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Planning a trip to Paris, especially if it is your first visit to the City of Light, requires a lot of research and careful attention to detail. After all, it would be a huge disappointment to show up at the Louvre only to find that the museum is closed, or that you don’t have the timed-entry tickets you need. Likewise, no one wants to spend three hours waiting in line for the opportunity to ascend the Eiffel Tower. These trip mishaps, among others, can be avoided with a good Paris trip planner.
Sure you can hire a travel advisor to do it for you, but with a little guidance, we can point you in the right direction and give you the tools you need to plan an amazing trip to Paris! Luckily my past experience as a travel agent building itineraries for families and developing relationships with local suppliers put me in a good position to plan my own trip this spring. And regular readers know that I’m a bit obsessive when it comes to research and trip planning.
So I figured why not share my Paris trip planning process with you, along with an easy-to-follow timeline and handy downloadable Paris trip checklist [see below] . And when you are ready to start planning, also be sure to check out my complete, detailed 5 days in Paris itinerary .
Note: This post may contain affiliate links. If you click a link and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission. All opinions are my own.
How early should you start planning a trip to Paris? If you are visiting Paris during the high season, I would recommend that you start planning at least six months in advance to find the cheapest airfare and the best hotel rates. This is especially true if you are visiting with a family and require a family room or suite and want to stay in a centrally located hotel or apartment.
Luckily Paris is a big enough city that it isn’t impossible to plan a last-minute trip, you just need to be a bit more flexible on your budget and expectations. Ideally, you will start planning a trip to Paris at least three months in advance before prime tickets to the Eiffel Tower or the Louvre have been sold out.
If this is your first time in Paris, I would recommend a minimum of five days, including your arrival day. Ideally, you would spend a week and have more downtime, plus time for a day trip from Paris, but you may also want to include a visit to a neighboring city like London or Amsterdam to round out your stay, or some time in the South of France.
For our spring break trip , we spent six nights in Paris and continued on to Venice (this was part of a celebratory graduation trip for us.) Even with six nights, our days were pretty busy and we aren’t planning any day trips. Spending a week in Paris is entirely doable.
Before you even get too far into planning your Paris trip, you need to figure out your Paris vacation budget so that you don’t get sticker shock when you start looking at the cost of hotels or apartment rentals.
Keep in mind that hotel rooms in Paris aren’t large and families will need a large suite or two rooms. Many times, they are better off with an apartment rental. Unfortunately, there are not a lot of great Airbnb options in Paris due to crackdowns on that service, at least not in the city center.
I put together an entire guide to Paris apartment rentals with many different options, but you can start by looking at options on VRBO .
We have broken down what an average family trip to Paris costs in a separate post that provides an excellent guide for airfare, accommodations, activities, meals, and transportation. Use this as a guideline when determining your budget, based on your own travel style and party size.
I would strongly encourage you to invest in travel insurance for your trip to cover trip cancellation, trip interruption, baggage loss or theft, and medical emergencies. Trust me, I’ve already had to cancel one Paris trip!
For international flights, I try to book my flight tickets about six months before my trip, especially if I’m trying to use airline points or miles as those seats disappear quickly. Once you have your vacation dates in mind, I would recommend setting an alert using an app like Hopper or signing up for membership for a flight fare sale alert service like Dollar Flight Club .
If you are willing to try a budget airline, the new Play Airlines is offering cheap flights to Paris from the United States through Reykjavik. Or, if you have champagne tastes, La Compagnie is a business class-only airline offering flights from Newark to Paris. Personally, I find either Delta or Air France the most reliable.
Paris is divided into 20 arrondissements or neighborhoods. The inner circle, or those closest to the center of the city’s main attractions, are the lower numbers. There is a lot of discussion of the best places to stay in Paris and the best fit for you may depend on your travel style and comfort walking and taking the Metro.
However, it is frequently recommended that first-time visitors stay in the 6th Arrondissement, or the Saint Germain des Pres neighborhood. This posh central Paris neighborhood on the Left Bank near the Latin Quarter is very popular, and can also get pretty pricey. If you are looking for a bargain, you can stay further out or try the 3rd or 4th Arrondissement on the Right Bank, the Le Marais neighborhood.
If you are looking for an apartment, you will find the most inventory in the 7th Arrondissement, near the Eiffel Tower. And if you are looking for luxury hotels and designer shopping, the classic 8th Arrondissement, home to the Champs-Élysées, is where to look, although this might feel too touristy for those looking for a more “authentic” neighborhood.
Whichever neighborhood you pick, it helps to book early, approximately three to six months in advance. Be sure to check out my guide for renting an apartment in Paris , but for now, here are a few recommended hotels:
Now comes the heavy lifting! It helps if you start researching your trip a few months before by browsing Pinterest, checking out blogs, and watching YouTube videos. You can even pick up a guidebook for a good overview of what there is to do.
Talk to your travel companions and start whittling down a list of your must-dos! Keep in mind that there are so many things to do in Paris that you simply can’t fit it all into one trip. And the easiest path to a miserable trip is overscheduling.
You also don’t want your trip to be only museums in Paris. Give yourselves time to sit in a cafe and drink a bottle of wine, walk through the Tuileries garden, stroll along the Seine, enjoy a local market, and maybe participate in an activity like a macaron-making class, perfume making, or a painting workshop. You may even want to take a food tour to experience some of Paris’ amazing cuisine.
Consider whether or not you would like to add a day trip to your itinerary. If you have more than five days in Paris, you can easily add in a day trip to the Loire Valley , Disneyland Paris , Versailles , Normandy , or wine tasting in the Champagne region. See the Paris family tours worth booking.
The first thing to do is to look at the major tourist attractions you want to see and make a note of the opening time, closing time, and days they are open. In Paris, major museums are closed on certain days and you need to work your itinerary around that. While you are researching this information, make a note of how long you should expect to spend at each attraction to give yourselves enough time and don’t overcrowd your days.
Here are some examples of top attractions in Paris:
One of my top tricks for planning our trips involves Google Maps. I will open a Google Map and search for each attraction that I want to visit. Then I will “star” or save each place so that when I zoom out and look at the map, I start to see a visualization of the different places that I want to go.
This allows me to group together certain attractions that I can do on the same day, and my itinerary starts to take shape. I also like to map out how long it takes to either walk from place to place or take public transportation / Uber.
Understanding the proximity between different attractions and when these attractions are open will help you begin to plan out your days.
As you are researching what places you want to see, you may also want to think about how you want to see them. Sure it is possible to explore all of Paris on your own, but will you get more out of it by taking a tour?
Some of the Paris tours that are worth spending for include:
If you decide to go it on your own, there is still some planning to do. If you plan on visiting many museums, you will likely benefit from investing in a Paris Museum Pass (note: this is different than the Paris Pass.)
The Paris Museum Pass provides you with entrance to over 50 museums and monuments in the Paris area and allows you to skip the ticket lines. The Paris Museum Pass (PMP) is available in 2, 4, or 6-day options, and is valid for subsequent days after the first activation. You can purchase the PMP online and pay to have it shipped via DHL to your home, or you can wait until you arrive in Paris and pick it up at the airport or at other locations around town.
Even if you have the Paris Museum Pass, you still need a timed-entry ticket to enter the Louvre, unless you are taking a tour. If you have a Paris Museum Pass, you can book an entrance time without having to pay for the ticket IF you have the serial number on your Pass. This means if you want to book before you arrive, you either have to pay to have your Pass shipped to your home OR you have to buy tickets to the Louvre.
If you do not have a Paris Museum Pass, you can purchase individual, timed-entry tickets to the Louvre online on the official website. Some other museums and attractions also require timed-entry tickets, such as the Museé de l’Orangerie and the Palais Garnier Opera House.
If you plan on visiting the Catacombs, it is also HIGHLY recommended that you purchase skip-the-line tickets in advance. It isn’t uncommon to find two to three-hour waits to enter the Catacombs during high season.
Tickets to the Eiffel Tower are another thing that you need to do in advance. Tickets typically go on sale 60-90 days before the date of your visit. It isn’t always exact so you need to keep checking to see when ticket sales open up for your dates. Tickets do sell out, especially during prime season, so you need to do this in advance.
Decide ahead of time if you want to purchase tickets to the second platform only, or if you want to go all the way to the top. If tickets aren’t available, you can either buy them through a third-party provider or try to get same-day tickets when you are there. Same-day tickets are available while supplies last until three hours before the visit time for lift tickets, or last minute if you are willing to walk up the stairs and only want to go to the second floor.
To save time waiting in long lines, you can also book a timed-entry ticket to go to the top of the Arc de Triomphe. And if you don’t have a Paris Museum Pass, you can purchase skip-the-line tickets for attractions like the Musee d’Orsay , Musée de l’Orangerie, and the Palais Garnier opera house if time is of the essence.
One more ticket you need to book in advance is for L’Atelier des Lumieres . They do not sell tickets at the door and you need a timed-entry ticket to get into this very cool digital art gallery.
Paris is known for its strikes, particularly transportation strikes. While you can certainly take the train or bus from the Charles de Gaulle airport into the center of Paris, the best way is to consider booking a car transfer in advance — just in case! Particularly if there is also a taxi strike because then finding an Uber is going to be a nightmare. Strikes are another good reason to stay in a central location so that you can walk if the Metro isn’t running and cabs or Ubers aren’t available. Both WelcomePickUps and Blacklane offer similar pricing in Paris.
If you are staying out in Montemarte or one of the further Arrondissements, you will be spending a lot of time on the Metro (when choosing a place to stay always check out the closest metro stations!) and you may want to consider purchasing a pass. Different options are available depending on when you arrive and how long you are staying. You can purchase the Navigo Decouverte pass at the airport or train stations, but make sure you bring along a passport-size photo or you’ll need to use one of the photo booths to take one.
If you will be taking a regional train to another city or country, make sure you reserve your tickets and seats in advance. European train routes typically open up for ticketing about 90 days prior to departure. I typically use Rail Europe to book train tickets for Europe as it allows you to see all the different train line options.
Like when visiting any big city, you are going to be happier if you plan your dining, at least as much as possible, in advance. This is especially true if you hope to indulge in a meal at a Michelin-starred restaurant as the best restaurants can be tough to even get a reservation for! Being hangry is a recipe for disaster when it comes to bursting the chill vacation mood.
With a little advance planning that can be avoided. Just keep in mind that in France, lunch typically runs from 12-2 pm. Don’t be surprised to walk in at 1:30 and be turned away. Plan your day accordingly or settle for dining at a cafe.
Dinner hour typically begins around 7-7:30 pm through 10 or 11 pm. But again, this is to give time to enjoy the meal, not to arrive at 10:30. Reservations for dinner are highly recommended if you don’t want to spend extra time walking here and there looking for an available restaurant that meets your tastes. I would recommend booking fine dining restaurants at least a month in advance and you can book your other dining a couple of weeks before you depart.
Luckily many restaurants accept online reservations through their website or through The Fork (the French version of Open Table.) Don’t be surprised if you are required to leave a credit card with a hefty cancellation fee for fine dining establishments.
There are plenty of wonderful food options to choose from in Paris but if you need a little help guiding your selection, I typically turn to one of the following:
We have made it to the final one to two weeks before your departure! Hooray, the trip is almost here but there is still so much to be done. Since you are traveling to Paris, I would recommend signing up for the U.S. State Department’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) . This lets the State Department know that you will be in France and they can get in touch with you via text or phone if there is an urgent event that impacts U.S. travelers (e.g. a terrorist attack, pandemic, strikes, etc.)
Of course these days, you also need to check to see what travel restrictions are in place by checking the Embassy website. As of February 12, 2022, fully vaccinated U.S. travelers no longer need to present a negative COVID test, but this is subject to change of course and from mid-March 2022 visitors don’t need to obtain a French Vaccine Pass to enter cultural sites, museums, theatres, restaurants, bars, nightclubs, or cafes.
Next, it is time to take care of money matters. I usually recommend going to your local bank to request Euro before you depart. Many times it takes 3-5 business days to get delivered. I typically withdraw 300-500 Euros and if I need more, I visit a local ATM. It pays to know in advance if your bank is affiliated with any French banks to avoid extra fees. Be sure to request denominations of 50 Euro and under otherwise you may have trouble getting change.
You should also contact your credit card company to let them know that you will be traveling overseas so they don’t put a block on your card.
Before you depart, figure out how you are going to communicate from abroad. Many wireless companies now offer affordable international calling or data plans. For example, with Verizon, I pay $10 per day (only on days that I use it) for wireless data, and the data I use counts against the same limits I have at home. If you haven’t used this plan before, you do need to activate it before you leave. We usually keep one phone turned on when needed and otherwise use WiFi.
It is also a good time to download any apps that you might need while you are in Paris, as well as any movies or entertainment you want for your offline travels. A few apps I would recommend include:
Before you leave, print out multiple copies of your itinerary and store them in separate places. I also like to email copies to trusted friends and save a version in the Cloud (Dropbox, Google Drive, etc.) so that I can access it if my paper copy gets lost. Also, make sure to print out and organize any tickets or vouchers that are required for your entrances or tours, or save these to your phone’s mobile wallet.
While you are at it, take a picture of everyone’s Passport and make sure those are stored on your phone and in the secure Cloud. Print out a copy to carry with you so you don’t need to carry originals with you when out and about (leave those in the hotel safe.) Just remember that you will need to show ID with your vaccine pass to enter attractions and restaurants so be sure to keep your IDs on you for that.
Before you start packing, double-check that you have your seat assignments and your seats haven’t been reshuffled since booking. At that time you can make sure everyone’s passport info, Known Traveler Numbers, and frequent flier numbers are all added to your flight record so that check-in is simple and easy.
Make sure everything is prepared at home by arranging pet or house sitting, stopping your mail or deliveries, setting the thermostat to a low and steady temperature, and setting any timers for your lights or smart home devices. You may also want to alert your home security company that you will be away.
Ready to get started? Download and print this ready-made checklist timeline for planning your trip to Paris.
Download your Paris Vacation Countdown Checklist Here
Now all you have left to do is pack, but that is the subject of another post! We wish you an amazing trip to Paris. Au revoir!
Tamara Gruber is the Founder and Publisher of We3Travel. A former marketing executive and travel advisor, Tamara is an award-winning travel writer and recognized expert in family travel. Tamara is a member of SATW and the Adventure Travel Trade Association, and serves on the Board of the Family Travel Association. She is also the publisher of YourTimetoFly.com and the co-host of the Vacation Mavens travel podcast.
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Publish Date: November 25, 2022
Next time– I’m doing this itinerary when we head to Paris. Last one was a bit of a dud, the one before was fun, but kids were itty bitty.
Love this step by step guide! So helpful!
Having a successful trip definitively takes planning. The better you plan the better your chances are to get the best deals and experiences you want. Love this step by step guide with what to do, when!
Great step by step planning. I am definitely saving this for future reference as I expect to go to Europe in 2021
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The 2024 Paris Olympics are a few months away. And if you plan on watching the action in person, make travel plans now.
Here’s your guide to traveling to Paris, snagging tickets and saving money (including watching certain events for free).
Across all events, there are about 10 million tickets up for grabs, but purchasing tickets to certain events can be a challenging sport in itself. Some tickets on the official Paris Olympics 2024 website have already sold out.
More tickets will be released regularly in the weeks leading up to the events. As of mid-February, about 2 million tickets are either available for purchase or have yet to go on sale.
Prices vary depending on the event and specific seat. According to Paris 2024 event organizers, 45% of tickets sold directly through them cost less than 100 euros.
NerdWallet analyzed 125 ticket prices in mid-February for 13 sports where tickets were still available. While average ticket prices (based on the least expensive ticket within the venue) were 101 euros (about $109 at the time of writing) based on NerdWallet’s analysis, some sports are far cheaper. Golf had the lowest average ticket prices at 24 euros, or about $26.
Of the 13 available sports at the time of NerdWallet’s analysis, here were average ticket prices by sport, sorted by least expensive to most expensive:
Golf: 24 euros.
Football: 32 euros.
Rugby Sevens: 63 euros.
Water polo: 66 euros.
Rowing: 90 euros.
Boxing: 100 euros.
Canoe Sprint: 108 euros.
Handball: 121 euros.
Weightlifting: 125 euros.
Canoe slalom: 132 euros.
Taekwondo: 134 euros.
Basketball: 159 euros.
Athletics: 224 euros.
The Olympic Games opening ceremony will take place for the first time outside of a stadium. Instead, it'll occur along the Seine. (Concept art courtesy of Paris 2024)
The most expensive Olympic ticket to purchase? As of mid-February, the opening ceremony. Although prices start at 90 euros, when we looked, the cheapest available ticket was 2,700 euros (about $2,925). There is a chance more tickets will be released in the future.
If you’re willing to splurge, you might still be able to buy tickets to sold-out events with a hospitality or travel package sold through the official Paris 2024 site.
Hospitality packages are VIP tickets that include extras like access to an exclusive lounge with refreshments and your own hospitality support staff. Travel packages add a hotel room.
But they’re not cheap. For women’s artistic gymnastics, hospitality packages for qualification rounds start at 495 euros (about $540) as of mid-February. The cheapest available packages for women’s gymnastics all-around finals cost 3,750 euros (more than $4,000).
Buy tickets from third parties at your own risk. It might be best to wait until organizers launch their official resale platform, which is expected in spring 2024.
A map of the Olympic Marathon course.
Opt for sports that don’t require a ticket: Not every sport requires a ticket. For example, you could stand along the Olympic Marathon route, which weaves past spots like Hôtel de Ville (Paris’s city hall) and the Seine, for free. Even for a spot at the finish line stands, tickets are relatively affordable, starting at 24 euros (about $26).
Concept art for one of the many celebration zones, where it's free to watch the events on a large screen. (Concept art courtesy of Paris 2024)
Visit fan zones: Head to one of roughly 30 “celebration zones.” These free-to-visit venues at major sites around Paris will include giant screens streaming the events. Many are just outside the stadiums.
Tickets for the Paralympic Games, such as the concept art for wheelchair rugby displayed here, can often be cheaper. (Concept art courtesy of Paris 2024)
Buy tickets for the Paralympic Games: Ticket prices for the Paralympic Games Paris 2024 are generally far lower. The least expensive tickets start at 15 euros (about $16).
Watch the opening ceremony for free: For the first time, the Summer Olympics opening ceremony will not take place in a stadium. Instead, the parade of athletes will be held on the Seine, offering a unique opportunity to stand along the water and watch without tickets.
Upper and lower quays, typically used as two tiers of walkways, border the Seine. While the lower quays will be blocked off to ticket holders, anyone can watch from the upper quays for free. Organizers expect hundreds of thousands of spectators.
The Paris Olympic venues are spread far and wide, so it can make sense to book lodging near the events you’ll watch.
Don’t wait to book, as hotels are filling up, and many are already sold out.
Even if you’re not entirely sure of your plans, consider booking now to lock in a rate with a flexible cancellation policy.
The Waldorf Astoria Versailles – Trianon Palace. (Photo courtesy of Hilton)
Of the rooms that are still available, brace yourself for expensive rates. For example, the cheapest available room at the Waldorf Astoria Versailles - Trianon Palace during the night of the opening ceremony costs 1,947 euros (more than $2,100). Meanwhile, the same property costs 203 euros (about $220) on some nights in mid-March.
Consider nontraditional lodging if hotels are sold out (or just not your style). France is Airbnb’s second-largest market after the U.S., according to vacation rental analytics company AirDNA.
But just as hotels are seeing huge demand, so are vacation rentals. Demand for short-term rentals during the Paris Olympics is 156% higher than demand for the two weeks before the games and rates are 40% higher during the Olympics versus the two weeks prior.
Most of the action will occur in the heart of the city, so accommodations near tourist attractions such as the Eiffel Tower or Grand Palais can make sense. Major hotel chains that may be familiar to U.S. travelers such as Hilton , Hyatt and Marriott have a high concentration of properties in the city center.
If you are planning on attending events at Olympic venues outside of Paris city limits, you can probably score more affordable lodging nearby. For example, average available nightly rates for vacation rentals in the suburbs are $302, according to data analyzed on Feb . 15 by AirDNA, compared to the $619 nightly rates within Paris proper.
Some locations aren’t anywhere near Paris. For example, the football tournament will be played at six stadiums throughout France: Bordeaux, Nantes, Lyon, Saint-Etienne, Nice and Marseille. Check your event tickets to ensure you stay in the right city.
Two main international airports serve Paris: Charles de Gaulle Airport and Orly Airport. The best airlines to fly into France include:
Air France .
Delta Air Lines .
American Airlines .
JetBlue Airways .
The region has a few other smaller airports, though they primarily serve budget airlines. If you book a budget airline, beware. Some budget European airlines are worth it given the steep discounts, but the extra fees can add up.
To save money on international flights , consider flying from your home airport to other European cities, and then getting to Paris by train or a connecting flight (just leave enough time for that international layover ). It also works with award flights to Europe , where availability can be limited.
For example, your home airport might have cheap flights into London. It wouldn’t be unreasonable to fly into London and then hop on the train to Paris. The Eurostar route between London and Paris takes about two-and-a-half hours.
In general, NerdWallet recommends booking international flights two to eight months out.
Tourist visas are not required in France for Americans staying 90 days or fewer. Vaccinations are not required.
Ensure your passport hasn’t expired . For U.S. travelers flying in Europe's Schengen area (which includes France), your passport must be valid for at least six months at the time of your entry. If it’s not, renew your passport now.
The Paris metro crosses Pont de Bir-Hakeim. (Photo by Getty Images)
Paris is relatively easy to navigate. The city center is walkable, so most tourists are better off skipping the rental car.
For spots too far to walk, public transit is generally reliable and more affordable than a taxi. For example, it costs just under 12 euros (about $13) to go from Paris-Charles de Gaulle airport to Paris by train, but it costs between 56 and 65 euros ($60 and $70) by taxi.
As far as getting between venues, event organizers say they are working to increase public transport availability. Details are still to come, but plans include increasing capacity and adding shuttle buses between competition venues that are less easily accessible.
But French government officials have said prices for individual public transit tickets will temporarily rise between July 20 and Sept. 8. Valerie Pecresse, the president of the Île-de-France region, said in a video posted to social media that single metro journeys will temporarily cost 4 euros (up from the current price of 2.15 euros).
Tools such as Google Maps can help you navigate public transportation and walking directions. Even if you’ve skipped the international phone plan , you can still download offline maps.
» Learn more: How to get around Paris during the 2024 Paris Olympics
Always follow the rules for smarter European travel . Here are additional, France-specific tips:
Understand tipping culture: Tipping in France is not expected, so you won’t need to budget for that additional 15%-20% tip at restaurants as you’d likely do in the U.S.
But it’s generally the norm to round up bills for restaurants, coffee shops and taxi rides (so you leave the change as a tip). Tips for workers such as tour guides and housekeeping are also generally appreciated.
Use the right travel card: As with all travel, bring the right card to Europe . Choose one that doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees , which can add up to 3% simply because you swiped it outside the U.S.
Travel insurance can be a hugely underrated card benefit, saving you from purchasing a separate travel insurance policy . Travelers looking to level up their experience might prioritize credit cards with Global Entry, NEXUS or TSA PreCheck fee credits. Beyond those perks, consider cards that offer bonus points on travel categories such as hotels, airfares or restaurants.
The Chase Sapphire Reserve® and The Platinum Card® from American Express are two popular premium travel cards, each of which offers benefits like this to varying degrees and comes with a nice welcome offer.
on Chase's website
on American Express' website
Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $900 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Ultimate Rewards®.
Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $8,000 on purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Terms Apply.
• 10 points per $1 spent on Chase Dining, hotel stays and car rentals purchased through Chase.
• 5 points per $1 on air travel purchased through Chase.
• 3 points per $1 on other travel and dining not booked with Chase.
• 1 point per $1 on other purchases.
• 5 points per $1 spent on flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel, on up to $500,000 spent per year.
• 5 points per $1 on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel.
• 1 point per $1 on other eligible purchases.
Terms apply.
You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2024 , including those best for:
Flexibility, point transfers and a large bonus: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card
No annual fee: Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card
Flat-rate travel rewards: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card
Bonus travel rewards and high-end perks: Chase Sapphire Reserve®
Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express
Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card
1x-5x 5x on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards®, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases.
60,000 Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Ultimate Rewards®.
1.5%-6.5% Enjoy 6.5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel; 4.5% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and 3% on all other purchases (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year). After your first year or $20,000 spent, enjoy 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel, 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and unlimited 1.5% cash back on all other purchases.
$300 Earn an additional 1.5% cash back on everything you buy (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year) - worth up to $300 cash back!
on Capital One's website
2x-5x Earn unlimited 2X miles on every purchase, every day. Earn 5X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options.
75,000 Enjoy a one-time bonus of 75,000 miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel.
H ave you been dreaming of exploring the charming streets of Paris, indulging in creamy gelato in Rome, or cruising through the picturesque canals of Venice? Planning a trip to Europe from India can be an exciting venture that promises unforgettable experiences and cultural immersion. With its diverse countries and cultures, Europe has something for every traveler. From the grandeur of the Eiffel Tower in Paris to the historic Colosseum in Rome, the breathtaking Swiss Alps to the vibrant nightlife in Amsterdam, Europe is a treasure trove of unforgettable sights and experiences.
To plan the perfect European adventure, it’s important to consider factors such as budget, time, and interests. There are a variety of options for travel, from budget hostels to luxury hotels and trains to flights. Researching visa requirements and transportation options is also crucial. With careful planning and organizing, you can create an itinerary that suits your budget and interests, whether exploring museums and galleries, indulging in delicious local cuisine, or experiencing vibrant nightlife. There are various Europe tour packages that you can alter according to your needs.
So, why wait? Let’s start this journey together and discover how to plan the perfect European adventure that will leave you with memories and fun moments that will last a lifetime.
Before you dive into the planning process, take some time to research and decide which European countries and cities you want to visit. Europe is a big continent with many cultures, cuisines, and landscapes to explore. Consider your interests, art, history, culinary delights, or outdoor adventures, and choose destinations that align with your preferences.
Let’s talk about the elephant in the room: budgeting. Traveling to Europe from India can be a significant investment, so setting a realistic budget for your trip is essential. Consider factors such as airfare, accommodation, meals, transportation within Europe, sightseeing, and souvenirs. Remember to get currency exchange rates and plan for unexpected expenses. Europe tour packages come in various budgets, making it easier to select according to your preferences.
One of the easiest ways to plan your European getaway is by exploring European tour packages that are altered for Indian travelers. These packages often include flights, accommodations, transportation, guided tours, and sometimes meals, making planning seamless and hassle-free. Look for packages that cover your desired destinations and offer flexibility in itinerary options.
Before you jet off to Europe, ensure you have all the necessary travel documents. Indian citizens typically require a valid passport, Schengen visa (for most European countries), and travel insurance covering medical emergencies and trip cancellations. Be sure to apply for your visa beforehand to avoid any last-minute stress.
Now comes the fun part of going on the trip: planning your itinerary! Plan your days in each destination, considering travel time between cities and attractions. Research must-see landmarks, museums, restaurants, and hidden gems you want to take advantage of. Balance your itinerary with iconic sights and off-the-beaten-path experiences to immerse yourself in the local culture.
Once you have put together your travel itinerary, it’s time to start planning the logistics of your trip. You’ll want to begin by booking your flights and accommodations. As you book your flights, watch for special deals and discounts offered by airlines that fly from India to major European cities. This can help you save money and make the most of your budget.
A bed-and-breakfast might be the perfect choice if you’re looking for a cozy and comfortable place to stay. On the other hand, if you prefer a more modern and communal atmosphere, a hostel could be a great option. You might consider a boutique hotel with unique decor and personalized service if you want something more upscale.
No matter your preferences, taking the time to select your accommodations carefully can help ensure that your trip is comfortable, enjoyable, and unforgettable.
Packing for a trip to Europe requires careful consideration of the weather, local customs, and planned activities. Pack flexible and easy clothing that can be layered for varying temperatures. Don’t forget essentials like comfortable walking shoes, a universal adapter, a travel-friendly backpack, and any necessary medications or personal items. Remember to leave room in your suitcase for souvenirs!
Staying connected while traveling in Europe is essential for navigating unfamiliar cities, staying in touch with loved ones, and sharing your adventures on social media. Consider purchasing a local SIM card or an international roaming plan from your Indian service provider to access data and make calls at reasonable rates.
One of the most rewarding aspects of traveling to Europe is immersing yourself in its rich cultural tapestry. Be open to trying new foods, learning basic phrases in the local language, and engaging with locals to gain insights into their way of life. Respect cultural norms and customs, and always ask for permission before taking photos of sensitive areas or individuals.
Europe is a beautiful and popular destination for tourists from around the world. While exploring various countries and cities, remaining vigilant and cautious of your surroundings is crucial. Although it is generally considered a safe place to visit, it is always better to be prepared to ensure an enjoyable and safe trip.
To avoid any unfortunate incidents, keeping your belongings safe and secure at all times is essential. Be cautious of scams and pickpocketing in tourist areas, as these are common occurrences in busy and crowded places. It is also advisable to avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar neighborhoods, as this could risk your safety.
In case of any emergency, it is recommended to trust your instincts and seek help from local authorities or hotel staff. They are usually well-equipped to handle any situation and can provide you with the necessary help and support.
Planning a trip to Europe from India is an exhilarating journey filled with endless possibilities. You’ll discover a world of wonders, from iconic landmarks to hidden gems. By researching your destination, setting a budget, exploring European tour packages, and embracing cultural immersion, you can make the most of your European adventure and create memories that will last a lifetime. So pack your bags, embark on this epic journey, and get ready to experience the magic of Europe firsthand! Your European Adventure Awaits!
DISCLAIMER – “ Views Expressed Disclaimer : Views and opinions expressed are those of the authors and do not reflect the official position of any other author, agency, organization, employer or company, including NEO CYMED PUBLISHING LIMITED, which is the publishing company performing under the name Cyprus-Mail… more
A Labour frontbencher tells Sky News he thinks the election is "definitely coming" in May; Chancellor Jeremy Hunt is facing warnings of real-term cuts to NHS funding as he gears up for the budget. Listen to a budget-focused edition of the Sky News Daily podcast as you scroll.
Tuesday 5 March 2024 10:45, UK
There's been a lot of speculation over whether Jeremy Hunt could announce further tax cuts when he delivers his budget tomorrow.
The chancellor said yesterday he has a "plan for growth" and wants to move towards a "lower tax economy" - hinting at a possible pre-election giveaway.
Among the changes being speculated on is another 2p cut to National Insurance, just months after the rate was slashed from 12% to 10%.
Analysis by the investment platform AJ Bell reveals that cutting the NI rate to 9% would mean an annual saving of £124 for someone on £25,000, all the way up to a saving of £377 for anyone earning more than the £50,270 threshold.
A fall to 8% would be worth almost £250 to someone on £25,000, with a maximum saving of £754.
You can read more on this in our Money blog below:
By Gurpreet Narwan , political correspondent
Britain's electoral map could look dramatically different after voters go to the polls this year.
Labour is on course for a majority but in parts of the North of England and the Midlands, the battle is by no means straightforward.
Here, there are a number of traditional Labour strongholds, where voters are more likely to be white, working class and to have voted leave in the referendum.
Grimsby is one such example.
It turned Conservative for the first time since the end of the Second World War in 2019, with many people at the time feeling a cultural rift with the Labour Party.
This constituency has now been combined with Cleethorpes, where the Tories have been in power since 2010.
You can read more from Sky News below:
On Wednesday, the chancellor will rise to his feet in the Commons to deliver what will likely be the final budget before the general election.
Jeremy Hunt will set out the state of Britain's public finances, and will announce how government funding will be allocated for the year ahead.
The contents of the budget are a closely guarded secret until the chancellor delivers it in the Commons, but you can read our round-up of what he could announce here .
Sky News will have live coverage of PMQs at 12pm, followed by the budget immediately after at 12.30pm.
We will have live analysis of what it will mean for you, your family, and businesses with our expert team of political and business correspondents.
And we will, of course, have full coverage right here in the Politics Hub.
Watch the Budget 2024 on Wednesday from 12.30pm on Sky channel 501, Virgin channel 602, Freeview channel 233, on the Sky News website and app or on YouTube .
One year ago, Rishi Sunak made five pledges for voters to judge him on.
The prime minister met his pledge to halve inflation by the end of 2023, leaving four pledges outstanding.
However, he is faring less well with his other pledges.
It has been confirmed the UK is now in recession, which means the PM's pledge to grow the economy is not being met.
With the general election approaching, how is Mr Sunak doing on delivering his other promises?
You can see the progress for yourself below.
Our deputy political editor Sam Coates has been chatting to the Sky News Voters Panel about the new MP for Rochdale, George Galloway.
The group, who all voted Conservative at the 2019 general election, were asked what they made of the extraordinary by-election - and what they make of Mr Galloway himself.
"They have some pretty strong views," Sam explains.
Terry, who is now leaning towards the Liberal Democrats, says: "He always has been a rabid example of the worst kind, to me, of [politician] that you can have.
"He plays to a very, very narrow audience. His comment 'I despise Rishi Sunak', well George Galloway, I and a lot of people in this country despise you, your politics and the processes you try and pervert our political system to.
"The sooner you are gone the better."
Sam says it is "so rare in politics that there is someone who leaves an imprint on voters the size that George Galloway does".
"He is somebody who is a big figure, who gets noticed, who has been noticed, and that matters in this upcoming general election campaign.
"Not just about George Galloway, but I think what we saw on Friday was a sense that Rishi Sunak wants to talk about George Galloway, because he knows as painful as George Galloway will be for the whole political system, it will be more painful for his opponent Sir Keir Starmer."
Sam also points to another finding from the Voters Panel, which concerns what the voters believe Mr Galloway was doing when he was trying to get elected.
He says: "There is a sense that some politicians are campaigning on the basis of pitting some communities against each other.
"George Galloway, for the record, denies that. He says that he wasn't just going after the Muslim vote in Rochdale... and actually he has different messages for different communities.
"But there's a sense at its core that there's a little bit of that going on in our politics more generally."
Following the Rochdale by-election, Sky’s political editor Beth Rigby, the Labour MP for Birmingham Yardley, Jess Phillips, and former leader of the Scottish Conservatives, Ruth Davidson, discuss what George Galloway’s win means for parliament.
They examine the fallout from the by-election and ask why politics is not working for many people.
They also look ahead to this week's budget – predicting what Chancellor Jeremy Hunt might pull out of the bag.
A thought-provoking conversation with a healthy dose of fun.
Email Beth, Ruth, and Jess at [email protected], Tweet Beth @BethRigby, or send a WhatsApp voice note on 07934 200 444.
Warning: some explicit language.
👉 Listen above then tap here to follow Electoral Dysfunction wherever you get your podcasts 👈
The Sky News live poll tracker - collated and updated by our Data and Forensics team - aggregates various surveys to indicate how voters feel about different political parties.
Labour is still sitting comfortably on a roughly 20-point lead, averaging at 43.8% in the polls, with the Tories on 24.0%.
In third is Reform UK on 10.5%, followed by the Lib Dems on 9.5%.
The Green Party stands at 6.1%, and the SNP on 3.2%.
See the latest update below - and you can read more about the methodology behind the tracker here .
How much has your MP received in donations, earnings and gifts since the start of this parliament?
How much money has each of the political parties declared in donations?
What have All Parliamentary Party Groups received in benefits in kind?
And who are the sources of the money and resources that go into our political system?
The multi award-winning Westminster Accounts tool, created by Sky News and Tortoise Media, lets you explore all of those questions.
Use the quick start version below - toggle the drop down menu on the right to filter by donations, earnings and gifts - or head to the full site to explore in greater depth.
By Faye Brown , political reporter
The spring budget on 6 March is likely to be the last major fiscal event before the next general election, expected later this year.
The Tories have been hinting at further tax reductions in a bid to woo over voters as the party continues to languish behind Labour in the polls.
But as the country enters a recession, questions remain over whether there is enough so-called fiscal headroom in the Treasury's coffers to make such a move.
An income tax cut, a National Insurance cut, vape duty, fuel duty, help for first time buyers, ISA overhaul and child benefit reform have all been talked up in recent weeks.
Read more about what has been discussed below...
Jonathan Ashworth, the shadow paymaster general, has just claimed that this year's general election is "definitely coming in May".
He tells Sky News the Conservatives are "planning for May".
"My challenge today to Rishi Sunak is name that date."
To note, for a May election to take place, Mr Sunak would need to call the election towards the end of this month or the start of April.
The most likely date, if it will take place in May, is 2 May - the same day as the local elections.
However, Mr Sunak previously said it is his "working assumption" that the election will take place in the second half of 2024.
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Book great fares from United States to Paris. A world of adventure awaits. Discover great round-trip fares to Paris Start your adventure today.
Paris can be an incredibly expensive city.It is, after all, renowned for its luxury goods, gourmet restaurants, opulent palace hotels, and the like. Because of this, you may (logically) assume that seeing Paris on a budget isn't realistic, or would amount to a miserable experience that'd leave you feeling like a pauper.. Luckily, however, that's all a myth: a visit to Paris really doesn't have ...
How to plan a trip to Paris on a budget. Firstly, whether Paris, or any major capital, I think that there are a few basics that stand for budget traveling: Traveling with Worldpackers to get free accommodation (and often food) in exchange of a few hours of volunteer work. Couchsurfing (to stay for free with locals).
Paris on a budget: a penny-pincher's guide. Alexis recently finished working on Lonely Planet's new Paris guidebook, due to be published in April 2024. Here she shares her expert opinion on how to save money in Paris. Paris might be home to haute couture, haute cuisine and some legendary luxury hotels, but if you're still waiting for your ...
A Paris Museum Pass is the most affordable way to see them all as it provides access to over 50 museums in Paris and the surrounding region. A two-day pass costs 52 EUR, a four-day pass costs 66 EUR, and a six-day pass costs 78 EUR. It's a must if you're going to see at least 3 museums while in the city.
How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Paris cost? A one week trip to Paris usually costs around $1,759 (€1,626) for one person and $3,518 (€3,251) for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing. A two week trip to Paris on average costs around $3,518 (€3,251) for one person and ...
Food Tips - Eating in Paris on a Budget. Stay standing when eating in Paris. Our number one tip for saving money in Paris when dining out is to not sit down for coffee at a restaurant. Drink it at the bar while standing. You'll save the "sitting fee" that many Paris restaurants have.
12. Consider a "Paris Visite" travel card. If you plan to spend a lot of time getting around in the Paris Metro, consider buying a "Paris Visite" travel card, which offers unlimited travel on the Metro and bus system and various discounts from partnering businesses. Adult tickets cost €13.55 (one day), €22.05 (two days), €30.10 ...
The cost of a trip to Paris can vary significantly based on factors like travel season, accommodation choices, and personal spending habits. However, as a rough estimate, expect to budget around $200-$300 per day, which includes accommodation, meals, sightseeing, and local transportation.
It costs around €18 per person and grants you an hour-long relaxation while enjoying the fantastic Parisian Panorama. A Cruise on the river Seine is one of the cheapest activities in Paris, and I recommend doing it by night for the added value. Paris by night, hat's really something else.
It's much smaller than the Louvre and easier to navigate. If you're like me, and love nothing more than a fabulous Impressionist wing, you're in the right place. 1 Rue de la Légion d'Honneur, 75007 Paris. Open 9:30 a.m. - 6 p.m. Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday - Sunday, 9:30 a.m. - 9:45 p.m. Thursday, closed Monday. Website.
Metro. By far the cheapest, easiest way of moving through Paris is via the metro. The service runs every day (including public holidays) and tickets currently cost €1.92 each per trip, including all connections. You can also purchase a booklet ("carnet") of 10 tickets at a reduced price of €16.
Step 6: Budget for your trip to Paris. Now that you've booked everything you could from the comfort of your home, it's time to budget for your trip to Paris - that's an absolute must! It is not a secret that Paris is an expensive city. Therefore, budgeting and planning ahead will give you a pretty good idea of what you can spend in the ...
Table of Contents [ hide] How to Use This Trip to Paris Cost Guide. Budget Trip to Paris Cost: $50-$80/day. Mid-range Trip to Paris Cost: $120-$150/day. Luxury Trip to Paris Cost: $350/day & up. Quick Reference Sheet: Cost of Popular Paris Attractions. Free Things to Do in Paris. Getting to Paris On a Budget.
How to plan a trip to Paris, France, for the first time? Check out this Paris Trip Planner, the go-to guide to planning a trip to Paris 2024. ... But at the same time, the high season in Paris is not the best season to plan a trip to Paris in terms of budget (best accommodation sold out, higher prices). Also, the city is too crowded with ...
Set aside plenty of time in your day to simply gawk at Notre-Dame, or take a guided tour of 1.5-hour guided tour around the neighborhood of Notre Dame and Ile de la Cité for as little as $20. You can learn what the current plans are for the rebuild after the fire destroyed its roof and spires in 2019.
For a single ticket expect to pay $2 but you will get the most bang for your buck if you go with Paris Visite Pass which allows unlimited travel between various means of transport throughout the city. Prices start at $16 and can be purchased for 1, 2, 3 or 5 consecutive days.
Afternoon. Plan a visit to the Louvre Museum on your first day, and absolutely purchase your tickets in advance. The lines to buy tickets on site are horrendous and will unnecessarily waste time during your precious 2 days in Paris. Once inside, you'll likely see another obnoxious line going across the main lobby.
Planning Your Trip . Best Time to Visit: Generally, the best time to visit Paris is between late spring and late summer, when outdoor activities, lively events, and nearby day trips allow you to experience the city to the fullest.The winter holiday season is also a festive and cheerful time to go, but cold weather may detract some. Language: French is the official language in Paris.
For many, Paris is the trip of a lifetime and it can be a very expensive city without proper planning. Fortunately, there are lots of ways to have fun in Paris, even on a tight budget. Today I'm sharing tips on how to visit Paris for families on a budget, including tips for where to stay in Paris and things to do.
Jardin des Tuileries, Place de la Concorde, 1st arrondissement, +33 1 44 50 43 00, musee-orangerie.fr. Open Wednesday-Monday from 9am-6pm; last entry at 5:15pm. Closed Tuesdays. Admission is 12.50 EUR and is free on the first Sunday of the month. Budget travel tip: Get the Paris Museum Pass.
When it comes to exploring Paris, travelers typically find themselves budgeting between $93 and $723 per day for solo adventures and $187 to $1,446 if you're traveling as a couple. Now, that's a broad range, but the typical trip, on average, is $251 (€232) per person per day. This average cost covers sightseeing, accommodation, meals, and ...
Luckily Paris is a big enough city that it isn't impossible to plan a last-minute trip, you just need to be a bit more flexible on your budget and expectations. Ideally, you will start planning a trip to Paris at least three months in advance before prime tickets to the Eiffel Tower or the Louvre have been sold out.
Get my Paris travel guide here: https://www.etsy.com/listing/1381812516/paris-france-travel-guide-paris-vacationHow to plan a trip to Paris on a budget? I ha...
The 2024 Paris Olympics Insider Guide to Saving Money on Travel Of the 100 million tickets up for grabs, 45% of tickets sold directly cost less than 100 euros, organizers say. By Sally French
2. Set a budget. Let's talk about the elephant in the room: budgeting. Traveling to Europe from India can be a significant investment, so setting a realistic budget for your trip is essential.
The pre-election budget will be delivered on Wednesday, with the Conservatives hoping to shift the dial as they languish in the polls. Listen to this week's Politics at Jack and Sam's podcast as ...