You can fly into either Charles de Gaulle or Orly airport. However, it’s not recommended to fly into Beauvais, which is much farther outside the city.

You can get to your hotel via either taxi or metro from both airports.

If you prefer for a car to pick you up, we can help you make arrangements.

Paris is the ultimate walking city. Expect a good amount of walking, including on cobbled streets, during Field Seminars. Participants should be comfortable walking 4 to 5 miles.

To get farther afield, the metro and bus systems are incredibly easy to use, clean, and the way most locals get around.

Taxis and ride share services are available, but can be hard to come by at certain times.

In late April and early May, expect warm, sometimes summery afternoons in the upper 60s to low 70s, with cool mornings that call for a light jacket. Mid-to-late October brings crisp, fall days with highs in the upper 50s to low 60s — an underrated time to be in Paris. Rain is always possible in both spring and fall, so it's worth packing an umbrella, just in case.

France uses the Euro. Euros can easily be obtained at ATMs at the airport upon arrival or at any bank in Paris. Visa and Mastercard are taken almost everywhere; AMEX is less widely accepted.

We recommend traveling with only a small amount of cash for tips or small purchases (a cup of coffee or a bottle of water). Check exchange fees with your credit card provider before traveling.

There are multiple hospitals in Paris, including an American hospital.

Travel insurance is mandatory for participation. Please reach out if you have questions about this or would like recommendations of providers.

You will need to have a passport that is valid until 6 months after your travel ends. We will ask you to provide your passport information along with health & dietary information, an emergency contact, travel insurance, and your arrival and departure information.

Paris is generally safe for travelers, especially in popular tourist areas like the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, and Montmartre. The city has a reliable public transportation system, and most neighborhoods are fine to explore during the day. However, petty crime like pickpocketing—particularly on the metro and around major attractions—is common, so it's important to stay alert and keep valuables secure.

As with all international travel, we recommend that participants enroll in the U.S. State Department’s STEP (Smart Traveler Enrollment Program) to receive important updates and support while abroad.

Travel insurance is required for participation in all Elective programs. Your policy should cover trip cancellation and interruption, personal accident and death, medical expenses, and emergency evacuation. Proof of insurance is due one month before your course start date. Full details are on our Travel Insurance page. If you have any questions or need additional information, don't hesitate to contact us.