Paris, the city of love and lights, is one of the most visited cities in the world. With its beautiful architecture, rich history, and cultural attractions, it’s no wonder why so many people choose to visit this charming city.
One question that often comes up for visitors is, “How long does it take to walk around Paris?” The answer isn’t straightforward, as it depends on several factors such as your pace, the areas you want to cover, and any stops you plan to make along the way.
To give you an idea of how long it might take to walk around Paris, we’ve broken down some popular routes and attractions.
Walking the perimeter of Paris
If you were to walk around the entire perimeter of Paris without stopping at any attractions or taking breaks along the way, it would take approximately six hours. The distance around Paris is roughly 35 kilometers (21 miles), so this would be a considerable undertaking. However, unless you’re planning on walking for an entire day straight without stopping or taking any pictures along the way, chances are you’ll want to break up your journey.
Walking through central Paris
If you’re interested in exploring central Paris on foot and seeing some of its most famous landmarks like the Eiffel Tower or Notre Dame Cathedral, then a good place to start is at Place de la Concorde. From there, head west towards the Champs-Elysées. This famous avenue is lined with shops and cafes and leads directly up to the Arc de Triomphe.
From there, you could head south towards the Eiffel Tower. This iconic structure is a must-see for anyone visiting Paris for the first time. It’s located in Champ de Mars park and offers stunning views over the city.
After visiting the Eiffel Tower, consider crossing over to Ile de la Cite where Notre Dame Cathedral is located. This stunning cathedral is a prime example of Gothic architecture and has stood the test of time for over 800 years.
Walking time for central Paris
Walking around central Paris takes around three to four hours, depending on your pace and how long you spend at each attraction. However, this route only includes a few of the many attractions the city has to offer.
Other areas to explore on foot
If you’re interested in exploring other areas of Paris on foot, consider checking out some of the city’s famous neighborhoods like Montmartre or Le Marais. Montmartre is known for its charming cobblestone streets and artist community, while Le Marais boasts some of the best boutiques and cafes in the city.
Walking time for other areas
The walking times for these areas can vary but are generally around two to three hours depending on how much ground you want to cover.
Tips for walking around Paris
No matter where you choose to walk in Paris, there are a few tips you should keep in mind:
- Wear comfortable shoes: You’ll be doing a lot of walking, so make sure your footwear can handle it.
- Stay hydrated: Bring a water bottle with you and refill it at public drinking fountains throughout the city.
- Take breaks: Don’t feel like you need to rush through everything in one day. Take breaks, sit down at a cafe, and enjoy the scenery.
- Stay safe: Like any big city, there are areas that may not be safe for tourists. Be aware of your surroundings and stick to well-lit, populated areas.
In conclusion, how long it takes to walk around Paris depends entirely on what you want to see and do. Whether you’re looking to explore central Paris or venture out into some of the city’s charming neighborhoods, there’s no shortage of things to see and do on foot. Just make sure you take your time, wear comfortable shoes, and enjoy the journey.