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Paris Travel Tips: 50 Important Things To Know Before Going To Paris

Are you planning a trip to the French capital? This post will give you all the useful Paris travel tips to make your trip fun and much easier.

Oh, Paris! The thought of walking through its beautiful streets , visiting its famous landmarks one after the other, tasting all its delicious foods , and finally climbing the Eiffel Tower , a trip to Paris is a dream come true!

If you’re planning a trip to Paris, it must be extremely exciting knowing that you’ll be in one of the most beautiful cities in the world.

Paris travel tips

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However, as you prepare for your visit, whether you’re going to Paris for the first time or have been there countless times, there are a number of Paris travel tips that will help you have a fun, safe, and seamless trip.

As someone who lives in the city, I’ve experienced Paris countless times and have found myself in various circumstances that have given me the immense experience to share practical tips for visiting Paris.

So, before you go, make sure that you read these Paris travel tips.

Before You Go, Here’s How to Plan Your Visit To Paris: Practical Quick Tips

WHERE TO STAY Best Eiffel Tower Views:  Hôtel Le Walt  (9.0) Luxury stay:  Pullman Paris Tour Eiffel  (8.2) Mid-range stay:  Hôtel Eiffel  (8.7) Budget Stay:  People – Paris Bercy  (8.9) Apartment Rental:  Résidence Charles Floquet  (9.1)  

BEST GUIDED TOURS Louvre Museum guided tour : (4.5/5) Seine River Dinner Cruise : (4.7/5) Montmartre Walking Tour : (4.8/5) Le Marais Walking Food Tour : (4.5/5) Versailles Guided Tour : (4.8/5) Eiffel Tower Guided Tour : (4.4/5) 

  • Considering travel insurance for your trip? World Nomads offers coverage for more than 150 adventure activities as well as emergency medical, lost luggage, trip cancellation, and more.
  • Prepare your trip extensively with this Paris Travel guidebook .
  • Don’t forget a universal travel adapter , a travel neck pouch , and comfortable walking shoes .
  • Consider getting either the museum pass or the Paris city pass if you plan to visit many attractions. The city pass comes with free transportation and access to the hop-on-hop-off bus. You can read my Paris museum pass review to see if it’s right for you.
  • Book this private transfer from CDG airport to Paris to avoid the hustle of figuring out how to get to Paris.

Paris Travel Tips: Things To Know Before Visiting Paris

Whether it’s choosing the right time to visit, tips on navigating public transportation, how to dress in Paris, tips to fully get the most when visiting attractions, or mistakes to avoid, here are the best Paris tips for travelers.

For easy navigation, I’ll be categorizing this article into; general travel tips for Paris, money tips for visiting Paris, transportation travel tips for Paris, safety tips for traveling to Paris, and food & restaurant tips for Paris travelers. Now, let’s dive in.

General travel tips for Paris

1. choose the time to visit paris that is best for you.

cherry blossom at champs de mars

The first thing to consider when planning a trip to Paris is to choose the best time to visit that works for you. There is no one answer that fits all as we all have different things going on in our lives.

But if you keep other factors constant and base your decision on what’s happening in Paris, or the weather, here is a brief to help you decide.

Paris in Spring is one of the best times to visit Paris. The temperatures are warm, the flowers are blooming and there are not huge crowds yet.

On the other hand, Paris in summer has the most pleasant weather (if there is no heat wave), and the days are long to enjoy the city to the max, however, it sees the biggest crowds of tourists and airplane fares, attractions, and hotels are at their highest.

Avenue de New York is one of the cute Paris streets

For an in-between, opt to visit Paris in the fall . The weather is chilly, the streets are covered in fall colors, the crowds are reduced, especially towards the beginning of winter, and the general cost of travel starts to fall.

If you don’t want to deal with huge crowds, you can opt to visit Paris in winter . During this time, the crowds disappear, (though they creep back in during the Christmas season ), and the cost of flights and accommodation is lower, but you’ll have to brave the cold temperatures and short days.

I hope the breakdown of the season helps you choose but if personally I had to choose, I would say towards the end of spring and the beginning of fall are the best times to visit Paris.

The temperatures are still pretty warm, the crowds are not that much and the cost is not that high too.

2. Don’t Skimp on Travel Insurance

One of the best tips for traveling to Paris is not to forego travel Insurance. In fact, before traveling anywhere, whether it’s Paris or not, make sure that you have travel insurance.

So many things can happen on the road! You could lose your valuable travel accessories, you may need expensive urgent care, and if you don’t have travel insurance, it will get expensive pretty quickly yet insurance could have covered everything if you had spent just a few bucks on it.

Though there are countless travel insurance companies out there, the one I trust and recommend is World Nomads Travel insurance . They operate in over 130 countries, so it’s easy to request a quote and the claim process is not a rat race.

However, if you’re a digital nomad or a long-term traveler, you can also check out Safety Wings Travel insurance as they offer great deals for long-term travelers.

3. Don’t visit only the famous landmarks

Exploring the covered passages of Paris is one of the best nontouristy things to do in Paris

It’s obvious the first places you’ll have on your Paris travel bucket list are the famous attractions like the Louvre Museum, the Eiffel Tower, the Sacre Coeur, the Arc de Triomphe, the Orsay Museum, and others.

Instead of just visiting only those ones, venture into other non-touristy things to do in Paris and go off the beaten path. This way, you’ll be able to explore Paris beyond what is in the guidebooks .

Some of the hidden gems of Paris worth checking out include parks like Parc Manceau, the covered passages of Paris , Les Arènes de Lutèce, the windmills in Montmartre , Paris Sewer Museum, Paris pet cemetery, and many others.

4. Buy skip-the-line tickets in advance to avoid wasting time in queues

The Louvre neighborhood is one of the best neighborhoods to stay in Paris.

One of the most useful tips when visiting Paris is to buy skip-the-line entry tickets to attractions in advance.

Paris is one of the most visited cities in Europe , so you can expect long queues at its popular attractions. At places like the Louvre, Eiffel Tower, or even Arc de Triomphe, you can easily spend 2-3 hours just in lines to access them.

While this may not be a big issue if you have a long time in the city, but if you’re visiting Paris for a weekend or even 1 day , you’ll lose so much time in queues instead of visiting other attractions.

The best way to avoid this is by purchasing skip-the-line tickets online. Some of the skip-the-line tickets you can buy in advance for popular attractions include;

  • This Eiffel Tower skip-the-line ticket to the summit
  • The Louvre museum skip-the-line ticket with an audio guide
  • The Orsay museum skip-the-line ticket
  • This Arc de Triomphe skip-the-line ticket
  • Versailles Palace skip-the-line entry ticket to the palace and gardens
  • And many others.

You can also check out my complete list of skip-the-line entry tickets to popular landmarks all in one place.

Pro tip* Instead of buying each individual ticket, you can choose to buy this Paris pass that will give you access to over 80 attractions for free while also skipping the long lines. Alternatively, if you intend to visit a number of museums, you’re better off buying this Paris museum pass . You can get more details about the museum pass by reading my detailed Paris museum pass review here .

Montmartre in the 19th district is one of the best areas to stay in Paris.

5. Choose your accommodation in the central districts of Paris

If you have a few days in Paris, the last thing you want to do is waste time on long commutes by staying outside Paris or even in arrondissements that are a bit far from everything.

Instead of staying in the 20th district which is a bit far from the major attractions, choose to stay in either the 7th, 8th, or even the 1st. The bigger the number, the further away it is from central Paris.

You can read my post about where to stay in Paris according to arrondissements to get a general idea of the best area to stay in while in Paris.

6. Book your Hotel/Apartment rental way in advance

Hotel Audran is one of the best Montmartre hotels.

Courtesy of Hotel Audran / Booking.com

While still on the topic of booking in advance, another useful Paris travel tip is to book your accommodation in advance, especially in the summer since they book out fast.

This may not happen at all hotels/apartments but the one that suits your particular needs may be booked out if you don’t book in advance.

To help you choose the perfect hotel, I’ve written numerous articles about accommodation. You can click on the links below to go to a particular accommodation post that suits your need.

  • Best Hotels with Eiffel Tower views
  • Coolest Airbnbs and Apartment rentals with Eiffel Tower views
  • Best Paris Hotels with Swimming Pools
  • Top Hotels in Montmartre
  • Budget-friendly Apartment rentals in Paris
  • Best Hotels Near the Louvre museum
  • Luxury Apartment vacation rentals in Paris

Alternatively, you can book my expert-selected hotels below if going through the above articles seems like a lot of work.

This is the best hotel with a view of the Eiffel Tower, this is the hotel I recommend for a luxury stay, this one for mid-range travelers, and this one for budget travelers. If you prefer an apartment rental, you’ll love everything about this aparthotel .

7. Take advantage of free museums

Petit palais is one of the best free museums in Paris.

If you’re traveling on a budget or just want to save money for something else, one of the best tips for traveling in Paris is to take advantage of free museums.

There are so many free museums in Paris that are worth visiting including; Petit Palais, Musée Carnavalet, Maison De Victor Hugo, Musée De La Vie Romantique, and many others.

The best part is that since most people flock to the famous Paris museums , these ones are usually less crowded, yet interesting to visit and above all free.

8. Don’t just stick to Paris! explore the nearby cities Too

Mont St Michel at sunset

Paris is incredibly beautiful — there is no denying that! However, instead of just visiting the city and leaving the country, you should also explore nearby cities and towns.

You can plan a weekend getaway from Paris or even a day trip to places like Strasbourg, Monet’s garden, Provins, Mont Saint Michel , Chantilly, or any of these cute cities near Paris .

This will help you escape the non-stop life of Paris for a while as you enjoy the beauty of other parts of France.

9. Don’t try to see everything in a short amount of time

It’s not uncommon to want to fit in as many activities as you can in a short amount of time.

But the truth is, it’s quite impossible to see everything in one visit and quite frankly, I’ve not seen everything in Paris myself. Sometimes I find myself discovering new gems while randomly walking.

Trying to see everything will just create travel burnout since you’ll be running from one attraction to another instead of trying to immerse yourself and fully enjoy the experience.

Moulin Rouge is one of the best places to take pictures in Paris

10. Try to dress like Parisians

When it comes to what to wear in Paris, strive to dress like the locals! And how do locals dress, you may ask?

Parisians like to keep things chic and they always look like they put thought into what they’re wearing without going overboard. Not the runway kind of thing, but they always look well put together.

It’s hard to find Parisians wearing sports clothes to walk on the streets (except if they’re actively working out), or even sweatpants.

You can check out my article on what not to wear in Paris to know exactly what to leave home if you want to look like a Parisian.

11. Pack the right clothes for Each season

Before leaving the subject of clothes, another Paris travel tip to note is to pack clothes for the right season.

I have a couple of articles to help you with this depending on the season you’re visiting.

For the months of March to May, here is what to wear in Paris in springtime , what to wear in Paris in the summer if you’re traveling between June to August, what to wear in Paris in the fall if you’re visiting between August to November, and finally what to wear in Paris in the winter if your trip falls between December to February.

With those articles, you’ll know exactly the right clothes to pack for each season!

12. Go to vantage points to take in the views of the city

Stunning view from Galeries Lafayette

Paris is beautiful when seen from below but it gets even more magical from above. As you explore the city, get some time to take in the stunning views of Paris from various vantage points.

Some of the places to get stunning views of Paris include the top of the Eiffel Tower, Sacre Coeur, Ard de Triomphe, Butte Chaumont, Montparnasse Tower, Galeries Lafayette, and more. You can also enjoy the views of the Iron lady from these Eiffel Tower view spots .

13. Learning a little French goes a long way

french language facts

You may hear some people say that English is widely spoken in Paris but I am here to tell you that that’s not true.

In fact, it’s more surprising to find a person who speaks English than one who doesn’t. Of course, people in the tourism industry will speak English but don’t be surprised to go to a store and no one speaks English.

This goes to say that, as you plan to visit Paris, you can learn a few basic French words to help you get around. It doesn’t have to be much but it’s always nice to try.

Some of the French words you can learn include;

  • Bonjour = Hello
  • Au revoir = Goodbye
  • s’il vous plaît = Please
  • Merci = Thank you
  • De rien = you’re welcome
  • Pardon = Pardon me
  • Monsieur = Sir
  • Madame = miss
  • Une carafe d’eau, s’il Vous plaît = tap water, please
  • l’addition s’il Vous plaît = The check/bill, please
  • A emporter s’il vous plaît = Take away, please
  • Je ne parle pas Français, désolé = sorry, I don’t speak English
  • Parlez-vous anglais? = Do you speak English?
  • Ou est…., s’il vous plaît? = Where is…., please?

14. Paris is not just romance and glamour

Celebrating Valentine’s Day is one of the fun things to do in Paris in february

Paris is no doubt one of the most romantic places in the world. In fact, one of its nicknames is the city of love .

Yes, there are so many romantic things to do in Paris and it’s probably the number one proposal destination for couples.

But as romantic and charming as it is, it’s not just romance! It has an ugly side to it. Yes, pickpockets will try to take your stuff, scammers will try to scam you, you’ll see a few homeless people and beggars on the stress, and you be welcomed by the smell of Piss in some metro stations.

I am telling you this so that when you come, you don’t get struck by the Paris Syndrome many tourists face, especially those from Japan.

15. Check the opening hours for attractions before you visit

Another one of my favorite Paris travel tips is to check the opening hours of attractions before you visit.

Don’t just assume that all places are open at the same time or stay closed on the same days! Also, opening hours can change due to the season, so be sure to confirm before you go.

Facts about the Arc de Triomphe.

16. Create an itinerary but be open to adjusting it

Since Paris has a lot of things to see and do, the best way to see a number of them is by creating a realistic itinerary.

However, try not to follow it religiously. Leave some time in between to do spontaneous activities.

If a visit to one place leads you to another that was not on your itinerary but you’re interested in seeing it, you can just adjust your itinerary because the best experiences come unplanned — at least in some cases.

17. Most Museums in Paris close on Monday, not Sunday

It’s easy to assume that museums would be closed on Sundays but not in Paris. Most big (actually even the small ones) close on Mondays.

In fact, some restaurants too and shops close on Monday instead of Sunday. This is to make sure that people who work Monday – Friday can access certain services on Sunday.

This in turn means that people who worked on Sunday close on Monday. So, don’t just assume, check if the museum is open before your visit.

Exploring the Parisian Museums without the crowds is one of the best things to do in winter in Paris.

18. Explore Paris on Foot

Paris is a city best explored on foot. Most of the city’s major landmarks are not far from each other and you discover much more when you walk instead of taking the metro all the time.

For example, you could easily walk from the Opera area to Montmartre without even realizing it. While you can take the metro to reach there, you can easily walk as there are so many hidden gems to uncover along the way.

In fact, you’ll find most travelers say they walked much more in Paris than in other major European cities. This is usually common for some tourists from the US where walking is not as much as in Europe.

19. Carry Comfortable Walking shoes to Paris

If you’re a regular reader of this blog, you know that this is one thing I say all the time. Paris’s streets are covered in cobblestones and it will be hard to walk in high heels.

And if you’re going to explore the city on foot as mentioned above, you’ll want to leave your stilettoes and wedges at home and opt for comfortable walking shoes like sneakers or boots.

cropped-metro-cherry-blossom.jpg

20. Try exploring Paris on a bike

Another way to explore Paris is to try biking. Since the world p*ndemic, Paris has put more bike lanes in place to ensure that it becomes more bike-friendly.

It’s easy to rent a bike in Paris as there are many stations all over the city where you can rent a Velib bike from without even talking to anyone.

When you’re done biking, you don’t have to take it back to where you picked it from, but rather at any other bike station you find along the way.

You can go biking along the Seine (nothing more romantic than that), along Canal Saint-Martin, and more.

21. Never forget to say bonjour when you enter a shop

While this may not be the norm back in your country, in Paris, it’s considered rude to not say Bonjour when you enter a shop.

In fact, even when you’re leaving the shop, saying goodbye is considered good manners. You can say au revoir which means “goodbye” or bonne journée for “have a good day”.

22. Carry your student id

In Paris, students are usually offered a discounted rate at major attractions, so if you’re a student, carry your valid student ID to take advantage of the reduced rates.

window shopping at Champs-Élysées is one of the fun things to do in Paris

23. Refrain from shopping at every shop you see

Paris is a shoppers’ haven and if you’re a shopaholic, you may want to pop into every store you see to buy something.

The truth is that most shops in Paris are appealing and it’s like every single one is calling your name.

If you can resist the temptations, window shopping can do the trick, otherwise, you might just spend all your money buying luxury French brands in Paris.

24. Do not speak too loud

Another way to avoid looking like a tourist (and avoid making yourself a target by scammers and pickpockets) is by not speaking too loud.

French people in general don’t speak loud in public and always give an eye to tourists who speak like they’re addressing the entire room. Just keep the voice lower, at least until you leave Paris.

Parc Monceau is one of the best parks in Paris.

25. Explore Some of the beautiful parks in Paris

Beyond the famous landmarks, Paris is endowed with beautiful parks and gardens worth exploring. These green patches offer an escape into nature to a rather bustling city.

Whether it’s taking a leisurely walk to enjoy the cherry blossoms (if you visit in spring) or wanting to experience a Parisian picnic , there are a number of parks to choose from.

Some of the best Parisian parks not to miss include; Jardin des Plantes, Luxembourg gardens, Butte Chaumont, Parc Monceau, Tuileries gardens, Trocadero gardens, and more.

26. Plan alternative activities to do in case it rains

Regardless of the time of the year you visit whether it’s summer or winter, it’s likely to rain in Paris. But a rainy day doesn’t mean that you should just stay in your hotel room doing nothing.

There is plenty of things to do in Paris on a rainy day that you can choose from so that you don’t waste a day of sightseeing.

Plan to do activities like visiting museums or exploring the covered passages of Paris on the day it rains.

Rainy day in Paris

27. Be prepared for the rain

In the same way, don’t just plan out activities for a rainy day but also plan outfits and accessories for such days.

Make sure that you carry a windproof travel umbrella like this and/or this lightweight waterproof rain jacket .

28. Wake up early at least once to catch a sunrise

Imagine the sun rising above the Eiffel tower! Magical, right? If you’re in Paris for a few days, one thing you shouldn’t miss out on is taking in the beauty of the city with the first lights of the day.

You can go to any of these Paris sunrise spots and I guarantee you that compromising your sleep early in the morning will be so worth it.

Seine river sunrise in fall

29. Or stay for the sunset

If you’re not a morning person or you just prefer sunsets, ending your day with a beautiful sunset in Paris will be a memorable one.

You can go to places like Montparnasse Tower, Sacre Coeur, or the Seine cruise to watch a magical sunset.

30. Beware That Most Things close on Sunday

Like most cities, you’ll find Paris calm and quiet on Sundays. Most shops, bakeries, and even some restaurants stay closed on Sunday.

Though you’ll be able to visit some museums since they close on Monday as mentioned above, you may need to plan how to spend your Sunday well in Paris.

Tips for Paris Travel: Food & Restaurants

31. take a food tour while in paris.

Fun facts about French food

Another way to fully immerse yourself in French culture is by taking a food tour. You’ll be able to not only learn more about French food but also taste it. Below are the 3 food tours I recommend in Paris.

  • Le Marais Walking Food Tour: This food-guided tour will take you through the vibrant neighborhood of Le Marais. You’ll taste some wine and cheese, some pastries, and any other French delicacies that may be in during that season.
  • Montmartre Cheese, Wine, and Pastry Tour: If you’d rather discover the neighborhood of Montmartre, then this is the best food tour for you. Just like the above, you’ll taste some cheese, wine, pastries, and Charcuterie. The tour is fun and informative and the guides are very friendly.
  • Saint-Germain-des-Prés Pastry and Chocolate Walking Tour: If you have a sweet tooth, then this guided pastry tour is what I recommend. You’ll taste different types of chocolates, bread, and other French pastries during your tour while admiring all the beautiful bakeries in the Saint-Germain-des-Prés neighborhood.

32. Try as much French food as you can

Croque Monsieur is one of the famous foods in Paris

One of the best ways to immerse yourself in the culture of the place you’re visiting is to try their local food and Paris is no different.

French cuisine is one of the best cuisines in the world and it would be a huge mistake not to try as much as you can.

Some of the French foods you can try include; Raclette (if you visit in the colder months), Crêpes, Croque Monsieur & Croque Madame, or Jambon-Beurre but don’t be afraid to try traditional French foods too like Escagorts, Frog Legs, or Couilles De Mouton (Mutton Testicles).

33. Don’t eat near famous attractions unless you have the budget for it

Unless you have the budget for it, I would refrain from eating at restaurants near popular places.

They’re usually expensive yet just a few minutes away you could get the same exact things (or even better) for less.

L'oiseau Blanc is one of the best restaurants in Paris with a view

34. Make reservations at restaurants ahead of time

Just like at attractions, you’ll need to make reservations at restaurants, especially fancy ones like these restaurants with a view of the Eiffel Tower .

While you can just arrive at smaller cafes and bistros, some restaurants require making a reservation. You can’t just walk in and expect to be seated.

For some, you can make a reservation that very day while others require making a reservation up to 3 months in advance as they book out fast.

One example is Jules Verne , a restaurant at the Eiffel Tower. It’s almost impossible to find availability if you book 1 week or 2 in advance, even a month would be late. Try 2 or 3 months in advance to reserve a table.

So, before you go to Paris, make sure you make reservations if you plan to eat at such restaurants.

35. There is no need to tip At Parisian Restaurants (though appreciated)

While tipping is a big deal in most countries, it’s not the case in Paris. In Paris, the service fee is usually included in the overall price of the meal at restaurants, so don’t feel compelled to tip.

On the other hand, if the service you received was phenomenal and you want to tip your server, you can ask them to include an amount you want to tip to your bill but the best option is to leave a cash tip.

Couple driking coffee at one of the best Coffee shops in Paris

36. Drink tap water instead of buying bottled one

Water in Paris is safe to drink! Locals drink it and you too can. So, instead of wasting money on bottled water, you can just drink tap water from your hotel room.

In fact, even if you’re out exploring, you can still access tap water from the many water fountains (known as Wallace fountains) dotted around the city. Some even have sparkling water if that’s what you prefer.

These fountains are hard to miss as some are historically built but for ease of access, you can check this page for the exact locations in each arrondissement.

Just make sure to carry a reusable travel water bottle like this so that you refill it every time it runs dry.

This won’t only save you money but it’s also great for the environment as it reduces plastic usage.

37. Request for Tap Water at Restaurants too

While still on the topic of water, ask for tap water at restaurants. Most Parisian cafes and restaurants have made it a habit to always put a bottle of tap water on every table.

However, if the restaurant you go to doesn’t do it automatically, feel free to ask for tap water and it will be offered to you for free.

Travel tips for Paris Transporation

38. the metro is the best way to get around.

Montmartre Metro

Paris’s metro system is very well connected and it’s easy to get around no matter where you are. It’s easy to use, you won’t be stuck in traffic, and it’s also the cheapest form of transportation in Paris.

The other options are buses, trams, taxis, or Uber. The downside with buses is getting stuck in traffic and the same applies to taxis/Uber except that the latter is a bit more expensive compared to buses or the metro and the train.

39. Renting A Car In Paris Is A Bad Idea

One of the things to know before traveling to Paris is that renting a car is a very bad idea.

As I mentioned above, public transportation in the city is very effective and cheap compared to hiring a car.

Renting a car will mean being stuck in traffic most time and you’ll have to deal with the crazy Parisian drivers, plus, it’s very expensive. So, save yourself from that pain but choosing not to hire a car. It’s really not needed!

40. Buy A Carnet Of Metro Tickets Instead Of One Every Time

If you plan to ride the metro a number of times (this is inevitable if you’re spending more than 3 days in the city), you’ll be better off buying a carnet of metro tickets.

A carnet is a bundle of 10 tickets and it’s cheaper than buying 10 individual tickets. It will also save you time instead of going to a ticket machine every time you need a new ticket.

Paris metro sign

41. Don’t Throw Away Your Metro/Train Ticket Just Yet

While still on the topic of tickets, one of the important Paris tips and tricks is to not trash your metro ticket before you fully exit the station at the end of your trip.

If the ticket control team finds you without a ticket, chances are high that you’ll be fined — which is 10 times more than the ticket price.

Plus, the ticket will help you exit the metro/train station. Without it, you may need to buy another one just to exit.

42. Beware of the metro working hours before going out to party late at night

Paris nightlife is fun and vibrant and you should enjoy it at least once. But as you plan to go out, be mindful of the metro working hours.

Is there a metro running on the line you take to go to your hotel (check if there are ongoing strikes)?

What time do they stop working on the day you want to go out? Check all this ahead and plan when to go back if you want to use the metro. Check the Ratp website to stay updated on the metro working hours.

Paris metro on railline

43. You can also download the Bonjour RATP app

Besides just checking the website, you can download the Ratp app to stay updated on all the public transportation in Paris.

With the Bonjour RATP app , you’ll know when a metro line is closed, where to take the metro from, find the closest bus line, Velib stations, RER, the night bus, and more.

Think of it as a one-stop shop for all public transportation around Paris.

44. Avoid taking the metro during rush hours (if possible)

The metro can be something during rush hour, usually between 8 AM to 9 AM and then from  6 PM to 7:30 PM. They’re heavily packed and everyone seems to be in a rush for some reason.

As a tourist, it may not be the best moment to take the metro, especially if you can avoid it.

To give you a rough picture, you may not get where to seat, people will be pushing you (it will be person to person), and on some lines, you may not even be able to get onto the metro because it’s just too packed.

So, if you can avoid taking the metro during rush hours, do it.

Eiffel Tower view with Metro sign

45. Make city mapper your friend

One of the best apps to use in Paris is city mapper. I use it all the time for literally anything.

Besides the usual direction which I find more accurate than google maps sometimes, they give metro and train live updates.

You just type in where you want to go and it will show you the best metro/train to take, where to stop, which exist to take, and the best car on the metro/train to sit in.

Though google maps can do some of this, I find Citymapper much more accurate every time!

Money Tips for Traveling in Paris

46. you don’t have to spend a lot in paris.

Paris is ranked as one of the most expensive cities to visit! And while that is true, it doesn’t mean that people traveling on a budget can’t make it work at all.

There are so many free things to do in Paris that will save a couple of bucks, like visiting free museums as we talked about earlier.

You can also sign up for free walking tours and instead of eating out every day, make your own meals if you booked an apartment rental with a kitchen.

Opera is one of the best areas of Paris.

47. Cards a widely accepted but some places have a minimum amount they accept

One of the other Paris tourist tips you should know is that cards are widely accepted in most places. However, some places, usually small bars, bakeries, and some shops require a minimum amount to be able to pay by card.

It can be anywhere from a minimum spend of 3€ to 6€. For anything below that, you’d be required to pay by cash.

Actually, at times you’ll come across places that don’t accept cards at all. So, as you visit Paris, try to always carry some cash with you however little it may be.

48. Always carry a few coins for public toilets

Paris is one of those cities where you have to pay to access public toilets, so carry a few coins, (usually 1 Euro) for La Dame Pipi or the lady seated near the toilet collecting money.

However, in some public toilets, credit/debit cards work, so you can use the no-contact payment with ease.

Safety Travel Tips in Paris

49. look out for paris travel scams.

Paris travell tips

Unfortunately, scams are very rampant in Paris, especially in the areas near the Eiffel Tower and other crowded places.

As you explore, be vigilant and aware of your surroundings. Some of the scams to look out for include;

Someone coming to you with some written documents  and asking you to sign and support their cause.

Don’t fall for this because as soon as you sign, they’ll demand money aggressively and since you may want to get out of that uncomfortable situation pretty soon, you will be tempted to just give them money and leave.

If anyone (usually women) comes to you with stuff like this, just say No, thanks, and move on.

Another scam is the friendship bracelet scam . This one usually happens around Sacre Coeur with someone coming towards you in a friendly way with a bracelet. They’ll try to put it on your wrist and then force you to pay for you. Just move away from anyone trying to be friendly with a bracelet.

50. Be Aware Of Pickpockets

Unfortunately, this is one of the vices that seem to never go away in Paris. Pickpockets are usually in crowded places, in the metro and also the subway.

The only way to avoid them is to carry your bag in the front and be mindful of your surroundings all the time.

Pickpockets also usually target tourists as tourists are less opposed to following up on the crime, so try not to look like a tourist, especially in sketchy places.

Final Thoughts on the Best Paris Travel Tips

It’s easy to miss or overlook some things when going to the French capital, but with these tips for traveling to Paris, I hope you’ll have a great time and know exactly what and what not to do in Paris .

Whether it’s avoiding scams, deciding when to go, or even how to navigate the city, these travel tips for Paris will come in handy.

NEVER TRAVEL TO PARIS WITHOUT TRAVEL INSURANCE One of the biggest mistakes you’ll ever make when planning a trip to Paris is to forego Travel Insurance ! You might think that it’s expensive, but when you think of how much it will save you when you lose your valuables or even get sick, then you’ll know that it’s NOT that expensive! Unfortunately, things can and do go wrong when you travel. World Nomads offers coverage for more than 150 activities as well as emergency medical, lost luggage, trip cancellation, and more. If you’re considering travel insurance for your trip, check out World Nomads .

Check out these posts to help you plan your trip to Paris

  • Fun things to do in Paris on a Rainy day
  • Famous Paintings in Paris
  • Where to Find the Best Macarons in Paris
  • Famous Paintings at the Louvre Museum
  • Best Covered Passages of Paris
  • Most beautiful neighborhoods of Paris
  • Fun free things to do in Paris
  • Famous Churches to Visit in Paris
  • Best Museums in Paris
  • Tips for Visiting the Eiffel Tower
  • How to spend One day In Paris

Was this post on how to travel in Paris helpful? Then please consider sharing it with others.

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Esther is the face and voice behind Dreams in Paris! She has always been obsessed with Paris even before she moved there. She has lived in Paris for a couple of years, and that obsession has not changed! That love for Paris, plus her passion for writing led to the birth of Dreams in Paris! She now shares all the practical tips and guides she’s picked along the way to help you plan a memorable trip to the city of love! You can learn more about her here !

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12 essential travel tips for your next trip to Paris

A couple relaxing at Jardin du Luxembourg

It can feel overwhelming to plan your first trip to Paris. The French capital is a maze of arrondissements filled with world-famous landmarks and museums. Luckily for you, we’ve put together a selection of Paris travel tips for first-time visitors. This travel guide will help you plan your trip, save some money, and make the best of your visit to Paris .

1. Choose the right time to visit Paris

People at a Christmas market in Paris

Paris is alive with activities in June, July, and August. These summer months promise long days of sunshine with temperatures ranging from 59 to 77 degrees Fahrenheit. However, expect peak prices for accommodation during this high season.

For better deals and fewer crowds, visit during the shoulder season in spring (April and May) and autumn (September and October). These months will treat you to spring blooms and fall foliage.

The low season in Paris stretches from November to the end of March, with the exception of the Christmas period . This is a great time to visit for a romantic winter getaway.

2. Pick a suitable arrondissement for your base

Paris is divided into 20 districts which are known as ‘arrondissements’. If you want a central base near Louvre Museum and Notre Dame Cathedral , opt for the 1st arrondissement on the right banks of the Seine River . If you’d like to stay near the Eiffel Tower , the 7th arrondissement has plenty of hotels with close-up views of this landmark.

Ultimately, the best arrondissement to stay in Paris depends on your travel style. Budget travelers flock to the Latin Quarter (5th arrondissement) , well-heeled shoppers splurge on luxury brands in Élysée (8th arrondissement) , while couples love the romantic vibes in Butte-Montmartre (18th arrondissement) .

3. Get skip-the-line tickets for popular attractions

Outside the Louvre Museum in Paris

No matter the season, Paris is a magnet for tourists worldwide. It’s common to see long lines in popular attractions like the Eiffel Tower and Louvre Museum.

As such, it’s worth booking skip-the-line tickets. Apart from saving precious hours, you can get special perks too. For example, Mon Petit Paris gives you priority entry to the Eiffel Tower with access to the summit viewpoint, while City Wonders takes you on a guided tour of the Louvre Museum with an art expert.

4. Consider the Paris Pass

The Paris Pass is a sightseeing pass that offers you admission to over 75 attractions in Paris. This includes famous museums from Musée d'Orsay to Grevin Museum and experiences such as wine tasting at Les Caves du Louvre . The pass ranges from 2 to 6 days.

Is the pass worth it, though? It can offer you huge savings if you build your itinerary around the attractions available—so make sure to do the math.

5. Use the public transport

Paris has an extensive transport system comprising buses, tramways, metro, and the RER train network. To get around the city easily, get a Navigo Découverte Travel Card . It costs 5 euros ($5.50) and can be purchased from the ticket office of any metro or RER station. Once you have this card, you can load a Navigo daily or weekly pass on it for unlimited travel.

Alternatively, buy a single ticket as and when you need it. These are called Ticket t+ . They are valid for two hours and they cost 1.90 euros each or 16.90 euros for a pack of 10.

6. Download the Bonjour RATP app

Navigate Paris like a pro by downloading the city’s official transport app, Bonjour RATP . This app will show you maps of the transport network and schedules in real time. You can even top up your Navigo pass with it.

7. Walk, bike, and cruise around Paris

A woman cycling around Paris

The public transportation system in Paris is convenient for visiting attractions at opposite ends of the city. However, keep in mind that Paris is compact and walkable. If you enjoy an active vacation, you can stroll for hours along wide boulevards and cobbled lanes.

Up for less conventional transport options? Velib' Métropole offers a bike-sharing program with many self-service docking points throughout the city. Book your pass online or at the automated kiosk, and you're all set to explore Paris on a Velib' bicycle.

Another great way to see Paris is on a Seine River cruise. Bateaux Parisiens has sightseeing cruises coupled with a three-course dinner and a stop at the foot of the Eiffel Tower.

8. Book popular restaurants well in advance

Paris is home to over 40,000 restaurants—but if you want to wine and dine without disappointment, book well ahead. Michelin-starred restaurants like Guy Savoy can be fully booked for months to come. Make reservations at least a week in advance to secure a dinner spot in a popular restaurant like Le Fouquet's or Le Chateaubriand .

In case you need help, ask your hotel to make these reservations for you.

9. Seek out wallet-friendly eats

A falafel from L'As du Fallafel in Paris

You don’t have to break the bank to satiate your hunger in Paris. Many restaurants offer a set menu for weekday lunch and dinner where you’ll get a starter, main course, and a dessert for a fixed price. This menu is usually displayed at the storefront. Tap water is free with your order so ask for une carafe d’eau (a water jug) to go with your meal.

For a casual bite, order the famous falafel at L'As du Fallafel or a Lebanese pizza at Man’Ouché . On top of that, any Parisian bakery down the street serves up bread, pastries, and cakes that can make up a filling meal.

10. Get off the beaten path

La Mouette Rieuse bookstore in Paris

It’s easy to fill up your itinerary with the 'must-visit' attractions in Paris. Before you do that, dig a little deeper because you might find things right up your alley—be it Musée Curie , a museum dedicated to Marie Curie, or La Mouette Rieuse , a bookstore with a hidden coffee shop.

In the mood for a stroll? Put on your walking shoes to discover Petite Ceinture . This former railway line that traverses many arrondissements has been transformed into a green walking path. It’s a real hidden gem that even some Parisians don’t know of its existence.

11. Beware of pickpockets and tourist traps

Pickpockets that prey on tourists linger around tourist areas like the Eiffel Tower, Champs-Élysées , and Montmartre . To avoid falling prey, don’t keep your valuables in your back pocket or an unzipped bag. Also, be on your guard when you’re approached by a stranger to sign a petition or buy a bracelet. Many pickpockets operate in groups where one member attempts to distract you with a ruse while another targets your belongings.

12. Learn to speak some French

A bit of French goes a long way in Paris. After all, French people are known to be proud of their language. Locals appreciate it when you greet them with ‘ bonjour ’ and thank them with ‘ merci ’. Replace your ‘please’ with ‘ s'il vous plaît ’, and you will receive a smile. You can learn some basic French for free with apps like Duolingo and Memrise .

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travelling to paris advice

13 things you should know before traveling to Paris

Fabienne Fong Yan

Nov 26, 2023 • 7 min read

travelling to paris advice

These top tips can help a first-time visitor get the most out of their time in Paris © Steve Smith / Getty Images

Bustling, diverse and surprising: such is Paris !

Due to its variety and density, navigating the city for the first time may seem challenging. Even after nearly 20 years of living in Paris, I still encounter nuances in the local lifestyle and learn about Parisian peculiarities, such as being fined for taking a Metro corridor the wrong way.

Here are some practical tips and cultural insights to help you plan for your trip and better understand France's capital.

1. You will want more time in Paris than you think

As the busiest city in France, Paris isn’t short of events, attractions or activities. A glimpse of it can be caught in just a couple of days, but to truly experience the city's diverse sights and experiences, five days to a week is considered ideal. Paris can be enchanting year-round , yet it's worth noting that August is the traditional holiday period in France, which might mean encountering closures and a slowdown in local activities.

People walk around an open space surrounded by the buildings of an art gallery, including a glass pyramid

2. Book some main attractions in advance

With limited time, pinpoint in advance the main attractions you want to visit. Booking online for museums, exhibitions or theater performances will save you a lot of time waiting in lines. Remember, Parisians enjoy their museums as much as tourists do, so visiting on weekdays and starting early can significantly change your experience of busy landmarks.

3. Leave some time to wander

If you’re more the type who goes with the flow, you might want to stroll until you find yourself surprisingly lost, discovering the unique identity of each arrondissement  (district) . They are all shaped uniquely by various layers of history. With most landmarks concentrated in the city center, it is easy to wander around and never get bored. In fact, there's even a French word for this way to visit a place: flâner . 

You might traverse from the upscale Champs-Élysées to the tourist-packed Saint-Michel, then to the trendy Le Marais and the more bohemian Belleville, all within the city's boundaries, without even realizing it. For deeper insights, consider themed tours (food, culture, history, street art, architecture, etc). Many Parisians are eager to share their city with visitors, and it’s a great way to get first-hand insider tips.

4. Dress like a Parisian

Wear something comfortable, because Paris is best explored on foot. Dark clothes will generally help you blend in with the Parisians and help deter pickpockets. That said, if you are into dressing up, don’t feel shy! This is the home of couture afterall. 

5. Personal space is important

More importantly if you wish to blend in, is being mindful of personal space, especially on public transportation. The golden rule when navigating Paris, particularly on the Metro and RER (suburban train network) is to be unobtrusive. 

During busy times, especially at rush hour (from 7am to 9am and 5pm to 7pm), put your backpack or luggage down and avoid using fold-down seats. When the carriage is full, it's often better to wait for the next train, which usually arrives within minutes. Always keep to the right on corridors and escalators, and have your ticket or Navigo travel pass handy at all times for frequent ticket barriers and control.

People sat at tables on a pavement outside a cafe

6. Get familiar with cafe culture etiquette

The best places to experience Paris and its people are at the cafes. Take a moment to rest on a terrasse –  cafe tables on the street  – to people-watch while planning the next part of your day. Upon arrival, simply choose a table and sit; servers will come and attend to you. Bills are often left with the order on the table, but payment isn't expected immediately unless explicitly stated. Tipping is not required but always appreciated.

It's not uncommon to exchange a few words with people at neighboring tables, but it's equally normal and acceptable to keep to oneself, despite the close proximity of seating (as most establishments maximize their use of pavement space). Smoking tobacco is widespread in France, particularly at outdoor cafes. Indoor smoking is prohibited by law; so if you're wondering whether smoking is allowed, look for ashtrays on the tables. Additionally, Parisians generally value discretion, so loud voices might attract disapproving looks.

7. Try and speak French, even a little 

Despite the hustle, Parisians will generally stop to help if asked. Most people are able to give basic directions in English. The phrase "excusez-moi, parlez-vous anglais?" ("excuse me, do you speak English?") is the best way to get someone's attention. It's also polite to greet and say farewell to anyone you interact with, such as shopkeepers, with bonjour (or bonsoir  at night) and au revoir . 

Should you befriend locals, don’t be surprised to see them make a move towards your cheeks. La bise – giving kisses on the cheeks (two in Paris) – is the most common greeting among friends, including between men. However, as a foreigner, you won’t be expected to do it spontaneously. 

8. Bus and tram services are more accessible than the Metro

The few Metro stations that have elevators are indicated on Metro maps. Wheelchair users or those traveling with a stroller may find it easier to travel by bus or tram, as they are more spacious, at street level, and usually equipped with ramps.

9. Always keep an eye on your belongings

Wherever you go, watch out for your personal belongings, as pickpocketing is a risk on the Metro and near popular tourist sites. Scammers may approach you with a petition to sign or items for sale, distracting you from a potential pickpocket accomplice. A "lost" jewel or banknote on the street is another distraction scam.

In some tourist areas, you might encounter people trying to place a bracelet on your wrist and then demand payment. In all cases, politely decline any unsolicited interaction and walk away. Be aware that souvenirs sold by street vendors, including plastic souvenirs at the bottom of the Eiffel Tower , are often significantly overpriced compared to those in shops.

People on bicycles and pedestrians crossing a bridge with the Eiffel Tower in the background

10. Crossing roads can be complicated

Be cautious on the streets as some roads are shared, and cars, taxis, delivery trucks, bikes, scooters, motorbikes, skaters and pedestrians are expected to coexist in these busy spaces. Although the French drive on the right, be aware that bicycles and scooters may use dedicated lanes that sometimes run counter to the traffic direction or merge with pedestrian walkways. They are not always visible so watch out in all directions before stepping out into the road.

11. Paris is generally a safe city

Fortunately, Paris is a safe city overall. In localized areas in the north-east of Paris there can be occasional criminal activity, typically at night time. As a tourist, you are unlikely to be targeted for violent crimes based on race or origin, especially when sticking to central attractions. If you need transportation late at night when the Metro isn't running (it stops between midnight and 5am on weekdays, from 1:30am on weekends), it's safest to call a taxi or use a ride-hailing app.

Generally, Paris is welcoming and LGBTIQ+ friendly (Le Marais is one of the historic “gayborhoods” in Paris). Unfortunately, catcalling towards women can happen on the streets or on public transportation, despite efforts in raising awareness. Take reasonable precautions as you would in any big city: watch out for potentially aggressive behavior – particularly from individuals who may be intoxicated or disoriented – on the Metro or on the streets.

12. Every district has its own central police station

Unfortunately things do sometimes go wrong, so if you run into a situation where the help of the police is required, look for the closest police station. Every arrondissement has its own central office open at all times. Alternatively, dial the European emergency number (112). For the fire department, dial 18.

13. The standard of medical care is high

Should you be in need of medical assistance, Paris has the largest operating public hospital system in Europe with emergency rooms equipped to receive travelers. In case of emergency, dial 15 for the ambulance service. Over-the-counter medicines can be found at pharmacies, which are on almost every street in Paris, with English-speaking staff around tourist areas. A mapping app will direct you to the nearest 24-hour pharmacy, should you need it.

This article was first published August 2021 and updated November 2023

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solosophie

50+ Paris Travel Tips You Need to Know Before Visiting

By: Author Sophie Nadeau

Posted on Last updated: 10th February 2024

Categories Paris

Last Updated on 10th February 2024 by Sophie Nadeau

Thinking of heading to Paris for the first time, the fifth time, or the thousandth time? Well, I’m sure that there are plenty of things you may well not have considered, but that you totally need to know! From the best time to visit the city to exploring off the beaten path, here are some Paris travel tips you need to know before visiting.

Travel mistakes to avoid in Paris: Paris travel tips you must know before your first visit to the French capital (tricks and practical advice on where to go, what to visit, where to stay, and more!)

First time in Paris?

Watch the paris tips video, #1 the best time to visit paris is in the shoulder seasons, #2 plan your accommodation well in advance and stay in a central location, #3 paris is a city best explored on foot, #4 take some free and self-guided walking tours, #5 beware of pickpockets and common travel scams, #6 use public transportation, #7 learn a few words of french, #8 discover france beyond paris, #9 consider purchasing the paris pass, #10 bring a comfortable pair of shoes, #11 avoid making the biggest paris mistakes, #12 expect things in paris to be closed on a sunday, #13 bring your student id, #14 make the most of coffee culture, #15 try some french cuisine, #16 always say ‘bonjour’ when you enter a shop, #17 visit the louvre museum but don’t try and see everything, #18 the eiffel tower is not in the centre of paris, #19 the eiffel tower does not provide the best view of the french capital, #20 wake up for sunrise at least once, #21 bring a travel adaptor, #22 keep your metro ticket throughout the journey, #23 scout out one of the best views of paris at galeries lafayette, #24 dress as the parisians do, #25 explore off the beaten path locations in paris, #26 make restaurant reservations in advance, #27 allow yourself time in your itinerary for exploring at a slower pace, #28 if you do want to go up the eiffel tower (though i recommend you don’t), reserve tickets in advance, #29 write down your hotel and its address, #30 the moulin rouge is largely for tourists, #31 parisians (and the french in general) tend to eat late, #32 paris isn’t only a romantic city, #33 many places close up shop in paris in august, #34 paris has plenty of small museums worth visiting, #35 montmartre is much more than the tourist attractions, #36 don’t rent a car in paris, #37 paris is divided into districts known as ‘arrondissements’, #38 the mona lisa is actually pretty small, #39 the covered passages of paris are the perfect rainy day activity, #40 the first floor is not at ground level, #41 all of paris can’t be seen over the course of a weekend, #42 the currency in paris is the euro, #43 not all baguettes are created equally, #44 you can find authentic french food at reasonable prices, #45 free bathrooms are rare, #46 free wifi is common, #47 pharmacies can be found in abundance, #48 greet people with ‘la bise’, #49 no hot drinks after a certain time, #50 internet information isn’t necessarily correct, #51 you don’t have to dress incredibly chic wherever you go, #52 know that there’s more to paris than haussmann architecture, #53 you can smoke on terraces in paris, #54 know that there is a paris air raid siren drill on the first wednesday of the month, #55 read paris blogs before you go, #56 it can be cheaper to drink your coffee at the bar/ counter, #57 keep track of your metro journey, #58 it rains a lot more than you would think in paris, #59 the entrée is not what you might be used to, #60 budget for the paris tourist tax, what to wear when exploring europe, enjoyed reading about the best paris travel tips for visiting the french capital pin it now, read it again later:.

If you’re reading this guide to my very best Paris tips (as someone who has lived in Paris for over three years), then it may well be your first time planning a trip to Paris. However, no need to worry… We’ve all been there!

It’s our first time in a new city and we have no clue where we’re going, let alone the language, which, in this case, is French. This travel guide is here to help you navigate your first time in Paris. And, if you’re short on time, then I have several quick tips to know before you read the rest of the article.

One of the main things to know before your first Paris trip are to make sure you leave Paris at least once (there’s a whole load of France worth exploring outside of the city). Some of the best day trips from the city include to Versailles, Fontainebleau, Sceaux, and Giverny.

Next, the metro is the fastest and cheapest way to get around the city. The Parisian metro is one of the oldest and most extensive in the world. It also happens to be one of the cheapest ways to get from A to B in the capital city.

If you buy a ‘carnet’ which is when you buy a book of ten metro tickets at once, it’ll cost under €1.70 a journey! If you opt to buy the ‘Easy Navigo,’ which you can buy at any station office (where there is an employee working), each journey will only cost €1.49.

Lastly, before we delve into the truly nitty gritty details that you should be aware of before visiting, be sure not to fall prey to any tourist scams, never buy bottled water at a restaurant (tap water is free- just ask for a ‘carafe’ of water at the restaurant), and be sure to learn a few simple French phrases before you go! You can buy a French phrasebook like this one to help you out.

30+ Paris travel tips to know before visiting France. Tips for visiting Paris including where to stay, what to visit, how to visit, mistakes to avoid, and the best time to plan a trip!

Best Paris travel tips

Of all the Paris holiday tips I have, this is one of my top recommended! What this means is that the best time to go to Paris is just before or just after peak season (i.e. Summer). This way, you’ll still get the good weather, albeit without as many of the crowds that inevitably visit during the warmer months of the year.

Spring and autumn also provide perfect photo opportunities, with cherry blossom season in April and fall foliage spotting in October and November.

Visit outside of peak season and you can also expect to find fewer queues and invariably lower prices when it comes to plane fares and accommodation. To find the best airfare/ bus/ train fares in advance, check out this price comparison site.

cherry blossom palais royale paris

Only book your accommodation close to the aiport if you’re getting a flight early the next morning, and only then for that night only. When it comes to your Paris visit, accommodation is going to be a large portion (if not the largest allocation) of your travel budget.

As such, I highly recommend booking your stay well in advance. Choosing a place to stay in Paris is dependent entirely on your own personal travel preferences.

Most of the luxury hotels can be found in the 8th arrondissement of the city, while more budget locations can be found near the peripherique.  Check here for the best accommodation rates in Paris.

Otherwise, if you’re looking to get a local’s perspective on the city and don’t feel like dining out every night, then you might consider booking an apartment on Air Bnb.

Like many European capital cities, Paris is a place best explored on foot. Prepare to walk plenty. After all, I often find that it’s only when I’m wandering around Paris that I truly get a feel for the authentic Paris and see the settlement from a local’s perspective.

This way, you’ll also get the opportunity to peek behind those doorways and discover the hidden gems you might have otherwise missed if you were sat on a bus or standing on the metro!

For example, this Le Marais walking tour will show you the best of medieval Paris and this old Paris vintage tour will allow you to experience the highlights of the city in just a few hours.

The Abbey Bookshop, Latin Quarter, Paris, France: façade

When visiting Europe, you’ll soon learn that the best way to explore a new (or new-to-you, at the very least) city is by taking advantage of all of the free walking tours on offer.

While many companies offer ‘free’ tours with the expectation that you’ll tip the guide at the end, you’ll soon find a plethora of self-guided tours if you type ‘free & self-guided walking tours in X’ in your search engine. Here are five free and self-guided Paris walking tours .

Throughout Paris, you’ll likely come across a variety of scams, especially if you’re largely frequenting touristic areas (around Montmartre, Hotel de Ville, and Le Marais) . These range from someone asking you to ‘sign a fake petition’ to people trying to tie a string around your hands!

Read my full guide on how to avoid these common tourist scams in Paris . Likewise, always keep an eye on your belongings, especially in places like the metro, as pickpocketing is fairly common.

Always use a bag with a zip, never wear a backpack on your back, and even then, don’t leave your wallet/ valuables near the top of your bag! For even more information, check out our guide on how to note get your phone stolen in Paris .

Notre Dame

Avoid taxis and traffic queues and hop on the metro instead. Fast, efficient, and affordable, if you’re planning on taking the metro a fair few times, or are travelling as part of a group, be sure to purchase a ‘carnet’. This is essentially a pack of ten metro tickets and offers a cheaper rate than buying each metro ticket individually.

Though Paris metro tickets are being gradually phased out in favour of the Easy Navigo pass, they’ll still be on sale for at least another year or two. When using public transportation keep a close eye on your belongings at all times, especially on the metro.

A common scam is for someone to ‘offer’ to help you purchase metro tickets, only to scam you of money and buy a cheap ticket that’s only valid for one journey.

This scam is particularly prevalent around Gare du Nord and so be sure to only buy tickets from the machines or at the designated kiosk directly.

‘Hello/ Good evening,’ (Bonjour/ Bonsoir) ‘Please,’ (S’il vous plaît) ‘Thank You,’ (Merci) and ‘Sorry’ (Pardon) are a great place to start when learning a new language.

Though many people you’ll encounter will speak English, people are more likely to be helpful if you at least try to make an effort with a little French.

A common misconception about French people is that they’re ‘really rude’. I honestly can tell you from personal experience that this is simply not the case!

Instead, making an effort to speak a few words of French will go a long way. Bring along a simple French phrasebook like this one to help you out!

Tips for improving your writing, as told by a travel writer: tips, tricks & practical advic

One of the biggest Europe travel mistakes people make is that they don’t give themselves enough time to explore France beyond Paris. After all, there are countless château, small medieval towns, and a wealth of stunning countryside to explore beyond the French capital.

Day trips close to Paris worth taking include Versailles, the château at Fontainebleau and the medieval city of Provins. For those who are wishing to go more off the beaten path and escape the more touristy destinations, Meaux is perfect for foodie lovers, while Auvers-Sur-Oise is a historical town that’s also the final resting place of Vincent Van Gogh.

If you’re planning on visiting a lot of attractions while in the city (or simply want to skip many of the long waiting lines), then I highly recommend purchasing the Paris Pass ( buy the card here ) .

Benefits of the pass include skipping the long line at many of the major attractions and you’ll get free transportation on the metro and buses.

Before purchasing the pass (or any individual entrance tickets), add up the cost of all the attractions you wish to see and work out whether it’s cheaper to buy the pass or pay for each ticket individually.

In any case, I highly recommend purchasing all of your entrance tickets in advance so as to make the most of skip-the-line functions on offer! I use GetYourGuide to purchase tickets in advance.

unusual metro stations in paris concorde

When it comes to exploring the city, there’s perhaps no way to uncover the French capital’s greatest secrets than by wandering around and getting a little lost.

When wandering around Paris, it’s not uncommon to clock upwards of 20,000 steps a day, so be prepared and wear your comfiest shoes to walk in!

I personally own these sandals and love them so much that I’ve bought them in several colours! Otherwise, you should know that while once upon a time, trainers were a big no-no, today fashion and practicality have caught up with one another, and you’ll be thankful for packing a pair of comfy trainers. I personally love these fashion trainers but find plimsolls like these ones the most practical for exploring the city!

From ordering bottled water in a restaurant to not greeting the shop keeper upon entering the store, there is a myriad of mistakes you can make when visiting Paris without even realising it. For a full guide, check out the 12 most common Paris mistakes (and how you can avoid them)!

Otherwise, my top tip would be to avoid wasting time in Paris by ensuring that you don’t have to wait in any long lines of queues! What this means is to book your entrance tickets well in advance and with skip-the-line functions for all the major monuments and attractions.

Purchase your skip-the-line Louvre ticket here , purchase your skip-the-line Versailles ticket here , and purchase your Eiffel Tower skip-the-line ticket here .

What's on? Paris in December guide. Here are the very best things to do in Paris during the end of the year suggested activities, things to do in December in Parsi, France, cafés and what to wear!

As in many predominantly Catholic countries, many things are closed for business on a Sunday, or at the very least, operate under limited hours. As such, if you need to purchase some supplies from the supermarket or the like, be sure to buy these well in advance.

Head to the countryside, and you can expect to find that even many of the bars and restaurants will be closed come Sunday. With this being said, most major museums, as well as attractions like the Eiffel Tower and Arc de Triomphe, remain open on Sundays.

Museums such as the Louvre and Musée d’Orsay are typically closed on Mondays or Tuesdays instead. For more information, be sure to check out our guide to visiting Paris on a Sunday .

And while we’re on the subject of French monuments, it’s worth noting that many attractions, monuments, and museums allow free entry to those under 26 who are residents of the EU.

As such, be sure to bring along your ID to make the most of this offer. Other establishments across the city (including eateries) offer student discounts, so be sure to bring your student ID along with you if applicable.

where to see the best fall foliage in paris, france: musée d'orsay

Sitting in a café, sipping on an espresso, and watching the world go by: it is perhaps one of Paris’ clichés. But, truth be told, you have to make the time to enjoy café culture at least once when in Paris.

In the past few years, coffee culture in Paris has exploded, resulting in exciting new openings and plenty of delicious caffeine stops across the city.

Some of the prettiest coffee shops in the city include Le Consulat (Montmartre) , Odette (the Latin Quarter) , and Café Oberkampf (the 11th arrondissement ) . For a closer look at Paris’ ever-growing coffee culture, check out The New Paris by Lindsey Tramuta of the blog, Lost in Cheeseland.

And while we’re on the subject, of eating in France, stay away from the usual chain restaurants when in Paris. After all, the city is often thought to be one of the best gastronomic capitals of the world.

Even if you’re vegan or vegetarian in Paris, there are still plenty of opportunities to enjoy fresh and authentic French cuisine, albeit with a meat-free and dairy-free twist!

Here’s your complete guide to eating vegan in Paris.  One of my favourite meals of the day is that of the French breakfast; for more details, check out this guide on everything you need to know about a traditional French breakfast .

French baguette: bread in France

If you don’t make the effort to say ‘hello’ when entering a store in France, this is seen as the height of rudeness. As such, you’ll find storekeepers much friendlier and easier to talk to so long as you say ‘bonjour’ when entering any establishment/ shop.

As the largest museum in the world, it’s clear that the Louvre has plenty of things to see, including of course, the Mona Lisa! However, if you want to make the most of your visit, then try and plan your visit in advance, or at the very least try to stick to just visiting one wing of the museum.

That way, you’ll be able to enjoy your visit all the more. Before visiting, I’d recommend purchasing a Louvre ticket in advance (or entrance to the museum is included in the Paris Pass) .

This has a handy skip-the-line feature which will mean less time waiting, and more time actually enjoying the museum. Otherwise, check out my Louvre travel tips that will help you get the most out of your visit to the largest museum in the world!

louvre glass pyramid

Many people make the mistake of thinking that the Eiffel Tower is in the heart of the city, in the midst of all the other Parisian attractions. Instead, the Eiffel Tower is surrounded by empty space (the Champ de Mars and Jardins du Trocadero).

La Tour Eiffel, as it is so-called, is in the Western side of Paris and not anywhere close to Notre Dame, Montmartre, or Le Marais.

If you’re looking for the very heart of the city, then you should be looking towards Île de la Cité, the larger of the two natural islands on the River Seine where you’ll find the likes of Sainte Chapelle and Hôtel Dieu de Paris .

And while we’re talking about the Eiffel Tower (or Tour Eiffel as it is so-called in Frenc), make note of the fact that the Eiffel Tower probably provides the most disappointing view in Paris!

If you’re looking for a gorgeous view, then one of the best Paris travel tips which I highly recommend is to skip out on the Iron Lady and instead, head to the Arc de Triomphe .

arc de triomphe

While almost everyone is present for sunset, the sunrise provides the perfect opportunity to get more of the place to yourself. In my opinion, the best place to see the sunrise in Paris is at Trocadero. Once there, you’ll soon discover the largest fountain in Paris acts as a water mirror, reflecting the Eiffel Tower and pastel skies.

Paris (and France in general) uses plug types, types C and E. As such, if you’re travelling from the UK, USA, Canada, and many other destinations, you’ll need to buy an adaptor.

I recommend buying a universal travel adaptor that you can use for multiple destinations (rather than buying a new adaptor for each place you visit).

Paris floods, France: history, legend and photos: sunset and notre dame

Many people make the mistake of discarding their used metro ticket as soon as they’ve passed through the gate. However, if you do this, then you’ll be at risk of getting a fine!

So be sure to keep hold of that tiny ticket in case someone checks your metro ticket at any time during your journey (including when you’re about to exit the metro!)

If you’re found to not have a ticket, the fines can be anything upwards of €33, so be sure to keep that ticket super safe (and do actually buy a ticket, rather than jumping over the barrier)!

Ignorance of how the system works is not a valid excuse and you’ll still be made to pay a fine if you’re found to not have a validated ticket.

One of the best free things to do in Paris is to head to the Galeries Lafayette rooftop terrace . Located above the ever-so-pretty Art Nouveau Cupola in the department store’s flagship store, the rooftop terrace is typically open during daylight hours.

Offering unparalleled views of the Eiffel Tower, Opera House, and more, you really should be visiting this rooftop at least once during your trip to Paris! The best time of the day to go is late afternoon when the light is simply gorgeous.

Galeries Lafayette Rooftop Terrace: one of the best panoramic views of Paris, France

What this means is maintaining a largely neutral wardrobe. Skip the bold prints and bright sneakers. Instead, opt for a monochromatic feel (though neutral sneakers/ trainers are fine for walking around and is what many Parisians wear). For more tips, check out this article on how to dress more like a Parisienne .

Between a lost iron railway that loops itself around the city and a colourful street that appears as if it comes straight from London’s Notting Hill, there’s no shortage of unique, quirky, and unusual things to do in the city.

After you’ve seen many of Paris’ major attractions, be sure to check out these offbeat Paris locations (I promise you won’t be disappointed!)

Parc des Buttes Chaumont, 19e arrondissement, Paris, France: petite ceinture

The most popular places in town tend to get booked up fast, especially if you’re dining out during the weekend. As such, I highly recommend booking your table well in advance.

And for those who are wondering some of the best places to eat in Paris, there are plenty of options from which to choose!

For example, Bouillon Chartier (7 Rue du Faubourg Montmartre) offers affordable and authentic French food, though you can’t book in advance and Le Bistrot d’Henri (16 Rue Princesse) is a tiny eatery has barely any cover spaces and is perfect for date night. You can reserve a table in advance, which I highly recommend considering the popularity of the place!

Of all the tips for travelling to Paris that are on this list, this one is incredibly important. Paris is a city that simply can’t be fully seen in ten decades, let alone in a long weekend!

If you try and do too much while in the French capital, you won’t be able to fully enjoy your experience. Likewise, pull out a map and plan to see attractions and monuments by area, otherwise, you might find that you’ll spend much of your visit on public transport!

Of course, one of the best ways to enjoy Paris and stumble upon an otherwise hidden gem is to allow yourself to get a little lost while exploring on foot… So allow yourself time to do this too!

Le Clos Montmartre: a hidden and secret vineyard in the heart of Montmartre, Paris, France

As I’ve previously said, the best view of Paris can be found in the form of the rooftop of the Arc de Triomphe, at the end of the Champs Elysees. However, if you do  still want to ascent la Tour Eiffel, I recommend booking your ticket well in advance. This way, you’ll get a skip-the-line feature. Check Eiffel Tower tickets and prices here.

If your phone fails you, as so often technology does, you’ll want to have your hotel’s name and address written down in a safe place. After all, thanks to the Haussmannian renovations of the city in the 19th-century, many streets across the French capital look pretty similar and it’s easy to get a little lost!

Hotel Plaza Elysées Review, 177 Boulevard Haussmann, Paris, France

Whenever I’ve gone past the Moulin Rouge, it’s soon become apparent that the only people standing in front are largely tourists, clicking away with their cameras.

Just as many of the shows in Las Vegas are catered towards visitors as opposed to residents, so are the shows at the Moulin Rouge.

Typically, people in Paris will dine after 8 PM and even up to 9 PM or 9:30 PM. This also means that many restaurants don’t open until at least 7 PM, and more often than not 7:30 PM.

If you’re looking to enjoy a traditional French meal, then this is worth bearing in mind and perhaps you’ll want to carry snacks with you so as to wait for the late dinner!

tien hiang vegan and vegetarian chinese restaurant in paris

If you’re thinking of skipping out on Paris as you think it’s only a city for romantics, then this would be your first European travel mistake. After all, you can travel solo in Paris if you so prefer, or you can plan a girls getaway with all of your best friends. Paris has so much to offer and is simply not just for couples!

While July is a hectic month, with crowds of tourists from all over the world converging on the city, August is traditionally the time when the Parisians themselves go on holiday, often to the South of France.

What this means for you is that the city is generally quieter than other times in the high season, though many stores and coffee shops will be closed for the month.

cute wooden boats jardin des tuileries

Of all the tips for visiting Paris, checking out some of the smaller museums in the city is close to the top of the list. From a museum that specialises in Vampires and Legends, to a house museum where Renoir once resided close to Montmartre’s vineyard, here’s your guide to the best small museums in Paris.

While many people venture inside the Sacré Coeur and wander around Place du Tertre , where all of the artists can be found, few go beyond this.

As such, they’re missing out on much of what makes Montmartre such a wonderful place to visit. Here’s a guide to the best hidden gems of Montmartre .

Villa Leandré: An English-Inspired Art-Deco Street in Montmartre, 18th arrondissement, Paris, France

One of the best travel tips for Paris I would give you is not to rent a car in Paris! The traffic is quite congested in some areas and the driving may be completely different from what you’re used to back home. Instead, public transportation can be found in abundance across the city.

In total there are twenty arrondissements in Paris . Each has its own vibe, set of museums, attractions, and merit. Some of the more popular arrondissements include the 18th (Montmartre), 3rd and 4th (Le Marais) and the 5th (the Latin Quarter). Do your research before and decide where you most want to explore!

Notre-Dame-de-Consolation: A Neo-Baroque Chapel in Paris, secret church of the 8e arrondissement, near the Champs Élysées

What may well be Leonardo Da Vinci’s most famous work is the Mona Lisa and it can be found surrounded by security guards in the Louvre Museum. What you may well not know is that this work of art is so famous because the Mona Lisa was actually stolen during the early 20th-century.

In an adjacent room, you’ll find equally beautiful Da Vinci works, albeit without the crowds surrounding the Mona Lisa.

Once upon a time (well, in the 1700s and 1800s, actually!) , there were over a hundred and fifty covered walkways constructed in Paris. Today, only a handful of these passages exist, containing all manner of shops, cultural establishments, and independent boutiques.

Perfect for escaping the weather on a particularly cold or rainy day, some of my favourites include Passage des Panoramas (the oldest covered passageway in Paris), and Passage du Grand Cerf (a pretty and tiled passage named for a pub at the end of the walkway).

Other rainy day in Paris activities include scouting out the best macarons in the city, or even taking a macaron baking class like this one , discovering the quaintest cafés the city has to offer, and hiding from the rain in one of the one hundred plus museums that the city has to offer!

Passage des Panoramas 9th arrondissement: How to visit the Oldest Covered Passage in Paris, one of the best rainy day activities in the City of Light, France

If you come from North America, then you may well be used to calling the ground floor/ level, floor 1. However, visit Europe and you’ll soon discover that instead of floor levels being 1, 2, 3, 4, the levels are instead labelled as follows: 0/ ground level, 1, 2, 3, 4. This means that what you might have previously called the second level, is actually the first level in Europe.

If you’re looking to enjoy the sights, sounds, and smells of Paris, then it’s worth noting that the entirety of Paris can’t be explored over the course of a weekend.

Instead, if you’re visiting for a shorter amount of time, then focus on a topic or area that you particularly want to enjoy. For example, would you like to go in search of Art Nouveau architecture, or would you prefer to discover delightful Montmartre?

How to See the Paris Statue of Liberty, Pont de Grenelle, 15th arrondissement, Paris, France

Prior to 2002, France used francs, and if you visit some restaurants, you’ll soon discover that some menus and receipts still print the franc price/ conversion as well as the euro amount.

37 countries across the continent use the euro now, meaning that you won’t have to dabble in different currencies when visiting many European destinations.

ATMs are readily available across Paris and so don’t feel the need to carry too much cash on you at any one time. It’s also not possible to purchase/ pay for anything for more than €1000 in cash as this has been banned since 2015.

Though France is famous for their legendary breads, it’s clear that some boulangeries create better baguettes than others. If you can, avoid grocery shopping for baguettes in the French supermarket as these tend to err a little on the dry side.

Instead, head to your local boulangerie, where the price of a baguette will typically be between €0,90 and €1,30. You should also know that boulangeries are only legally allowed to be called ‘boulangerie’ if the bread is baked and kneaded on the premises.

bread festival in paris

If you’re on the lookout for a reasonable price, then be sure to head to Bouillon Chartier in the 9th arrondissement of the city, not far from many of the covered passages of Paris.

Though a little more touristy than some of the other destinations, service is fast and the restaurant is set against the backdrop of a Belle Époque dining room. For a slightly more intimate and less touristy foodie experience in Paris, I highly recommend heading to Le Bistrot d’Henri in the 6th arrondissement of the city.

More often than not, public bathroom facilities are to be paid for and so you should always keep some change on you in the eventuality you’ll need to use the WC!

While I personally recommend heading to a café and getting an espresso as this will work out at around the same price, public bathrooms in Paris can range from anything to 30 cents and up to €1,50 (such as those in the Jardin des Tuileries).

La Campagne à Paris: The Countryside in the 20th Arrondissement, Paris, France

Unlike in other European countries (such as Switzerland) where often the only way to access the WiFi is to have access to a phone number, free WiFi in Paris is becoming increasingly common, particularly in more modern bars, restaurants, and cafés. Indeed, I’ve never come across a hotel in Paris where you have to pay for the WiFi either!

Although, unlike in many other European countries, medicine such as ibuprofen and paracetamol can’t be purchased in the supermarket, there’s no shortage of pharmacies to make up for the fact.

Selling everything from over the counter medication to luxury beauty and hair products, there are close to a thousand pharmacies across the French capital. One of the most popular pharmacies where you can buy good skincare products at a reasonable price is called Citypharma.

Notre Dame de Paris Christmas Market Guide (Marché de Noël de Notre Dame): how to visit the festive Christmas market at Square René-Viviani, Latin Quarter, Paris, France

If you’re from an Anglophone country, then you may well be used to greeting friends and family with a hug. However, in France this is not commonplace and friends and family will instead greet one another with ‘ la bise ,’.

This is an air kiss on either side of the cheeks (and up to five times, depending on which region you’re from) . Otherwise, note that, in more formal situations, a handshake is the right course of action to take.

If you visit Paris, then no doubt you’ll be pleased to discover the French capital’s coffee culture, whereby cafés, bars, and bistros quite literally spill out onto the streets of the city.

But one peculiar quirk of this is that, unlike what you might imagine, many cafés stop serving hot drinks after a certain time. In some places, this can be as early as 4 pm (or “16h” as  French person would say).

Coffee Culture in The Hague is fantastic

It’s not unheard of to head to a café, shop, or place of business, only to discover that it’s actually closed or simply operates under different hours from which are advertised online.

It’s happened to me many times where a shop has been said to be open, only for me to go and visit and the store is ‘actually closed for a lunch break’. As such, don’t be surprised should this happen to you!

If dressing in heels and dresses is not your thing, then that is completely fine. While the rather outdated stereotype of a Parisian woman is that she’ll always have the latest fashion accessories, this is not at all the reality of life in Paris. Instead, plenty of people wear sneakers to wander around the city.

When you think Paris, you probably think of the classical sandy stoned building style that’s known as Haussmannian. What you may well not know about is that there’s also a fair bit of Art Nouveau in Paris to be discovered too. Fore more inspiration, check out our guide to the best of Art Nouveau in Paris.

14 Rue d'Abbeville: The Art-Deco House Hiding in the 9th Arrondissement

Unlike many restaurants in cities such as New York, there is not normally a designated smoking area on terraces in Paris. This can mean that you can be sat right next to smokers should you opt to take your meal or drink outside.

Though it’s illegal in France to smoke inside, most terraces allow smoking, unless they specify otherwise (such as Treize Bakery, an American restaurant in the shadow of the Luxembourg gardens). 

One of the things that most shocked me when I first moved to Paris is that there is an air raid siren drill on the first Wednesday of every month. This drill occurs at 12 midday for around 40 seconds. The sirens are loud and can be surprising if you’re not expecting to hear them, but don’t last for too long!

Last but not least, if you want the inside scoop on the best things to know about Paris before visiting, then I highly recommend checking out Parisian bloggers before you go.

Of course, this site has plenty of know-how tips, tricks, and practical guides, but there’s a wealth of information just waiting to be discovered!

Just hop onto Pinterest, Instagram, or indeed a search engine, type in what you wish to discover, and away you go… For more inspiration, check out my guide to the best Paris content creators (including Podcasts, Vlogs, and Blogs).

Please note that one of my top Paris travel tips is that there is often a different price for sitting outside/ inside at a café table as opposed to consuming your beverage at the bar/counter itself.

In French, the bar is known as the ‘zinc’ and it’s usually cheaper to consume your drink (sometimes up to €1 off) at the bar.

One of the most important things to consider when riding on the Parisian metro is that the metro stop is not always announced when arriving at a station. While some lines do this, others do not and so it’s important to look out the window/ keep track of what stations you’ve passed in order to know when it’s time to get off the metro.

Bring an umbrella because the weather is very erratic… and when it rains, it rains! Don’t think London drizzle, think Paris pour! From the first day since I arrived to live in Paris , the weather hasn’t been a ‘single medium’ on any given day but actually, multiple weather events have occurred.

How to Host the Perfect French Dinner Party

In North America, the Entrée is usually the main dish. However, entrée literally means ‘the entrance’ and so is actually the first plate of the meal in France (also known as the starter in British English). In France, the first dish is the entrée, while the second (main) dish is the plat principal.

One thing you might not necessarily be aware of when planning a trip to Paris is that all overnight accommodation providers (including self catered apartments and tourist hotels) are legally obliged to charge what is known as a tourist tax . This used to be a few euros per night, but as of 2024, can be as much as €14.95 per person.

In the summer, you can’t go wrong by pairing a cute midi dress with classic white tennis shoes for a laid-back smart casual look that’s just as chic for walking around a city’s cobbled lanes as it is for wandering coastal paths. I love this dress and have it in several colour ways. In terms of tennis shoes, this is my go-to shoe.

When it comes to winter in Europe, most places (with the exception of a few islands) can get pretty cold and so warm layers is a must. I find that cute ankle boots like these ones are the perfect mix of practical meets cute.

Shoulder seasons (spring and summer) in Europe tend to come with a mix of rainy and sunny days and so, again, layers are a must. Trench coats and sneakers are the best uniform to explore the continent in.

Finally, a cross-body bag like these ones is a must. I personally use a crossbody bag  by this brand  and love its shape, size, and versatility. As well as being convenient and compact, it’s one of the safest ways to transport your valuables, all the while looking chic. I also recommend bringing along a travel adapter  like this one  so you can charge all of your electronics during your stay!

Paris tips: looking to visit Paris for the first time? This is your ultimate guide to things you must know before visiting the French capital city of France

Sophie Nadeau loves dogs, books, travel, pizza, and history. A Francophile at heart, she runs solosophie.com when she’s not chasing after the next sunset shot or consuming something sweet. She splits her time between Paris and London and travels as much as she can! Subscribe to Sophie’s YouTube Channel.

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Saturday 22nd of July 2023

Many thanks for these good travel tips when for those who are going to Paris. Another nice suggestion is the obervation deck at Tour Montparnasse, which will give you a great view over the city. Perhaps is our online route planner for the Parisian metro useful as well: https://www.metrocazar.com/paris/

Nicola Costa

Wednesday 15th of March 2023

Hi there - I am due to go to Paris shortly for a sightseeing break with my two daughters and the tips in your guide are so helpful. Thank you. I am soooooo looking forward to our trip.

Sophie Nadeau

Thank you! I hope you have a wonderful time in Paris- spring is easily one of the best times to see the city so you've definitely chosen well!

Ashley Lillie

Thursday 18th of November 2021

Thank you for such a sensible and insightful guide. I found some of the solutions you present the hard way but, that noted, I don't regret a moment I've spent in Paris.

come & stay

Tuesday 12th of October 2021

I have read many travel blogs about France. I like yours very much especially the way you present your tips. I think everyone should know about these things before planning a tour of France. Thank you so much for sharing this informative article with us.

Saturday 14th of December 2019

What a great tips! Thank you for sharing this great informations. i really love paris !

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travelling to paris advice

27 Essential Paris Travel Tips: Things to Know Before Traveling to Paris

We’ve visited Paris now two different times and we’ve learned a few things both times we’ve visited. Our first visit was a family trip to Paris with a toddler and a baby and our second visit was a weekend getaway sans kids. I’m pretty sure I put together the best itinerary for two days in Paris – check it out.

As you can imagine both visits were very different experiences (Paris tends to feel a little more romantic when it’s just you and your partner 🤪) but we did have a great time both times.

But from these two different visits to Paris (traveling in different very different ways each time) I’ve come up with these essential Paris travel tips that I wish I had known before our first visit to Paris.

These are general overall Paris tips, however, if you’re thinking of visiting Paris with the kiddos, be sure to check out my full guide to visiting Paris with young kids for things to do that both you and your kids will love. Plus it includes my top tips for visiting Paris for the first time as a young family (you’ll thank me later).

Man stands in front of water with palace in the background

*There may be affiliate links in this post. Read my  privacy/disclosure policy  to learn more.

Is Paris worth visiting?

Yes, definitely yes. However, you need to make sure you go into your visit with the proper expectations. Paris is a huge city which means it can be extremely romantic and lovely in one area and filled with insane crowds and stinky smells in another area.

If you only spend time waiting in line to go up the Eiffel Tower, or for entrance to the Louvre, you’re not going to have a very nice impression of Paris. However, if you take time to sit down at a cafe on the street and people-watch while listening to people beautifully speaking French- you may just love it.

One of the first things I did in Paris was head to Champ de Mars at the base of the Eiffel Tower and I was extremely disappointed in the crowds, dirt, and scams.

However, once I got a bit further from the Eiffel Tower, wandered some quiet streets, and enjoyed Eiffel Tower views from a distance (while eating a pain au chocolate) I was smitten.

So I’ve gathered up this list of things you need to know before visiting Paris for you to really fall in love with the city as well.

27 Paris Tips You Need to Know

1. spring and fall are the best times to visit paris to avoid crowds.

I know you can’t always be flexible with your travel dates, however, if you can steer clear of visiting Paris in July and August I highly recommend it. Ideally, try visiting Paris in April-May or September-October. The weather is still usually warm but the crowds and lodging prices haven’t peaked yet.

Our first trip to Paris was in mid-September and I never really noticed long lines or crowds of people (or the crowds I did see I soon realized were nothing compared to our trip in August).

On our first trip to Paris in September, there was no queue for the Eiffel Tower, our Seine River Cruise had many empty seats and there were places to sit and take in the view from Sacre Coeur.

However, on our second trip to Paris in mid-August (literally, one of the worst times to go) the crowds were INSANE.

The standby line for the Eiffel Tower was THREE hours long, the area around Sacre Coeur was basically unnavigable because of the crowds of people and the Seine River cruises looked like they were going to bust at the seam.

travelling to paris advice

We’ve lived in Europe for 4 years now, and each year we are blown away by the crowds that July and August bring. Not only is it when European kids are out of school, but it’s common practice in many European countries to use multiple weeks of PTO in July and August.

So you end up competing for space with travelers from both Europe and the US (not to mention the rest of the world) everywhere you go. Just steer clear if at all possible.

2. You’re going to see the word ‘arrondissement’ a lot when planning your trip to Paris

Paris is comprised of 20 arrondissements or sections of the city. They start in the center and spiral outwards like a snail. Because of this spiral shape, arrondissements 2 and 9 happen to be right next to each other (which can be confusing when you first start looking into things… like shouldn’t arrondissement 2 only be by 1 and 3?).

Sidewalk lined with cafe chairs and a cafe with a large red canopy

But if someone ever starts spouting off different arrondissement numbers and you get a little overwhelmed, just quickly Google ‘Paris arrondissements’ and you’ll find plenty of maps showing you where they all are. No need to memorize them all, but it definitely can be helpful to understand the general idea.

3. Keep in mind that Paris is a Big City

Maybe this is the most obvious statement of the century, but keep in mind that Paris is quite large. I was shocked when I started mapping things out for our first trip to Paris and realized that some destinations can be quite a jaunt from one to the next.

travelling to paris advice

For example, if you want to head from the Eiffel Tower area up to the Montmartre area, you can expect about 30+ minutes on the metro or bus.

That doesn’t mean that there aren’t areas of Paris that are walkable-there totally are. But you’ll want to plan a pretty good itinerary to save you from adding extra, unnecessary miles on foot and wasting your precious time in the city.

Check out my two days in Paris itinerary for some ideas.

4. The Eiffel Tower is not in the center of Paris

I know, I know, the way the Eiffel Tower is talked about makes it seem like it’s going to be right front and center in Paris. In reality, the Louvre is more front and center with the Eiffel Tower being on the west end of the city.

This means that if you want a hotel with Eiffel Tower views (which, honestly, the rooftop views from Rayz Eiffel Hotel was a huuuge highlight of our most recent getaway) you’ll just need a bit more time to get to some of the more central Parisian sites.

Also keep in mind that if you want to go from the Montmartre area to the Eiffel Tower, it’s going to be about 40 minutes on transit. Not a huge deal, but something good to be aware of.

5. Choose your Accommodations wisely

When you first start looking for accommodations in Paris you’ll quickly realize the options are absolutely overwhelming. Searching through the vast number of hotels and vacation rentals in the city is really quite exhausting.

But if you have a few must-have features in mind, it’ll make the process a bit easier. As a starter, I’d generally recommend staying in Arrondissements 1-5. And, of course, Arrondissement 7 if you want to be close to the Eiffel Tower.

Red headboard next to bed with white sheets in front of black and white wallpapered wall at Rayz Eiffel Hotel

In addition to the area you stay in, here are a few other things to think about to help narrow your search results:

  • What is your budget? Are you willing to spend a little more to be in a specific area or to have a place with better reviews?
  • Do you want A/C? It’s not a given that any certain place will have A/C in Paris (and it may not seem like a big deal when you’re booking). However, coming back to a place with A/C after walking around for hours on a hot day in the city feels like a godsend.
  • Do you want Eiffel Tower views from your hotel? Keep in mind that many hotel rooms with Eiffel Tower views are going to cost you a pretty penny (or 5 pretty pennies 🙈). However, we stayed at an absolute gem of a small, boutique hotel called Rayz Eiffel . It had a super cozy rooftop with amazing Eiffel Tower views and the rates were extremelyyy reasonable. I still daydream about cuddling on the rooftop couch, eating treats from the boulangerie, and watching the Eiffel Tower sparkle.
  • Is an apartment with a full kitchen important to you? This was very important to us on our first trip to Paris with kids. We ate all of our breakfasts and most dinners at our Airbnb plus we loved having two bedrooms and a living room. But if you plan on eating out as much as possible, a kitchen maybe isn’t for you.
  • Do you need your hotel to have a complimentary breakfast? Keep in mind that complimentary breakfast can range from a full breakfast buffet to a coffee/juice with a croissant and fruit. Which, btw, if you are looking for a delicious, cozy breakfast spot try out Kozy they serve brunch all day and have three locations throughout Paris.

I still daydream about the hotel that we stayed at last time we were in Paris. I spent hours and hours researching hotels in Paris with Eiffel Tower views. I wanted to find a beautiful hotel with Eiffel Tower views that was clean, had great reviews and didn’t cost an arm and a leg.

And I am proud to say that my insane research paid off. I feel like our hotel in Paris was a real hidden gem. We stayed at a small, boutique hotel called Rayz Eiffel and it was amazing. The rooms had real ’boutique hotel vibes’ with dark colors, beautiful wallpaper and unique lights.

Brown couch on rooftop next to black wall with windows looking out to the Eiffel Tower

Some rooms have Eiffel Tower views, however, the real highlight of Rayz Eiffel Hotel is the cozy, rooftop with stunning Eiffel Tower views (and even views of Sacré-Cœur). It’s a small rooftop with two tables and a large couch and it was the highlight of our trip.

Because it’s such a small boutique hotel, we only encountered a couple other people on the rooftop and most times had it all to ourselves. It was seriously so great.

You’re allowed to bring food up to the roof so we ordered dinner via Uber Eats one night and ate it up top and we also hung out later that night to watch the Eiffel Tower sparkle.

From my research, Paris hotel rooms with Eiffel Tower views seemed to run €400+ per night. However, Rayz Eiffel Hotel with an amazing rooftop with Eiffel Tower views was only €230 per night (which is not a bad hotel price in general in Paris).

I’m going to be singing Rayz Eiffel Hotel praises to anyone who will listen for as long as I can.

6. Consider using Wanderlog to plan out your itinerary

I don’t know how we functioned before planning our trips with Wanderlog. But a friend introduced Wanderlog to me about a year ago and it has been a total game changer.

Wanderlog is basically the collaborative trip-planning app that you’ve always needed but didn’t know you did. It has a general overview section where you can save any and all ideas for your trip and organize them into ‘things to do’ or ‘places to eat’ etc.

All of the items are then pinned on a map so that you can easily choose central lodging and create an itinerary that makes sense.

Ornate carousel in front of large white building with domed, pointed roofs in Paris

The itinerary section lets you plan out a detailed itinerary for each day of your trip with photos and websites automatically linked for easy access to more information (it really is amazing).

Plus (as if it already didn’t have enough features) it will tell you the distance/time between each stop AND you can upload your flights, lodging, rental cars, etc. to have all of your important info in one place.

I always invite my husband to our Wanderlog trips so that we can collaborate together and be on the same page with what’s happening. I can’t believe I used to save a bunch of links in a note on my phone or make an itinerary in a Google Doc. I will never go back to that.

7. Purchase a transit pass for easy public transit use

Chances are high that you’ll want to take public transit while you are in Paris (it’s WAY too big to navigate on foot and taxi/Uber rides would quickly add up). The good news is that the public transit routes are great and can get you anywhere you need to go (both underground metro and busses).

No matter where we travel, I ALWAYS purchase some sort of transit pass. It’s such a pain to purchase individual tickets each time you want to take a bus or metro. Sometimes there’s not a ticket machine, or maybe there is a large crowd you’re holding up on the bus… you get the idea.

So one of the best Paris tips & tricks to take advantage of is purchasing a transit pass.

Here are the two different transit passes I recommend in Paris:

  • Paris Visite Travel Pass : Unlimited daily travel on all public transit networks (the metro, tramway, bus, RER, and SNCF Transilien networks). Can be purchased in 1,2,3 or 5-day increments. It also includes a few discounts like 25% off entrance to the Arc de Triomphe. Purchase online or at a ticket booth. Each day starts in the morning and ends at night (not 24 hours from when you buy it).
  • Navigo Easy Travel Card: Must first purchase the card from a station ticket office but then you can add individual tickets to the card via a ticket machine or mobile app. A bundle of 10 tickets is €14.90 (so €1.49 per trip).

Hand holds up a blue and white card that reads 'Navigo Easy'

We opted for the Navigo Easy card on our most recent Paris getaway. we were going to be in Paris for 2 days but we didn’t think we’d ride transit more than 10 times. So we purchased this card and loaded 10 tickets on instead of paying for the two whole days on the Paris Visite Travel pass.

In our situation, the Navigo Easy ended up being about half the price of the Paris Visite Travel card. However, depending on your days and transit use, the Paris Visite Travel Pass may be a better option. Both are super easy to use and great options.

8. Remember that buses exist (It’s not just the underground metro)

One of the top things to know before going to Paris is that * in my opinion * taking the bus is just as good or sometimes better than taking the underground Metro.

I know I know… everyone’s always talking about navigating the Metro in big European cities like Paris and London and that it’s so fast and convenient. Which it’s true! The metro system is quite fast and convenient and can get you pretty much anywhere.

But so can the buses…

Beautiful white building on a street corner with pink and white striped awnings and black signs

If you use Google Maps to help plan your public transit routes, you’ll see that many different public transit options are available. Just scroll down because there are usually multiple, different good options from where you’re at and it’s. up to you to decide if you want to take a metro and walk, or take two different metros or take a bus, etc.

The bus and metro options are usually very similar in duration. However, if you choose to take the bus you get to look out the window and see the city pass you by.

Plus, with the bus, you just stop on the side of the road at a bus stop and wait for it to pick you up instead of having to navigate stairs on stairs on stairs multiple levels underground.

I’m not saying the bus is ALWAYS the best choice, but I highly recommend it (and if you’re visiting Paris with a stroller, just take the bus- trust me it’s SO much easier).

Let’s stop the notion that the metro is the ONLY way to navigate big cities.

9. A taxi/Uber may be just as cost-effective as the RER Train to the AIrport

Sometimes I just get tired of taking my luggage on public transit. Don’t get me wrong, I’ve done it plenty of times and continue to do it frequently. However, sometimes it’s just nice to have a taxi or Uber meet you at your door, and off you go.

Usually, public transit is the most cost-effective way to go. However, if you are traveling with a few different people, the split cost of a taxi could end up being similar to an RER train ticket.

A taxi/Uber from Paris to Charles de Gaulle is usually between 50 and 60 euros and an RER Train ticket to CDG Airport is 12 euros. So if there are four of you traveling together, you’re getting close to the price of an Uber or Taxi and the comfort and convenience may just be worth it.

If you are traveling in Paris with car seat-aged kids, we’ve used Baby Cabs multiple times and I highly recommend them.

Just book your ride 24 hours in advance and they’ll meet you at the airport or your accommodations with the perfect car seats already installed and away you go (and make sure you have cash on hand to pay them).

Nobody wants to be navigating public transit with young kids, a stroller, and luggage… we’ve done it and it’s a bit miserable.

10. Be polite and greet everyone with ‘bonjour’ when you Visit Paris

From what I had read online, I was really nervous that French people were going to be so mean. So many places you’ll read that you need to say ‘bonjour’ whenever entering an establishment and that if you don’t the workers will be so rude.

After spending time in Paris, I’ve realized that saying bonjour is just the polite, nice thing to do (just as we often greet store workers with ‘hello’ in the US). And since you are in Paris, it makes sense to say it in French. And if you don’t greet someone (just like in the US) they might be a little annoyed with you.

And if you ever come across someone who seems to refuse to speak in English to you… that may just be because they don’t know English or they are very insecure about their English. The English literacy rate in France is quite low compared. to other European countries.

travelling to paris advice

We have had so many lovely, friendly encounters in Paris and were absolutely are delighted to be greeted with ‘bonjour’ by so many passersby. I guess living in Denmark where it’s much more uncommon to greet strangers it feels a bit like a breath of fresh air.

Some other good phrases to learn are how to say goodbye, please, thank you, and excuse me (and of course any other phrases you’d like to throw in the mix). But picking up a few, easy French phrases really is one of the best things to know before visiting Paris.

11. Purchase entrance tickets in advance for EVERYTHING (or You’ll regret it)

Make sure to book entrance tickets for pretty much anything you want to do way, way in advance. For some attractions, once the tickets are gone online they have no more available and you are just out of luck.

For other attractions (like the Eiffel Tower) they may still have stand tickets available the day of, but you have the potential to wait in a loooong line.

For example, when we visited Paris in August, the standby line for the Eiffel Tower was THREE hours long. In no way did we wait in that line, but the worker let us know that’s how long it’d take to get through… the line was so long it was literally wrapping around the base of the tower.

We were able to get time-slotted tickets for Musée d’Orsay as late as the day before our visit, however, I’d recommend checking weeks in advance for everything. Some attractions (like the Catacombs) you can only purchase starting one week in advance and they go FAST.

So just be sure to look into everything with enough time so that you aren’t disappointed.

12. Google Maps will be your friend

One of the most important ‘first time in Paris tips’ is to make sure you have data available on your phone so that you can use Google Maps or Apple Maps to help you navigate (read my point about e-sims if you have questions about how to get data in Paris). But never has navigating public transit in large cities been so easy as it is with Google Maps.

All you have to do is put your destination into Google Maps, choose ‘transit’ instead of ‘drive’ and it will pull up the top 5+ public transit options with detailed instructions. You can even indicate if you prefer busses or metro etc.

Google Maps will tell you where to walk to catch the bus/metro, which platform to wait at, when the next one is coming, and which stop to take. It really is SO easy and a total game-changer. I can’t imagine having to navigate public transit in new cities without Google Maps.

You can also use Google Maps to find walking directions and of course, driving directions.

13. Be sure to try some PIstachio Flavored things in Paris

Something I noticed during our time in Paris is that Parisians seem to really love pistachio. You know how Americans are obsessed with peanuts/peanut butter.. well in Paris, you can find pistachios in everything.

For example, we picked up delicious cream puffs from Odette (which I highly recommend) and the worker said her favorite flavor was pistachio (which we obviously tried) and I can confirm is delicious.

When we picked up some madeleines to take home to our daughter, we could choose from vanilla, lemon and pistachio (plus a couple of other flavors). And there is even a bakery that has become a bit Insta-famous for their pistachio chocolate bread (or pistachio escargot as they call it).

Rows and rows of brown pastries with colorful circles on top

We saw pistachio macaroons, pistachio ice cream, and even an entire shop dedicated to pistachios called La Pistacherie.

All of this is to say that if you ever have a pistachio item on your menu, maybe give it a go!

14. Bring comfortable shoes for walking

Maybe this is obvious, but just be sure to pack shoes that are comfortable for walking. Paris is large and even with using public transit, you’ll probably still be walking miles (and miles) each day. You may want to throw in an extra pair of shoes just in case your first pair hurts your feet unexpectedly.

Woman stands in dress looking at hanging posters from magazine stand

If you only have room for one pair, be sure to walk extensively in them before your trip to Paris to ensure that they will be comfortable and not give you blisters in any weird places. I personally like to bring Birkenstocks and Sperry’s when I’m traveling.

15. Be Aware of scammers in high touristy areas

Something that I really don’t love is scammers and people illegally selling things (who does? ). I was so unprepared for this on our first visit to Paris that it was very off-putting.

The areas around the base of the Eiffel Tower and Sacré-Cœur are filled with people illegally selling little trinkets and people trying to scam people by participating in their rigged games.

There is also a common scam where people walk around with a paper asking for signatures for some ‘worthwhile cause’ (the one we saw had an image of a wheelchair at the top of the page) and then they demand money from you saying you have to give money if you sign the paper.

Tall brick buildings with red awnings and flowers with white ornate building in the background

Needless to say, the cause is not real and they are just forcing people to give them money. It’s such a bummer this exists, but knowing beforehand will help you feel more confident in just walking away and not engaging with these people.

Also, pickpockets are real. My friend caught a guy with his hand in her husband’s backpack on the Metro. So keep your money/phone and other important docs close at hand and in front of you.

Thankfully crossbody bags are super in style right now which makes it easy to fit in and keep your important things close. I have a crossbody bag like this that I love and I definitely recommend getting something similar.

16. Paris is doable with young kids (if you come prepared)

Visiting Paris with kids is definitely doable, but not for the faint of heart. As I’ve mentioned, our first-ever trip to Paris was with a toddler and a baby. We spent 2 days at Disneyland Paris and 4 days in Paris.

For your Paris itinerary with young kids, I recommend choosing 1-2 top sites to visit a day with plenty of playground stops along the way (and treats, so many treats).

Man pushing a stroller stands in front of glass pyramid

I’ve written a whole guide about visiting Paris with young kids along with a comprehensive guide to playgrounds in Paris near all the top attractions (trust me, you want this).

17. The Champ De Mars by the Eiffel Tower is the Last Place I’d want to picnic

I had such a fairytale image of the Champ de Mars (aka the lawn in front of the Eiffel Tower) in my mind before visiting Paris for the first time. Turns out, it’s a very crowded area where the grass has turned to dirt from all of the people walking through (at least in the summer months).

You see plenty of people valiantly trying to have their picture-perfect picnic on the “lawn” aka the few patches of grass left, but it looks like a pretty sad place for a picnic to me (at least compared to what I had imagined).

A picnic at Luxembourg Gardens sounds much nicer than a Champ de Mars picnic any day.

18. Find a place to enjoy quiet views of the Eiffel Tower

As I’ve mentioned, I’m really not a fan of the area around the Eiffel Tower. You really don’t need to visit it unless you are headed up the tower. The trocadero is okay, but my favorite experiences with the Eiffel Tower are seeing it from further away.

Woman sits at white table in front of glass window with views of Eiffel Tower

By far, my favorite view was from our rooftop at Rayz Eiffel Hotel (you can only use it if you are a guest at the hotel but the rooms are beautiful and the prices are quite reasonable). However, I also loved the view from the Arc de Triomphe and I always enjoyed any other sneak peeks we’d get of the tower as we walked around the city.

You may also consider taking in the views from Montparnasse Tower or the 7th floor of the Women’s building at Printemps Haussmannor.

19. Visit as many boulangeries and Patisseries as possible

I never understood the people raving about French baguettes until I picked up a fresh baguette from a boulangerie in Paris and it all came together. Fresh baguettes in Paris really are amazing. They are soo good and so inexpensive! It’s crazy.

Hands hold up brown bag with baked goods in them in front of a palace.

Along with baguettes, you need to try all the croissants, pain au chocolat, chouquettes, lemon tarts, and macarons, (the list goes on and on). Just try it all! You really can’t miss the boulangeries-most of them have large signs with their name and ‘boulangerie’ written in large letters.

20. There are loads of unique, local tours you can Book on Your Trip to Paris

If you’re someone who loves a good tour (I know I sometimes do) then be sure to spend some time looking into the loads of unique tours you can find in Paris.

Viator is my favorite site to search for tours on. It’s basically a search engine for tours run by various companies but you can see them all in one place and read reviews. It’s pretty great. you can see Viator’s options for tours in Paris here .

Some of the tours I was eyeing included a Paris walking food tour , a macaron cooking class , and these tours of Paris from a vintage car.

21. Purchase an E-Sim to have Quick, Inexpensive data on your Phone

Gone are the days of paying high rates to your cell phone provider to have international data. You also no longer need to even pick up a physical, pay-as-you-go sim card when you land in a new country-it’s gotten even easier.

Large, white arch at dusk surrounded by people

You can purchase an e-sim card online from companies like Airalo for 200+ countries or even entire regions if you’ll be country hopping (think France vs. Europe).

It’s a crazy good deal like $10 for 3 gbs of data and 30 days of use and you can top up when you need. Plus, you can have the e-sim card while still using your normal sim for receiving Wi-Fi messages and calls from your contacts.

It’s important to note that you must have an unlocked phone in order to install an e-sim. If you are not sure if your phone is unlocked or if you need it to be unlocked, you can contact your carrier and let them know you will be traveling internationally and would like to use an e-sim. I’ve heard they will unlock it for you (my phone is unlocked. so I’ve never had that issue).

22. Don’t add things to your itinerary just because someone says ‘You have to do it’

I think there can be a lot of pressure when we travel around HAVING to see and do certain things. But if you’re not a museum person, don’t feel pressured to visit museums! If you’re not into food, don’t feel pressured into trying escargot!

You’ll enjoy your time in Paris so much more if you focus on the activities that interest YOU not the activities that interest everyone else.

Woman stands in front of painting on the wall

We still haven’t visited the Louvre (besides walking around outside, which is a lovely area btw). But we have visited Musée d’Orsay for the Monet and Van Gogh paintings and the huge clock that looks out over the city.

Plus we’ve also visited the Musée de l’Orangerie which has two circular, white rooms that feature multiple panels of Monet’s water lilies. And we are totally content with that decision.

Along those same lines, I’d say if you aren’t interested in going up the Eiffel Tower, then just steer clear of that area. It’s more fun seeing the Eiffel Tower from a distance anyway.

That being said, some people LOVE the Louvre, and some people LOVE trying every new food that comes their way. You do you.

23. A Seine River Cruise is a great way to get an overview of the city (and to get off your feet)

I always love a good river or harbor cruise. We’ve done them all over Europe including in Amsterdam, Copenhagen , Bruges etc. So, of course, we also took a Seine River cruise in Paris . Hopping on a Seine River cruise is one of my best tips for Paris to get some time off your feet.

There are all kinds of Seine River cruises to choose from- a 1-hour river cruise with guided commentary , champagne tastings on the Seine , a Seine Cruise with a crepe tasting before or after , or even combo tickets with museum entrances + a Seine River Cruise .

travelling to paris advice

However, if you really want to slow down and have a memorable experience, then check out this 2.5-hour Seine River Dinner Cruise . It includes a gourmet, 3-course dinner and even live entertainment! The reviews are fabulous and it sounds like a really nice experience.

If you’re interested in the dinner cruise but are looking for a less expensive option, then check out the Seine River lunch cruise – it sounds very similar!

We’ve taken the basic Seine River Cruise which had live guides onboard. It was a relaxing boat trip where we got to see some iconic sights from the water like the Eiffel Tower, Musee d’ Orsay. and Notre Dame while learning a bit of history along the way. If you have time, I do recommend booking some sort of Seine River Cruise.

24. Come prepared for rain (even in the summer)

It rains in Paris 171 days a year and (from what I understand) the rainfall is pretty evenly distributed throughout all seasons.

We visited Paris in both August and September and experienced both super hot sunny days along with days requiring jackets with a bit of rain.

So, even if the weather is looking pretty good pre-trip, you may want to throw in an umbrella or a light rain jacket in your luggage just in case.

25. Gallettes and quiches are great, inexpensive meal options

If you’re looking for quick, inexpensive food then galettes and quiche are great options. If you’re unsure, galettes are basically savory crepes but folded a little differently and made with buckwheat.

Round, blue table with trays with food on them

You can find them at creperies throughout the city, however, there is one street in Paris known for its creperies called Rue de Montparnasse. We’re talking 10+ creperies on one street.

We walked Rue de Montparnasse one morning hoping to pick up some crepes/galettes but learned the hard way that the creperies on this road don’t open until 11:30 a.m. or 12 p.m. so plan accordingly.

Hand hold small plate with quiche in front of artists painting outside

We also ate a lot of quiches (think delicious egg pie) that you can find at most boulangeries along with classic French baguette sandwiches.

26. Take advantage of the public water fountains

Coming from the US, we are used to finding public drinking fountains and water-filling stations all over the place. It can get a little tricky to find free water in Europe, but Paris thankfully has 1200 drinking fountains throughout the city!

Man fills up water bottle from large, ornate green water fountain

The fountains range from beautiful, ornate structures to sleek, modern fountains. The best part is that the city of Paris has integrated all of the drinking fountains into Google Maps. All you have to do is search ‘fountain’ when you are out and about and you’ll find the closest one!

If that doesn’t work, you can see a map of the Paris drinking fountains here .

27. Consider taking a day trip from Paris

We are a Disney-loving family so we’ve visited Disneyland Paris on each of our trips to Paris. The park is just a 45-minute RER train ride from Paris city center making it pretty easy to get to. I even have a great guide on everything you need to know to take a day trip to Paris Disneyland . Be sure to check it out!

travelling to paris advice

If you are visiting with kids I’d recommend spending a night or two in Serris (the neighborhood just outside of the park). But if you are traveling sans kids and really don’t want to switch accommodations, you could make a day trip work.

Be sure to check out my guide to visiting Disneyland Paris if you decide to head that way.

Besides Disneyland Paris, there are quite a few guided day trip options from Paris which would be super nice and convenient. You can find day trips to the Palace of Versailles , Mont Saint Michel in Normandy , or even guided day trips to Bruges Belgium !

Check out these other posts, I know you’ll love them:

  • The Only Itinerary You Need to Spend Two Days in Paris
  • How to Plan a Day Trip to Disneyland Paris + 2 Example Itineraries
  • The Ultimate Guide to Visiting Paris with a Toddler: Things to do + Top Tips
  • 10 Fun Playgrounds in Paris Near Top Paris Attractions
  • 15 Essential Tips for Disneyland Paris Planning

And those are all of the things I think you need to know before traveling to Paris for the first time. I hope these tips make your first time visiting Paris absolutely dreamy. Let me know if you have any questions in the comments below- I’ll be sure to get back to you!

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A travel writer's ultimate travel guide to Paris, France

  • Paris is the City of Light, a destination steeped in style, culture, history, and romance.
  • Insider created a comprehensive travel guide for the best places to go, stay, and eat in Paris.
  • Visit Insider's hub for travel guides, tips, and recommendations .

Insider Today

Paris is one of the world's most fascinating cities with iconic monuments, picturesque views, charming neighborhoods, and gastronomic spoils. Paris is so jam-packed with culture that visitors often recount the city as a living museum. 

While touristy experiences in Paris are pleasing in their own right (see: a stroll along the Seine or a trip via riverboat), I've been visiting Paris for the past 18 years since marrying a Frenchman and through my work as a travel writer, and prefer to float around the city's delightful neighborhoods methodically. Because when you get to know Paris' arrondissements, which you can think of as individual neighborhoods with distinctive vibes, you'll understand Paris for its more distinguished ethos.

But traversing through the City of Light can be overwhelming, even for experienced travelers. With Insider's guide, you'll leave Paris with a well-developed sense of what the city and its people have to offer beyond the average first-time experience. 

→ 6 of the best ways to get to and around Paris, according to experts

→ i've traveled to paris regularly for the last 18 years. i think these 14 hotels are as magical as the city itself., → i'm a new yorker who visits paris every year. here are 11 restaurants where i've had some of the best meals of my life., → 5 secret things to do in paris, plus 8 of the most scenic neighborhoods with the best places to shop  , → here are the latest rules for us visitors to paris, france, plus tips on the best time of year to visit.

travelling to paris advice

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Anna Everywhere

13 Practical Tips for Visiting Paris: How to Avoid Mistakes

13 Practical Tips for Visiting Paris: How to Avoid Mistakes

Paris is a great city that can never disappoint. You can keep on visiting Paris  again and again and there is always something fantastic to experience, something to see that you haven’t seen before and eat food you haven’t tried yet.

The overwhelming amount of things on offer can be a real challenge for first-time visitors. That’s why everyone needs some practical tips for visiting Paris in order to avoid mistakes.

Why You Should Listen to Me? I’ve been to Paris on several occasions, stayed in many different areas and studied in Paris as well. Let me tell you: each time was different. Despite spending a decent amount of time in Paris I still haven’t seen everything and I also made a few mistakes on the way.

Now I’m confident to give you the best Paris travel tips that will help you avoid some unpleasant disaster.

Tips for Visiting Paris

1. don’t go to paris just for a weekend.

When someone tells me that they’re going to spend just 3 days in Paris I feel like they’re most likely not going to love it. I mean, it’s possible to have a great time but if you do it right and prioritize what do you want to see. During such a short visit most tourists head to see the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame, Louvre and some other tourist attractions, and therefore experience crowds, long lines and not the real local Paris.

Take your pick and spend some time to actually enjoy these things instead of rushing through everything. I’m not telling you not to see these famous landmarks, but in order to fully feel the Paris vibe, you need to stay in the city way longer.

There are also so many amazing day trips to take from Paris. You can do them on your own by renting a car ( compare car rental prices here ) or book an organized tour. To name a few options:

  • Vaux le Vicomte & Fontainebleau Castles  (a great alternative to crowded Versailles)
  • Loire Valley Castles
  • Mont St-Michel
  • Auvers Sur Oise
  • and much more…

travelling to paris advice

2. Eiffel Tower Isn’t a Very Glamorous Experience

Almost everyone is dreaming of getting to the top of the Eiffel Tower. But the moment you start approaching the tower you might realize that it’s not very romantic, as it’s surrounded by a ton of visitors and annoying vendors. The place is crowded, and lines take forever no matter when you visit.

It’s hard to find a romantic spot unless you book a dinner on top of the Eiffel Tower . It’s something you do once, as it’s not the best fine dining you’ve ever had, but again – you’re doing it for the experience.

Again, you won’t like the Eiffel Tower if you just stand in the crowds. However, if you climb the stairs behind the Croatian Embassy you may be able to find a quiet spot overlooking the tower. The view is gorgeous and definitely worth it, especially at night when the tower starts blinking!

Paris Travel Tips

Similar to the Empire State Building in NYC, going to the top of the tower is overpriced and not as worth it. I mean, you probably want to see a panorama of Paris with the actual Eiffel Tower in it, right?

I recommend you to see the city from up high from the top of the Tour Montparnasse , Arc de Triomphe, or even a carousel in Tuileries, and actually have the Eiffel Tower in your view.

3. Paris Doesn’t Have to Be Expensive

Before going to Paris friends were warning me that the city was going to destroy my wallet and almost every person on any travel forum was telling me the same. But, Paris does not necessarily have to be a city that sucks all the money out of pockets and bank accounts.

tips for visiting Paris

Paris isn’t cheap, but it isn’t more expensive than other European cities. In fact, visiting London or Amsterdam will cost you way more money.

You can also benefit from locals’ knowledge who can point you out in the right direction and that includes finding the best deals and how not to get into any tourist traps.

4. Stay in Central Location

I cannot emphasize this more! Pinning down the perfect place to stay depends on budget and location, but quite often the second one is way more important as you think. Paris is divided into 20 neighborhoods or arrondissements and everything is being referred to 12th, 18th, etc.

Before booking your hotel check whether the area is safe and close to the places you want to visit. If you’re in Paris for a very limited time don’t choose a place on the edge of town, as you definitely don’t want to spend hours commuting in order to save a few bucks.

More on Where to Stay in Paris & Arrondissements Map

travelling to paris advice

5. Parisians Eat Dinner Late

Parisians tend to eat dinner around 8 or 9:00 PM. Many good restaurants won’t be open until 7:00ish PM, as they close between lunchtime and dinnertime.

This is especially important if you’re traveling with kids , as they need to be awake to eat dinner basically.

My personal recommendation for a typical Parisian restaurant would be a historic  Polidor Restaurant founded in 1845. The interior of the restaurant is basically unchanged for over 100 years. They have great escargots  and steak tartare if you want to try some French snails and raw beef mixed with spices and an egg.

Woody Allen used  Polidor as one of the locations for his time travel fantasy, Midnight in Paris, so who knows, maybe you’ll meet Zelda Fitzgerald there too. IMPORTANT: This restaurant is a cash-only establishment.

If you’re planning some Michelin star dining keep in mind that places are booked weeks in advance, especially in the summer.

practical tips for visiting Paris

6. Don’t Think That Paris is a City Just for Lovers

While many romantic comedies portray Paris as the city for lovers, with boyfriends proposing in front of the Eiffel Tower and taking girls on romantic walks along the Seine, this image can often be very far away from reality.

Paris is a great place to travel solo, as you can people watch and appreciate everything in a different way you would with your partner.

You can also easily meet people in Paris too as there are many solo travelers in the city and many families as well – my kids have a blast every time they go !

travelling to paris advice

7. Don’t Be Afraid of Using Metro

Metro in Paris is very easy to use. It might be slightly intimidating at first due to the huge amount of different lines, but once you figure it out you’ll use it all the time .

Keep your Paris metro ticket until you’ve exited the metro system at your final destination because the police might be checking your tickets inside the station.

If you’re planning on using the metro you can buy a carnet (pack of 10 tickets) to save some money, though if you plan on staying for longer than a week, you may want to look into the longer-term passes (Navigo Pass).

On many Metro lines, the doors to the train do not open unless you press a button or lift a handle. Remember it if you don’t want to miss your station or look funny.

My tip: While taxis in Paris are expensive, Uber is definitely affordable and I recommend doing it at least once so you can see Parisian streets during your ride. Just don’t try to take it to the airport as it would take longer than the RER train and cost you 5 times as much… on top of getting stuck in traffic for a very long time.

visiting Paris

8. Paris Closes Up in August

Parisians are used to taking a whole month off in the summer months, and as a result, the majority of businesses close in August. Tourist attractions are obviously open and very full of people because of the summer, but many local boulangeries , private stores, and restaurants might be closed.

If you’re opting for a mixture of local and tourist experiences, it might not be the right time to visit. Personally, I’m not the biggest fan, as I like to interact with locals anywhere I go.

9. You Don’t Have to Dress Up in Fancy Clothes

Almost every article on tips for traveling to Paris is going to tell you to dress up very fancy. While I love to wear cute dresses on my travels , it’s not a requirement in Paris.

They almost make it seem like you’re going to be judged for wearing a pair of sneakers or casual jeans (by no means I say you should wear sweatpants – we all know people love to do this in the US).

But, I’d say not to overdo it and there’s no need to try to dress like a supermodel if it’s not who you are.

While I might like wearing my high heels all day you might find it uncomfortable and that’s totally all right. Dress in a chic and simple style, so you can enjoy walking around and not worry about your clothes – just like French people do.

Rue Cremieux

10. Catacombs Aren’t Off the Path Attraction

Various guides to Paris tell you to go off the beaten path and visit the Catacombs – home to the remains of over 6 million people with lots of piles of skulls and bones.

I must say to you that whoever wrote all these guides must have never visited the catacombs because they’re far away from being off the tourist track.

While there are many places that tourists barely visit this isn’t one of them. In fact, I tried to visit them 3 times and every time I ended up giving up because the line was so long or the place was closed. 

The place is amazing, but under any circumstances don’t think that you’re going to be only one of a few tourists there. In fact, I highly recommend purchasing skip the line tickets to the catacombs as you’ll be waiting forever otherwise.

11. Dedicate a Whole Day to Versaille & Don’t Go Without a Skip-the-Line Ticket

Versailles, Normandy, Mont Saint Michel, Giverny, or the Loire Valley are only a few incredible places to visit beyond Paris. However, especially if you’re visiting France during the summer the palace can get VERY busy.

Combining two places (for instance Giverny & Versailles) in one day may seem tempting price-wise, it’s not the best idea. You’ll be rushing and running (literally!) through everything and only get frustrated.

I heard many horror stories from people who went to Versailles before it even opened and stood in a line for 2-3h in the sunlight waiting to get it. By the time they got inside, they had to run through the palace to make it back to the bus on time.

Don’t try to do everything and prioritize what do you want to do. I suggest you allow yourself a full day to explore Versailles and purchasing skip the line tickets , its gardens and especially the Petit Trianon. It’s a great place that can’t be missed and you don’t want to be rushed through it.

Hall of Mirrors, Versailles

12. Paris Has More Awesome Museums Than Just Louvre

The Museum Pass isn’t only going to save you money, but also time. You won’t need to stand in the long line to every museum and you could skip the ticket line at both Versailles and the Louvre – the longest lines to wait in.

If you want to include other attractions in your pass you could look up Paris Pass.

Note:  If you’re an EU citizen under 25 you can get to museums around Paris for free. Same if you’re a student.

Speaking of Louvre… if you’re not an art lover and trying to go to Louvre just to see the Mona Lisa: DON’T! Don’t be one of the tourists who go in, takes a photo of the Mona Lisa, and leaves.

The crowds in that room are horrendous and most people aren’t actually even seeing the painting, but just taking selfies with it.

There is a beautiful collection of Dutch 17th-century art (my favorite) that’s almost always completely empty, so you can see it in peace.

Remember that the Louvre is closed on Tuesdays and the Musée d’Orsay is closed on Mondays. These museums normally close at 6 PM, but a few times a week they’re open until 10 PM.

Not many people know about it, so it’s way more peaceful to explore. Louvre does it on Wednesdays and Fridays, while d’Orsay does it on Thursdays.

Best Museums in Paris to Visit:

The  Centre Pompidou  – If you’re into modern art.

Musée Rodin  – Beautiful sculpture gardens, so do it during a sunny day.

Musée de la Magie  (Museum of Magic) – Off the path unusual exhibitions.

Musée d’Histoire de la Médecine  (Museum of the History of Medicine) – A museum I enjoyed a lot.

Chateau d’Auvers-sur-Oise  – Right outside of Paris, the best interactive museum I’ve ever visited. If you want to feel like a real impressionist, do make a trip there.

practical tips for visiting Paris

13. Don’t Visit Paris Without Travel Insurance

A lot of people think travel insurance is an unnecessary expense. While in places like Southeast Asia it’s cheap to pay for things out of pocket, this isn’t the case in Europe.

Travel insurance will refund your medical costs and will get you home for free in you injure yourself. 

The easiest and most reliable travel insurance is  Safety Wing . Get it before your trip to avoid unnecessary troubles that might ruin your holidays!

Best Travel Movies about Paris:

  • Midnight in Paris (directed by Woody Allen)
  • Amelie (directed by Jean-Pierre Jeunet)
  • 2 Days in Paris (directed by Julie Delpy)
  • An American in Paris (directed by Vincente Minnelli)
  • Three Colors: Blue (directed by Krzysztof Kieslowski)
  • Marie Antoinette (directed by Sofia Coppola)

Best Travel Books about Paris:

  • The Hunchback of Notre Dame (by Victor Hugo) also a Disney movie
  • Bel-Ami (by Guy de Monpassant) also a motion picture starring Robert Pattinson & Uma Thurman
  • Sarah’s Key (by Tatiana de Rosnay) – also a motion picture starring Kristen Scott-Thomas  (my favorite one!)
  • Marie Antoinette (by Antonia Fraser)
  • Les Miserables (by Victor Hugo)
  • The Dud Avocado (by Elaine Dundy)

best tips for visiting Paris

Paris is one of the greatest cities on earth. If you follow my tips for visiting Paris and do it the right way, you should have a great experience. You will make you want to come back for more!

READ MORE ABOUT PARIS:

Where to Stay in Paris

Day Trip to Mont St Michel from Paris

Day Trip to Loire Valley Castles from Paris

Day Trip to Vaux le Vicomte Castle from Paris

Day Trip to Giverny from Paris

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Thursday 28th of April 2022

Thanks so much for the information. We're going this summer.

Wednesday 22nd of January 2020

Thank you for sharing this amazing content, I really appreciate your effort.

Saturday 14th of December 2019

Amazing guide, thank you. I plan to visit Paris next year, thank you for the advices!

Sunday 22nd of September 2019

Paris is wonderful, just try to avoid Hotel Westminster. I booked their Deluxe 25m room and received 11,8m room (N. 114) with dirty bathroom instead. France....In any other country this would be unimaginable, but at Hotel Westminster Paris it is a norm. Bait and switch without apologies or price reduction for much cheaper room. You have been warned dear travelers.

Albert Brown

Tuesday 13th of August 2019

Amazing guide thankyou. I am planning to visit Paris early next year and I am bookmarking this article for my future reference.

Happy to Wander

100+ Helpful Paris Travel Tips & Tricks: Must-Knows Before You Visit Paris!

Last Updated: February 19, 2023

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travelling to paris advice

First-timers who visit Paris will usually come to one of two common conclusions …

First – that Paris is the most undeniably wonderful place in the world, where the streets smell like croissants and every step is a cheese-coated dream.

The second (perhaps more common) conclusion, is that Paris is the worst, most overrated city on Earth, where the streets stink of smoke, sewage & the shattered dreams of starry-eyed tourists.

But what if I told you that both conclusions are valid?

In fact, what if I told you the difference between experiencing one vs. the other lies purely in avoiding a few key mistakes?

travelling to paris advice

Save this list of Paris travel tips for later!

You’ll be very glad you did.

Trust me, from a “meh” reaction on my first visit to now worshipping the City of Light, I’ve spread my time over countless visits & an internship based there, learning through trial and error what it takes to truly enjoy and adore Paris.

Without any hesitation, I now say that Paris is one of my favourite cities in the world.

I honestly love re-visiting and discovering new parts of it, a byproduct of which is, I’ve successfully made pretty much every mistake under the Parisian sun.

Today, I’d like to share the wisdom I’ve accumulated through an epic list of Paris tips and tricks for your visit. It’s a long one, but I hope you find every word helpful!

Rue du Croissant sign in Paris

Paris Travel Planning Tips

Let’s start with some planning-related Paris tips to help you with flights, booking hotels in Paris, choosing dates, the best times to visit Paris, etc.

Learn the tricks to getting cheap flights TO Paris

If you haven’t booked your flights to Paris yet, be sure to check out my guide on how to get the cheapest flights to Europe . I promise it’ll save you hundreds of dollars on your flight!

View from the plane window flying over Paris

Plan your Paris trip for off-peak periods

“Paris is always a good idea” – said every cliched Instagram caption ever.

Sorry to burst your wanderlusty bubble, but Paris is not always a good idea… certainly not in peak season.

So when is the best time to visit Paris?

My trips have all been spaced out over a few different months, so I feel like I can answer this quite well.

  • April in Paris (when all the flowers begin to bloom!) is simply magical
  • May-June offer the plus of decent weather minus the sweltering summer crowds
  • December is also fun, because (as I’m sure you can expect), Paris at Christmas time is amazing

Trees in bloom in Jardins des Tuileries in Paris, France

Know the double edged sword of Paris in August

Visiting Paris in August is a controversial topic.

For some, it’s the best time to visit because the locals are all vacationing out of town and it’s a lot “quieter”.

For others, it’s the worst time to visit because it’s ridiculously hot, the city is only full of tourists, and most things are randomly closed.

So, keep those pros and cons in mind to better evaluate if Paris in August is a good idea for you.

I’ve been in Paris during August, and while it’s fine if you don’t intend on hitting up all the touristy sights, it doesn’t make a great month for sightseeing/being a cheesy tourist, mainly because you’ll be standing in queues all day long.

Place des Vosges in le Marais in Paris

Consider spending Christmas in Paris

I already mentioned this Paris tip above, but it’s worth repeating.

While people often think of visiting Paris in the summer, I have to say my winter trips have been among my favourite.

Christmas in Paris is its own special brand of magical, with wonderful decor and Christmas markets around the city, and a fraction of the usual summer crowds.

I highly recommend a winter trip in Paris if you want to beat the worst of the crowds… and photograph fun glittery bears!

travelling to paris advice

Going to Paris for shopping? Go for Les Soldes

Sales in France are serious state business, in that they are heavily regulated and only permitted twice a year – once in the summer (June), and once in the winter (January).

So, if you’re hoping to find luxury brands (or any brands really) in Paris at a steep discount, you should organize your visit for one of these times. Learn more here.

Printemps department store in Paris, France

Plan your trip for minimum four days

If you are currently planning your first visit to Paris, I strongly encourage you to plan for at least 4 days in the city.

This isn’t to say that you can’t enjoy just a day or a weekend in Paris, but four days is really a minimum for getting a feel for the city. settling in a bit, and actually enjoying your time vs. sightseeing your face off until you cry.

The bonus of adding more days is of course you can also include some quintessential day trips like to Disneyland Paris or Versailles.

The "sinking house" of Montmartre, Paris

Book your hotel well in advance

Paris is one of the busiest tourist cities in the world, which means the best hotels (and most affordable ones) book up quickly, especially during peak season.

The solution to this Parisian hotel hunger games? Book early!

I know that committing to a hotel early can feel scary, but if you use Booking.com , you can find hundreds of hotels that offer free reservations and free cancellations up until a certain point.

This means you can get some peace of mind without putting down any deposits or committing to a hard date until much later.

Window view in Paris

Understand the the hotel star system in Europe is different from North America

I grew up with a North American hotel system where 5* meant opulent luxury and 1* meant run for the hills, unless you want to lose your kidneys.

The star ratings in Europe are a bit different. Instead of stars coinciding to quality on a scale of 1-5, the stars actually correspond to a checklist of amenities/requirements.

SO, you can get some amazing 2* properties that are simply smaller and don’t really have things like a spa or pool, while also finding crappy 4 or 5* properties that have that rating just because they’re big and have amenities like fitness centers and valets (i.e. many chains).

Learn more about the criteria for star ratings here.

If you're looking for an amazing hotel to stay at in Paris, check out this full review of the amazing Hotel le Pavillon. #hotel #paris #travel

Book a central hotel

Parisian hotels can be expensive, so I understand the temptation of a hotel that seems just slightly outside of the center at a fraction of the cost.

But trust me – if you are visiting Paris for the first time, you’ll want somewhere central.

And by central, I mean you want a hotel close-ish to the sights you plan to visit. When you’re on vacation, time very much is money, and the last thing you want is to spend half your time in the Metro trying to escape the labryinth of stairs and judgey locals.

The extra splurge is worth it! Trust me!

Avoid airport hotels

This is similar to the point above, but PLEASE, unless you are flying into Paris late and need a place to crash or are flying out early in the morning, do not book a stay at any Paris airport hotels.

Again, I know it’s tempting because they always show up as the cheapest option, but there’s a reason for that.

Paris airport hotels are literally nowhere near the main sights in Paris, unless you consider the scenic motorway a main sight. Getting to and from the city center is also very expensive, so all those savings will be negated anyway.

Paris airport entrance

Consider AirBNB, but be careful when booking

AirBNB is often recommended as an affordable accommodation option in Paris, and I have used it a few times, but there are some things you should know before you book one.

I’ve spent an embarrassing amount of time looking at AirBNBs in Paris, so I’ve developed keen eye for “AirBNB traps”.

Besides the usual must-knows before booking an AirBNB like vetting reviews, here are some AirBNB considerations to look out for in Paris specifcially:

Photos of landmarks instead of the actual properties: often rental apartments will lure you in with a glittering photo of the Eiffel Tower, and include only 1-2 photos of the actual apartment. Make sure you click through to see ALL the photos so you have a better idea of what the space actually looks like. “Eiffel Tower view” can sometimes mean you see the tip from your bathroom window!

Apartments with no elevator: It’s very common in Paris for older, more historical buildings to not have an elevator at all. This can spell disaster if you’re travelling with big bags and need to get up 7 flights of stairs on your own (true story!). So, double check in the listing and in reviews that there is an elevator if you need one.

Apartments with a shared bathroom: Many of the cheaper AirBNB rentals in Paris are “chambres de bonne”, which are top floor micro-studios once used as accommodation for maids/household workers. Most of these won’t have a toilet in the apartment, but rather a shared one at the end of the hall. Often this detail will be buried in the listing though.

Generally speaking, if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

Make sure you read lots of reviews (not just the first page) as sometimes it can take a while to discover some of the more important potential issues like noisy neighbours, noisy neighbourhood, etc.

Overhead shot of a winding staircase in Paris

Know your arrondissements

Paris is split into 20 “arrondissements” which are administrative areas that each have their own town hall, and elected officials.

Locals will refer to arrondissements by number, e.g. “I live in the 18th”, and most travel guides will also tell you where things are based on their arrondissement.

For first-time visitors, tying to grasp the difference between these arrondissements can be difficult (I still struggle after so many visits!) but it’s not really that important for you to know all of them by heart.

Think of arrondissements as an organizational tool, and keep in mind that an arrondissement can encompass multiple historical neighbourhoods, so you shouldn’t get them confused.

For example, many visitors to Paris want to stay in Montmartre for their first visit, which is located in the 18th arrondissement.

However, the 18th also includes other neighbourhoods like Goutte d’Or and Pigalle which are aesthetically VERY different from Montmartre. So, in this case, simply booking a hotel in the 18th wouldn’t serve your desired purpose without doing a bit more research. You feel me?

Parisian cafe Le Consulat in Montmartre

As a tourist in Paris, you should definitely aim to stay in one of the 20 central arrondissements, but which one is best depends on a lot of different factors.

If your main goal is sightseeing, then your pick is easy! In 2020 , Arrondissements 1-4 were combined into a single administrative area known as “Paris Central”.

As a tourist, this is as central as it gets, and where you’ll find some of Paris’ top attractions like the Louvre, Tuileries Garden, Centre Pompidou, Notre Dame, etc.

The downside is these are touristy neighbourhoods and you won’t find as much “local life” as in other neighbourhoods, especially in the evening.

Want to learn more about arrondissements? Read this guide from my friend Sophie, who lives in Paris!

travelling to paris advice

Don’t forget travel insurance

I personally believe that travel insurance is a must for every trip, but especially in tourist cities like Paris, where pickpockets are a dime a dozen.

Trust me, when visiting a dream destination like Paris, the peace of mind is worth the cost!

Click here to check rates with WorldNomads.

Download helpful apps before you go

There are plenty of apps you can download that will make your time in Paris 100x easier.

I’ve previously written a full list of the best travel apps for Europe so be sure to check that out, but here are some especially good options for Paris:

  • Moovit: Great for public transport
  • Google Translate: A must for translating signs/menus on the go. Download French to be used offline if you can
  • The Fork: Great for making restaurant reservations

Phone showing apps

Use Omio to search transport options if you’re headed elsewhere

If Paris isn’t your only destination on the trip, then another helpful app/website to know is Omio , which allows you to compare and book transport options from Point A to Point B.

That means you can compare buses, trains and flights for your route at the same time, making it much easier to find the best option in terms of cost, speed, etc.

Train machines at Paris Est Station

Paris Metro Tips and General Tricks for Transport/Getting Around

Getting around Paris can be really daunting for a first-time visitor, so here are all my best Paris tips related to getting around:

Use public transport to save a lot of money

Public transport in Paris is cheap, convenient and relatively easy to use once you get the hang of it.

Beyond (maybe) getting a taxi to/from the airport to deal with your bags, you should take advantage of public transportation as much as possible during your trip.

Not only is it a great way to save money, it gives you a taste of what Paris is like for the millions of people who call it home (crowds and BO included!)

travelling to paris advice

But don’t use the Metro if you’re carrying a lot of luggage

The Metro is full of stairs and confusing twists/turns… not to mention pickpockets in busy areas who are looking for easy targets like new arrivals.

If it’s your first time in Paris, and ESPECIALLY if you are carrying bags that are more than you can comfortably carry, avoid the Metro and save it for when you’re travelling light.

travelling to paris advice

Book an airport transfer for minimal stress

Paris is one of the few cities in the world where I’d highly highly recommend booking an airport transfer, especially if you’re travelling with a lot of bags, a big group, or as a family.

Navigating Paris’ public transport is a daunting endeavour when you’re new to the city, and are carrying LOTS of bags.

Paris’ train stations and transport hubs are also prime hang out spots for pickpockets and scam artists, who usually target those who have clearly just arrived… so if you want to get your vacation started on the right foot, then definitely pre-book an airport transfer.

For the least stressful option, consider booking a Welcome Pickups transfer, which is a set price, includes an English speaking driver who monitors your flight arrival time, and offers free cancellations up until 24 hours before.

This saves you the hassle of trying to get a taxi/navigate the language barriers to do so.

Top of a Parisian taxi with sign

Do NOT rent a car

Rental cars in Paris are more stress than they’re worth.

Trust me: public transport and Ubers can take you anywhere you need to go.

The only time when I can imagine a rental car might come in handy is if you are planning for a long road trip after, or intend to do day tips not easily accessible by public transport.

In these cases, I’d recommend booking your car only for the dates when you’ll be outside Paris, because within the city, you really won’t need it.

Thinking about renting a car for your trip? Here is my guide on how much a rental car costs in Europe.

Orange car on a road in Paris

Buy Metro Tickets in packs of 10

I love saving money on my travels, so you best believe I know the best ways to save money on public transport in Paris!

One of the biggest mistakes that people make is they buy transit tickets separately, but here’s a trick: you can actually buy tickets in packets of ten and save a LOT of money.

The best thing is, you can split them with others (you literally just get ten single tickets) so if you are travelling with friends or just plan to use the Metro ten times, this is a smart money-saving option.

Paris Metro sign from inside the car

Hold onto your tickets throughout your ride

Another key Paris travel tip that many visitors don’t know? When using the Metro in Paris, hang on to your single tickets throughout the ride and make sure you don’t get them mixed up.

This is important because sometimes they will have ticket controls where they scan your ticket to make sure it’s valid (to catch gate hoppers and those abusing the system). They sometimes even have these controls at the top of the escalator after your ride is finished… so make sure you don’t throw them away!

BONUS TIP: I would also throw away or fold up old tickets once they’re used so you don’t get confused!

Metro car really congested? Move in

Often the most congested parts of a Metro car are right at the entrance and you’ll find a lot more breathing room if you move in a little.

Usually that accordion space between Metro cars is a relatively airy place to stand (so long as your balance is good!)

People waiting for the Metro at a station in Paris, France

Let everyone exit the Metro car before you get in

This is mainly just a Paris etiquette tip, but there’s no surer way to get Parisians to hate you than when you barge into the Metro before everyone has had a chance to get out.

Avoid the Metro in Rush Hour

Peak periods for the Parisian Metro are 8-10am and 5-7pm – pretty much any time people are rushing to or from work.

Unless you enjoy packing into a hot Metro Car with every surface of your body touching every surface of everyone else’s body, don’t do it. It’s not worth it!

Turquoise Metro Car in Paris leaving the platform

Walk as much as you can

When in Paris as a tourist, walking is the best way to get around. Hands down.

Not only does this mean saving money on the Metro and avoiding the unique um, fragrance of Parisian public transport… you also get to see the most incredible “mundane” sights of the city and enjoy the atmosphere a lot more.

There’s far more to Paris than just the most famous Parisian landmarks , and walking around is the best way to see the city’s “non-touristic” side.

Pont des Arts in Paris

Know that jaywalking is weirdly okay here

I live in Munich , where jaywalking is considered as terrible a crime as wasting beer.

Such is not the case in Paris. In fact, jaywalking is just as Parisian as the Moulin Rouge or the Iron Lady herself.

In fact, I imagine most French children are simply born jaywalking straight out of the womb.

If you feel the need to jaywalk at any point, just know that it’s fine here.

I can still remember being floored the first time I travelled with a French friend of mine. He sped through the streets of Seville, jaywalking at every opportunity. When I asked him why, he simply told me “I am French. I do not wait!”

So, you know, consider it a cultural experience.

Man walking across the street in a narrow Parisian street

Easily rent a bike

While you can of course book a bike tour in Paris like this one, there’s a super simple way to rent a bike in Paris whenever you need one – through an app called Velib’ , which allows bike-sharing across the city.

You simply pick up a bike when you see one, use it, then drop it off at one of thousands of docking points around the city.

Click here for a guide on how to use it.

Easily rent a scooter

For a transport option that’s even more fun, Paris also has many companies that offer e-scooter rentals that are activated through an app.

Here is a guide on how to use them.

Lime scooters in paris in front of a street mural

Paris Tips for Attractions

Odds are, if you’re visiting Paris, sightseeing your face off is part of the plan. So, here are some of my best Paris travel tips related to sightseeing, attractions and itinerary planning.

Make a sightseeing plan

Okay, listen, I get it: there’s nothing more romantic than the thought of dancing around Paris spontaneously, surrendering yourself to the whims of the day, but I’ll bet you a million macarons that this method will lead to you surrendering yourself to the worst queues in the history of mankind.

One thing you need to know when you visit Paris is that it’s a city that requires some strategy, especially for a first-timer, so make sure you write down a list of all the places you want to visit in advance, and create a loose plan for your days.

Tourist map of Paris with a notebook on top and a phone

Don’t overstuff your itinerary

Okay, I get it: you’re in Paris and you want to make the most of it.

But do you know what is a total recipe for disaster?

Having three days in Paris and spending all of them locked in dark, sweaty museums just because your guidebook said so.

Sure, while attractions are great, you need to realize that Paris is a huge city with a ton to offer, spread over a bunch of diverse neighbourhoods.

It’s impossible to cover “all of Paris” in a few days, so it’s better to take out a few things and have a light, breezy itinerary with room for flexibility, lest you get afflicted with Paris burnout.

Typical Parisian street with the Eiffel Tower in the background with a pink sunset

Buy your tickets in advance

Paris is a hugely popular city with most attractions offering some kind of “skip the line” ticket option. The best part is you can easily get your tickets online.

I love Get Your Guide for that because their booking portal makes everything super quick and easy. Click here to browse all the cheap options for Paris.

travelling to paris advice

Consider a Museum Pass

If you intend to visit many big attractions when you visit Paris, consider buying a Museum Pass.  

I got one of these on my first Paris visit and it saved me SO much money and time because it comes with priority access to 60+ attractions including big ones like the Louvre, Orsay and Centre Pompidou.

Glass pyramid installation in the courtyard of the Louvre Museum in Paris, France

Wake up EARLY

The morning hours are the best time to explore Paris. If you want to be extra intense like me, I’m talking sunrise-early.

Trust me, nothing beats enjoying Paris at sunrise. The entire city feels empty, like it’s just yours (and the other eager photographers who had the same idea of course).

If I were you, I would pick the #1 attraction you’re most excited for, and plan to see it as soon as it opens, with some sunrise explorations beforehand.

Sunrise in Paris with the Eiffel Tower in view

Plan around attraction Free Days

If you’re travelling on a budget, there are tons of excellent free things to do in Paris.

One of them is visiting some of the city’s most iconic museums… for free!

Generally speaking, the first Sunday of the month is a good day to plan around, as many of the city’s top museums are free, including…

  • The Orangerie
  • Centre Pompidou

The Louvre is also free on the 1st Saturday evening of the month.

You can catch a full list of museum free days here.

Tourists admiring the clock face in the orsay Museum of Paris, France

Visit attractions shortly before closing time

This is one of my more unconventional travel tips but it has worked consistently for me in big cities, from Rome and Florence to Paris.

When it comes to museums, one of the least busy times to go is about 1 hour before closing because nobody thinks this gives them enough time.

Honestly though, because I don’t usually dwell at the long in museums anyway, an hour is more than perfect for me, especially when there’s zero crowds to brawl with.

EXAMPLE: I recently went to the Louvre on Bastille Day (AKA when there’s free admission). Despite the freebie, I was able to walk right on in without lining up at all about 1 hour before closing. Insane!

travelling to paris advice

Avoid sightseeing bus tours if you can

Traffic in Paris is the worst, and while most things tend to seem a bit more magical in Paris thanks to their setting, sadly traffic is still as dull as anywhere else in the world.

I remember one time, I had to do a sightseeing bus tour for my summer internship and we were stuck in traffic forever, with terrible views of everything to boot because we were stuck behind tinted glass windows.

If you’re able to explore Paris on foot, then I recommend doing that. If not, try to book a tour during off-peak traffic periods with an open top roof… or consider doing a river cruise instead!

Big bus tour in Paris with Galeries Lafayette ad on the side

Don’t miss a Seine River cruise

The #1 shamelessly touristy thing I recommend to every visitor is to take a Seine River cruise. There is no better way to enjoy Paris – trust me.

I worked for a river cruise company one summer, with multi-day itineraries all around Europe and the highlight of my trips would always be the Seinr River cruise part through Paris.

I must have done it 10 times or more, and I was still twitching in excitement every time.

There are a lot of options for Seine River cruises, but here are some you can easily pre-book online:

  • (Cheapest!) This standard 1hr cruise
  • This 2 hr lunch cruise
  • (Splurge!) This evening cruise with dinner

travelling to paris advice

Don’t feel guilty for skipping “must-dos”

Ahh, I wish I could tattoo this Paris tip onto every visitor’s forehead, but it’s important you remember that this is YOUR vacation, and you shouldn’t feel guilty for any part of it (croissant binges included).

Seriously… Every second thing in Paris has been called “a must see” by one person or another, so don’t build your itinerary around what other people say is awesome, especially if it’s not something you typically like.

For instance, here’s my confession: I find the Louvre kinda boring.

Why? You wait forever to get inside, at which point you’re herded in with throngs of other tourists, then you linger around forever because you feel like you “should”.

Ehh. It’s alright, and I’ve grown to like it more on subsequent visits, but if art isn’t your thing, there’s no shame in skipping it.

travelling to paris advice

Don’t get hyped up for the Mona Lisa

On a related note… okay, I can’t call this iconic lady a tourist trap, but let’s say she is a lot more petite than you would expect.

The Louvre is a lovely museum if you like art, but don’t organize your whole trip around seeing the Mona Lisa because she’s this tiny little painting in a giant room filled with other disappointed people all trying to get selfies because #Paris.

Tourists photographing the Mona Lisa at the Louvre Museum in Paris, France

Prepare yourself for strikes

People often joke that striking is like the national sport of France, and while that may be a bit of an exaggeration, I’ve been impacted by strikes on the majority of my trips to Paris, so… it’s definitely worth keeping in mind!

On my first trip for instance, a train strike meant that we had to take a 12 hour bus from Nice to Paris instead of the much shorter train.

It also took me 4 tries to visit the Arc de Triomphe due to random strikes and closures.

So, keep in mind that this may be something that will impact your trip. There’s not much you can do to prepare for this apart from Googling attractions the day before you visit just to double check that they aren’t closed, but remember: going with the flow is an important skill to master if you want to properly enjoy Paris!

travelling to paris advice

Prepare yourself for random closures

Similar to the Paris tip above – you should brace yourself for closures and always have a plan B.

Going with the flow is important, because besides strikes, there are often times that shops, restaurants or attractions are closed even if Google Maps says they’re open.

This is especially true if you visit peak vacation periods like August, when may locals will leave the city.

travelling to paris advice

Seek out fun and unique tours

Paris is one of the most visited cities in the world, and of course you can have an amazing time sightseeing and taking yourself around the city… but you should also know that there’s loads of unique tours you can choose from that will make your experience all the more special.

Here are some options:

  • This vintage car tour that includes a wine tasting
  • This gourmet food tour
  • This fashion tour with a style guide

Bring your Student ID everywhere if you have one

Many Paris attractions will have a student discount (and freebies especially if you’re a student in the EU).

Just make sure you have VALID proof that you’re a student (i.e. your regular student ID might not work if it doesn’t have any validity dates on it).

My Student ID for example only showed the date it was issued, not the date it was valid until, so I had a hard time with it in some attractions.

PRO TIP: These days, many places only accept valid  ISIC cards as proof of being a student, so if you intend to make use of your student ID a lot on your trip, you should consider getting one. The savings are more than worth it!

Travel blogger sitting on a bench by the Eiffel Tower

Bring proof of age/residency everywhere you go

Besides heavy discounts for children (at pretty much every attraction), Paris also offers many discounts for “youths” (teens/early twenties), particularly those who reside in the EU.

The Eiffel Tower for instance has a “Youth Rate” for those that are between 12-24 and there’s a weekend ticket available for young people under 25 for the Metro, where you get unlimited trips in a day for about 4 euros. Amazing deal!

Most of the major museums actually have free/discounted admission for EU residents under 26. This was how I got into the Orsay and many other museums free during my visit as an exchange student living in Germany (I was allowed in free because of my student visa).

There are frequently also senior discounts for those who are 60+. My rule of thumb: it doesn’t hurt to ask 🙂

View of the Orsay museum in Paris

Get familiar with the many free things to do in Paris

Paris is a city where the cost of attractions can add up quickly.

Luckily, there are a lot of free things to do that are just as fun as paid attractions, like visiting the city’s parks, heading to free museums, etc.

Check out my full list of free things to do in Paris for more.

Old timbered house in the Montmartre neighbourhood of Paris

Enjoy sunset from the Seine

Of all the cheap activities you can enjoy in Paris, sitting down to enjoy sunset by the Seine is one of my favourites.

This to me is a quintessentially Parisian experience (best enjoyed with a glass of wine!) that you cannot miss. Make sure to schedule this in at least once!

Sunset along the Seine with the Eiffel Tower in the distance

Don’t make it a priority to go UP the Eiffel Tower

If I can be honest with you, I genuinely think the view from the Eiffel Tower is one of the worse paid viewpoints in the entire city.

Woah, I know – bold statement, but hear me out. Isn’t one of the most iconic parts of the Parisian skyline the Eiffel Tower itself? And wouldn’t you say that a view without said tower would feel mighty incomplete?

… exactly.

That’s why I’ve been up the Eiffel Tower only once and don’t really plan on doing it ever again. A Parisian view without the Iron Lady is like a pain au chocolate sans chocolat . You feel me?

View of Paris from the Eiffel Tower

Consider walking the Eiffel Tower

If you are set on heading up the Eiffel Tower though, there’s a more unique way up that many visitors don’t know about.

For those looking to get a leg workout, you can also opt to climb up the Eiffel Tower on foot.

Not only is this a unique way to experience this Parisian landmark , you’ll also encounter shorter wait times and line-ups than taking the elevator up.

Do NOT jaywalk across the roundabout at the Arc de Triomphe

I know I said earlier that jaywalking is mainly fine in Paris, but there’s one big exception – the roundabout at the Arc de Triomphe.

This is a sight that makes me cringe every time – a LOT of tourists in Paris seem to miss the fact that the passageway to the Arc de Triomphe is underground, so they choose chaos and instead try to run across this super busy roundabout into the middle section.

Don’t do that – it’s genuinely dangerous! Look instead for the stairs that will take you underground.

Tourist taking a photo of the Arc de Triomphe

Don’t miss the free view at Galeries Lafayette

Looking for a splendid view that won’t cost a thing? Head to the world famous Galeries Lafayette, where an epic rooftop view awaits.

It took me so many visits to finally explore this free view and now it’s one of my faves, especially because the Opera Garnier is… the best.

You can see the Eiffel Tower from here too!

PS: For more amazing free viewpoints in the area, I’ve heard the one at Printemps is excellent too, but it was closed when I tried to go.

View over Paris from the Galeries Lafayette rooftop

Go to Sacré-Cœur (at sunrise)

If you don’t mind a little climb that will melt your legs right off, there’s a phenomenal view over the city from Sacré-Cœur Basilica, a view that’s even more glorious if you climb its tower.

For an extra special experience, come here for sunrise.

Sacré-Coeur Basilica in Montmartre, Paris as seen from the back

Raining? Head to Paris’ Covered Passages

The Covered Passages of Paris are one of my favourite hidden gems in the city – you’ll find about 20 of them scattered mainly around the 2nd, 9th and 10th arrondissements.

While each passage is different, they all share a magical quality that brings you back in time, with splendid architectural details and a lovely mix of shops, bistros and cafes.

Here are some of my favourite covered passages in Paris:

  • Galerie Vivienne
  • Passage Jouffroy
  • Passage des Panoramas

Covered passageway in Paris

See inside the Palais Garnier

The Palais Garnier (Paris Opera House) is an attraction many tourists visit for the exterior, but please, if you can, go buy yourself a ticket to go inside.

No joke – This is one of the most beautiful buildings I’ve seen in my entire life.

Sure, my teenage obsession with the Phantom of the Opera likely plays a factor, but if you have time in your itinerary, GO INSIDE. It’s stunning!

The beautiful staircase at the Palais Garnier in Paris, France

Visit the Parc des Buttes-Chaumont

Paris is full of gorgeous parks, and taking advantage of them is a must when you visit.

The Jardins des Tuileries and Jardins du Luxembourg are both prominent tourist must-sees recommended in every travel guide, but if you don’t mind going a bit further afield, the Parc des Buttes-Chaumont is a wonderful park.

Sure it’s farther from other tourist sights in Paris, but it’s also less busy, and filled with awesome sights like a large artificial lake, a cool grotto with waterfalls, and several neat bridges.

Lake at Parc des Buttes-Chaumont in Paris, France

Seek alternate viewpoints to main attractions

This is a Paris tip that you can use pretty much all over the city.

When you’re exploring the main attractions in Paris, try to venture a little away from the crowds to find cool alternate viewpoints.

You’d be surprised at how easy it is to find a spot with fewer people to get THE perfect photo and some creative angles as well.

For example, the Sacré-Cœur is most photographed from the front entrance, along the steps, but my personal favourite view is from the Square Marcel Bleustein Blanchet, just behind and usually with a fraction of the crowds.

Similarly, Trocadero or the Champs de Mars is the #1 place people go to photograph the Eiffel Tower, but the Passerelle Debilly offers a much cooler angle (and unique opportunity to score a photo without a million other people in it).

View of the Eiffel Tower from the Passerelle Debilly in Paris, France

Head to a flea market

I adore rummaging for useless junk and something about rummaging for useless junk in Paris makes the event feel 100x more romantic.

Les Puces (as popularized by Midnight in Paris) is one of the better known flea markets in the city, and while some say its popularity has turned it into a touristy place, it’s still well worth a visit if you love nostalgically sifting through crap as much as I do.

Old globes and antiques on display at the flea market in Saint Ouen in Paris

Consider doing Disneyland Paris as a one-night trip rather than a day trip

Doing Paris to Disneyland Paris as a day trip is a very common part of visitors’ itineraries, but if I were you, I would recommend doing (at least) one night there instead.

I’ve been to Disneyland Paris 3 times now – and while it’s quite doable as a day trip, nothing beats sleeping close to the park, arriving early, and staying late.

This allows you to maximize your time at the parks (to discover Disneyland Paris’ secrets and its uniquely beautiful castle ) and not stress too much about transportation.

Castle at Disneyland Paris

Safety Tips for Paris

I’ve heard some of the worst horror stories there are to hear about Paris… from people getting their passports stolen while picnicking by the Eiffel Tower to people getting pickpocketed straight out of the airport.

If you don’t want that to be you, here are some tips for avoiding safety issues in Paris.

Keep valuables out of sight

Tourist-related crimes in Paris are primarily opportunistic ones.

Off the top of my head, these are stories I have heard from visitors and Paris locals:

  • Someone getting their phone yanked out of their hands on the Metro as the doors were closing
  • Someone getting their phone stolen off their table at a cafe terrace
  • Someone getting their bag and passports stolen because they left their bag unattended near the Eiffel Tower while taking photos

The one common denominator here is that their valuables were in sight and easy to gab, so try your best to keep an eye on your valuables and not have them out and about.

Vintage suitcases at a flea market in Paris

Know the emergency numbers

In North America, 911 is the go-to when you have any kind of emergency.

If you face an emergency in Paris, there’s a few options for numbers you can call:

  • 112 – General line where you may be redirected
  • 15 – Ambulance/medical emergencies
  • 17 – Police
  • 18 – Fire department

Police cars on the road in Paris

Don’t Sign Petitions

9/10 times, if someone comes up to you asking you to sign a petition in any touristy area in Paris, it is something known as the Parisian Petitions scam.

Here’s how it works: Young girls will approach you in busy places (Champs-Élysées, Jardins des Tuileries, Notre Dame, etc) with a clipboard and will either pretend to be deaf-mute, using gestures to ask you to sign OR they will ask “do you speak English?” to draw you in.

Usually they do this to distract you while another pickpockets you, or commonly they ask you for a donation while you sign the petition, and get really aggressive when you don’t.

To deal with this scam, just ignore, avoid eye contact and move on.

Don’t accept bracelets from strangers

This happens a LOT near Sacre-Coeur and the Louvre, but usually, if someone is trying to give you a bracelet, that’s another common Parisian scam.

Here’s how it works: There will be guys with string bracelets walking around in busy touristy areas, trying to sell them to you.

The more aggressive ones will even tie the bracelet on your wrist without you consenting, then demand you pay for it. Avoid these guys like the plague!

Sacre Coeur Basilica at the top of stairs

Beware of pickpockets

Another important Paris tip is to always have an eye on your belongings and don’t bring anything out that you can’t afford to lose.

I know this all sounds paranoid, but there are even pickpockets operating in paid attractions like the Louvre, so please be careful!

I’ve written a full guide on how to avoid pickpockets in Europe, so be sure to read that to get familiar with common scams and tactics.

Typical Parisian street

Beware of overly helpful people at the Metro

Buying tickets at the Metro stations can be confusing, but don’t fall into the trap of an overly helpful stranger who has volunteered to help you.

Sometimes they will offer to help you get tickets in exchange for your cash, then get you the wrong ones (e.g. a child’s ticket) while pocketing the profit. This is a very common scam that has happened to friends of mine, so beware!

Don’t accept free roses

Another popular Paris scam is the rose scam, where you’ll be given a rose as a “gift” then asked for money.

So, if some guy hands you a rose, don’t take it… even if he insists it’s a welcome gift. He WILL ask you for money, or ask your significant other for money at some point.

Red rose on the ground

Avoid sketchy EuroNet ATMs

If you’re going to an ATM, try your best to find one that’s connected to an actual bank.

There are a lot of ATMs (especially around tourist areas) that charge huge fees, or make currency conversion more confusing than it needs to be so you can get charged more.

As a general rule, don’t use any of those Euronet ATMs – they’re the worst!

Man covering pin code at an ATM

Have a plan in case of a worst case scenario

This isn’t just a good Paris travel tip, but a good tip for travelling anywhere – make a plan for the worst case scenario.

Imagine your bags get stolen in Paris with your passports and all your cash/cards – what would be your backup plan? What would you do if you lost your phone?

Having a plan in place can minimize stress in the event that anything does happen, and having that peace of mind is very important for any vacation!

Paris Conciergerie building along the Seine

Food and Drink Tips for Paris

Eating and drinking well is a quintessential part of any Paris trip. Here are some Paris travel tips related to food and drink!

Avoid restaurants with giant pictures or openly advertising a “tourist menu”

These are likely to be overpriced and gross, despite sounding like a good deal.

I got sucked into one during my first backpacking trip in Europe and it was…. not great.

It also goes without saying that the hard Rock Cafe isn’t where you should go if you’re looking for authentic Parisian cuisine:

Hard Rock cafe in paris

Know the difference between “Menu” and “Carte”

In North America, we use the word “menu” to refer to the piece of paper that lists all the dishes and prices at a restaurant.

But “Menu” in France has a different meaning – it instead refers to a combo/set meal, so if you order a “Big Mac Menu” for example, what you’re ordering is a combo that comes with the sandwich, fries and drink. So, remember that difference and don’t just go asking for “menus” or else you might create some confusion.

In France, the list of prices/dishes is actually known as the “Carte”.

Parisian bistro

Double check that places have prices on display before ordering

A common tourist scam in Paris is to not have prices on display so they can charge thirsty, hangry, unsuspecting tourists whatever they want, so remember to double check lest you get sucked into paying 5 euros for a Coke.

Expect to eat dinner later

If you’re accustomed to eating dinner before 8pm, then know that you’ll probably have to adjust slightly to adapt to typical Parisian dinner times, which usually begin around 7:30pm or often later. 

You won’t have trouble finding something to eat earlier than that, but many restaurants will close between lunch and dinner to prep, so keep that in mind if you were looking forward to a particular restaurant… and maybe pack some granola bars in your purse to fight off the hanger.

Parisian cafe

Make reservations

If you have your eye on a particular restaurant in Paris, odds are many others do too! Avoid disappointment by reserving a table in advance. 

This will help you avoid the dreaded ‘walk of shame’ going from restaurant to restaurant asking if they have space. 

In peak periods (especially weekends!), odds are the best spots won’t… or they won’t even take reservations at all, in which case showing up early is your best bet.

If you dread making phone calls like me, you can book reservations online via OpenTable and The Fork although they only cover a portion of restaurants in the city.

Red chair and table at Parisian cafe

Know that restaurant hours may vary

If there’s one thing I’ve learned about Parisian restaurants, it’s that Google Maps can’t be trusted! A lot of the time, operating hours will shift around or be different than what is online, much to the frustration of many a rumbling belly.

There’s not a ton you can do about this, except booking a table in advance or preparing a few backups in case you need to go with the flow.

Wait to be seated

Seating yourself is not usually a thing in Paris, and there will often be signs telling you so, although many tourists don’t see it or choose to self-seat anyway.

To avoid the wrath of your server, definitely don’t just take any table you see (they might be reserved!) and wait to be seated.

Breakfast in Paris with a coffee and baguette

Know that the service charge is included

In France, a 15% service charge is included in your bill, so the tipping culture here is definitely less prominent than in North America.

Opinion is divided on whether or not you should still tip on top of this service charge – younger Parisians often won’t bother with a tip at all. For me personally, it comes down to what “feels right” (so Canadian, I know!)

If you feel your server deserves a bit extra, then 5-10% would be acceptable… but you don’t need to feel obligated like you might in North America.

Splurge more at lunch

This is a great travel tip for not just Paris, but all over Europe. If you want to splurge on some nice local cuisine while in Paris, a much cheaper way to do this is by having a nice lunch.

Many restaurants will have lunch specials or “menus” which include multiple courses for a much cheaper price than at dinner time.

Man reading newspaper at Parisian cafe

Ask for tap water by asking for”une carafe d’eau”

Often when you order water at a restaurant, they might assume you mean bottled. If you are 100% sure you want tap water, then ask for “une carafe d’eau”.

This will help avoid the heart attack from a 7 euro bottle of water on your bill (true story).

Try the “Plat du Jour”

Many restaurants in Paris will offer a “Plat du Jour” or “Dish of the Day” which is typically a special dish that’s offered in addition to the regular menu offerings.

Often, this dish will be cheaper, or at least something special, so consider trying one if it sounds good!

Chef in a restaurant preparing food

Avoid eating in the Latin Quarter

I know generalizing is unfair, but this is a Paris tip that many Paris travel guides (including me) will repeat: stay away from the tourist trap restaurants of the Latin Quarter!

From personal experience, I can tell you the food is not good. Some things to look out for include big signs that say “TOURIST MENU” or “FREE WIFI”. Any restaurants that have a pushy server in the front beckoning you to come in will also likely not be great.

Of course, not all restaurants in this area are doomed. Here are some recommendations from a local.

Find happy hours for cheap drinks

Paris can be an expensive city for booze, but if you plan smartly, you can definitely save a ton of money.

One great way to enjoy drinks cheaply in Paris is by seeking out Happy Hours. Many bars offer them, but here is a list of some top ones.

Paris happy hour

Get breakfast from a boulangerie when they open

Can you imagine anything better than a hot buttery croissant, still warm from the oven?

… Maybe a pain au chocolat, still warm from the oven, but I’ll leave that fierce debate up to you.

Either way, if you want a cheap, delicious, and authentically Parisian breakfast, skip the hotel breakfast buffet and head straight to a boulangerie for a fresh assortment of baked goods.

Try as much as possible from a boulangerie

On that note, don’t limit yourself to just baguettes, croissants, and pain au chocolats.

While these are all indeed delightful heaven-sent creations, there are many more amazing treats in Paris to be enjoyed and taste-tested.

I’m partial to tasty Tarte aux Fraises or Tarte aux Framboises – amazing berry tarts with buttery crusts that are filled with a wonderful cream and juicy berries on top. Completely irresistible.

I’d recommend you just pick what looks good though and make a big picnic out of it!

Pastries in a Parisian boulangerie

Good macarons are worth the cost

My first time in Paris, I was alarmed at how expensive macarons were. 2-3 euros for a tiny cookie? My backpacker budget couldn’t justify it.

But trust me – there’s a world of difference between the cheap macarons from supermarkets (which are often cakey, and just sugary more than anything else) and the pricey macarons you get from big names like La Durée and Pierre Hermé.

Some will say these shops are overpriced, but I feel like they’re a worth it “treat yo’self” splurge. Try one yourself to see the difference!

Colourful macarons held out in front of the Eiffel Tower

Yes, cheese is eaten post-meal here. Embrace it

If you’re used to eating cheese as an appetizer, then you should know that in France, it’s more common to eat cheese after the main course (sometimes in place of dessert) or maybe as a nibble to go along with your Apéro (a pre-dinner drink usually accompanied by finger foods).

… Just go with it.

Cheeses on display in Paris

Eat your weight in crêpes

Crepes are a French cliché I can firmly get behind. You’ll find crêpe stands all around the city, and honestly, I’ve never had a bad one.

For a more indulgent “experience” with crêpes, Breizh Café  is a very popular pick. I’ve been there once before and it was definitely nice, although much fancier (and therefore pricier) than typical crepe stalls.

Nutella crepe with an Eiffel Tower drawn on

On a Budget? Picnicking is the way to go

My first Europe backpacking trip is when I experienced the art of the Parisian picnic for the first time and my life was forever changed.

Eating in Paris doesn’t have to be expensive.

Sometimes, the best meal is simply a fresh baguette and an assortment of meats/cheeses/fruits from a local market.

Shared with friends, this is an affordable experience that’s not only delicious, but absolutely wonderful if you pick a scenic place to eat too!

Picnic spread with cupcakes and a baguette on a checkered blanket

Get food from grocery stores or markets to save a lot of money

Similar to the tip above, don’t feel pressured to dine at a restaurant for every meal while in Paris.

These costs can add up quickly, and since Parisian service can be… a bit slow, often this will cut into your sightseeing time as well.

Instead, don’t forget that grocery stores and markets are a great resource for cheap grab & go meals, or even groceries for whipping up your own meals if you’ve booked accommodation with kitchen facilities.

Shop at local markets

As in countless other places around the world, many locals in Paris prefer to get fresh produce from markets rather than grocery stores, where the quality is often not as high and the goods not as fresh.

As a tourist, it’s also a nice experience to try shopping at local markets since the interactions you get are a lot less sterile than in a chain supermarket for instance. Maybe a chance to test out your French while buying some fromage?

Photo by GG LeMere on Unsplash

Drinking in public is A-okay

I grew up in Vancouver, Canada, where you couldn’t even have a drink on the beach. So, visiting Paris as a 20 year old (only just able to drink legally back home!) was quite the shock.

Here, it’s totally common to enjoy a glass of wine or a beer while chilling in the park or by the Seine, so go wild!

Try to buy your alcohol from grocery stores before 10pm

I’ve been caught out by this more times than I can count… and it’s a surprise each time!

While there doesn’t seem to be any official restrictions on the sale of alcohol in France, some supermarket chains/gas stations have their own rules in place where they won’t sell you alcohol after a certain time (often 9 or 10pm, depending on the chain and location).

Yes, this sometimes means the store is still open, and you can even grab a bottle of wine from the cooler while staff watch, but they will refuse to ring it up due to store policy (can you tell I’m still bitter?)

Anyways, just keep in mind that this is a thing, and try to stock up earlier if you can.

Wine bottles on sale in a shop

… but if you’re desperate, Uber Eats can deliver alcohol

As can some “convenience stores”, although you can expect inflated prices from both these options.

Don’t be pressured to only buy French food

If it’s your first time visiting Paris, you may feel pressured to eat only French cuisine all the time because that’s what’s “authentic”.

But the truth is, Paris is a global city! Today, over 150 nationalities are represented in Paris which means there’s all sorts of wonderful restaurants from global cuisines as well.

Neon sign for Asian restaurant in Paris

Dine away from main tourist attractions

Recommending the top restaurants in Paris to you is outside the scope of my expertise, but one Paris travel tip I need to shout over and over is this: dine away from the city’s top tourist attractions!

Often the restaurants set up close to main attractions (e.g. Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, etc.) are geared towards high turnover tourist crowds, meaning inflated prices, and mediocre food because they don’t expect repeat-customers.

One easy way to find better restaurants instantly is walking a few blocks away from main attractions. Remember, avoid “tourist menus” like the plague!

Beautiful cafe in Paris au Vieux Paris

Consider a food tour

If you’re a true foodie who wants to try a lot of Parisian goodies while learning more about them in context, then a food tour might be a great idea.

I’ve done many food tours in my travels, and always find them very enjoyable – not just for the food, but to learn more about local life and why certain foods are popular/how they’re made.

I still haven’t done a food tour in Paris, but you are absolutely spoiled for choice when it comes to options.

Here are some fun-sounding food tours I’d love to try:

  • This food tour in Saint Germain
  • This gourmet gastronomy tour
  • This Paris “best food ever” tour

Hot chocolate and pastry on golden plates from Angelina Paris

Take a cooking class

The only thing better than sampling local cuisine is learning how to make it yourself! If you love food, one of the best bucket list experiences you can pursue in Paris is taking a French cooking class.

  • This full day French cuisine class with a 4 course lunch
  • This choux and éclair class
  • This croissant making class
  • This macaron making class

Pain au chocolats on a table during a baking class

Get rose gelato from Amorino

Amorino is not exclusive to Paris, but they have great gelato and the presentation/concept is too cool to not mention.

Long story short: Amorino shapes your gelato like roses, and you can get as many flavours as you want because you simply pay by the size of cone rather than per flavour. I usually get at least one Amorino any time I’m in Paris, because their gelato is delicious and just so pretty to look at.

NOTE: I’m fully aware that there are more “Parisian” ice cream recommendations (like Berthillon), but I’m a shameless basic B who loves Amorino. Try it yourself and you’ll see what I mean.

Rose shaped gelato from Amorino

Paris Etiquette Tips

Wondering how not to be rude in Paris? Here are some important must-knows related to French etiquette to keep in mind before you visit.

Say “bonjour” or “bonsoir” when entering a shop

If you’re going to learn two French words, these would be it. Failure to greet people when entering a shop is considered the peak of rudeness in Paris , so don’t forget.

Bonjour is hello, and bonsoir is good evening.

A good rule of thumb is to say bonjour before 6pm and bonsoir after 6pm.

Paris old bookstore front

Also say “au revoir” or “merci” when leaving a shop

Failing to say “goodbye” on your way out is also very much frowned upon, so remember to say bye or thank you as well.

Attempt French

Of course, you don’t need to master the French language before you visit Paris, but a little effort goes a long way.

I’ve usually gotten decent service in Paris (contrary to the rude Parisian stereotype), and I chalk that up to the fact that I speak French.

Here are some key phrases you should 100% commit to memory, along with rough pronunciation guides:

  • Hello = Bonjour (bon-zhoor)
  • Good evening = Bonsoir (bon-swahr) -> [ say this after 6pm-ish, people kind of get snobby if you say “bonjour” in the evening]
  • Thank you = Merci (mer-see)
  • Please = S’il vous plaît (see voo play)
  • Can I get the bill please? = L’addition, s’il vous plaît (lah-diss-yon, see voo play)
  • Do you speak English? = Parlez-vous anglais? (par-lay voo ong-lay)
  • Excuse me (like, sorry/when you’re trying to move past someone) = Pardon (pahr-dawn)
  • Excuse me (like, when you’re trying to get someone’s attention) = Excusez-moi (ex-kews-ay-mwah)
  • Bye = Au revoir (oh rev-war)

If you’re looking for a more thorough guide with audio included, check out this awesome article from my friend Diane, an expat living in France!

Cherry blossom trees in front of the Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris

Always ask “Parlez-vous anglais?” before asking in English

Contrary to stereotypes, many Parisians speak English, but get annoyed by the idea that tourists assume they do.

So, remember to never just run up to someone speaking English – be sure to ask “Parlez-vous anglais (Par-lay voo on-glay)”, which means “Do you speak English?” before proceeding.

Get ready to greet with “La Bise”

This Paris etiquette tip will only be relevant if you plan on meeting a local friend (or friend of a friend) while in Paris, but the standard informal greeting among “friends” is La Bise, which is basically an air kiss on each cheek while making a slight kissing sound.

Trust me, it’s very weird if you’re not used to it, and to this day, I still worry I might accidentally plant a smooch on someone.

Again, this isn’t something you would lay on your hotel concierge or friendly server, but it’s good to know if you have friends in the city, or are meeting up with locals.

Moving past people? Say “Pardon”

I know a lot of tourists default to “excusez-moi”, which would be understood but is more meant as “excuse me” in the context of getting someone’s attention.

Instead, if you want to pardon yourself for moving past someone in a crowd, say “Pardon” instead… with an emphasis on the second syllable “par-DON”.

Striped columns at Palais Royal in Paris

Cover up when visiting churches

As a standard practice, you should aim to cover up your shoulders and knees when visiting any churches in Paris.

Unlike other big tourist cities like Rome or Florence, you won’t often find explicit signs that bar you from entry unless you follow this rule, but it’s definitely a good bare minimum to follow when it comes to respect.

Interior of the Sacre-Coeur Basilica in Paris

Keep your voice down

One of the #1 complaints that I hear from Parisians about North American tourists is how LOUD they can be.

Having lived abroad for several years, I can now totally hear it too.

I’d say generally speaking, North Americans speak louder than their European counterparts, particularly in typically “quiet” places like public transport.

So, if you’re chatting with people, just try to keep your voice down to not disturb others around you.

View of Paris with the Eiffel Tower in the background

Packing Tips for Paris

What should you wear in Paris? And what shouldn’t you wear? What important things should you definitely pack for your Paris trip? Here are my best Paris travel tips related to packing.

Bring comfy shoes

Paris is a city made for walking and exploring.

It’s also a city made of cobblestones!

I know you might want to dress cute for your Paris trip, but do yourself a favour and pack only practical shoes that you can walk a whole day in. Your feet will thank you later.

travelling to paris advice

Bring a theft-proof bag

Unfortunately, pickpocketing and petty theft is common in Paris, particularly with tourists as easy targets.

For peace of mind, you should definitely look into buying theft proof bags like this one , which is slash-proof and also has an abundance of hidden pockets to keep your belongings safe.

Bring bags with hidden pockets or a money belt

If you don’t want to buy an entirely new bag for your trip, that’s understandable, but you should still take a few measures to “theft-proof” your own bags.

A few ideas would be to pick only bags that have an additional layer of security (e.g. a zippered compartment inside the bag, or in the back where it’s inaccessible to grabby hands), or to simply wear a money belt or hidden passport scarf like this one.

Open purse with hidden pocket

Make sure you have a universal adapter

Power sockets in Paris have two round holes and if you’re visiting from overseas, odds are you’ll need an adapter for your plugs to fit.

I’d strongly recommend buying a universal adapter like this one if you don’t have one already.

It’s cheap, can be re-used for every trip, and covers you in all situations. Definitely some of the best money I’ve ever spent!

Pack a water bottle

Paris is filled with free water fountains spouting out clean and cold water for you to drink.

Especially if you’re travelling in the summer, you’ll be doing tons of walking and need to stay hydrated… so pack a water bottle to take advantage of all the free H20.

If you worry about the amount of space a water bottle will take, consider getting a collapsible one like this .

DIY your own travel sized toiletries

This is a very basic packing tip I always recommend, but it’s very easy these days to buy small reusable bottles that you can fill with your own toiletries of choice.

This allows you to bring your favourite products with you, and saves needless one-use toiletries from ending up in the landfill.

Need help picking the right one? Read my guide to reusable toiletry bottles for more info.

travelling to paris advice

Have a re-usable bag handy

You can’t go wrong with a tote bag or two, and I always like to keep one in each purse when I travel.

You never know when you’ll need an extra bag, whether to haul goodies back from the market or simply carrying whatever souvenirs you’ve gotten that day, so remember to pack some.

Bring protective wraps

If you’re travelling with an expensive camera, or anything else fragile, I highly recommend these amazing protective wraps.

I bought mine a few years ago and use them every trip. They’re padded velcro wraps that you can use to protect…. pretty much anything! So handy and they don’t take up too much space.

Alternatively, you can also look into product-specific protectors, like these awesome wine protectors to ensure your precious cargo doesn’t break in transit.

Read up on Parisian style

Pop culture (shaking my fist at you, Emily in Paris ) has brainwashed us into thinking that Parisian style is all about red berets and black/white striped tops. This is not the case at all!

If you want to dress as locals do in Paris, you should definitely read more about how Parisians like to dress – which is often described as chic and effortless. This guide is great for learning the basics!

Parisian woman dressed in black crossing the street

Pack “monochromatic” if you want to blend in more

Bright colours and patterns are fun and I wear them all the time, but (building on the Paris packing tip above), if your goal is to blend in with the style of Parisians, monochromatic colours are a good idea.

But honestly, just wear whatever makes you feel comfortable and chic! Life is too short to worry about what others might be thinking.

… but I draw the line at a red beret.

Parisienne dressed in all black

Final Paris Travel Tips You Must Know Before You Go

Okay, last but not least, here are some miscellaneous Paris trip tips that will help ensue your trip to Paris is as magical as you always dreamed!

Get Your Expectations Straight

Paris is beautiful, yes… but when you spend a lifetime pining over black and white postcards and repeat-screenings of Amélie or Emily in Paris , you start to get reality a little twisted in your head.

Paris is stunning, but it also has its ugly bits. It can be crowded, smelly, the people (both locals and tourists alike) can be rude, and ugh, there is truly nothing worse than stepping onto a scorching Metro car during rush hour.

That, my friends, is where dreams go to die.

Rainbow road full of pastel houses in Paris, France

But if you come in with realistic expectations, if you say to yourself “hm maybe I MIGHT have ten other heads in my Eiffel Tower selfie” or “hey, who doesn’t like random wafts of urine stench?” then you’ll be just fine.

Paris is one of those cities you need to love in spite of its imperfections, not because it’s objectively perfect (like Instagram might have you believe).

Dumpsters full of garbage on a street in Paris, France

Schedule in some people watching time

Sitting around, enjoying the vibe, and people watching is one of Paris’ greatest joys.

If you don’t allow yourself some free time to sit around and judge people walking by (it’s a cultural experience I swear), you’re seriously missing out.

travelling to paris advice

Know that the floor system is different here

A very common misunderstanding for tourists in Paris relates to which floor they’re on in a building. How come? The numbering system for floors in France is actually different than in North America – whee!

It’s not too important to know the specifics of why, but the 2nd floor in North America would be considered the 1st floor in France, because in France, the ground floor (1st floor in North America) is the “Rez-de-chaussée” rather than the 1st floor.

… Sorry, that sounds a little confusing, but I hope you get what I mean.

You can read more about the topic here.

Spiral staircase in Parisian museum

Carry change for public bathrooms

If you’re used to peeing for free back home, sorry – there’s often a charge for public bathrooms in Paris, especially in busier areas like parks.

Usually the fee is 50 cents or a euro, so be sure to have some coins with you in case nature calls.

NOTE: There are Sanisettes on the streets of Paris which are free, but I’ve always had trouble finding one whenever I’ve actually needed it. Just Sod’s Law I guess!

Know how to find free WiFi

WiFi for tourists is a big deal – I get it! Luckily, there’s a lot of free hotspots scattered around Paris.

Here are some Paris tips for always finding free WiFi:

  • Head to (or outside) a McDonalds or Starbucks – they always have WiFI
  • Download an app like Wifi Map which will help you find hotspots
  • Look on FourSquare, where people will often share the password of protected hotspots in the tips section

Keep receipts for a VAT refund

If you come from outside the EU and plan to do a lot of shopping, you may qualify for a VAT tax refund when you leave Paris. This can amount to huge amounts depending on what you buy!

To qualify, you have to be a non-EU resident older than 15 years of age, and you need to spend more than 175 euros in one store in one day.

Here’s more info on how to claim your VAT refund before you leave France.

Large Louis Vuitton store in Paris

Don’t take rudeness personally

Parisians have a reputation for being rude.

As with all generalizations, this isn’t true of all people in the city, but sadly, the stereotype can hold true.

Especially if you’re used to overly friendly North American customer service, your reception in Paris might feel especially frosty.

But let me clue you in on a little secret, my very special secret for loving Paris: its called the subtle art of not giving a duck  (confit), if you get what I’m saying.

Seriously, just don’t care. Laugh it off. Maybe imagine spitting on them in a dramatic dream sequence, but then carry on twirling around and making memories.

… You’ll love Paris so much more with that mindset.

Colourful macarons held out in front of the Seine in Paris, France

Binge on movies set in Paris before your visit

While many visitors tend to romanticize Paris too much (resulting in a sad expectations vs. reality type situation upon arrival), the best way to get absolutely hyped for your Paris trip is to watch plenty of travel movies set there.

Here are a few I love:

  • Midnight in Paris

The Inception Bridge in Paris at night, AKA Pont de Bir-Hakeim

Check out local events during your visit

Paris is a vibrant city with plenty to offer locals as much as tourists.

One of the best ways to get a feel for what it might be like to “live” in Paris is by attending one of the many awesome events happening in the city at any given time.

Sortira Paris is a great resource for current things happening in the city.

Dancers enjoying a dance in front of the Palais Garnier in Paris, France

Use Instagram, Pinterest and Blogs to research more offbeat Paris activities

Guidebooks and Google are great, but if you really want to find Paris hidden gems that are specific to your interests, be sure to dig deeper!

I mean, if you’ve gotten this far on my blog, you’re probably off to a good start, but make sure you also sleuth through Parisian Instagram accounts and blogs, in addition to Pinterest to find more great stuff to do.

You might find my guide on How to Find Cool Stuff to Do Near You helpful.

Futuro House in Paris, France

Use Google Maps to save spots you want to see

Google Maps is an amazing resource not just for navigating a new city, but also for saving spots you might want to visit in the future.

One of my favourite travel hacks is starring every location I deem interesting on Google Maps. You can do this by pressing the Save button when you search up that spot.

This allows you to have a visual map of all the cool cafes, street art murals, attractions, restaurants, etc. that you’ve saved during your research, which means you can easily organize your itinerary/sightseeing.

I love doing this because I’ll often end up in new areas during my explorations, and I can just look at my map to see if anything interesting I read about happens to be nearby. Saves a lot of planning!

Hot air balloon in Paris

Lastly, visit more of France Besides Paris

Okay, here’s a bonus Paris tip: I beg you to explore more places in France besides just Paris!

France is one of my favourite countries in Europe because it has SO much to offer, from the fairytale towns of Alsace to the turquoise coastlines of Normandy.

France is way more than just Paris, so that’s my final Paris tip for you – be sure to come back and see more of the country.

Travel blogger in pink coat posing in front of a white Christmas tree in Colmar, France

I hope this list of Paris travel tips was helpful!

Quite frankly, if you made it this far, I think you deserve some kind of medal! This was a VERY long list of tips for Paris, but if you have any more questions, let me know in the comments.

My Go-To Travel Favourites:

🧳 Eagle Creek: My favourite packing cubes

💳 Wise: For FREE travel friendly credit cards

🍯 Airalo: My go-to eSIM

🏨 Booking.com: For searching hotels

📷 Sony A7IV: My (amazing) camera

✈️ Google Flights : For finding flight deals

🌎 WorldNomads: For travel insurance

🎉 GetYourGuide: For booking activities

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Paris is a bucket list destination for many – its singular architecture, culinary indulgences and penchant for joie de vivre mean travellers often come with high expectations. But while visitors may demand much from Paris and its ethereal image, the city demands much back in the form of coded etiquette and a dogged fixation on the way things should be done, leaving hidden traps for the unassuming tourist. For those travelling to the City of Light for the first time, here is the essential guide to enjoying Paris as a foodie destination.

Tip 1: When to go

It’s safe to say that Paris is dreamy all year round – but each season offers a unique vignette. Summer sees Paris at its most crowded, but it's when most festivals and events in the city take place, and when visitors can take full advantage of café terraces and sunbathing along the Seine. Keep in mind that in August, many small boutiques, restaurants and bakeries shut their doors, as their Parisian owners head to the seaside – but larger establishments remain open. December and January see Paris at its quietest and cheapest, and often without sacrifice. The weather may not be at its peak – rainy, chilly and grey days are common – but ice-skating rinks, holiday markets, winter sales and raclette make it well worth it. Spring and autumn often bring the best of both worlds – with the former seeing blossoming trees lining the city’s Haussmannian boulevards, and the latter offering an autumnal orange variation.

© The Tuileries Gardens in summer in Paris / possum1961/iStock

Read also: The Best Cocktail Bars in Paris

Tip 2: know your pâtisserie from your café-brasserie.

For those who do not speak French, or who are new to the city, the most important tip to learn ahead of travelling is distinguishing between the different kinds of French eateries. A café-brasserie is perhaps Paris’s most iconic style of restaurant – there's a wide variety, but it is typically an informal restaurant serving simple yet hearty food. Brasseries are often spacious, usually serving breakfast, lunch and dinner, as well as alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, including coffee and tea. Traditional and historic brasseries around Paris can be popular, so booking ahead is advised. The bistrot , or bistro in English, is often smaller and more intimate than the brasserie, and familial in style. In contrast to brasseries, bistros are often only open during lunch and dinner hours. Reservations are essential, especially for well-known establishments. Similarly to brasseries, bistros range in style, with some more rustic, laid-back and intimate and others more contemporary and gourmet. In contrast, the restaurant gastronomique is a higher-end establishment, and often associated with luxury hotels or lauded chefs. Many are expensive, but they typically come with meticulous service standards and ambience. These restaurants often serve more affordable menus during lunch hours. A table d’hôte – which means host’s table – is a restaurant, often attached to a hotel, that offers fixed-price menus ('menu prix fixe'). Vegetarians and vegans beware, as not all prix fixe menus offer plant-based options. Prices vary, as do styles, but the key is that the table d’hôte does not offer a variety of choice. The bar à vin , or wine bar, is the most laid-back of the bunch, offering places for guests to perch and enjoy glasses of wine and simple plates of charcuterie and fromage. Finally, at a glance: a boulangerie makes and sells bread; a pâtisserie offers sweet delicacies such as pastries and desserts; and a viennoiserie is something in between, serving sweet, flaky pastries.

© The Café de Flore terrace / Jerome LABOUYRIE/iStock

Tip 3: When to eat

Tip 4: how to tip.

© Aerial metro in Paris / Esperanza33/iStock

Tip 5: How to get around

It may seem intimidating, but public transport in Paris is quite easy; the metro is cheap and efficient, and customers can buy day passes or 'billets' for single rides. While Uber may be appealing during less-than-ideal weather, keep in mind that Paris traffic can make your ride far longer than advertised.  However, the best way to get around Paris and experience its many charms is to walk from arrondissement to arrondissement, traversing the city at your pace and exploring its many nooks and crannies. There is even a term for such a wanderer – flâneur, a Baudelarian word for a stroller, and keen observer of urban life. And what better city to be a flâneur in?

Read also: 5 Parisian Hotels That Double as Culinary Experiences

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Home > Paris Travel Tips > Americans in Paris: Things to Know Before Going to Paris for the First Time

Americans in Paris: Things to Know Before Going to Paris for the First Time

Paris for americans.

If you’re one of the 12 million Americans visiting Europe this year, chances are Paris is part of your travel itinerary . And with good reason! Each year, there are more Americans in Paris than any other nation. If you are an American traveling to Paris for the first time , these tips will help you enjoy your experience to the fullest.

A Guest Post by Sage from  Everyday Wanderer

Americans in Paris

Things to Know Before Traveling to Paris from US

1- do your homework.

Americans are notoriously ignorant about the world outside of our borders. Rise above the reputation by knowing a few basics like the language spoken (French), the currency (Euro), and that Paris is France’s capital city.

Before traveling to Paris from US, try to learn about French culture. Also, there are a lot of sites related to American history, such as the former Hotel d’York or the Picpus cemetery you may want to visit during your trip to Paris.

French Culture Shock

2- Research Local Holidays in Paris

Paris Travel Planning

While the French and Americans share holidays like Christmas and New Year’s Day, other holidays are unique to each country.

While Americans celebrate Independence Day on July 4th, that’s just another lovely summer day in Paris. But on July 14th, France’s National Day is an important holiday in France. Expect many businesses and venues to be closed on holidays in Paris so that the nation can celebrate with family and friends.

FUN FACT:   Did you know that the key to the Bastille is on display here ? Spoiler alert:  it’s not in France.

3- Learn a Few Words en Français Before Visiting Paris for the First Time

Alternative Travel Books About Paris

Although English is widely spoken in Paris, knowing a few phrases in the local language will enhance your experience. From basic greetings to “Do you speak English?” here are nine phrases to know in French that Americans in Paris should learn when visiting Paris for the first time.

4- Take US Embassy Information with You

I believe that when you plan for the worst, it never happens. So take out a free insurance policy by carrying the address and phone number of the US Embassy in Paris with you at all times. In case of emergency, from a lost passport to a medical situation, they are ready and able to assist.

TIP: Here’s the best Insurance for Paris (and France!)

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5- Book Some Sightseeing Tickets in Advance

Skip the Line Eiffel Tower

The last thing you want to do in Paris is spend your time waiting in line.

There are some ways to avoid the longest lines in Paris , but buying skip-the-line tickets for the main tourist attractions is key. So once you have finalized your travel dates, start purchasing tickets to some of the top tourist sights in Paris in advance.

Great tickets to purchase in advance when traveling to Paris for the first time include the Eiffel Tower , tickets to the Louvre Museum , and tickets to Versailles Palace . If you are going to visit many museums and tourist sights, decide if the Paris Museum Pass is interesting for you.

Americans Traveling to Paris from US: Hotel Check in

6- a room for one.

While Americans are used to hotel rooms that nearly always contain either a king or two queen-sized beds and enough bath towels for four people, accommodations in Paris are usually quite different. There is such a thing as a single room, and it’s what it sounds like: a room with a single bed and one bath towel. A room with a larger bed is typically two single beds pushed together.

Hotels in Paris

7- The Key to Managing Electricity Costs

Many hotels in Paris require that you insert your plastic room key in a special slot near the door before any of the lights or electrical outlets will power on. When you leave the room and grab your key, the power outlets will often stop working. I learned this the hard way when I left my laptop charging while I went to grab breakfast, only to come back to a dead computer.

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PRO TIP: Most hotels will give you a second room key upon request. So consider this option if you need to charge an item or two while you’re away from your room.

Travel smart, don’t let your hairdryer explode in Paris…  

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8- Stairway to Heaven

Like most large cities, Americans in Paris need to expect everything to be more compact in Paris. From the cars you see on the road to the space in your hotel room.

Expect the elevators to be equally small. And by small, I mean that you and your bag may be all that fits in some elevators. Unless you are on a high floor, are lugging heavy suitcases, or have a physical condition that makes it difficult, use the stairs and leave the elevator open for other guests.

9- Ground Zero

While Americans consider the ground floor to be the first floor, Europeans consider the first floor above the ground floor to be the first floor. This helpful tidbit will help you find your hotel room or your Paris furnished apartment . And it will help you count how many more flights of stairs are ahead of you as you lug your suitcase upstairs in a building without an elevator.

American Tourists in Paris: What to Wear

10- bring good walking shoes for paris.

One of the best ways to explore the cobblestone streets of St. Germain-des-Prés , the tree-lined Champs-Élysées, or the beautiful Jardin du Luxembourg , is on foot. Americans traveling to Paris should be sure to bring a comfortable pair of shoes before walking a daily marathon while visiting Paris for the first time.

Best Shoes for Paris in Spring – Summer

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11- Snazz Up Your Suitcase

The French aren’t just known for their flaky croissants, colorful macarons, and exceptional wine . They’re also known for their fashion sense.

What to wear when traveling to Paris? Replace your comfy yoga pants with loose-fitting slacks and your sloppy sweats with a sundress so that you don’t stand out like a gauche tourist when traveling to Paris for the first time. In terms of comfy footwear, opt for stylish flats, boots, or sandals instead of your broken-in and battered-up sneakers.

Paris Packing List for Men - Spring Summer

Check out these Paris Style Guides for Men and Women

  • Paris Style Guide for Women: Spring & Summer
  • Paris Style Guide for Women: Fall & Winter
  • Paris Style Guide for Men: Spring & Summer
  • Paris Style Guide for Men: Fall & Winter

12- Leave Your Stars & Stripes Speedo at Home

If you are an American tourist in Paris, do your best to blend in rather than shine a bright spotlight on your nationality. Leave any clothing, suitcases, backpacks, or purses with the American flag on them at home. The same goes for anything sporting your favorite American sports team or college alma mater.

travelling to paris advice

13- Sunday Best

Before you can gaze up at the colorful stained glass windows in Sainte-Chapelle or down at the brass gnomon embedded in the floor at Saint-Sulpice , you should be dressed appropriately.

Most cathedrals, churches, synagogues, and mosques expect visitors to have their shoulders and knees covered. If you are visiting Paris for the first time in the warmer summer months, wear a long, flowy skirt to cover your knees and carry a lightweight sweater with you to cover up any bare shoulders.

Visiting Paris as an American Tourist: Getting Around & Experiencing Paris

14- take advantage of public transportation in paris.

The Parisian Metro

If at all possible, avoid driving when visiting Paris. The cars, roads, and parking posts are much smaller than in the US. The signs will be different than in the US and often in French. From taxis to the Parisian Metro or the (oh so) trendy bikes in Paris , there are many more convenient (and less stressful) ways to get around Paris than driving. Well, as long as you don’t experience…

15- Transportation Strikes

Transportation strikes are not uncommon in Paris. While they are an absolute nuisance, the strikes are usually announced in advance and last a clearly defined period of time. Watch for signs announcing an upcoming strike, and ask your hotel front desk for additional information and guidance.

During one of my visits to Paris, a transportation strike hit the day I was scheduled to fly home. The hotel staff knew how to contact an independent Vietnamese cab driver who wasn’t striking, and I was able to get to the airport without any trouble!

READ MORE –    Transportation Strikes In France: Info, Dates, and Best Tips For Traveling To Paris

16- Be Mindful of Pickpockets in Paris

Just like you would in New York, Los Angeles, or any other major city around the world, be mindful of pickpockets when traveling to Paris for the first time.

You should be especially vigilant when exploring touristy areas, stopping to observe a street performer, and using mass transit. I recommend a small, cross-body bag for women or an anti-theft backpack in general.

Best Anti-Theft Travel Bags, Safe Travels, Secure Travel Bags, Best anti theft cross body travel bag, anti theft crossbody travel bag, Best theft proof travel bags, Best anti theft shoulder bag #travelgifts

Men, put your wallet in your front pocket. Split your cash and bank cards up, storing them in different pockets or bags. Do not walk around with your phone in your hand unless you’re using it at that moment to snap a photo or look something up.

I wish I didn’t know as many American friends and colleagues as I do who have had their cell phones, passports, or purses stolen by pickpockets in Paris. One seasoned American traveler friend’s instincts told her to wrap her arms around her cross-body purse when a small group of gypsies approached her by Notre Dame, tossing pieces of shredded paper in the air. It was only after another colleague shooed them away that she realized they had slipped her cell phone from her hand.

One of my Dutch colleagues had her phone lifted from a table at a sidewalk café while she was telling the others in her travel group about the importance of not leaving your phone on the table.

17- Typically Not a 24/7 World

While Americans from cities and towns of all sizes are fairly accustomed to extended hours at grocery stores, transportation counters, and pharmacies, this isn’t as common in Paris. 

Many businesses may be closed on Sundays and for local holidays. During the week, many stores will close by 6 pm.  Do your best to plan ahead, and always double-check the posted hours when visiting Paris.

18- It’s Okay to Skip the Sights That Don’t Interest You

Monet's studio in Giverny

Growing up, my artist mother dragged me to every art museum in Europe. While I absolutely loved taking a day trip from Paris to Claude Monet’s home in Giverny and taking another day trip to explore Auvers-Sur-Oise, where Vincent Van Gogh lived , I don’t think twice about skipping the sections of the Louvre that don’t appeal to me. Nor do I think twice about skipping the Louvre completely in lieu of the Musée d’Orsay.

When it comes to your Paris itinerary, “you do you” when visiting the city.

Visiting Paris as an American Tourist : What to Eat and Drink

19- expect mind-blowingly amazing food.

Escargots - Snails

While it is possible to find a bad meal in Paris, it’s pretty hard. From a traditional French breakfast with a buttery croissant to a jambon-beurre sandwich at lunch, from a terrine of cassoulet to a burnt sugar-topped crème brûlée , there are so many amazing foods to try when visiting Paris .

To increase your chances of an amazing meal, eat at Parisian bistros , little crêperies , or other local places away from the main attractions. Research your options online , read reviews, or ask a local contact for recommendations.

FUN FACT:   There are more types of French cheese than there are days in the year. Yum!

20- Request an English Menu

Paris Bistro

If one is not automatically offered to you, ask your server if they have an English menu. Most restaurants have a few available, and they are a helpful way to help you select your meal.

21- Washing It All Down

From water to beer, drinks in Paris are typically served without ice and at warmer temperatures than Americans expect at home.

Another drinkable difference is the concept of unlimited refills. This is very much an American phenomenon and not something you should expect if you are traveling to Paris from US.

I’ve read several theories about why there aren’t unlimited refills. One potential reason is that drinks in Paris are served from glass bottles rather than the huge fountain dispensers common in the US. Another potential reason is that the cost of using real sugar in soft drinks is more expensive than the high-fructose corn syrup consumed by the gallons in America. Either way, expect to be charged several Euros for a small bottle of soda in Paris (but water in Paris is safe to drink , and it’s totally free) and enjoy the quality of real sugar over the quantity of a Big Gulp.

22- Dinner is an Experience

coq au vin

Set aside plenty of time for dinner in Paris. It is a delicious experience that should be savored and not rushed. Additionally, expect dinner to be much later than the typical American 6 pm or 7 pm dinner time.

In Paris, most people eat dinner closer to 8 pm. And it can be even later in the summer months when the sun doesn’t set until well after 10 pm.

23- Seat Yourself

With the exception of bars, Americans are trained to wait and be seated by a hostess. But in Paris, you can generally seat yourself for drinks, refreshments, or meals at cafes and bistros.

Avoid any table with a reserved sign, and only sit at an open table set with silverware if you plan on eating. If you’re just grabbing a drink, opt for a table without silverware instead.

Parisian Cafe

24- Holler If You Need Anything

Because meals in Paris are social occasions, servers will not interrupt you every five minutes to ask if everything is okay. If you need something, simply make eye contact with your server or raise your hand to signal that you need something. It is rude to raise your voice or snap your fingers.

Most servers will also wait for your signal to bring the check. Earn bonus points by learning how to properly request the tab in French (l’addition, s’il-vous-plaît)!

25- A Tip About Tipping in Paris

While we tip a minimum of 15% at full-service restaurants in the US — in part to fully compensate wait staff who receive lower hourly wages — tipping is much less expected in Paris.

The wait staff at restaurants in Paris are fully compensated for their work, and the service is included in the prices listed on the bill. However, if you want to add a small tip for excellent service, it is appreciated by your server. Here are some tips for tipping in Paris .

Whether paying in cash or by card, your server will typically want to know what you’d like the total charge to be at the time of payment. If your bill is €22 and you want to add a €3 tip, simply tell the waiter €25 when you hand him your card or cash. 

Because Parisian waiters and waitresses know that American tourists in Paris tend to be generous tippers, it’s not uncommon for them to stamp “Service Not Included” on the receipt in English to try to increase the amount you’ll tip them. When in doubt, research the tipping customs for each country you plan to visit in advance.

Visiting Paris as an American Tourist: Paying for Things

26- always pay in euros when visiting paris .

travelling to paris advice

When swiping your debit or credit card to make a purchase, you may be asked if you’d like to pay in US dollars or in Euros. Always pick Euros, or you may unknowingly be charged an additional 3-5% for the “convenience” of having your purchase converted from euros to dollars.

27- Don’t Let Your Card Out of Your Sight

While Americans routinely slip their cards in bill portfolios that waiters whisk away to run at a register elsewhere in the restaurant, that doesn’t happen in Europe. The wait staff will always bring a portable reader to your table to settle up with you.

28- Carry Enough Cash

While just about every business in America, including some vending machines, accept debit and credit cards, some small businesses and eateries in Paris may have a €10-15 minimum.

To increase your motivation to carry at least a small amount of cash with you when visiting Paris, know that it’s usually not free to pee. That’s right. You may need to pay a small fee, either via a coin-operated entry door or to a restroom hostess, to use the restroom in Europe.

TIP: The first Euro bill is a €5. Everything else is in coin form, so you may want to take a small coin purse along, even the men.

Americans in Paris: Odds & Ends

29- 24 hours in a day.

Open 24 hours

Europeans use 24-hour time rather than AM and PM. Additionally, it’s typically written with the hour, the local language abbreviation for an hour, and the minutes. So what would be 4:24 pm here in Kansas City would be written as 16h24 in Paris. While it does take some getting used to, it’s simple to convert any afternoon time to PM by simply subtracting 12.

30- It’s a Date

In addition to using 24-hour time, dates follow a Day/Month/Year format in France rather than the Month/Day/Year format used most commonly in America.

31- Eight Days a Week

Unlike American calendars that start on Sunday and end on Saturday, French calendars typically start on Monday ( Lundi ) and end on Sunday ( Dimanche ).

32- A Logical Measurement System

Farewell confusing, archaic imperial measurement system based upon a dead king’s appendages. And hello, brilliantly logical metric system ! Prepare for temperatures in Celsius (not Fahrenheit), distances in kilometers (not miles), and one of those 365+ kinds of fromage weighed in kilos (not pounds).

33- Breathe Easy

Not only do the French consume more cigarettes per person than in the US, but also they are allowed to smoke in places not commonly allowed in the US.

As is widely the case across America, it is forbidden to smoke inside public places. But you should anticipate that you will encounter more cigarette smoke on patios, terraces, and in other public places than in the US.

Febreeze does a good job of reducing the lingering, second-hand smoke smell from the items you plan on wearing more than once — like pants, sweaters, and jackets.

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34- Making New Friends

Beyond France, most Europeans think Americans are super friendly. Maybe too friendly. If the situation feels right, don’t be shy about speaking to others. 

I made a new friend on the train between Paris and Normandy by striking up a conversation with the woman sitting across from me when she asked about my Dentyne gum. Nearly five years later, we still exchange Christmas cards. (Yes, I always include a packet of Dentyne gum).

However, don’t be like my middle-aged, first-time abroad co-worker who aggressively approached everyone he could — cab drivers, restaurant hostesses, train ticket agents — with a recurring soliloquy about where he was from, how wonderful America was, and how his great, great grandparents immigrated to the US from Croatia.

American Tourist in Paris: Coming Home

35- perishable items.

At some point, your first trip to Paris will come to an end. When that time comes, you’ll have to be sure you’ve fully consumed any perishable items that you carried on or received during your flight. This includes everything from fresh fruit to that one last amazing croissant.

36- Liquid Refreshment

If your initial destination in the US is not your final destination, be wise about purchasing wine, beer, spirits, perfume, or other liquids in the duty-free shop at the airport or on the plane.

If you are transferring to another flight within the US, you’ll have to collect your luggage and will want to immediately place these items in your checked baggage before sending them to your final destination. Otherwise, when you go back through security (yes, even though you don’t really leave the secure area), they will be confiscated. And nobody wants to see a beloved Bordeaux handed over to an airport security officer…

TIP:  Want to ensure your wine makes it home?  Click here for our guide to the best wine tote bags and wine suitcases specially designed for travel.

37- Anything to Declare?

Transportation from Paris Airports

Shortly before your Transatlantic flight lands back in America, flight attendants will distribute declaration forms. Read the form carefully and thoroughly before you start to complete it. There’s a very good chance that you won’t have anything to declare if the items you purchased abroad are for your personal use or gifts.

38- You Smell Suspicious

As you wait in line to officially re-enter the US, don’t be surprised if officers with drug and bomb-sniffing dogs are hard at work. (Aren’t you glad you’re returning home from visiting Paris for the first time and not Amsterdam?).

39- No Photos, Please

You are prohibited to have a cell phone or recording device out while you wait in line for your turn with a Customs and Border Protection officer. Watch for signs telling you to put your phone away, and know that they are absolutely serious about enforcing the rule.

When it’s your turn to submit your papers and passport for inspection, answer any questions in a simple, straightforward manner. The officer does not want to hear long-winded stories about visiting Paris. These officers can search you or your belongings without a warrant. Don’t give them a reason to do so.

40- When Visiting Paris for the First Time, Savor Every Moment

Whether you have a day, a week, or a month to explore Paris, you will not win a gold medal for rushing through your experiences. So slow down and savor every moment. It’s exactly what the French would do!

Paris is Always a Good Idea - Audrey Hepburn Quote

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Quirky parisian explorers with a preference for lesser-known sights, we are continuously looking for new ideas and tips to bring you the best of the city of light read more about us ., we’re elisa, norbert, valérie, and cédric, four travel bloggers and friends living in paris. quirky explorers with a preference for the local side of our city and its lesser-known sights, we are continuously looking for new ideas to enjoy the best of paris & around . do you want to go beyond the louvre museum or the eiffel tower keep clicking for first-hand information & our best tips learn more about us.

25 Tips for Traveling to Paris for the First Time

Tips for visiting Paris

These 25 travel tips for Paris will help you plan a great trip to this incredible city.

Planning a visit to Paris for a week, or even just a weekend? Whether you’ve been before or this is your first time, a few travel tips for Paris can go a long way to ensuring you have a great trip.

If you’re short on time, or you’ve just never been before, it can be a bit overwhelming. Paris is a big city with many landmarks to see, and experiences have. A few tips and a little advice can really go along way.

To help you explore the city of light with ease, I’ve put together these 25 Travel Tips for Paris.  I hope you find them useful and they make your trip easy as can be.

Some of the links in the post are affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links it helps to support this site at no extra cost to you.

Top 25 Travel Tips for Paris

Aerial view of Paris

This guide is intended to help make your first visit to Paris a memorable one.

I’ve included my best tips for visiting the city including tips for getting around, where to eat, and for visiting the city’s biggest attractions.

I’ve also included links to some of the most popular Paris tours up above.

1. Take the train from the airport

Paris Metro sign

The Paris metro is connected to the Charles de Gaulle airport, so it’s super easy to get into the city by train. You can find signs at the airport directing you to the train after the baggage claim.

Your metro ticket can be purchased just above the train platform before you head down to the trains. The ticket machines take both cash and credit cards. You can find more information on the various ticket prices here .

From Charles de Gaulle you’ll be looking for the RER train. These run every 15 minutes or so from about 5:00 a.m. to midnight. The trip from the airport to the city center (Gare du Nord station) will take about 25 minutes. 

2. Visit in the offseason

Paris in the fall

Paris is a popular destination for tourists, especially in the summer which is the height of the tourist season.

To avoid the big tourist crowds plan your visit to Paris for the spring or fall. You’ll be rewarded with shorter lines and lighter crowds. 

These travel tips for Paris can save you money too. Better airfare deals can be found in the off season and shoulder season.

Significanly lower hotel prices can be found as well, often as much as half the price of the peak tourist season.

3. Book your tickets for the Louvre ahead of time

Best photo spots in Paris - The Louvre

The Louvre is one of the most popular destinations in Paris for tourists and a visit is highly recommended. It gets extremely busy and the ticket lines are incredibly long. Do yourself a favor and book these online ahead of time. You can book your tickets here . 

This is one of my favorite travel tips for Paris. It’ll save you so much time and hassle, it’s worth the extra effort.

If you plan on visiting any other museums while you’re in Paris, consider purchasing the Paris Museum Pass . Depending on how long you’ll be in town and how many museums you plan to visit, the pass could save you a ton of money.

4. Plan to visit the Louvre at night

Paris travel tips

The Louvre is always going to be busy, but it’s much less busy in the evening. If at all possible, plan to visit the Louvre when they are open during the evening. You’ll have a better experience once inside. 

Plus, if you visit at night, it will be less of a hassle to view the Mona Lisa. Since there are lighter crowds in the evening, the area near the Mona Lisa will be less crowded. There will still be people there, but not as many.

5. Have a game plan

Before you arrive in Paris, you should spend some time figuring out what you want to see and do during your visit.

Try to prioritize so you can decide what you must do, and what could possibly wait for another time. This will give you some direction and eliminate time wasted figuring out what you want to do. 

Don’t forget to implement these travel tips for Paris as you put your itinerary together as well. They are meant to make your trip easier, so use them in your planning.

If you have the extra time, consider taking a day trip outside of Paris as well. There are plenty of lovely destinations just a short train ride away. Both Versailles and Reims are great options for day trips if you’re feeling adventurous.

6. Don’t skip the touristy things

Notre Dame in Paris

If you’re making your first trip to Paris don’t skip the major landmarks just because they are “too touristy.” These spots are popular for a reason, so don’t miss your chance to see the Louvre, the Sacre Coeur, Notre Dame, the Latin Quarter, or the Eiffel Tower.

If you get the chance to come back again, then you should skip those things and get to know the city outside of the major landmarks. 

Also, if you’re on a budget, consider purchasing a Paris Pass. Admission to many of the biggest attractions is included and the pass may save you some money on the cost of admission. You can find more information on the Paris Pass here .

7. Try the bread and pastries

Travel tips for Paris

These travel tips for Paris had to include a visit to the local bakeries, or boulangeries. Nobody makes bread like the French, so eat as much of it as you can.

Paris is known for making incredible bread, so don’t skip the opportunity to try the bread and pastries. My personal favorite is the pain au chocolate (chocolate croissant).

I get one of these every morning when in Paris. I also recommend the baguettes, they are fantastic and pair perfectly with cheese and wine. 

8. Get up early

Eden Fite sitting on a bench with the Eiffel Tower in the background

If you want to avoid the crowds and get some incredible photo opportunities, get up before everybody else.

To be more specific, this means to be up and out the door before 6:00 a.m. to that you can get to your first destination by 6:30.

There are not many others willing to get up this early, so you’ll be rewarded if you do. 

9. Get to the Sacre Coeur for sunrise

view of the Sacre Coeur from the stairs below

The Sacre Coeur sits on a large hillside overlooking Paris. There’s also a large platform in front of the cathedral that’s perfect for photos and watching the sunrise over the city.

This will also give you the chance to get pictures of the Sacre Coeur without other people in them.

Plus, the doors to the inside of the cathedral open at 6:00 a.m., so you can have the place to yourself for a while. Admission to the Sacre Coeur is free of charge.

10. Dress nicely

Eden wearing a black dress at the Trocadero in Paris with the Eiffel Tower in the background on a rainy day

During your visit to Paris, you’re going to have tons of opportunities for photos. Try to wear something comfortable but also something that you think looks nice on you.

You don’t want to be underdressed in Paris. You also don’t want to be disappointed with your pictures when you return home. So plan ahead and wear something cute!

11. Explore the arrondissements

Paris is divided into 20 arrondissements or neighborhoods. The 1st Arrondissement is found in the city center where the Louvre is.

The remaining 19 arrondissements spiral out from there. If you have the chance to explore the arrondissements away from the tourist zones, you should definitely do it.

The architecture in Paris is beautiful. You’ll find tons of great scenery, local cafes, trendy galleries, etc., if you get off the beaten path a little and do some real exploring.

12. Try the steak and fries at Le Relais de l’Entrecote

Exterior shot of Le Relais de L'Entrecote

This restaurant has no menu, they serve just one thing. If you want the best steak and fries in Paris, this is where you go.

Your meal will come with an appetizer salad and two servings of fries and steak, otherwise known as steak frites, covered in a delicious green sauce.

They do not take reservations and the line will get long, but it moves fast. To expedite the experience, I recommend arriving right when they open. 

13. Bring your good camera

Camera sitting on a tripod - tips for visiting Paris

Paris is a beautiful city full of iconic landmarks. If ever there was a time for the expensive camera to come out, it’s during a trip to Paris. 

If you’re a good photographer or you just love to take pictures, take my advice and get up early while you’re in town. The earlier you get up, the better the pictures you will get.

What I like least about Paris is the crowds, but if you get an early start, it’s usually not a problem.

14. Learn key phrases in French

You’ll want to spend some time before your trip learning a few key phrases in French. Even if your pronunciation is terrible, your efforts will go along way. At the very least, learn to say hello, goodbye, please, thank you, sir and ma’am. 

Baically, when you enter a store or restaurant, you should always speak French when greeting the store owner, staff, or server. If that is the extent of your French, you can ask if they speak English after that.

Of all these 25 travel tips for Paris, please take this one to heart. Give the language a try and always be polite. Trust me, your efforts will be appreciated.

15. Greet the store owner and others when you enter a business

Travel tips for Paris

In France, it is customary to say hello and greet the store owner or employees when you enter a business. At the very least you should say bonjour (hello). 

Even if your pronunciation is way off the mark, a smile will always go a long way. Be friendly and polite and you’ll be just fine.

16. Book a walking tour

Best photo spots in Paris - Cremieux Street (Rue Cremieux), Paris, France. Rue Cremieux in the 12th Arrondissement is one of the prettiest residential streets in Paris. Colored houses in Rue Cremieux street in Paris. France. (Cremieux Street (Rue Cremieux), Paris, France. Rue Cremieux

If you’d like to learn more about some of the landmarks or attractions in Paris, consider booking a tour.

There are dozens of tour companies operating in the city with something for any budget. I personally recommend Take Walks . They have excellent well-informed guides and you’ll learn a lot. 

17. Get macarons from Laduree

An assortment of colorful Macarons on a table

If you’re a fan of macarons you know that France makes them best. Take advantage of your trip to Paris by grabbing a few boxes of these to bring back home.

There are several locations throughout the city and even one at the airport. These make a great gift to bring loved ones back home. 

18. Sample the champagne

Champgane tasting - Experiences in Paris

Considering you’re in France, where real champagne is made, you might as well seize the opportunity to try as much of it as you can. Use this list of the best places to drink champagne in Paris to get you started. 

19. Take a River Seine dinner cruise

River cruise on the Seine

There are several companies offering dinner cruises on the River Seine. They are not quite as expensive as you’d think and provide a really unique way to experience the city.

The cruises typically last anywhere from 90 minutes to two and half hours depending on which one you select. Prices start around $80. Check out Seine Cruises for more information. 

Of all my travel tips for Paris, this is one of my favorites!

20. Get tickets to the top of the Eiffel Tower

View from the top of the Eiffel Tower

If this is your first visit to Paris, be sure you plan to visit the Eiffel Tower and make reservations to go to the top.

The view from the upper deck is incredible and gives you a view of the entire city. If it’s your first time in Paris it’s totally worth it.

If you can, I recommend making your reservation for around sunset. You can thank me later. 

21. Experience the nightlife

3 colorful cocktails on a table

There are many great wine bars and lounges in Paris and I encourage you to head out to at least a few of them. Check out this list to get you started. 

22. Use Google Maps to navigate the city

Paris at night

Google Maps will help you figure out how to get from one place to the next while your out exploring the city.

You can use the app to determine the walking distance between two places and also get the transit directions. It will even tell you how long it will take you to get there. 

23. Book a hotel in the city center

Travel tips for Paris

IF you’ll be spending a few days in Paris, make sure to book your hotel in a central location near the city center.

Paris hotels closest to the Louvre tend to be the most expensive, but you can find better deals just a bit further out but still in a central location.

If you get too far away from the city center, you’ll be wasting too much time commuting back and forth. 

24. Catch a show at the Moulin Rouge

Moulin Rouge in Paris

If you’re feeling adventurous and don’t mind splurging a bit, consider getting tickets to a show at the Moulin Rouge for a late-night cabaret.

I recommend getting tickets for the 11:00 p.m. show because they are a little less expensive. If you plan to attend the Moulin Rouge, be sure to make reservations online ahead of time.

Tickets will cost approximately 100 Euro to 200 Euro per person, depending on if you want dinner included, VIP tickets, or regular admission. 

25. Slow down and just enjoy this beautiful city

Notre Dame, Paris

Don’t stress yourself out with trying to see absolutely everything during your visit to Paris.

You’ll have a better time and enjoy the experience more if you just relax and enjoy the moment. You can always come back again another time if there’s more you want to see or do. 

26. Consider purchasing travel insurance

Instagrammable spots in Paris - Montmartre

If you’ll be participating in any particularly adventurous activities, you may wish to consider purchasing travel insurance for your visit to Paris.

Accidents can happen anytime and anywhere. So if you prefer to be on the safe side, you may want to purchase travel insurance before you depart for your trip.

Especially if you will be traveling for an extended period of time or visiting multiple countries.

I use World Nomads, but you there are many other travel insurnce companies to choose from.

27. Have a picnic along the River Seine

Picnic on the River Seine

Another uniquely Parisian activity is to have a picnic along the Seine River. This has long been a popular activity for locals, but tourists have been catching on in recent years as well.

The easiest way to do this is to just grab a baguette and some cheese at a local bakery. Don’t forget to grab a bottle of wine on your way out. 🙂

If you’d like something a bit more fancy, there are several companies that do French inspired picnic baskets as well. Most will deliver these right to your hotel or picnic location. A quick Google search will lead the way.

28. Avoid tourist scams

Two men playing chess at a table on the street

Things may not always be what they seem.

When you’re walking around near major tourist destinations or landmarks in the city, be mindful of the obvious tourist scams that can take place in the area.

You’ll find people trying to take advantage of unsuspecting tourists near places like the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre.

Paris is completely safe for the most part, just use common sense. Don’t agree to play card or dice games on the street with strangers for example.

This should be obvious, but everytime I’m in Paris I see people falling for this. I don’t get it, but please don’t give these people your money.

I hope you’ve enjoyed my 25 Travel Tips for Paris. Let me know if I’ve missed anything in the comments below. 

If you happen to be in Paris on a layover and are wondering how to spend a short time in the city, check out my 12 Hours in Paris post for some destination ideas when you’re short on time.

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Tips For Traveling To Paris For The First Time

by Melissa Giroux | Last updated May 12, 2022 | Europe , France , Travel Tips

If you’re traveling to Paris for the first time , here are my top tips for a successful first time in the city!

This article will answer questions like: how many days should you spend in Paris, things to do around Paris, and top tips for visiting Paris without going insane from the long lines! Make the most of your first time in Paris, and be prepared for a fantastic journey!

Traveling to Paris for the First Time | What to Expect

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Best of Paris | Things to do in Paris | Visit Paris

Visiting Paris for the first time can be pretty intimidating. First, Paris is huge, and the top attractions are quite far from each other, making it harder to travel around the city.

Of course, if you don’t speak French, your trip to Paris might even get more complicated! But don’t worry, I’m planning on helping you out. I’ve been to Paris 7 or 8 times, and I’m happy to share my top tips for tourists in Paris with you!

Yes, they speak French. No, you don’t have to speak French.

Of course, French people speak French! Although, I noticed that many people pity English speakers when they try speaking with their broken French. If you learn a few essential words, you’ll make the locals happy, and they are likely to help you out!

Paris is always a good idea!

You’ll soon realize how big the city is and how great the food is! Paris is the kind of city where I can constantly go without getting bored of it! Every single time I see a new neighborhood or a new spot! The city is massive, and there’s a lot to love about it!

That being said, you won’t be the only one out there! Paris can get super busy during the summertime, which means that all the main attractions will be crowded!

Although, I’d add that it’s not overwhelming. I’m repeating myself, but Paris is enormous, and even though it’s crowded, it doesn’t feel super crowded! There are ways to avoid crowds by entering one of the several parks or simply getting out of the city for a day trip!

Is Paris expensive?

Of course, like any other western European capital, Paris isn’t cheap at all! As the city is huge, you should invest in a public transportation card for a day or a few days, depending on how long you plan to stay!

You can go to the grocery shop to cook your food, or you could also survive with the excellent bakeries found around Paris. Other than that, bread, a bit of cheese and a bottle of wine aren’t that expensive!

How Many Days to Spend in Paris, France?

Is it your first trip to Paris?  How many days should you go to Paris if it’s your first time? Well, there’s no right or wrong answer here!

You can easily go for a weekend or two weeks! It depends on your interests, and how fascinated, you are with this beautiful city! Don’t worry; you can still make the most of Paris even if you’re only spending a short weekend there!

Best of Paris | Things to do in Paris | Visit Paris

Tips for visiting Paris, France | Make the Most of Your Trip!

Things to do around paris | 3 days in paris itinerary.

There’s a lot to see in Paris! You can read this full guide to Paris, including the top spots in Paris and the most famous landmarks in France . You can also check out this 2 days in Paris itinerary .

Now, let’s pretend you’re planning on doing a short 3 days in Paris !

If it’s your first visit, you should go for some Paris sightseeing! The Eiffel Tower should be on your list, but if you’re planning on crossing off the Parisian bucket list, you should also check out the Louvre, the Catacombs, and Versailles!

If you’re on a tight schedule (or not), you should know that these attractions also come with long queues! Being patient isn’t enough, and believe me; you don’t want to waste your time, do you?

Let me introduce you to The Paris Guy!

The Paris Guy actually comes from Rome! They started in Italy, and now they are launching their tours in Paris! Imagine many people coming from different parts of the world who visited Rome (or in this case, Paris) and decided to stay longer… and move there! (#GOALS)

Their team counts passionate, funny, and fun guides! You have to look at their website to feel a young and energetic vibe! In 2018, they launched their Paris tours, and they currently have three options available!

Bonus: They will help you skip the lines! Their groups are small, they have some of the best tour guides, and they always try to show you something unique and different in all these pretty famous places!

They are launching three tours that would allow you to discover Paris like never before! Here’s an overview of their tours and why you should consider touring with them on your next trip to Paris!

Paris The Louvre Tour – Skip the line | Tips for Visiting the Louvre

The Louvre Paris Tour

The Louvre is known as the most significant art museum worldwide! Some travelers can easily spend a whole week discovering every corner of the Louvre!  If you’re on a tight schedule, three hours should be enough!

The Paris Guy offers you a unique twist: Skip the Line Magnificant Louvre Tour in Paris .  Their small group and their fantastic guides will show you some of the best masterpieces in the museums and the famous ones!

You should bring comfortable shoes, some water, and a snack!

Paris Catacombs Tour – Skip the line | Tips for Visiting the Catacombs

Catacombs Paris Tour

The Paris Catacombs are definitely something different to see while in Paris. It’s a bit creepy, but it’s worth a visit. Imagine walking amongst tons of bones and learning about the world’s largest grave!

The Paris Guy offers you a unique twist: Skip the Line Paris Catacombs Tour .  Their small group and their excellent guides will share some of the darkest secrets of Paris.  Who knew how dark Paris could be when we all think about lights and romantic vibes!

You should bring comfortable shoes and an extra layer (it can get cold down there!).

Paris Versaille Tour – Skip the line | Tips for Visiting Versailles

Versaille Palace Paris Tour

The Palace of Versailles is just outside of Paris and is one of the main attractions around the city of lights. The palace is massive and is surrounded by gardens. It’s a great way to learn more about Parisian history.

The Paris Guy offers a special twist: Golden Versailles Palace and Garden Tour . Getting to Versailles can be a nightmare, so the Paris Guy picks you up to bring you safely to your destination. Their tour includes both the palace and the vast gardens!

You should bring comfortable shoes, a bottle of water and a snack!

Where to Stay in Paris, France – For the First Time

If you’re planning a trip around Paris, you might get overwhelmed by the number of neighborhoods. It can be a mission to find the right spot as most attractions are far from each other.

You could try to plan your itinerary and look at the options that make sense for you.  Otherwise, anything around a metro station would be a great idea!

My personal favorites are Gare du Nord, Montmartre , and Canal St-Martin.  

Budget options: St-Christopher’s Inn Gare du Nord & St-Christopher’s Inn Canal

Mid-Range options: Villa des Iris & Hotel de la Mare

Luxury options: Sourire Boutique Hotel & Ateliers de Montmartre

Browse Hotels In Paris

What to Pack for Paris, France | Top 3 Essentials for Paris

Paris is an incredible destination no matter what season it is. It can be quite hot in the summer and the winter can also be super cold! Here are my top 3 essentials when it comes to Packing in Paris!

Tripod/Selfie Stick

When you visit Paris, there are many photography opportunities! If you’re traveling alone, you might need a tripod or a selfie-stick to be able to take these great shots! Learn more about my favorite  GoPro accessories.

Comfortable Shoes

When in Paris, you will likely walk everywhere! Even the museums or palaces require you to walk a lot! Make sure you stay comfortable while exploring!

You might want to bring a daypack to carry your valuables and an extra layer, a bottle of water, and snacks. There’s so much to see in Paris that you will likely be out all day!

With luggage storage locations sprinkled throughout the city, you should never have to return to your accommodation if you want a packed day.

You should also keep in mind that Paris is a fashionable city and you might want to bring your nicest clothes with you! Every time I visited Paris, I felt underdressed!

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20 Paris travel tips & hacks | First-timers in Paris

Things to do in Paris Paris Travel Guide Paris Travel Tips

The ‘City of Lights’ Paris attracts travelers like a moth to a flame. Backpackers, family tourists, solo travelers, or luxury travelers, Paris is alluring to everyone. While Paris is as touristy as it gets, it is also home to more than 2 million Parisians across all economic strata, which means there is always a way to explore Paris that suits your style and budget. This guide will help you with travel tips that the locals swear by! From how to navigate tourist traps in Paris to how to save money on transport, food, and accommodation, these Paris travel tips will help you explore Paris like a local. Start making notes and use these tips before your trip to Paris.

Paris Essentials

Starting with the essentials, here's what you must know before getting to Paris. Make sure you pack the right travel adapters. Also, brush your French a bit.

Language French

Time zone GMT+2

Country Code +33

Socket Type C,E

Currency Euros €

Best Time To Visit Paris

April to June, October to early November

The best time to visit Paris is during the months from April to June, and from October to early November. This period encapsulates the best of Paris, and the weather is pleasant where a coat and scarf are enough to keep you comfortable, and there are enough events to keep you occupied, while the crowds are thin enough to enjoy it all! However, Paris is an all-year-round destination, and summer from June to September is a great time to be outdoors and enjoy summer festivities. Winters in Paris are tough, but the magic of Christmas and cheap rates on everything from flights to hotels will entice you to visit Paris. Here is a complete guide on the best time to visit Paris .

Paris in Jan

Paris Travel Tips 101 - A First Timer's Holy Grail

Below are the tips and hacks you're here for. Read on and thank me later!

#1 ATMS > Currency Exchange

ATMs are the safest and cheapest way to withdraw money in Paris. The best place to withdraw money is at the airport and there are 25 ATMs or ‘distributeurs’ across all the terminals. Check the ATM withdrawal rates with your bank; they are often cheaper than the commission charged by the currency exchange counters.

#2 Credit Cards need a chip and a pin

Paris establishments require you to use credit cards or debit cards with a chip and pin, the magnetic strip cards will not work. Also, Visa is preferred and easily accepted over MasterCard, so carry one of each if you can. Get a toll-free number of your credit card customer care and ensure that you have activated your international usage prior to your trip.

#3 Be cash-ready but not a hoarder

Most Parisian establishment accept cards for transactions for over €10, however you will need cash for smaller transactions and for other things like tipping and street shopping. Avoid carrying too much cash on you as it’s not safe, especially around tourist attractions like Eiffel Tower which is rife with pickpockets. Carry the cash in a money belt and only carry enough for the day, keep the rest at the hotel.

#4 Get travel insurance to stay worry-free

Medical emergencies can be expensive in Europe and travel insurance is the best way to cover for any emergencies. If you are in any emergency you can call 112 or 15 if it’s a medical emergency. Paris also has a great on-call doctor system called SOS Medecins , where you can call 01 47 07 77 77 for a consultation within an hour.

#5 A meal at the Eiffel Tower is true to its hype

Paris Travel Tips - First Timers

The Eiffel Tower is a must visit tourist attraction on every traveler’s bucket list. Go beyond just visiting the top of the tower; instead have a lunch or dinner at one of the restaurants in the Eiffel Tower – Le 58 Tour Eiffel and Le Jules Verne. You not only get access to the top of the tower but skip the line and enjoy exclusive elevator to the restaurants.

Read more about dining at the Eiffel Tower here .

#6 Best views of Paris are not from the Eiffel Tower!

Paris Travel Tips - First Timers

The views from the Eiffel Tower are breathtaking no doubt, but what is a skyline without its best landmark in the view? One of the best places to view Paris with the Eiffel Tower is from the Arc De Triomphe. Catch the sight of the city roads radiating from the monument and the Eiffel standing proud in the distance from the rooftop of the Arc de Triomphe!

Read more about visiting Arc De Triomphe and the best time to visit the historical monument.

travelling to paris advice

Top 20 Instagrammable Places in Paris

#7 the catacombs are certainly not on the off-beat path.

Paris Travel Tips - First Timers

The dark, skeleton-filled catacombs under the city of Paris attract tourists from all over the world. The catacombs are often advertised as an offbeat tourist attraction but one look at the winding lines outside you will realize it’s not so! The only way to visit them is book skip-the-line tickets in advance.

Here are a few tips to skip the lines at Paris Catacombs .

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46 Experiences You Cannot Miss Out In Paris

#8 go beyond the city lights of paris.

Paris is spectacular but there is a wealth of natural and architectural beauty in the neighbouring districts. Mont St. Michel , Versailles , Giverny , Normandy , Reims , Loire Valley and Disneyland Paris are excellent options to go on day trips from Paris. A guided tour is the most time and cost effective to explore these destinations.

Check out the best day trips from Paris

#9 Don’t let the Louvre overwhelm you with its size

Paris Travel Tips - First Timers

The Louvre in Paris is the largest art museum in the world and holds more than 35,000 works of art including the famed Mona Lisa. It would take you weeks to even whiz past all the artworks and more than an hour just to take a peek at the Mona Lisa! Don’t get over-ambitious and plan well to view all the must-see artworks at the Louvre.

#10 The Paris Pass gives you free transport

The Paris metro is one of the best transportation systems in the world. The average distance between any two metro stations is about 560m which means you are never far away from one! The best way to use the metro is buy a 10-pack ticket or use the Paris Pass for free transport. If you are using a physical ticket make sure to keep it on you till you exit the station.

#11 Don’t be early for dinner!

The dinner service at Parisian restaurants starts late, only around 7:30 PM. Also, most restaurants close between the lunch and dinner service, which means if you solely depend on restaurants you will need to plan your meals well. Don’t forget to reserve tables at high-end restaurants, in summer many famous restaurants are booked weeks in advance!

#12 Tipping is not compulsory but desirable

Restaurants add a service charge to your bill but that does not go to the servers, so in case you are happy with your bill you can tip 10% of your bill to the server. At cafes and bars, you can leave the change or €1- €2 for the service. But just know that fast service does not constitute good service, the French love to have leisurely meals.

#13 Be nice to people and say Bonjour!

Good manners are indispensable anywhere but the French do like niceties, especially in French. It is ideal to wish shopkeepers, restaurateurs and any service folks with a Bonjour (Hello). Some of the other phrases you can use are Merci (Thank You), S’il vous plait (Please), and Excusez-Moi (works for Excuse Me and Sorry).

#14 Steer clear of friendship bracelets and other tourist scams

Yes, the French are nice but Paris is not completely bereft of the occasional scamsters! Despite being well-known online the Sacre Coeur bracelet scam continues. You might come across people who will tie a bracelet and ask for money, just don’t interact with them. Other things to look out for are the petitioners in the Tuileries Garden, cup and ball games at Champs-de-Mars and Gold Ring search at the River Seine.

#15 Save, not splurge on designer wear

Paris is the fashion capital of the world and you might want to catch up on the latest fashion styles. Unless you have a bottomless credit card, you might want to consider shopping smartly. Choose to shop at consignment stores or discount stores in Paris, some of them are – Reciproque, Arlettie, Misentroc, Alternatives, Rue Alesia, Saint Pierre Fabric Market, and Rue de Paradis.

#16 The arrondissement of your choice makes a difference

Paris is divided into 20 arrondissements or neighbourhoods and all of them have their unique atmosphere. While many tourists prefer living close to tourist attractions to avoid long travel, thanks to the public transport system in Paris you don’t have to worry about it. You can save money by staying in Airbnb or hotels outside upscale areas, and still commute within 30 minutes from anywhere in Paris!

#17 Save money and time with a tourist pass

If you are in Paris for more than a day then a pass is the best way to save 30%-50% on the cost of sightseeing. The city has three passes – Paris Pass , Paris Museum Pass and Paris Fast Pass – that offers a combination of skip the line access to attractions, museums and free transport. Here is a comparison of all the passes to help you decide which one to choose.

#18 Walk the cobbled streets of Paris

Paris is a beautiful city to walk, especially in the spring and summer. Whether it is a walk along the Seine, or the Champs-Elysees, you will enjoy soaking in the views. A walking tour is the best way to explore the city as it offers an interesting narration of the sights plus a unique perspective. If you are on a tight budget, you can opt for free walking tours that several hostels in the city offer.

#19 Contrary to popular notion, kids love Paris

Paris is touted as a romantic city but it is also a favorite family destination and there is a lot you can do with kids. Here are just some of your choices to keep the kids happy – Disneyland Paris, Jardin d'Acclimation, Paris Wax Museum, Science and Industry Museum, Jardin Des Plantes Menagerie, beaches of Paris Plages, Balloon de Paris, L’Aquarium de Paris, and the Paris Police Museum.

#20 Leave some breathing space in your itinerary

Paris Travel Tips - First Timers

There is so much to do in Paris that you will need months to fully view, experience and do everything in the city! Which is why no matter how much time you have, set aside time in the city to just sit at a cafe, drink a leisurely coffee and watch the world go past by. Take a walk along the Seine or sit on the lawns of the many Jardins in the city and soak in the beauty that is Paris.

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First Timer’s Paris Travel Guide 2022

Tips for saving money on transportation in paris.

  • Paris has one of the best public transportation systems amongst European cities. All of its 20 arrondissements can be accessed by an elaborate network of Metro, RER, Tram, Bus, Night Bus and Taxis. You can read more about the Paris public transportation .
  • Uber is cheaper than hailing private taxis off the street in Paris. There are also other apps competing with Uber like Taxi G7 and Kapten that you can use. However, avoid taking a taxi to the airport as it’s costly and chances of getting stuck in traffic are high.
  • Bus or the RER is the cheapest way to get to and fro from the Charles De Gaulle Airport. The Airport has two train stations on the B3 line of the RER, and for less than €12 you can reach the airport.
  • Self-driving or renting a car is an exciting way to explore Europe. It is ideal if you wish to take day-trips from Paris, but if all you want to do is explore the metropolitan area of Paris then avoid renting a car. Parking fees are high and many monuments do not have exclusive parking spaces and you will have to park elsewhere and walk a lot.
  • Vélib ' is the bike-sharing system in Paris that is ideal to commute for short distances. There are more than 1,000 docking stations and over 20,000 bikes in circulation. You have the choice of choosing between mechanical and electric bikes, and can purchase a 1 day or 7 day pass with rides that start from €5.
  • No trip to Paris is complete with a cruise on the River Seine. The best way to save money on the cruise is by using a combo pass that offers the river cruise on a discount or to buy a Paris Hop On Hop Off pass that offers a free river cruise.

Tips for Saving Money on Food in Paris

  • ‘Prix fixe’ or set menus are a great way to save on money while eating out in Paris. Most restaurants, even Michelin-star restaurants offer set lunch menus during the weekdays (Mondays – Fridays).
  • Whether your goal is to travel sustainably or save money, you can avoid buying bottled water while in Paris. You can ask for a ‘carafe’ of tap water for the table, it is safe to drink and free!
  • Street food is the savior of backpackers worldwide and Paris is no different. From falafels to sandwiches you will find everything on the streets of Paris, and you can find them here - Rue des Rosiers in Jewish Quarter, Marché Saint-Honoré, Rue du Faubourg, in Saint Denis, Marché couvert Saint-Quentin and Avenue de France.
  • The best thing about Paris is its bakeries or boulangeries, which serve fresh and delicious breads, cheeses and deli items. You can get a quick and filling meal for less than €5 and even eat it on the go.
  • Don’t spend a lot of money on booking the breakfast supplement at your hotel or hostel. Instead, save money by heading to the corner store and getting a fresh croissant and coffee for breakfast.
  • Paris is full of tourist traps and none are more apparent than in the restaurant business. You will find lots of restaurants around tourist attractions with menus displayed outside in multiple languages, and servers inviting you in for a meal. Avoid these places as they are expensive and rarely offer good food.
  • Dinner rates at restaurants are usually higher than lunch rates in Paris. If you wish to splurge then lunch is when you do it. Also, it might be tempting to order a bottle of wine while at a restaurant but it’s cheaper to just order a pitcher/carafe of the house wine. Desserts and wines in Paris are best left to be experienced at specialty stores.

More Tips To Save Money In Paris

  • Airbnbs should be your first choice – Tourist accommodation has become a lucrative business and large organizations have started taking over Airbnbs in Paris. If you are looking for cheap and authentic stays, then opt to stay in an apartment with the locals, where you can be assured of a Parisian experience.
  • Visit museums for free – All the museums in Paris offer free entry on the first Sunday of each month. The downside is that it attracts a lot of crowd and you will end up wasting more time in queues.
  • Save money with online booking – Online booking of tourist attractions saves money in the forms of discounts, cashbacks and coupons, plus includes perks like skip the line access and reservation of entry slots. You can also avoid paying full amount at the ticket counters and save spending in cash or risk using credit cards.
  • Attend free concerts and festivals – Summer is the most expensive time of the year in Paris, but you can save money on entertainment by attending the free summer concerts, events and festivals. Some of them are – Fete de la Musique, Futur en Seine, Rendez-vous aux jardins, Cinéma en plein air festival, Paris Plages, and Les Pestacles.
  • Buy local SIM instead of international roaming – International roaming on many networks can cost a bomb and cause a dent in your budget. Instead, you can purchase a local SIM card in Paris and save money on data and phone calls. Some of the local phone networks that offer good services are Bouygues Telecom, Orange, SFR, LeFrenchMobile, and Free Mobile.

Top 10 Things To Do in Paris

I'm sure you have your itinerary all sorted, but here are my top 10 favourites in Paris. If any of these are missing from your itinerary, make sure you squeeze them in! There are a few recommended tours for each attraction, so if you haven't grabbed tickets as yet, now would be a great time.

1 Eiffel Tower

The Eiffel Tower, one of the most famous monuments in Paris, is a must-see for any trip to the city. The 300-meter wrought iron lattice tower was built in 1889 for the World's Fair, and it is a prominent symbol of France's industrial might.

travelling to paris advice

2 Louvre Museum

The Louvre Museum in Paris is the most-visited and biggest art museum in the world. The magnificent French Baroque structure on the right bank of the river Seine in Paris is an excellent illustration of Baroque architecture. The museum, best known as home to Mona Lisa, houses the world's greatest art collection.

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3 Seine River Cruises

Only on a Seine River cruise can you discover the Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, Pantheon, and other top attractions in Paris. This spectacular trip that is unlike any other will take you through the history of Paris via a relaxing journey. Whether you like seeing things from a different viewpoint by sipping champagne while taking in the amorous ambiance of the City of Lights or want to explore more deeply with an expert local guide, Seine River cruises are perfect for travelers who enjoy being treated royally while experiencing the best of everything

travelling to paris advice

4 Disneyland Paris

Disneyland Paris, there is something for everyone to enjoy! Themed lands filled with special attractions, shows, and characters abound. There is truly something for every member of the family to enjoy at this spectacular resort destination.There are two theme parks at Disneyland Paris- Disneyland Park and Walt Disney Studios Park.

travelling to paris advice

5 Paris Cabaret

From the Moulin Rouge's iconic red windmill to the steamy velvet interior of Crazy Horse, stepping into one of Paris' most famed cabaret clubs is like stepping into another dimension. A cabaret experience goes far beyond what a regular live performance can give, with Vegas-style glitz, a sultry 1920s ambience, and a line-up of the most beautiful performers in the city.

travelling to paris advice

6 Day Trips from Paris

There are many things to do and see on day excursions from Paris, with magnificent castles, stunning cathedrals, beautiful countryside, culinary experiences, and modern theme parks. Whether you're in Paris for a few days or a local looking for a unique getaway, here's a list of the finest day excursions from Paris for an unforgettable experience.

travelling to paris advice

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How long should I stay in Paris to make the best of my visit?

4-5 days is a good amount of time for first-timers to enjoy some traditional Parisian activities and see a few of the 20 arrondissements.

What are the things I should avoid doing in Paris?

In Paris, never buy tickets for attractions and shows on the day of the event. You should also avoid taking] pictures in Paris’ famous Shakespeare And Company bookstore. And, never assume people speak English just because it’s the capital!

Can I drink the tap water in Paris?

According to the World Health Organization, French, EU, and worldwide norms (WHO), Paris tap water is deemed safe to consume

Is there anyway I can budget my Paris trip?

You can foresee the average costs for your Paris trip by using the budgetyourtrip tool.

Is Paris safe for solo female travellers?

Paris is a popular tourist destination and a safe and easy country to visit. Women who travel alone will generally feel secure almost every place they go.

Does Paris have a good nightlife?

The Paris nightlife scene is flourishing, and a Parisian nightlife experience is second to none! From trendy to traditional, and everything in between, Paris offers clubs, cabarets, and all-night parties — not to mention the time of your life during a night out in Paris.

What are the best places to visit in Paris?

The best places to visit in Paris are: -Eiffel Tower. -Musee d'Orsay. -The Louvre. -The Arc de Triomphe. -Dine at street café

What's the best time to visit Paris?

The best time to visit Paris is from June to August and September to October.

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Lakshmi Menon

Born to parents bit by the wander bug, Lakshmi calls her love for travel "hereditary and habitual". Perpetually ensconced with a book in her hand and a mug of coffee in the other, she has been to over 15 countries in her 23 years of existence and is currently saving miles and money for her solo trip to Iceland. Always hustling towards the least trodden path, she has encountered some wonderful people during her escapades and if you ever meet her, she won't stop gushing about them.

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Traveling to Paris for the First Time (2024): Tips & Tricks

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: February 19, 2024

Traveling to Paris for the First Time (2024): Tips & Tricks

Are you visiting Paris, France for the first time and wondering what to expect? Planning a trip to Paris might be overwhelming, especially if you only have a few days and want to make the most of it.

There are so many questions… How much time do you need in Paris? What to see and how to plan your time? Do you need to book anything/everything in advance? When to visit and how to avoid the biggest crowds? Where to stay? …

In this guide, you’ll find answers to these and other questions that you will want to know when traveling to Paris for the first time.

From when to visit, for how long, and where to stay, to some essential travel tips that will save you time and money. I hope that our experience-based tips will not only help you plan your trip to Paris but will also help to avoid disappointment and have a more memorable travel experience.

Take a look!

Top 5 Experiences in Paris:

  • Sainte Chapelle .
  • River Seine Cruise .
  • The Louvre .
  • Eiffel Tower .
  • Moulin Rouge Show (book well in advance!).

Visiting Paris, France - travel tips and useful information for first time travelers

These are our travel tips for visiting Paris:

1. Prepare your itinerary & book timed-entry tickets

One of the most important tips I can give you when planning a visit to Paris is to do your homework and prepare (an approximate) itinerary in advance. Unless you have more than a week in the city, planning in advance is really the only way to make sure that you see everything you want to.

Doing at least some research will also allow you to make the most of your time in Paris and save the unnecessary stress and queuing.

For example, while many of the popular landmarks are open daily, some others have at least one closing day per week. Furthermore, many places work with timed-entry tickets or simply skip-the-line tickets and they always get priority over the regular queue.

Some other sites cap the number of daily visitors and there’s a good chance that you won’t be able to visit if you didn’t book in advance (a good example is Paris Catacombs ). The same counts for the most popular cabaret shows (such as Moulin Rouge ) which often sell out weeks in advance.

Good to know: If you are traveling to Paris in the summer 2024, you probably already know that the city will be hosting the Olympic Games. So it’s going to be even busier than usual and it’s even more important to book everything as soon as you know your travel dates!

So do your research in advance and be sure to book tickets for those landmarks and experiences that you absolutely don’t want to miss. In addition, you may also consider getting the Paris Museum Pass (more info further below).

TIP: Indicate the places that you want to see on a map and try to see how you can group some of the landmarks and visit them on the same day. That way you save time and also avoid unnecessary commutes.

Good to know: We highly recommend booking tickets/tours for Paris via GetYourGuide . This reputable website is now the best one-stop-shop for all tickets and tours and we use it on all our trips (not just in Europe). It’s so much simpler than having to create multiple accounts on different websites (some Paris landmarks really make it unnecessarily complicated for tourists), and you have free cancelation on almost all tickets. Some attraction tickets are not available via them; in that case, we use and recommend Tiqets .

We also love insider tours by TakeWalks . They always explore deeper and offer something unique (we have been on their tours in Paris, but also in several other places in Italian cities , Seville , Barcelona , etc. and they are always excellent).

Also, on our recent trip to Paris, we saw that some major attractions had signs indicating they will not accept tickets bought via Viator (and people were indeed forced to buy new tickets and try to get a refund from Viator). I don’t know what Viator has done to upset Parisian attractions, but based on most recent customer reviews for some top attractions, I see that it’s still an ongoing issue at the time of the last update to this article. So it’s just one more reason to book via GetYourGuide or Tiqets .

READ ALSO: Paris in 4 Days (itinerary with all the musts & more) & Paris in 1 Day (must-sees)

Get Your Guide tour flag in Versailles Palace, Paris, France

2. Consider getting the Paris Museum Pass

A good way to save some money when visiting some of the best-known museums and landmarks in Paris is to buy a multi-day Paris Museum Pass .

Not only it includes free entry to many of the most popular tourist attractions in Paris, but it also grants you skip-the-line entrance to most of them.

Just as with all city passes, Paris Museum Pass makes the most sense if you get it for a longer duration. If you are staying in Paris for 6 days, it’s a great investment that will pay off in no time. But even if you get it for 2-4 days, it can really pay off, depending on how you plan your itinerary.

A few things to keep in mind. You’ll have to pick up your pass and its duration starts to count on the day when you use it (so its validity is per calendar day and not per 24hrs). And you will still have to reserve timed entry at some places like the Louvre, Sainte-Chapelle, etc.

Good to know: Public museums in Paris offer FREE entrance for kids under 18 years old, and for EU citizens under 26 years old. For attractions that work with timed entry, you will still have to book a (free) timed ticket.

READ ALSO: Top Museums to Visit in Paris

Tips for visiting Paris, France - Sainte Chapelle

3. Avoid weekends and school holidays

Paris is one of the most-visited cities in Europe, so there will always be tourists around. However, there is a huge difference between visiting Paris on a weekend in June or on a weekday in February…

Of course, it’s not always possible to adjust your travel itinerary completely. But if you can plan your trip outside the school holidays and long weekends, you will have a much better experience. As a minimum, try to avoid the weekends around the most popular holidays.

The summer months are very busy in Paris, and it’s also hot – not ideal for sightseeing. In the spring, the end of April, and particularly May-June can be very busy. Many European countries have school holidays and city trips like Paris are very popular at this time of the year. Some of the busiest times in the spring are the long weekends around Easter, Labor Day (May 1), Ascension Day, and Whit Sunday (Pentecost).

When to visit? Paris is always a good idea, so any time is better than none. That being said, for milder temperatures and fewer crowds, visit Paris in October or in March-beginning of April (just not at Easter). October is particularly nice with autumn foliage and not too many people around.

TIP: If you can’t change your plans, see if you can adjust your schedule. For example, visit quieter places and local neighborhoods on the busiest days/times and visit the most popular sights when it’s quieter.

READ ALSO: What It’s Like to Visit Paris in October

Visiting Paris in the fall

4. Stay in a very central neighborhood

Paris has lots of landmarks and they are located all over the city. So there is not one perfect place to stay for sightseeing. No matter where you stay, you’ll always have to use the metro and you will be walking a lot.

Still, if you want to experience Paris to the fullest, try to stay in a neighborhood that is somewhat more centrally located so that you can walk to some of the most popular sights in 15-20 minutes. That way, you won’t have to take a metro every time and will discover some hidden gems in your area.

Also, make sure that there is a metro station nearby so that you don’t have to walk more than 5 minutes to reach a metro.

Where to stay when visiting Paris? Depending on personal experiences and expectations, everyone might have a different opinion about this. Each neighborhood has some advantages and disadvantages. After many trips to Paris and having stayed in very different areas on each of them, my personal favorite is the (wide) area around the Opera.

Many of the ‘must-sees’ are located within a short walking distance from here (15-20 minutes to many sights), there are good metro connections, the main railway stations are not too far away, and there are lots of restaurants for all budgets.

Most businesses in this area seem to cater to locals and tourists alike, so the price/quality ratio is excellent and the service is very good. The most famous department stores of Paris are also located here, and the area also boasts many entertainment venues.

Where we stayed in this area: We recently stayed at Leonardo Boutique Hotel Paris Opera , a very nice and recently renovated 4* hotel. If you are looking for good-value accommodation in a central area that is perfect for sightseeing, shopping, and dining, it’s a great choice.

My second choice for a nice neighborhood to stay in Paris would be the Latin Quarter, the area between Ile de La Cite and Luxembourg Gardens . Hotel Odeon is a nice mid-budget option here and there are many, many more.

We also really enjoyed our stay close to the Champs-Elysées years ago, but hotels and restaurants in this part of Paris are much more expensive. Plus, it’s a bit outside the main central area so you’ll have to take a metro much more often. But if you are looking for a more exclusive or romantic place to stay in Paris, this is the place to be. In that case, check out Lord Byron and other hotels just off Champs-Elysées (it’s quieter than on the main boulevard).

Passage Verdeau in Paris

5. Use the metro

Paris is a huge city that supposedly has the biggest number of landmarks compared to any other city in the world. All these landmarks are scattered all over Paris, which means that the distances between them can be quite big.

Of course, you will see more of the city if you walk, so don’t take the metro every time. But for the bigger distances, it definitely pays off to take the metro . It’s the cheapest and fastest way to travel around Paris.

And yes, they do have taxis, Uber, and Bolt, and sometimes it makes sense to use them too, especially if you are with 2-4 people. But if it’s rush hour and you have to cover a bigger distance in a hurry, the metro is the way to go.

Good to know: Some metro stations in Paris are very small and you can be in and out in a few minutes. But many others are huge, with kilometers of underground tunnels connecting the various lines. So if your destination is less than 3 metro stops away, it’s usually faster to walk than take a metro.

TIP: There are many different Paris metro tickets. We found that the multi-day tickets were not worth it. But you can get multiple tickets and it’s cheaper than paying for each trip separately. We got 10 tickets at once and it was quite a bit cheaper than buying them individually.

Our experience: In 5 days in Paris with two of us, we used just 16 metro tickets (8 rides). It was multiple times cheaper to just get single-ride tickets than buying a 5-day pass. It really pays to group the landmarks you plan to see per location so that you can minimize the travel times. It saves you lots of time too.

Paris metro tickets

6. Prepare for airport-style security checks everywhere

Nowadays, pretty much every popular landmark in Paris has an airport-style security check at the entrance . Some of them are stricter than others, but it’s best to be prepared for that.

A few tips to make it a seamless experience:

  • Carry as little as possible.
  • Leave all the sharp items in your hotel room (so no pocket knives or small nail scissors).
  • Empty your pockets before you get checked so that you aren’t holding up the line.

Musee d'Orsay entrance and security lines in Paris

7. Beware of scams and pickpockets

Just like in any other big city, you should always be alert for pickpockets. But Paris is also known for lots of common tourist scams.

Be very careful when someone distracts your attention in any way and always keep your belongings on you! So not on the ground (bag/purse) or on the table (smartphone), etc. For that, it’s best to carry as little as possible and hold your bag in such a way that you don’t have to put it down for any reason.

A backpack looks ideal, but for various reasons, it’s really not always the best idea to carry one – see below.

Paris travel tips and tricks for first time visitors

8. Don’t take a (big) backpack

While a backpack seems very convenient and has lots of advantages, it’s not an ideal bag for sightseeing in Paris. This has several reasons.

First, many landmarks and museums do not allow (bigger) backpacks inside. Some places do provide lockers though. Even if your backpack is rather small, there is always a bigger chance that they won’t let you take it inside compared to a purse or a cross-body bag.

Second, a backpack is also an easy target for pickpockets and scammers. And third, some places you visit (like towers with spiral staircases) can be quite narrow and a backpack might make it a bit more inconvenient.

If you want to pack a backpack, be sure that it’s really small. In busy places, carry it in front of you rather than on your back.

TIP: We recommend small (anti-theft) cross-body bags instead.

Good to know: It’s not just bigger backpacks that aren’t allowed in some places. You should also try to avoid carrying large umbrellas or other bulky items with you.

Lockers at the Louvre Museum in Paris

9. Stay longer

There is SO MUCH to see and do in Paris! So when planning your Paris itinerary, foresee some extra time if you can!

Of course, you can just visit Paris for 1-2 days, but you will only have time for the most famous places that everyone goes to. Even if you just add a day or two extra, you will be able to explore somewhat deeper (and it’s totally worth it!).

To cover all the musts and get just a tiny bit off the beaten path, you really need at least 4 full days in Paris (and you’ll have to plan well!).

With that time, in addition to main sights like the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, or Champs-Elysées, try to visit at least a few of the following landmarks: Paris Pantheon, Palais Garnier (Paris Opera), Paris Catacombs, or Les Invalides. All of these, except for the Catacombs , are included with the Paris Museum Pass .

While not unknown, these places are much quieter than the main sights, and each is special in its own way. A visit here will give you a better appreciation of how diverse Paris is and how much it has to offer. If anything, it will inspire you to stay even longer and explore further.

And if you do indeed stay longer and have more time to explore deeper, we have some more recommendations for you further below!

Paris Opera - Palais Garnier

10. Take a walking tour of some local neighborhoods

While Paris has countless interesting landmarks, the best way to get the feeling of what makes this fascinating city tick is to get a bit off the beaten path and explore deeper . And there is no better way to do this than taking a tour with a local guide.

Where to go and what kind of tour to choose, depends highly on your preferences, your budget, and mostly on how much time you have. There are so many amazing tours through some of the nicest neighborhoods of Paris, of all durations, and for all budgets, so you should always be able to find something that suits you.

TIP: If you are short on time, check out bike tours (e-bike tours are ideal). They cover a lot of ground in just a few hours.

If you are on a lower budget or have just an hour or two, check out these highly-rated Paris iconic neighborhoods tours with local guides .

Alternatively, there are lots of really nice self-guided audio tours which are a great way to explore on your own. For example, we did this self-guided tour of the Montmartre area . Despite having been to the neighborhood many times before, we discovered quite a few interesting places and learned the stories behind them.

TIP: If you have more time and are looking for a more in-depth experience , then consider food tours (e.g. food tours in the Montmartre area , the Latin Quarter , Saint-Germain-de-Prés , or Le Marais ). Not only do they take you to some local neighborhoods that most tourists never see, but you also get to know the city through its food. We did this amazing food-tasting tour in Le Marais and it was the best tour we did in Paris recently (and we did quite a few :)).

READ ALSO: Best Things to Do in Montmartre

Colorful stairs in Montmartre neighborhood in Paris

11. Book accommodations and restaurants in advance

There are thousands of accommodation options in Paris, so no matter when you visit, you should always be able to find something suitable. Still, if you are looking for the best value/location , then it’s best to book in advance.

If you take a refundable rate, you can always check if there is something better available last minute right before your trip, but you really can’t count on that. On the other hand, quite often, non-refundable rates will give you a big discount which can be hard to beat.

The same counts for restaurants in Paris (only here you can – usually – book a day or two before). Some places are so trendy and popular with the locals that the queues are really long. Whereas many other restaurants are quite empty and walk-ins are possible.

Good to know: Sometimes if you are trying to reserve last minute, a popular restaurant might not take reservations anymore. But that doesn’t mean you can’t dine there. Usually, it just means that you will have to wait longer to be seated. Every restaurant where we booked also allowed walk-ins, but it sure felt good to skip the line.

As a general rule, I’d say that if you want to be sure to dine at a specific restaurant without wasting an hour in line, then reserve in advance. You’ll have plenty of better things to do with your time in Paris, so do some research in advance and save yourself the wait!

The lobby of Hotel Prelude Opera in Paris

12. Visit top sights early in the morning or before closing time

As you probably already know, the main landmarks in cities like Paris are always at their busiest during the day (+- 10 am to 3-4 pm).

So if you can, try to visit the most popular landmarks first thing in the morning or just before they close. Depending on the place, it can be half an hour before the closing time or 2-3 hours to allow you plenty of time to see everything you want to see.

Of course, you can’t be everywhere at the quietest time (unless you have a few weeks). But try to plan your itinerary in such a way that you make the most of your time.

For example, we visited the Louvre Museum on a ‘closing-time’ tour and it was indeed quieter (the Louvre is never quiet). The same with Versailles Palace, which we visited in the afternoon. We went to Museum d’Orsay first thing in the morning and it was incomparably quieter during the first hour. Some museums in Paris have one night per week when they stay open late; it’s usually much less busy at that time.

READ ALSO: Tips & Tricks for Visiting the Louvre Museum

Museum d'Orsay in Paris early in the morning

13. Visit the best viewpoints around sunset

It’s not just the crowds (or lack thereof) that can contribute to the overall experience, but also the light. I don’t need to explain that everything looks so much prettier in the perfect light.

And while you can’t influence nature and you can never know in advance what you get, you can increase your chances for some spectacular views by being at the right places at the most optimal times .

So if you are planning on visiting some of the nicest viewpoints in Paris , see if you can time your visit and be there about 30-45 minutes before sunset. If you are lucky and the sky is beautiful, it will make your visit so much more special. And if it turns out that there isn’t much of a nice sunset after all, you still didn’t lose anything.

READ ALSO: Travel Photography: Our Top Tips for Better Travel Photos .

Paris sunset view with the Eiffel Tower as seen from Arc de Triomphe

14. Dress in layers

Paris is not just the City of Light, but it’s also a very windy city. There are lots of open spaces and wide boulevards, and also many towers to climb and viewpoints that you’ll want to see.

So prepare for it to be windy and dress accordingly. Depending on the season, a (light) scarf can be a good idea.

Also, wear several layers so that you can enjoy the experience without having to worry about feeling too cold or too warm.

Even in the summer, you may want to take a light sweater with you since it can be much colder inside the museums (A/C) and in the crypts of the Pantheon or underground tunnels in Paris Catacombs, etc. It is often quite windy on top of the Eiffel Tower and sometimes also on the Seine river cruises .

Paris Catacombs - skulls and bones in the shape of a heart

15. See a cabaret show

If there is one typically Parisian experience that you really should consider, it’s a cabaret show . Just like a gondola ride in Venice or a flamenco show in Seville , a cabaret show is something that you really have to experience when visiting Paris.

There are many different cabarets in Paris , each unique in its own way. No matter which one you choose, it’s an experience that I highly recommend. After all, how often are you going to be in Paris? Give it a try.

  • The most famous of them all is the iconic Moulin Rouge , located at the foot of Montmartre hill. It’s also the most expensive of all cabaret shows in Paris. But it’s totally worth the money! And if you compare it with e.g. shows on Broadway in New York or the best shows in Las Vegas , it’s actually an amazing value for the money.
  • Crazy Horse is another popular option, although a bit more ‘daring’ and there’s a bit more nudity. This is something you’ll see in all the shows to a certain extent, but it’s not vulgar in any way. We even saw teenagers at the Moulin Rouge.
  • Paradis Latin is another great cancan show and the tickets here are quite a bit cheaper. This is the oldest cabaret in Paris and their shows are excellent.

Good to know: For all the cabaret shows in Paris, a few simple rules apply. For example, they do not allow you to take pictures of the show and they also recommend smart dress (so no shorts, sandals, sporty sneakers, etc.). Also, almost all shows have a possibility to book a show + dinner; the food is usually prepared by the best chefs and is excellent. Dinner is served before the show, and some cabarets also foresee a small pre-program.

PRO TIP: No matter which cabaret show you choose (or a few of them), book in advance! Often, the tickets sell out a few weeks in advance, especially for the early evening shows (around 9 pm). This is especially the case at the Moulin Rouge , which is by far the best-known and most popular not just among international tourists, but also locals, business travelers, etc.

Moulin Rouge - the most famous cabaret show in Paris

16. Wear comfortable shoes

No matter how well you plan your visit and sightseeing itinerary, you will be walking a lot in Paris . And I really mean a lot.

The city is spread out and the distances are big. On the other hand, there is so much to see that there are often many landmarks located 10-20 minutes’ walk from each other. This usually means that it doesn’t make sense to look for a metro or a taxi, and it’s simpler to walk…

But before you know it, you walk 10 minutes here and 15 minutes there, and by the end of the day, you realize you did 25,000 steps.

So be sure to wear comfortable shoes !!!

Nowadays, many people (especially younger generations) wear sneakers in Paris. So it’s simpler not to ‘look like a tourist’ and still be comfortable. But if you pay attention, you will notice that locals usually wear fancier (designer) fashion sneakers.

So if you want to ‘blend in’ a bit more, leave those tennis shoes (and long white socks!) at home and pack the nicest comfortable shoes you have. Or don’t pay attention to what others might think (people really have better things to do than worry about how you look ;)) and just pack what feels best.

Shoes on mosaic floor of Sainte Chapelle in Paris France

17. Wait before buying souvenirs

Just like any big city, Paris is filled with shops and street vendors selling all kinds of souvenirs. And while many souvenirs are exactly the same, the prices can differ quite a lot depending on where you buy them.

So if you want to get some souvenirs, you may want to look around first instead of buying them in the first place you see.

Just an example. We saw so many tourists wearing ‘Parisian’ berets they clearly bought in Paris. Indeed, you can buy them on every corner. But while some places sell 4 beret hats for 10 euros, others ask 10 euros for 1…

Whether you should buy a beret to start with, that’s another question. There’s nothing that says “I’m a tourist” more than a beret hat 😊. But it makes for some fun photos. And if it adds to your overall experience and makes your Paris trip more enjoyable for you, who cares what others think anyway… You only live once!

Red beret hat for sale at a souvenir shop in Paris

18. Try local food

There is no better way to experience a destination than through its food and drinks. Paris is no exception.

So when planning your Paris itinerary, try to do some research on where to eat . Unless you have plenty of time and are willing to go out of your way for a specific place, I’d just simply try to find some good options that fit with your sightseeing plan.

This is what we normally do. We make an approximate itinerary, see where we will be around lunch or dinner, and then look for some nice restaurants nearby using Google Maps. Sometimes you find some really great local spots that way. In any case, doing even some minimal research, helps you avoid tourist traps. Plus, you can read customer reviews, check menus and prices, and also reserve in advance where necessary (it’s often recommended in Paris, especially for dinner).

Another advantage of doing some research in advance is that you can look for a different type of restaurant for every meal. So let’s say, you want to try Parisian macarons at a famous tearoom for lunch one day and some French crepes or quiche on another occasion. The same for dinner – you may want to look for a traditional Parisian brasserie where you can try some escargots (snails) or cuisses de grenouille (frog legs) one evening and head to a trendy Italian or Korean restaurant another night.

While in the past, locals could be quite snobbish about French haute cuisine , nowadays, Parisian food is influenced by tastes and ingredients from all over the world. And while you should definitely try some traditional French food on a few occasions, it’s just as nice to discover different cuisines with a French touch.

TIP: In addition to looking for different types of restaurants for every meal, consider taking a food tour as well. It’s a great way to try so many different things in just a few hours. And you get to know some neighborhoods and local foods that you’d likely never see/try otherwise.

There are quite a few options when it comes to food tours in Paris . If you only have 1-2 days in the city, it’s probably difficult to find time for such a tour. But if you have at least 3-4 days in Paris, then you should be able to find some time for a local food tour. We now try to do at least one food tour in every city we visit and we absolutely love them. It’s such a great way to get to know a new place just a bit deeper! On our most recent visit to Paris, we did this food tour of Le Marais neighborhood .

READ ALSO: Best Traditional French Dishes to Try in France

French cheese and cured meat plate on a Paris food tour

19. Use mobile data & Wi-Fi

There will be countless situations when you will need your smartphone when visiting Paris. So be sure that you have access to the mobile network (and that it won’t cost you a fortune). An eSIM Mobile Data Plan might be a good solution if you are visiting from outside of the EU.

A few examples. As already mentioned before, it’s best to pre-book tickets for most attractions when visiting Paris. If you don’t want to or can’t print those tickets, you will need to quickly access them on the go.

Also, quite a few of the trendier restaurants in Paris now have a system where you scan a QR code on your table not just for the menu, but also to pay your bill. You see exactly what you ordered, how much you have to pay, can choose to tip extra if you like to, and then insert your credit card data and pay. Often, waiters won’t even come to your table anymore and you can just leave whenever you are ready.

It’s all simple enough with European SIM cards since there are no roaming fees in the EU. But if you are traveling to Paris from outside of Europe, see if you can find an affordable way to stay connected.

Good to know: Most museums and restaurants in Paris offer free Wi-Fi. So often, you will be able to connect to a public network. But this might not always be the case everywhere. So plan in advance! For example, if you are not sure that you will have Internet, you could take screenshots of the tickets you booked, just in case.

Walker Through Walls in Montmartre Paris

20. Pay in Euros & be sure that your credit card has a PIN

If you travel internationally, you probably already know the most common legal scam there is – banks/ATMs charging you ridiculous exchange rates.

It usually works like this. You use an ATM to take some cash or use your credit card to pay for a product or service. To ‘make things easier’ for you, they present you with the choice to do the transaction in your own currency. Never do this! Be sure that you always do all your credit card transactions in the currency of the country where you travel – in the case of Paris, in euros.

When you choose to pay in euros, the exchange rate will be calculated by your bank. It will always be much better than the exchange rate that you are given by the ‘helpful’ ATMs abroad. I once lost about 20% in the exchange rate in London, so learned the hard way (luckily, the amounts were small).

Also, try to avoid using ATMs with ‘Euronet’ sign on them – their fees are absolutely outrageous. The best ATMs are the ones that are attached to local bank offices.

Good to know: Many European countries only use credit cards with a pin, and it’s been like this for years already. I can’t even remember the last time we had to sign to confirm a credit card transaction. Most of the time, you will still be able to pay with your pinless credit card in Paris, but there might be situations when you will really need a pin (e.g. when purchasing metro or train tickets from a machine). So ideally, you get a credit card with a pin if you are planning a trip to Europe.

TIP:  If you live in the U.S. and don’t have the right credit card, check out this selection of  the best credit cards for travel . I recommend choosing  a card with no foreign transaction fees .

In many places, you will be able to use your smartphone or your smartwatch for payments as well.

Paris metro ticket machine

21. Know that tips are not expected (but appreciated)

To tip or not to top, that’s the question…

In general, we do not tip in Europe, and in the past, it was common to just round up the bill. But I notice that tipping is becoming more and more common (and expected) in many European countries. Still, it’s not comparable to the U.S. in terms of who and how much you tip.

At the restaurants in Paris, we usually tip 5-10%. The same for taxi drivers. Or just round up the bill if paying cash. Anything above 10% is considered very generous and is really not expected. But if the service is exceptional, people will definitely appreciate it.

We also tip tour guides, but only the ones that do an exceptional job. Also here, it depends on you if and how much you tip. If we tip, it’s usually 5-10 euros per person depending on the duration of the tour.

Drinking Aperol Spritz in front of the Eiffel Tower in Paris

22. Learn a few words in French

A smile goes a long way, so don’t worry if you don’t speak French – you will be able to get along in Paris just fine. In fact, I was surprised on our recent trip by how much has changed in Paris in terms of people speaking English (and the attitude towards tourists)! The city has become so much friendlier too!

While 5-10 years ago, English-speaking staff was more an exception than a rule, nowadays, most people working in the hospitality sector in Paris speak (at least some) English. This is especially the case among the younger generations, but the change is really noticeable.

That being said, locals will certainly appreciate it if you do your best to speak at least a few words in French. Even if you can learn just a few basic words, it will be appreciated. Here are a couple of useful words and phrases in French:

  • Bonjour = hello (good day).
  • Bonsoir = good evening.
  • Merci = thank you.
  • Au revoir = good-bye.
  • Oui/ non – yes/no.
  • Femme/homme = woman/man.
  • Excusez-moi = excuse me.
  • Parlez-vous Anglais? = Do you speak English?
  • Je ne comprends pas = I do not understand.

Paris I love you sign on the rooftop terrace of Galeries Lafayette in Paris

23. Get outside the city (center)

In addition to all the amazing places in Paris, there is so much to see around the city too. So if you can, try to visit a few places outside of Paris .

The most popular (half) day trip is, of course, the famous Versailles Palace and its vast gardens. Most people come to Versailles for a few hours ( with a tour with or without transportation, or on their own), but there is so much to see that you could even plan an entire day for this town alone. We visited Versailles by train and then booked this guided tour for the Palace and the gardens. There is so much to see, so I highly recommend visiting the palace with a guide!

Another popular choice is a visit to Giverny , best known for the house and the gardens of Monet. Also here, you can visit by train from Paris (and potentially rent a bike at the station to explore further), or come on a tour . There are also tours that visit both – Versailles and Giverny – in one day.

Other popular options further away include a visit to Mont Saint-Michel and/or D-Day Beaches in Normandy. If you want to visit these places from Paris for just a day, then definitely opt for a day tour!

Day tours to the castles of the Loire Valley are also possible (and can be worth it if you have no time to plan a road trip and visit all these places on your own).

With kids , the obvious choice is to spend a day at Disneyland Paris , but with teenagers , you may want to consider Parc Asterix instead. This theme park has more ‘wilder’ rides.

Also in the city , there are some interesting areas that are just a bit outside of the typical tourist routes, such as La Défence business district or Père Lachaise Cemetery where many famous people are buried.

Even if you just get a bit outside of the city center or take one or two day trips, it will make your visit to Paris so much more memorable!

Disneyland Paris Castle

So, these are some of the most useful tips and tricks for Paris that you may want to know when traveling to the city for the first time.

Have a great trip to Paris!

TIP: You may also like to read our similar guides with tips for some of the most popular cities in Europe:

  • Amsterdam Travel Tips
  • Barcelona Travel Tips
  • London Travel Tips
  • Rome Travel Tips
  • Edinburgh Travel Tips
  • Krakow Travel Tips

READ ALSO: Traveling to Europe: How to Plan a Trip + Top Tips

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Everything that you should know before traveling to Paris for the first time

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Sunday 3rd of March 2024

Thank you for such an amazing article. I am just starting to plan our trip to Paris,,, a dream of mine,, so want to plan it well. I will definately be coming back to this site often during my planning. Are there photographers near the Eifel Tower, for professional pics. someone I was talking to, mentioned something like that. Not sure if that is something you have to book head of time, do you have any info on that, and good places to get for amazing views of the Eifel tower? The Eifel Tower has been on my bucket list for many years,,, so I want to make the best of it while we are there, with good photos and exceptional views of it.. Thank you so much.

Monday 4th of March 2024

Hi Jen, yes, a photo shoot is something that you definitely need to book before you go. See here for some options. If I were you, I would look for a photo shoot that you can book as early in the morning as possible (better light and less people), e.g. this one is possible from 8AM. Just a note - book EVERYTHING in Paris well in advance. Many tickets for the most popular attractions in Paris are sold out several months in advance nowadays. Have a great trip!

Friday 9th of February 2024

Regarding the Museum Pass - since I also want to get timed entry tickets, do I buy the pass first and then when I go to get the timed entry tickets, indicate that I have a museum pass. Is the pass good for more then 1 person? Since I am traveling with my friend, do we each need to buy one??

Saturday 10th of February 2024

Hi Kathy, yes, of course, every person needs to get their own pass. And yes, for some attractions, you will need to reserve timed entry. I assume you will get the instructions after you purchase the pass. Because if you wait until you pick it up at the time of your visit, by then, it will be too late to reserve timed entry to e.g. the Louvre. As I said in the article, it's a bit of an extra hassle compared to simply getting tickets to each attraction separately, but if you visit many museums over the course of a few days, then it is cheaper with the pass. Have a great time in Paris!

Monday 18th of September 2023

Thank you for all the information. I read your comment regarding use of tickets purchased through Viator. My wife bought tickets from Viator ahead of our trip coming up on 09/21/23 for the Louvre, Seine River tour and Musee Orsay. Are these three in the group of attractions that will not accept Viator-purchased tickets?

Tuesday 19th of September 2023

Hi Tom, I suggest that you read recent reviews on Viator for the experiences that you booked. If there is nobody complaining about it, I guess it's not a problem (anymore). I am not sure which attractions exactly were impacted or how long the issues lasted and if it's still a problem today. We saw signs at Sainte-Chapelle when we visited recently and I also heard from friends about a few other attractions, but hopefully it's sorted now. I'll have to double-check it again when doing the next big update to the article. Once again, read the reviews and if in doubt, you can always cancel the tickets and get them with GetYourGuide or Tiqets. Enjoy Paris!

Sunday 17th of September 2023

Thank you, Madam for the wonderful photos and the information of wonderful romantic Paris !

"Cést si bon..."

Glad to help, Ron. Have a great time in Paris!

Friday 15th of September 2023

Thanks for the wonderful article--lots of useful information. Just a question- if it's not advisable to carry backpacks (large or small), how to carry some important things like camera (cell phones can't capture the beautiful architecture), compact umbrella (to prepare for sudden rain) etc. if traveling in Fall or Winter in a small or medium sized purse. Please advise!

Hi Sree, just to be clear - you can carry whatever you want, but if you take a backpack, you'll have to leave it inside the lockers pretty much everywhere. Plus, the more stuff you carry around, the longer it takes to get through security at all the attractions. I personally use a crossbody bag. They come in all different sizes so you can always find something that fits your needs.

The Travel Hack

Paris Travel Hacks: The best travel tips for travelling to Paris

By: Author Monica

Categories France

Paris Travel Hacks: The best travel tips for travelling to Paris

If you’re travelling to Paris for the first time then I’ve got some great travel tips to make your trip is a breeze! Paris is a bustling city and it can be overwhelming! I remember my first solo trip to Paris and there was so much I wanted to see and do that I actually ended up doing very little! I started each day with a ‘stroll’ in the hope I’d stumble upon a hidden treasure but I actually spent a lot of my time getting lost.

Paris is too big and busy to just wing it so you’ll need to do a bit of planning to get the most out of your time travelling to Paris.

travelling to paris advice

 11 Travel Hacks for travelling in Paris

Plan out everything you want to see with a personalised google map.

Begin by researching all the things to see and do in Paris and make a list of everything you want to see. Once you’ve finalised this list, plot everything into a Google Map so you can see where everything is in relation to each other.  This is really handy for a big city where there’s a lot to see and do!

I recommend plotting absolutely everything of interest into your map. Let’s say you get lost one afternoon and you’re starting to feel tired, so you open up your Google Map and realise you’re next to that cute bar your brother recommended you visit.

Read more: How to REALLY use Google Maps while you travel

travelling to paris advice

Use the Metro and use the RATP app

Save time and money by using the Metro – something lots of tourists avoid because it seems confusing!

But it’s honestly not that confusing, especially if you download the RATP App which will help you get around.

Book a tour or two

I know tours aren’t everyone’s cup of tea but, honestly, they can be amazing. You’ll see so much more and when you get home and tell everyone about all the places you discovered, you don’t need to tell people it was during a tour! I really like foodie tours when they take you to sample food and drink in the city’s best and most interesting places.

Read more: Taking city tours while travelling

Don’t bother climbing the Eiffel Tower

I know it sounds like the dream to climb Paris’ most iconic structure but in reality it isn’t that much fun. It’s busy and touristy and the crowds and touts will ruin those views.

It’s much better to climb somewhere high and see the Paris skyline with the Eiffel Tower IN the scene. 

Read more: Where to watch the sunset in Paris

12 of the best weekend escapes on The Travel Hack

Stay somewhere central

Paris is such a big city so, if you can, try and stay somewhere as central as possible. Not only will you save yourself a lot of time by not travelling in and out of the city but it’s safer if you’re not travelling to quieter places at night time.

In my experience, nowhere is 100% safe and you can’t guarantee your safety anywhere in the world but the unsafe places tend to be the outskirts of cities and where the aren’t many people around. In the center of cities there are usually so many people around so there’s always someone to help!

Read more: My review of Citadines Suites Lourve Paris

Always pre-book skip the line tickets

Always, always, always  book skip-the-queue tickets. Even if it’s more expensive, you will thank yourself when you’re breezing past the other tourists who have been queuing in the cold for 3 hours!

Download Google Translate

Make sure you’ve got the Google Translate app installed on your phone. The French aren’t nearly as hostile towards tourists as people would have you believe (they’re actually pretty friendly!) but they may not speak English so Google Translate comes in very handy! You can use it to translate speech or written text and it can really help in local restaurants!

travelling to paris advice

Don’t accept flowers and friendship bracelets

If you’re ever approached by anyone trying to offer you flowers or friendship bracelets, don’t take them. This is a common way for scammers to get money out of you. You’ll often find them around busy tourist places to keep your wits about you when you’re in big crowds.

Use Spotted by Locals

Another brilliant app you should download before visiting Paris is Spotted by Locals. It has recommendations from genuine local people and although you do have to pay for the app I’ve always found it to be well worth it.

travelling to paris advice

Check your airports

My final Paris travel hack is to be aware of the airport you’re flying into. I know, I know, it seems so simple and if you’re a seasoned traveller then you’ll undoubtedly be aware of this already. But if you’re not so experienced then you may not realise that Paris has a fair few airports (much like London) so make sure you’re aware of which airport you’re flying into. Budget airlines often fly into Paris Beauvais Airport which is further from the city centre in comparison to Paris-Charles de Gaulle.

Gary Francis

Saturday 21st of December 2019

I'd add: 1. always stay centrally, so you can walk to most places you want to go; and 2. go up the Montparnasse Tower: the view is brilliant and you are looking at the Eiffel Tower from up high.

Bart van Poll

Saturday 16th of November 2019

Thank you so much for mentioning Spotted by Locals! Our Paris local will be thrilled. All the best, Bart - Co-founder

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travelling to paris advice

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A Solo Paris Trip – How to Perfectly Enjoy Paris Alone

Salut from Paris is supported by its audience. When you purchase through links on this site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Learn more

Traveling Paris solo is maybe not the first thing that comes to your mind when thinking about where to spend your next vacation. But you know what? Despite all the love and sparkles, Paris is an utterly fantastic destination to traveling alone to.

In fact, there is so much to do and to discover that you’ll be happy to have planned traveling solo to Paris. Not only can you explore Paris at your own pace, there’s also no one around to silently judge you for enjoying a few too many croissants and glasses of wine.

Lena Profile Pic Salut from Paris

Salut, I am Lena – travel planning expert and parisienne since 2006 🩷

traveling to Paris alone

A solo Paris trip is the right thing to and this romantic Paris guide for one I am showing you how to spend a fabulous time alone in the city of love . So whether you’re looking for some time alone, couldn’t find a travel partner or simply prefer traveling alone to Paris, you surely don’t need to fear to get bored.

Interesting reads for your solo travel to Paris, France:

  • 18 free Museums in Paris (+tips to save on the others)
  • What NOT to do in Paris -23 (costly) Paris Mistakes you need to avoid!
  • The best Arrondissement to stay in Paris (Top 3 + Hotel Tips)

Traveling to Paris Solo: Why there’s Nothing to Worry About

Paris is a terrific city and a dream destination for so many of us. The sheer abundance of activities, experiences, and impressions Paris offers has the power to make your heart overflow with joy. Not having (or wanting!) a travel partner should not at all stop you from savoring every second of this marvelous adventure.

I have taken myriad solo trips over the years to destinations all over the world. Today, when roaming through Paris, I am mostly on my own. And I love it.

Cafés in Paris

A few reasons why a solo Paris trip is just the right thing

  • I have rarely been to a city with so much to see and do than in Paris. That’s actually the best reason for a Paris solo trip. Because if your worry is feeling lonely in Paris on your own, you can easily fill up your schedule to the max, and you’ll be busy for days.
  • Even though Paris is known to be the most romantic city, many people are on their own here. In cafés, restaurants, parks, in cinemas, museums… it is not weird at all to be alone in Paris , it’s rather quite common. Think of all the business travelers, expats, students, au pairs… they are all alone in Paris.
  • Paris is the best city to just wander around, and this is an activity you truly can do best when in Paris on your own.
  • But if you are keen on company, you don’t have to do be alone in Paris. If you want to meet with someone for a coffee or a drink, there are plenty of Facebook and Meetup groups to easily connect with fellow travelers or locals. You also could take a guided tour to connect with others.

CHECKLIST for your Paris Trip

✔ Hotel booked?

  • Budget: Hotel France Albion (8.6)
  • Midrange: Hôtel des Arts (9.6)
  • Upscale: Millésime Hôtel (9.2)
  • Luxury: La Demeure Montaigne (9.1)
  • My Favorite: Hôtel Monte Cristo

✔ Tickets booked?

  • Eiffel Tower ( book here )
  • Paris City Pass ( book here )
  • Louvre ( book here )
  • Arc de Triomphe ( book here )
  • Hop On Hop Off Bus ( book here )

🎁🎁 Exclusive 5% off on Seine Cruises – BOOK HERE with our code SALUT5 🎁🎁

Paris Survival Tips

  • Buy your SIM card in advance
  • Get a Travel Adapter
  • Book your airport transfer
  • Download the free survival guide

Fun Activities

  • Explore the Covered Arcades
  • Discover the quaint Bookstores
  • Find Paris Hidden Cocktail Bars
  • Take an easy Day Trip by train

Is a Solo Trip to Paris Safe?

Overall, yes, travelling solo in Paris is a safe thing to do. Not at least because Paris is one of the safest cities in Europe. But this obviously doesn’t mean that you should be trowing all caution overboard. Can you safely go everywhere?

Yes. But should you be walking around at 3 am, waving drunkenly with your new iPhone 14? Better not.

On the Safe Cities Index 2021 by the Economist, Paris made it to place 23 in overall security. After Copenhagen, Amsterdam, and New York, but before Brussels, Dubai, and Rome.

However, when it comes to personal security, Paris is even in place 6 . Everyone’s safety radar ticks differently, but Paris is not a place known for danger if you apply common sense:

  • Know about common scams – read more about it here 
  • Avoid shady areas – read more about the best hotel locations here
  • Watch your surroundings and be attentive
  • Stay in public places & don’t ever accept drinks from strangers, especially if you did not see how your drink was purred into your glass.

don't skip the cafés

Solo female travel in Paris: is it safe?

From my personal, female, experience, I can say that I never felt unsafe in Paris . And I did live in shifty areas, walked home at night alone, and well, did not always use common sense. Regardless of my luck, I admittedly also know people who were less lucky and got robbed or harassed.

All this is to tell you that Paris is just a normal city that overall is safe. Probably not much different from your hometown or any other city that you have traveled to.

Is Paris safe for solo female travellers ? Yes, it is. At least not more or less than any other place in Europe. However, If you are traveling alone as a female to Paris, you will likely be catcalled at one point. Sad and uncomfortable, but normally not dangerous.

the Eiffel Tower is a safe place to visit

What’s the Best Area to Stay in Paris Alone

Where to stay in Paris is an often discussed question and of course, when traveling alone, it is essential to stay in a safe area in Paris. As a rule of thumb, the more central, the safer.

You can’t do anything wrong if you stay in a central area like the Marais or the Quartier Latin. But as well the southern and western areas of Paris like the 14th, 15th, and 16th arrondissements are good, but they are also pretty quiet areas to stay.

Also interesting: 20 Arrondissements in Paris (Quick Guide + Map)

Luckily, most hotels are in very safe areas that I highlighted green on the map below, and you won’t run into trouble finding a suitable hotel there. If you are traveling on a budget, you need to be more attentive, though.

travel alone to Paris - where to stay

Many of the budget-friendly hotels are in the north of Paris, and trust me, it is not an area where you necessarily want to spend your Paris vacation. (highlighted in red on the map)

Below, I am suggesting you a few hotels in Paris that you can book without hesitation. They are all in absolutely safe locations, with plenty of amenities and sights around and, of course, the best Paris vibes:

  • Les Jardins du Luxembourg – perfectly located in the Latin Quarter, not far from the Panthéon.
  • Hôtel Ducs de Bourgogne – right by the Pont-Neuf and the Louvre, breakfast included
  • Le Basile Hôtel – Between Opèra, Champs-Élysés and Louvre, lovely interior
  • Esprit Saint Germain – luxury hotel near Saint Sulpice, Jardin du Luxembourg & St. Michel
  • Hotel Rivoli – no frills budget option but in a stellar location on Rue de Rivoli

Traveler’s Tip for traveling to Paris solo: Stay in the Marais

As a solo traveler, it’s important to base yourself in a safe neighborhood with lots to do, great places to eat, and a central location for exploring. The district of the Marais is located in the 3rd and 4th arrondissements of the city, on the right banks of the Seine. It is the trendiest neighborhood in Paris and a must-visit for every solo travel to Paris.

The neighborhood of the Marais is an attraction itself, with many charming cobblestone alleyways to explore. The Marais is also home to a growing vegan and vegetarian movement, try HANK burger or Wild & The Moon for great veggie-forward eats.

paris solo trip: not complete without the Marais

One of the best things to do in the Marais solo is sip coffee at a streetside cafe and enjoy some watching everyday Parisian life go by. The picturesque exterior of Boot Cafe invites you to some of the best coffee in the district.

If you are an art lover, the Picasso National Museum can be explored for hours and boasts a beautiful interior staircase. Stop by Place des Vosges, the first square in Paris lined with grand homes, to read a book on the grass by the fountain.

By Haley of Haley Blackall Travel

Paris Solo Trip: Eating Alone in Paris

First – and this you should internalize like a mantra – it is NOT weird to eat alone in Paris. Not.Weird.

Of course, you will see many couples and groups that are sharing their meal, but if you look closely, you’ll spot many people who eat by themselves . Some will read a book or a newspaper, others might browse through their phones, but many are just sitting there with a glass of wine, watching the world go by and enjoying their meal.

Me enjoying a coffee in paris alone

However, I entirely understand that eating alone when traveling solo in Paris is not the easiest thing to do. If you don’t feel comfortable sitting alone in a restaurant when on solo travel to Paris, you have plenty of alternatives for not starving.

Paris solo travel: where to eat if not in a restaurant?

  • Eat at Pret-a-Manger, Exki, Felicità , or even Starbucks. It might not be the cozy French Brasserie, but many people are using these cafés as their coworking space. Being alone in this environment is the most normal thing.
  • Get a fresh baguette from one of the outstanding Parisian bakeries and some cheese from a nearby fromagerie and make a little picnic by the Seine or in one of the beautiful parks in Paris.

Traveler’s Tip on dining when travelling solo in Paris

Eating solo might be the hardest part of traveling alone to a particular destination. It can feel awkward and weird, but part of traveling alone is embracing the fact that you are a strong and independent person.

Paris is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe , full of many wonderful cafés, so it is pretty easy to dine solo in this bustling city. On every corner, you will find a nice café that is casual enough to sit at and read a book while sipping on a coffee or eating a croissant. You will not look out of place at all because many people around will be doing just the same.

Some recommendations include Café de Flore , the oldest coffeehouse in Paris, situated on one of the prettiest streets in Paris, the Boulevard St.Germain . It has become famous for its clientele, including renowned writers and philosophers. Trying their hot chocolate is a must as it is so rich and delicious.

Restaurants cater for everyone

Another perfect restaurant for solo travelers is Le Choupinet where you can eat wonderful French cuisine. This restaurant has cute teddy bears, so you won’t be necessarily dining solo after all!

In fact, throughout Paris, you will find many cafés with these bears. The teddy bear hype started in the Gobelins Neighborhood , but since a bit, you find them in many restaurants all over Paris.

Thanks, Jackie from JouJou Travels for the suggestion

The Best Things To Do in Paris Alone

When traveling alone, it’s best to choose a destination that is so packed with things to do and see that you don’t risk getting bored. Paris is such a destination, if not actually the best.

Paris is so full of sights, museums, and attractions, that you could keep yourself busy for weeks and weeks. I am showing you what you shouldn’t miss when traveling alone in Paris .

Important: Plan ahead for the top sights when visiting Paris!

I know, it kills a bit the spontaneous, easy-going vacation vibe you are might be keen on, especially, when traveling alone to Paris. But there are a few reasons why you should book your tickets in advance when visiting Paris.

  • Popular sights like the Eiffel Tower or the Catacombs book out weeks in advance , especially in high season
  • Some ticket booths on site might be closed or require you to queue for hours

You see now, why I strongly recommend that you book your entrance tickets in advance to avoid disappointment or wasting time queuing.

solo female travel to paris  means much time for yourself to go whereever you want

Book your attraction tickets in advance, even when traveling Paris alone

To make it easier for you and save you time in Paris, you find in the following a list of sights that you absolutely need to book before you arrive in Paris . For your convenience, I added links to my most trusted ticket provider:

  • The Eiffel Tower – click here for tickets to the summit!
  • The Louvre – Click here to see the Mona Lisa
  • The Catacombs  – click here to enter Paris’ underground
  • The Castle of Versailles – book your ticket here

Of course, you also can purchase tickets directly on the sights homepages. However, the downside is that they usually don’t have a cancellation policy. While reserving your Paris tickets with get your guide grants you a 24h cancellation and full refund policy. A strong point because we all know how weather and plans can change.

#1 Enjoy a Seine River Cruise on your Paris Solo Trip

Click here to know more about cruise schedules, prices, and bookings

There are many wonderful viewpoints in Paris to enjoy the unique cityscape, but one of the most amazing and popular ways to see Paris is by hopping on a Seine River Cruise .

The cruise tour begins from various locations, usually running through the city center of Paris from Notre Dame to the Eiffel Tower . This is a good opportunity to get an overview of all the key attractions along the River Seine , including Le Louvre, Musée d’ Orsay, Place de la Concorde, invalids, Petit Palais, and Grand Palais.

solo travel paris: a cruise is always lovely

Just take a seat on deck and enjoy your solo travel to Paris. Put your headphones in to listen to the audio guide of the cruise, to your favorite music, podcast or audiobook and relish the beauty of Paris.

There are 37 bridges and footbridges across the Seine, and each of them has its beauty and history. The tour passes some of the most famous bridges in France , like Pont Neuf, Pont des Arts, and Pont Alexandre III . Solo travelers can enjoy the moment to appreciate the magnificent architecture, enjoy a meal on the water, and meet other fellow travelers on the journey.

Thanks Knycx Journeying for the suggestion

#2 Visit the Eiffel Tower

→ Click here to reserve your spot on the lift to the summit

Think for a second about one thing you associate with Paris. Chances are you’ve thought of the Eiffel Tower. Not surprisingly, the Eiffel Tower is one of the most visited sights in France and the whole world.

So, it’s only natural to include a visit to the world-famous Eiffel Tower in your Paris trip. With its considerable size, this famous building can hardly be overlooked. Already, during a walk through the streets of Paris, you can see the impressive Eiffel Tower from many parts of the city.

It is especially striking at night, when its facade is illuminated, becoming a beloved photo motif for locals and visitors alike. Even for solo travelers, a visit here is an absolute highlight . You can go up and enjoy the view of this great city, or maybe even celebrate yourself with a glass of Champagne.

Whether you visit in daylight or the dark is entirely up to you and your preference. Book your ticket here to save time.

Eiffel Tower Solo trip to Paris

If you’re visiting Paris on a budget , and you’re still young or even a student, be sure to bring your (student) ID to get a discount on your ticket.

Thanks, Vicky from Vickiviaja for the suggestion

#3 Relax in the Jardin du Palais Royal

The beautiful Jardin du Palais-Royal is a small but inviting garden located on the grounds of the former royal palace. Situated just over the road from the Louvre, it’s in a handy central location and one of the best Paris attractions.

What makes it different from other gardens in Paris is that it’s a place that the locals frequent. From dog walkers to locals simply taking a quiet moment to themselves, solo travelers will feel right at home being on their own. At the southern end of the grounds are the iconic black-and-white striped Buren’s columns. If they look familiar, it’s not surprising. It’s a filming location for “Emily in Paris ”.

A wonderful place to hang out when travelling to Paris alone: the jardin du Palais Royal

The columns are where most tourists will linger, while the Northern end of the garden is where you can get a slice of tranquility. Discover a large fountain that’s framed by colorful flower beds and perfectly manicured rows of boxed hedges and trees. With no gaggles of selfie-snapping tourists, the result is a quiet and peaceful area that provides an oasis from city life.  Be sure to bring a book if you intend to spend a couple of hours here. The Jardin du Palais-Royal is the perfect place for solo travelers to take a seat, read a book, and watch the world go by.

Thanks, Jessie Moore of Pocket Wanderings for the suggestion

#4 Explore the Parisian Cemeteries

It may seem like an unusual activity to promote, but for a solo Paris traveler, strolling over the cemeteries of Paris is both calming and interesting. Visit the final resting place of some of history’s most famous figures, admire the intricate mausoleums, and enjoy the tranquility.  

The joy of traveling Paris alone is that you have plenty of time for reflection, and these quiet spots are perfect for that.

solo paris: take the time you need to explore the quaint cemeteries of Paris

Père Lachaise is the most prominent cemetery in Paris. Jim Morrison from The Doors, the poet Oscar Wilde, and the French chanteuse Edith Piaf are all buried there. The Montparnasse Cemetery isn’t as big, but has some of the literary greats within its manicured walls. Baudelaire, Jean-Paul Sartre, and Simone de Beauvoir, just to name a few.

Top Tip:   When visiting Père Lachaise by public transport, stay on the metro one more stop and get off at Gambetta – this means you can walk down the hill instead of up.

Thanks, Hannah of From HH Lifestyle Travel for the suggestion

Also see our article on free things to do in Paris , if you are traveling on a tighter budget.

#5 Visit the Louvre and the Mona Lisa (she is alone in Paris, too)

Click here to buy your admission ticket for the Louvre

A place nobody can miss when in Paris is the Louvre Museum . Set in what once was a fortress on the right bank of the Seine River, the building itself saw many changes. Until 1547, when Francis I, king of France, decided to demolish it and build his royal residence on top of the remains – which are actually still visible. As he was a lover of art, the king started collecting many pieces, with subsequent kings adding to the collection.

Once Louis XIV decided the court should be moved to Versailles , the Louvre was no longer used as a royal palace. It was finally turned into a museum in 1793 and since then, started hosting some of the best pieces of art in the world. Today, it is the most famous art gallery in Paris and the world.

Paris alone - visit the Louvre alone

Among them are the famous Leonardo’s Mona Lisa and the Virgin of the Rocks , the Wedding at Cana , the Venus of Milo , the Winged Victory, and the Coronation of Napoleon.. just to name a few of the famous paintings of the Louvre . In fact, you’ve got so much to see in the Louvre, that it doesn’t matter whether you are alone or with friends or your family.

Upon visiting, take care to also marvel at the impressive pyramid that marks the main gate. It was designed by Chinese architect Pei Cobb upon the request of François Mitterrand (the then French President).

Tip: If the queue by the Pyramid is too long, head down to the entrance “Carousel du Louvre” which you can reach directly from the Metro station. To avoid waiting times, purchase your tickets in advance here .

The Louvre is open Wednesday to Monday from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm and admission is €17.

Thanks, Claudia Tavani from ‘My Adventures Across The World’ for the suggestion

More cool things to do alone in Paris

The Mona Lisa is the most famous painting in the Louvre

#6 Explore Street Art in the 13th Arrondissement

When in Paris, and you have been to all the tourist landmarks, head to the 13th arrondissement and explore the local street art. You can explore the area on your own, but honestly, the added value of joining an organized walking tour 13th arrondissement is immense.

As art always depicts something related to the current socio-economic-political situation in France, a l ocal artist guide is great to put the art pieces into context . The 13th arrondissement is particularly well-known for its gigantic murals. Every wall design is unique and changes often, depending on the political climate.

I did the Street Art Tour with Kasia 2 years ago, and it was brilliant. It was lovely to catch up with fellow travelers, and many actually joined the tour on their own.

The 13th arrondissement is located in the southern part of Paris. Here you will find, aside from street art, as well the Chinatown of Paris , and the unique Butte-aux-Cailles . A cute neighborhood with an authentic flair, many pretty cafés, bars, and eateries.

Dave of Silverbackpacker for the suggestion

traveling to paris alone and explore the murals in the 13th arrondissement

How to get there: Take Metro line 5, 6 or 7 to Place d’Italie

Best for: Street Art, Asian culture and delicious food, village vibe at the Butte-aux-Cailles

Where to eat:  Felicità for amazing Italian food, Tang Frère for the best Bánh Mì in Paris, and Lao Lane Xang for moderate-priced Thai food that made it to the Michelin Guide

#7 Visit the Arc de Triomphe

Click here for tickets to the top of the Arc de Triomphe

For anyone visiting Paris, there are so many wonderful sights you have to tick off your solo trip to Paris itinerary , and at the top should be the Arc de Triomphe.

This magnificent structure sits at the top of the Champs-Élysées, surrounded by one of the world’s most complicated roundabouts. No matter which European City you visit , you won’t find anything alike.

This remarkable monument was built to honor French soldiers who lost their lives in the Revolutionary wars and the Napoleonic Wars. For more information, also read our article with 35 Arc de Triomphe Fun Facts .

visit the Arc de Triomphe on your solo trip to Paris

While many people take the time to stand and gaze at it from the street, you can also use the tunnels that run under the roundabout to stand underneath it. Here you will also find the Flame of the Unknown Soldier. Its story is engrained in Parisian history and because of this, it is one of the best-known monuments in the world.

The Arc de Triomphe is also one of the best places in Paris for epic views over the city and an outstanding photo spot for pictures of the Eiffel Tower!

Once at the top, you have all the time in the world to walk the entire Terrace level and get some of the most stunning views over Paris. Take your time to watch the utter chaos of the roundabout below and the truly beautiful city of Paris that surrounds you. Purchase your tickets here in advance to save time.

Recommended by Bec from Wyld Family Travel

#8 Enjoy the view from the Terrace at the Galeries Lafayette

The Galeries Lafayette is not only a place for an exquisite shopping experience, but also known for stunning panoramic views across Paris. Contrary to everything else in this shopping paradise, the rooftop is completely free!

Unlike some expensive tourist honey spots, there is a lot of room here, so you can relax and enjoy the view and not feel rushed taking that all-important selfie or impromptu photoshoot!

The space and general laid-back vibe also contribute to this being a great place to while away some time whilst visiting Paris solo. In the warmer months, there are hip pop-up restaurants that may well be busier.

The terrace is open daily from 10 am to 8 pm.

My tip for visiting Paris solo is to plan your arrival in daylight hours and wait until the sun sets!

Thanks for the recommendation, Molly from Lovely Local Indie

Visiting the Galerie Lafayette during a solo trip to Paris

#9 Visit the Palace and Gardens of Versailles

→ save time and book your visit in advance here

The Palace of Versailles is not only of the best Instagram spots in Paris , but you can truly step back in time and even escape from the crowds if you opt to explore the gardens (which are free in Winter!).

To get there, you can take the train from Paris. It’s not a very long ride, and in fact, the view from the window is quite nice. Then, once you arrive in Versailles, it’s only a short walk to the palace.

If you intend to visit Versailles, the best piece of advice is to purchase your ticket online in advance and try to show up as early as you can. This way, you can avoid the large queues.

Try to explore the palace quickly and then rent a bike out in the garden to explore the outdoors on your own. Almost nobody explores further into the gardens, so you can have an area to yourself!

Contributed by Krystianna from Volumes & Voyages

Paris alone what to do

#10 Visit the Palais Garnier

→ Get your admission tickets for the Palais Garnier here

A visit to The Palais Garnier is a must-do  indoor activity in Paris and a great way for solo travelers to experience art and culture in Paris.

From the outside, The Palais Garnier is stunning and one of the most impressive buildings in Paris. But it will also take your breath away as soon as you enter. You’ll feel like you’re in a movie about Paris and sometimes wonder if you’re in a castle or in an opera.

The best way to experience The Palais Garnier is to  watch an opera, a ballet, or a concert in the beautiful theater. It’s a perfect activity for a solo traveler in Paris, who can even meet people sitting next to them.

Even if you cannot get hold of tickets to attend a show, don’t remove The Palais Garnier from your list of activities. You can  join a tour  (guided or self-guided) to discover the beauty of the building and the iconic rooms.

Thanks for the recommendation, Eloise from My Favourite Escapes

Paris solo travel to the Opera Garnier and the beautiful golden hall

#11 Explore Montmartre on your solo travel to Paris

Exploring Montmartre is a perfect Parisian afternoon activity for a solo traveler, as taking in this charming Bohemian neighborhood is best explored on foot and in a relaxed, strolling manner.

Everyone visits Sacré Coeur, the shockingly white basilica set on a hill. Sacré Coeur is beautiful but busy. For a quieter and more unique experience, go around to the backside of the church.

Paris solo travel: spend time exploring the most beautiful Parisian neighborhoods

From here, there are many places to discover in Montmartre . Amble around Place du Tertre, watching the artists paint and sell their wares. Go see two famous restaurants: Le Consulat and La Maison Rose. Both are in distinctive buildings, that you’ve probably seen before. La Maison Rose is, for example, a filming location of the Netflix series “Emily in Paris” .

Paris Solo Trip - alone to Paris

Also read: 70+ most famous and inspiring quotes about Paris

Find some of Montmartre’s famed staircases, and then check out the famous Moulin Rouge cabaret. You can also see the lesser-known but charmingly quaint Moulin de la Galette. Lastly, stroll down the picturesque Rue de l’Abreuvoir and Rue Lepic, admiring the beautiful doors, Parisian architecture, and flower pots outside the windows! With numerous charming spots, you’re sure to enjoy your foray into this unique neighborhood.

Recommended by Stephanie from The Unknown Enthusiast

Popular walking tours for solo travelers in Montmartre

  • Best BUDGET tour:  This  Montmartre Walking tour   has the best reviews on  Get your Guide
  • Click  here  to know more about the most popular  Montmartre Food Tour !

#12 Visit Rue des Martyrs

The  best food street in Paris , Rue des Martyrs, is the perfect outing for anyone on a solo trip to Paris. This tree-lined street in the 9th has a carousel at one end, and the Neoclassical Notre Dame de Lorette church at the other. In between are food shops of every kind for locals to gather their daily provisions . Since many of these shoppers come alone, a solo traveler fits right in.

Take your time strolling past some of the most beautiful pâtisserie windows of Paris. Duck into a boulangerie for a fresh baguette, some cheese from the fromagerie , and some charcuterie from the butcher, and you’re all set for a picnic. It’s one of the best places to tick off some items from your Paris food bucket list .

Solo travel Paris: only with eating all the cheese you can

The colorful local produce is divine, and you’ll find shops for just about any food souvenir you may want, from tea to truffles and specialty chocolates. Or if you rather sit and gawk, there are many cafés for people watching and eateries to enjoy a snack.

Thanks, Denise from Chef Denise for the suggestion

#12 Enjoy time by the River Seine

What could be more iconically Parisian than sitting along the Seine River and having a drink or reading a book about Paris ? The Seine snakes through the city and, during the warmer months, its banks (or quais in French) are packed with picnickers. As the day wears on, revelers drink in the city’s beauty- and the wine that France is so famous for.

It is a fabulous place to take in the sites – for example, Port Debilly provides a quiet setting to see stunning views of the Eiffel Tower towering above. But more than anything, it’s a wonderful environment to sit back, people watch, and enjoy the lively spirit of Paris .

Solo travel to Paris

For the best people-watching (and meeting!) opportunities, consider stopping by the Latin Steps, where the riverbank transforms into a public dance floor almost every night in the summer. No matter what level of ability you are- and regardless if you have a partner – you’ll be welcomed into salsa, tango, or just groove the night away.

Thanks, Jessica from Uproot Traveler for the suggestion

#13 Visit the musée d’Orsay when travelling to Paris alone

→ don’t lose time, book your ticket to the Musée d’Orsay here

One of the most popular and famous landmarks in Paris is the D’orsay museum, located on the left bank of the Seine River. It is not only a beautiful building but holds an unbelievable number of impressionist masterpieces.

The Musée d’Orsay is a perfect solo experience. You can take all the time in the world to explore this once fine art building, which was originally a railway station and then transformed into a magnificent museum featuring these Impressionism masters. You’ll find paintings by all the major artists, like Degas, Matisse, Monet, and Van Gogh, just to name a few.

solo paris travel

All the galleries are broken up into individual artist collections, so you get to savor all of your favorite artists in each section. If you are keen on trying some amazing food, take a break in their grand hall salon, which is a spectacular glass atrium with wonderful French-inspired cuisine to experience. Reserve your tickets here and save time when there.

Recommended by Noel from This Hawaii Life

#14 Try delicious pastry at Odette

Odette is remarkable for solo travelers craving a slow afternoon in Paris. A place, where they can experience the city like a local and yet still sit and relax among some of Paris’ most famous historic landmarks. Odette Pâtisserie must be added to your itinerary.

The original Odette location (there are two now) is incomparable. At 77 rue Galande, just behind the famous bookstore Shakespeare & Company , the pâtisserie is small but full of character. From the eye-popping yet classic elements of Art-Deco design to the breathtaking views of Notre Dame Cathedral from the cozy upstairs tearoom.

The entire experience of an afternoon snack at Odette is one-of-a-kind.

Traveling to Paris alone - what to do in Paris alone

It’s ideal for solo travelers because the atmosphere is intimate; nothing to stop you from sipping hot chocolate and enjoying their famous cream puffs on your own . At Odette, you experience Paris authentically, escaping the city’s bustle for a moment, while watching over the liveliness from the windows at your own pace.

Thanks, Michela from SHE goes the distance for the suggestion

Voilà, travelling to Paris alone is a truly great experience, and you can be sure not to get bored. It is very common in Paris to take yourself to dinner or to a museum, so you don’t have to worry to sticking out when enjoying your own company.

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PS: Check out these posts, they will help you plan your solo trip in Paris

  • Paris hidden gems: 80+ well kept secrets you shouldn’t miss
  • 14 Hotels with stunning Eiffel Tower views- for (almost) every budget!
  • Your Perfect 2 Days in Paris! Itinerary & Insider Tips
  • These are the best 5 Cabarets in Paris
  • 5 ways to get from Charles de Gaulle airport to Paris – THE complete guide!
  • Scams in Paris! How to avoid the most common cons

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Solo Travel to Paris

FAQ Solo Travel Paris

Paris is one of the safest cities in Europe and on place 23 of the worldwide index of safest cities. When it comes to personal security, Paris is even ranging on place 6. Traveling to Paris alone is at least as safe as staying in your hometown. Likely even safer.

Absolutely. Paris is a fantastic city with more things to do than you can possibly squeeze into your stay. You have a plethora of sights, museums, exhibitions, landmarks, shops, restaurants, bars, shows and parks to pick from, and you are surely not getting bored. The wide range of activities is the perfect perquisite for a city that is wonderful to visit alone.

Yes, undoubtedly. Paris is one of the safest cities in Europe and ranks on place 6 (word wide) when it comes to personal safety. Apply the usual precautions and common sense, as you would in your hometown. I spend most of my time in Paris on my own, and I never had any issues.

The best things to do in Paris alone are visiting the Eiffel Tower, take lots of time in the fantastic Parisian museums, enjoying a glass of wine by yourself, reading a book in one of the lovely gardens, browsing the millions of stores… and relish Paris at your own pace.

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Wander With Alex

Wander With Alex

Heading to Paris? Activities for Your Parisian Adventure!

Posted: January 30, 2024 | Last updated: February 5, 2024

Visiting Paris, France is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for many people! Here are 15 things to do in Paris, with travel tips, to help you get the most out of your vacation!

15 Lovely Things to Do in Paris, France on Your Vacation + Travel Tips

Whether on your bucket list or you’re in the city of love and lights for your honeymoon, there are countless things to do in Paris, France. This large and populated city will keep you entertained from early morning to late night. From art, history, and museums to cafes and bars, you’ll definitely want to create a travel itinerary for this trip!

We were on our honeymoon and spent four days in this gorgeous city. While four days and five nights in Paris won’t allow you to do it all, you can easily see many main attractions, enjoy good food, and get a basic feel for the city with this time. Below, you will find 15 things to do in Paris, plus a few travel tips to help you get the most out of your vacation!

There is so much to see and do; you should plan around your own interests. It’s a densely populated city of over two million people and has things to do around every corner. Below are some of the city's most popular sites and attractions. 

Top of the Eiffel Tower Paris, France

1. Go Up The Eiffel Tower

The Eiffel Tower, lovingly known as the Iron Lady, was built in two years, from 1887 to 1889; she’s over 135 years old! She has 1,665 steps that, unfortunately to my adventure seekers, you can only climb from the bottom to the second floor. Otherwise, you’ll take a lift.

You can buy tickets to access the second floor or the top. Either way, you’ll gain beautiful views of the city of lights. If you’re on a budget and don’t want to pay to visit the Eiffel Tower, don’t worry. You can see her beauty from all around the city!

Interesting fact: Hilter loved Paris and the Eiffel Tower. So much so that he arranged a visit to declare the Iron Lady as his own. Of course, the Parisians did not want this to happen. So, when he came to visit, they told Hitler that the lifts were broken and he would have to climb 1,665 steps to get to the top. Guess what? Their clever plan worked!

15 Lovely Things to Do in Paris on Your Vacation + Travel Tips

2. Musée du Louvre

The Lourve Museum is quite the museum, housing over 380,000 objects of art and artifacts. First, visit the iconic pyramids located in the courtyard– there is no entry fee to do this. The courtyard is significant, and you can get many beautiful photos from many angles.

If you’re a fan of art, then you’ll want to get tickets to go inside this masterpiece! The Lourve Museum is the most-visited museum in the world and is where the Mona Lisa lives! Also, be sure to take a walk around the courtyard at night. The main pyramid will light up, offering spectacular options for photography lovers. 

15 Lovely Things to Do in Paris on Your Vacation + Travel Tips

3. Jardin des Tuileries

The Tuileries Garden is a massive public garden that is definitely worth a stroll. This beautiful garden was created in 1564 and was originally the garden for the Tuileries Palace. Stroll through the many gardens and fountains, or sit in front of the artwork and marvel at its beauty for a while.

There are even several cafes where you can stop for a bite or a sip of wine during your visit. There are public restrooms on the grounds, but be sure to bring your own toilet paper, as the toilets aren’t always stocked! Bring hand sanitizer with you, too!

15 Lovely Things to Do in Paris on Your Vacation + Travel Tips

4. Arc de Triomphe & Champs-Élysées Ave

The Arc de Triomphe is one of the most famous monuments in Paris. The monument is a memorial to all who have served and died for France during the French Revolutionary and Napoleonic Wars. The monument can be found on the western end of Champs-Élysées Avenue, so you can kill two birds with one stone.

Stroll Champs-Élysées Avenue and do a little shopping, or stop at a Cafe for lunch on your walk to the Arc de Triomphe. Once you arrive at the monument, you will be in awe of its size and beauty. Exploring the outside of the monument is free, but if you want beautiful views of the city, grab yourself a ticket to go to the top!

15 Lovely Things to Do in Paris on Your Vacation + Travel Tips

5. Musée d'Orsay

If you are curious about French art, visiting the Orsay Museum is a must. This large museum houses mostly French artwork from 1884 to 1914. When you first arrive, you will be awed by the beautiful sculptures and art in the museum's center. Then, you can make your way around the rooms that cover different periods.

You will find popular pieces from artists like Vincent Van Gough and his Starry Night to artists such as Claude Monet and Edgar Degas. Audio tours are offered, and exhibits are labeled in French and English. Be sure to give yourself at least two hours if you’re an avid art lover. 

15 Lovely Things to Do in Paris on Your Vacation + Travel Tips

6. Latin Quarter & Parthenon

Don’t miss a stroll through the Latin Quarter when in Paris! There are landmarks, shopping, a nearby University, and many cafes to visit. The area is also home to the Jardin de Plantes (botanical gardens) and the National Museum of Natural History.

The Parthenon, King Louis XV's project, can also be found in the Latin Quarter. Initially serving as a church, the building is now a mausoleum. To roam outside the Paris Parthenon is free, but you can also buy tickets to explore inside or take a guided tour. 

15 Lovely Things to Do in Paris on Your Vacation + Travel Tips

7. Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris

Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris caught fire in April 2019. Construction continues today, preventing you from visiting the inside of the cathedral that was opened to the public in 1345. However, this has not stopped tourists from visiting the outside of the massive church. It can be spotted from around the city, or take a stroll for a few up close and personal photos. 

15 Lovely Things to Do in Paris on Your Vacation + Travel Tips

8. Le Marais Neighborhood

Le Marias is a charming neighborhood in Paris filled with boutiques, shops, art, bars, and cafes.  It is also a hotspot for fun LGBTQ bars. The area was once known as the Jewish Quarter, and many kosher restaurants can still be found there today. There are several off-the-beaten-path museums in the area that you can also visit. The area is beautifully lit at night, making for a fun and romantic spot for a dinner date or a few drinks with friends. 

15 Lovely Things to Do in Paris on Your Vacation + Travel Tips

9. Jardin du Luxembourg

On the grounds of the Luxembourg Palace, the Luxembourg Gardens are spectacular! This 60-acre public park has flowers, plants, sculptures, fountains, and cafes. Take a stroll, or sit within the gardens and marvel at its beauty. There are many photogenic places around the gardens as well. Currently the seat of the French Senate, you can buy tickets for a tour of the Palace if you must go in! 

15 Lovely Things to Do in Paris on Your Vacation + Travel Tips

10. Sainte-Chapelle

Opened in 1248, this historic gothic-style royal chapel is a wonderful visit. Marvel at the outside of the chapel and its beautiful architecture, and then buy tickets to go inside! You will be able to visit two floors (you must climb the stairs). Inside, you will find beautiful stained glass windows that tell the Bible's story. It is one of the most impressive 13th-century sainted glass chapels that can be found around the world. 

15 Lovely Things to Do in Paris on Your Vacation + Travel Tips

11. Moulin Rouge

If you’re feeling a little risqué or don’t mind nudity, you can visit the famous Moulin Rouge cabaret. Opened in 1889, this birthplace of the French can-can dance is a marvelous visit during the evening. If you wish to see a musical show, buy your tickets well in advance. If you attempt to purchase tickets for more than one person just a few days ahead, you will not have luck. 

15 Lovely Things to Do in Paris on Your Vacation + Travel Tips

12. Basilica of Sacré Coeur de Montmartre

The Basilica of Sacré Coeur de Montmartre is a gorgeous hilltop church in the Montmartre neighborhood of Paris that opened in 1875. Open from 6:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily, this exquisite sight is free and open to the public. Whether you visit during the day or at night, it is spectacular! 

As you climb the outside steps, you will see gates with hundreds or thousands of love locks! Don’t have your own? Don't worry; there are many people on the streets selling locks! Once inside the church, you will be amazed at its size and beauty.

Be sure to stay quiet and be respectful, as it is a place of worship. And, if you want a spectacular view of Paris, you can climb the (no lift) 300 steps to the Dome.

When you’re done visiting the church, be sure to roam the streets of the Montmartre neighborhood! It gets lively in the evenings, and there are many cafes to stop by and grab a bite or have a glass of wine!

15 Lovely Things to Do in Paris on Your Vacation + Travel Tips

13. Saint-Germain-des-Prés Neighborhood

The Saint Germain neighborhood in Paris is a beautiful place to visit and a great place to call home base. It is central to many famous sights and near the Seine River. You can easily walk to many places, such as shopping, bars, cafes, museums, churches, and art galleries.

Walk through the neighborhood and enjoy a gelato or a delicious macaron. Charming cafes sit on the corners, and the views of the Seine River are impeccable. A popular thing to do in the evenings is to take a bottle of wine to the river, sit by the bank, and enjoy each other’s company! 

15 Lovely Things to Do in Paris on Your Vacation + Travel Tips

14. Seine River Cruise

While in Paris, be sure to book a Seine River cruise! For a romantic outing, take a dinner cruise at sunset. Sunset is truly the best time for any cruise. You will have spectacular views of the Eiffel Tower and many other landmarks .

Many cruises are guided in English and will give you intimate information about the sites you see. Pass beneath the beautiful bridges and take as many photos as your heart desires!

15 Lovely Things to Do in Paris on Your Vacation + Travel Tips

15. Day Trip to the Palace of Versailles

The Palace of Versailles and its gardens are exquisite! This 18th-century palace built by King Louis XIV is a 45-minute drive from Paris and is perfect for a day trip. If you love art and history, book a full-day guided tour.

If you like to wander on your own, this can be more of a half-day trip. Either way, you won’t be sorry! You’ll roam endless rooms elaborately decorated, filled floor to ceiling with art. Then, get lost in the magnificent gardens, which feel like a maze. 

15 Lovely Things to Do in Paris on Your Vacation + Travel Tips

Essential Travel Tips for Your Paris Vacation

If you are traveling to Paris or Europe for the first time, you should know some essential things. Below, you will find nine tips to help you with your travel to Paris!

Things to Do in Paris, France

Final Thoughts

If you’re traveling to Paris for your vacation or honeymoon, let me tell you, it is worth it! We spent four days in Paris and were able to do all of the things you have found on this list. We visited in early September when the crowds were lessened, and the weather was still lovely. Be sure to plan your visit ahead of time and book tours well in advance. I hope you enjoy your upcoming visit to Paris, France!

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travelling to paris advice

The sneaky way to get the best view in Paris for free – and avoid the €25 fee for Eiffel Tower

  • Neha Dhillon
  • Published : 20:09, 24 Mar 2024
  • Updated : 20:09, 24 Mar 2024

THE CITY of love is certainly not the city for the skint, but with a few top tips you could enjoy the best of Paris for next to nothing.

One local shared how her husband wooed her with the best views of the city - and it wasn't from the top of the Eiffel Tower .

A Parisian has shared the best spot to soak in the beauty of Paris

The Parisian boasted that the location was actually far better than the infamous landmark, and said that she now takes all of her friends.

Not only can you see the Eiffel Tower itself, but you can also see the Arc de Triomphe, Palais Garnier opera house, the Sacré-Cœur Basilica, and it's all for free.

All you have to do is head to Galeries Lafayette Paris Haussmann department store - a 19th-century building that is home to a long list of iconic French designers .

And although the shops might contain hefty pricetags, heading to the rooftop to admire the views is completely free.

read more travel tips

travelling to paris advice

From travel tips to cash hacks… beat the squeeze on your holidays

travelling to paris advice

Heathrow appoints Judith Chalmers as 'Chief Smile Officer' to help holidaymakers

So if you're heading to Paris any time soon, take the metro to the Opéra station, and make your way to Galeries Lafayette.

The rooftop can be accessed from escalators heading to the top floor of the Coupole building - but there is also an elevator.

Once on the rooftop, you're completely free to spend however long you like soaking in the panoramic beauty.

Standing directly in front of you is the building that inspired the Phantom of the Opera , you can also see the gorgeous Montmartre neighbourhood, and the Notre Dame .

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As if that wasn't enough, inside the Coupole building is a newly-constructed nine metre long glass walkway suspended in mid-air.

The walkway, situated on the 3rd floor, has been created to immerse you in the heart of the historical building - and the best bit is it's completely free.

Last year, one woman revealed how she was able to travel to Paris for just £1 .

Mindy Athwal explained how she uses points accumulated on her credit card to save on her travel, so she can spend more at her destination.

She said: "I always use Avios air miles. I have a gold American Express card which converts points gained from everyday spending to any airline reward points.

"I use it for almost every purchase, big or small, bills where possible, fuel and any large purchases, and I get points for expenditure I would make anyway.

“For my trip to Paris I used Avios points on the  British Airways  rewards app to book a reward flight for 11,000 points, which meant I only had to pay £1 for the flight."

Mindy also saves money on her travel costs by collecting "stamps" on hotels.com that gives people  reward nights  when they book a certain amount of nights through the platform.

She said that she didn't pay a penny for her accommodation and ended up staying for free in a five star hotel in the centre of Paris for free.

There are other ways holidaymakers can get good deals on luxury hotels too, including  mystery hotels .

Jen Avery, from Thrifty Nomads told Metro: "These  booking websites  negotiate discounted rates on vacant rooms. Users, however, don’t learn their accommodation’s identity before purchase.

"As this is especially true of higher-end retreats wanting to save face, mystery deals often yield significant savings on five-star stays."

Meanwhile, the new generation is embracing using social media for advice on the best holiday deals.

Gilleesa Gillen, 24, a social media manager, said: "I think of  TikTok  as my travel best friend.

“It’s so good for finding recommendations for places to have lunch, dinner, brunch, breakfast, drinks, events happening that maybe when you Google a place they’re just showing you sponsored ads.”

Gilleesa said that TikTok helped tourists find underground spots not widely advertised.

She said: "I’ll combine the place name with something like ‘travel’ or ‘itinerary’ and then things that I want to do.

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“If I want to see if there’s any thrift shops or flea markets, I could put something like ‘New York thrift shops’ and see what comes up.

"Or if I want to discover the countryside in Turkey, I’d put ‘Turkey countryside itinerary’.”

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IMAGES

  1. Essential Paris Travel Tips

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  2. 100+ Helpful Paris Travel Tips & Tricks [Must-Knows Before You Visit Paris]

    travelling to paris advice

  3. Paris Travel Guide

    travelling to paris advice

  4. Paris Travel Advice

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  5. 15 SECRET Paris Tips for Your Paris Vacation!

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  6. 8 Tips for Visiting and Traveling to Paris

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COMMENTS

  1. Paris Travel Tips: 50 Important Things To Know Before Going To Paris

    4. Buy skip-the-line tickets in advance to avoid wasting time in queues. Louvre museum queues. One of the most useful tips when visiting Paris is to buy skip-the-line entry tickets to attractions in advance. Paris is one of the most visited cities in Europe, so you can expect long queues at its popular attractions.

  2. The Ultimate Paris Travel Guide: How to Plan a Trip to Paris

    PRO TRAVEL TIP: If we have plans to visit just one site outside of the Paris city center (for example, Versailles OR an airport) we purchase a zone 1-3 Paris Visite Pass and a single ticket for the RER. A single journey to Versailles costs €4.15 (€8.30 return) and a single journey to Charles de Gaulle airport costs €11.80, which is still ...

  3. Visiting Paris: 12 essential travel tips

    This travel guide will help you plan your trip, save some money, and make the best of your visit to Paris. 1. Choose the right time to visit Paris. Paris is alive with activities in June, July, and August. These summer months promise long days of sunshine with temperatures ranging from 59 to 77 degrees Fahrenheit.

  4. 13 things to know before traveling to Paris

    6. Get familiar with cafe culture etiquette. The best places to experience Paris and its people are at the cafes. Take a moment to rest on a terrasse - cafe tables on the street - to people-watch while planning the next part of your day. Upon arrival, simply choose a table and sit; servers will come and attend to you.

  5. 30+ Prime Paris Travel Tips (Every First Time Visitor Must Know!)

    You have the option of a two, three, four or six day passes that range in price from €115 to €229. #11. Take advantage of the performing-arts theaters. As an artistic hub that attracts people from all over the world, one of my best Paris travel tips is to not overlook the city's many performing arts theaters.

  6. 50+ Paris Travel Tips You Need to Know Before Visiting

    First time in Paris? Watch the Paris tips video; Best Paris travel tips #1 The best time to visit Paris is in the shoulder seasons #2 Plan your accommodation well in advance and stay in a central location #3 Paris is a city best explored on foot #4 Take some free and self-guided walking tours #5 Beware of pickpockets and common travel scams

  7. Best Tips for Visiting Paris for the First Time (by a Local!)

    One week in Paris. 2. Don't Leave without Travel Insurance for your First Trip to Paris. It's important not to skimp on Travel Insurance when you plan your first trip to Paris. Unfortunately, bad things happen when you least expect it, so the best thing you can do for yourself is to be insured.

  8. 27 Essential Paris Travel Tips: Things to Know Before Traveling to

    27 Paris Tips You Need to Know. 1. Spring and Fall are the best times to visit Paris to avoid crowds. I know you can't always be flexible with your travel dates, however, if you can steer clear of visiting Paris in July and August I highly recommend it. Ideally, try visiting Paris in April-May or September-October.

  9. Paris Travel Guide: Everything You Need to Know Before Visiting

    A travel writer's ultimate travel guide to Paris, France. The iconic city of Paris deserves a spot on every traveler's bucket list. Paris is the City of Light, a destination steeped in style ...

  10. Tips for Planning Your Trip to Paris: The Complete Guide

    Layer up each day so you can manage. Money - Not literally, but put aside a strong budget for Paris. You can definitely admire the free outdoor architecture but there is a lot to do and it is a shame to miss it all. If you want to do it right, budget 50€ per day for activities.

  11. 13 Practical Tips for Visiting Paris: How to Avoid Mistakes

    4. Stay in Central Location. I cannot emphasize this more! Pinning down the perfect place to stay depends on budget and location, but quite often the second one is way more important as you think. Paris is divided into 20 neighborhoods or arrondissements and everything is being referred to 12th, 18th, etc.

  12. 39 Essential Things To Know Before Going To Paris (2023)

    With comfortable seating, onboard amenities, and the ability to avoid airport hassles, traveling to Paris by train is an excellent option for experiencing the beautiful landscapes of Europe and arriving directly in the heart of this captivating city. 4. The Lounge at Charles de Gaulle is BEFORE Security.

  13. 100+ Helpful Paris Travel Tips & Tricks [Must-Knows Before You Visit Paris]

    Here are my best Paris travel tips related to packing. Bring comfy shoes. Paris is a city made for walking and exploring. It's also a city made of cobblestones! I know you might want to dress cute for your Paris trip, but do yourself a favour and pack only practical shoes that you can walk a whole day in. Your feet will thank you later.

  14. 5 Expert Tips to Know Before You Travel to Paris

    Tip 1: When to go. It's safe to say that Paris is dreamy all year round - but each season offers a unique vignette. Summer sees Paris at its most crowded, but it's when most festivals and events in the city take place, and when visitors can take full advantage of café terraces and sunbathing along the Seine.

  15. 19 Crucial Paris Travel Tips to Not Look Like a Tourist

    This guide to crucial Paris travel tips will cover…. Do learn some handy French phrases to get by. Don't allow random people to pick you up from the airport. Do be organised by booking accommodation & attractions in advance. Do always greet people in stores & restaurants with bonjour first.

  16. Americans in Paris: Things to Know Before Going to Paris for the First

    5- Book Some Sightseeing Tickets in Advance. The last thing you want to do in Paris is spend your time waiting in line. There are some ways to avoid the longest lines in Paris, but buying skip-the-line tickets for the main tourist attractions is key.So once you have finalized your travel dates, start purchasing tickets to some of the top tourist sights in Paris in advance.

  17. 25 Tips for Traveling to Paris for the First Time

    7. Try the bread and pastries. These travel tips for Paris had to include a visit to the local bakeries, or boulangeries. Nobody makes bread like the French, so eat as much of it as you can. Paris is known for making incredible bread, so don't skip the opportunity to try the bread and pastries.

  18. Tips For Traveling To Paris For The First Time

    Now, let's pretend you're planning on doing a short 3 days in Paris! If it's your first visit, you should go for some Paris sightseeing! The Eiffel Tower should be on your list, but if you're planning on crossing off the Parisian bucket list, you should also check out the Louvre, the Catacombs, and Versailles!

  19. Paris Travel Tips That No One Has Ever Told You

    Tips for Saving Money on Food in Paris. 'Prix fixe' or set menus are a great way to save on money while eating out in Paris. Most restaurants, even Michelin-star restaurants offer set lunch menus during the weekdays (Mondays - Fridays). Whether your goal is to travel sustainably or save money, you can avoid buying bottled water while in ...

  20. Traveling to Paris for the First Time (2024): Tips & Tricks

    12. Visit top sights early in the morning or before closing time. As you probably already know, the main landmarks in cities like Paris are always at their busiest during the day (+- 10 am to 3-4 pm). So if you can, try to visit the most popular landmarks first thing in the morning or just before they close.

  21. 17 Paris Travel Tips For an Especially EXTRA Trip to Paris

    See if Paris tours are worth it. 17. Climb the Arc De Triomphe. Considered by many to be the best view in Paris, this triumphant arch sits in the middle of a busy intersection connected to Avenue des Champs-Élysées. It costs €13 to get inside and you have to climb over 284 steps to get to the top, but it's worth it.

  22. The Perfect Paris Packing List (By a Local)

    Put at least one pair on your packing list and in your capsule wardrobe. The ARIAT Women's Straight Leg Jean are my favorite blue jeans for Paris. The mid-rise and medium-dark wash make it classic, while the stretch makes it comfortable. These Levi's Men's 559 Relaxed Straight Jeans are a good, similar option for men.

  23. Paris Travel Hacks: The best travel tips for travelling to Paris

    I'd add: 1. always stay centrally, so you can walk to most places you want to go; and 2. go up the Montparnasse Tower: the view is brilliant and you are looking at the Eiffel Tower from up high. Thank you so much for mentioning Spotted by Locals! Our Paris local will be thrilled. All the best, Bart - Co-founder.

  24. France travel advice

    Travel insurance. If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance. Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency ...

  25. Traveling Solo to Paris: How to enjoy Paris alone (Tips & Tricks)

    The best Arrondissement to stay in Paris (Top 3 + Hotel Tips) Traveling to Paris Solo: Why there's Nothing to Worry About. Paris is a terrific city and a dream destination for so many of us. The sheer abundance of activities, experiences, and impressions Paris offers has the power to make your heart overflow with joy. Not having (or wanting ...

  26. Heading to Paris? Activities for Your Parisian Adventure!

    Visiting Paris, France is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for many people! Here are 15 things to do in Paris, with travel tips, to help you get the most out of your vacation!

  27. The sneaky way to get the best view in Paris for free

    OOH LA LA The sneaky way to get the best view in Paris for free - and avoid the €25 fee for Eiffel Tower

  28. 'Only reliable form of transport': How FlixBus became a firm favourite

    Coach travel's emissions stand the test when compared to cars or planes. "Passengers avoided more than 800,000 tonnes of CO2 in 2022 alone just by choosing Flix services over cars or planes ...