10 Best Apps you NEED to download for your trip to Paris
Paris is the city of dreams. But let’s be honest—it’s easy to feel lost in the planning process.
You want a smooth trip, right?
No confusion, no missed spots, just pure Parisian bliss.
That’s where my travel experience kicks in.
I’ve been to Paris enough to know which apps will turn your trip from overwhelming to unforgettable.
If you’re ready to navigate Paris like a pro and make the most of every moment, these ten apps are your secret weapons.
Let’s get you ready for the trip of a lifetime.
1. Google Maps (Android & iOS)
What It Does: Google Maps is your all-in-one navigation tool. It’s not just about directions; it’s your guide to exploring Paris, helping you discover hidden gems and find your way through the city’s maze-like streets. You can also use offline maps to help you find your way which is one of the best things about Google Maps!
Why You Need It: Paris is a beautiful labyrinth. Even with the best guidebooks, it’s easy to get turned around. Google Maps keeps you on track, ensuring you don’t miss a single landmark or café.
Personal Experience: On my first trip, I wandered aimlessly through Montmartre, unsure of where to go next. Google Maps led me to a quiet square where I had the best croissant of my life. I never travel without it now.
Tip: I sometimes also look on Google Maps what public transport to use, especially when I am not close to the Paris Metro. However, it is not always super correct.
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2. Citymapper (Android & iOS)
What It Does: Citymapper is your ultimate companion for mastering Paris’s public transport. It provides real-time updates, detailed routes, and even lets you know the best metro car to be in for a quick exit.
Why You Need It: Paris’s metro system is extensive but can be confusing. Citymapper simplifies everything, making sure you always take the quickest and most efficient route. It is honestly an app that will make your Paris experience when it comes to public transport really great. Especially since it provides real-time information on public transportation in the city of lights!
Personal Experience: One evening, after losing track of time at the Louvre, I needed to get to a dinner reservation across town. Citymapper had me on the right bus, in the right spot, and at the restaurant with minutes to spare. Even though there was a metro closeby, Citymapper chose the best route to get me to my location in the least amount of time.
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3. Duolingo (Android & iOS)
What It Does: Duolingo is a fun, easy way to pick up some basic French before your trip. The app offers short, engaging lessons that help you learn key phrases you’ll actually use in Paris.
Why You Need It: While many Parisians speak English, knowing a bit of French goes a long way as a traveller in Paris. Duolingo gives you the confidence to greet people, order food, and ask for directions without hesitation.
Personal Experience: I have not really used Duolingo for French as I learned French in school, but I am using it extensively to pick up Greek. It is super user-friendly and it can really improve your language skills in a short span of time! I love it!
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4. TheFork (Android & iOS)
What It Does: TheFork is an essential mobile app for finding and booking the best restaurants in Paris. It’s packed with reviews, photos, and discounts at top spots around the city.
Why You Need It: Paris is a culinary capital, but getting a table at the best places can be tough. TheFork makes sure that you find a great restaurant without the wait, and sometimes even at a discount.
Personal Experience: I actually haven’t used TheFork in Paris yet because I do very extensive research before going and I have my favourite restaurants I cannot help but go back to. I did use it in Bordeaux however and it has since become one of my favourite travel apps when it comes to France! It lets you read all the reviews and the app also lets you book tables!
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5. Google Translate (Android & iOS)
What It Does: Google Translate is your go-to app for breaking down language barriers. It translates text, voice, and even images in real-time, making it easy to navigate menus and signs or have a simple conversation.
Why You Need It: Not everything in Paris is conveniently translated into English. Google Translate helps you understand exactly what’s on that menu or what that sign is telling you, so you can focus on enjoying your trip.
Personal Experience: Again, I do not often use Google Translate in the french capital because I speak French, BUT I use it ALL the friggin time when I am travelling outside of the UK, France of Belgium.
Tip: the way I mostly use Google Translate is through the Google Lens app. It means that I can point at something with my phone and that the app can then in real time translate what the camera is pointing at. It is super handy! I use it all the time when travelling! The only downside is that you need wi-fi or data for it to work.
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6. Visit Paris by Metro (iOS)
What It Does: Visit Paris by Metro is the official app of RATP, Paris’s public transport authority. It’s the best app for real-time metro maps, service updates, and detailed routes.
Why You Need It: While other apps are great, the official metro app gives you the most reliable and up-to-date information. If there’s a delay or a planned closure, you’ll be the first to know.
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7. Uber (Android & iOS)
What It Does: Uber offers a convenient and reliable way to get around Paris, especially when public transport isn’t an option and a taxi is too expensive (trust me, they are super expensive!). You can avoid language barriers by entering your destination directly into the app.
Why You Need It: There are moments when navigating the metro with luggage or late at night just isn’t appealing. Uber ensures you can get where you need to go, safely and comfortably.
Personal Experience: My last visit to Paris I had a lot of luggage with me and my husband and I decided to just take an Uber from the Airport into the city. More expensive? Yes. But also a lot more convenient than public transport.
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8. XE Currency (Android & iOS)
What It Does: XE Currency is a must-have app for converting prices on the go. It updates in real-time, ensuring you always know how much you’re spending in your home currency.
Why You Need It: Paris can be expensive, and it’s easy to lose track of what you’re spending. XE Currency helps you stay on budget by showing you exactly how much that chic scarf or fancy dinner will cost in your currency.
Personal Experience: While shopping on the Champs-Élysées, I was eyeing a stylish jacket. XE Currency quickly converted the price, helping me decide whether it fit within my budget.
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9. Louvre Museum (iOS)
What It Does: The Louvre Museum app is your personal guide to one of the world’s most famous museums. It offers maps, audio guides, and detailed information about the artwork.
Why You Need It: The Louvre is enormous, and it’s easy to get overwhelmed. This app helps you plan your visit, guiding you to the must-see pieces and ensuring you don’t miss anything important.
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10. TripIt (Android & iOS)
What It Does: TripIt organizes all your travel plans in one place. It automatically imports your flight, hotel, and car rental information, creating a master itinerary that’s easy to access and share.
Why You Need It: Traveling can get chaotic with all the bookings, reservations, and schedules. TripIt keeps everything in order, so you don’t have to dig through emails to find your hotel’s address or your flight details.
Personal Experience: TripIt has become my travel lifesaver. On my last trip to Paris, I had everything—from my flight info to restaurant reservations—in one easy-to-access place. When my flight was delayed, TripIt even updated my itinerary in real-time. It’s the app I never travel without now.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are the best apps you need for your trip to Paris?
A: There are a ton of apps that can make your Paris experience smoother! Some of the best apps include the RATP app for navigating the Paris metro system, Google Translate for communicating with locals, and Moovit for real-time transit info. Don’t forget about dining apps to find the best deals on food!
Q: How can I navigate Paris easily with my smartphone?
A: To navigate Paris hassle-free, you should definitely download the RATP app. It’s an essential tool for navigating the Paris metro and bus system. It’ll help you find the best routes and schedules so you can explore the city without any stress!
Q: Is there an app that helps me find good beer in Paris?
A: Absolutely! There are several apps that can guide you to the best beer spots. Look for apps that curate lists of local bars and breweries. I myself am an avid user of Untappd which is a beer app that not only lets you rate beers but will also tell you what beers are available at certain pubs and cafés if they are signed up to the app (which they will be if they are beer-focussed).
Q: What’s the best way to use public transport in Paris?
A: The Paris metro system is super efficient! Use the RATP app to get real-time updates on the metro and bus schedules. It’ll help you navigate Paris like a pro and save you time getting to all the must-see spots!
Q: Can I use a translation app to communicate with locals?
A: Yes! A translation app like Google Translate is perfect for communicating with locals. Just type in what you want to say, and it’ll translate it for you. Don’t be afraid to try out your French, even if it’s just a simple “Bonjour!”
Q: Are there any apps that help with biking around Paris?
A: Definitely! If you’re into biking, check out apps like Vélib’ which will show you bike rental stations around the city. It’s a great way to explore Paris while enjoying the fresh air!
Q: What app can I use to plan my Paris vacation?
A: For planning your Paris vacation, consider using an all-in-one travel app. Look for ones that offer itinerary planning, hotel bookings, and even dining options. They often have features that help you find the best deals too!
Q: How do I find hidden gems in Paris using apps?
A: To discover hidden gems in Paris, use local guide apps that curate unique spots and experiences. These apps often highlight lesser-known attractions and dining options that you won’t find in typical tourist guides!
Q: What’s the best taxi app to use in Paris?
A: For getting around the city of Paris, Uber is a popular choice, but you can also use local taxi apps like G7 Taxi. They’re reliable and easy to use, making your trip that much smoother!
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