Holiday rentals in Paris

Three iconic places to discover in Paris

Paris is home to a wealth of monuments and museums that embody French history, art and architecture. During a stay in a holiday let in the capital, you’ll discover these major sites that shape Paris’s identity. Here are three unmissable attractions that are well worth a visit.

1. The Eiffel Tower

Since 1889, the Eiffel Tower has towered over Paris at a height of 330 metres. Built by Gustave Eiffel for the World’s Fair, this wrought-iron structure has become the capital’s ultimate symbol. Every year, millions of visitors make their way up to the upper levels to admire the panoramic view stretching across the whole city. The monument captivates first-time visitors just as much as the Parisians who pass by it every day. In the late afternoon, when the spotlights come on, the tower glows with a golden light that is well worth seeing.

2. The Louvre Museum

The Louvre is situated in the 1st arrondissement, on the banks of the Seine, within the walls of a former royal palace converted into an art gallery. It is the world’s largest art museum, housing nearly 35,000 works. Leonardo da Vinci’s Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo sit alongside Egyptian collections, paintings by Italian masters and ancient sculptures. A well-located holiday rental allows you to walk there and spend several days exploring its galleries at your leisure. The building itself, with its inner courtyard and modern pyramid, is a destination in its own right.

3. Notre-Dame Cathedral, Paris

Notre-Dame has stood on the Île de la Cité since the 12th century, a jewel of French Gothic architecture recognisable by its flying buttresses and rose windows. The fire in April 2019 damaged the cathedral, but restoration work has been completed and the monument reopened its doors in December 2024. Visiting the restored vaults, the refurbished stained-glass windows and the revitalised sculptures once again is a moving experience. The cathedral remains a place of pilgrimage and admiration for visitors from all over the world.

These three sites embody Parisian creative genius, from the bold innovations of the 19th century to contemporary restorations. Discovering them whilst staying in a holiday let means walking in the footsteps of centuries of history and understanding what makes Paris unique.

The ideal season for renting a holiday let in Paris

Each season transforms the face of the capital and offers a unique experience. The choice of when to stay depends on the atmosphere you’re looking for and the activities that appeal to you.

Spring. From March to May, Paris gently comes to life. Temperatures rise gradually, the gardens come into bloom, and the outdoor cafés fill up once more. It’s the perfect time of year to discover the city on foot, stroll along the Seine or explore the parks without having to endure the summer heat. Holiday rentals provide a comfortable base for active days and cool evenings. Rates remain reasonable before the summer rush.

Summer. From June to August, Paris basks in the sunshine. The days grow longer, museums stay open late, and the city’s energy levels rise a notch. It’s peak season: the streets buzz with life, restaurants are packed, and there’s something going on at every turn. Tourists from all over the world flock to the capital. A holiday let becomes invaluable for having a private space to relax in after the hustle and bustle of the day. Be prepared for higher rates and the need to book well in advance.

Autumn. From September to November, the city returns to a more peaceful rhythm. The leaves turn golden, the temperatures become cool and pleasant, and the light takes on a special quality. It’s the season for wistful strolls and temporary exhibitions. Holiday rentals offer a spacious base for a relaxing stay, far from the summer crowds. Prices start to fall, and the museums are less crowded.

Winter. From December to February, Paris takes on an intimate atmosphere. The city is decked out in festive decorations, cafés become cosy havens, and the monuments are majestically illuminated. It’s cold, and sometimes grey, but this only adds to the magic of cosy interiors. A holiday let guarantees a cosy haven from which to enjoy shows, shopping and Parisian cuisine. Rates are at their lowest outside public holiday periods.

Ultimately, a holiday let remains the most flexible option: it adapts to your personal schedule, lets you explore Paris at your own pace, and offers the comfort of a real home, whatever the season.

3 activities you simply must try during your holiday in Paris

Paris offers an endless wealth of experiences. From your holiday let, you can reach the capital’s must-see attractions in just a few minutes. These three activities embody the very essence of Paris and deserve a place in your itinerary.

1. A cruise on the Seine

A cruise on the Seine lets you discover Paris from a new perspective. From the riverbanks, Haussmann-style façades, historic bridges and riverside gardens unfold before you. The view changes depending on the time of day: soft morning light, golden reflections in the late afternoon, and magical illuminations in the evening. It’s a relaxing break that offers both a chance to unwind and an immersion in the Parisian landscape. There’s something for children and adults alike.

Address: Bateaux-Mouches, Pont de l’Alma, 75008 Paris.

2. Tour of the Montmartre district and the Sacré-Cœur Basilica

Montmartre charms with its cobbled alleyways, secret stairways and its preserved bohemian atmosphere. The Sacré-Cœur Basilica dominates the neighbourhood and offers a spectacular panoramic view of the capital. Traditional restaurants and cafés dot the small squares. Strolling through this maze of alleyways and terraces is like stepping back in time to discover the Paris of the artists. The art shops and galleries add a touch of magic to the walk.

Address: Place du Tertre, 75018 Paris.

3. A stroll along the Champs-Élysées and a visit to the Arc de Triomphe

The Champs-Élysées epitomises Parisian prestige. This legendary avenue invites you to take a stroll amongst prestigious shops, lively terraces and cinemas. The Arc de Triomphe, an iconic monument, stands at its end. Climbing the internal staircases reveals a terrace offering a breathtaking view of Paris. From there, the avenues radiating out from Place Charles de Gaulle form a spectacular urban pattern. It is a place steeped in history that fascinates all visitors.

Address: Place Charles de Gaulle, 75008 Paris.

Our travellers’ favourite amenities when booking a holiday rental in Paris

When staying in a holiday let in Paris, the comfort of the accommodation is just as important as its location. Between visiting museums, strolling along the Seine and exploring the city’s culinary scene, travellers appreciate coming back to a well-appointed place to relax. Here are the amenities that really make a difference during a stay in Paris.

• Air conditioning: essential during the warmer months to cool down after a day of exploring the city.
• Efficient heating: essential in autumn and winter to enjoy a cosy home during Parisian evenings.
• Parking or access to a garage: in high demand in the city centre, where parking spaces are limited and expensive.
• Fully equipped kitchen: allows you to prepare your own meals and sample fresh local produce without having to rely on restaurants.
• Washing machine: handy for stays of several weeks or for travelling without overpacking your luggage.
• Fast Wi-Fi: essential for staying connected, organising your visits and sharing your memories.
• Balcony or terrace: a great way to soak up the Parisian sunshine, watch the neighbourhood come to life or simply get some fresh air.
• Lift: highly appreciated, particularly by families with children or travellers with bulky luggage.
• High-quality bedding: helps ensure a good night’s sleep after a busy day of sightseeing.
• Functional bathroom: with a spacious shower and a steady supply of hot water, for a pleasant start to the day.

Choosing a holiday rental in Paris also means selecting accommodation suited to your type of trip, the number of people travelling and your budget. Whether it’s a studio flat for a couple on a weekend break or a spacious flat for a family, carefully chosen facilities transform a simple place to stay into a genuine Parisian pied-à-terre.

What is the average price of a holiday let in Paris?

Prices for holiday lets in Paris vary considerably depending on the size and standard of the accommodation. For a small studio or a one-bedroom flat, you can generally expect to pay between 80 and 150 euros per night. A three-room flat suitable for families tends to cost between 150 and 280 euros per night. Larger properties or those offering high-end facilities often exceed 280 euros, particularly in the central arrondissements.

Several factors influence these rates. Location plays a major role: accommodation near the Champs-Élysées or the Left Bank costs significantly more than accommodation on the outskirts. The length of stay also matters. Rental agencies offer discounted rates for weekly or monthly stays, which reduces the daily cost for longer stays. Additional facilities and services (such as a balcony, air conditioning or cleaning included) also affect the price.

The season has a significant impact on rates. The summer months, school holidays and major Parisian events lead to price increases. The winter months and off-peak periods offer more affordable prices. To ensure a successful stay, browse several listings, read previous guests’ reviews carefully and book well in advance. This approach will help you find value for money that suits your budget and needs.