ParisvsWashington D.C.
Can't decide between Paris and Washington D.C.? Compare these two amazing destinations to find your perfect match.
Paris
The City of Light enchants millions with its timeless elegance, world-renowned museums, iconic landmarks, and unparalleled culinary scene. Paris seamlessly blends historic grandeur with modern sophistication, offering romantic strolls along the Seine and unforgettable cultural experiences.
Known for
Washington D.C.
Washington D.C. is the political heart of America, where iconic monuments and world-class museums line the National Mall. From the Smithsonian to Capitol Hill, the city offers free access to American history and culture.
Known for
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Head-to-Head Comparison
See how these destinations stack up in key categories
Culture & History
Paris offers Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, Notre-Dame Cathedral
Washington D.C. offers National Mall, Smithsonian Museums, Lincoln Memorial
Food & Dining
Paris is famous for its local dining scene
Washington D.C. is famous for its local dining scene
Nightlife
Paris offers a relaxed evening atmosphere
Washington D.C. offers a relaxed evening atmosphere
Best Time to Visit
April to June, September to November
March to May (cherry blossoms)
Weather
Summer: 25°C, Winter: 7°C
Summer: 31°C, Winter: 4°C
Top Attractions in Paris
- 1Eiffel Tower
- 2Louvre Museum
- 3Notre-Dame Cathedral
- 4Champs-Élysées
- 5Montmartre
- 6Palace of Versailles
Top Attractions in Washington D.C.
- 1National Mall
- 2Smithsonian Museums
- 3Lincoln Memorial
- 4Capitol Building
- 5Georgetown
- 6White House
Paris is Popular With
Washington D.C. is Popular With
Hidden Gems
Discover lesser-known attractions in each city
Hidden Gems in Paris
- 1
Covered Passages (Galerie Vivienne, Passage des Panoramas)
19th-century glass-roofed shopping arcades with mosaic floors, antique bookshops, and tea salons frozen in time.
- 2
Parc des Buttes-Chaumont
A dramatic 19th-century park built on former quarries, with waterfalls, a clifftop temple, and suspension bridges.
Hidden Gems in Washington D.C.
- 1
Theodore Roosevelt Island
A 91-acre wilderness preserve and memorial to the 26th president, located in the Potomac River.
- 2
Hillwood Estate, Museum & Gardens
The former estate of cereal heiress Marjorie Merriweather Post, showcasing her unparalleled collection of Russian imperial art and French decorative arts.
Neighborhoods to Explore
Discover the best areas to visit in each city
Top Areas in Paris
Le Marais (3rd & 4th arrondissements)
The Marais survived Haussmann's renovations, preserving its medieval street plan and aristocratic hôtels particuliers.
Saint-Germain-des-Prés (6th arrondissement)
The intellectual heart of Paris where Sartre debated at Café de Flore and publishers still lunch at Brasserie Lipp.
Top Areas in Washington D.C.
Georgetown
The city's oldest neighborhood, known for its Federal-style architecture, cobblestone streets, and upscale vibe.
Capitol Hill
The epicenter of American political power, centered around the iconic U.
Budget Comparison
Compare the cost of traveling in each city
Budget in Paris
Budget in Washington D.C.
Book Activities
Find tours and experiences in both cities
Book Activities in Paris
Skip the line with pre-booked tours and attractions
Book Activities in Washington D.C.
Skip the line with pre-booked tours and attractions
Getting There
Compare transport options to both destinations
Find cheap transport to Paris
Compare prices for trains, buses, and flights to Paris
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Find cheap transport to Washington D.C.
Compare prices for trains, buses, and flights to Washington D.C.
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Our Verdict
Both Paris and Washington D.C. are incredible destinations. Paris excels in art museums and haute cuisine, while Washington D.C. stands out for monuments and Smithsonian.
Best destination for:
families
Washington D.C.
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