Best Time to Travel to Paris

BEST time to journey to Paris is essential to benefit from your journey, avoiding the throngs of vacationers and getting one of the best worth on your cash. Paris has a various vary of experiences to supply all year long, from its iconic landmarks to the charming streets of its neighborhoods.

The town’s local weather is temperate, with summers being scorching and humid, and winters being cool and moist. Spring and autumn are delicate and nice, making them best instances to go to. Nevertheless, the height vacationer season, which runs from June to August, may be overwhelming for these searching for a extra relaxed expertise.

Elements Affecting Finest Time to Journey to Paris

Paris, the Metropolis of Gentle, is a well-liked vacationer vacation spot that pulls tens of millions of holiday makers yearly. The town’s appeal, historical past, and cultural heritage make it a must-visit vacation spot for a lot of. Nevertheless, one of the best time to go to Paris relies on a number of components, together with the season, temperature, and climate circumstances. On this part, we’ll discover the components that have an effect on one of the best time to journey to Paris.

Impression of Season on Vacationer Numbers in Paris

The season has a big influence on the variety of vacationers in Paris. In keeping with official statistics, the height vacationer season in Paris is in the course of the summer season months of June to August, with a mean of 10 million vacationers monthly. That is adopted by the shoulder season of September to November and March to Might, which sees a mean of 5-7 million vacationers monthly. The low season, from December to February, sees the bottom variety of vacationers, with a mean of 2-3 million vacationers monthly. The inflow of vacationers in the course of the peak season could make common sights and streets very crowded, whereas the low season provides a extra relaxed and peaceable expertise.

Comparability of Temperatures between Spring and Summer season

Paris experiences a temperate local weather, with heat summers and delicate winters. The typical excessive temperature in June, the primary month of summer season, is round 22°C (72°F), whereas the typical excessive temperature in July and August is round 25°C (77°F). In distinction, the typical excessive temperature in March, the primary month of spring, is round 12°C (54°F), whereas the typical excessive temperature in April and Might is round 18°C (64°F). The temperature distinction between spring and summer season is critical, with summer season temperatures being round 5-7°C (9-13°F) increased than spring temperatures. This makes summer season a extra nice time to go to Paris, with lengthy days and heat climate best for out of doors actions.

How Climate Circumstances Have an effect on Out of doors Actions in Paris

The climate circumstances in Paris can have an effect on out of doors actions in numerous methods. Through the summer season months, the nice and cozy climate makes it a great time for out of doors actions equivalent to boating on the Seine River, picnicking within the parks, and biking alongside town’s bike paths. Nevertheless, the sunshine also can make town’s streets and sights very crowded, making it troublesome to navigate. In distinction, the spring and autumn seasons provide delicate temperatures and fewer crowds, making it a good time to discover town’s out of doors sights, such because the Luxembourg Gardens and the Champ de Mars. The winter months, from December to February, are chilly and moist, making it much less best for out of doors actions. Nevertheless, the Christmas markets and festive environment make it a good time to go to Paris for a extra relaxed and peaceable expertise.

Paris’s Seasons and Their Traits

Relating to Paris, town of affection and lights, the season you go to can vastly influence your expertise. From the bustling streets of summer season to the comfortable appeal of winter, every season brings its distinctive taste to town. On this part, we’ll delve into the totally different seasons and what you may anticipate from every.

Peak Vacationer Season (June to August)

Best Time to Travel to Paris

When you’re on the lookout for a summer season journey in Paris, June to August is the height vacationer season. That is the time when town is at its busiest, with colleges on summer season break and households on trip. The climate is heat and sunny, making it excellent for out of doors actions like visiting the Eiffel Tower, strolling alongside the Seine, or exploring town’s many parks and gardens.

The summer season months additionally convey a variety of festivals and occasions to town, together with the Paris Trend Week, Rock en Seine music competition, and the Bastille Day celebrations. These occasions appeal to guests from all around the world, making it a vibrant and energetic time to be within the metropolis.

Nevertheless, be ready for the crowds and better costs for lodging and vacationer sights. It is also a good suggestion to e-book your tickets and reservations upfront to keep away from the stress of last-minute preparations.


Summer season Actions

  • Go to the Eiffel Tower and take within the gorgeous views of town from the highest.
  • Stroll alongside the Seine and discover town’s many bridges and quays.
  • Discover town’s many parks and gardens, such because the Luxembourg Gardens and the Tuileries Backyard.
  • Attend one of many many summer season festivals and occasions, such because the Paris Trend Week or the Rock en Seine music competition.

Shoulder Season (April to Might and September to October)

The shoulder season is a good time to go to Paris for those who’re on the lookout for milder climate and smaller crowds. The temperatures are nice, starting from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), making it excellent for sightseeing and out of doors actions.

The shoulder season additionally brings a number of advantages, together with decrease costs for lodging and vacationer sights, and a extra relaxed environment. It is a good time to discover town’s many museums and galleries, because the summer season crowds have dissipated and the winter chill is but to reach.


Shoulder Season Actions

  • Discover town’s many museums and galleries, such because the Louvre and the Orsay.
  • Take a guided tour of town’s well-known landmarks, such because the Eiffel Tower and Notre-Dame Cathedral.
  • Go to town’s many markets and meals halls, such because the Marché aux Puces de Saint-Ouen and the Le Grand Épicerie de Paris.
  • Take a motorbike tour or hire a motorbike and discover town’s many bike-friendly streets and paths.

Off-Season (November to March): Finest Time To Journey To Paris

Best time to travel to paris

When you’re on the lookout for a extra relaxed and budget-friendly expertise in Paris, the low season is the best way to go. The temperatures are cooler, starting from 0°C to 10°C (32°F to 50°F), however the metropolis takes on a comfy appeal that is excellent for a winter wonderland expertise.

The low season additionally brings a number of advantages, together with decrease costs for lodging and vacationer sights, and a extra relaxed environment. It is a good time to discover town’s many museums and galleries, because the summer season crowds have dissipated and the spring flowers are but to bloom.

Nevertheless, be ready for the opportunity of rain and colder temperatures. It is also a good suggestion to pack accordingly and produce heat clothes and cozy sneakers.


Off-Season Actions

  • Discover town’s many museums and galleries, such because the Louvre and the Orsay.
  • Take a guided tour of town’s well-known landmarks, such because the Eiffel Tower and Notre-Dame Cathedral.
  • Go to town’s many Christmas markets and festive occasions, such because the Champs-Élysées Christmas market and the ice rink on the Eiffel Tower.
  • Take a cooking class and learn to make conventional French dishes, equivalent to coq au vin and bouillabaisse.

Winter Wonderland

Winter in Paris is a magical time, with town reworked right into a winter wonderland. The frosty air is full of the scent of roasting chestnuts and scorching chocolate, and town’s well-known landmarks are decked out in festive lights and decorations.

Think about strolling by way of town’s streets, taking within the sights and sounds of the vacation season. The Eiffel Tower is decked out in twinkling lights, and the Champs-Élysées is lined with festive stalls and markets.

As you wander by way of town, you may come throughout numerous festive occasions and actions, from ice skating and sledding to Christmas markets and vacation concert events. It is a time of 12 months that is certain to fill your coronary heart with pleasure and your senses with surprise.

“Paris within the winter is sort of a fairy story,” mentioned a neighborhood resident.

Finest Time to Go to Paris Based mostly on Pursuits

Paris, the Metropolis of Gentle, is a treasure trove of experiences that cater to various pursuits. Whether or not you are an artwork aficionado, an out of doors fanatic, or a meals connoisseur, Paris has one thing to supply. This is a breakdown of one of the best time to go to Paris based mostly in your pursuits.

Artwork Lovers: Museum Exhibition Schedules

Paris is residence to a number of the world’s most iconic museums, together with the Louvre, Orsay, and Rodin. When you’re an artwork fanatic, one of the best time to go to Paris is in the course of the spring (April-Might) or autumn (September-October) when the climate is delicate and the crowds are manageable. These durations coincide with the museums’ peak exhibition seasons, that includes collections that embody works by the Previous Masters, Impressionists, and Trendy artists.

  • The Louvre Museum’s hottest exhibitions, such because the Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo, are on show throughout these durations.
  • The Orsay Museum’s Impressionist and Publish-Impressionist collections are additionally showcased throughout this time.
  • The Rodin Museum’s intensive assortment of sculptures and gardens is open year-round, however the spring and autumn seasons provide the right time to discover with out the summer season warmth.

Out of doors Fans: Parks and Gardens

Paris boasts quite a few parks and gardens that present respite from the bustling metropolis life. For out of doors lovers, one of the best time to go to Paris is in the course of the spring (April-Might) or summer season (June-August) when the parks are in full bloom.

Park/Backyard Distinctive Characteristic
Luxembourg Gardens Surrealistic fountains and statues amidst lovely flowerbeds and bushes.
Champ de Mars A panoramic view of the Eiffel Tower, surrounded by gardens and road performers.
Tuileries Backyard a tranquil oasis with lovely fountains, statues, and a serene environment.

Foodies: Seasonal Culinary Delights

Paris is famend for its culinary scene, with a deal with contemporary, seasonal substances. For foodies, one of the best time to go to Paris is in the course of the spring (April-Might) or autumn (September-October) when the markets are full of an array of colourful fruits, greens, and artisanal merchandise.

  • The spring season marks the arrival of contemporary asparagus, strawberries, and rhubarb, that are utilized in numerous dishes all through town.
  • The autumn season brings an abundance of pumpkin, apple, and chestnuts, that are utilized in conventional French desserts and savory dishes.
  • You should definitely go to the well-known Marché aux Puces de Saint-Ouen (flea market) for distinctive culinary finds and antiques.

Festivals and Occasions in Paris

Paris is a metropolis that by no means sleeps, and its vibrant environment is mirrored within the quite a few festivals and occasions that happen all year long. From grand-scale celebrations to intimate gatherings, there’s all the time one thing occurring within the Metropolis of Gentle that showcases its distinctive character and appeal.

Notable Festivals and Occasions in Paris

Paris hosts a variety of festivals and occasions that cater to totally different pursuits and preferences. Listed here are a number of the most notable ones:

  • Bastille Day (July 14th): This nationwide vacation commemorates the Storming of the Bastille, marking the start of the French Revolution. The day is widely known with grand navy parades, fireworks, and road events throughout town.
  • New 12 months’s Eve (December thirty first): Parisians and vacationers alike collect on the Champs-Élysées and different key landmarks to look at the fireworks and depend right down to midnight.
  • Rock en Seine (September): A 3-day music competition that includes each native and worldwide artists, held on the island of Île-de-France.
  • Paris Trend Week (February and September): A twice-yearly occasion that showcases the newest style tendencies and types from prime designers.
  • Montmartre Grape Harvest Competition (August): A celebration of the grape harvest within the historic Montmartre neighborhood, that includes dwell music, wine tastings, and conventional meals stalls.
  • Paris Marathon (April): One of many largest marathons on the earth, attracting runners from across the globe.

These occasions not solely present a glimpse into Parisian tradition but in addition influence vacationer availability and costs. For example, throughout Bastille Day, many resorts and sights enhance their costs, whereas in the course of the low season, costs are usually decrease.

The Significance of Main Occasions

Main occasions like Bastille Day and New 12 months’s Eve are vital in Paris as they bring about the neighborhood collectively, showcase town’s resilience, and supply a window into its wealthy historical past and tradition. These occasions usually contain elaborate preparations, together with safety checks, infrastructure upgrades, and logistics planning, which may influence vacationer availability and costs.

Impression on Vacationer Availability and Costs

Main occasions in Paris can considerably influence vacationer availability and costs. For example, throughout peak season (June to August), costs for lodging and sights are usually increased. In distinction, in the course of the low season (November to March), costs are usually decrease, making it a extra reasonably priced time to go to. Nevertheless, some occasions like Bastille Day may appeal to numerous vacationers, which can lead to increased costs for lodging and sights within the surrounding space.

Ideas for Planning Your Journey

To benefit from your journey to Paris, plan forward and take into account visiting in the course of the shoulder season (April to Might or September to October). These durations provide delicate climate, smaller crowds, and decrease costs. Moreover, analysis the occasions and festivities occurring throughout your go to to tailor your itinerary accordingly.

Avoiding Crowds and Excessive Costs

To keep away from the crowds and excessive costs related to main occasions, take into account visiting common sights throughout off-peak hours or utilizing different modes of transportation. For example, visiting the Eiffel Tower in the course of the early morning or late night will help you keep away from the crowds and luxuriate in a extra peaceable expertise.

Getting the Most Out of Paris

With its wealthy historical past, gorgeous structure, and vibrant cultural scene, Paris is a metropolis that has one thing for everybody. By planning your journey strategically and benefiting from town’s many festivals and occasions, you may create unforgettable reminiscences and expertise one of the best of Paris.

Making ready for Your Journey to Paris

Best time to travel to paris

When planning a visit to Paris, France, there are a number of important paperwork and preparations that it’s essential to maintain earlier than embarking in your journey. On this part, we’ll information you thru the required paperwork, transportation programs, and packing ideas that can guarantee a easy and gratifying journey to the Metropolis of Gentle.

Essential Paperwork for Touring to France

To journey to France, you will want to hold particular paperwork with you. These paperwork embody:

  • A legitimate passport, with at the very least six months’ validity from the date of entry into France.
  • A legitimate visa, if required (verify the French authorities’s official web site for visa necessities).
  • A accomplished arrival type, which might be offered by your airline or out there on the airport.
  • Medical health insurance, which covers emergency medical remedy and hospitalization.
  • A duplicate of your flight itinerary and resort reservation.

It is all the time a good suggestion to make photocopies of those paperwork and go away a duplicate with a trusted good friend or member of the family in case of an emergency.

Important Ideas for Navigating Paris’s Transportation Programs

Paris has a well-developed public transportation system, together with buses, trams, and the well-known Metro. To navigate this technique successfully, comply with the following pointers:

  • Buy a Navigo Decouverte card or a Carnet of 10 tickets, which is able to offer you entry to public transportation and financial savings on particular person tickets.
  • Use the Paris Metro map to plan your route upfront and keep away from getting misplaced within the metropolis.
  • Be conscious of pickpocketing in crowded areas and vacationer hotspots, and preserve your valuables safe.
  • Think about buying a Paris Visite cross, which grants you limitless entry to public transportation and reductions on sights.

It is important to know the Paris Metro system, together with the traces and stations, to make sure a seamless and gratifying expertise.

Packing for Various Parisian Climate Circumstances

Paris’s climate may be unpredictable and alter shortly, with temperatures starting from cool to heat all year long. Be ready for the next climate circumstances:

  • Spring (April-Might) and autumn (September-October) are one of the best instances to go to Paris, with delicate temperatures and fewer vacationers.
  • Summer season (June-August) may be scorching and humid, with occasional thunderstorms.
  • Winter (December-February) may be chilly and wet, with occasional snowfall.

Pack accordingly, with layers of clothes, a water-proof jacket, and cozy strolling sneakers. Remember to convey a umbrella, as Paris is legendary for its rain showers.

Keep in mind to verify the climate forecast earlier than your journey and regulate your packing listing accordingly.

Paris’s Cultural Sights

Paris, the Metropolis of Gentle, is famend for its wealthy cultural heritage, which is mirrored in its iconic landmarks, museums, artwork galleries, and efficiency venues. From world-class opera homes to historic libraries, Paris has a plethora of cultural sights that cater to various pursuits. On this part, we’ll delve into the evolution of Paris’s cultural scene, discover its well-known landmarks, and spotlight its iconic cultural establishments.

The Historical past and Structure of Paris’s Well-known Landmarks

The Eiffel Tower, the Arc de Triomphe, and the Louvre Museum are only a few examples of Paris’s most iconic landmarks. These constructions aren’t solely breathtakingly lovely but in addition steeped in historical past. The Eiffel Tower, for example, was constructed for the 1889 World’s Truthful and was initially meant to be a brief construction. Nevertheless, it grew to become an immediate icon of town and has since been preserved and restored to its former glory. Equally, the Louvre Museum was initially a fortress constructed within the twelfth century and now homes a number of the world’s most famous artworks, together with the Mona Lisa.

Museums and Artwork Galleries

Paris is residence to over 150 museums and artwork galleries, every providing a novel perspective on town’s cultural heritage. The Louvre, as talked about earlier, is likely one of the largest and most visited museums on the earth. Different notable museums embody the Musée d’Orsay, which options a powerful assortment of Impressionist and Publish-Impressionist artwork, and the Centre Pompidou, which showcases fashionable and up to date artwork. The town’s many artwork galleries provide a platform for rising and established artists to showcase their work.

The Evolution of Paris’s Cultural Scene

Over the centuries, Paris has advanced from a metropolis of classical music and theater to a hub of up to date artwork, style, and efficiency. The town’s vibrant cultural scene is characterised by a plethora of festivals and occasions, from the well-known Cannes Movie Competition to the avant-garde Trend Week. The town’s music scene is equally various, with every thing from classical concert events on the Philharmonie de Paris to underground golf equipment within the Marais neighborhood.

Paris’s Iconic Cultural Establishments, Finest time to journey to paris

The Opéra Nationwide de Paris, established in 1669, is likely one of the oldest and most prestigious opera corporations on the earth. The town’s theaters, together with the enduring Comédie-Française, provide a variety of productions, from classical performs to fashionable works by French playwrights. The Paris Opera Ballet is likely one of the most famous ballet corporations on the earth, with a historical past relationship again to 1661. The town’s many libraries, together with the Bibliothèque nationale de France, are world-class establishments that home an unlimited assortment of uncommon books, manuscripts, and historic paperwork.

Musical Heritage

Paris has a wealthy musical heritage, which is obvious in its many live performance halls and efficiency venues. The town’s cabarets, such because the world-famous Moulin Rouge, provide a glimpse into its glamorous previous, whereas town’s many jazz golf equipment, just like the Duc des Lombards, showcase town’s enduring love affair with jazz. The town’s classical music scene is characterised by top-notch orchestras, together with the Orchestre de Paris, and esteemed soloists who carry out on the Philharmonie de Paris and different live performance halls.

Theaters and Dance Firms

Paris’s theater scene is equally spectacular, with a variety of productions that cater to various tastes. From traditional comedies to avant-garde performances, town’s theaters provide one thing for everybody. The Comédie-Française, based in 1680, is likely one of the oldest and most revered theaters on the earth, with a repertoire that features works by Molière and different French playwrights. The town’s many dance corporations, together with the Paris Opera Ballet, provide a glimpse into the world of classical ballet, in addition to up to date and experimental dance.

Libraries and Archives

Paris’s libraries and archives are world-class establishments that home an unlimited assortment of uncommon books, manuscripts, and historic paperwork. The Bibliothèque nationale de France, based in 1368, is likely one of the oldest and largest libraries on the earth, with a set that features over 35 million objects. The town’s many manuscript libraries, just like the Bibliothèque de l’Arsenal, showcase town’s wealthy literary and inventive heritage.

Budgeting and Value Issues

When planning a visit to the Metropolis of Gentle, it is essential to set a sensible finances to make sure a easy and gratifying expertise. Paris, being one of the crucial visited cities on the earth, may be fairly dear, particularly in terms of lodging, meals, and sights.

The price of touring to Paris varies vastly relying on the time of 12 months, with costs skyrocketing throughout peak season (June to August) and dropping considerably in the course of the low season (November to March). Understanding these fluctuations will help you benefit from your journey finances.

Lodging Prices

Paris provides a variety of lodging to go well with all budgets. From cozy hostels to luxurious resorts, you could find a spot to remain that matches your monetary scenario.

  1. CampusFrance recommends that worldwide college students finances round €400 to €600 monthly for a shared condominium in Paris.
  2. For a mid-range resort, you may anticipate to pay round €80 to €120 per evening.
  3. A budget-friendly hostel can value as little as €20 to €30 per evening for a dormitory mattress.

Meals Prices

Consuming out in Paris may be an costly affair, however you may nonetheless get pleasure from scrumptious meals on a finances.

  • Grabbing a croissant or baguette from a bakery or road vendor can value as little as €2 to €5.
  • Reasonable-priced eating places provide meals for round €15 to €25 per individual.
  • For a flowery dinner at a Michelin-starred restaurant, be ready to pay upwards of €50 to €100 per individual.

Attraction Prices

Paris is stuffed with breathtaking sights, however some may be fairly dear.

Attraction Value (€)
Eiffel Tower 17 (entry), 29 (elevate to prime)
Louvre Museum 18 (entry)
Montmartre Free (however remember to tip your artists!)

Budgeting Ideas

To benefit from your finances, take into account the next ideas:

Paris is a metropolis that rewards those that take their time and discover at a leisurely tempo. By consuming like a neighborhood, avoiding touristy areas, and benefiting from free sights, you may expertise the Metropolis of Gentle with out breaking the financial institution.

  1. Eat at native cafes or road meals stalls as an alternative of touristy eating places.
  2. Use public transportation or stroll as an alternative of taking taxis or ride-sharing companies.
  3. Go to free museums and sights, such because the Luxembourg Gardens or Pont des Arts.

Ideas for Visiting Paris Throughout Particular Occasions

Visiting Paris throughout particular occasions or festivals generally is a thrilling expertise, but it surely requires cautious planning to benefit from your journey. From navigating town throughout main festivals to securing tickets for common occasions, we have professional recommendation that will help you benefit from your go to.

When attending festivals and occasions in Paris, it is important to plan forward and e-book your lodging and tickets upfront. This may enable you keep away from last-minute stress and guarantee that you would be able to attend the occasions and actions that curiosity you probably the most. Listed here are some ideas for visiting Paris throughout particular occasions:

Navigating the Metropolis Throughout Main Festivals

Main festivals like Bastille Day and the French Open can appeal to massive crowds and trigger visitors congestion. To navigate town easily throughout these occasions, take into account the next ideas:

  • Arrive early at common spots and occasions to keep away from lengthy queues and crowds.
  • Use public transportation or stroll as an alternative of driving, as visitors may be chaotic.
  • Obtain a visitors and transportation app like Citymapper that will help you navigate town.
  • Be conscious of pedestrian zones and restricted entry areas throughout festivals.

Lodging and Actions for Particular Occasions

Totally different occasions provide distinctive experiences and actions which might be excellent for guests. Listed here are some strategies for lodging and actions to contemplate for particular occasions:

  • Bastille Day (July 14th): Keep within the Latin Quarter or Le Marais space for straightforward entry to the Eiffel Tower and Champs-Elysées. Take part within the navy parade, fireworks show, and road performances.
  • French Open (late Might to early June): E book a resort or condominium within the fifteenth or sixteenth arrondissement for proximity to the Roland-Garros stadium. Get pleasure from tennis matches, meals stalls, and dwell music.
  • Rock en Seine (mid-August): Keep within the Saint-Denis space for entry to the competition grounds. Get pleasure from dwell rock music performances, meals vans, and artwork installations.

Securing Tickets for Common Occasions and Exhibitions

Common occasions and exhibitions in Paris may be extremely wanted, making it difficult to safe tickets. Listed here are some professional ideas for getting tickets:

Plan forward and e-book tickets upfront, particularly for common occasions just like the Louvre Museum or Eiffel Tower.

  • Use on-line ticketing platforms like Ticketmaster, Billetix, or the official web site of the occasion or exhibition.
  • li>Think about buying tickets for the early morning or late night classes to keep away from crowds.

  • Search for last-minute ticket availability on social media or on the field workplace.

Skilled Recommendation

Visiting Paris throughout particular occasions requires flexibility and flexibility. Listed here are some professional ideas to remember:

Be ready for crowds, noise, and disruptions, and prioritize your security and luxury.

  • Keep knowledgeable about occasion schedules, highway closures, and transportation adjustments.
  • Respect native customs, traditions, and noise restrictions throughout festivals.
  • Take breaks and recharge in quieter areas or parks.

Last Overview

Whether or not you are a historical past buff, artwork lover, or foodie, Paris has one thing for everybody. With its wealthy cultural heritage, gorgeous structure, and world-class museums, Paris is the last word vacation spot for anybody trying to discover the European mainland. So, plan your journey with one of the best time to go to Paris in thoughts and benefit from your journey to the Metropolis of Gentle!

Common Questions

Q: What’s the greatest time to go to Paris for artwork lovers?

A: The most effective time to go to Paris for artwork lovers is in the course of the spring (April to Might) and autumn (September to October) seasons, when town’s museums and galleries are much less crowded and temperatures are delicate.

Q: Can I nonetheless get pleasure from out of doors actions in Paris in the course of the winter season?

A: Sure, you may nonetheless get pleasure from out of doors actions in Paris in the course of the winter season, equivalent to visiting the Christmas markets, ice skating, and taking a winter stroll alongside the Seine River.

Q: What’s one of the simplest ways to keep away from crowds in Paris throughout peak season?

A: One of the best ways to keep away from crowds in Paris throughout peak season is to go to common sights early within the morning or later within the night, and take into account buying a Paris Museum Cross, which grants you skip-the-line entry to many sights.