Paris travel guide
Planning a trip to Paris?
Amazing!
Feeling a bit overwhelmed?
Don’t be!
Sure, travelling to Paris for the first time can seem a bit daunting. It is a major European city and yes, you do need to watch out not to get pickpocked or scammed as a tourist. Additionally there is so much to do and see and experience – and it can be hard to pick and choose what to do and what to skip.
As I grew up in Belgium I have travelled to Paris numerous times. I still remember the very first time I travelled to Paris solo and I was mortified – was I going to get scammed? Would I be pickpocketed? How will I get around on my own? What about hotels? Or getting tickets for atractions?
Well, in this article I have compiled 25 tips that will form the basics to a complete guide on travelling to Paris for the first time – it will teach you to avoid common pitfalls and fully enjoy your time in Paris!
Let’s get you prepped to fly to Paris! On-y vas!
1. Understand the Basics
Before we start it is important to understand the absolute basics about Paris.
Currency: The currency in Paris is the Euro (€). ATMs are widely available, and most places accept credit cards. I would always recommend carrying some cash for smaller purchases. Most places in Paris will NOT accept USD or any other currency than Euro.
Language: French is the official language. Many people in Paris will be able to speak English but it is still a good idea to learn a few basic phrases. I would recommend getting a small phrasebook – even if you butcher the language, at least you show the locals you are putting in the effort (and that is often very appreciated!).
Time Zone: Paris operates on Central European Time (CET), which is UTC +1. During daylight saving time, it’s UTC +2.
Tipping: Service charges are ALWAYS included in France. It’s the law. If you want to tip, however, you can. Most French people will leave 1 euro for a few drinks and 2 to 3 euro if they have had a meal.
2. Best Time to Visit
I am going to be honest – I love Paris all year round. I agree with Woody Allen that Paris is beautiful in the rain (but that’s just silly old me). The best times overall are April to June and then September to November. The weather will be milder and there will be less crowds around. Paris can get pretty hot in summer!
Spring: Temperatures are moderate. Lots of flowers in bloom. Great for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
Summer: Weather can be pretty warm. Peak tourist season with lots of crowds and higher prices. Longer days so you can sit out on a terrace with a wine until very late.
Autumn: Moderate temperatures that can get a bit cold towards the end of autumn. Rain. Great for exploring museums.
Winter: Cold and rainy. Paris is amazing during the holiday season and it’s great for seeing the decorations and doing some holiday shopping.
3. Hotels and accommodation in Paris
Paris is a big city. That’s why it’s rather important to choose a good neighborhood to stay in!
Le Marais: A trendy area with historic buildings, chic boutiques, and vibrant nightlife.
Latin Quarter: Known for its bohemian vibe, lively streets It is close to famous landmarks like the Pantheon and Notre-Dame.
Montmartre: A charming, hilly neighborhood with artistic history, narrow streets, and the famous Sacré-Cœur Basilica.
Saint-Germain-des-Prés: Elegant and intellectual, with iconic cafes, boutiques, and art galleries.
Types of Accommodations:
- Hotels: From luxury to budget-friendly, hotels are plentiful. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak seasons.
- Airbnb: Offers a range of options from private rooms to entire apartments.
- Hostels: Ideal for budget travelers, offering affordable dormitory-style accommodations.
🛏️ Find accommodation in Paris
4. Transportation
Public transportation in Paris is AMAZING. It is super easy to find your way with the metro. The city is also super walkable and they even have bike sharing!
Metro: The fastest way to get around. Buy a pack of 10 tickets (carnet) for a discount. The Metro operates from 5:30 AM to 1:15 AM (2:15 AM on weekends).
Walking: Paris is a very walkable city. I love walking through Paris as it is honestly one of the best ways to explore the city!
Biking: Use the Vélib’ bike-sharing system. There are many stations around the city where you can rent and return bikes.
Taxis and Ride-sharing: Taxis are available but can be expensive. Ride-sharing apps like Uber are a convenient alternative but still – the traffic is pretty bad. Unless you are going to the airport I recommend using public transport.
When taking trains you can always check the timetables and get your tickets on Omio.com
5. Airport Transfers
I was a bit nervous the first time I had to get from CDG to the centre – even though it was my gazillionth time in the city and I had my husband with me. I normally always used either the Thalys or the Eurostar. But here are the best ways to get from the Airport to the centre in Paris.
Charles de Gaulle (CDG):
- RER B Train: The cheapest option. It takes about 35 minutes to central Paris.
- Roissybus: Direct bus service to Opéra, taking about 60 minutes.
- Taxi: A flat rate to central Paris (right bank) is €53, and to the left bank is €68.
Orly (ORY):
- Orlyval + RER B Train: Connects to central Paris via Antony station.
- Orlybus: Direct bus service to Denfert-Rochereau, taking about 30 minutes.
- Taxi: Flat rate to central Paris (right bank) is €37, and to the left bank is €32.
You can also go for private transfers via services on GetYourGuide. Sure they are more expensive but someone will be waiting for you at the airport with a plaque with your name on it which is so much easier after a long haul flight.
6. Important Landmarks
As you might well know, Paris is home to some of the most famous lanmarks in the world! Here are the landmarks that 100% need to be on your itinerary!
Eiffel Tower: No trip to Paris is complete without visiting the Eiffel Tower. Book tickets online in advance to skip the long lines. I would recommend taking a Seine River cruise in the evening so you can see the light show!
Louvre Museum: The world’s largest art museum and home to the Mona Lisa. Here you can also find countless other masterpieces that are really worth a visit. Plan to spend at least half a day here. Get skip the line tickets online because – pff, the lines can be long!
Notre-Dame Cathedral: Although under restoration, the cathedral is one of the most famous cathedrals in the world. You can still look at the cathedral from the outside and afterwards you can always head to Sainte Chapelle nearby!
Sacré-Cœur Basilica: The Sacre Coeur is located on the highest point in Paris. From here you have amazing panoramic views on the city and you can even visit the inside of the Basilica!
Arc de Triomphe: Another iconic monument. I would recommend climbing to the top for a stunning view down the Champs-Élysées. You will however need to buy a ticket to get in!
Lesser-Known Gems:
- Sainte-Chapelle: Known for its stunning stained glass windows.
- Musée de l’Orangerie: Famous for Monet’s Water Lilies.
- Canal Saint-Martin: Beautiful canal with amazing cafes and bistrots. I love this area.
7. Museums and Cultural Sites
If you love culture as much as I do – you know that there are lots of amazing museums to visit in Paris. Here is an overview of what to certainly put on your itinerary!
Museum Pass: Consider purchasing the Paris Museum Pass. This amazing pass offers access to over 50 museums and monuments and actually allows you to skip the lines! Sure it is on the expensive side but if you are doing at least 3 or 4 museums – it is worth it!
Top Museums:
- Louvre: As mentioned, a must-visit. Closed on Tuesdays.
- Musée d’Orsay: Housed in a former railway station, showcasing impressionist masterpieces.
- Centre Pompidou: Known for its modern and contemporary art collections.
Free Museum Days: Many museums offer free entry on the first Sunday of each month. Do be warned that the crowds are mad!
Free entry for under 26’s: If you are a citizen of the European Union, you can visit many museums for free if you are under 26 years old and carry your ID or passport with you.
8. Dining Etiquette
The French dining etiquette is radically different from the American one. That’s why it is rather important to gain a basic understanding on what’s expected.
Meal Times: Lunch is typically served from 12 PM to 2 PM, and dinner from 7 PM to 10 PM. Many restaurants close between lunch and dinner. If you want to book a luxury restaurant on a budget I would recommend going at lunch as they often offer good value lunch menus.
Course Order: French meals usually follow a sequence: entrée (starter), plat (main course), fromage (cheese), dessert (dessert).
Tipping: Service is by law included in the bill (service compris), but leaving a small tip for good service is a kind gesture. For a few drinks you should leave 1 to 2 euro. For a meal 2 to 3. Obviously if you are a big group, leave a bit more. In France we do not work with a percentage of the bill system.
Reservations: Especially for popular restaurants, making a reservation is recommended. You can often do this online or by phone. The Fork is the go-to reservation website in France. I have used it countless times both in Paris and Bordeaux.
9. Dishes to try when in Paris
I don’t think I need to explain to you that Paris is a foodie paradise. To help you on your way, here are some very typical dishes and combinations you might want to try:
Breakfast:
- Croissants and Pain au Chocolat: Enjoy with a café au lait.
- Baguette: Often served with butter and jam.
Lunch and Dinner:
- Escargot: Snails cooked in garlic butter. (SOOOO yummy! My favourites!)
- Coq au Vin: Chicken braised with wine, mushrooms, and bacon.
- Steak Frites: Steak with French fries.
- Duck Confit: Slow-cooked duck leg. (Absolutely amazing in winter)
Desserts:
- Crème Brûlée: A rich custard topped with caramelized sugar. (My favourite desert! A must try when you are in Paris!)
- Tarte Tatin: An upside-down caramelized apple tart.
Street Food:
- Crepes: Savory or sweet, available from street vendors.
- Falafel: Particularly in Le Marais district, known for its delicious falafel sandwiches.
- Roasted Chestnuts: Chestnuts that are roasted (duh!). Can be found in the Montmartre and Pigalle areas.
10. Cafe Culture
I love the cafés in Paris and I am sure you will too! They are perfect for people watching or for enjoying a good book and a glass of wine at the end of the day. You can also check out my article on the cutest cafes in Paris.
How to Enjoy:
- Ordering: Typically, you’ll be seated by a waiter. It’s polite to greet them with “Bonjour.”
- People-Watching: Sit at a sidewalk table and enjoy the view.
- Taking Your Time: In Paris, dining and drinking are an experience. Don’t rush your time at a cafe.
Famous Cafes:
- Café de Flore: One of the oldest and most prestigious cafes.
- Les Deux Magots: Known for its intellectual clientele, including Hemingway and Sartre.
11. Shopping in Paris
Just like Paris is a paradise for foodies, it is a haven for shoppers. Here is everything you need to know about shopping in Paris:
Famous Shopping Areas:
- Champs-Élysées: High-end stores and flagship brands.
- Rue Saint-Honoré: Luxury boutiques and designer stores.
- Le Marais: Trendy boutiques and vintage shops.
Department Stores:
- Galeries Lafayette: Stunning architecture and a rooftop view.
- Le Bon Marché: Paris’ oldest department store, known for its high-end products.
Markets:
- Marché aux Puces de Saint-Ouen: The largest flea market in Paris, great for antiques.
- Food Markets: Visit local markets like Marché d’Aligre for fresh produce and gourmet treats.
12. Dress Like a Local
One of the biggest tips I can give you as a first time visitor to Paris is to ditch the tourist gear and to dress like a local. People will be much more patient with you and you won’t be an obvious target for pickpockets or scammers.
What to Wear:
- Chic and Simple: Parisians prefer understated elegance. Think neutral colors and classic pieces.
- Comfortable Shoes: Paris involves a lot of walking, so I would recommend going for stylish but comfortable footwear.
- Avoid Tourist Clichés: Skip the beret (for the love of God!!) and the loud, logo-heavy attire.
13. Safety Tips
Paris is honestly super safe. There are however some scams you need to look out for. There are also lots of pickpockets around which is why I would always recommend you go for a theft-proof backpack!
Common Scams:
- Bracelet Scam: Avoid people who try to tie a bracelet around your wrist.
- Petition Scam: Be wary of people asking you to sign petitions.
- Pickpockets: Be vigilant, especially in crowded areas and on public transportation.
Staying Safe:
- Keep Valuables Secure: Use a money belt or a secure bag.
- Stay Alert: Be aware of your surroundings, especially in tourist hotspots.
- Emergency Numbers: Police (17), Medical (15), Fire (18).
14. Parisian Etiquette
Apart from dining etiquette, there is a bit of normal etiquette you should be aware of. Parisians love it when you make an effort to speak French. That is why I would recommend getting a French Phrase book to browse through during your flight. Here are some pointers to get you off to a good start:
Basic French Phrases:
- Bonjour/Bonsoir: Hello/Good evening.
- S’il vous plaît: Please.
- Merci: Thank you.
- Pardon: Excuse me.
Politeness:
- Greetings: Always greet shopkeepers and waitstaff with “Bonjour” or “Bonsoir.”
- Interactions: Patience is key. Avoid raising your voice or showing impatience.
15. Money Matters
Keep in mind that in Paris the currency is Euro. I know a lot of first-time travellers still take US Dollars with them – which is not very helpful. No places (except for scammy touristy spots) will ever accept US Dollar in Paris. You will need to exchange the US Dollar to Euro or use your card to get Euros from the ATM.
ATMs and Currency Exchange:
- ATMs: Widely available. Use ATMs at banks for safety.
- Currency Exchange: Avoid airport exchange counters because they are super expensive. Better rates are usually found in the city away from the tourist districts.
Credit Card Use:
- Chip-and-PIN: Most places accept cards with chips. Have your PIN ready.
- Notify Your Bank: Inform your bank of your travel plans to avoid your cards being blocked (happened to me before! Not fun!).
Cash:
- Small Purchases: Some places prefer cash for small transactions. I would always keep some Euros on hand.
16. Phone and Internet
I would really recommend geting either a local sim or an international plan from your carrier. It’s so handy to be able to use Google Maps to get around or to get information about what metro stations to use. International plans from your home carrier are probably going to be quite expensive.
SIM Cards:
- Local SIM: Buy a local SIM card from providers like Orange or SFR for better rates.
- International Plans: Check with your home carrier for international plans.
- E-sim: If your phone accepts e-sims, you can also get an Airalo sim. It’s easier than getting a local sim and cheaper than an international plan for your home carrier.
Free Wi-Fi:
- Hotspots: Many cafes, restaurants, and public spaces offer free Wi-Fi. One of my biggest travel tips is that McDonald’s and Starbucks offer free wifi so if you are in a pickle and need wifi fast – walk into a McDonald’s or a Starbucks!
17. Public Restrooms
If you are out and about for a whole day, chances are you might need the toilet at some point. France – and especially Paris, is quite good when it comes to public toilets!
Public Toilets:
- Sanisettes: Free, self-cleaning public toilets are available around the city.
- Cafes and Restaurants: Restrooms are available for customers. If I want to use the restroom in a café I just order a soft drink or something small to drink before rushing off to the toilets!
18. The weather in Paris
The weather in Paris is very European – one moment the sun can be out and the next it can be chucking it down. Here is what to pack to prepare yourself for the Parisian weather.
What to Pack:
- Spring: Light layers, a waterproof jacket, and an umbrella.
- Summer: Lightweight clothing, sunglasses, and a hat.
- Autumn: Layers, a warm jacket, and waterproof shoes.
- Winter: Warm clothing, a coat, scarf, gloves, and waterproof boots.
19. Tourist traps in Paris
There are sadly quite a few tourist traps in Paris here is a very quick rundown:
- Place du Tertre: overrun with tourists. Art not great and very expensive.
- Souvenir shops: souvenir shops near major attractions are often overpriced.
- Open bus tours: Paris is super walkable and the metro is amazing. These are overpriced and not needed.
- Greek Restaurants: There are lots of Greek Restaurants in the Quartier Latin. These are all overpriced and the food is not good!
- Love locks: They really damage the bridges and I would really recommend against them!
20. Exploring Beyond the Tourist Spots
Although there are lots of very famous landmarks in Paris, there are also quite a few ”off the beaten path” locations to explore in Paris.
Hidden Gems:
- Buttes-Chaumont Park: A beautiful, lesser-known park with stunning views.
- Promenade Plantée: An elevated park built on a former railway line, offering a unique perspective of the city.
Day Trips:
- Versailles: Famous for its opulent palace and gardens. Easily reachable by RER C train.
- Giverny: Visit Monet’s house and gardens. A short train ride from Paris.
- Fontainebleau: Known for its magnificent château and surrounding forest.
21. Enjoying the Nightlife
There’s quite a bit of nightlife in Paris – whether you want a club, a bar or a cabaret!
Popular Nightlife Areas:
- Bastille: Trendy bars and clubs.
- Pigalle: Known for its cabarets and nightlife, including the famous Moulin Rouge.
- Canal Saint-Martin: Hipster bars and laid-back venues.
Types of Venues:
- Bars: From cozy wine bars to chic cocktail lounges.
- Clubs: Dance the night away in famous clubs like Le Duplex or Rex Club.
- Jazz Clubs: Enjoy live jazz at iconic spots like Le Caveau de la Huchette.
- Cabarets: Experience a traditional Parisian cabaret at venues like Moulin Rouge or Crazy Horse.
22. Free things to do in Paris
Paris does not have to be expensive! There are also some free things to do in the city if you are on a budget.
Free Things to Do:
- Parks: Relax in beautiful parks like Jardin du Luxembourg or Parc Monceau.
- Walking Tours: Join free walking tours to explore the city’s history and architecture.
- Museums: Many offer free entry on the first Sunday of each month.
Budget-Friendly Tips:
- Picnics: Buy fresh bread, cheese, and wine for a picnic along the Seine or in a park.
- Window Shopping: Enjoy browsing in elegant passages like Galerie Vivienne.
23. Photography Tips
There are lots of iconic pictures to take in Paris. Here are some of my tips!
Best Spots for Photos:
- Eiffel Tower: From Trocadéro or Champ de Mars.
- Louvre Pyramid: Iconic shots of the glass pyramid and museum.
- Montmartre: Charming streets and the view from Sacré-Cœur.
- Seine River: Bridges and riverside views, especially at sunset.
Photography Tips:
- Early Morning: Avoid crowds by visiting popular spots early in the morning.
- Golden Hour: Capture the soft, warm light just after sunrise or before sunset.
- Street Photography: Candid shots of daily life in Paris can be very rewarding.
24. Special Events and Festivals in Paris
There are a few nice major events and special events in the city you might want to look out for when you are in Paris:
Major Annual Events:
- Bastille Day (July 14): Celebrations include a military parade, fireworks, and parties.
- Paris Fashion Week: Held twice a year, showcasing the latest trends in fashion.
- Nuit Blanche: An all-night arts festival with free access to museums and installations.
Seasonal Events:
- Christmas Markets: Enjoy festive markets like the one at Champs-Élysées.
- Summer Festivals: Free concerts and events, including Paris Plages (artificial beaches along the Seine).
25. Leaving the City
Tips for a smooth departure from Paris.
Best Times to Travel:
- Avoid Rush Hours: Travel during off-peak times to avoid congestion.
- Airport Transfers: Plan your transfer to the airport in advance, considering traffic and transit times.
Using Train Services:
- Gare du Nord: For trains to London, Brussels, and other northern destinations.
- Gare de Lyon: For trains to southern France and Italy.
- Booking Tickets: Book train tickets in advance for the best prices and availability. I would recommend using a service like Omio.
