A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Paris vs. Washington for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Music

Should you visit Paris or Washington?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Should I visit Paris or Washington? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Paris

Paris is a iconic, bustling, and energetic city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and theater.

Washington

Washington is a monument-filled, international, and diverse city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and theater.

Paris and Washington: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Paris or Washington?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Paris than Washington, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Paris is more popular for its theatre productions, nightlife, music, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Washington is known for its hiking and quaint atmosphere. Paris is more touristy than Washington and is known for its world-renowned cuisine, iconic landmarks, trendsetting fashion, and dynamic markets. It is also home to The Eiffel Tower. Washington is popular for its reputation as the capital of the United States, but it's also known for its many monuments, memorials, and museums.

The Eiffel Tower

How is Paris different from Washington?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Washington and Paris. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Paris or Washington?

Spend time exploring the world-class sights and museums in either Paris or Washington.

Travelers visit Paris from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. One of the most world famous landmarks is the Eiffel Tower. The city is also home to the world renowned Louvre, Notre-Dame, and Palais Garnier Opera House. In addition to the many iconic sights, there are beautiful buildings and hidden gems throughout the city.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Washington are among the most recognizable in the world. The city has world class museums that are often free. The Smithsonian Museums are arguably some of the most impressive museums in the United States. The city also has a large collection of monuments that are dedicated to past presidents or historical events. Many are best experienced at night when the sun sets and the lights come on.

Is Paris or Washington Better for Theater?

Paris is a world-class destination for theatre. Also, Washington is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its theatre productions.

The theater scene in Paris is world-class. There are world class theaters as well as smaller local venues where you can enjoy a show.

Many visitors plan to see a show while visiting Washington. Theater is popular in the city. From major theaters like the Kennedy Center and Ford's Theater, to lesser known smaller venues, there are options for everyone.

Is the Food Better in Paris or Washington? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Paris and Washington.

For foodies, Paris is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. There are countless local restaurants, markets, and patisseries to explore. Make sure you try the steak tartare, pate, and macarons.

Washington has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. This city is among the most diverse in the country, so you can find restaurants from almost any cuisine here. It's worth exploring and stepping out of your comfort zone. There are popular neighborhoods for Ethiopian, Korean, Thai, Japanese, and Chinese food, among many others.

Is Paris or Washington Better for Nightlife?

Paris is a world-class destination for nightlife. Also, Washington is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife and partying.

People head to Paris just to party. Head to Pigalle or the Latin Quarter for some of the city's best nightlife. There are all-night parties, cabarets, and exclusive night clubs that you can experience.

Washington has plenty to do after the sun goes down. Many visitors head straight to the museums and the National Mall, and don't realize what a livable and fun city this is. Some of the best nightlife is found in Dupont Circle, U Street, and even Arlington, VA. The city's young population ensures that there's never a dull moment.

Is Paris or Washington Better for Music?

Paris is a world-class destination for live music. Also, Washington is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its live music scene.

Paris is known as a music capital around the world. Some of the most famous music venues include Le Pop In, La Mécanique Ondulatoire, and Les Disquaires. You'll also find many small bars where you can enjoy live music in a quaint setting.

The music scene helps keep Washington active and fun. Notable live music venues include the 9:30 Club, the Anthem, and Union Stage.

Is Paris or Washington Better for Hiking?

Washington is adequate for hiking. However, Paris is not a hiking destination.

Washington has hiking trails if you want to get outside. Just outside of Washington DC you'll find plenty of places to go hiking. There's also an elaborate bike and walking trail system in the city. To enjoy a bit of nature, head to Teddy Roosevelt Island.

Paris is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Paris or Washington?

Paris is a world-class destination for shopping. Also, Washington is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Paris. Some of the best areas for shopping are Boulevard Haussmann and the Grands Boulevards, the Marais, and Avenue Montaigne and the Champs-Elysées. The city is iconic for its fashion scene and world class shopping venues.

Washington is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Head to Georgetown and Dupont Circle for some of the city's best local shopping. There are name brand chains mixed in with local boutiques. You'll also find plenty of souvenir shops in the more touristy areas if you're looking to pick up some trinkets.

Is Paris or Washington Better for Christmas?

With various activities, both Paris and Washington are world-class places to visit during Christmas.

With so many activities, Paris is a top place to visit during Christmas. The city of lights really proves itself around the holiday season. In addition to checking out the Christmas lights, it's fun to go window shopping or check out one of the city's Christmas markets.

Washington is a fantastic destination at Christmas. With it's beautiful lights and holiday shows, Christmas is beautiful in the capital of the United States.

Is Paris or Washington Better for Families?

Paris is a world-class destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Washington is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

Paris is one of the most popular family destinations. Check out Jardin du Luxembourg, or one of the city's many playgrounds. Also grab a treat at one of the city's many patisseries. And of course, there's Disneyland Paris.

Washington is a very kid-friendly city. It is a fun and educational destination where kids can explore world class museums and try unique foods from all around the world. The city has nationally recognized landmarks, monuments, and memorials and it's also home to some of the best (free) museums in the United States including the world class Smithsonian Institutions. Many schools visit Washington DC as a field trip, particularly during the Spring months, so you'll kids groups in colorful t-shirts running around the National Mall.

Is Paris or Washington Better for Couples?

Paris is a world-class destination for romance. Also, Washington is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.

For those traveling as a couple, Paris has plenty to offer. A city filled with romance, you really can't find a more ideal destination for a European honeymoon or a couple's getaway.

Washington is a very popular place to visit for couples. The city lights up at night, so couples will enjoy wandering by the monuments in the evening or taking in a dinner and show. During the Spring months you'll find couples wandering through the Cherry Blossoms or along the waterfront.

Is Paris or Washington Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Paris is a world-class destination for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Washington is not a good destination for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Paris. It's a big city, so it's easy to get lost in the chaos, but there are many hostels and other backpacker hangouts around town.

Washington is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. While it is an international travel destination, the city often isn't at the top of most backpacker's lists. There are some affordable accommodation options available though if you know where to look.

Is Paris or Washington Better for Students?

For students, both Paris and Washington are world-class places to visit.

Many students frequent Paris. The city is one of the most popular destinations for international and study abroad students.

Students come from all over the world to visit Washington. International students come from around the world to study, learn, intern, and work in the capital of the United States. There are many internships available through the federal government as well as NGOs and nonprofits.

Is Paris or Washington Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Paris and Washington both offer world-class public transit to get you around.

The thorough and effecient public transit system of Paris can take you anywhere. The city's metro system is very comprehensive. There's also a bus system that you can use to get around.

Washington has a great public transit system. The metro system and the bus system are reliable and efficient ways to explore the city.

Is Paris or Washington a more walkable city?

Washington is terrific for its walkability. Also, Paris is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its high level of walkability.

Washington is a very easy city to get around on foot. Many neighborhoods around the city are easy to explore on foot. Most tourists spend a lot of time in the Mall area, which is very pedestrian friendly.

Paris is a very walkable city. Some streets can feel a bit overwhelming, but there are many parts of the city that are easily explored on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Paris Worth Visiting? and Is Washington Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Washington or Paris?

How long in Paris or Washington?

Both Paris and Washington have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Paris has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Paris than Washington. However, 3-7 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Paris than Washington. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Paris, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Paris than Washington. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Paris that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Paris than Washington if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Paris.

One day in Paris or Washington?

When visiting Paris, people usually allow for lots of time. Anyone can find something fun to do here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Washington, many people enjoy the nightlife and live music that this international big city offers. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Paris or Washington?

When visiting Paris, people usually allow for lots of time. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Washington. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Paris or Washington?

Paris, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Washington is a fun place to experience. In Washington, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this big city destination offers. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Paris or Washington?

Paris is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this city makes for a great vacation. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

In Washington, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this monument-filled big city offers. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Historical Tours in France, The Best 10-Day Tours in France, The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Paris and Washington, we can see that Paris is more expensive. And not only is Washington much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Paris is in Europe and Washington is in North America, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Washington would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Washington and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Paris would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Paris than you might in Washington.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Paris Expensive? and Is Washington Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Paris or Washington?

Paris has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Washington. When comparing the sizes of Paris and Washington, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Paris or Washington?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Paris or Washington in the Summer?

Both Washington and Paris are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Paris this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Washington for the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

Paris is cooler than Washington in the summer. The daily temperature in Paris averages around 20°C (68°F) in July, and Washington fluctuates around 79°F (26°C).

It's quite sunny in Washington. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Paris. Paris usually receives less sunshine than Washington during summer. Paris gets 241 hours of sunny skies, while Washington receives 278 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Paris usually receives less rain than Washington. Paris gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Washington receives 3.5 inches (88 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Paris or Washington in the Autumn?

Both Washington and Paris during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Paris for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Washington in the autumn for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Paris is cooler than Washington. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Paris in October average around 13°C (56°F), and Washington averages at about 60°F (15°C).

In the autumn, Paris often gets less sunshine than Washington. Paris gets 127 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Washington receives 197 hours of full sun.

Paris usually gets less rain in October than Washington. Paris gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Washington receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Paris or Washington in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Paris and Washington. Many visitors come to Paris in the winter for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Washington for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine during these months.

Washington can be very cold during winter. Paris can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Paris is generally much warmer than Washington. Daily temperatures in Paris average around 5°C (40°F), and Washington fluctuates around 35°F (1°C).

Paris usually receives less sunshine than Washington during winter. Paris gets 62 hours of sunny skies, while Washington receives 139 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Paris usually receives less rain than Washington. Paris gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Washington receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Paris or Washington in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Paris as well as Washington. Most visitors come to Paris for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Washington because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

Paris is cooler than Washington in the spring. The daily temperature in Paris averages around 11°C (52°F) in April, and Washington fluctuates around 56°F (14°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Washington. In the spring, Paris often gets less sunshine than Washington. Paris gets 172 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Washington receives 228 hours of full sun.

Paris usually gets less rain in April than Washington. Paris gets 50 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Washington receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Washington and Paris