From Charles de Gaulle (CDG): the RER B train reaches the centre in about 35 minutes, or taxis at a flat fare of roughly EUR 56-65 depending on the bank. Ignore drivers soliciting inside the terminal - official ranks only.
From Orly (ORY): metro line 14 runs straight into central Paris in about 25 minutes, or taxis at a flat fare of roughly EUR 36-44.
The metro is unbeatable: a single ticket costs about EUR 2.50, and a rechargeable Navigo Easy card makes multi-ride bundles cheaper. Between adjacent sights, walking under a kilometre usually beats the metro.
Keep your ticket until you exit - inspections are common and fines immediate.
April-June and September-October are the sweet spot: mild weather, gardens in full glory. July-August runs hotter and busier, and many local restaurants close for weeks in August.
Winter is quieter and cheaper; museums and cafes compensate for short days - and December's holiday lights are an experience of their own.
The Grand Mosque of Paris in the 5th arrondissement (beside the Jardin des Plantes) welcomes worshippers daily, and its tearoom of mint tea and Maghrebi sweets is a landmark in itself. Eastern dining clusters on Rue du Faubourg Saint-Denis, the Latin Quarter and around the Champs-Elysees - see our Where to Eat section.
Budget: EUR 80-120 per person (simple stay, metro, quick meals, one paid sight). Mid-range: EUR 180-280. Free landmarks abound - see the Free filter in our guide.
Europe-wide emergency: 112. Mind pickpockets on the metro and around major sights; ignore the petition clipboards and wrist-string tricks. Most museums close Monday or Tuesday - check each place's page before shaping your day.