paris travel tips for first timers

13 things you should know before traveling to Paris

Mar 31, 2024 • 7 min read

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

Fabienne is one of the author's of our  latest Paris guidebook . Here she shares what you need to know before visiting Paris for the first time.

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.

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 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 after all. 

5. Personal space is important

More important – 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.

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.

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.

Keep planning your trip to Paris:

Bring home the perfect souvenir with Paris in 5 Shops

Learn how to navigate the City of Lights with The best ways to get around Paris

Plan an affordable trip with Paris on a budget

Stay on the cutting edge with these 5 new (and unexpected) cultural attractions in Paris

This article was first published August 2021 and updated March 2024

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Home > Paris Travel Tips > Best Tips for Visiting Paris for the First Time (by a Local!)

Best Tips for Visiting Paris for the First Time (by a Local!)

Paris travel tips for your first time in paris.

One of the greatest cities in the world, Paris is a vibrant and cultural city, with famous sites at every turn and never enough time to see them all. Paris is also regarded as the world’s most romantic city and a heaven for foodies and fashion lovers. 

We still have to meet someone who is not willing to visit Paris soon or to come back and discover more!

Everyone visiting Paris for the first time wants to have a memorable trip, and there’s nothing like Paris tips from a local to get the best out of the French capital .

In this article, we are sharing our best Paris insider tips for your first time in Paris: must-see Paris travel tips, as well as all-time favorites and off-the-beaten-path things. Read this article as a complement to our Paris Travel Planner , and you are set for a unique trip to Paris!

Visiting Paris for First Timers – Top Insider Tips

1. look for the best time to visit paris for you.

The first of our tips for Paris is about the best time to visit Paris. ‘Paris is always a good idea ,’ and there is never a bad time to visit Paris. The city has great parks and beautiful avenues and streets, but it also has some of the world’s best museums and other interesting indoor options.

There are, however, a few things you might want to take into account when planning your first trip to Paris.

Generally speaking, the shoulder seasons – Spring and Fall – are good because it’s often less crowded and the temperature is pleasant.

If you want to beat the crowds and pay less for things like transportation and accommodation in Paris, you should consider visiting Paris in November , early December , and January .

If you are interested in shopping, consider visiting Paris in January or July, during the sales, when it is possible to find fantastic bargains.

To get the full picture, check out our in-depth articles about the best time to visit Paris and the seasons in Paris .

Check out our suggested itineraries for your first time in Paris:

• One day in Paris
• Two days in Paris
• Three days in Paris
• Four days in Paris
• Five days in Paris
• Six days in Paris
• 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.

While a basic consultation in France is affordable (around 25€), hospitalizations or emergency evacuations can easily run into hundreds or thousands of US dollars, which you’ll be expected to pay before you leave. Having a travel insurance policy can give you peace of mind for your first time in Paris and is something most travel experts recommend.

SafetyWing is our preferred choice, starting from a minimum of 5 days. HeyMondo also offers excellent coverage and you can get 5% discount if you use this link .

3. Get the Most of Your Time, Book in Advance, and Skip the Lines!

Unless you visit Paris off-season, you’ll experience frustrating long lines at all Paris’ main tourist attractions.

Waiting in line will not only make you waste precious time; the chances are that you’ll be exhausted even before starting your visit! That’s why the second of our tips for traveling to Paris for the first time is about booking your tickets for the main attractions in advance.

Below we list the Paris main attractions you will need advance tickets for and have added links to our favorite trusty providers for your convenience.

• The Eiffel Tower
• The Louvre Museum
• Versailles Palace
• Orsay Museum
• The Catacombs of Paris

We also have detailed articles on how to skip the line in Versailles and how to skip the line in the Louvre , the two attractions that see the longest lines and crowds.

Finally, have a look at our Skip the Line in Paris article , with the best days and time slots to avoid the biggest crowds in the main tourist attractions.

4. At the Airport, Only Use Regular Taxis (or Verified Private Airport Transfers)

Taking a ride with a regular, official taxi is what we would consider a matter of common sense, but you’d be surprised at how many tourists still get lured!

At the Paris airports, you’re likely to be approached by someone offering a private taxi service. It might be tempting because it seems easy (no need to search for the taxi stand) and faster (not waiting in line). NEVER accept this kind of “offers.”

If you’re lucky, you’ll end up spending much more (those nonofficial cars don’t have a meter), and you can’t exclude that such a ride could lead to more unpleasant surprises or dangerous situations.

If you don’t want to take public transport and you prefer to know from the beginning how much your ride will cost, we recommend booking a private airport transfer from the Parisian Airports to the city. 

We like  Welcome’s transfer services , with good cars and the best English-speaking drivers in Paris, but other booking platforms like Get Your Guide offer similar services.

5. Save Money on Public Transport 

France has good high-speed trains (named TGVs), with very regular connections between Paris, Lyon, Marseille, Strasbourg, and more. It is very easy to plan weekend trips from Paris by train or longer trips to the rest of France as it takes a little as three hours from Paris to Marseille or from Paris to Strasbourg.

High-speed trains can be costly, though, especially if you buy your train tickets at the last minute. But the good news is that there are ways to find cheaper options if you plan your trip months in advance.

Find here more information and book your train tickets  

For getting around Paris, the Parisian Metro is the best option. The metro in Paris takes you everywhere in the city, with opening times starting from 5.30 am to 2.15 am on weekends.

Apart from the single metro tickets, valid also for bus and tram rides, the Parisian Metro has different passes well worth the investment, especially if you take the metro more than 3 times a day. Check out our quick guide to the metro of Paris for all the Paris metro tickets and passes and our best tips.

6. Buy a Prepaid SIM Card for your Trip to Paris

Most of the hotels and hostels in Paris offer free Wi-Fi for their guests. You can also get a  prepaid SIM card  for your trip, which will allow you to communicate with other numbers in France and keep you connected to the internet all the time.  Here are the best prepaid SIM cards for France  (and how to get them). Bonus points if you can buy one online before starting your trip!

7. Aside from the Landmarks, Discover Life in Paris

When visiting some of the most famous landmarks in Paris , you’re likely to see more tourists than locals.

But there’s so much to a town or city like Paris than its landmarks and main streets. There are many hidden gems in Paris , and letting yourself get lost where locals live and hang is the surest way to feel like a local.

To get a little more of your first time visiting Paris, you must venture where the locals are. So choose one of the lesser-known districts of Paris , put away your map, and just wander.

There are several other ways to get a taste of daily life in Paris.

• Take public transport
• Go to local markets
• Have a stroll near a university
• Drop-in a supermarket
• Go where people work
• Take a walk in residential areas

For long stays, you can also book a furnished apartment in Paris instead of a hotel, like one of these apartments in Paris with Eiffel Tower view .

8. Discover Popular Food in Paris

We all like sushi and pizza, but hey, you are visiting Paris in France, the cradle of one of the best cuisines in the world!

Few countries in the world offer such a variety of dishes as France. From north to south, region after region, you’ll discover different specialties based on local, typical ingredients and products. The good news is that in the French capital you can savor the best of all the French regions .

Ask locals for their favorite restaurants , market stalls, and Paris food , and then be sure to check them out. Join a cooking course and learn how to prepare your favorite French dish. Enjoy French traditional food in any of the Parisian bistros . Stop for a coffee and some people-watching in a cute Parisian café. And be sure don’t miss Paris’ best cakes !

TIP: This Paris Gourmet Tour is an excellent introduction to local food in Paris .

9. Safety Paris Tips

Despite what you might have heard in the media, France is a safe and welcoming country, and we never felt unsafe in Paris. Still, by the main tourist attractions, watch out your belongings.

France is a safe and welcoming country. However, like everywhere in the world, in big cities and by the most sought-after attractions you might incur in petty crime and foul play.

In public transport, always keep your handbag or backpack in front of you to avoid possible pickpockets. Never keep your camera hanging around your neck or your wallet in your trousers back pocket. Instead, store them in your bag, possibly in a zipped pocket not within easy reach.

Be cautious when approached at train stations or by famous landmarks by people offering to help. While most of them will be genuinely generous, some might be trying to rob or scam you.

On long-distance trains, keep your bag always on the racks above your seat. Don’t trust the racks between the seats and the train doors (lessons learned here).

Don’t leave your belongings unattended in public spaces, and better keep your bag on your lap or between your feet. We recommend using an anti-theft travel bag or a theft-proof backpack for safe travel.

In addition to these Paris tips for first-timers, check out our dedicated post about safety in Paris .

10. Avoid the Tourist Traps When Visiting Paris

It is no secret that the most visited places are also potential tourist traps, and Paris makes no exception. Avoiding the tourist traps in Paris is often a matter of common sense. However, there are a few rules that are likely to keep you off the tourist traps.

– Avoid changing money in airports, at La Défense, and near touristy sites. Same for money withdrawal with a foreigner card

– Skip cafés and restaurants close to the main landmarks and all the places attracting hordes of visitors. Prices can be 2 or 3 times the price than in other neighborhoods of Paris.

– Beware of restaurants displaying photos of the dishes and menus in several languages. They are obviously for foreigners.

– Beware of additional charges in many cafés when sitting at a table. Most of the times, Parisian cafés have a price for having something standing at the counter or sitting at a table

– Don’t rely too much on websites like Tripadvisor, and learn how to read behind the lines. Search for advice and reviews from locals.

11. Take a Day Trip from Paris to Explore its Surroundings

With so many interesting sites around Paris, we won’t blame you if you want to block one day or two of your Paris Itinerary to get out of town and explore what the Parisian region has to offer.

From Château de Versailles to other fairy tale castles near Paris ; from Provins medieval town to picturesque towns like Giverny , there are great day trips from Paris  or fantastic weekend getaways by train or guided tour.

12. Just Say NO

The last of these tips about Paris for first-timers is to learn to say “NO.” It is ok to have a plan full of interesting things to see & do for your first trip to Paris, but should you rush through it just for the sake of moving on to the next thing on your list?

This is definitely one of the biggest travel regrets among international travelers. They come to Paris, they see many extraordinary things, but in the end, the general feeling is that if they had just chosen half the things, they would have discovered much more about the city, especially about local life.

So for your Paris first time, much better to allow yourself to go with the flow and see where it takes you. Most of our greatest travel memories have come from us saying “YES” to not doing what we’d planned.

So there you have it, the best Paris tips for visiting Paris for the first time, from where to go, what to do, and what to avoid. All these Paris travel tips will ensure a smooth first time in Paris.

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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.

The Ultimate Guide to Visiting Paris for the First Time

By: Author Tiana Thompson

Posted on Last updated: July 14, 2023

Categories Paris , Paris Guides , Travel Guides

Home » The Ultimate Guide to Visiting Paris for the First Time

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Bonjour, mon ami!

Welcome to your ultimate guide for navigating the City of Love like a seasoned Parisian.

As a four-year resident of this chic metropolis, I’m here to hold your hand and guide you through all the ins and outs of your Parisian escapade.

If you’re preparing for your first rendezvous with Paris, brace yourself for a whirlwind romance with one of the most breathtaking cities on the planet.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Tiana • Where Tiana Travels (@tianabaaaby)

Everyone should have a Parisian fling at least once, and if it’s your first time, don’t sweat it!

In this très magnifique article, I’ll be your friendly neighborhood Paris expert, sharing everything from what to expect on your first visit to the must-see sights, the coziest places to rest your weary head, and how to zip around this enchanting city.

So kick back with a glass of vin rouge, slip into your favorite beret, and let’s dive into the crème de la crème of Parisian travel tips!

This 10-page Paris travel guide includes all the best foods to eat in Paris, where to eat, the top things to do and see in Paris, including day trips, scenic tours, museums, attractions, and more. Find out the best (and worst) places to stay in Paris, including my top picks for hotels in each area. Links in this PDF are clickable so you can book your tours and hotels directly!

In this post, you'll find...

Cultural Quirks and Etiquette: Paris Edition

First-time visitors to Paris might find some cultural customs a little… well, foreign. Fear not!

There are, of course, a few things you should NOT do while in Paris – but in general, you’ll be good to go if you just follow these basic rules of French etiquette.

Here’s a crash course in Parisian etiquette:

Greetings : Handshakes are a solid first-time intro, but in social settings, Parisians love to pucker up for a cheek-to-cheek air kiss. A bit bewildering at first, but you’ll be smooching like a local in no time.

Don’t worry though, this is mostly in more intimate settings like at a house party, or meeting a mutual friend for the first time. Store owners and restaurant servers will never greet you this way!

Dress to impress : Parisians are fashion royalty, so ditch the gym gear and bling for some classy, casual threads in subdued hues. Leave the yoga pants at home, gal.

Language : Plenty of Parisians speak English, but they’ll adore you for trying your hand at some français. A heartfelt “ Bonjour ” or “ Merci ” goes a long way.

Table Manners : At restaurants, wait until everyone’s served before digging in, and keep your hands on the table during meals.

When in Rome, right?

Remember, politeness and respect are the keys to the Parisian heart. Embrace the cultural quirks, and you’ll blend in like a local Parisian during your time here.

Getting Around Paris

First-time visitors, fear not! Navigating the City of Love might seem as daunting as deciphering a French menu, but it’s easier than pronouncing “croissant” with a perfect French accent.

Here’s your cheat sheet for getting around Paris like a seasoned flâneur.

Let’s start with the pièce de résistance: exploring Paris on foot.

Sure, the public transport is top-notch, but walking lets you truly savor the city’s picturesque streets, quaint cafés, iconic landmarks, and jaw-dropping architecture.

Bonus : Strolling is the perfect way to burn off all those irresistible French pastries you’ll be scarfing down.

Public Transportation

The Parisian public transport system is a veritable smorgasbord of buses, trams, and the ever-popular metro. For zipping around the city like a pro, the metro is your best buddy.

Snap up a single ticket for €2.10 or a pack of 10 (a “carnet”) for €16.90 – perfect for those planning to ride the metro waves often.

Feeling fancy? Grab a Paris Visite pass for unlimited access to the metro, buses, trams, and RER trains within Paris and its ‘burbs. The pass is up for grabs for 1, 2, 3, or 5 consecutive days, starting at €13.20.

P.S. Check out my complete guide on How to Navigate the Paris Metro Like A Pro

Metro Stations

The metro is a labyrinth of 16 lines and over 300 stations, each with its own unique name.

To avoid getting lost in the maze, get cozy with the metro map and the station names near your hotel and must-visit spots.

Heads up : some metro stations have multiple entrances and exits, so jot down the exit number or letter as you enter to avoid wandering in circles when you leave.

Metro Lines

Each metro line boasts its own color and number – a visual feast to help you navigate.

For instance, Line 1 is yellow, Line 2 is blue, and Line 6 is green. Once you’re in the station, keep an eye out for signs pointing you to the right line, direction, and train destination.

Pro tip: some metro lines get packed like sardines during rush hour (8:00 am to 10:00 am and 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm). Travel off-peak to avoid being squished.

In short, the metro is your ticket to a smooth Parisian adventure. With a dash of planning and a sprinkling of metro know-how, you’ll be gliding through the city like a true Parisian.

Must-See Paris Attractions (and what to nix)

Eiffel tower.

No Parisian escapade is complete without a rendezvous with the iconic Eiffel Tower! Elevate your experience by climbing the stairs or riding the elevator to the summit for a panoramic city view.

Long lines cramping your style? Book tickets ahead , or swap the climb for a scenic Seine River cruise.

Louvre Museum

The Louvre is home to the crème de la crème of art, including the enigmatic Mona Lisa. With over 35,000 masterpieces on display, navigating this art mecca can be daunting!

Short on time? Prioritize highlights like the Winged Victory of Samothrace and Venus de Milo , and consider an evening visit for thinner crowds.

I recommend hopping on a guided tour of the Louvre Museum so you can be sure to see all the museum’s main highlights in one go.

You can also opt to explore the museum on your own, but be sure to book skip-the-line tickets in advance to avoid long lines!

Arc de Triomphe

A symbol of French patriotism, the Arc de Triomphe is a must-see.

Enjoy stunning views of the Champs-Élysées and beyond from the top – just keep in mind that you’ll have to climb up over 400 steps to get to the top!

You can also take a photo of the Arc de Triomphe from the street level below.

Just beware of the chaotic traffic – especially during rush hour!

P.S. Check out my full guide on How to Book Tickets to the Arc de Triomphe & Best Tips for Visiting

Notre Dame Cathedral

This Gothic masterpiece is famous for its stunning stained glass windows, but due to the tragic 2019 fire, it’s currently closed to visitors. Stay tuned for reopening updates!

Musée d’Orsay

The Musée d’Orsay is home to an impressive collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist art, including works by Monet , Van Gogh , and Renoir .

Don’t miss the museum’s famous clock, which offers a stunning view of Paris.

However, the museum can get crowded, so consider visiting during the evening or on a weekday.

Palais Garnier

The Palais Garnier is a jaw-dropping masterpiece of Beaux-Arts architecture, and also the proud abode of the Paris Opera.

Opera aficionado or not, a guided tour through this architectural wonderland is an absolute must.

Fair warning, though – the tours can be as pricey as a gourmet French meal, so it’s wise to book in advance .

Sainte Chapelle

Paris’s hidden treasure, Sainte Chapelle , is renowned for its mesmerizing stained glass windows that envelop the entire upper level of the chapel.

Nestled within the Palais de Justice, navigating to this gem can be trickier than finding a decently priced croissant in Paris, so keep your eyes peeled for signs.

Père Lachaise Cemetery

The Père Lachaise Cemetery is the eternal home of legendary figures like Oscar Wilde and Jim Morrison.

The cemetery’s vastness can be as overwhelming as a fully loaded French cheeseboard, so consider joining a guided tour to unravel its history and hear tales of its famous residents.

Short on time? Skip these Paris attractions

While Paris bursts with must-see attractions, some are as overrated as a stale baguette.

If you’re pressed for time, feel free to skip the bustling Latin Quarter.

Sure, it’s known for its vibrant atmosphere and charming streets, but it can also be crammed with tourists.

Instead, venture off the beaten path and explore lesser-known neighborhoods like the 20th arrondissement or the enchanting Canal Saint-Martin.

In the end, remember to savor Paris at your own pace, like a leisurely sip of fine French wine. The city is brimming with surprises, so embrace new experiences and let yourself be captivated by the magic of Paris.

Best Areas to Stay in Paris for a First Time Visit

Paris is a city that will enchant you from the moment you arrive. For first-time visitors, choosing the right neighborhood for your accommodation is crucial.

Here are some of the finest areas to stay in Paris during your inaugural visit.

Le Marais is a fashionable district adored by locals and tourists alike, renowned for its historic buildings, stylish boutiques, and art galleries. This neighborhood also boasts some of the finest restaurants in Paris.

Choose Le Marais if you want to immerse yourself in the heart of the city and savor the Parisian lifestyle.

Where to stay in Le Marais

• Budget: Hotel du Vieux Marais
• Mid-Range: Hotel Le Compostelle
• Luxury: Pavillon de la Reine

Saint Germain des Pres

Saint Germain des Pres is a sophisticated area known for its upscale fashion boutiques, art galleries, and cafés. This district is also home to some of the city’s most impressive museums.

Stay here if you want to be close to top attractions and experience Parisian culture.

Where to stay in Saint Germain des Pres

• Budget: Hotel de Fleurie
• Mid-Range: Hotel des Deux Continents
• Luxury: Hotel Lutetia

P.S . Hotel Lutetia is home to Bar Joséphine, one of the coolest hotel bars in Paris ! Stop by for a drink even if you aren’t staying in the hotel.

7th Arrondissement

The 7th Arrondissement is a well-regarded neighborhood famous for its elegant architecture and museums. The district also features some of the finest restaurants in Paris.

If you want to be near the Eiffel Tower and other popular attractions, this is the place to be.

Where to stay in the 7th arrondissement

• Budget: Hotel de la Paix Tour Eiffel
• Mid-Range: Hotel de la Bourdonnais
• Luxury: Hotel Plaza Athenee

8th Arrondissement

The 8th Arrondissement is a high-end district known for luxury shopping and exquisite dining. The neighborhood is also home to some of the city’s most esteemed museums.

Stay here if you’re eager to experience Paris’ glamorous side.

Where to stay in the 8th arrondissement

• Budget: Hotel Elysees Bassano
• Mid-Range: Hotel La Canopée
• Luxury: Four Seasons Hotel George V

Montmartre is a bohemian neighborhood that is known for its artistic heritage. The neighborhood is also home to the iconic Sacre-Coeur Basilica.

Montmartre is the perfect place to stay if you want to experience the Parisian nightlife and enjoy the artsy side of the city.

Where to stay in Montmartre

• Budget: Hotel Regyn’s Montmartre
• Mid-Range: Terrass” Hotel Montmartre
• Luxury: Maison Souquet

No matter where you choose to stay, Paris is a city that will capture your heart. With its stunning architecture, world-class museums, and delicious cuisine, it is a city that will leave you wanting more.

Food and Drinks to Try on A Paris Trip

French cuisine.

Paris is famous for its cuisine and there’s no better place to indulge in French food than in the capital.

From croissants and baguettes to escargots and coq au vin, there’s something for every taste bud. You can find great food in every corner of the city, from small bistros to Michelin-starred restaurants.

If you’re feeling adventurous, try some famous French foods like escargots (snails) or foie gras (duck liver). For something more classic, order steak frites (steak and fries) or a croque-monsieur (toasted ham and cheese sandwich).

And don’t forget to save room for dessert!

Paris is known for its pastries, such as macarons , éclairs , and tarte tatin .

If you want to learn more about French cuisine, consider taking a food tour . There are many options available, such as the Le Marais Gourmet Food Tour , where you can taste your way through one of Paris’ most iconic neighborhoods.

Related read: My Top 7 Picks for the Best Brunch in Paris

France is also famous for its wine, and Paris is no exception. Whether you prefer red, white, or rosé, you’ll find plenty of options to choose from.

French wine is often classified by region, so be sure to try wines from different areas, such as Bordeaux, Burgundy, and Champagne.

If you’re not sure where to start, head to a wine bar or restaurant and ask for a recommendation!

Many places offer wine flights, where you can try several different wines in one sitting. And if you’re feeling brave, try ordering a carafe of house wine instead of a bottle. It’s a more affordable option and often just as good.

It’s important to note that in France, wine is often served with meals and is considered a cultural staple.

So don’t be surprised if you see people drinking wine at lunch or dinner, even on a weekday!

And if you want to bring a bottle of wine home with you, head to a wine shop like La Cave des Papilles or Le Verre Volé .

As an expat who has lived in Paris for four years, I can tell you that the city’s food and drink scene is one of the best in the world.

Be sure to indulge in everything Paris has to offer, from croissants and coffee in the morning to wine and cheese at night.

Calories don’t count in Paris!

Entertainment and Nightlife

Paris is known for its vibrant entertainment and nightlife scene, and as a seasoned expat who has lived in the city for four years, I know all the best spots to hit up. Whether you’re looking for a romantic evening or a fun night out with friends, Paris has something for everyone.

Moulin Rouge

If you’re looking for a classic Parisian experience, a night at the Moulin Rouge is a must-do.

This iconic cabaret show has been entertaining audiences since 1889, and it’s still going strong today. The show features dazzling costumes, talented performers, and plenty of French flair.

Book your tickets in advance to avoid disappointment, and be sure to dress up for the occasion!

Seine River Cruise

For a more relaxed evening, consider taking a cruise along the Seine River .

This is a great way to see some of Paris’s most famous landmarks, like the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame Cathedral , while enjoying a glass of wine and some good company.

Many cruises include commentary or even a full dinner and musical entertainment.

I recommend this 3-Course Dinner Seine Sightseeing cruise. My best friend and I took this cruise to celebrate her last day in Paris and we had a great time, and it was a great value for our money.

Opéra Garnier

If you’re a fan of the arts, a visit to the Opéra Garnier is a must.

This stunning opera house is one of the most iconic buildings in Paris, and it’s home to some of the world’s most talented performers. Check the schedule in advance to see what’s on, and be sure to dress up for the occasion.

You’ll feel like royalty as you take in a performance in this beautiful venue.

Paris Museums

For a late afternoon activity, consider visiting one of Paris’s many museums or art galleries.

The Louvre is an obvious choice, but there are plenty of other options to explore.

The Musée d’Orsay is home to a stunning collection of impressionist art, while the Centre Pompidou is a must-visit for fans of modern and contemporary art.

Paris is a shopper’s paradise. From high-end fashion boutiques to flea markets, the city has something for everyone. One of the must-visit places for shopping in Paris is the Galeries Lafayette .

This iconic department store is not just a shopping destination, but also a cultural landmark.

The store is housed in a magnificent building with a stunning glass dome that offers a panoramic view of Paris. Inside, you’ll find everything from designer fashion to gourmet food.

If you’re looking for luxury brands, head to the Avenue des Champs-Élysées.

This famous avenue is lined with flagship stores of international brands like Louis Vuitton, Chanel, and Dior.

But if you’re on a budget, don’t worry. Paris has plenty of affordable shopping options too. The Marais district is a great place to find unique boutiques and vintage shops.

Rue de Rivoli is another popular shopping street that offers a mix of high-street and mid-range brands.

One of the unique shopping experiences in Paris is visiting the flea markets.

Les Puces de Saint-Ouen is the largest flea market in the city and offers a treasure trove of vintage finds. From antique furniture to vintage clothes, you’ll find everything here.

Be prepared to haggle! Bargaining is a part of the shopping experience in the Paris flea markets.

When it comes to shopping in Paris, it’s not just about buying things. It’s also about the experience.

Take your time to explore the city’s shopping districts, soak in the atmosphere, and indulge in some people watching.

And don’t forget to take a break and enjoy a coffee or a glass of wine at one of the many cafes and bars that dot the city’s shopping streets.

Day Trips from Paris

Paris is a city that has so much to offer, but sometimes you need to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and explore the surrounding areas. Luckily, there are plenty of day trips from Paris that are just a short train ride away.

Whether you want to take a day trip from Paris to another country or visit France’s champagne region for a day , you’ve got plenty of options.

Here are a few other options for day trips from Paris:

Palace of Versailles

The Palace of Versailles is a must-see for anyone visiting Paris. This stunning palace was once the home of Louis XIV and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

You can easily spend a whole day exploring the palace and its beautiful gardens. One of the highlights is the Hall of Mirrors, which is absolutely breathtaking.

To get to Versailles, you can take the RER train from Paris, which takes about 45 minutes.

P.S. Check out my complete guide on How to Visit Versailles on A Day Trip for best tips, tours, and how to get there!

Disneyland Paris

If you’re traveling with kids (or just love Disney), then a day trip to Disneyland Paris is a must!

This magical theme park is located just outside of Paris and is easily accessible by train. You can meet your favorite Disney characters, go on thrilling rides, and watch amazing shows.

It’s a great way to escape reality for a day and feel like a kid again.

Related read: How to see London in a day (Paris to London Day Trip Itinerary)

If you’re an art lover, then a day trip to the town of Auvers-sur-Oise is a must. This is where Vincent van Gogh spent the last few months of his life and created some of his most famous works of art.

You can visit the room where he died, see the church that he painted, and walk in his footsteps.

It’s a fascinating glimpse into the life of one of the world’s most famous artists.

Related read: Visiting Monet’s Garden in Giverny on a day trip from Paris

These are just a few of the many day trips from Paris that you can take. Whether you’re interested in history, art, or just want to have some fun, there’s something for everyone.

Tips for First-Time Visitors

Best time to visit.

Wondering when to pencil in your Parisian adventure? It all depends on your personal flavor.

Paris is a beautiful city all year round, but the best time to visit is from April to June or September to November. During these months, the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller than during the peak summer season.

Spring and fall are popular choices for mild weather and fewer tourists, but if soaking up the sun and outdoor festivities is more your jam, summer is your go-to.

Just be ready for larger crowds and heftier price tags in summer!

If you want to experience the festive atmosphere of Paris, visiting during the Christmas season is a good idea.

Winter may be a bit nippy, but it’s also the least crowded, and the city transforms into a fairytale winter wonderland during the holidays.

Credit Card

Make sure to bring a credit card that doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees. This will save you money when you’re shopping or dining out in Paris.

It’s also a good idea to notify your bank that you’re traveling to Paris so they don’t flag your card for fraud.

If you’re planning a quick visit to Paris, getting a Paris Pass is a good idea. It will give you access to many of the city’s top attractions and museums, as well as free travel on public transportation.

However, if you’re staying for a longer period of time, it may be more cost-effective to buy individual tickets or a museum pass.

Safety Tips for Visiting Paris

Paris is generally a safe city, but it’s always a good idea to take precautions. Keep your valuables close to you and be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas like the metro.

If you’re traveling alone at night, it’s a good idea to take a taxi or use a ride-sharing app like Bolt or Uber.

Book tickets in advance and plan wisely

In my personal experience, I’ve found that it’s always a good idea to buy skip-the-line tickets for popular attractions like the Eiffel Tower or the Louvre. This will save you time and allow you to see more during your visit.

Also, if you’re short on time, I recommend focusing on the top attractions during your first day in Paris.

This will give you a good sense of the city and allow you to prioritize what you want to see during the rest of your trip.

Final thoughts

Congratulations, you have just experienced one of the best places in the world!

You have explored the famous landmarks, the narrow streets, and the underground tunnels. You have seen the view of the Eiffel Tower from the Left Bank and the Right Bank. You have visited the Orsay Museum and other art museums.

Overall, visiting Paris for the first time can be overwhelming, but with these top tips, you’ll be able to navigate the city like a pro. Paris is truly the City of Lights and it is easy to see why it is one of the most visited tourist attractions in the world!

Thanks for reading!

Hi, I’m Tiana – founder of and author here at Where Tiana Travels. I’m a 20-something with a love for all things travel, photography, and food. I have been living abroad for the past 5 years and solo traveling the globe in my free time. I created this blog to share my travel stories and inspire other women to go out and see the world. Read more about me here!

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Traveling to Paris for the First Time (2024): Tips & Tricks

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: February 19, 2024

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!).

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)

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

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

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).

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!

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

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!

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

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 .

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 .

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.

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.

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!

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!

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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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.

23 Paris Travel Tips For First Timers

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There are many things to know before visiting Paris for the first time. During my first trip to Paris back in 2012, I can honestly say that I wish I knew then what I do now. But after time spent living in France and traveling to Paris many times, I have some great Paris travel tips to help with your first trip!

You don’t want to show up to Paris and attempt to see it all and overdo it, causing you to not really enjoy any of it. Or you don’t want to wear the wrong shoes and have your feet hate you by the end of the day. 

That’s why I’ve come up with these 23 Paris travel tips for first timers that are super helpful. 

Without further ado, let’s talk about the top tips for visiting Paris! 

1. Always Say Bonjour/Bonsoir

Picture this: you’re a salesperson or server and someone just comes right up to you demanding something without so much as a simple “Hello.” Pretty rude, right? I mean, just being acknowledged as a fellow human is always nice. 

I cannot stress how important this is, and a big reason why people perceive Parisians as rude. If you come up to someone and immediately ask questions without saying, “Bonjour” or “Bonsoir” don’t expect much help. 

Not saying some Parisians aren’t rude people, but a simple “Bonjour/Bonsoir” goes a long way. 

Typically, you’d say “Bonjour” before 5 pm and “Bonsoir” after 5 pm. 

As a bonus, as you leave, a simple “Bonne Journee” (before 5 pm) or “Bonne Soiree” (after 5 pm) is a nice way to tell someone to have a good day or evening. 

2. Knowing a Few French Words/Phrases is Helpful Paris Travel Advice

I’m not saying you need to be fluent by any means (I’m still learning too!), but knowing something is always better than nothing. 

So for Paris tips for first timers, here are some words/phrases I’ve found helpful to know:

• Bonjour/Bonsoir (Hello)
• Bonne journee/Bonne soiree (Have a good day/evening)
• Au revoir (Goodbye)
• Merci (Thank you)
• De Rien (You’re welcome)
• Oui/Ouais (Yes/Yeah)
• Ou sont les toilettes? (Where are the toilets?)
• Parlez-vous anglais? (Do you speak English?)
• Pardon (Sorry or Excuse me)
• Excuse-moi (Excuse me)
• Je suis desole(e) (I’m sorry)
• Je vais prendre… (I will have…) Great for restaurants when ordering!
• Je voudrais… (I would like…) 
• Je ne comprends pas (I don’t understand)
• L’addition s’il vous plait (The bill please)

You get the idea. These are super helpful phrases and words to know during your first trip to Paris. 

3. Parisians Aren’t Always Mean

I mean yes, there are jerks everywhere, especially in every big city around the world. It’s not like New Yorkers are teddy bears themselves. 

But many people are nice. It’s just that in France, many people keep to themselves. They aren’t about to strike up a conversation with a stranger on the metro quite like someone might in the US (especially in the south where I’m from). 

They also don’t like to make a ton of small talk and can be very honest. So don’t be offended if Parisians aren’t super friendly to you. They aren’t trying to be mean usually, it’s just normal there. 

4. Paris May Be For Lovers, But It Has Something For Everyone

Seriously, while Paris may feel like a smaller city, it still is a large city that offers something for everyone. Art history nerds, honeymooners, families, foodies, friend trips… you name it, Paris has something for you. 

I’ve been to Paris as a solo traveler, with friends, and with my husband, and have found amazing things to do every time. So if you’re considering a visit to Paris, which I assume you are if you’re reading a blog post about Paris, France travel tips, just know there are a plethora of activities to enjoy here! 

5. Wear Comfortable Clothing and Shoes

I have a whole article about what to wear in Paris on my other blog, World Wide Honeymoon, but when it comes to walking around Paris, definitely pack sensible shoes.

Do NOT bring stilettos and plan to walk around all day in those. The pavements aren’t always even, and the city is very walkable, meaning you’ll likely want something more practical. 

White tennis shoes are always super popular, especially these Stan Smiths . They are comfortable for walking around all day and Parisians themselves don’t wear high heels that often. If they do, it is again, practical for walking for the most part. 

As far as clothing, yes, shorts aren’t as big of a thing, but many Parisians just wear jeans, skirts, or casual dresses. Nothing too fancy here, so no need to go nuts. Remember that Parisians, like everyone else, have their own unique style based on personal preferences, so you don’t need to copy just one style. 

Essentially, skip the athleisure, sweatpants, and high heels and you’ll be just fine. 

6. Paris Tips For Travelers: Eat Like a Local

Want to find great local spots or not eat at touristy places? Back away from the tourist sights. 

Not to say some touristy cafes aren’t delicious… I mean I recommend and will always accept a tasty hot chocolate from Les Deux Magots, but many restaurants near tourist attractions in Paris aren’t worth it. 

Instead, walk several blocks away from tourist spots to find hidden gems. If it looks busy and full of locals, then you’ve hit a good spot. 

And if you want to make reservations ahead of time for a place, I love finding great restaurants in the Michelin Guide. No, I’m not saying book a 3-star Michelin restaurant. The guide has many recommendations to fit your budget that don’t have any stars but are just as good. 

Also, Parisians, and French people in general, tend to eat a bit later. Many restaurants don’t even open until 7-7:30 pm. If you’re hungry at 5 pm, pop into a patisserie or boulangerie for a pasty or some bread, respectively. 

Even though restaurants open between 7-7:30 pm, I’ve noticed that Parisians don’t always show up until closer to 8-8:30 pm. 

Lastly, how often are you in Paris?! You’ve got to try the flavors of France! Don’t be scared to try escargot, boeuf bourguignon, or even that stinky cheese. You may as well experience it while you’re here. 

7. Tipping & Restaurant Service

Tipping culture in France is not the same as in the US. Servers are paid a living wage, and service is part of your bill. So no need to tip a bunch on top of it. 

In fact, when you get the receipt typically, there isn’t space to add a tip. That isn’t to say to never tip, though! If you had really great service, leaving a smaller tip is totally fine. This could include rounding up for smaller meals and purchases or giving up to 10% on a nicer meal. 

Another of the Paris holiday tips: servers don’t bother you. In the US, you’ll get bombarded seemingly every 5 seconds with your server asking how everything is going. 

But in Paris, and in France in general, they leave you alone. You’ll need to get their attention if you want to order or pay. A simple wave usually works just fine. 

8. Tips For Traveling to Paris For the First Time: Don’t Rush It!

Like any amazing vacation, don’t rush it! Take it from me. My very first trip to Paris in 2012 was a whirlwind weekend of museums and tourist attractions. I had 2 days and wanted to see it all. What I didn’t expect was that after hours and hours spent at art museums and trying to see everything, it was blending together and became exhausting. 

I left Paris with lukewarm feelings about it, totally not getting the hype. That is until I showed up again that summer determined to do few tourist things and instead do simple, fun Parisian things. I took some long walks, picnicked in parks, and just took my time. 

It was then that I got it. Paris is beautiful. Yes, some parts aren’t so beautiful like any big city. But overall, the architecture is gorgeous, the parks are vast and colorful, and the food is so rich and delicious. 

Paris is a dish meant to be savored. Take your time. That goes for restaurants too. Don’t expect a quick 1-hour meal and be out the door. Instead, order a bottle of wine to split. Have that appetizer, dinner, and dessert. Spend 3 hours at a cozy restaurant chatting away with loved ones or reading a good book at a cafe. They won’t rush you. 

Enjoy museums and attractions, but by no means try to see it all in one trip. There is a lot to see, so pick your must-dos and enjoy. 

9. Keep It Down in Public

Maybe it is because I’m American, but in public it feels like French people are whispering to each other. I was at dinner one time while studying abroad with other Americans and I quickly realized we were the loudest in the restaurant. Whoops. You live and learn. 

While restaurants and everything can get quite noisy back in the US, it is much quieter in France. So keep it down a bit while in public, especially in restaurants, the metro, etc. It keeps it nice and peaceful for everyone around you and prevents dirty looks from other patrons. 

10. Super Important of the Paris Travel Tips: How to Avoid Pick Pockets

While I’ve generally felt safe in Paris, I will say that pickpocketing is common. They are crafty and will jump at any opportunity. 

That means being vigilant is a must, especially in busy, touristy areas. If you see street performers, just keep your hand on your belongings and be aware. While many street performers are just there for tips, sometimes they can be used as a distraction for pickpockets. 

On the metro, keep your bag in front of you and a hand on it. Essentially, do this in any crowded space. In restaurants, I usually leave my bag on my lap and never hang it over the back of my chair like I would in the US. 

I also don’t wear flashy jewelry, and I only carry a copy of my passport, one credit card, and however much cash I need for the day. The rest stays locked in the hotel safe. That way, if I get pickpocketed, I only have to cancel one card and am not out too much money. 

I also wear this anti-theft crossbody bag for extra protection. 

As a side note, most French people won’t just come up to you and start speaking English and try to get to know you. So if someone starts doing that, I’d assume it’s a scam and walk away. 

11. Paris is a City of Neighborhoods

Paris is comprised of 20 arrondissements, or neighborhoods. And each has its own unique vibe and things to offer. There is the 1st arrondissement that is located in the city center and full of attractions for tourists. 

There is also the hilly and artsy 18th arrondissement, known as Montmartre. And there is so much in between to explore. 

If you have the time, I highly recommend checking out several of these neighborhoods to get a feel for what Paris has to offer in each! This is definitely one of the best Paris travel tips!

12. Things to Know Before Going to Paris: Where to Stay

I have a whole blog post on where to stay in Paris based on your travel style , which I highly recommend as each part of Paris has its own feel. 

For shorter stays, definitely opt to stay in the city center, closer to the Louvre in the 1st arrondissement. For more affordable hotel options, opt for Canal Saint Martin or Montmartre. 

This whole guide has a ton of great information on hotels in the area based on your travel preferences. 

13. Paris is a Walkable City

If you’re traveling to Paris for the first time, you’ll likely wonder how to get around the city. Luckily, Paris can be a very walkable city depending on where you’re at.

While they also have an extensive metro system, I honestly enjoy taking my time and walking to many places in Paris. 

While yes, I highly recommend taking the metro when you want to get across town, if you’re just exploring a neighborhood or are in the central part of the city, walking is a lot of fun! 

Plus, you get to see more walking around the city. Find hidden gems along the way, enjoy the Seine, or pop into fun shops and restaurants! That is what Paris travel is all about. 

14. Paris Vacation Tips: Metro

Navigating the extensive metro around Paris can be a challenge. Most of the time, I just use my phone’s international plan and Google Maps to figure out where I’m going. But if you don’t want to do that, you can also purchase a SIM card with data on it to get around. 

Or, you can plan out your metro itinerary via the RATP Itinerary planner . This helps you find all the right stops and shortest routes to get where you need to go. 

Also, avoiding rush hour is a good idea if you don’t want to be crammed in. 8:00-10:00 am and 5-8 pm are the busiest times. 

PS- “Sortie” means “Exit.”

Oh, and as far as getting tickets, it costs €1.90 for a ticket, or you can get a pack of 10 tickets for €14.90. 

15. The Eiffel Tower Isn’t Where to Go For Views

I firmly believe that the best views of Paris include the Eiffel Tower. So the downside to going up the Eiffel Tower, aside from the crowds and costs, is that you don’t get that view. 

Instead, you can get an incredible Paris skyline view from Montparnasse Tower, Arc de Triomphe, or a rooftop bar like Bar Perruche. 

16. Book Tickets in Advance!

Y’all, skip-the-line tickets are where it’s at. Museums like the Louvre, D’Orsay, etc. are super busy and the lines to buy tickets can be insanely long. Nobody wants to spend their first time in Paris waiting in line after line to see the attractions. 

Instead, purchase tickets in advance! Explore the Louvre with this skip-the-line ticket that allows you entrance to another part of the museum and lets you avoid the queue entirely. 

For the best skip-the-line tickets, I love booking on Get Your Guide . 

17. One of the Biggest Paris Travel Tips: Don’t Just Visit the Louvre

Paris is a city full of incredible museums . The Louvre is, of course, the most popular and most visited, but it is hardly the only museum worth visiting. 

D’Orsay is incredible, and the smaller art museum L’Orangerie has the Monet Water Lilies! Aside from that, you can visit the delightful sculptures of the Rodin Museum, and there is also a Picasso Museum. 

Honestly, the amount of art museums is endless in Paris. 

Aside from art museums, there are some really interesting museums like the Museum of Fairground Arts with awesome vintage fairground rides and memorabilia or the Montmartre Museum with the history of this eclectic neighborhood. 

There is no way you’ll see all of it during your first time in Paris, but when it comes to Paris tourist tips, you’ll definitely want to explore some of these gems. 

18. Definitely Take a Full Day in Versailles

Versailles is an incredible day trip from Paris . But with the main palace, gardens, Petit Trianon, and Grand Trianon, it takes a long time to see. 

I fully recommend planning to spend a full day here, and better yet, book a bike tour to get around ! I loved this bike tour on my last visit to Paris, where our guide showed us around the estate before having us enter Versailles at the end when it was less busy. 

Plus, the tour allows you to get around quicker, meaning you have plenty of time to visit a lot of the estate and have a picnic on the Grand Canal. Oh, and you even get to enjoy the farmer’s market in the town itself! 

Book it here! 

19. Taking a Food Tour or Cooking Class With Locals is a Must

One of the best travel tips for Paris has to be to experience it on a food tour or cooking class with locals. 

I’ve done both in the past and each is lovely in its own way. I love this tour of Le Marais where you try many French delights and learn about this incredible neighborhood with a local. 

I’ve also learned how to make macarons in the home of a Parisian. You gain so much insight into the food and culture just by hanging out with locals for a time. Plus, Paris is such a foodie city that it helps to have a guide to show you some great places! 

20. Paris is a Great Place to Base Yourself For Day Trips

While Paris has plenty to do on its own for weeks on end, it is also a great place to base yourself for day trips. 

Plus, it is super easy to book day trips from Paris. I’ve visited the Loire Valley and Versailles on day trips from Paris. Here are a few to check out while you’re in town.

• Loire Valley 
• Bike Tour of Versailles
• Mont Saint Michel
• Champagne Tour
• Disneyland Paris
• D-Day Beaches of Normandy

21. Parisians Go on Vacation in Late July/August

Many Parisians go on their “les vacances” in late July and in August. So the town can empty out a bit. Tourists will definitely still be there, and of course not everyone leaves, but don’t be surprised if some smaller shops and local restaurants shut down during this time. 

Even while planning my next trip to France in July, I wanted to book a table at a restaurant and saw on their website that they’d be out from the end of July through part of August. So again, be sure to check online, and don’t be surprised if things shut down during this time. 

PS- For those who do stick around Paris, the city makes these little beaches along the Seine called “Paris Plages” where locals and tourists alike can get some sun. There are also ample bars along the Seine that are fun to visit in the summer while there! 

22. You Can Visit Paris on a Budget

When it comes to travel tips for Paris, France, know that yes, you can do this on a budget. I have a whole guide on how much a trip to Paris can cost , but even if you’re strapped for cash, you can still visit Paris. 

There are affordable hostels all over the city, and even affordable hotels that fit any budget. Just be sure to check them out on Hostelword.com or TripAdvisor.com and read reviews first! 

But you can eat cheaply here too. Many restaurants, especially at lunchtime, have prix fixe menus where you can have an appetizer, main, and dessert for a fixed price. 

Groceries and even wine are much cheaper in France than here in the US, and you can always grab some great street food at markets like Marche des Enfants Rouges or just at a creperie. 

Also, there are ample parks and great scenery that is free to see! The metro is also inexpensive. Just budget for some museums if you don’t qualify for the reduced or free entrance! 

23. 24-Hour Shops Aren’t Really a Thing

Okay, last, but not least in the Paris travel tips guide is the fact that 24/7 shops aren’t really a big thing. Grocery stores around the city typically close around 8 or 9 pm (sometimes earlier) and may be fully closed all day Sunday. 

This goes for most shops in the city. So don’t expect to run out and grab something late at night or on a Sunday, as many things will be closed. 

Paris is truly a magnificent city to visit. From the spacious parks full of life to the impeccable art museums, Paris is a city you could spend a lot of time exploring. So, for your first trip to Paris, these are the top tips to know before you go! 

Which of the Paris travel tips do you find the most helpful? 

Want more Paris ideas? Check these posts out!

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• When is the Best Time to Visit Paris?
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• Romantic Things to do in Paris
• Paris Bucket List
• Paris in January
• Paris in the Fall Guide
• Things to Do in Paris in the Summer
• 31 Top Paris Gifts
• Ultimate Solo Travel Guide in Paris

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15 things to see and do on your first trip to Paris

Want more tips for planning the ultimate trip to Paris? Visit our new Paris destination hub and check back throughout the week for travel guides, first-timers guides, restaurant recommendations and more!

Paris is a city that many points-and-miles travelers return to again and again. It's alluring for so many reasons -- the incredible culinary adventures you can have, its lens into history through its architecture and art museums, its walkability and world-class shopping. There is a lot to see and do in Paris and first-timers can have a hard time fitting it all in.

To help you get your bearings in the City of Light, here is TPG's list of things every first-time visitor to Paris should do. It's not an exhaustive list, but if you check off these 15 things, we bet you'll want to return to Paris to see even more.

Related: Should I fly to Paris Charles de Gaulle or Orly?

Get acclimated on a hop-on, hop-off sightseeing bus

Depending on where you're coming from, you may be tempted to check into your hotel on the first day and sleep off that jet lag. Do not do it! Instead, push yourself to get outside and start exploring the city. An easy way to do that is by stepping aboard one of the city's hop-on, hop-off sightseeing buses. You may not be a fan of this type of exploration, but here are some reasons why sightseeing buses are awesome . Several companies, including Big Bus, offer tours along a variety of routes. You can ride the complete circuit without getting off or, if you have some energy, hop on and off at your whim. We suggest riding for a bit and then hopping off for a coffee and croissant.

Related: Mistakes travelers often make during their first trip to Paris

Be part of cafe culture

Paris is known throughout the world for its sidewalk cafes . On Day One of your trip -- and every day thereafter -- you owe it to yourself to seek out an outdoor table at a cafe, order a coffee and croissant and people-watch. Some popular options are Cafe de la Paix at the InterContinental Paris-Le Grand and, in Saint-Germain, Les Deux Magots and Cafe de Flore. Brush up on your French a bit so you can order and communicate -- even just a little bit -- with your waiter.

Cruise the Seine

As the evening falls on your first night, consider a romantic cruise along the Seine. You can book a cruise with commentary or even a full-blown dinner cruise that includes drinks, a meal and musical entertainment. Some ticket packages, like certain Big Bus options and The Paris Pass, include a Seine cruise. Or purchase tickets a la carte. A nighttime Seine cruise can be magical as the city lights up all around you. It's wonderful to cruise during the day too. It's your choice.

Visit the Eiffel Tower

It's pretty much impossible to visit Paris and not catch a glimpse of the Eiffel Tower but it's worth visiting up close. You can skip the lines by buying a ticket in advance or getting entrance as part of a package. At the tower, explore the groundfloor Esplanade. That's where you'll find the information desk, a sculpture of Gustave Eiffel and the 1899 hydraulic machines that still operate the elevators. You'll also find restaurants and gift shops. In the tower itself, you can go to the first floor (with its glass floor, shops and restaurants), second floor (to view the cityscape and so many of its landmarks as well as dine at The Jules Verne Restaurant) and right to the top for breathtaking views. The top floor is 276 meters above ground and there's a Champagne bar up there to add to the festiveness.

Explore the Louvre -- more than once

The Louvre wins over everyone -- even people who normally don't enjoy art museums. There is so much to see, from the architecture of the building itself to the art (don't just see the Mona Lisa and then ditch), the adjacent Tuileries Garden, the Carrousel du Louvre mall under the gardens and nearby Saint Honore and Place Vendome. (Make a point to stop at Angelina on Rue Rivoli for some excellent pastries and hot chocolate.)

The museum is huge and you won't be able to see everything in one visit so consider coming back a second time. Try daytime and nighttime visits. The museum is open until 9:45 p.m. on Wednesdays and Fridays. Arrive around 6 p.m. and the crowds will be much lighter. And download the museum's app in advance so you can select which galleries you'd prefer exploring. (For a fantastic hotel with views of the Louvre, check out Hyatt's Hotel du Louvre .)

Related: How to avoid the soul-crushing crowds at the Louvre

Walk along the Champs-Elysees

You may not normally shop designer brands but that's no reason to skip a stroll along the famed Champs-Elysees in the 8th arrondissement. This shopping boulevard runs from Place de la Concorde to the Arc de Triomphe and is lined with boutiques like Louis Vuitton, Tiffany and Guerlain.

Related: Paris on points is possible -- here's where to stay

See the Arc de Triomphe

The Arc de Triomphe, at the west end of the Champs-Elysees, is one of the most renowned monuments in the city. It honors those who fought and lost their lives in the French Revolution and Napoleonic Wars. It's located in the Place Charles de Gaulle and the plaza is the convergence of the 16th, 17th and 8th arrondissements.

Tour the Palais Garnier

There are so many gorgeous historic buildings in Paris. If you enjoy architecture, take a tour of -- or at least walk by -- Palais Garnier (Opera Garnier) in the 9th arrondissement. Napoleon III ordered its construction, which took place between 1861 and 1875. The building has long been famous and was even the setting for the 1910 novel, "The Phantom of the Opera" by Gaston Leroux. Dozens of artisans worked on the interior and exterior of the building. Take in the Grand Foyer, Grand Staircase and the incredible statues by Gumery perched atop the building. You can take a self-guided or guided tour of this stupendous building. Note that the InterContinental Paris-Le Grand is just a few minute's walk from the Opera House. If you haven't yet enjoyed a Parisian cafe, check out Cafe de la Paix at the hotel.

Shop at the Galeries Lafayette Paris Haussmann

Just a five-minute walk from Palais Garnier is Galeries Lafayette Paris Haussmann. Here you can get the quintessential Paris shopping experience with all the luxury brands you love. There are all sorts of activities year-round. Right now, you'll find a free rooftop skating rink, a children's fashion workshop and the Glasswalk. This nine-meter-long walkway is suspended 16 meters in the air so you can get to the middle of the building's dome from the third floor of the main store.

Related: 3 ways to do Paris on points

Whatever you do, cut yourself some slack in the dieting department when you visit Paris. There are so many wonderful gourmet shops, bakeries, patisseries, cafes, bistros and restaurants. Plan to walk as much as you can throughout the day so you won't feel guilty sampling baguettes, croissants, pastries, cheese, charcuterie, chocolates and so much more. Don't miss TPG's guide to Paris' best croissants, cheese, chocolate and pastries .

And, consider joining a food tour. We've done several with Paris by Mouth and have always had a wonderful time with spot-on suggestions for where to eat and shop in the city. What's fun about the tours is that many take you to the best markets in town, like the covered Marche des Enfants Rouges in the Marais district, founded in 1628. It's a fantastic place to see how Parisians shop and you can also have lunch there.

Ride the funicular to Montmartre for Sacre-coeur

Tourists rightfully flock to Butte Montmartre, the highest point in Paris and the location of the Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Paris -- Sacre-Coeur. This Roman Catholic church in the 18th arrondissement is one of the most-visited sites in Paris. The Roman-Byzantine building is beautiful, there's an incredible pipe organ inside and the views from the basilica are captivating. To get to the domed church, you'll take a funicular. You can explore the church for free but if you want to climb the steps to the dome, you'll need to buy a ticket.

See Paris' "dark side" in the Catacombs

On the macabre side of tourism are the Catacombs of Paris in the 14th arrondissement. These underground tunnels, formerly a quarry, hold the remains of six million people, transferred here in the 18th century after public health concerns about the city's cemeteries. In 1809, the catacombs were opened to the public. This is not the perfect attraction for anyone with mobility challenges since there are 131 steps to descend into the catacombs and 112 steps to climb back up. Plan on spending about an hour on-site.

See Notre Dame -- even if you can't go inside

In April 2019, fire ravaged Notre Dame Cathedral . Although the spire and part of the roof collapsed, 400 firefighters saved the two main bell towers and the cathedral's facade. Still, the damage was extensive and tours inside the structure are not permitted at this time. You should still make a point to view the exterior of the building.

Related: Paris hotels on points for families of 4

Experience a show at the Moulin Rouge

If you visited Montmartre during the day to see Sacre-Coeur, return in the evening for a cabaret performance at Moulin Rouge. There are glamorous showgirls, fabulous costumes, incredible set design, music and more. Even if you're not into these types of shows, it's kind of a rite of passage when visiting the city for the first time.

  View this post on Instagram   Nous espérons que vous passez un bel été ! We are hoping that you are spending a great summer! ☀️ ©Moulin Rouge #moulinrouge #moulinrougeofficiel #show #spectacle #paris #dance #danse #montmartre #backstage #coulisses #feerie #revue #france #dancer #danseur #makeup #warmup #maquillage #friendship #gettingready #smile #summer A post shared by Le Moulin Rouge - Officiel (@moulinrougeofficiel) on Aug 2, 2019 at 7:30am PDT

Wander and get lost

Finally, the best piece of advice is this: Get out into the city and explore. It's easy to get around on foot or via the Metro or ride-hailing service. Wander and take in everything Paris has to offer. We guarantee you that your first visit won't be your last.

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18 paris travel tips for first-timers  .

If you’re planning a trip to Paris for the first time, congratulations! I’m so excited for you to experience one of the most beautiful and romantic cities in the world. There are a lot of things to know about visiting Paris, and so in this post, I’m sharing some of my top Paris travel tips – the best things to know before you go to Paris as a first-time visitor. 

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This is a guest post by Paris expert Stephanie from the travel blog The Unknown Enthusiast

Why Visit Paris?

Paris is famous for incredible food, beautiful historic buildings, wonderful art museums and some of the most iconic monuments in the world – if you’re thinking about visiting Paris for the first time, you definitely should!  However, planning your first trip to Paris can be overwhelming, with so many things to think about when visiting this lovely city.

You want to make sure you enjoy your time here and have an enjoyable stay, getting to enjoy a taste of Parisian culture without missing out on the top attractions in Paris.  So, I’ve brought together my top Paris tips for travelers so you can prepare for your trip.

18 Top Paris Travel Tips

I wrote this article based on my top tips for visiting Paris for the first time, but even if you’ve been to Paris before it is easy to miss some of the best things to do in Paris by not planning properly!  So, I hope these tips for travel to Paris will help you whether it’s your first trip or your tenth!

Check out these essential tips when traveling to Paris that will make your time here all the more special!

Don’t Miss the Top Things to do in Paris

There are lots of fabulous things to do in Paris, and these are some of the most popular activities and tours that many visitors choose to do on their first trip to Paris.  

• 1-hour River Seine Cruise
• Eiffel Tower Direct Access Tour
• Louvre Museum Timed-Entrance Skip the Line Ticket
• Skip-the-Line Arc de Triomphe Rooftop Tickets
• Paris Saint-Germain Parc des Princes Stadium Tour
• Moulin Rouge Cabaret Show Ticket
• A Walking Food Tour with Cheese and Wine
• A Disneyland Paris One Day Ticket

Or you can browse more tours and attractions in Paris here .  That said, there is no need to pay for tours and experiences in Paris if you don’t want to.  You can still have an amazing Paris vacation without spending a lot of money, read on for more Paris travel tips!  

FIND A TOUR IN PARIS

Buy Baguettes and Pastries from a Boulangerie

Stepping into a boulangerie , or bakery, in Paris is one of the most classically French things you can do! French people usually go to bakeries on a daily basis, picking up a fresh baguette to round out the next meal, buying a breakfast pastry in the morning, a sandwich or quiche for lunch, or a dessert for the evening.

You’ll definitely want to try a croissant, pain au chocolat (like a croissant but with chocolate in the middle), and a croissant aux amandes (a croissant with almond paste inside – my personal favorite). 

If you’re American and this is your first time trying a true French baguette – you’re in for a treat! Baguettes in France are nothing like baguettes in the United States. French baguettes are crackly on the outside (press your thumb into the crust just a little bit to hear the crunch!), and perfectly soft on the inside. Even better – they usually cost only about 1 euro!

Try Cheese from a Fromagerie 

Besides baguettes (and wine), cheese is one of the most quintessential French foods there is, and a fromagerie , or cheese shop, is where you can find the highest quality cheeses. Personally, I don’t feel like I’ve been to France unless I’ve eaten at least a few different varieties of French cheese.

Whether it’s your first trip to Paris or your 5th, I would highly recommend stopping at a fromagerie and picking up a few varieties to sample. You can always ask the fromager for help and suggestions, and if you ask nicely, they may cut a small slice of cheese for you to sample to help make your decision. 

You can choose among cheeses from a sheep, cow, or goat, between hard and soft cheeses, and strong or mild-flavored cheeses. I would recommend trying a good brie or camembert, as well as comté (my favorite!). Tomme de savoie is another good cheese choice. 

After you’ve bought some cheese and a baguette, find a nearby park and enjoy a little picnic lunch! It’s one of my favorite pastimes in Paris (and if you’re visiting with your partner, it’s one of the most romantic things to do in Paris ). 

Stay in a Central Location

Paris is divided into 20 arrondissements, or neighborhoods in the city. Each of these arrondissements has a different feel to it, and of course, is home to different attractions. Each arrondissement has a number (1 through 20), but some of them also have other names.

For example, the 18th arrondissement is known as Montmartre, the 3rd and 4th arrondissements are known as the Marais, and the 5th arrondissement is known as the Latin Quarter. 

While you can stay farther outside the city (beyond the 20 arrondissements), I would highly recommend staying in a more central location, where you can walk to some of the attractions and really enjoy the Parisian environment. 

When deciding which arrondissement to stay in Paris, it’s important to consider which places you want to walk to, the vibe that you are going for (e.g. would you like to stay somewhere more residential or right by the biggest attractions?). I would recommend considering the 1st, 4th, 5th, 6th, 7th, 8th, and 18th arrondissements when deciding where to stay in Paris for the first time. 

My top travel tip for where to stay in Paris? Choose a hotel near the Arc de Triomphe . You’ll be within walking distance to several attractions and points of interest, in a beautiful neighborhood, and the metro stop under the Arc connects to several really convenient metro lines to take you to top spots around the city. 

Hotel Rooms are Incredibly Small

One more thing to bear in mind is that hotels in Paris are usually located in historic buildings – which is so fun and authentic! These historic buildings also tend to be pretty tight, and so a standard hotel room in Paris is much, much smaller than a standard hotel room in the United States. 

In the same vein, hotel elevators in France are teeny tiny – sometimes only big enough to hold one person and their luggage! Personally, I find the elevators in France to be such a fun novelty! 

Unfortunately, Paris is quite expensive when it comes to accommodation, so prepare to spend more than you might expect for your small room!  Being prepared and having accurate expectations for the smaller accommodations in Paris will make your stay much more pleasant. 

Where to Stay in Paris on a Budget

While Parisian hotels can definitely get pretty expensive, there are a good number of budget-friendly options in the city. Here are a few to consider: 

Le Village Montmartre by Hiphophostels : This hostel is located in the heart of the cozy Montmartre district, has options for dorm or private rooms, and has several pretty and well-designed common spaces for guests to enjoy.  >>>CHECK PRICES AND AVAILABILITY

The Absolute Paris Boutique Hostel : This hostel offers primarily private rooms (although there is still a bunk room option), which is great for budget travelers wanting a little more privacy. It’s in the 11th arrondissement, but right near the 3rd the heart of the trendy Marais district. >>>CHECK PRICES AND AVAILABILITY

L’Ouest Hotel : This budget-friendly hotel is in an excellent, centrally-located location, only a 10-20 walk from Montmartre, the Opera Garnier, the Champs Elysees, Parc Monceau, and the Arc de Triomphe!  >>>CHECK PRICES AND AVAILABILITY

BROWSE MORE HOTELS IN PARIS

Enjoy Paris for Free

While Paris is not a cheap city there are plenty of free things to do in Paris that you can enjoy without even spending a penny.  Get lost in pretty neighborhoods like Montmatre, explore the beautiful parks in Paris and stroll along the Seine as well as check out some of the free museums in Paris.  

Remember that to enjoy a city like Paris you don’t need to spend a fortune on expensive activities or attractions in Paris, just make the most of the Parisian streets and admire the views as you wander.

Paris is very Walkable, but Attractions are Spread Out

Paris is a very walkable city, and you’ll find lots of other pedestrians out strolling the streets or commuting to work on foot. While there are plenty of attractions located within walking distance of each other, the city is also pretty big, and attractions are spread throughout many of the neighborhoods. 

Take the Metro

So how to get between the different neighborhoods and sights in Paris? Take the metro! The metro is a safe, inexpensive, and convenient way to get around Paris. I’d recommend you buy a “carnet,” or a set of 10 metro tickets, at once. It’s just slightly cheaper per ticket, and means you don’t have to buy a metro ticket every time you enter a station. I find that I usually go on 3-5 metro rides a day when I’m doing heavy sightseeing around Paris. 

Make sure to keep your metro ticket on you until you are outside of the metro system. There are officials who will wander and check your ticket, making sure you have a current one (and fining you if you don’t). I’ve only been stopped and checked 3 times, so it’s not frequent, but it does happen. 

Here is my tip for using the metro in Paris: I recommend keeping your unused tickets in a pouch in your purse or wallet. Then, when you go to use a ticket, keep that ticket in your pants pocket while you are riding the trains. As you exit the station, toss it in the trash. That way, you don’t get mixed up on what tickets are what and which ones have been used. 

Also, while the metro is overall safe, do be careful of your belongings and watch for pickpockets. 

Wander Montmartre (not just Sacre Coeur)

Most tourists come to the area of Montmartre to see the Moulin Rouge , or the Sacré Coeur Basilica, a stark white church with a domed top. And while you definitely should make a stop at Sacré Coeur and Moulin Rouge, there is actually so much more to experience in Montmartre! The streets in this neighborhood are particularly charming. 

You can visit La Maison Rose, an iconic pink restaurant right in the heart of Montmartre. Discover some of many picturesque staircases in Montmartre, or two other historic windmills besides the Moulin Rouge. On Rue Lepic there are plenty of pastry, chocolate, and cheese shops to discover. 

Learn at least the Basic Greetings in French

Although there is a stereotype (I think un-deserved) of French people being rude, in actuality, French people really value politeness. It’s polite to say hello whenever you enter a shop or interact with a merchant, and you always say thank you, goodbye,or have a good day, when leaving.

While it’s not necessary to speak French when visiting Paris, learning a few basic phrases is very appreciated by French people. If you can only remember a few words, learn these:

• Hello: Bonjour
• Goodbye: Au revoir
• Have a good day: Bonne journée
• Excuse me: Pardon
• Please: S’il vous plait
• Thank you: Merci
• Do you speak English: Parlez-vous anglais? 

Don’t Skip the Gardens at Versailles

The massive chateau of Versailles is a top bucket list item for many people on their trip to Paris, and indeed, the palace is unbelievably sumptuous and ornate and over the top. But the gardens are just as lovely and have remarkable attention to detail.

You can find manicured gardens, large ponds and reflecting pools, over 400 statues, a grand lawn, and different groves with paths through them. In the back of the Versailles grounds there are three other beautiful buildings to walk through: The Grand Trianon, the Petit Trianon, and Marie Antoinette’s Hamlet are all buildings designed to give the king and queen a respite from daily palace life, and are gorgeous retreats on the Versailles grounds. 

Essential Tips for Visiting the Louvre

The Louvre is massive. You could literally spend days or weeks discovering all the artwork displayed within its walls. But did you know that the Louvre itself actually used to be a palace? Personally, I’ve always thought that the Louvre building is in itself a gorgeous work of art – you have intricate sculptures and columns and murals painted on the ceilings!

The Louvre is divided into 3 separate wings, and each wing has several floors. While everyone has their favorites for what to see at the Louvre, here are my suggestions for what to see on a visit to the Louvre: 

• In the Denon Wing: On the 1st floor you can see the Winged Victory, the Mona Lisa, Napoleon’s Coronation, the Apollo Gallery
• In the Richelieu Wing: On the 0 floor,  you can see the Cour Marly and Cour Puget sculpture galleries, and the Code of Hammurabi in the Antiquities section.  On the 2nd floor there are some French and Northern European paintings.
• In the Sully wing: The Venus de Milo is on the 0 floor. Go to the 2nd floor for more French and Northern European paintings

Don’t forget to book your tickets online in advance to avoid the huge lines!  >>>BOOK TICKETS HERE

Choosing Which Paris Museums to Visit

Paris has dozens of museums beyond the Louvre, and even the most casual of art enjoyers will find something beautiful to appreciate in the museums of Paris. Here are a few other museums to consider visiting:

• The Rodin: sculptures set in a historic estate. The most famous work is “The Thinker,” set in the garden. 
• The Musée d’Orsay: Has beautiful impressionist art (think Renoir, Monet, Manet, Van Gogh, Degas, and others)
• The L’Orangerie: Holds many of Monet’s Water Lilies paintings. 
• The Centre Pompidou: Modern art (and the building itself is modern art!)
• Musée de Cluny: A museum of medieval art 
• Musée Carnavalet: A museum about the history of Paris

Paris Museum Pass versus the Paris Pass

Depending on what you want to do in Paris, you may want to consider the Paris Museum Pass or the Paris Pass. The Paris Museum Pass includes entry to, you guessed it, many of the museums and monuments around the city, including the Louvre, Versailles, the Arc de Triomphe, the Rodin and Orsay Museum, and Sainte Chapelle (plus many others!).

The Paris Pass includes admission to all of these museums and monuments, but also includes entrance to other restaurants (with a meal included) and experiences around the city. 

It’s worth considering both of these passes, as, depending on what you want to do, they can both be good money savers in Paris!

The French Eat Dinner Late

French people tend to eat dinner quite a bit later than people in the United States, with the dinner rush usually going between 7:30-11pm. If you are eating at 7pm, you will almost certainly be by yourself (or with other tourists).

A few tips: Sometimes restaurants will close between lunch and dinner service. French people tend to eat quite slowly, and take a long time to savor their meal and linger over dinner. Finally, don’t choose restaurants right by popular monuments or tourist attractions – going even a few blocks away will bring you to better, more local restaurants. 

Public Bathrooms (especially free ones) Are Rare

It is remarkably difficult to find a public bathroom, much less a free public bathroom in Paris. Any of the larger museums and monuments will have bathrooms, but you may have to pay 50 cents to 1 euro to use it. Restaurants or cafes may or may not have a public bathroom, and again, you may need to pay a little to use it. 

Definitely don’t count on stores, supermarkets, or metro stations having public bathrooms. Sometimes you can find a bathroom in a park, but not always (and sometimes they are locked). There are occasionally little bathroom pods on the street that you can use, but these will often have somewhat of a line, can be incredibly disgusting, and are often out of order. 

The moral of the story is: if you see a restroom, take advantage!

Paris in December is Magical

While it might be cold and miserable weather, visiting Paris in the winter can actually be a wonderful experience, especially at Christmas time.  Christmas trees and colorful decorations are set up all over the city, and there are well over a dozen Christmas markets that take place in Paris during December.

The largest market is out in La Defense, but the markets by the Eiffel Tower, Les Halles, and the Jardin de Tuileries are all particularly popular. Make sure you swing by Galeries Lafayette to see their famous, giant Christmas tree, and sip some mulled wine or hot chocolate as you browse the Christmas markets – and come prepared to wrap up warm! 

Final Thoughts on Visiting Paris for the First Time

The biggest travel tip I can give you for Paris is to just go! Paris is a beautiful city and one that everyone should experience at least once in their life.  So, what are you waiting for?

About the Author

Stephanie is the author of the travel blog The Unknown Enthusiast , where she writes about exciting travel destinations around the globe. You can find her on Pinterest and Instagram . 

Hi! I'm Claire Sturzaker, a 30-something foodie traveller who loves to enjoy the best of a destination without breaking the bank. I'm here to help you and all women backpackers to plan their best budget travel adventure. I am an avid supporter of female solo travel, and took my first solo trip 20 years ago! I love to write about travel, hostels, backpacking and van life.

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First Time in Paris? 21 Travel Tips For Paris and Essential Things To Know – Episode 144

Visiting Paris for the first time and wondering what to expect? Helpful tips for Paris travel and first time in Paris tips to set realistic expectations for your upcoming vacation.

For as long as I could remember, Paris was at the tippy top of my travel wish list, up until 2014 when I planned my first solo vacation to the ‘City of Lights.’ Since then, I’ve had the pleasure of visiting two more times, most recently with my mom and son. Experiencing Paris through their eyes prompted this blog post and podcast episode.

Whether you’re drawn to the iconic landmarks, like the Eiffel Tower or the grandeur of the Louvre’s glass pyramid, the Parisian timeless fashion style, culinary delights, or more relaxed way of life, these tips for visiting Paris for the first time will not only let you know what to expect, but also pave the way for a truly unforgettable vacation.

If you’re dreaming about visiting Paris one day, or actively planning your vacation in the coming months, here are some things first-time visitors should know about Paris (from the perspective of an American millennial). Such as when crossing the street, be mindful of bike lanes, cultural norms and differences, and tips for navigating the city with a baby.

Listen to this podcast episode below.

Listen on Apple Podcasts  |  Google Podcasts  |  Spotify  |  Amazon Music  |  Pandora  |  Any player

This podcast episode is made in partnership with Medjet . While travel medical insurance reimburses you for the costs associated with medical emergencies while traveling, most medevac benefits will only get you to the nearest “acceptable” hospital capable of stabilizing and treating you. To get moved home, you need an air-medical transport membership like Medjet.

You can also add 24/7 travel security and crisis response benefits. Whether you are hospitalized while traveling or feel threatened, you can call them. There are never any claims, out-of-pocket expenses (outside your membership), or surprise bills afterward.

Click here for the full write-up about Medjet to learn why standard travel and medical insurance sometimes isn’t enough and scenarios where having a Medjet membership would be beneficial.

Join thousands of celebrities, athletes and executives, as well as experienced travelers, including myself, who choose Medjet for peace of mind.

A First Timers Guide To Paris

Table of Contents

1. Smoking is common.

2. emphasis on face-to-face interactions., 3. paris is a walkable city., 4. easier to use cash., 5. avoid using the metro with a baby stroller., 6. sidewalks can be difficult to navigate with a stroller., 7. be mindful of bike lanes., 8. groceries and the pharmacy conveniently on every block., 9. easily get baby supplies on the go., 10. youth get discounts., 11. uber is easy to use., 12. visiting the eiffel tower, 13. you may have to pay to use the restroom, 14. shops in residential areas closed on wednesdays., 15. wait staff won’t rush you., 16. late dining after 7 pm, 17. parisian fashion (summer)., 18. learning a little french goes a long way, 19. wine is affordable., 20. ask for ketchup, see their reaction, 21. you won’t see it all..

Some love Paris while others dislike it vowing never to return again. I strongly believe everyone should visit at least once and form their own opinion. I hope traveling to Paris for the first time is as magical for you as it was for me and my family.

Listen to this podcast episode on YouTube.

Unlike the U.S., smoking cigarettes is alive and well in Paris. While smoking indoors is prohibited and strictly enforced, smoking is normal when sitting outside, including on a patio or bistro sidewalk.

This is especially important to keep in mind if you want to sit outside with your baby.

It’s common to see people enjoying a cigarette while people-watching at an outdoor cafe.

Typically smoking is seen as a social activity and a way to take breaks throughout the day.

People are less on their phones. They may have their headphones on, but overall it feels like screen consumption is less prevalent in Paris.

There’s more of an emphasis on making personal connections, catching up with friends, and enjoying the present moment.

While there are plenty of convenient and affordable public transit options like the metro and bus system, if you prefer to walk, you certainly can.

On foot, it’s easy to spend an hour or more getting from one side of the city to another.

One of my favorite things about Paris is that a lot of attractions are relatively close together. For example, the Arc de Triomphe is near the Eiffel Tower, Champ de Mar, Champs-Élysées, Jardin des Tuileries, and more.

Since we stayed near the 9th arrondissement, we easily spent an hour walking from one side of the city to another.

Pack your comfortable walking shoes.

Alternatively, consider a multi-day Paris hop-on, hop-off bus tour for sightseeing and transportation built all in one.

Not all places accept credit cards or there may be spending minimum requirements when using plastic, so have Euros on you especially for coffee and quick bites like a croissant. Cash is also great for tipping. Round up for good service. Tipping in Paris isn’t obligatory; €1-2 is more than fine.

If you plan on taking the metro with a baby stroller, be mindful there are a lot stairs and escalators. While there are elevators at some stations, it’s pretty random, so prepare to exert a lot of effort navigating with your baby.

For a compact, lightweight stroller, I use the Blahoo Lightweight Baby Stroller . I love that you can push a button and the stroller collapses making it easy to fold when walking in/out of the train.

Personally, taking the metro was too much of a hassle for us. We much preferred to walk long distances and when we were too tired, we opted for Uber rides (once or twice during our weeklong stay. That being said, we were on vacation and had no where urgent to be.

If you decide to take the metro, using Google Maps will help you navigate: click here for other recommended vacation planning apps .

Speaking of difficulty navigating with strollers, be prepared for uneven sidewalks and surfaces.

Sometimes our stroller would get caught in the ramp making it a jarring experience when crossing the street. We never knew when we would have to adjust our stroller last-minute in a hurry.

Countless times walking in Paris I wished the sidewalk ramps were as smooth and uniform as in the US. 

On popular streets, right when you leave the side walk, there are bike lanes which may be difficult to recognize. Bike lanes are typically marked with road markings. Always look both ways before crossing, and be mindful of oncoming cyclists.

Grocery stores and pharmacies are very common, as well as boulegeries (bakeries) and chocolate shops.

A lot of neighborhood groceries are small markets where you can find fresh produce, dairy products, meat, bread, and wine.

Popular grocery stores include Monoprix and Franprix which have an extensive wine section.

Pharmacies are usually marked with a green plus (+) neon sign. Here you can get prescription medications, over-the-counter medications, skincare products, more.

Don’t worry about forgetting baby supplies at home because you can easily grab a lot of items at the grocery store, including distilled water, wipes, and baby food.

People under 25 years old can take advantage of discounted tickets to museums and cultural attractions, public transit, and more.

Be sure to carry identification that proves your age, such as your passport or license.

If you’re a student, it’s worth carrying a valid student ID as proof of eligibility for discounts, even if you’re not a student in France.

Uber is a convenient and a reliable transportation option in Paris.

Use the Uber app already installed on your phone. When booking an Uber in Paris, there are no language barriers. Everything is translated in English for you and pay using the payment methods already on file or add a new one.

Unfortunately, at the airport we couldn’t order an Uber ride.

Flat rate taxi rides from Charles de Gaulle (CDG) airport was €60 to the 9th arrondissement. Look for the official taxi stand, avoid unsolicited offers to take you the city center.

While it took a lot longer to get to our hotel, we choose a shuttle bus for a fraction of the price which dropped us off at Paris-Opéra within 1.5 hours.

Due to high summer demand, elevator tickets to the Eiffel Tower’s second floor can sell out fast, so if you know you want to visit, book early.

While you may not be able to take the elevator up, everyone can take the elevator down regardless of ticket type.

If you’re visiting the Eiffel Tower with a baby, beware there’s no where to store your stroller or diaper bag.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Danielle | Travel Podcast Host + Podcast Coach (@thedanielledesir)

On the second floor, there’s a lounge area with a tropical theme where you can rest, eat a slice of pizza, order coffee, or enjoy a cocktail.

Read Next: What To Expect on a Sightseeing Paris River Cruise

While this is more common in other European cities. There are places where you have to pay to use the bathroom, like Notre Dame Cathedral: €2.50 per use; credit card or cash accepted. The bathroom was upscale, neat, and attendants were at a ready available to clean and be of assistance.

Since we stayed in a residential neighborhood, we noticed a lot of small shops closed on Wednesdays. 

Larger stores, supermarkets, shopping malls, and tourist-oriented areas maintained regular hours throughout the week, including Wednesdays.

Keep in mind, businesses and attractions may not be open every day of the year, so double check operating hours online beforehand.

While, waiters will come right away to take your order, they don’t rush you afterward.

Food service in Paris is fast, but after they serve you, they’ll let you be, so expect to be at a cafe or restaurant for a while. Enjoy the slower more relaxed pace of life!

Also, handwritten menus in cursive are popular, which may be difficult to read. 

It’s quite common to grab dinner between 7:30 pm and 9:00 pm in Paris. Restaurants, cafes, and bars are quite popular even later, well into the night.

Generally Parisans wear loose fitted clothes in the summer. I didn’t see a lot of short shorts or skin tight clothing like in the States. Babies were covered up to protect from the sun.

In addition to using sunscreen, I recommend bringing light-weight long sleeve shirts and pants for your baby.

Do you need to learn basic French for your trip?

While a lot of people speak English in Paris, or want to practice their English with you, making an effort to learn some basic French phrases goes a long way, even if your pronunciation isn’t perfect. Most locals will appreciate your effort.

Don’t assume everyone speaks English; start with French and see how far you get.

For example, say “Bonjour” when entering any restaurant or establishment. It’s the polite and respectful thing to do.

Some popular French phrases to know before you go include:

Please – S’il vous plaît

Yes – Oui

No – Non

Thank you – Merci

Excuse me – Excusez-moi

How much does it cost? – Combien ça coûte?

Good morning / Hello – Bonjour

Good night – Bonne nuit

Help me – Aidez-moi

Do you speak English? – Parlez-vous anglais?

The bill – L’addition

The bill, please – L’addition, s’il vous plaît

Water – L’eau

The menu – La carte

Restrooms – Toilettes

I am lost – Je suis perdu

You can find reasonably priced wines in Paris, especially if you purchase them from supermarkets or local wine shops.

Dining at restaurants or cafes, a pitcher of wine (4 glasses) is cheaper than buying a single glass.

Partisans think asking for ketchup is weird, likely because it overpowers the flavors of the dish. But here in the States, we love our ketchup, sauces, and condiments, especially on fish and chips, burgers, and fries!

Listen to this podcast episode on Spotify.

You can pack your itinerary with things to do in Paris from morning until night and still won’t see everything. This is one of my top travel tips for Paris.

Don’t stress about crossing things off your list, or missing something quintessential.

Relax, space out activities, and appreciate what the city has to offer, for whatever time you have. Although I recommend spending 5-7+ days on your first time to Paris to soak it all in.

There will always be a next time.

I hope these travel trips to Paris offered lots of insights, answered some of your questions about traveling to Paris, France and what you can expect.

What other travel tips for first time in Paris would you recommend? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

Danielle Desir Corbett paid off $63,000 of student loan debt in 4 years, bought a house at 27, and has traveled to 27 countries, including her favorites, Iceland, China, and Bermuda. Go here to learn Danielle’s incredible story, from struggling financially and in debt to finding creative ways to earn more and live on her terms. Listen to The Thought Card Podcast , where Danielle shares how you can creatively travel more and build wealth regardless of your current financial situation. Reach out to Danielle by contacting: thethoughtcard (at) gmail (dot) com.

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Paris Trip Planning Tips For First-Time Visitors: Our Expert Advice

Last Updated on April 4, 2024

For whatever reason, many first-time visitors to the French capital find themselves feeling a bit nervous during the trip-planning stage. Paris has certainly gained a reputation for being an intimidating place, even though it also happens to be the world’s single-most-visited city.

Whatever the reasons for the nerves it tends to provoke in travelers (especially for those unaccustomed to going abroad or unfamiliar with French culture), the good news is that they can be remedied. If you’re feeling a bit jittery while planning a trip to Paris, keep reading.

Our expert travel tips will give you all the grounding you need to do so confidently. Here are a few simple steps you can take before and during your stay to get around like a pro and enjoy your time to the fullest.

Explore This Article

1. Book Your Trip Well in Advance

One of the biggest mistakes I see travelers making (and I myself have fallen into this trap) is booking a trip to Paris at the last minute, somehow thinking they’ll snag better deals by waiting it out. Some also put off planning because it can be genuinely overwhelming at first: there are so many choices and decisions to make, and sometimes it can feel a bit like flying blind.

But in reality, planning well on advance is the wiser way to go about it. You’re more likely to be able to find better deals on flights, trains and/or hotels, and will have the time to carefully consider your budget, interests, mobility/accessibility issues, and other factors. (See more on some of these points by scrolling down).

So when is the best time to book?

According to the air travel expert Benet Wilson , many people find the best deals for flights roughly 120 days before a scheduled trip (when flying to Europe from North America). This is especially the case for France’s high season (roughly late March to late September).

But not everyone will be flying from North America, of course. If you’re flying or taking the train to France from within Europe, for instance, you can sometimes lock in great deals closer to your travel dates, especially in low season.

Operators like Eurostar , for example, often put on “flash sales”, and low-cost airlines do offer good fares between European cities, sometimes at the last minute.

My bottom line? I advise that you start planning your trip at least six to eight months in advance– and booking flights from overseas well ahead of your trip. But if traveling within Europe, you might consider signing up for newsletters or other “deal alerts” for trains and flights.

Ready to book? You can  find train/Eurostar tickets and discount rail passes here (via Rail Europe)  and search for discounts on flights to and around France  here (via Skyscanner).

Give yourself plenty of time to look for hotels or other accommodations that suit your budget. You can look for hotels and furnished apartments in Paris at Booking.com , and find deals on accommodations at Expedia .

Consider travel insurance

You may also want to consider whether taking out an international travel insurance policy is something that you and your fellow travelers need. Remember that health care is not free for visitors to France, even though landing in the hospital won’t likely plunge you into debt.

To ensure you get the coverage you need, make sure to read the fine print for any policy you consider– and shop around for the best rates.

2. Pick a Season That Matches Your Interests (But Above All Your Budget)

While many people assume that Paris is “best experienced” in spring or summer, this is simply untrue. In fact, anyone with tight budgets, intolerance for hot, crowded conditions, and a desire for quieter travel experiences will likely actively dislike visiting the capital between April and mid-to-late September.

As I explain in our full guide to deciding when to book your trip to Paris , every season has its clear perks and charms as well as obnoxious downsides. It’s crucial to carefully consider your budget, the sorts of activities and attractions that interest you the most, tolerance for heat, rain or cold, and other factors before reaching a verdict around when to go.

So if you’re wondering when the “best” time is, I’m afraid you’ll have to figure that one out for yourself. It’s simply too personal for a cookie-cutter answer.

3. Choose Your Lodgings Very Carefully

As I document in this piece on avoiding bad hotels in Paris, they are very numerous in the capital. I’d venture to say, based on some of my recent disappointing experiences in overpriced, cramped, shabby hotel rooms, that the city has a very poor track record for offering good value for money when it comes to lodging.

This is a shame– and it’s also something you should keep very much in mind before hitting the “book” button on a hotel that looks great in promotional pictures on Booking.com or elsewhere.

Follow these tips to choose your lodgings wisely, and avoid disappointment and stress.

Don’t go too cheap.

In the aforementioned piece on avoiding horrid hotels in the capital, I advise allocating a good amount of your budget to hotels so you can stay in three-star properties, at the minimum.

One and two-star hotels can be shockingly shabby and even unsafe at times, and while there are notable exceptions to this rule, staying clear of them is probably best unless you’ve gotten word-of-mouth recommendations from someone.

Consider self-catered apartments.

While booking a self-catered apartment instead of a hotel isn’t always less expensive (judging from recent listings I’ve seen, they can be equally expensive), you might save money and hassle by having access to a kitchen and other amenities such as washing machines.

When it comes to using Air b n’ B in Paris, I advise extreme caution, having experienced some truly nightmarish places in recent times. I even recommend using the “Superhost” filter on this platform when considering options, to ensure you only make a selection from hosts who have received consistently excellent ratings.

I also advise against booking a catered apartment with few or no ratings from fellow travelers. You need assurance that you’ll be staying somewhere clean, safe and that matches the description.

Avoid the sticker shock of hotel taxes.

Many visitors are unaware of the fact that the city of Paris charges each traveler a per-night tourist tax, on top of the rates charged by hotels and presumably paid in advance. This can lead to unpleasant sticker-shock.

As this goes to press, you’ll be charged roughly 5 Euros per person per night for your stay in hotels or self-catered lodgings (excluding children). Make sure to factor this into your hotel and lodgings budget.

Need more help? See our full guide to deciding where to stay in Paris for even more helpful travel tips.

4. Buy a Paris Transport Card in Advance (With Options for City Discounts)

One of the best things you can do to save a bit of time and hassle when you first arrive in Paris? Buy a transport pass or card in advance of your stay, so you can just hop on the metro, bus or tramway as soon as you need to, rather than having to wait in long lines at metro stations and figuring out which pass to buy.

One thing to know is that individual paper tickets and “carnets” (packs of 10 metro tickets) are currently being phased out by local transport company RATP , which means that you won’t be able to buy them anymore from most stations. They’re instead being replaced by digital passes/travelcards that you can purchase from many metro stations and local tabacs (tobacco shops). You can still use paper tickets and travel passes that you may have bought on past trips, though– not to worry.

Why to Consider the Paris Visite Pass for Transport?

For visitors, I strongly recommend purchasing the Paris Visite Pass , a travelcard that gives you unlimited trips on the Metro, RER (commuter-line trains), buses and tramways. Available for 1, 2, 3 or 5 days, the pass also offers discounted entry/access to numerous popular attractions, including the Chateau de Versailles, Musée Grévin Wax Museum, and many others.

You can choose passes that extend up to 5 travel zones, which means that if you choose access to zones 1-5, you can travel for free to destinations such as Versailles and Disneyland Paris– potentially saving you money and hassle.

See more about getting around Paris and choosing tickets/travelcards and passes at the RATP site (in English). There’s also a very handy itinerary finder there that’s invaluable for plotting your course from one point to the next.

5. Don’t Try to See Everything in Just a Couple of Days

One way to guarantee exhaustion and even a form of travel-induced “burnout” during your trip? Trying to see everything in just a few days. FOMO– or “fear of missing out”, tends to drive a lot of this behavior.

I get it– you have a “bucket list”. You want to cross off every item. Don’t attempt it. Making short, superficial pilgrimages to popular spots and taking perfunctory selfies in front of them never led to a fulfilling travel experience– I’d be willing to bet a lot on that, no matter the beaming smiles you might see on heavily filtered social media posts.

Still, we understand that you’d like to get a good overview of the city. One excellent way to do that (and something I’ve been recommending for as long as I’ve written about France) is taking a sightseeing cruise of Paris on your first or second day.

These commented, 1-hour cruises show you many of the city’s biggest attractions– from Notre-Dame to the Eiffel Tower and the Tuileries– from the waterside. Sure, it’s just a glimpse, but it can help orient you, and give you a better sense of what you’d like to prioritize during your stay.

And for a real treat, consider a lunch or dinner cruise– one way to add a bit of fun and romance (however cliché) to the picture.

See our full guide to Paris sightseeing cruises and boat tours here, including info on how to book.

6. See the “Big-Ticket Attractions”– But Also Head Off the Beaten Track

While it’s more than desirable to see big-ticket Parisian sights and attractions such as the Louvre , Musée d’Orsay and Arc de Triomphe, especially during a first trip, I recommend that you take care not to spend your whole sojourn in done-to-death territory.

If you do (and this is related to what I’ve already said above) you risk getting an overly superficial and caricatural picture of the city, and not really understanding much of local life. It’s important to explore at least a few areas and places that are less commonly swarmed by tourists.

Start by exploring our Paris neighborhood guides and consider taking some time roaming in areas like Belleville : not exactly postcard-pretty, but full of rich history, street art, and fantastic food from around the world.

Next, carve out a morning or afternoon for one or more of these strange and unusual museums in Paris, or at these small, under-appreciated collections.

You can also watch this short video about off-the-beaten-track places in the capital to get a little inspiration and direct your feet.

6. Make Time to Just Meander & Explore (Don’t Over-plan Every Day)

On a related note from the last point, one of the things I think have suffered the most in the age of Instagram, Tik-Tok and endless free online travel guides like this one is that travelers often make “bucket lists” that end up dictating how they spend most of their time in a place.

But this sort of overplanning can really rob you of the possibility for spontaneous discovery and inspiring stumbling-upons. While I do recommend figuring out what you’re most interested in seeing and reserving adequate time for those things, I do encourage you to avoid the mistake of getting so caught up in ticking off items on your bucket list that you fail to really discover things on your own.

A balance is definitely in order, in other words. Take time to just meander, and you might just end up happening on places that will linger in your memory far more than your pilgrimages to pretty places you saw on Instagram will. When you make a city your own in this way, it increases the joy of looking back on the experiences gained through travel– at least in my humble experience.

Familiarize Yourself With Paris’ 20 Arrondissements

To make the task more manageable, I suggest picking a general area of Paris you’re interested in seeing, familiarizing yourself roughly with its main attractions, then heading to the area and letting yourself go into “semi-random wander” mode.

You can of course still plan to see several key places in the area in question, but also set aside time to head up quiet little paths, poke into a neighborhood café that looks charming, or venture into a quiet square you’d never heard of (like the one pictured above, just blocks from popular sights like the Centre Georges Pompidou ).

See our guide to the 20 arrondissements (districts) of Paris and what to see and do in each for ideas on where to head. Then go explore.

7. Take a Walking Tour or Two (Including Free Ones)

One of the best ways to get acquainted with Paris’ dizzyingly rich neighborhoods (other than exploring them freely; see #6 just above) is to take one or more walking tours. Whether you’re interested in city history, architecture, food and wine, shopping or something else, there are multitudes of great tours out there– many of which are free.

I suggest starting with the free walking tours from Discover Walks , a company that offers 90-minute tours with knowledgable guides (these are tip-supported tours, so do please consider offering a reasonable tip at the end). The company currently offers free tours of Montmartre, the Left Bank/Latin Quarter, the Marais and a Paris “hidden gems” walk.

Meanwhile, a team of volunteer “greeters” from the Paris Tourist office also offers numerous guided walks around the capital. See more info at this page.

For city history and architecture tours, I strongly recommend (and have experienced) ones from Context Travel and Entree to Black Paris/Discover Paris.

For food and pastry tours, meanwhile, Paris by Mouth offers some excellent guided walks of patisseries, bakeries, cheese shops and other gourmet stops, while Eating Europe offers in-depth gourmet walks that bring together delicious tastings with observations on architecture and history.

GetyourGuide also boasts a variety of intriguing options, from pastry & chocolate tours to walks themed around the artists and writers of St-Germain.  You can browse and book tours with them here.

8. Watch Out For Tourist Traps & Common Scams

Next up, it’s always a good idea to learn about some of the most common tourist traps and scams to avoid in Paris, from terrible and overpriced restaurants to taxi rip-offs and ATM dangers

Avoiding these will not only make your trip more pleasant– it’ll also help keep you safe from common (non-violent) crimes and ensure you don’t see your hard-earned travel budget unexpectedly drained.

First, read our full, frequently updated safety tips for Paris, paying particular attention to sections on avoiding pickpocekts, ATM scammers and other common dangers for tourists.

Then read our top tips on how to avoid tourist traps and scammers in the French capital. It includes our full advice on steering clear of restaurants and other establishments that attempt to lure tourists in, but typically offer terrible and overly expensive fare.

And finally, if you’re taking a cab to or from the airport, learn how to avoid overcharging by unofficial taxis. It can be so tempting (especially after a long flight) to just hop in the first one that pulls up to the curb. But trust us: you don’t want to do that.

9. Familiarize Yourself With French Restaurant Types- & Book a Few Good Tables

A common source of jitters (or at least timid feelings) for many travelers is not quite understanding how to navigate many situations in French restaurants. Depending on the format- a casual bistro versus a high-end “gastronomic” restaurant, for instance– the rules around ordering, seating, paying and even etiquette can differ.

It can also be mind-boggling to understand how various restaurant types offer wildly different opening times, menu options, ambiences and dining styles.

Before traveling, I recommend familiarizing yourself with the most common French restaurant types – from brasseries to bistros and “bouchons”– and learning more about what to expect in each.

Another piece of advice I have is to avoid randomly booking too many meals out. Do some research ( at this site and even more food-centric sites like Paris by Mouth ) to choose a few places you’d really like to try for lunch or dinner.

{Related: Some of Paris’ Finest Traditional French Brasseries}

Then, if you can, book well in advance to avoid disappointment. Trendy places like Septime have months-long waiting lists (I would know as I still haven’t managed to snag a table there…)

10. Save Money on Eating Out & Sightseeing

For most of us, budgeting is going to be one of the biggest concerns before and during a stay in Paris (and anywhere, for that matter). I can’t lie: the French capital is a relatively expensive city, and things can really add up if you’re not carefully watching your budget.

{Avoid These Mistakes When Planning a Trip to France}

Your budget can quickly be eviscerated by eating out in formal restaurants too often. In addition to considering staying in a self-catered apartment (see point #3), I recommend aiming to make every second or third meal out more casual.

To make sure you stay in the black and avoid the stress of a rapidly depleting bank balance mid-trip, do these things:

Eat out on the cheap.

Start by noshing on some delicious street food. From scrumptious falafel sandwiches to savory and sweet crepes, Vietnamese-style banh mi , burgers and sweet treats, there’s no shortage of fantastic, inexpensive fare to enjoy from local vendors and takeout places.

See our full guide to the best street food in Paris for where to head (and avoid the bad stuff).

In the warmer months, assemble a typical Parisian picnic composed of fresh baguette, cheeses, fruit from the market and perhaps a bottle of sparkling wine (if you indulge).

You can pick up some incredibly fresh and delicious, inexpensive components for a déjeuner sur l’herbe (lunch on the grass) by stocking up at a local bakery, supermarket, and/or from farmer’s markets like the marvelous Marché d’Aligre.

Finally, see our complete guide to eating out on a tight budget f or more tips on how to slash your food spending while in Paris.

Save money on popular attractions.

Next, if you know you want to see more than a few popular museums, monuments and other attractions during your stay, it can make sense to buy a discount card such as the Paris Pass, which offers access to over 75 attractions and tours in the capital, and is available for 2, 3, 4 or 6 days.

If you love museums and want to see more than 3 or 4 of them, meanwhile, the Paris Museum Pass can offer good value.

{Buy the 2 or 4-day Paris Museum Pass in advance with Viator}

A word of warning about these passes, though: they may not be worthwhile if you don’t use them a lot . So think carefully about whether you’ll take full advantage of them before purchasing.

Meanwhile, all of the museums in Paris operated by the city offer free access for all to permanent exhibitions, so make sure to check out our guide to free museums in Paris. And of course, there are countless free things to do in the capital, from gorgeous parks and gardens to riverside strolls and medieval churches.

See my guide (at TripSavvy) to free activities, sights and attractions in the city .

11. Think About Your Mobility (& Plan Accordingly)

I’ve had friends and family from pedestrian-centric cities like New York comment on how exhausting Paris can be. They’ve noted that it demands an almost athletic level of mobility to comfortably use the metro, walk around for hours at a time and navigate cramped sidewalks and cobblestoned streets.

I can’t lie: it can be a challenge for anyone who isn’t accustomed to walking around everywhere, or for those with disabilities or mobility issues of any kind.

Before you go, think carefully about how you plan to get around. Will you primarily use the Metro to get from place to place? Will you stay in the city center so you can easily get to most of the places on your list by foot? Will you take the bus to avoid stairs as much as possible?

Paris is famously not the most accessible city, and despite recent efforts to address problems like an absence of ramps in too many public places, curbs that make wheelchair use difficult when crossing streets, and mostly inaccessible metro stations, change is slow to come.

However, many people who require accessible access to public transportation are pleasantly surprised to find that, once mastered, Paris’ extensive network of city buses offers a great way to zip around the city . Tramways are also accessible, but skirt around the outskirts of the capital rather than serving the center.

Meanwhile, taking guided bus tours and even commented boat tours can be a great way to cover lots of ground while giving your tired feed a rest.

The bottom line is that you can avoid feeling burned out (or frustrated) during your trip by thinking through mobility issues and transport options before you go.

See more about visiting Paris with disabilities or limited mobility in our full guide.

12. If You’re Traveling Solo or With Kids, Read This

If you’re traveling alone or as a family with kids in tow, your needs (and limitations) are likely to be pretty specific. For instance, if you’re flying solo you may well not want to walk around by yourself after dark, or eat dinner in restaurants that are too quiet (it can feel a bit like there’s a spotlight on you.) Women and other more vulnerable solo visitors will also need to take special care to read up on safety tips for Paris.

If you’re contemplating heading to the French capital on your own (or are already there), read our full tips on solo travel to Paris.

Meanwhile, if you’re visiting with young kids (or even teenagers), you may find that the usual advice on how to get around, what to see and tips for eating out go out the window in the face of picky eaters, tired little feet and even a frustrating lack of changing tables.

You’ll need to pace yourself accordingly, and find plenty of ways to keep little ones stimulated and happy.

To start, see our advice above on mobility and accessibility, to decide on whether getting around by bus, tramway or taxi might be the best way to go, at least some of the time.

Read my full guide to visiting Paris with babies and toddlers — including sections on where to stay, what to do, and where to find baby changing tables in the capital (with a clickable map).

Next, read up on some of the best museums for kids — family-friendly collections that should keep adults and younger family members interested. Then peruse our guide to the most beautiful parks and gardens in the capital- – many boasting bright and stimulating playgrounds, puppet theatres and other activities for young travelers.

Read my guide (at TripSavvy) to eating out with picky young eaters in the capital , and see this guide to the best things to do with kids in Paris (at Time Out).

13. Learn About French Etiquette (& Some Basic Travel Expressions)

One of the things that makes first-time travelers to Paris bite their nails is the worry that they won’t be able to communicate effectively with locals, and won’t understand or be able to use proper French etiquette.

While I want to reassure you that people tend to be a lot more relaxed these days than they perhaps once were about formalities, it’s true that observing a few basic rules of politesse (polite etiquette) can go a long way in smoothing your interactions– and perhaps even make you a friend or two.

Read our French Etiquette 101 guide f or everything you need to know, including polite greetings and questions in French, eating out and table manners, interacting with servers and others who might assist you, and meeting new people.

Also see our piece on some of the most enduring French stereotypes — and why to ditch them before your trip so you can engage in more meaningful ways with the people you meet and interact with.

14. Take a Day Trip or Two

Last but certainly not least, if you have more than three or four days at your disposal, I highly recommend taking a day trip (or two) outside the city. Like any major metropolis, Paris can be noisy, crowded and occasionally overwhelming, especially if you stay in more crowded arrondissements closer to the center. Not to mention that France’s diversity is too alluring to limit yourself to the capital. Burgundy, Champagne, and the edge of Normandy are all just an hour or two away.

( Book tickets & tours for popular Paris attractions & day trips here (via Tiqets.com )

If you’re worried about the expense and hassle of renting a car, not to fret: there are numerous superb destinations easily accessible by train and/or shuttle, from Monet’s Gardens at Giverny to the Champagne region and Chartres Cathedral.

See our suggestions for easy day trips from Paris by train here — and go take in some fresh air and new scenery.

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Disclaimer: This post contains a few affiliate links. If you book flights, tours, or other products through these it comes at no additional cost to you, but does help fund more free, in-depth features like this one at Paris Unlocked. Thank you.

Courtney Traub is the Founder and Editor of Paris Unlocked. She’s a longtime Paris resident who now divides her time (as well as she can manage) between the French capital and Norwich, UK. Co-author of the 2012 Michelin Green Guide to Northern France & the Paris Region, she has been interviewed as an expert on Paris and France by the BBC, Australian Broadcasting Corporation, Le Figaro, Matador Network and other publications. Courtney has also written and reported stories for media outlets including Radio France Internationale, The Christian Science Monitor, Women’s Wear Daily and The Associated Press. In addition to going down various rabbit holes of curiosity when it comes to French culture, history, food and art, Courtney is a scholar of literature and cultural history whose essays and reviews have appeared in various forums.

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Paris Unlocked

• The Ultimate Guide to Visiting Paris for the First Time

Let’s be completely honest: You can either love or hate Paris. There is no in between. I’ve heard so many mixed-up reviews before visiting Paris for the first time and most of them were really negative. People told me that Paris is dirty and unsafe, and the French people are really rude.

But let me tell you something: after visiting Paris twice already, I seriously have no clue where are all this negativity is coming from! Paris is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful cities in Europe so don’t let others discourage you to visit!

Not convinced yet? Just go through this post and I’m sure by the time you finish you’ll be already searching for flight tickets to Paris!

* Disclosure: This post contains a few affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through my link. *

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Table of Contents

Useful Info for Visiting Paris for the First Time

Paris is the capital city of France, located in the northern central part of the country. The city is divided by the river Seine and it also includes two islands. Île Saint-Louis and Île de la Cité which is the oldest part of Paris and also home to one of the most famous landmarks in France, the Notre-Dame Cathedral.

Paris is home to more than 2.1 million people. If you’re visiting Paris for the first time this might surprise you, but Paris is a really diverse city when it comes to demographics.

About 80% of the population was actually born in France, the rest are immigrants mainly from Asia and Africa. The first wave of international migration started back in the 19th century and Paris has always been a popular choice amongst immigrants ever since.

Paris is one of the top dream destinations in the world so it’s no wonder that tourism is one of the main income sources of the city. Paris is not only popular among tourists but it’s also a major hub for business travel.

According to a survey by Statista , Paris received 19.1 million international overnight visitors in 2018 which makes it the second most visited city in Europe after London.

The cathedral of Notre Dame used to be the most visited tourist attraction in Paris but unfortunately since the fire in 2019 caused serious damages to the building, it’s not possible to visit it at the moment.

The other most visited attractions are the Sacre-Coeur Basilica located on the top of the Montmartre hill, the world-famous Eiffel Tower, and the Arc de Triomphe, located at the end of Champs-Élysées.

The official language of Paris is French. I bet you’ve already heard stories that French people don’t really like to speak English and while this is mostly true for the rest of France, English is actually widely spoken in Paris.

So you don’t have to stress if you don’t speak French, English will do just fine. However, most of the restaurants only have French menus and everyone prefers having conversations in French so knowing a few French words or phrases always comes in handy.

Here are the most useful French phrases for travelers:

• Bonjour – Hello (used from morning until dusk)
• Bonsoir – Good evening
• Oui – Yes
• Non – No
• S’il vous plait – Please
• Merci (beaucoup) – Thank you (very much)
• Excusez-moi – Excuse me
• Au revoir – Goodbye

Currency & ATMs

Like in many other European countries, the Euro (€) is the official currency in France. You can easily find ATMs anywhere in the city and credit cards are widely accepted. However, there is usually a minimum limit for credit card payments, like €10-15, therefore it’s wise to always have some cash in your pocket as well.

France is part of the European Union and the Schengen Area. That means if your country of origin is also a member of the Schengen Area you can enter France without a visa. There are many more countries that can enter visa-free for a short-term stay, like the US, UK, or Australia. You can check the full list on the Schengen Visa Info Website .

Best Time to Visit Paris

Paris is definitely one of the most beautiful cities in France and it’s a true year-round destination. Seriously, there is something magical in each and every season, like cherry blossoms in spring or the colorful leaves in autumn.

Although many people choose the summer months for their first trip to Paris, the other seasons can be a great or an even better choice, depending on your interests. In the below sections you can learn more about each season with its pros and cons so you can easily decide which one is the perfect choice for you.

During springtime (from March to May) the maximum temperature is constantly rising from 12°C (54°F) in March up to 20°C (68°F) in May. The weather is still unpredictable at the beginning of spring and light rain can occur almost any time during the season. Be prepared with an umbrella or a raincoat!

Late spring is one of the best times to visit Paris , especially because of the blossom season. The whole city will be covered with colorful flowers and green plants, so a beautiful backdrop is guaranteed!

The summer period (from June to August) is normally not so hot in Paris, the average temperature ranges around 25-30°C (77-86°F). Generally, this is the driest period of the year so with a bit of luck you won’t see any rain clouds above your head. The days are really long, the sun rises around 6 am and sets around 10 pm.

Although the weather is perfect for strolling around the city, be prepared for huge crowds. Paris is always crowded with travelers but summer is the absolute peak season for tourism. If you don’t tolerate the crowd too well, it’s best to avoid the summer months.

The autumn months (from September to November) tend to be windy and wet in general. During this period the maximum temperature gradually decreases from 21°C (70°F) in September to 11°C (52°F) in November. Make sure to pack some warm, waterproof clothes!

Despite the challenges in the weather, autumn – especially early autumn – is a really great choice, especially if you’re visiting Paris for the first time.

In early autumn locals are starting to return from their summer holidays and the tourist crowds are getting thinner and thinner. But the best thing about autumn is definitely the colorful fall foliage which makes Paris even more magical than it already is.

Paris is often called the City of Light and there is no better season to experience the sparkling city lights than winter! The days are slowly getting shorter, in the darkest period the sun only rises around 8.30 am and sets already at 5 pm which means you will have plenty of time to adore the festive lights and decoration.

If you love Christmas decorations, you’re going to love Paris during the holidays as it’s always beautifully decorated. You can also find some Christmas markets in the city – don’t forget to visit the Tuileries Garden during the holidays where you can find one of the best Christmas markets in Europe .

The average temperature ranges around 5-8°C (41-46°F) during the day, which makes Paris a lot warmer than other European cities.

Although Paris is really gorgeous when the whole city is covered with white snow, unfortunately, snow is not so common in winter but you can expect some rainfalls in exchange. If you are planning to visit Paris in winter, here’s a guide about  what to wear in Paris in winter .

How Much Time Do You Need to Spend in Paris

Spending one day in Paris is definitely not enough, however, if you plan your itinerary well, you can still see a big chunk of the city. And to be honest, seeing only a few of the most famous sites and experiencing a little Parisian vibe is a lot better than having nothing. So if you have only one day to spend in Paris, I’d say go for it!

If you’re visiting Paris for the first time, it’s best to allow yourself at least 4 days in Paris to be able to properly explore the main sights. In 4 days you can cover most of the must-see spots, visit a few museums and taste a lot of French sweets.

Paris is packed with many amazing museums like Musée du Louvre or Musée d’Orsay so if you’re a true museum lover, 4 days in Paris would definitely not be enough for you. In this case, it’s best to stay in Paris for 5-7 days, depending on how many museums you plan to visit.

If you have some extra days in Paris, make sure to do a few day trips. Disneyland is one of the best day trips from Paris , even if you are an adult you will absolutely love it!

There are actually two different parks right next to each other: Disneyland Park and Walt Disney Studios Park. You can easily spend there 2-3 full days if you plan to try every ride, but both parks can be visited within a day as well.

Versailles is known as one of the most beautiful castles in Europe and it’s another famous day trip opportunity from Paris. It’s really easy to reach, it takes around 30 minutes by RER. Half a day is enough for visiting the Palace of Versailles but you can easily spend a full day there, especially if you want to visit the city of Versailles as well.

Getting Around Paris

My favorite way of getting around in a new city is by foot. I love strolling around and getting lost on the streets! I truly believe this is the absolute best way to get to know the city. Paris is a totally walkable city, most of the must-see spots are close to each other and easy to reach.

That said, Paris is a big city so if you want to make the most of your time it’s inevitable to use some other ways of transportation. That’s where public transportation comes in handy and luckily Paris has a fantastic public transportation system!

Paris has 16 different metro lines with more than 300 metro stations. That means you can reach practically everything with a metro! If this wouldn’t be enough, there are 4 tram lines and countless bus lines as well.

Of course, you can find many taxis and ride-hailing companies such as Uber around the city but with a public transportation system like this, you won’t really need them.

If you need to venture further away from the city you can use RER, which is a train network with 5 different lines. You can easily reach for example the Charles de Gaulle Airport, Versailles, and Disneyland with RER.

Where to Stay in Paris

Paris is not only one of the most beautiful cities in France but it’s also one of the most visited ones in whole Europe. Therefore you will find a wide selection of accommodations in the city, starting from cheaper hostels and guesthouses to 5-star hotels and luxury apartments.

Are you dreaming of waking up to the view of the Eiffel Tower? Then you need to check out my posts about the best apartments in Paris with Eiffel Tower view and the best Paris hotels with Eiffel Tower view .

Paris is divided into 20 different neighborhoods, otherwise known as arrondissements. The best arrondissement to stay in Paris completely depends on what you want to do as a tourist and how much time you have in hand.

If you’re visiting Paris for the first time, you will probably like to stay near the Seine River (1st to 7th arrondissement), where the major tourist attractions are located.

Each neighborhood has different characteristics, below you can read about them in more detail.

Louvre (1st Arr.)

The 1st district of Paris is a real tourist heaven. You can find many of the most famous landmarks here like Musée du Louvre, Palais Royal, or Sainte Chapelle.

If you wish to stay within walking distance from them, this is totally your place! On the other hand, this is one of the most expensive districts of Paris so if you’re more of a budget traveler, it’s best to find yourself another area to stay in.

BEST HOTELS IN THE LOUVRE ARRONDISSEMENT

• Luxury: Maison Albar Hotels Le Pont-Neuf
• Mid-range: L’Empire Paris
• Budget: Hotel Residence Des Arts

Eiffel Tower (7th Arr.)

The 7th district is also one of the most touristic areas of Paris. The Eiffel tower is located in this district along with many great museums, world-class restaurants, and high-end shopping places.

If you are planning to book a place from where you can see the Iron Lady, this is the district where you will find plenty of hotels with Eiffel Tower views . Of course, all of this comes with a higher price tag as well, so it’s definitely not a good place for a budget traveler.

BEST HOTELS IN THE EIFFEL TOWER ARRONDISSEMENT

• Luxury: Hôtel Pont Royal
• Mid-range: Hôtel La Comtesse
• Budget: Hôtel Eiffel Turenne

Le Marais (3rd and 4th Arr.)

Le Marais is a really trendy and lively area in Paris. It’s not an independent district, one half of it is located in the 3rd district and the other half is in the 4th district. If you’re visiting Paris for the first time and you’re looking for great nightlife with many clubs and bars, Le Marais is the perfect choice for you!

BEST HOTELS IN LE MARAIS

• Luxury: Le Pavillon de la Reine & Spa
• Mid-range: Hotel Saint-Louis Marais
• Budget: Austin’s Arts Et Metiers Hotel

Bastille (11th Arr.)

If you are a real foodie then Bastille is the best choice for you. The 11th district of Paris is packed with amazing restaurants and you can find practically everything from trendy hip cafes to expensive Michelin-star restaurants.

Bastille is located just outside the central area, therefore prices are more affordable but you can still reach the city center within minutes. If you don’t want to spend a fortune on accommodation but you still want to stay close to the central area, Bastille is the perfect choice for you.

On my first trip to Paris, I stayed in the Bastille area at Hotel Paris Bastille Boutet and absolutely loved everything about the hotel and the area as well. If you’re interested to know more about the hotel, here’s my complete review of Hotel Paris Bastille Boutet !

BEST HOTELS IN BASTILLE

• Luxury: Hôtel Paris Bastille Boutet
• Mid-range: Oh la la ! Hotel Bar Paris Bastille
• Budget: Hotel Alhambra

Montmartre (18th Arr.)

The district of Montmartre is quite far from the other main attractions, however, if you want to experience the real Parisian vibe this is definitely your place!

The 18th district is full of charming cobble-stoned streets and cute multi-colored houses and the view is absolutely amazing from the top of the hill. The price of the hotels are much more reasonable so it’s also a good choice if you travel on a budget.

BEST HOTELS IN MONTMARTRE

• Luxury: Maison Souquet
• Mid-range: Mercure Paris Pigalle Sacre Coeur
• Budget: Hotel de Flore

Best Things to Do in Paris

See the iconic eiffel tower.

If you’re visiting Paris for the first time, seeing the Eiffel Tower must be on your itinerary. No pictures do justice to how incredible the Iron Lady is in real life! You can see it from almost everywhere in Paris and it’s really fun to search for different views and angles. Don’t forget to go back after nightfall to adore the sparkling lights dancing on the tower!

If you want to know where to find the best views of the Eiffel Tower, check out my article about the most instagrammable places in Paris which includes 9 different locations from where you can get an amazing view of the Iron Lady!

Since it is the most iconic landmark in Paris the surrounding area can get pretty crowded. Luckily Paris is not just about the Eiffel Tower and there are many other interesting places to see! You might be also interested to read a guide about sightseeing in Paris beyond the Eiffel Tower .

Explore the incredible artworks in the Louvre

To be honest with you I’m not much of a museum kind of girl and it’s really rare when I decide to actually go to a museum. But visiting the Louvre is definitely a must-do in Paris!

The whole place is extraordinary and not just the artworks, but the internal design of the museum as well. I’m really glad we decided to visit in the end, it was such a bucket list experience!

Visit at least one of the amazing city parks

Paris has many gorgeous city parks: Jardin des Tuileries, Jardin des Plantes, Le Jardin du Luxembourg, just to name a few. All parks are free to enter and every park has its own characteristic. If you need a break from city life, strolling around the beautiful gardens is definitely one of the best things to do in Paris .

Get lost on the buzzing streets of Montmartre

Montmartre is one of the most charming and romantic districts of Paris. The area is full of cute narrow alleys, talented street artists, and amazing cafes and restaurants. I was absolutely obsessed with Montmartre, it has such a strong Parisian vibe!

You definitely need to visit the Sacré-Coeur and the Moulin Rouge but apart from that, getting lost on the buzzing streets is one of the best things you can do in Montmartre. Make sure not to miss the Sinking House of Montmartre, one of the most unique hidden gems in Paris .

Shop til you drop on Champs-Elysées

Almost every big city has its own world-famous street that is packed with high-end fashion shops, luxury boutiques, and fancy restaurants. This is the Champs-Elysées for Paris.

The avenue is 2 km (1.2 miles) long and it runs from the Place de la Concorde to the majestic Arc de Triomphe. Don’t worry if you don’t have the fortune to spend, it’s still an amazing place for window-shopping and admiring the architecture.

Eat as many Parisian sweets as you can

Croissants, pain au chocolate, crepes, macarons, madeleines.. Do I have to continue or are you just as hungry as I am now? Ditch your diet for a few days while you are in Paris because these Parisian sweets are to die for! There are countless cute cafes around the city with many different desserts to try.

Try to visit as many as you can, you won’t regret it! I know it sounds like a cliché but it would be a big mistake to skip it. If this will be your first trip to Paris, you might be interested in reading a list of the common mistakes of a first-time visitor .

Planning a trip to Paris?

Then you might want to take a look at all our other travel guides about Paris. I promise, they are just as awesome as this article was!

Hotel Guides:

• Top 8 Best Arrondissements to Stay in Paris
• Top 21 Best Hotels in Paris with Eiffel Tower Views
• 23 Best Apartments & Airbnbs in Paris with Eiffel Tower View
• Stylish Parisian Stay: Hotel Paris Bastille Boutet Hotel Review

Travel Guides:

• One Day in Paris Itinerary: How to See the Best of Paris in a Day
• The Perfect Paris in 4 Days Itinerary for First Timers
• Top 25 Most Instagrammable Places in Paris
• 12 Best Day Trips from Paris You Can’t Miss
• 155 Amazing Paris Captions for Instagram (Quotes, Puns & More!)

Other Amazing Destinations in France: Alsace | French Riviera | Provence

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4 thoughts on “The Ultimate Guide to Visiting Paris for the First Time”

Eiffel tower is such a nice place to explore for everyone. I am from Delhi, India and i love to read your blog everyday. I have visited 2 times to this place and every time it is the same and beautiful. Love your blog.

Thank you so much Srishti, I’m so happy that you enjoyed reading this post!

What a great guide!! I love Paris 🙂 Brianna

Thanks so much, I’m so happy that you liked it Brianna!

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Ultimate Paris Travel Checklist: 10 Must-Know Tips for travelers

You made a big decision, and you’re finally going on this trip to Paris you always wanted, congrats! And now it is time to plan your trip so you can prepare for this experience. After many travel adventures throughout France, we created this 10-item Paris Travel checklist to help you get ready to have a blast.

1.  Booking Flights and Accommodations in Paris:

Secure affordable flights and centrally located accommodations by booking well in advance. Explore options near popular attractions like Le Marais or the Louvre. We gathered our  preferred hotel options for Paris  that would be great options for a stay in the city. 

The cheapest time to travel to France is November & February. The most expensive time to travel to Paris is May-September. The same is true for hotel rooms. So the earliest you can book your accommodations & flights, the better. The sweet spot is usually between 90 and 28 days for us.

2.  Budget Planning for Your Paris Adventure:

Create a detailed budget, including airfare, accommodation, daily expenses, and activities to help manage your finances.

For accommodations, you should expect €200-300 for a hotel room per day for a 3-star to 4-star hotel. For meals, €50 to €100 per person per day. For transportation, €10 to €25 per day and for attractions, about €15 to €100 per attractions.

3. Prepare your phone and get data coverage:

While traveling, your phone will often be your best asset, looking at your travel notes, directions, and communication with family or people on site. However, counting on your data plan might not be as easy, this is why we recommend using an eSim that will allow you to have data at no extra cost.

We recommend the following solutions:

Airolo Travel Sim Card 20GB of 4GB of Data https://bit.ly/AiroloFranceeSim20GB

Orange Travel Sim Card 12GB of 4G of Data https://bit.ly/OrangeTravelSim12GB

Orange Travel Sim Card 30GB of 4G Data https://bit.ly/OrangeTravelSim30GB

4.  Language and Communication Essentials :

Familiarize yourself with basic French phrases or download translation apps to facilitate communication during your trip. 

Download your Restaurant Ordering French Words Cheat Sheet (Free) to help you in restaurants. But note that most Parisians in the tourist areas speak English. Sometimes, not very well, but usually better than your French.

5.  Packing Smartly for Paris Weather:

Check the weather forecast for your travel dates and pack accordingly, considering comfortable walking shoes, versatile clothing, and any special items for planned activities.

Paris can be warm and sunny in the summer, but it can also be cold and rainy in the winter.

6.  Power Adapters and Voltage Converters for Electronics:

Bring the necessary power adapters and voltage converters to ensure your electronic devices stay charged throughout your trip. Here’s a  selection to find the perfect converter  to your needs.

7.  Crafting a Paris Itinerary with Must-See Sites:

Plan an exciting itinerary that includes iconic Parisian attractions such as the Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and the charming Montmartre neighborhood. Consider pre-booking skip-the-line tickets to save time. Paris has a lot to offer, to help you prepare, we spent countless hours crafting  our very own Paris guide .

Watch this video to find out how long each major attraction takes for a visit.

8.  Savoring Parisian Cuisine and Dining Experiences:

Immerse yourself in French gastronomy by researching and reserving tables at authentic bistros and restaurants. Don’t miss out on trying classic French delicacies like croissants, escargot, and delectable macarons. To help you find the best options, we gathered our  food favorites in the following guides .

9.  Safety Precautions for a Worry-Free Journey:

Prioritize safety by staying vigilant in crowded areas and keeping photocopies of important documents in a separate location. Ensure you have any required vaccinations and carry essential medications. We created a dedicated  video you must watch to be worry-free  on your journey.

And if you’re concerned with pickpockets , watch this video to learn how to outsmart them

10. Plan your transit from the airport to the city

There are multiple ways to get from the airport to Paris downtown and after a long flight, it’s better you have it all planned out. We detailed the  four ways to get from CDG Airport to Paris  downtown and the two most common ways are taking the RER Train or  booking a chauffeur .

When it comes down to having a driver, we would recommend the no-hassle experience of Welcome Pickups as they’re worldwide and professional. The pros are English-speaking drivers, they’ll wait for you at the gate and monitor your flight, flat fee that you got in advance. You can check what it would cost you by following this link .

Remember that Paris is a diverse and vibrant city with a lot to offer. While it’s great to plan, also allows for some flexibility to explore and discover hidden gems along the way. Enjoy your trip!

By following this checklist, you’ll be well-prepared for an unforgettable trip to Paris, tailored to your interests and needs. Enjoy your adventure in the City of Light!

Tips for First-Time Travelers to Paris :

• Buy a Navigo Pass when you arrive in the city for unlimited travel on public transportation.
• Don’t be afraid to ask for help from locals. Parisians are generally very friendly and helpful.
• Take your time and enjoy the city. Paris is a beautiful city with something to offer everyone.

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50+ Practical Paris Travel Tips for First-time Visitors

Paris is a popular vacation destination for families, couples, and even solo travelers. Visitors have come surging back into the City of Lights and if you are planning your first trip to Paris , you are not going to want to sleep on these practical Paris travel tips.

It is too easy to get things wrong on a trip to Paris, in ways that can end up really screwing up your dream vacation. But I don’t want that to happen to you, so take a few minutes to read the tips below. I’ve conveniently broken them down into categories of topics that you need to know.

After you have digested these important Paris travel tips, check out my helpful Paris planning checklist , which will walk you through a timeline for planning your trip to Paris. Next, read through my 5 days in Paris itinerary for ideas on how to structure your own trip. Wondering how much this is going to cost? I’ve got you covered on that too with a useful Paris trip budget breakdown.

Paris Travel Tips

Note: This post may contain affiliate links. If you click a link and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission. All opinions are my own.

Tips for Getting Around Paris

• Getting from the airport to central Paris is easy with either a cab or Uber. A taxi will cost 55-60 euro.
• If you want a taxi in Paris, you should find the closest taxi stand, as you can’t hail them in the street like you would in NYC. Just make sure you have the address you want to go to either printed out or on your phone to show the driver if you don’t speak French.
• Uber is fairly easy to get in Paris, but you may need to wait 5-15 minutes for one to arrive so build in that time.
• If you are worried about transportation strikes in Paris or don’t want to wait for a taxi at the airport, you can also arrange a car service through Welcome Pickups . I have used this service in multiple cities and never had any issues.
• Metro is one of the easiest ways to get around Paris. For a single ride you can use the automated machines in most Metro stations to purchase a ticket. Each person in your party must have their own ticket. Once you select English (or your language of choice), the screens are straightforward and easy to navigate. The machines dispense a paper ticket, which you scan or insert in the turnstiles to get to the station platforms. SAVE that ticket until you depart the station at your destination as you could be asked to show it.
• If you plan on taking the Metro frequently during your stay, you can look into buying a Navigo Easy Pass that can be purchased for 2 euros and loaded (or reloaded) with rides. Just keep in mind that each traveler needs their own card (you can swipe one card three times for three people in your party.)
• Trains to Versailles or the airport require a different kind of ticket. This is a great resource about the Paris Metro and trains.
• Since transportation in Paris can get interrupted by strikes, protests, etc., it is helpful to stay in a central location and plan on getting around on your own two feet most days.
• When leaving Paris, if you are flying out of Charles de Gaulle airport, leave yourselves plenty of time to get through the airport. Three hours is recommended and you may very well need it!

Tips for Where to Stay in Paris

• Paris is divided into 20 arrondissements or neighborhoods. The inner circle, or those closest to the center of the city’s main attractions, are the lower numbers. Start your accommodations search in that inner circle.
• For an authentic Parisian experience that is still in the heart of everything, I greatly enjoyed our stay in the Saint Germain des Prés neighborhood in the 6th arrondissement on the Left Bank at the Hotel Le Relais Saint Germain .
• Another area with a neighborhood feel with plenty of restaurants and shops without being too terribly touristy is Le Marais in the 4th arrondissement.
• If you are looking for an apartment, you will likely find the most choices close to the Eiffel Tower in the 7th arrondissement.
• When traveling with a family, you will be able to save money by renting an apartment versus getting two hotel rooms or a family suite. There are limited options on Airbnb because of crackdowns in the city, but I have written a guide on how to find a holiday apartment in Paris (and what to look for.)

Tips for Eating in Restaurants in Paris

• The first thing to keep in mind when eating out in Paris is that you will want to make reservations in advance. Many restaurants allow you to book through their websites, or you can use a platform like The Fork , or request help from your concierge. Some popular spots like Angelina’s can book up months in advance. In general, a couple of weeks to a couple of days in advance is fine.
• I have included many restaurant recommendations near popular attractions in my 5 day Paris itinerary.
• When you walk in, be sure to greet the host or maitre d’ with a smile and “Bonjour” or “Bon Soir” in the evening. Eye contact and greetings are very important in France and if you don’t do this, you will be seen as rude.
• If you do not have a reservation, you will need to ask for a table with “Bonjour. Avez-vous une table pour deux (trois/quatre…)?” Don’t worry though, most will quickly switch to English unless you speak excellent French.
• Tipping is not the same as we expect in the USA, which you may notice in the level of service. For good service, consider leaving 5-10 percent of the bill. Just keep in mind that you can’t easily add the gratuity to a credit card payment, so you will need to carry some change or small bills.
• Lunch in Parisian restaurants typically runs from 12-2 pm and dinner from 7:30-10 pm, but brasseries are open usually from 11 am until midnight or thereabout so if you need to eat at an odd time, look for a local brasserie. Also, keep in mind that boulangeries may close during the afternoon.
• Many restaurants are closed on Sundays and on holidays such as July 14th. You will also find many restaurants or shops that close in August while the owners go on holiday.
• Bread will often be delivered to your table and there may be an additional charge for this. However, this bread is usually intended for mopping up sauces and such so it is not accompanied by butter or olive oil (or a bread plate — it is ok to put it right on the table.)
• You will need to ask for water and if you want tap water, be sure to specify “une carafe d’eau” for a pitcher of water. They may still bring you bottled water that you will have to pay for and if you want to make a fuss you can send it back and ask again for a carafe of water or just let it go like we did.
• Parisians take their time at meals so you will not be rushed away, but this also means that you will need to ask for the bill “l’addition, s’il vous plait”.
• Because the culture is to sit and relax over coffee or meals, you may be hard-pressed to find a coffee to go unless you stop into Starbucks. Instead, head inside and stand at the bar to quickly drink your coffee.
• One last note, Parisians enjoy relaxing meals and don’t appreciate fellow diners that are loud. So keep the voices low and save the funny stories for later. When traveling with rambunctious kids, look for more bustling bistros and brasseries where noise is more easily overlooked (or pack picnics!)
• Most restaurants accept credit cards and you can easily tap or insert your chip card into the handheld terminals that your server will bring to the table. Just make sure that you use a card that doesn’t charge international transaction fees and when asked whether you want to be charged in Euros or Dollars, always choose the local currency.

Tips for Visiting Museums and Attractions

• Here is where your vacation can go sideways if you don’t plan ahead. Many museums, such as the Louvre, require pre-booked timed-entry tickets.
• Some museums require timed-entry tickets but you can still purchase tickets on-site if they are available, such as the Musée de l’Orangerie.
• You need to check the opening days and hours for all museums and attractions. For example, Versailles, the Musée d’Orsay, and the Musée Rodin are closed on Mondays. Meanwhile, the Louvre, Musée de l’Orangerie, Pompidou Centre, and others are closed on Tuesdays.
• Monday is the busiest day at the Louvre Museum so you may want to schedule your visit for a different day if possible.
• If you purchase a timed-entry ticket to the Eiffel Tower, you can save yourself hours of waiting in line just to buy tickets (if they are even available.) Ticket sales usually open up 90 days in advance and do sell out quickly during the high season.
• Even though children are free at museums, you may need to show ID to prove their age so always carry a copy of their passport.
• If you will be visiting many museums within a 2-4 day time period, it may make sense to invest in the Paris Museum Pass. You can buy these online and save them to your smartphone or print it out online. This is the best option so that you have the code you need to reserve a timed-entry ticket for free at museums that take the Paris Museum Pass but require an advance ticket purchase.
• Be prepared to go through security at all major attractions and avoid carrying any large bags or things like penknives.
• There are free lockers available at the Louvre to store coats and bags. After walking through this huge museum you will appreciate leaving some things in the lockers.
• The Louvre displays over 380,000 pieces of art over miles of galleries. The best way to explore the Louvre is with a guided tour. Two that I highly recommend are Closing Time at the Louvre: The Mona Lisa at her Most Peaceful by Walks of France and the Mona Lisa First Viewing tour by LivTours.
• Make sure you leave yourself time to explore some of the hidden gems of Paris .

Tips for Shopping in Paris

• Fashionistas around the world dream of shopping in Paris, just keep in mind that it is easy to blow the vacation budget in the Paris boutiques. Good neighborhoods for boutique shopping are Saint-Germain-des-Prés along Boulevard Saint Germain, especially near the intersection with Rue du Bac and Boulevard Raspail, and Le Marais near Place des Vosges and neighborhood streets toward Centre George Pompidou and down toward Hôtel de Ville.
• For department stores, visit Galeries Lafayette (upscale), Monoprix (like a Target), and Bon Marché.
• Foodies will want to check out Le Grande Épicerie at Bon Marché, Rue Cler market street, and the Rue Montorgueil in Le Marais.
• If you spend over 100.01 euros, you can get a percentage of the Value Added Tax back if you live outside of the European Union. Request the VAT refund forms from the shop and bring these and your purchases with you to the airport. Before you check a bag (or keep the items in your carry-on), bring the items and these forms, along with your ID, to the Tax Refund area in the airport. Just keep in mind that if you depart early, the tax refund window may not be open yet and then you are subject to whether or not the electronic kiosks are working.

Tips for What to Wear in Paris

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• In a city known for fashion, you will want to look smart if you don’t want to stand out as a tourist while you are in Paris. Avoid athleisure wear such as leggings or sweat pants, as well as shorts and running shoes/cross-trainers.
• Luckily Paris has gotten a bit more casual so you will see plenty of jeans and white fashion sneakers like Vejas and Adidas, along with high-top sneakers like Chuck Taylors from Converse or high-top black leather boots (Doc Marten-style.) You will definitely need some comfortable walking shoes! I relied on my high-top leather sneakers and waterproof boots from Taos.
• Since the weather is variable, it helps to layer and you can easily dress a t-shirt up with a cardigan or blazer. You can’t go wrong with a ubiquitous striped shirt .
• You will want a safe way to carry your valuables and I love the cross-body, anti-theft bags from Travelon and for longer days, the packable travel backpack from Travelon.
• Even though I like to have my valuables locked up, I want fast and easy access to my phone to take pictures or look up directions. I found the Bandolier phone case and lanyard the perfect travel companion.
• Make sure to pack an umbrella and a weatherproof jacket, especially if you are visiting in the spring. (See the best time to visit Paris .)
• While you won’t be wearing it, don’t forget to pack adapters for charging your devices and converters if you plan on using your hair dryer or styling irons. A US-to-EU adapter with built-in USB outlets is ideal.
• See my friend Andi’s suggestions on what to wear in Paris and pack for a summer visit to Paris

Stay Street Smart in Paris

• Keep alert for pickpockets, especially around popular attractions like the Eiffel Tower. Often they will work in teams or groups to distract you. Be especially vigilant when you stop to watch street performers. Using one of the anti-theft, locking bags that I mentioned above will help.
• There are also people that try to run scams on visitors in Paris, like asking you if you “lost” a ring or trying to hand you a flower. It is best to ignore them and walk away. This post has some good info on how to spot common tourist scams .
• You also want to avoid looking like an obvious tourist by walking around holding out your phone that is loudly providing turn-by-turn directions. Instead, put your phone in your pocket and pop in your earbuds to listen for directions instead.
• There are public bathrooms around Paris but you will need to pay for them. You can use the Flush app to find the closest bathroom. You can also go into a cafe and get a coffee and then use the bathroom. Just don’t try to use the bathroom without buying something first. It is best to do what I always encourage kids to do. Just “try” when you have the opportunity (at a museum, after eating in a restaurant, etc.)

You are now ready to conquer planning your first trip to Paris with these tips for visiting Paris! Remember, if you need more advice, check out both my suggested 5-day Paris itinerary and my Paris trip planning checklist .

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Tamara Gruber is the Founder and Publisher of We3Travel. A former marketing executive and travel advisor, Tamara is an award-winning travel writer and recognized expert in family travel. Tamara is a member of SATW and the Adventure Travel Trade Association, and serves on the Board of the Family Travel Association. She is also the publisher of YourTimetoFly.com and the co-host of the Vacation Mavens travel podcast.

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Publish Date: November 25, 2022

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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.

Disclaimer:  This post might contain affiliate links. This means we may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you) should you choose to sign up for a program or make a purchase using one of our links. It’s okay – We love all of the products we recommend anyway, and you will too! Also, that commission helps us keep this awesome free blog up to date! You can read our  full disclosure here  for more details!

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.

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.

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

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

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 .

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

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

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

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.

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

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

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Sharing is caring!

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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First Time Guide To Paris

First-Time Guide To Paris

My first trip to Paris was just shy of my 21st birthday. I was studying abroad in Italy with my friends and decided to go to Paris for Valentine’s Day weekend. Just a day before the trip, I came down with terrible bronchitis. I had a fever and was sick during that trip, but I would let go of my dream of seeing Paris. I pushed through the weekend, making my recovery time from bronchitis much longer, but it was worth it. We took a double-decker bus, and I ate a banana and Nutella crêpes. Looking back, I wish there was a first-time guide to Paris to help me understand where to go and what not to do

Since my first trip to Paris, I have learned a lot by making mistakes and doing all the touristy things. A helpful blog and Google map that first time around would have saved us hours looking for Angelina Hot Chocolate . But we made memories, and I wouldn’t change a thing.

How is Paris Laid Out?

This post is to help you have the best first trip to Paris. Paris is broken up into different neighborhoods called arrondissements. To understand how they lay on a map, the 1st arrondissement is in the center of the city and follows the path of a snail moving outwards. Paris has twenty arrondissements spanning the left and right banks of Paris. To see the significant Paris attractions, you will want to start in central Paris and work toward different areas of Paris if you have time.

You can walk the city from one end to the other in about an hour, depending on how quickly you walk.  Public transportation is everywhere, and famous landmarks are accessible by a close metro line. During your first time in Paris, please don’t feel pressured to do it all.

If you fly from the US on the first day, you will be jet-lagged. Make sure to get lots of water and fresh air. Don’t walk too much on the first day if you are tired before a few days of sightseeing. Break it up each day and enjoy the city. Choose a destination within walking distance of the hotel and grab a good meal. You can see my jet lag tips here! 

These are tips that I share with all my friends and family who tell me they are headed to Paris for the first time. It was easier to write one great blog post than to retype or forward an email. I hope this helps make your trip as a first-time visitor enjoyable!

Purchase The Paris Guide 

Suppose you are looking for a more detailed guide to Paris. Check out The Paris Guide , which is 80 pages of helpful tips and favorite restaurants, hotels, and neighborhoods to discover. It is excellent for first-time travelers or those looking for off-the-beaten-path tips.

Do I need Cash For Paris?

Make sure you keep euros on you. Not everyone will accept credit cards. If you want to stop for a quick coffee or croissant, you will need small change. Check-in with your bank and notify them before leaving. I use Bank of America and can take out money from any local BNP in Paris. This is the wallet I use for a credit card and small change.

Since the pandemic, this has been updated a bit, and most places will accept a credit card or Apple Pay for coffee. Some spots have a minimum bank card amount that you have to reach. You can tap to pay a lot of places. Keeping euros on you for tipping and the market is a good idea.

I believe in tipping well in Paris . A good concierge is a gem of information and should be tipped accordingly. I also leave a few euros a day for hotel cleaning staff.

Tips to Getting Around Paris

Google Maps on your phone or a paper map from your hotel will lead you around the city to wherever you need to go. Take time to put down the map and get lost. A metro line is always nearby to get you back to your starting point. Explore the city on foot and see what you discover.

The best time to explore Paris without a bunch of tourists is in the early morning. It’s just you and the city. One of my favorite things to do is watch the sunrise over the Seine River.

Visit a Local Café in Paris

Save money by ordering a quick coffee at the bar, which is a faster option to grab a quick coffee. Another option is to take a seat and people-watch. You will pay double the price, but the table will be yours for however long you want.  You can use this guide for How to Order Coffee in Paris. Not a coffee drinker? Grab a glass of wine or a Coke. When you visit a local café and take a table on a terrace, the terrace will be yours until you ask for the bill and pay. The French will not rush you off as they do in the US.

You can buy a drink and be left alone to people-watch or read a book. You can ask for the café wifi, which will most likely be available. Put your phone down and soak in the city to be immersed in the culture. Even if you don’t speak French, you can enjoy watching the world go by. This post on Essential Café Etiquette will come in handy.

How to Ride the Metro in Paris

Buy metro tickets in a pack of 10, known as a carnet. Day passes are also available for the metro to hop on and off multiple times. The cost is cheaper than buying multiple tickets; you will always have a ticket available when needed. The metro is an affordable way to get around the city of Paris. Some stations don’t offer a ticket machine, so having these on hand is good. You must hold onto your ticket until you reach your final destination.

Do not try to cut through without paying. There are some random ticket checkers at metro stations, and you must show your metro ticket. If you do not have a valid ticket, you will be fined. Travel at off-peak times to avoid crowded trains (rush hour). You can take the metro as late as midnight, and they will be full of people, so don’t worry about feeling like you will be unsafe.

First-time Guide to Paris

Explore paris by bike.

You can rent a city bike located at different Vélib stations around the city . There are over 1,000 stations and 20,000 bikes for rent. Make sure to inspect your bike for any damages before grabbing it. I have had a flat tire before, and it wasn’t fun looking for a new docking station to switch it out. Taking a bike around the city is a great way to explore Paris. You can also book a bike tour with Fat Tire Tours . I have done two, one in the city and one in Versailles. The ticket includes a guided tour of Versailles and the grounds.

Visiting the Palace of Versailles is a day trip out of the city, but it is worth visiting on your first trip to Paris. You can also take RER C to Versailles without taking a tour.

Explore The Right and Left Banks of Paris

Be open to the left and right banks of Paris. They are very different but equally charming. Take time to explore them both. The River Seine divides the two banks. The Latin Quarter and Musée d’Orsay are on the Left Bank, and the Louvre Museum is on the Right Bank.

You can easily spend a day exploring different parts of Paris, such as Saint Germain des Prés, Montmartre, and the Eiffel Tower. Choose a destination and a place to eat and build around that.

Visit the Paris Gardens: First Time Guide to Paris

The gardens in Paris are a part of the culture. Jardin du Luxembourg on the Left Bank and The Tuileries Garden on the Right Bank are both famous.

Tuileries Garden

Luxembourg Gardens in the Spring

I personally love Palais Royal, a miniature garden behind the Louvre. Here, you can take a book or picnic, sit in the green chairs, and enjoy the sunshine.

For a park off the beaten path, visit Parc Monceau. It is a quick walk from the Arc de Triumph. In the springtime, you can see magnolias and cherry blossoms with pops of pink around the garden.

Explore Montmartre: First Time Guide to Paris

Visit Montmartre for an afternoon to see Sacre Coeur and Moulin Rouge. You can see my full Montmartre guide here. I love grabbing lunch at an outdoor café for people-watching. You can easily spend an afternoon here. Enjoy the view of Paris from the steps of Sacre Coeur. Walk the street of Rue Lepic, which winds behind Montmartre, for a unique experience in Paris. Rue des Martyrs is filled with delicious bakeries and cafés.

Skip a Trip to the Eiffel Tower: First Time Guide to Paris

The view of the city is lovely, but you miss the Eiffel Tower when you are standing there. There can be long lines, and it isn’t worth the wait. You can book advance tickets online to visit the top without delay. Make sure to see the Eiffel Tower sparkle at least once. It sparkles every hour on the hour after sunset. This post has ideas on different spots in Paris to see it sparkle.

I always recommend the view from the Arc de Triomphe to see the city of lights. Below is a view of Paris from up above.

Visit At Least One Museum

Purchase a Paris Pass , which gives you access to multiple museums and tourist attractions at a discount, including the Arc de Triomphe (with a great view of the Eiffel Tower), Sainte Chapelle, and Versailles. The Louvre is also included in the pass, giving you access to the Mona Lisa if seeing her is high on your list. A pass will save you money and time. For budget travelers, the first Sunday of every month allows for free entry to some of the major museums in the city.

Enjoy French Macarons in Paris

Paris is known for their pastries. You will hear much about Ladurée for macarons, but I prefer to visit Pierre Hermé rather than Ladurée. The tarte au citron at Sébastian Gaudard is a personal favorite.

Choose a Paris Hotel with a Central Location

You may not spend much time in your hotel room, but you will want something clean and safe. There are many options in the city of Paris and different budget ranges. A bad stay can make or break a first trip anywhere. I have a full list of favorite hotels in Paris that I recommend to readers and friends. I prefer boutique hotels over larger hotels.

During your first time in Paris, stay in central Paris. This way, you are within walking distance of all the Paris landmarks and monuments. You can return to your hotel throughout the day to rest and recharge.

Try Berthillon Ice Cream on île St Louis.

Visit on the weekdays as the weekends are packed. I love the chocolate noir and the fruit sorbets. There are seasonal flavors that are fun to try, too. Berthillon has several locations on the island of île St. Louis. If one has a line, try further down to try another spot. It’s worth the wait. This is a perfect opportunity to try out some of your French phrases when you order.

Spend a Sunday in The Marais: First Time Guide to Paris

Place des Vosges is the main square and park in the Marais. Picnic here or go for a stroll. You can enjoy one of the many cafés close by. Enjoy the adorable Merci concept store on Boulevard Beaumarchais for shopping in the Marais. Explore the Bastille Market early in the morning and pick up a few items to picnic.

The Marais will be lively and filled with tourists and locals on Sunday. Place des Vosges is an excellent spot for a picnic on a warm day. Visit the Picasso Museum, which is also available on the city museum pass.

L’as Au Fallafel on Rue des Rosiers has always been a favorite. There will be a line, but it will move fast. I love Miznon, just across the street.

Café Camille is an excellent spot for brunch or a glass of wine for people-watching. The streets will be packed with people, and around this corner, there is music by local artists that will play in the afternoon.

Listen to Jazz in Paris

I fell in love with jazz in Paris. The local brasserie I would have dinner at each night would play TSF Jazz on the radio. Listening to jazz brings me back to those quiet nights in Paris when I first discovered the city.

I love Duc de Lombards. If it isn’t in your price range, check out Café Laurent on the Left Bank.

Picnic on the Seine

Grab a bottle of wine, baguette, cheese, and charcuterie, and find a spot along the river bank. This is a simple meal, but it will be one of the best things you can do if there is good weather. Local markets throughout the city will offer everything you need for the perfect picnic. You can also shop a food street such as Rue Cler or Rue Montorgueil.

You can see ideas on where to picnic in Paris in this post.

 Visit a local boulangerie: First Time Guide to Paris.

Plan a visit to a local bakery and try different French pastries. (pain au chocolate, pain au raisin, croissant au beurre )I love to visit  Du Pain et Des Idées for croissants. They are famous for their escargot croissants in the shape of a snail. Pain au raisins and pistachio are their traditional flavors, but they also have some unique flavors, including red fruits. Larger groups should send one person to order, and the rest can grab a seat outside at a table.

For the best croissant, check out this post. 

Beware of pickpockets and scammers.

Paris is a big city, and you must always be aware of your belongings. A bag that zips is highly recommended when exploring Paris. Keep a small wallet with change, a credit card, and everything else safe at your apartment or hotel. Make a copy of your passport and send it to your family or a close friend, and email a copy to yourself so you can always have access to it.

Check out my safety tips for travelers here. 

Try A Classic French Bistro

Explore French cuisine. Steak Frites at Le Relais de l’ Entrecôte is a fun experience for your first time in Paris. They only serve steak frites and don’t take reservations. You will find a line here around dinner time. The line moves quickly, and it is worth the wait. If you have your heart set on trying this place and don’t want to wait in lines, try the restaurant at lunch right when it opens. I have had luck with getting in quickly. You will tell the server how you like your steak prepared and order anything to drink. The server will write your order on the white paper tablecloth, disappear briefly, and return with the salad starter and drinks.

Don’t skip out on dessert. You may have to save room as the waiter will return for a refill of steak and fries. The profiteroles are out of this world good and worth trying at least once.

Skip tourist streets with set menus mostly along the Champs Elysées and Latin Quarter.

Here is my list of favorite places to eat and drink in Paris

Visit the market in Paris.

French markets in Paris give you a taste of the local experience.

My five favorite ones are here. You can plan your visit based on your itinerary or hotel location.

I love the Bastille market. Arrive around 9 a.m. before it gets too busy. It is open on Thursdays and Sundays. You can pick up fruits, vegetables, bread, and cheese and make your picnic. To navigate a French market like a local, see this post.

Always Pack an Umbrella Even When Rain isn’t In The Forecast

It can rain without warning, even if the weather doesn’t call for it. The covered passages of Paris make for my favorite rainy-day activity. This is one of my favorite memories from living in Montmartre. You can easily walk from the 9th at the end of Rue des Martyrs through Galerie Vivienne by only taking a few steps outside. The covered passages in Paris are filled with shops and restaurants to help pass the time on a rainy day.

Check out this post for ideas on what to do in Paris when it rains.

Watch the sunset or sunrise.

Enjoy the sunset or sunrise from one of the bridges on the Seine. In the summer, you can bring a bottle of rosé and watch from the Seine with the rest of the Parisians.

The sunrise in summer is extremely early, around 6 am, and sunset at 10 pm.

Leave the Activewear at Home/ Dress Like a Local

Comfortable shoes are a must in Paris. Vejas and other sneakers are very popular right now for men and women. A neutral-color capsule wardrobe is ideal when packing for Paris in any season. In this post, I recommend other walking shoes for different seasons.

Makeup is pretty neutral in Paris; just a few essentials, such as blush, mascara, and lipstick, are needed. Skincare is more of a focus for Parisians with a glowy, healthy look.

Visit a French Pharmacy in Paris

The best French skincare can be bought on almost every street corner. Brands include Caudalie, Klorane, Nuxe, and Avène. The staff is very knowledgeable at the pharmacies. They can explain your concerns (dryness/anti-aging, etc.) and recommend specific products for your skin type.

Take A Cooking Class

Book a cooking class or Market Tour with La Cuisine Paris. I have done a few classes with La Cuisine over the years, including a food walking tour of the city. The macaron and croissant classes are a lot of fun! They also offer a market class that teaches you how to navigate a market, and you will return to the school to cook what you have shopped for.

Please don’t feel pressured to do it all. I always leave something for my next trip. Paris should be enjoyed and not rushed. The classics will always be there. I hope this guide to Paris helped you plan your trip to my favorite city.

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Great post and beautiful photos.

I remember when you first started your posts and have enjoyed them ever since. Thank you, Rebecca, keep up the great work!

Where is the size guide? How does one make a purchase if they do not know what size to purchase?

Best neighborhood for a reasonable hotel and convenient access( walking) to great restaurants and sights

Although it is not my first trip to Paris, I still found your tips rewarding. What do you recommend for seeing the area that artist Toulouse Latrec frequented?

Thank you, Sherry! The area Toulouse-Lautrec was frequently in Montmartre. Here is a guide for you to explore : https://everydayparisian.com/a-guide-to-montmartre/

Love this post! Very helpful. Thank you!

Thanks for this post! We are going for our first time this fall and I am trying to research a ton! Really enjoy all of your posts, thank you!

Hi Rebecca! My husband and I are off to Paris for the first time in October. I kept putting off taking French lessons and missed the Alliance Françoise de Chicago sessions and the Lycee Francias classes butt into our trip (which is SUCH a bummer it’s a block away!) Do you have any suggestions to learn simple, fun, travel friendly French phrases on short notice? Thanks so much!

I have an amazing French tutor in Chicago I am happy to connect you with. Also, I wrote this post on 5 apps to help you learn French on the Go which might help you prep for your trip. Have a great adventure! http://www.everydayparisian.com/every-day-parisian/5-apps-to-learn-french-on-the-go

You are amazing! Thanks so much Rebecca! Looking forward to more Paris posts 🙂

Thank you so much, Nikki!

I didn’t know about the carafe d’eau, neather the coffee at the bar, thanks! Maybe I was lucky but I didn’t wait that much in the line for the Eiffel Tower, and I think the view is incredible! How can you say is not?

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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 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

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!

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.

Top 20 Instagrammable Places in Paris

#7 the catacombs are certainly not on the off-beat path.

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 .

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

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

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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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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Travel France Blog

All You Need to Visit France

Paris Travel Tips for Your First Time in the City

Traveling to Paris is always both an interesting plan and a logistical challenge. It is necessary to combine the will and expectations of the first visit with the specific conditions of the trip: the season, the days available, the budget, and the availability.

There is so much to see in Paris! No wonder Nicolas Barreau titled his book “Paris is always a good idea,” and Hemingway wrote that if you have lived in (let’s say: visited) Paris, “then Paris will be with you wherever you go, all the rest of your life .

Paris is a multiple, varied, and changing destination. Its rich tourist offer, which includes architectural, artistic, cultural, historical, fashion, etc., does justice to its various nicknames and makes it a destination that must be visited.

Getting to know this city of fashion and light takes more than just visiting it; to visit it, it takes more than just getting there. So, here are some practical tips for visiting Paris and making the most of your stay.

These are aimed at solving logistical, lodging, and entrance fees to places of interest, as well as considering variables that will allow you to save problems, perhaps money and, surely, time: the most precious assets of the traveler.

• Recommended: Lonely Planet Travel Guide to Paris

Tips for Your First Trip to Paris

Plan, Always Plan

Yes, it may sound like a mantra, but this is the first and foremost piece of advice that is as valid for travel as any project involving your time, physical disposition, money, and energy: plan. Plan your trip .

And not only plan but, above all, do it in advance. Planning allows you to organize and save and prioritize time, things to do, and energy.

We do not want to be those travelers who, due to lack of planning, are left wanting to do what they wanted or dreamed of doing.

Also, you don’t need to plan every second of your trip, but at least the things you want to do, yes or yes.

I know more than one or two who have been left wanting to climb the Eiffel Tower or visit the Louvre museum because tickets were sold out.

Wills and dreams must be helped and worked on, and planning is a way to make them come true. It is often said that, with good planning, 50% of the task is done.

The ways of planning are varied and always valid, but what is essential is that they anticipate events and, in fact, project them.

Thus, a travel notebook or support where to write down what is planned also helps to free a lot of mental loads.

So let’s start there, and you will see just how you optimize time, enjoy in advance, and can save considerable sums on travel tickets and entrance fees to points of interest in high demand.

• Echa un vistazo al itinerario de París en 7 días

Booking Accommodations in Advance

Can you imagine arriving in Paris for the first time and finding a place to sleep without knowing the city? Paris may be a city of light, fashion, or love, but it has never been a city for the indecisive.

Therefore, when it comes to accommodation, it is recommended to know in advance the place where you will be staying.

First of all, if you don’t know where you will go when you arrive and where you will leave each day, you won’t be able to plan much.

In this sense, booking a hotel near the city center and a metro stop is ideal, as this choice has several advantages when arriving in Paris for the first time.

Advantage number 1: impossible not to get there. In cities, the center is the magnet that attracts everything, and it will not be difficult to distinguish the means of transportation that can take you there from the station or airport of arrival.

Advantage number 2: It is convenient to get there, but it is also practical to leave every day of the trip.

Thus, you will always have multiple options of possible routes for walking, something more than recommendable.

Being in the center is convenient for everything, although sometimes not for sleeping.

We once stayed at an apartment in the St Germain district; the place was wonderful, close to everything, but just below, there were a few bars open late.

Finally, advantage number 3: being close to the points of interest allows you to return to your accommodation without interrupting the whole day planned.

However, we recommend paying special attention to certain dates, such as fashion week (between the end of September and the beginning of October), when prices go high.

That’s why we recommend you book in advance. Paris is one of the most visited cities in the world. Millions of people arrive there every year.

Among so many people, you don’t want to be the one who wastes your precious time in the city despairing about things that can be solved beforehand.

Book Your Activities and Free Walking Tours in Advance

The first point is the first for a reason: reserve, plan, plan ahead .

Especially with tickets for sightseeing that are in huge demand, such as the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre Museum. Especially during the high season .

The number of people sightseeing in Paris that can be seen during peak months can be surprising, to the point that the lines to get into some popular spots are downright daunting.

Therefore, buying or reserving as many tickets as possible in advance is advisable, as planning may be necessary.

Sounds weird? Sure, but tickets to the Eiffel Tower or the Louvre sell out fast, and in high season, you may need to book the Eiffel Tower more than… 2 months in advance!

• READ The best free walking tours in Paris in English and for FREE!

How to Get Around Paris

Paris has so many tourist and cultural offerings that it is best to know where you are going, the metro or RER stop, or if you can go walking.

In that sense, when it comes to means of transportation, the subway (metro) is the ideal way to go from one point to another in Paris.

The Paris metro has an extensive network (16 lines, 303 stations) that connects with each other and with the RER (regional or suburban) trains.

It is undoubtedly the fastest and most effective way to get from one point to another in the city.

Of course, in order to take advantage of it, we go back to the beginning: plan ahead . Learn how to get your Navigo pass.

Before your first trip there, learning some of the stations you will use the most is always good.

As for its hours of operation, it is always good to know that the Paris metro runs from 5:30 a.m. to 1:00 a.m. (arrival time of the last train, so it is not recommended to enter the metro after 00:45 a.m.).

In addition, it should be noted that on Friday and Saturday nights, the Parisian metro closes one hour later, at 2:00 am.

Paris is a beautiful city to walk around, so when the distance is not too long and time allows it, walking around Paris can be a way to relax, stroll, get to know, and at the same time go to a particular place.

• READ: HOW TO GET AROUND PARIS.

When to Go to Paris?

My first tip for visiting Paris for the first time is to visit it off the high season.

In general, the high season runs from April 1 to October 31, while the low season runs from November to the end of March .

Why avoid, as much as possible, the high season? There are several reasons for this, but they always come back to the same thing: With more tourists, the price of everything increases.

As much as Paris has so much to offer, the excessive demand (literally millions of tourists and visitors for work, etc.) will mean that not everyone will have access to what they are looking for .

For these reasons, it is worth bearing in mind that, in addition to the high season, several dates multiply tourism in the French capital and significantly impact the availability of goods and services.

Some of these dates, although variable, are always in particular months.

And these are:

• Easter Week (March / April, depends on the year) ,
• The National Holiday of July 14,
• Christmas and New Year’s Eve
• International trade fairs and shows, such as the Automobile Show (October),
• Agricultural Show (February-March),
• Fashion Week , etc.

If you are visiting Paris on those dates anyway, it is best to book as much (everything) as possible in advance to avoid the visit becoming an endless number of mishaps.

• READ Paris packing list, depending on the season.

Outfit Planner

EXTRA TIP : plan what you will take in advance so you take everything you need and do not have to make extra expenses at the destination. You can download the PDF here; the price is up to you!

Paris is Much More Than a Romantic City

Cinema and literature, above all, have been responsible for adding layers and layers of love stories that make Paris a kind of romantic scenery no doubt.

Films such as Amélie (2001), Before Sunset (2004), Moulin Rouge (2001), or stories like Victor Hugo’s Les Miserables or Flaubert’s Sentimental Education, among many, many others, present Paris as a setting for love par excellence.

However, Paris is much more than that and perfectly combines its amorous mystique with countless other attractions and nuances that make the visit even more worth it.

In fact, Paris itself has ignored, for multiple reasons, romantic symbols like the Padlock Bridge , as if it were a kind of statement: “I am much more than a romantic city.”

From art and history to monuments and fashion, to science, to multiculturalism, to the cataco mbs with the largest subway ossuary in Europe, or the various shopping malls, Paris is one and a thousand cities in one .

On one corner, it can be the exclusive and chic city and, at another point, be a cultural melting pot of migration and diversity.

Or go from the cobblestone and pedestrian intimacy of the Middle Ages to the hustle and bustle of the 21st-century city or to squares and corners where you can breathe the 19th century.

Paris really offers a lot to see, enough so that, whatever the length of your stay, there is always somewhere on the to-do list for the next trip.

Therefore, we recommend you visit the city as many days as possible within the time you have available. As you plan day by day, you will see that the days simply fill up by themselves.

Purchase the Paris Pass and/or Museum Pass

When planning, once you have defined what you want to visit, it is advisable to check if any of the tourist cards offered, meet your expectations and are useful to your trip. Spoiler alert: most likely, yes.

The Paris Pass and the Museum Pass are designed exclusively for visitors. It can help you to save money and time, depending on the trip you’re planning.

In that sense, they cover what is most in demand, and their duration may vary depending on the days you’re visiting the city. In addition, if well used, they can save a good percentage on entrance fees to points of interest.

It is worth noting that, from year to year, what each card includes may vary slightly, although the options are generally stable and varied.

The Paris Pass , for example, covers admission to more than 80 attractions and also includes breakfast and snacks at restaurants.

To give you an idea: the Paris Pass covers, among many other attractions:

• A guided tour of the Eiffel Tower
• The Hop-on, Hop-off Bus Tour
• The Louvre, Orsay
• The Arc de Triomphe
• Montmartre walking tours … The list is just beginning.
• Get your Paris Pass here.

The Paris Museum Pass is a city card oriented to access monuments and museums such as the Arc de Triomphe, Notre Dame, Louvre, Rodin, and Pantheon, among many others.

It should be clarified that, in general, it does not include access to temporary exhibitions.

Each card has different offers according to duration, partial or total access, and rates. It is advisable to take a good look to know if they could be useful to your trip or not.

Museums, More than The Louvre

Then, regardless of the museum passes, it is worth remembering that on the first Sunday of the month, admission to the museums is free .

Remember, for the first visits to Paris, that there are many more museums than the Louvre . Just do some research and find which interests you the most, because there is something for everyone.

If you are interested in art, visit the Musée d’Orsay . A semi-hidden gem is the Rodin Museum, the Picasso Museum, and the Museum of Modern Art , among many others.

If you are more attracted to science, then the Natural History Museum and even the Catacombs will be particularly appealing.

Paris is a sort of city museum full of monuments, sculptures, palaces, and historical pieces. Every street looks like a gallery or museum wing. Paris breathes history.

• Paris museums in the 16th arrondissement.
• Impressionist Museums in Paris [Top 5]

Visit Versailles, Best on Weekdays

As for going to Versailles , we recommend avoiding the weekend , as visitors multiply and the visit may be overwhelming.

The palace is imposing and gigantic, but its most attractive points are those that always attract the largest number of visitors, such as the Hall of Mirrors or the royal chambers.

For this reason, if you can choose which day to go, it is best to do it during the week to make the most of the visit and the space.

Wear Comfortable Walking Shoes

Paris is a city that invites you to walk. Each place has its atmosphere and its magic, its way of making us think and feel its language. For that, you need to be comfortable.

Essential: wear comfortable shoes . And not only for walking but also for going up and down stairs, accessing the subway, for standing when needed without unnecessary discomfort.

• READ: What to bring on your trip to Paris according to the SEASON .

Learn some French Phrases

It is always convenient to have some phrases in mind to get out of possible mishaps or simply to be able to interact in a more pleasant way when buying a ticket or food when requesting information when entering or leaving somewhere.

From the most basic, the following should not be missing:

Bonjour (good morning)

Merci (thank you)

S’il vous plait (Please) is pronounced something like seevuple.

Au revoir (good-bye) is pronounced something like orvua, but with the French r

Even if the rest of your interaction is in another language, it is a form of politeness and you’ll have a better experience in the city.

Always say “Bonjour” before demanding or ask at someone in France.

In fact, if you do not know French, knowing a few words and sentences helps you to have a better experience in Paris. Check this book with useful French phrases .

Some of the restaurants in Paris we have tried over the years.

Watch out for Pickpockets and Scams

When walking through crowded places, being in the subway, or sitting in a café on the street, we recommend being especially careful with pickpockets.

It is best to travel around the city light and with your belongings arranged discreetly, comfortably, and close at hand. The closer your things are to your bodies, the less likely they are to be taken from us. It is not the most common, but it can happen.

Paris is generally a very safe city on the tourist circuit, but it is always good to be careful with our belongings and avoid mishaps and discomfort.

Also, there are some scams, like the shell game artists or people, almost always young girls, asking to help a charity house, and what they do is ask you for money, other times they steal your data and other times your wallet…

Reserve Your Favorite Restaurant in Advance

In case you want to go to a famous restaurant, it is advisable to reserve in advance to guarantee a place. French people make reservations for everything, even buying a phone.

Depending on which one it is, reservations may be required weeks to months in advance. In case of high tourism influx dates, we recommend doubling the anticipation.

Taste the Local Food

Visiting a city and getting to know it is also about using all five senses. So, in addition to seeing and hearing, you will have to feel textures, smells, and tastes to really be in Paris and for Paris to be in you.

Tasting the local food is often the way to get to know a place and learn about its history, customs, and traditions.

Paris presents a number of typical dishes, some shared with other regions of France.

Don’t forget your TRAVEL INSURANCE, you know, just in case!

Local Food Must-Haves are:

– Entrecote with french fries : they say that this simple dish was invented in Paris. You’ll have to try it and give us your opinion!

– Foie gras: duck liver is a must in French gastronomy. It is essential to accompany it with rich bread with cereals or raisins and with sweets or dried fruits and nuts recommended to enhance its flavor and texture.

– Cheeses : there are many varieties, but for a first trip, you can focus on Camémbert, Brie, Comté, and Reblochon. They are strong, delicious cheeses from different regions of France that are tasted in many places in Paris.

– Boeuf Bourguignon : beef stewed in red wine. Ideal for pairing with… Red wine! Special to taste a French wine.

– Quiche Lorraine : typical French tart made with eggs and cream, filled with meat and/or cheese.

– Croque Monsieur : a grilled sandwich made with cheese, cooked ham, and bread.

– Tartines : bread and butter, typical breakfast in cafés.

Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance

It is always convenient to be and know that you are covered in case of any inconvenience, no matter how minor. Good travel coverage will allow you to focus on knowing the place you’re visiting without worrying about “what if…”.

You can purchase your travel insurance with this link at a 5% discount.

Prepare for Security Checks at Major Tourist Sites

In recent years, as is well known, security controls have multiplied in the most attractive tourist spots in order to prevent and avoid attacks, so it is advisable to take things calmly and, on vacation, as a small formality.

Places with control security are Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, etc.

Visit the Most Tourist Attractions First Thing in the Morning

To avoid setbacks and make the most of each day’s time, it is advisable to first go to the most attractive and in-demand places.

It may seem exaggerated, but standing in line for a few minutes or hours a day can save a third of the day and make better use of it.

Dress in Layers

In winter or cold months, remember to dress like an onion, in layers. It’s the best way to avoid the cold weather outside and the hot inside de places.

Layers, layers, and layers are the most practical recommendation. If you can count on a thermal garment, so much the better.

Again, footwear is essential. Earlier, we wrote that it should be comfortable. Well: being cold is uncomfortable, isn’t it?

Well, in case of going in winter, the shoes must be winter shoes to avoid the extreme cold that starts, excuse the redundancy, in the extremities.

Tipping: Not Obligatory but Appreciated

In general, prices in France include taxes and service, so formally, the tip is already included in the payment (15% of it).

However, if you feel that the service has been excellent and deserves a distinction, a tip may be left as a token of appreciation and satisfaction. In general, this is usually between 5 and 10% of the amount paid.

Plan Your Trip to Paris

• What to Bring on Your trip to Paris
• Visit the Loire Valley from Paris
• The museums of District 16 that you have to know
• Romantic Plans in Paris in winter
• How to get to the Palace of Versailles from Paris
• Giverny Day-Trip from Paris
• Visit London in a day from Paris

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This post may include affiliate links. This means that we will receive a small fee if you make a purchase through our links. It has no additional cost to you. It’s a win-win!

Hi there! I’m Vero! I’ve always loved traveling! I have been living in France since 2018. And traveling around this awesome country. I love road trips and traveling by van, and also, some comfy getaways :) Check out: Touristear.com

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20 Best Paris Travel Tips for First Timers

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If you’re visiting Paris for the first time, follow these simple Paris travel tips to help plan your trip like a pro. This post includes what you need to know before going to Paris, where to book your hotel, where to eat, the best things to do, and how to save money on the city’s top attractions.

When visiting Paris for the first time, most tourists either think – Wow! This is the most beautiful city in the world where I can eat fresh croissants every day and watch the Eiffel Tower light up in the evening.

Or they think – Yikes! This is the most over-rated city ever! It smells like cigarette smoke everywhere, the streets are dirty, and the locals are rude.

Well, it’s possible to think both viewpoints.

When I first arrived in Paris, it wasn’t the charming city that I romanticized about from movies. But after a few days of exploring, I realized that I making a lot of silly mistakes.

Today I’m sharing 20 things I wish I knew before going to Pairs. These tips can help you plan your trip like a pro and fall in love with the City of Lights.

While Paris is known to be one of the world’s most expensive cities, there are plenty of ways to have an amazing trip without breaking the bank.

Table of Contents

Where to stay in Paris for the first time?

When visiting Paris for the first time, the best neighborhoods to book your hotel accommodations are:

• The 7th Arrondissement – Near the Eiffel Tower and the BEST neighorhood for first-timers.
• Montmartre (The 18th Arrondissement) – A quiet and romantic area of Paris.
• South Pigalle (The 9th Arrondissement) – Great for travellers on a budget.
• Le Marais (The 3rd & 4th Arrondissement) – Central location and one of the hippest districts in Paris.
• Saint Germain (The 6th Arrondissement) – A classic Parisian neighorhood.
• The Latin Quarter (The 5th Arrondissement) – Popular with tourists and students.
• Champs-Élysées (The 8th Arrondissement) – Lots of excellent restuarants and shops near here.

If you’re traveling on a budget, these are the best affordable hotels in Paris:

• Hotel Marignan – Located in the Latin Quarter (5th Arrondissement)
• The Helussi Hotel – Located in the 9th Arrondissement
• Hotel Eiffel Turenne – Close to the Eiffel Tower

If you have some more wiggle room in your budget, these are the best mid-range hotels in Paris:

• Hotel Lorette – Astotel – Located in the 10th Arrondissement
• Hôtel Le Relais Saint Charles – Located in the 7th Arrondissement
• Hôtel Duquesne Eiffel – Located in the 7th Arrondissement near the Eiffel Tower

If you want to splurge on a nice place, these are the best luxury hotels in Paris:

• Hôtel Plaza Athénée – Beautiful views of the Eiffel Tower from the hotel
• The Peninsula Paris – Just steps away from the Arc de Triomphe
• Le Bristol Paris – A short walk from the city’s most popular shops and attractions in the 8th Arrondissement

To make your holiday more enjoyable, here are some do’s and don’ts when visiting Paris. These Paris travel tips will come in handy if you’re traveling solo or with a group.

Related Posts:

• The ultimate guide to visiting Paris on a budget
• Paris Pass review – is it worth it?
• 6 day Paris itinerary for first time visitors

1. Avoid taking a taxi to get around the city

Taking taxis to get around the city is expensive. Plus, you’ll waste your vacation time sitting in traffic. The Paris public transportation system is easy to use and it’s a quick way to get to all the top destinations in the city.

You can save money by purchasing a book of 10 (“carnet”) tickets for 18.60 €. This is cheaper than buying single metro tickets which costs €1.90 .

Make sure to keep hold of your ticket until you have completed your journey, as you may be asked to show it if tickets are being inspected .

If you are planning to use the public transportation system a lot, consider getting Paris Visite travel pass .

This is a card that gives you unlimited travel on all of the public transport networks: the metro, tramway, bus, RER and SNCF Transilien networks. It’s valid for 1, 2, 3, or 5 consecutive days .

The RATP app can be helpful when using the Paris public transportation system. It includes all the network’s maps, live updates, route planners, and lots of other great tools to help you plan your trip.

More great ways to get around Paris:

Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour – If you’re visiting Paris for the first time, this bus tour is highly recommended.

Explore Paris at your own pace with a 24 or 48-hours ticket on this sightseeing bus. Includes engaging commentary as you drive past the city’s most famous landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame.

If you’re using the Paris Pass , your pass includes a free 1-day Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour.

Paris Seine River Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Cruise – Discover Paris from the river with a 24 or 48-hours ticket to the Batobus riverboat shuttle service. If you’re using the Paris Pass , your pass includes a free Bateaux Parisiens River Cruise.

Paris Charming Nooks and Crannies Bike Tour – Follow your guide along the literary Saint Germain des Prés, past the antic Latin Quarter and through the medieval Marais.

Paris City Highlights Bike Tour – Cycle past iconic attractions, such as the Eiffel Tower, Champs Elysee, and River Seine, for an unforgettable introduction to the sights and sounds of Paris.

Montmartre Paris Walking Tour – Discover bohemian Paris with a guided tour of Montmartre. This is one of the most popular neighborhoods in Paris!

Dark City Secrets Walking Tour of Paris – You’ll discover the historical murders, crimes, and fantastic legends that have shaped the story of this city.

Electric Bike Tour of Paris’ Hidden Gems – Discover Paris’s ancient secrets and hidden gems on a guided tour by electric bike.

Paris City Highlights Segway Tour – Learn about the city’s history, interesting facts, and local tips from your guide along the way.

2. Save on attractions with the Paris Pass

Paris is a big city and there’s lots of fun things to do and see. It can be challenging to plan an itinerary and determine which attractions to spend your money on.

The best way to save money sightseeing in Paris

Use the Paris Pass . Getting the most bang for your buck is my #1 priority when planning a vacation and the Paris Pass was rated the #1 Paris tourism pass by TripAdvisor .

They’re also recommended by Expedia and the Paris Pass currently has a rating of 4/5 on TripAdvisor .

With the Paris Pass, you can save time, money, and enjoy stress-free sightseeing. But don’t just take my word for it. Check out these reviews.

PRO TIP:  Buy the pass online to save extra money off the retail price. To buy the Paris Pass, click here to go to the official website.

HURRY! Save up to €30 off the Paris Pass until April 14th. You have 2 years to activate the pass.

What is the Paris Pass?

The Paris Pass can be a great option for anyone who wants to visit the most popular attractions and save money.

The Paris Pass is a pre-paid tourism card that includes free entry to over 35 popular attractions and tours in Paris. You can choose a 2, 3, 4 or 6-day pass duration for your trip.

If you choose the 4 or 6-day pass , you’ll also receive the Paris Museum Pass , which includes free entry to over 50 museums and monuments in Paris, including the Louvre , Musee d’Orsay , and Centre Pompidou .

Plus, you can use the Paris Pass to get free Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour and entry to  75+ other attractions , museums, and tours in the city (if you choose the 4 or 6-day pass).

How to get your Paris Pass:

STEP 1: Choose which pass duration you want to buy (2, 3, 4 or 6 day). You can click here to purchase your Paris Pass from the official website.

If you want to visit the museums, such as the Louvre, choose a 4-day or 6-day Paris Pass.

• 4-day Paris Pass and receive a 4-day Paris Museum Pass.  
• 6-day Paris Pass and receive a 6-day Paris Museum Pass. 

Why you should consider buying the pass online:

• When you buy the pass online, you can take advantage of online discounts .
• They offer a 365-day money-back guarantee , so you can get a full refund just in case your plans change.
• You can activate your pass anytime within two years from the date of purchase.

STEP 2: Download your mobile pass instantly using the Paris Pass App.

If you prefer a physical pass, simply print your pass and guidebook at home. Links and easy-to-follow instructions for both options will be in your confirmation email.

STEP 3: You now have FREE access to any of the 75+ top Paris attractions included for the duration of your pass.

How to activate the pass : It will activate once you visit your first attraction and can then be used on consecutive calendar days for the number of days purchased. 

You’ll also receive a free guidebook , which is included with your purchase. Use this book to help you easily plan your itinerary.

Other ways to save money on Paris attractions:

Paris Museum Pass – If you’re just interested in visiting museums and monuments , you may want to consider getting the Paris Museum Pass instead. Valid for 2, 4 or 6 days.

NOTE : The Paris Pass include BOTH the Paris Attraction Pass and the Paris Museum Pass.

Paris Explorer Pass – If you’re just interested in visiting the Eiffel Tower and doing tours in Paris , then you may want to consider getting the Paris Explorer Pass instead.

Don’t make the mistake of paying full price for attractions when you can save money with one of these city passes. Choose the one the works best for your trip and itinerary.

Can you visit Paris museums for free?

For some museums in Paris, admission is free for the following visitors:

– Under 18 year old . You must present an official ID.

– Under 26-year-old residents of the European Economic Area (EU, Norway, Iceland, and Liechtenstein). You must present certificate of residence or valid piece of ID.

3. Some tourist attractions require reservations

If you’re planning to visit some of the popular attractions in Paris, such as the Eiffel Tower, make sure to book your tickets in advance.

Even if you’re using the Paris Pass , Paris Museum Pass , or Paris Explorer Pass , you’ll need to book some attractions in advance.

When you purchase the Paris Pass , you can make reservations and book the time slot you wish through their website.

In the past, you could visit the Louvre anytime during it’s operating hours. However now, you MUST book a time slot . Even if you are eligable for free admission, you must book a time slot.

Below are some of the city’s tourist attractions that you’ll need to book in advance :

• Eiffel Tower
• Louvre Museum
• Palace of Versailles
• Aquarium de Paris
• Orangerie Museum
• Sainte-Chapelle
• La Conciergerie

4. Avoid booking a hotel outside of Paris

I know those affordable hotels near Disneyland Paris sound tempting. But unless you’re spending every day exploring the Disney park, it’s not a good idea.

If you’re visiting Paris for the first time, I highly recommend choosing a central location that provides easy access to your must-see attractions.

Many tourists make the mistake of staying outside of Paris in order to save money. But commuting into the city every day is expensive. Plus, it wastes a lot of your precious sightseeing time.

To save money, you may want to consider booking your accommodations through Booking.com . This is my go-to site for finding deals on hotels. Below you can check prices on local hotels in Paris.

5. Don’t think that everything in Paris is expensive

Paris is home to some of the world’s best luxury hotels, restaurants, and attractions. But there are plenty of ways to have fun in Paris even if you’re traveling on a tight budget.

Below are some Paris travel tips to enjoy your trip without breaking the bank.

How to save money on Paris hotels

I recommend using Booking.com to save money. Compare prices to find the best deal.

I know that booking your hotel early might seem kind of rushed, but many hotels on Booking.com offer free cancellations up to a certain point. This can give you peace of mind when planning your trip to Paris.

When is the best time to visit Paris?

If you’re looking to beat the crowds and get the best price on accommodations, visiting Paris between October and April works best.

Avoid peak season , which is during June, July and August. This is when the city can get extremely busy, the weather is hot, and the prices are high.

Also, August is the month where many locals take their vacation. The city is swarming with tourists and some places are randomly closed.

The hotel start rating system is different in Europe – The hotel star rating system is slightly different in Europe than it is in North America. The star rating corresponds to a checklist of amenities and requirements.

So you can find some really nice and affordable 2-Star hotels in Paris that are smaller and don’t have amenities like a pool, while also finding poorly run 5-Star hotels that only receive that rating because they have a fitness center and a spa.

How to save money dining at restaurants in Paris

Avoid restaurants in tourist areas because they are expensive and mediocre (at best).

Take advantage of prix fixe menus at breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

Eat at street vendors or coffee shops for lunch so you can afford to go out for dinner. I love snacking on Nutella crepes or falafel wraps while walking around Paris!

Don’t pay the extra fee for breakfast at your hotel. Instead, save money by grabbing a fresh croissant and espresso at a local cafe or corner store.

Ordering a pitcher / carafe of house wine at a restaurant is usually cheaper than ordering a bottle of wine.

Order a carafe of tap water instead of paying for bottled water at restaurants.

How to save money sightseeing in Paris

I recommend using a tourism pass to save money on sightseeing. My favorite is the Paris Pass , however the Paris Museum Pass , or the Paris Explorer Pass can be great options too.

You can also save money by visiting museums for free on the first Sunday of each month. Just keep in mind that free museum days are ALWAYS busy. Try to visit in the last couple of hours before closing time to beat the crowds.

How to save money on public bathrooms in Paris

You’ll need to pay up to 1€ to use a public bathroom in Paris. To save money, I recommend using the free public bathrooms whenever you stop to eat, drink or visit a tourist attraction.

Read Next: The Ultimate Guide to Visiting Paris on a Budget

Prep for your Paris trip

7. Pack voltage converters or adapter plugs for your electronics

Most people know the voltage in France is 220-240, but still many visitors forget.

If you don’t already have an adapter, I recommend buying this great all-in-one travel adapter and charger before your trip.

If you do forget one, don’t worry. I saw a couple of tourist shops that had voltage converters and adapter plugs for sale.

8. The Paris Catacombs is a long wait, but worth visiting

Many people think that the Paris Catacombs is one of those off-the-beaten path attractions. However, it is extremely popular and there will almost ALWAYS be a long wait time to get inside.

I went during the week, mid-morning in February and waited nearly 90 minutes to get inside the Catacombs. This is a Paris travel tip that many people don’t mention.

Below are some helpful tips for visiting the Paris Catacombs :

• Get Skip-the-line tickets to save time and money – To avoid waiting in a long line, you’ll need to buy your tickets online and reserve your preferred time slot. I recommend buying your tickets from GetYourGuide . If your plans change, ou can cancel up to 24 hours in advance to receive a full refund.
• I recommend booking time slots in the morning or evening as this is when it’s less crowded.
• Wear comfortable shoes and clothing – Since you’ll be walking in an underground tunnel, there will be some dirt and wet spots from time to time. You don’t want to ruin your expensive shoes. It’s also chilly in the Catacombs, so I recommend wearing layers or bringing a light jacket or sweater.
• Use the bathroom before coming here . Just in case you are waiting in a long line to get inside, please know that the only restrooms are at the exit.

Interesting facts about the Paris Catacombs:

• The Paris Catacombs house the remains of over 6 million Parisians from the 18th century.
• The Paris Catacombs were used during World War II. Those in the French Resistance were using the underground tunnels as a hide out during the war. It also concealed the resistance members from German spies.
• It’s estimated that there are over 200 miles (320 kilometers) of underground tunnels. Not all of them have been mapped.

9. The best view of Paris is NOT from the Eiffel Tower

I loved going to the sommet of the Eiffel Tower, but it certainly wasn’t the best view of Paris. That’s because you’ll miss the view of the Eiffel Tower in your photos.

For example, when you go up the Empire State building in NYC, you’ll see everything except the Empire State Building. Right?

A couple of my favorite places to enjoy a beautiful view of Paris is from the top of the Arc de Triomphe and the Towers of Notre-Dame Cathedral . You can visit these two attractions for FREE when using the Paris Pass .

A view from the top of the Arc de Triomphe is both beautiful during the day and at sunset. The Paris Pass allows you to visit the Arc de Triomphe as many times as you wish.

I used the Paris Pass to go to Notre-Dame Cathedral and Arc de Triomphe twice during my trip – just because I could! I felt like a VIP with my pass! This is a must-see if you’re visiting Paris for the first time. NOTE: Notre-Dame Cathedral is currently closed due to the 2019 fire.

For more tips on how to save money and make the most of your trip to Paris, please check out this post: The ultimate guide on how to visit Paris on a budget

10. Buy your ticket in advance if you want to go up the Eiffel Tower

Even though the best view of Paris is from the Arch de Triomphe, I can appreciate that you may still want to go up the Eiffel Tower. After all, it’s one of the most popular tourist attractions in Paris (and the world).

Due to this, I highly recommend reserving your tickets in advance so you can skip the long ticket lines.

Everyone still has to go through security and you may have to wait for the elevators, but buying your ticket in advance will save you a TON of time. This is a must during the high season.

11. Skip the long line at the Louvre

The Louvre Museum is iconic and a must-visit attraction if you’re visiting Paris for the first time.

It’s home to some of the world’s most famous works of art, including the Mona Lisa. Plus, the museum used to be a palace!

But it’s also one of the busiest museums in the city, especially if you’re visiting during peak season (June through August).

Below are some Paris travel tips to follow when visiting the Louvre:

Purchase your tickets in advance – I recommend using the Paris Pass , Paris Explorer Pass , or the Paris Museum Pass to save money. If you’re not using an attraction pass, you can purchase your tickets here .

Visit the Louvre on Wednesday – Both Wednesday and Fridays, the museum stays open in the evening. Choose to visit around 3:00pm on regular days and around 5:00pm on Wednesday and Fridays to avoid crowds.

Choose the right entrance – There are 4 entrances to the Louvre Museum: the Pyramid entrance, Carrousel du Louvre, Richelieu Passage and Porte des Lions Entrance. I find the Richelieu Passage and Carrousel du Louvre are usually the least crowded .

Get a map of the museum – It’s hard to see everything the Louvre has to offer in just one day. Using a map can help you nagivate through the museum to find your “must-see” works of art.

Have limited time? If you’re short on time, the best things to see at the Louvre Museum are:

• Mona Lisa by Leonardo da Vinci
• Les Noces de Cana  by Véronèse
• Vénus de Milo
• Victoire de Samothrace
• Le Sacre de l’Empereur Napoléon Ier  by Jacques-Louis David
• La Liberté Guidant le Peuple
• Psyché Ranimée par le Baiser de l’Amour  by Antonio Canova
• Louis XIV  by Hyacinthe Rigaud
• La Dentellière  by Jan Vermeer
• Chevaux de Marly

12. Beware of taxi scams at the airport

If you plan to take a taxi from the Paris airport to your accommodations, it’s important to ONLY take regular official taxis or verified airport transfers.

You’ll find regular taxis located in the official taxi queque. Follow the signs posted in the airport arrivals to the taxi queques.

Make sure to only get inside a taxi with an illuminated rooftop sign and a meter. The sign will read “ TAXI Parisien “. If you get in the taxi and notice there isn’t a meter, get out and find another taxi.

Another good Paris travel tip is to take a private transfer between Paris and CDG Airport. or Orly Airport .

Pari is actually one of the few cities in the world where I highly recommend booking an airport transfer.

I did this when traveling with my sister so we didn’t have to worry about fumbling with our luggage on the Paris Metro.

The Paris metro is the cheapest way to get from Charles de Gulle airport the the center of Paris, but it’s not good for those who are carrying a lot of bags and luggage.

Money Saving Tip:

The Bus or RER is the cheapest way to get to and from Charles de Gaulle Airpot. The airport has 2 train stations on the B line of the RER.

13 . Keep your metro ticket after entering the metro

A good Paris travel tip is to keep your ticket after entering the metro station because you may be required to present it upon exiting (or have to pay a fine if you don’t have it).

A metro officer checked my ticket when I took the RER train to Versailles and when I exited the metro near the Eiffel Tower. Luckily, I read this tip before my trip to Paris so I made sure to keep my ticket.

If you’re using a Paris Visite travel card , make sure to write down your Given name and Surname as well as the ticket date of use on the ticket as indicated . This is what you’ll show the metro officer if they ask to see your ticket.

14. Learn a few key words in French

If you’re visiting Paris for the first time, I recommend buying a French phrasebook   for a quick fix to learn common phrases. This will be especially valuable when reading restaurant menus (if an English one is not available).

While it does help to be fluent in French, it’s not necessary for enjoying your trip to Paris. Most people in the service and tourism industry (hotels, restaurants, museums) speak basic English. Some even speak fluent English.

We found that we received good service by using French first, especially when we said, “Bonjour / Bonsoir” when entering a restaurant or shop . I always recommend saying “Bonjour” when entering a store in France.

However that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t go to Paris without knowing a few key phrases in French. This is one of the best tips for traveling to France. Below are the most important words to know:

Bonjour / Bonsoir – Hello / Good evening

Parisians like to be greeted with “ bonjour ” (or bonsoir depending on the time of day). When you walk into a store, a restaurant or your hotel, it’s polite to say “ bonjour ”.

If it’s after 5:00 PM, switch to “bonsoir”. Saying bonjour / bonsoir goes a long way and can create a good first impression.

Au revoir – Goodbye

Oui – Yes

Non – No

S’il vous plait – Please

Merci – Thank you

Saying “ merci ” is also polite. Locals will appreciate you trying to speak French!

Pardon – Excuse me

If you’re looking to pass someone when going up the stairs or you want to get off the metro and someone is standing in front of the door, you’ll hear Parisians say “ pardon ” instead of “ excuse-moi ”.

Say this and you’ll sound like a Parisian instead of standing out as a tourist.

15. Don’t fall for these popular tourist scams

If you’ve been to other cities in Europe (or major tourist cities around the world), you’ll probably recognize a scam when you see one. These scammers take advantage of unsuspecting tourists.

If you’re visiting Paris for the first time, here are a couple of popular scams you should be aware of:

The string/ bracelet scam

People may ask if you’d like a “friendship bracelet or ring”. They will tie it so tight that you can’t remove it and then demand money from you. Keep an eye out for these people (usually males) near popular museums and the Montmartre area.

Petition scams

This is usually around popular monuments, such as the Arc de Triomphe and Eiffel Tower. Mainly run by young girls, they are often holding a clipboard (or a piece of paper) and ask you “D o you speak English? ”

From my experience, these girls can be extremely aggressive and they are not afraid to grab your arm to get your attention. Firmly reject any petition and continue on your way.

PRO TIP: Keep an eye on your belongings

It’s important to keep an eye on your belongings at ALL times (especially when visiting museums, riding the metro, or in crowded areas).

Pick pockets are highly prevalent in Paris. There are signs around the city to warn tourists. Be smart and don’t let your purse or belongings out of your sight.

16. Avoid common tourist traps when visiting Paris

Most tourist traps are easy to spot, just like in any other major European city. But here’s a few rules to avoid common tourist traps:

• Skip going to restaurants and cafes near popular attractions and landmarks . Prices are often high for average quality food and drinks. Instead, walk a few blocks away to find better restaurants and cafes.
• Restaurants that display photos of the dishes and menus in several different languages are catered towards tourists. Keep in mind that these places are often expensive and the food is mediocre.
• Beware of additional charges in restaurants and cafes . Most places include a service charge (around 15%), which is automatically added to your bill. Check the bottom for “servis compris”. If service was good, you may want to leave a little extra (around 10%).
• Avoid eating at the restaurants in Versailles . Instead, bring a snack with you or eat near the Versailles Château Rive Gauche station.

17. Be mindful of tipping in Paris

When dining in a restaurant, tax and tip is already included in the menu price, and it will be shown on your bill. This service charge is usually 10%-15%. Even though it’s appreciated, you’re not expected to tip on top of this.

18. Don’t go to a non-service continu restaurant for food between the regular meal hours

You’ll notice that some restaurants in Paris have a sign that says “service continu”. This means that the restaurant serves food between regular meal hours (2:00 PM – 7:00 PM).

Restaurants that are not “service continu” either close or only offer drinks during these off hours. This is a Paris travel tip that I wish I knew before visiting.

If you’re looking to eat a late lunch (or an early dinner) make sure to look for a restaurant that says “ service continu “.

If you plan on eating at a popular restaurant, I strongly recommend making reservations in advance. For some places, this could mean the night before. For others, it could mean weeks or months in advance.

Most all-day service restaurants are usually for tourists, which means their food might be mediocre .

If you’re hungry inbetween meal times (when restaurants are closed), visit a boulangerie or bakery instead for a sandwich or quick snack.

French people tend to eat late (after 8:00PM) and many restaurants don’t open until at least 7:00PM or 7:30PM. If you’re looking to enjoy a traditional French meal, do keep this in mind.

19. Tap water is safe and free at restaurants

Ask for a carafe of tap water instead of paying high prices for bottled water. It’s perfectly safe to drink the water and you’ll save money.

Here’s how to ask for tap water in a restaurant: “ Une carafe d’eau, s’il vous plait “ . Pronounce it as… “Oon carafe ( rhymes with giraffe ) doh”.

It’s important to remember that service in Paris restaurants is slightly different than in North America. You’ll likely have to ask for water and for your bill when you’re ready to pay and leave.

20. You don’t need to dress up in fancy clothes while visiting Paris

I’ve seen many articles that recommend dressing up in fancy clothes if you want to blend in with the locals in Paris.

Yes, blending in can certainly help you feel more comfortable in a new environment. It can also help you avoid being the target of popular tourist scams, but that doesn’t mean you need to wear a suit (for men) or fancy dresses (for woman) to have a good trip to Paris.

Here’s a few tips on what to wear in Paris :

• Wear simple fitted clothing in neutral colors (black, gray, white, beige). Try to avoid bright colors or loud patterns.
• Crossbody bag so you can keep an eye on your belongs. Try to avoid wearing large backpacks.
• Falts, sneakers, or boots. There’s no need to wear high heels unless you want to.

21. Don’t spend all your time in Paris

While you could easily spend a week exploring Paris and never run out of things to do, it’s worth setting aside some time to explore France beyond Paris.

If you’re using the Paris Pass , there are several attractions outside of Paris you may want to consider checking out. Below are some popular day trips from Paris to get you inspired:

Palace of Versailles – About 12 miles west of Paris, the Palace of Versailles was built in 1642 and was the former French royal residence outside of Paris. Here you can walk in the footsteps of Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette and check out the famous Hall of Mirrors, which is the most famous room in the palace.

Villa Savoye – Situated at Poissy, the Villa Savoye is a modernist villa and gatelodge designed by Swiss architects. Here you can learn about the Five Points of Architecture.

Abbaye royale de Chaalis – Surrounded by lush woodland, Abbaye Royale De Chaalis was a French Cistercian abbey north of Paris and built in 1219. Here you can explore the ruins and check out over 6,000 objects of art in the museum.

Château de Compiègne – This was a royal residence built for Louis XV and restored by Napoleon.

Château de Fontainebleau – Located 55 kilometers southeast of the center of Paris, this is one of the largest French royal châteaux. It was the residence of 34 kings and two emperors and was the only château that was lived in by every French monarch for nearly eight centuries.

Château de Champs-sur-Marne – Just 18 km east of Paris, this is neoclassical château in Champs-sur-Marne, France.

Château de Chantilly – Located in the town of Chantilly, Oise, about 50 km north of Paris, this beautiful castle is also home to Musée Condé which has a huge collection of priceless artworks.

Mont Saint Michel – This is a tidal island and mainland commune in Normandy, France. It’s less than four hours from Paris and many people combine a visit to Mont Saint Michel with Normandy.

Loire Valley – This is one of the most popular day trips from Paris. It’s best known for its dry white wines and known as the Garden of France. The Loire Valley is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with fairy-like castles and charming towns.

Paris travel tips FAQs

What do i need to know before traveling to paris.

• Learn a few words in French.
• Avoid visiting in August. This is when locals take vacation which means a lot of shops may be closed.
• Avoid eating at restaurants near tourist attractions.
• The best way to get around Paris is on foot or riding the metro.
• Avoid fancy cafes. Instead, look for smaller cafes in less touristy neighborhoods for cheaper coffee and pastries.
• Drinking in public is legal. Many people have a picnic in the park with a glass of wine.
• Don’t expect quick service in restaurants.

What is the best time to visit Paris?

The best time to visit Paris is in the Spring and Fall when the weather is mild and there are less crowds.

If you want to find deals on hotel accommodations, the best time of year to visit Paris is November , early December , January and Februrary . I like comparing rates on Booking.com .

The best time to visit Paris for shopping is during January and July when sales on happening to find good bargains.

PRO TIP : Try to avoid visiting Paris in August and December . While the museums and monuments will still be open, many popular restaurants and shops close for vacation. The city is usually the most quiet during these two months.

What is the best way to travel in Paris?

The Paris metro is the best way to get around Paris. You can save money by purchasing a book of 10 (“carnet”) tickets for 18.60 €. This is cheaper than buying single metro tickets which costs €1.90 .

How many days is enough for Paris trip?

Aim to spend at least 4-5 days in Paris. This gives you enough time to see main highlights of the city. But if you don’t want to feel rushed and prefer to explore more of the 20 arrondissements (neighborhoods), then plan to spend 7 full days in Paris.

Is 1 enough for Paris?

One week is the perfect amount of time to spend in Paris, especially for first-timers. This will give you enough time to see the main landmarks and attractions, explore the different neighborhoods, and eat at amazing French restaurants.

My first trip to Paris was 7 days and I felt like we still didn’t have time to see everything that Paris has to offer. That’s why my second trip to Paris was 10 days. This allowed us to make day trips from the city.

What should I do on my first trip to Paris?

Below are the top things when visiting Paris for the first time:

• Musée du Louvre
• Musée d’Orsay
• Versailles Palace (Chateau de Versailles)
• Palais Garnier – Opera National de Paris
• Centre Pompidou
• Moulin Rouge
• Sacré-Coeur Basilica
• Arc de Triomphe

How do I not look like a tourist in Paris?

• When dining in a restaurant, don’t ask for a doggy bag if you didn’t finish eating your meal. This is considered rude.
• Use your indoor voice. French people tend to be quieter than Americans and most Europeans.
• Learn a few words in French as this can go a long ways.
• In France, tip is usually included in your bill.
• Always greet people in stores and restaurants with “Bonjour” first.
• Ignore people who approach you on the street speaking English.
• Avoid wearing sweatpants or active wear.
• You’re encouraged to sit down and slowly enjoy your meal in restaurants.

What is the best way to visit Paris?

• Book your hotel in the city center . This means staying in the 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th, 6th, or 7th Arrondissements.
• Use Paris public transportation to get around the city.
• Use the Paris Pass to save money on the city’s top attractions and tours.
• Take advantage of restaurants lunch specials to save money.
• Have a picnic in the park.

How much should I budget for a trip to Paris?

Your daily budget should be around €184 per person for your vacation. Based on the expenses of other visitors, this is the average daily price. (Price are in Euros).

As you can see, a vacation to New York for one week will cost an average of €1,286 per person. ( Source )

Can you do Paris on a budget?

Yes, you can have an amazing trip to Paris without breaking the bank. I travelled to Paris as a student on a limited budget and was able to stay in the city and see all the popular attractions. Below are some ways to saved money in Paris:

• Use the Paris Pass to save money and time at the city’s more popular attractions.
• Skip taxis and Uber and ride the Paris Metro . It’s easy to use, cheap and the fastest way to get around the city.
• Find cheap hotel deals on Booking.com . This is my go-to travel accommodation site.
• Have a picnic in the park. Grab bread, cheese and a bottle of wine. This is a popular activity during the warmer months.
• Make lunch your biggest meal of the day. Many restaurants offer pre-fix lunch menus. It’s affordable and then for dinner you can have a picnic in the park.
• Snack on crepes as an affordable breakfast option. There are many street vendors that sell fresh crepes. The nutella option is my favorite!
• Visit museums on the first Sunday of the mont h. Most museums offer free admission on the first Sunday of the month.

Read Next: The ultimate guide to visiting Paris on a budget

Is Paris still a good place to visit?

Yes, Paris is one of the best cities in the world and definitely worth visiting. The city is very walkable, filled with rich history, culture, beautiful sights, and serves as a source of inspiration for many writers and artists.

Is Paris open for tourism? Yes, Paris is now welcoming visitors. Most attractions are open. Check the official Paris tourism website for the most up-to-date information.

About Eden Ashley

Eden has an MBA and a degree in Psychology. As a new mom (and homeowner), she knows the importance of having a budget that works. She's helped thousands of women get good with money using the same strategies she used to save $100,000 by age 25. Click here to learn how to create a better budget!

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Eye on Travel — Paris — April 13, 2024

With scott desjardin, the superintendent of the american cemetery, in normandy.

This week’s broadcast of Eye on Travel is from the legendary Seine, perhaps the most romantic river in the world. We’ll be on board the Viking longship Radgrid as it makes its way along the Seine into the heart of Normandy. As we approach the 80th anniversary of D-Day, I will be joined by Scott Desjardins, Superintendent of the American Cemetery in Normandy, on the stories not often told of D-Day, and the staggering emotional significance of the cemetery. Nearby, in Caen, Kleber Arhoul, Chief Operating Officer at the fascinating Memorial Museum, built on top of a former German bunker, explains why the museum is not just about World War II, but embraces the entire history of the 20th century. I stop along the river in Vernon, and Rouen, and talk about the impressionists who lived and painted there. Then, of course there’s Versailles, and Curator Bertrand Rondot talks about the impressive collection, not to mention the story of the building itself. And then it’s back to Paris, as Nicolas De Gols, General Manager of Le Royal Monceau – Raffles Paris, discusses the city — and a definition of luxury for the 21st century, and how Paris is preparing for this summer’s Olympic Games. There’s all this and more on this week’s Eye on Travel , as we sail the Seine on the Viking longship Radgrid.

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• The First MICHELIN Key Hotels: All the Keys in France

The MICHELIN Guide announces top honors for French hotels in 2024.

MICHELIN Keys France Hotels

Paris by The MICHELIN Guide

See the Paris guide

On April 8, 2024, the MICHELIN Guide revealed the brand new One, Two, and Three Key distinctions for the most outstanding hotels in France.

This announcement comes four years into a comprehensive refresh of our hotel selection. The MICHELIN Guide now includes over 5,000 hotels across the world, and not a single one is simply a room for the night. These are places that significantly add to your experience as a traveler, each vetted and judged excellent in five categories: architecture and interior design, quality and consistency of service, overall personality and character, value for the price, and a significant contribution to the guest experience in a particular setting. Which brings us back to the Keys. The culmination of countless hours of evaluation by our team of experts, the Key hotels below represent the highlights of our broader selection. Like the MICHELIN Stars for restaurants, the MICHELIN Keys are our most outstanding hotels. In total, the 2024 MICHELIN Guide hotel selection in France includes 24 Three Key hotels, 38 Two Key hotels, and 127 One Key hotels. Want to know more about the MICHELIN Key? Here’s everything you need to know . Or, head below to look at all the Keys.

How To Look Through the List

Jump straight to the list or take a deeper dive into select key hotels..

Take a peek at the top-floor suite of the only chateau hotel in Paris. See what makes this hotel among the greatest art museums in the country. Or find out more about the wine hotel that uses an entire town as its foundation. Subscribe to our newsletter for more like this.

Highlights of the France 2024 Key Hotel List

The Palaces: A Distinctly French High Luxury

Expect: Butler service, high quality spas, and sumptuous spare-no-expense design. The government of France itself bestows an official Palace designation, with French tourism officials judging the most luxurious hotels in France to ensure they provide particular amenities and services (a spa, a multilingual check-in desk, a concierge service, etc.) and an excellent representation of the country. Out of 31 official palace hotels in France, many earned at least one Key — and several make up our Three Key hotels. Of the palaces that earned at least One Key, you’ll find a mix of the most historic ( the Four Seasons George V ), the most modern ( Le K2 Palace ), and the newer takes on the traditional form ( La Réserve Paris ). All are exceptional. Also read: Every Three Key Hotel in Paris

The Country Darlings: Chateaus and Vineyards

Our first annual list of Key hotels in France confirms the supremacy of these two mainstays: chateau and vineyard accommodations. Look to Château Lafaurie-Peyraguey and Château de la Gaude as particular examples of Two Key hotels that combine both. Or look just outside Bordeaux, to Les Sources de Caudalie . Built on a natural hot spring and operated by the famous Caudalie beauty brand, it’s a particularly fascinating Three Key property on the grounds of the Château Smith Haut-Lafitte vineyard.

Paris 2024: Little Boutiques Full of Hip, Trendy Design and Endless Color

We’re thrilled that in our inaugural Key distinctions we can celebrate an especially strong crop of small, design-forward boutique hotels that are anything but content to be conventional. With bright, colorful design that’s of the moment, they’re grounded in technical know-how, impeccable taste, and informed by a fascinating, sometimes quirky history. Explore Hôtel Le Ballu , La Fantaisie , Providence , Les Bains , and Norman Hôtel & Spa to see just what we mean. Also read: Inside Hôtel Le Ballu: A singular, artsy refuge in the heart of Paris

Click below to jump to each distinction: 

The three key hotels.

Antibes: Hôtel du Cap-Eden-Roc Bordeaux: Les Sources de Caudalie Champillon: Le Royal Champagne Courchevel: Cheval Blanc Courchevel Courchevel: Le K2 Palace Gordes: La Bastide de Gordes Le Castellet: Hôtel du Castellet Le Puy-Sainte-Réparade: Villa La Coste Les Baux-de-Provence: Baumanière Megève: Four Seasons Megeve Monte-Carlo: Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo Paris: Villeroy Paris: La Réserve Paris Paris: Saint James Paris Paris: Four Seasons George V Paris: Cheval Blanc Paris Paris: Ritz Paris Paris: Le Bristol Paris Paris: Le Meurice Paris: Plaza Athénée Reims: Domaine Les Crayères Saint Tropez: La Reserve Ramatuelle Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat: Grand Hôtel du Cap-Ferrat Versailles:  Airelles Château de Versailles, Le Grand Contrôle

NEW: Paris by The MICHELIN Guide – expert insights on where to dine, stay and explore

The two key hotels.

Aix-en-Provence: Château de la Gaude Avignon: La Mirande Biarritz: Hôtel du Palais Bommes: Château Lafaurie-Peyraguey Busnes: Le Château de Beaulieu Cassis: Les Roches Blanches Cheverny: Les Sources de Cheverny Cognac: Chais Monnet Courchevel: Aman Le Mélézin Courchevel: L'Apogée Courchevel Dinard: Castelbrac Eugenie les Bains: Les Pres d’Eugenie - Michel Guerard Èze: Château Eza Èze: Château de la Chèvre d'Or Gargas: Coquillade - Provence Honfleur: La Ferme Saint-Siméon Lauris: Domaine de Fontenille Le Grand-Lucé: Château du Grand-Lucé Massignac: Domaine des Étangs Monte-Carlo: Hôtel Métropole Monte-Carlo Montpellier: Domaine de Biar Nice: Le Negresco Paris: Crillon Paris: J.K. Place Paris Paris: Lutetia Paris: Nolinski Paris: Bulgari Hôtel Paris Paris: Le Royal Monceau Paris: The Peninsula Paris Paris: Shangri-La Paris Porto-Vecchio: Casadelmar Roquebrune-Cap-Martin: The Maybourne Riviera Sabran: Château de Montcaud Saint Tropez: Airelles Saint-Tropez Château de la Messardière Saint Tropez: Cheval Blanc St-Tropez Saint-Méloir-des-Ondes: Château Richeux - Les Maisons de Bricourt Saint-Paul-de-Vence: Le Domaine du Mas de Pierre Val-d'Isère: Le K2 Chogori

The One Key Hotels

Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes

Bourgogne-franche-comté, centre-val de loire, haut-de-france, île-de-france, nouvelle-aquitaine, pays de la loire, provence-alpes-côte d'azur.

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How To Turn an Entire Town Into a Bright Pink, One Key Wine Hotel

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Everything You Need to Know About the MICHELIN Key for Hotels

In April 2024, the MICHELIN Guide debuts a brand new distinction: the MICHELIN Key. While the MICHELIN Star recognizes the most outstanding restaurants in the world, the MICHELIN Key does the same for outstanding hotels. Here’s everything you need to know about the new distinction.

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How To Travel Alone: 10 Legitimately Helpful Tips for First-Timers

• Traveling solo can be just as fulfilling as traveling with family or friends with proper planning and budgeting. Step out of your comfort zone for a real adventure.
• Choose a destination that is friendly to solo travelers, with tourism industries and English-speaking locals. Connect with locals and other travelers to enrich your experience.
• Plan ahead, pre-book activities, and consider whether to have an independent trip or a small group tour. Find the best and cheapest way of accessing money, and remember to buy travel insurance. Stay connected and do something unforgettable.

Many people love to travel in groups, especially with families. It makes the trip lively, more fun, and memorable. There are also so many amazing places a family can visit on a budget . But traveling solo can also be as fulfilling as traveling with family or friends. Although it may be intimidating at first, with proper planning and budget, it can be the best trip ever. Feeling anxious to travel alone is normal, just like any other new experience. However, the real adventure starts once someone steps out of their comfort zone.

One gets many questions when a family member announces their intention to travel alone. Some of the concerns they and their loved ones may have are how much they will spend, where they’ll go, how they’ll get there, and where they will stay. These questions make budgeting for the trip feasible. This article shares some tips that answer these questions and help individuals successfully plan their first solo trip.

Choose A Friendly Destination For Solo Travelers

One of the top tips for traveling alone is to choose a place friendly to solo travelers that they can easily explore on their own. Interestingly, there are so many places travelers can visit alone . Some countries are easy to tour as solo travelers, and others are great for group travel. When picking a place, choose one that has many tourism industries. This means that the destination is ready to host travelers. That way, one can easily navigate around with their public transportation. Also, most of these places speak English, meaning one can easily communicate with others even if English isn’t their native language.

• Suggestions : Paris, Iceland, San Diego, Thailand, Malaysia and California

RELATED: 20 Questionable Places On Earth Where We Shouldn't Ever Travel Alone

Connect With Locals And Other Travelers

One of the easy ways for first-time solo travelers to enrich their experience is to make new connections during their visit. Connecting with locals can lead to meaningful friendships and a better understanding of where one is touring. Check out festivals, concerts, exhibitions, and other events that offer opportunities to interact with the community. Staying in hostels, guest houses, or co-living places is a chance to meet other travelers and learn while sharing experiences. Learn how to start conversations with strangers, as it is key to connect with people.

Think About the Local Language

One should first consider their language and the countries that speak that language. For instance, if a traveler only speaks English, traveling to somewhere like Russia may not be ideal as many people don’t speak the language. Instead, opt for countries where English is a national language . Considering the local language people in the chosen destination speak is always wise. If someone picks rural China for the first trip and doesn’t speak Chinese, it will be difficult.

When visiting a country that only speaks a foreign language , Use translation apps and memorize some phrases beforehand.

RELATED: Language Guide: Can You Travel Abroad Knowing Only English?

Pre-book Activities

There are many reasons to choose a particular destination. For instance, many people touring New York City want to visit the Statue of Liberty . But imagine traveling all the way here and being told it's fully booked. How disappointing can that be? It's wise to book the attractions ahead of time to avoid such. The same applies to restaurants and tours.

Be sure of a place before buying the ticket.

Decide Whether To Have An Independent Trip Or A Small Group Tour

After settling on a destination, the next thing to decide is whether to travel independently or on an organized tour. Both have advantages, and depending on one's needs, one may be suitable over the other. There are many travel companies offering group travel. However, individuals must do thorough research before settling on the group tour. A midlife solo traveler will not want to share a bus with Gen Z party lovers. Think about convenience and logistics. A group tour may take most of the burden from a traveler since the trip is organized by someone else. But, one may lose independence and may not feel they belong.

Do both. Book a group tour for anchoring the trip, then travel independently once at the destination.

After deciding on the destination, start planning early. Look for flight prices and compare them to get a good deal. Prepare the most important travel documents to carry when traveling and plan how to navigate around after landing. Also, have a backup plan. Please note that things may sometimes go differently than planned. Flights can be delayed/canceled, and public transportation can go off schedule. Have all the information about flights and accommodation contacts. Then, think of a backup plan. If a taxi isn’t available, can one use a taxi? If the flight is delayed, carry an extra pair of essentials.

Work with a reasonable budget when planning.

RELATED: 10 Safety Tips To Be Aware Of When Traveling Alone

Find The Best And Cheapest Way Of Accessing Money Before Traveling

Technology has made it easier to access money and make payments from anywhere. Many destinations offer ATMs, and businesses these days accept cards. In some places, one will need to write cheques or wire transfers. Also, remember that cards are not equal, and some charge exorbitant fees, which can break the bank. For this reason, it’s best to get one of the best cards for travelers and also research cheap ways to access money when traveling.

Compare different forms of payment accepted in a destination and pick an affordable option.

Buy Travel Insurance

For first-time solo travelers, please note that the insurance of one’s home country isn’t accepted abroad. So, if a person gets hurt or falls sick and they have to be treated, or their items get lost or stolen, they will cater to the expenses themselves. But since that can be expensive, travel insurance can reduce the financial burden. In most cases, travelers don’t get injured or robbed when traveling, but it is always important to have travel insurance in case the worst happens.

Some credit cards provide enough coverage, so read the small print carefully.

RELATED: How To Choose The Right Travel Insurance Company When Planning Your Trip

Stay Connected

Traveling solo encourages independence, but please remember to stay connected with friends and family. Regardless of where one travels, they should always disclose their whereabouts to someone. Get a local SIM card upon arrival. It will make communication more straightforward, and navigating around will be more comfortable. One can use the SIM card to book an Uber and use Google Maps to their location.

Remember to share the new number with the most important people.

Do Something Unforgettable

Solo traveling allows one to be adventurous and try out something new. This is the perfect time to do things not part of the daily routine. Instead of everyday activities like swimming or relaxing on the beach, try watching whales or any water sport. There are many destinations with great whale-watching opportunities for solo travelers. Take pictures of the details in a place, even if they are minimal. Have something to look back on and recall that destination.

Bring a selfie stick to help get different angles.

I visit Universal Orlando several times a year. Here are my top 10 tips for first-timers.

I’ll never forget walking out of Universal Islands of Adventure in 2022, drenched from head to toe after riding Popeye & Bluto's Bilge-Rat Barge . 

It was my first trip back to Universal Orlando Resort in years, and I learned some things the hard way, which I gladly shared with fellow travelers, hoping that they’d avoid my mistakes .

Since then, I’ve had the opportunity to visit the Florida resort several times a year. And while I stand by my earlier tips, I’ve learned a few others.

Here are my top tips for first-timers visiting Universal Orlando.

1.  Stay on property

From RV parks to vacation rentals, there’s no shortage of places to stay in Central Florida, but it can pay to stay on property when visiting Universal Orlando. Not only are prices comparable to off-property hotels with Endless Summer Surfside and Dockside starting at $99 a night, but all of Universal’s resort hotels offer 30 minutes of early entry to select parks, which vary depending on time of year. 

They also provide free resort transportation, so you can get back to your room fairly quickly after a long park day or for a midday break. That free transportation can be clutch in the mornings, particularly at pricier Loews Sapphire Falls , Loews Royal Pacific , Loews Portofino Bay , and Hard Rock Hotel , which offer water taxis that drop you off closer to the parks than you can get arriving by car or bus. Cabana Bay Beach Resort and Aventura Hotel guests can walk over to Sapphire Falls for water taxis, but the extra time and steps added may make it not worth skipping the resort shuttle bus.

Walking paths are also available to the parks from every resort hotel except the Endless Summer ones. Cabana Bay guests also have a dedicated walking path to Universal’s Volcano Bay water park.

Guests staying at Royal Pacific, Portofino Bay and Hard Rock also get free Universal Express Passes , which dramatically cut waits for most rides and normally start at $79.99 per person. Free package delivery is also available to all resort hotels, if guests don’t want to lug park purchases around all day.

Epic Universe details revealed: What's coming to Universal Orlando next year

2. Buy a popcorn bucket

Snacking at the parks can get expensive. Guests are welcome to bring their own snacks, but there’s one crowd-pleaser that won’t break the bank. 

A plain popcorn bucket costs a little over $12, and you can keep getting refills throughout your trip. Refills cost around $2 each, making popcorn among the cheapest, most shareable snacks on property. On our last trip, my family and I got multiple refills for the price of one pretzel with cheese dip.

3.  Bring a light, refillable water bottle

Staying hydrated is always important, particularly on hot park days. 

You can fill water bottles with free ice-cold water at any of the many Coca-Cola Freestyle machines across the property. Cups of ice water are also available for free anywhere dispensed soft drinks are sold.

Leave big double-walled stainless steel tumblers at home. Not only will they feel heavy, carrying them around all the day, but if they aren’t leak-proof, they’ll make a mess when you tip them on their sides to fit in lockers for thrill rides.

4. Bring a medium-sized bag to carry your stuff

Numerous attractions, from Jurassic World VelociCoaster to Men in Black Alien Attack , require guests to store loose articles in lockers provided for the duration of the ride. 

I previously recommended keeping most of your things together to avoid having to empty every pocket each time. That’s still true, but I want to add a caveat on size. 

The free lockers aren’t very big. They can fit a Loungefly-style mini backpack or empty popcorn bucket, if you squish them down, but they’re not large enough for packed full-size backpacks. Keep that in mind unless you want to pay for larger lockers.

5. Bring ponchos

Ponchos don’t take a lot of space and can save you from getting soaked like me on Popeye & Bluto's Bilge-Rat Barge, Dudley Do-Right’s Rip Saw Falls , and Jurassic Park River Adventure .

Even if you skip water rides, ponchos are good to keep on hand for rainy park days.

6. Use single-rider lines 

Many attractions have a single-rider lane. If you’re traveling alone or don’t mind your party being split up, you can save time using the single-rider lane, if it’s open. They’re not always offered.

It doesn’t guarantee a short wait, but it’s usually shorter. On our latest trip, my middle schooler still waited at least 45 minutes for The Incredible Hulk Coaster and an hour for Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit . That was about as long as the regular standby wait for Hulk but shorter than the standby wait for Rip Ride Rockit.

The following attractions have single-rider lanes, though availability varies.

Universal Studios Florida

• E.T. Adventure
• Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts
• Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit
• Men in Black Alien Attack
• Revenge of the Mummy
• The Simpsons Ride
• Transformers: The Ride-3D

Universal Islands of Adventure

• Doctor Doom's Fearfall
• Dudley Do-Right's Ripsaw Falls
• Hagrid's Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure
• Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey
• Jurassic Park River Adventure
• Jurassic World VelociCoaster
• The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man
• The Incredible Hulk Coaster

7. Use child swap 

If someone in your party doesn’t meet ride requirements for an attraction or simply wants to sit it out, you can ask for a child swap. It’s particularly helpful for families with young children because it allows parents and caregivers to take turns riding the ride and staying with whoever is sitting it out.

On our most recent trip, my youngest didn’t want to ride Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure , so we all waited in line together, but then she and I peeled off to a designated waiting room while my middle schooler and mother-in-law went on the ride. When they were done, my mother-in-law stayed with my youngest while I went on the ride. My middle schooler lucked out, getting to ride it twice.

Not all attractions have waiting rooms, but they all offer swaps. Just let team members know you need one.

8. Take breaks

Theme parks can be exhausting. Not only are you on your feet all day, but they can be loud, crowded and overstimulating. 

When possible, I like to plan for at least one sit-down meal in the day. This way, I can take my time and recuperate in air conditioning away from crowds. I’ll typically splurge on one table-service meal, but there are several medium-priced, quick-service restaurants across both theme parks where you can grab a lighter snack and relax.

Really, any cool spot where you can sit down works. Knockturn Alley in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter - Diagon Alley at Universal Studios Florida is always refreshing, though dark. Jurassic Park Discovery Center in Islands of Adventure is a great place for kids to explore while adults unwind. 

9.  Watch the shows

Rides get a lot of the love, but Universal Orlando’s live entertainment is top tier. You can find showtimes on the free resort app or simply stop to watch performances you stumble across while roaming the parks.

The only year-round shows with dedicated seating are at Universal Studios Florida: Animal Actors On Location! , The Bourne Stuntacular , and Universal Orlando’s Horror Make-Up Show, which is more funny than scary.

10. Let little ones stretch their legs

There are several play areas across both theme parks for little ones to burn off energy.

This summer, a new DreamWorks Land will open at Universal Studios Florida with a “Kung Fu Panda”-themed play area.

At Islands of Adventure, kids can explore Camp Jurassic in Jurassic Park, If I Ran a Zoo in Seuss Landing, and Me Ship, The Olive in Toon Lagoon. There are also splash pads and water features across Toon Lagoon; just make sure to either bring swimsuits or backup clothes for those.

Bonus: Don’t sleep on Volcano Bay

You’ll definitely want to pack swimsuits if you’re heading to Volcano Bay, which regularly ranks among the best water parks in the country and adds a completely different experience to vacations.

It’s themed like a tropical paradise, with plenty of trees and an iconic volcano that houses multiple water slides. The water park can get crowded, but you never spend too much time standing in line because every guest gets a Tapu Tapu wearable bracelet that lets them join one virtual queue at a time. 

Single-day tickets start at $80, which is considerably less than the $119 starting price for guests age 10 and up at Universal Studios Florida or Islands of Adventure, but still not cheap. However, if you’re already planning to buy multi-day tickets for both theme parks, tacking on Volcano Bay is not much more.

Your last-minute guide to Monday's total solar eclipse

A total solar eclipse will cross North America on Monday , offering millions a rare opportunity to see afternoon skies temporarily darken as the moon blocks the face of the sun.

Tune into NBC News NOW as Lester Holt hosts a two-hour special at 2 p.m. ET Monday from Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

The eclipse's path fortuitously cuts across Mexico, 15 U.S. states and a small part of eastern Canada. In all other states in the continental U.S., viewers will be treated to a partial solar eclipse, with the moon appearing to take a bite out of the sun and obscuring part of its light.

Here’s everything you need to know about the rare celestial event.

What is a solar eclipse?

Solar eclipses occur when the sun, moon and Earth align. The moon passes between Earth and sun, temporarily blocking the sun’s light and casting a shadow on Earth.

A total solar eclipse is when the moon fully obscures the sun, whereas a partial solar eclipse means it blocks just a portion of the sun’s face.

Solar eclipses occur only with the new moon. Because the moon’s orbit around Earth is tilted, the three bodies don’t always line up in a way that creates an eclipse.

“Imagine if the moon’s orbit were in the plane of Earth’s orbit around the sun — if that were the case, then every new moon, you’d have a total solar eclipse and every full moon, you’d have a lunar eclipse,” Neil DeGrasse Tyson, director of the Hayden Planetarium at the American Museum of Natural History, told NBC News. “So, because things don’t always align, it lends to the rarity of the event and the specialness of the event.”

Where and when will the eclipse be visible?

This year’s eclipse will follow a slightly wider path over more populated areas of the continental U.S. than other total solar eclipses have in the recent past.

NASA estimates that 31.6 million people live within what’s known as the path of totality, where the total solar eclipse will be visible. An additional 150 million people live within 200 miles of the path, according to the agency.

The path travels through Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine. Tiny parts of Michigan and Tennessee will also be able to witness totality if conditions are clear.

After the eclipse crosses into Canada, it will pass over southern Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island and Cape Breton, at the eastern end of Nova Scotia.

Those outside the path of totality can still take part in the astronomical event by viewing a partial solar eclipse — visible throughout all 48 states of the contiguous U.S. — or a NASA livestream.

The timing, including how long totality lasts, depends on the location, but some spots will see the moon fully cover the sun for up to 4 minutes and 28 seconds.

Below is a list of timings for some cities along the path of totality, as  provided by NASA . A number of other resources, including NationalEclipse.com  and  TimeandDate.com , can also help people plan.

• Dallas: Partial eclipse begins at 12:23 p.m. CT and totality at 1:40 p.m.
• Little Rock, Arkansas: Partial eclipse begins at 12:33 p.m. CT and totality at 1:51 p.m.
• Cleveland: Partial eclipse begins at 1:59 p.m. ET and totality at 3:13 p.m.
• Buffalo, New York: Partial eclipse begins at 2:04 p.m. ET and totality at 3:18 p.m.
• Lancaster, New Hampshire: Partial eclipse begins at 2:16 p.m. ET and totality at 3:27 p.m.

How to safely view a solar eclipse

It is never safe to gaze directly at the sun, even when it is partly or mostly covered by the moon. Special eclipse glasses or  pinhole projectors  are required to safely view solar eclipses and prevent eye damage. Failing to take the proper precautions can result in severe eye injury,  according to NASA .

Eclipse glasses are thousands of times darker than normal sunglasses and specially made to enable wearers to look at the sun during these kinds of celestial events.

Sky-watchers should also never view any part of the sun through binoculars, telescopes or camera lenses unless they have specific solar filters attached. Eclipse glasses should not be used with these devices, as they will not provide adequate protection.

However, during the few minutes of totality, when the moon is fully blocking the sun, it is safe to look with the naked eye.

Beware of fake eclipse glasses. On legitimate pairs, the lenses should have a silver appearance on the front and be black on the inside. The manufacturer’s name and address should be clearly labeled, and they should not be torn or punctured. Check, as well, for the ISO logo and the code “IS 12312-2” printed on the inside.

If you don’t have eclipse glasses, you can make a homemade pinhole projector, which lets sunlight in through a small hole, focuses it and projects it onto a piece of paper, wall or other surface to create an image of the sun that is safe to look at. 

All you need is two pieces of white cardboard or plain white paper, aluminum foil and a pin or thumbtack. Cut a 1- to 2-inch square or rectangle out of the center of a piece of white paper or cardboard. Tape aluminum foil over that cut-out shape, then use a pin or thumbtack to poke a tiny hole in the foil.

During the eclipse, place a second piece of white paper or cardboard on the ground as a screen and hold the projector with the foil facing up and your back to the sun. Adjusting how far you hold the projector from the second piece of paper will alter the size of the image on the makeshift screen.

What to look for while viewing the total solar eclipse

For people along the path of totality, there are some fun milestones to keep track of as the total solar eclipse unfolds.

As the eclipse progresses and the sun gets thinner in the sky, it will start to get eerily dark, according to Tyson.

When the last beams of sunlight are about to become obscured, look out for the “diamond ring effect”: The sun’s atmosphere will appear as an illuminated halo, and the last light still visible will look like the diamond of a giant ring.

As the sunlight decreases even further, an effect known as Baily’s beads will be created by the moon’s rugged terrain. Tiny “beads” of light will be visible for only a few seconds around the dark moon, as the last bits of sunlight peer through the moon’s mountains and valleys.

When the moon is fully blocking the sun, it is safe to remove eclipse glasses and look at the total solar eclipse with the naked eye.

Some lucky sky-watchers may even catch a glimpse of a comet .

Comet 12P/Pons-Brooks — nicknamed the “ devil comet ” because an eruption last year left it with two distinct trails of gas and ice in the shape of devil horns — is currently visible from the Northern Hemisphere as it swings through the inner solar system.

The comet can be seen in the early evenings by gazing toward the west-northwest horizon. During the eclipse, when skies darken during totality, it may be possible to see the comet near Jupiter, but its visibility will depend on whether it’s in the middle of an outburst and thus brighter than normal.

Most likely, all eyes will be on the alignment of the moon and sun.

“Most people won’t even notice,” Tyson said. “But if you know to look, it’s there.”

When is the next solar eclipse?

The next total solar eclipse will be in 2026, but it will mostly pass over the Arctic Ocean, with some visibility in Greenland, Iceland, Portugal and northern Spain. In 2027, a total solar eclipse will be visible in Spain and a swath of northern Africa.

The next total solar eclipse visible from North America will be in 2033, but only over Alaska. Then in 2044, a total solar eclipse will cross Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, parts of Canada and Greenland.

The next total solar eclipse to cross the continental U.S. coast-to-coast in will occur in 2045. The path of totality for that eclipse will cut through California, Nevada, Utah, Colorado, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Kansas, Texas, Arkansas, Missouri, Mississippi, Louisiana, Alabama, Georgia and Florida.

Denise Chow is a reporter for NBC News Science focused on general science and climate change.

Lucas Thompson is a content producer for the NBC News Climate Unit.