Ways to Beat the Crowds in Paris

As the home of the Eiffel Tower and Leonardo da Vinci’sMona Lisa, it comes as no surprise that Paris is one of Europe’s most-visited cities. With so many visitors, conditions can be tight, but here’s how to find breathing space in France’s capital.
Avoid the Metro at Rush Hour
During rush hour, commuters pack into the Paris Metro like sardines in a can. If you plan on sightseeing between 8am-10am or 5pm-7pm, it’s quicker and more comfortable to explore on foot. Besides, the handsome Haussmann boulevards of Paris lend themselves well to walking.
Plan Ahead
Decide which key sights you are hell-bent on visiting and then book your admission ticket in advance. Attractions such as the Louvre, Eiffel Tower, and Catacombs offer skip-the-line access, which saves you hours of waiting in line.
Think Outside of the Box
If you need a break from the crowds, skip big-name sights and head for lesser-known gems. Try the observation deck at Montparnasse Tower instead of the Eiffel Tower; cruise along the Canal St. Martin or the Marne River instead of the Seine; search for the hidden highlights of the Louvre; or enlist the help of a guide to discover alternativearrondissements.
Escape the City
If you’re sick of being shoulder-to-shoulder with other visitors, escape Paris altogether and head for the French countryside. The capital is within easy reach of Normandy’s beaches, the castle-strewn Loire Valley, and the Champagne region.
Explore at Night
As darkness descends on the City of Lights, Paris’ bistros and bars fill up, and the crowds on the street thin out. Take advantage of the quieter period with some nighttime sightseeing; the Louvre stays opens late and is typically less crowded after dark.
9 Tours and Activities | All Paris Tours

Louvre Museum Skip the Line Access Guided Tour with Venus de Milo & Mona Lisa

Normandy D-Day Beaches & American Cemetery Trip with Lunch from Paris

Paris in One Day : Eiffel Tower with Summit, Louvre Museum and Seine River Cruise

Skip-the-Line: Paris Catacombs Tour with VIP Access to Restricted Areas

Skip the Line: Eiffel Tower Tickets and Small-Group Tour

Off the Beaten Track: Guided Bike Tour of Paris Local Districts and Stories

Paris Small Group or Private Walking Tour: Secret Sites and Hidden Gems

Paris by Night City of Lights Sightseeing Guided Bike Tour

Champagne Tasting Day Trip from Paris and Reims Cathedral Visit
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