, it takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes to get to Reims and about 2 hours to get to Épernay.

visiting champagne from budapest

How to Travel from Paris to Champagne

There are several options for traveling from Paris to Champagne, depending on your preferences and budget.

By Car: Renting a car is a good option if you prefer to drive. Rental cars are widely available in Paris, and there are several car rental companies to choose from, including Avis, Hertz, and Europcar. Before renting a car, be sure to check the parking options and restrictions in the city and in Champagne. Parking in the city center of Reims can be difficult, so it’s worth booking a parking space in advance.

By Train: The train is a popular and convenient travel option from Paris to Champagne. The journey from Paris to Reims takes around 45 minutes on the TGV, and the journey from Paris to Épernay takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes on a regional train. Trains run frequently throughout the day, and you can book tickets in advance on the SNCF website.

By Bus: Several bus companies operate services from Paris to Reims and Épernay, including Flixbus and Ouibus. The journey times can vary depending on traffic, but generally, it takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes to get to Reims and around 2 hours to get to Épernay. Bus tickets can be purchased online.

By Private Transfer: If you’re looking for a more comfortable and hassle-free way to travel from Paris to Champagne, you may want to consider hiring a private transfer. This option allows you to travel in a private car with a driver who will take you directly to your destination. The journey time can vary depending on traffic.

On a group trip: You can easily travel to Champagne on a wine excursion from Paris. In such cases you don’t have to worry about transportation or anything, because everything is included and arranged. You can read more about wine-tasting programs in Paris and outside Paris in this article.


You are now better prepared for a trip to Champagne. People produce sparkling wine all around the world, but they are only allow to call it Champagne if if follows the strict rules of production in the Champagne area. Would you like to find out if the difference is big between a sparkling wine produced in Champagne and a sparkling wine produced in Hungary? You can read more about wine programs in Hungary on this page.

What is so special about Champagne?

Champagne is a sparkling wine made exclusively in the Champagne region of France, using a specific method of production known as the méthode champenoise (also known as the traditional method). This region is located northeast of Paris and covers an area of around 34,000 hectares.

Champagne’s unique combination of taste, texture, and bubbles makes Champagne special. This is achieved through the méthode champenoise. This process involves a secondary fermentation in the bottle, which gives Champagne its signature effervescence and complexity.

The grapes used in Champagne production are also unique. Champagne is typically made from a blend of three grape varieties: Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier. These grapes are grown in the Champagne region’s cool, northern climate, giving them a distinctive flavor profile and acidity.

One of the other factors that makes Champagne special is the rigorous quality control measures that are in place to ensure that only the best wines are sold under the Champagne name. The production of Champagne is tightly regulated by the Comité Champagne, a group that oversees every aspect of production, from grape growing to bottling.

The Champagne region was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2015, recognizing its unique cultural and historical significance.