This city stands as a monumental urban and cultural center in the heart of France. Its foundations date back to the third century BC when it was established by a Gallic tribe. Over centuries, Paris went through several pivotal moments, such as Roman conquests, its flourishing during the Middle Ages, the Renaissance when several of its landmarks were constructed, and its critical role during the French Revolution.

Don’t miss visiting these places while you’re in Paris:

• Eiffel Tower
• Louvre Museum
• Arc de Triomphe
• Notre-Dame
• Palace of Versailles
• Sainte-Chapelle
• Disneyland Paris
• Fondation Louis Vuitton
• Shakespeare and Company

But beyond those marvels, Paris is also a center for cultural events. For one, designers, celebrities, models, and influencers gather at Paris Fashion Week, a globally anticipated event. Furthermore, the city’s culinary scene is also beyond measure. Aside from the famous croissant, be sure to try some haute cuisines and dine in at bistros around the city.

Prepare for your explorations

Familiarize yourself with basic French phrases. This will help you talk to locals if you need help finding directions. Ensure you have navigation apps like Google Maps on your phone, and keep some cash on hand. Even if Paris has embraced modernity, there are still smaller towns where digital payments may not be accepted.

Book in advance

Paris is one of the most popular destinations in the world, so pre-book everything in advance! Accommodation in the most desirable neighborhoods and near landmarks like the Eiffel Tower fill up quickly. Likewise with museums and restaurants, especially in the summer! Finally, booking transportation in advance will get you the best prices.

Düsseldorf to Paris by bus

Buses are still the most economical option, though travel time takes longer, specifically up to six hours. Also, you won’t get maximum convenience as buses provide limited legroom and facilities. This may not be the best choice if you want to reach Paris in the fastest possible time. Bus ticket prices start at $46 (42 euros).

Düsseldorf to Paris by plane

For those who want the fastest method, choose to take a flight, which will take you around four hours, including check-in and commute times to and from airports. But this option is also way more expensive. A flight ticket ranges from $102 (93 euros) to as high as $346 (317 euros).

Düsseldorf to Paris by rental car

Buses may be economical, but facilities are limited. Airplanes may be fast, but a flight ticket is expensive. For a way that will give you more freedom to visit places, choose to go on a road trip. While the travel time takes about five hours, you’ll be able to stop by cities such as Brussels and Reims without having to rush. The big drawback is navigating Paris' streets and finding parking.

Düsseldorf to Paris with Daytrip

A private transfer with Daytrip gives all the advantages of driving without the stress of navigating foreign roads. With Daytrip, your English-speaking driver will pick you up at your accommodation in Düsseldorf at your desired departure time, and load your luggage before hitting the road to Paris.

On the way, you can talk about local culture or stop for sightseeing to have a truly enriching travel experience rather than watch the scenery pass you by.

The drive without stops takes about 5 hours, and once you arrive in Paris, you'll be brought to the front door of your hotel. You won't need to try to find your way or secure parking and then bring your luggage on foot!

See iconic artworks at the Louvre Museum

Of course, the Louvre Museum. Film buffs know this place as the setting of the movie adaptation of “The Da Vinci Code”. Once a palace that housed French kings, the Louvre is now a museum featuring collections spanning 10,000 years of history. Some of the artworks here are the Venus de Milo, the Mona Lisa, the Winged Victory of Samothrace, and Botticelli frescoes, among others.

Watch the 19th-century cabaret, Moulin Rouge

As much as you’d like to grab a seat at Paris Fashion Week, it’s difficult as it’s a strictly by-invite-only event. The only thing you can do is wait outside the venues if you want to spot and take photos of celebrities. But don’t worry, you can still get a taste of authentic Parisian culture with shows like the Moulin Rouge. Ticket prices start at $95 (87 euros).

More not-to-miss experiences in Paris are catching a ballet performance at Palais Garnier, getting a taste of French cuisine, and shopping at Champs-Élysées.