Paris, a city renowned for its rich history, iconic landmarks, and vibrant culture, beckons travellers from around the globe. Its enchanting streets, world-class museums, and stunning architecture create an unforgettable experience. Whether you are drawn to the grandeur of the Eiffel Tower, the artistic masterpieces of the Louvre Museum, or the charming ambiance of Montmartre, Paris has something to captivate everyone. The city's significance extends beyond its famous landmarks; its parks, gardens, and Seine River offer tranquil retreats, while its diverse neighbourhoods showcase a unique blend of modern and traditional Parisian life. Planning your trip to Paris can be straightforward. The average direct flight from Nelson to Paris takes approximately 24 hours, but this can vary depending on weather conditions, routing and airline specifics. While no major airlines offer direct flights on this route, you'll likely find flights with Air New Zealand or Qantas, with convenient stopovers, possibly in Auckland or Sydney, before connecting to a European hub such as London or Amsterdam, and from there to Paris. Expect to spend a significant portion of your journey in the air. Stopovers add to the total travel time, so factor this into your schedule, and check with airlines for their flight frequencies. To find the cheapest airfare, book your flights during the shoulder seasons – April to May or September to October – for better flight deals, and book in advance for cost-effective options. Peak travel months are June to August when the city is at its busiest and hotels are fully booked, so booking in advance is essential. Remember, off-peak travel, from December to February, is also a great way to catch the best deals and explore Paris at a slower pace, despite the potentially chilly weather.

Paris enjoys a temperate climate with distinct seasons. Summers (June-August) are warm, with average highs around 25°C and plenty of sunshine. Expect mild temperatures in spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November), ideal for sightseeing. Winters (December-February) are cool, with average highs around 7°C and occasional rain. You may even experience some snowfall. The humidity levels are moderate throughout the year, though they increase during the rainy seasons.

Nelson has two main airports that cater to commercial flights: Nelson Airport and nearby airports.

Nelson Airport

Nelson Airport is a smaller airport that opened in 1960s. It offers a limited number of domestic flights with modern infrastructure. The airport has one terminal and handles a modest number of passengers annually.

Main airlines for this route

• Air New Zealand
• Qantas
• LATAM

Paris is served by three major international airports: Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG), Orly Airport (ORY), and Le Bourget Airport (LBG).

Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG)

CDG, one of Europe's busiest airports, is a modern facility with excellent transport links to central Paris. You can reach the city centre via RER B train, taxis, or car. The RER B train offers a convenient and affordable option. Taxis are readily available outside the terminals, while car rentals are also available for those who prefer to drive themselves.

Orly Airport (ORY)

ORY, a smaller airport than CDG, is also well-connected to central Paris with various options like the Orlyval train, bus services and taxis. The Orlyval is a dedicated train line connecting the airport to the RER B train at Antony Station, making transfer to the city centre straightforward. Bus services provide cost-effective options. Taxis are available, and car hire services are also present.

Le Bourget Airport (LBG)

LBG, primarily used for private and charter flights, has limited public transport links. Pre-booked taxis or private cars are commonly used to reach central Paris.

Paris offers an abundance of attractions, catering to all interests. From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, the city's diversity is truly captivating.

• Eiffel Tower: Ascend this iconic structure for breathtaking panoramic views of the city. Take a lift to the top for a truly memorable experience.
• Louvre Museum: Explore one of the world's largest and most renowned art museums, home to masterpieces such as the Mona Lisa and Venus de Milo.
• Arc de Triomphe: Stand atop this triumphal arch for stunning views down the Champs-Élysées and across Paris. Enjoy the bustling atmosphere.