travel hacks paris

Paris Travel Guide

Paris Travel Hacks

Tips, hacks, and mistakes to avoid during your visit to Paris. This is all you need to make your stay much easier, safer, and more pleasant.

There are plenty of mistakes that you can make when travelling, plenty of things you didn’t know that could have made your life that much easier had you known them. All the little tricks, hacks, and tips that you learn after your first visit.

Well, we’ve made all of those mistakes before and learnt all the little things on our visits to Paris. And now we want to share them with you so that they can make your holiday easier.

Plan your trip at the right time

The best time to visit is in late spring (May-June) or in early autumn (September-October). The weather is not cold but not particularly hot either and there aren’t that many tourists compared to the summer or Christmas time.

It’s not a tragedy if you don’t end up visiting at this time, but try your best if you can. If you’d like to know more about the climate in Paris and what to pack for each season, you can read our dedicated article.

Avoid queues

There is a lot to see in Paris: world-renowned museums, interesting exhibitions, and magnificent monuments. So you don’t want to waste time in long queues.

A little French

Or just brush up on it a bit. You don’t have to be fluent or even be able to have a conversation. It’s just a matter of knowing a few kind words. Using a couple of key French phrases can go a long way. For example, always greet the shopkeepers as you step into an establishment.

That said, it’s safe to assume the people you interact with know more English than you know French, so don’t be afraid, the shopkeeper is indeed going to understand you.

If you want to know some useful phrases (with pronunciation), you can check out our dedicated article.

Have some cash on you

Keep some cash on you for smaller purchases. While anything above €10.00 can normally be paid for by card (Visa or Mastercard are preferable), you should have some change on you for the little things, like a coffee or a croissant .

Avoid currency exchange bureaus

It’s usually more convenient to withdraw money directly in euros from an ATM, rather than exchanging currency. If you have cash on you that you need to exchange, do it at a bank. They will use whatever the correct rate is at the moment, and that will be much cheaper than doing it at a currency exchange bureau.

French manners

The French care about manners, they have specific etiquette for their interactions. It includes being reserved (being overtly outgoing comes across as being invasive), respecting personal space, and being polite or even formal when needed.

However, if they feel that is not being respected, they will let you know with their attitude. This is generally where people get the feeling that French people are aloof and don’t like anyone.

It’s also important to know that there are a lot of tourists in Paris, so the tolerance might be a bit low for rude visitors. Do greet shopkeepers, waiters, and clerks, and try to use the right words when interacting with people - bonjour, bonsoir, merci, excuse-moi , all that.

Choose for yourself

Don’t be pressured into thinking you have to see do everything. Unless you are staying for a few weeks, you won’t get to see it all. Just choose the kind of things that interest you the most and go for those.

If you want to check all the most important attractions and neighbourhoods in Paris so that you can pick what you like best, check out our dedicated article.

Pick your battles at the Louvre

The Louvre is too much. It would take several days of visiting it to see everything, which some people do. If you don’t have time for that, just look up what you can find inside and go straight for that .

Be aware of meal times

If you rely on restaurants for your meals, know that most of them have stricter timetables than you might be used to. They generally serve lunch between midday and 2:30 pm and dinner between 7:30 pm and 11:00 pm.

If you want to eat outside of those times, you should go to a supermarket, a small fast-food place, or a bakery where you can get a sandwich made with fresh bread.

Make reservations

If you want to go to a nice restaurant in a busy area, try to make a reservation. Some restaurants don’t take any, but many others do and you’ll avoid waiting. But please, do show up on time.

Reserve some time for doing nothing

Integrate some free time in your plans and avoid overpacking your schedule. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by everything there is to do in Paris. Unfortunately, if you try to tick every attraction off the list, you’ll end up with tachycardia and more stress than you had before your holiday. So take some time to just wander about and relax.

Be aware of pickpockets

Paris is full of pickpockets, so don’t make it easier for them. It’s not like you’re going to get robbed as soon as you step out of the airport, but it can happen. The best thing you can do to keep your things safe is to always have an eye on your stuff and be aware of your surroundings.

If you’d like to know more about how safe Paris is and how to make sure you avoid pickpocketing, you can check out our dedicated article.

The right shoes are key

When you’re packing for your Paris trip, it might seem tempting to bring pretty shoes so that you look perfectly fashionable in all your pictures. A bit less tempting when your big toe is blistered and your right foot is achy from walking weirdly just to avoid stepping on the aforementioned blister.

Do your future self and their feet a favour and wear comfortable shoes, especially if you’re going to stay out and walk around all day. Cobblestone streets and steep hills can be pretty cruel to your feet.

Free entries

Museums in Paris are free on the first Sunday of each month. This is of course a very busy time, so we wouldn’t recommend cramming lots of visits on this day. You would end up exhausted and not having been able to see much.

Try to go early in the morning before a lot of people arrive, and pick one or two museums at most.

Book your accommodation early

Accommodation is going to take the biggest slice of your budget. If you want to minimise the costs, booking in advance is the best course of action. You can find and reserve your accommodation here directly .

Don’t dismiss the possibility of rain

Bring rain-friendly clothes. Even though it’s not highly publicised, France - and Paris in particular - can be quite rainy. Chances are you are underestimating the likelihood of rain on your holiday.

Come with sensible clothes and you won’t be caught unprepared. You’d be surprised by how all shops that sell umbrellas seem to vanish exactly when you most need them.

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• Travel Tips

Top 24 Paris Travel Tips | The Best Hacks on Budget Travel, Sight-Seeing, & More

Paris, being one of the most popular dream destinations in the whole world, is often an overwhelming outing to plan and execute. With the innumerable experiences you can have, come innumerable suggestions. Here are the Top 25 Paris travel tips and hacks.

24 Essential Paris Travel Tips & Hacks

1. Visit off the peak season

Best time to visit tip.

• If you’d like to encounter more locals than tourists, a trip between October and April works best.
• The city is extremely crowded in the peak season (generally the summer). This means longer queues, packed streets and limited availability of tickets.

2. Prepare for late dinners

• Parisians generally have their dinner after 8 PM, which can even go up to 9:30 PM.
• Due to this, many restaurants don’t open until around 7 PM, so you might want to keep some snacks handy for the evenings. 

3. Look out for your metro stations

Transport tip.

• An important thing to remember while traveling is that not all metro lines announce the station on arrival.
• To avoid missing your stop, keep looking out of the window or keep track of the stations you’ve passed.

4. Covered passages are your best friends

Getting around tip.

• Paris is known for its erratic and heavy rains. Luckily, if you forget an umbrella, there are around 20 Covered Passages mainly around the 2nd, 9th and 10th arrondissements.
• They are really pretty and also have shops and cafes.

5. Don’t underestimate “Bonjour”

Etiquette tip.

• It is considered extremely rude if you don’t greet with “bonjour” on entering a shop, or don’t say “au revoir” or “merci” when leaving.
• Greetings are taken very seriously in Paris, so make sure to learn some French phrases beforehand.

6. Use public transport as much as you can

• Taxis and rental cars are too expensive in Paris. The network of public transport is really well laid out and takes you almost everywhere, cheaply and conveniently!
• Not to forget, it makes your experience more ‘homely’, just like a local.

7. Visit museums for free on the first Sunday

• Some of the city’s top museums like The Orsay, and even The Louvre have free entry on the first Sunday of the month.
• Plan your visit around the first week of the month to save yourself some bucks!

8. Tips are not an obligation in Paris

• Unlike a lot of other western countries, tipping culture in Paris is much less prominent.
• A 15% service charge is levied on each item that you order, and servers and waiters get benefits like paid leave, health care, living wage.

9. Book your accommodation in advance

Accommodation tip.

• With such a huge inflow of tourists every year, finding a vacancy in your desired hotel is always toilsome, especially if you delay it for the last moment.
• Make sure to book well in advance to not end up compromising.

10. A Seine cruise is unmissable!

Sight-seeing tip.

• Be it morning, evening or night, one of the most worthwhile experiences is enjoying Paris floating along the river Seine on a beautiful cruise.
• There are plenty of options for short or long trips, with a hearty meal.

11. Remember that you can’t see everything on one trip

• With Paris having so much to offer, don’t feel guilty if you’re not able to fit everything in your itinerary (even if they’re “must-sees”).
• It is alright to skip some places and enjoy the ones you visit properly instead.

12. Shop at the flea market

Shopping tip.

• Explore one of the world’s largest flea markets, Les Puces and hunt for some dirt cheap souvenirs.
• Moreover, wandering through this popular market, admiring the sprawling alleyways and stands is quite a fun and adventurous experience.

13. Avoid common tourist traps

• With so many tourists, come so many scams. Stay away from people on the streets offering you bracelets or roses, or those who approach you asking if you know English.
• Try to skip cafes and restaurants close to main attractions.

14. Pack comfortable footwear

Packing tip.

• Once you are in Paris, you realize how much you need to walk. Combine that with the cobblestone laden streets, and you’ll miss your comfy shoes over those fancy sandals.
• Be wise and practical, and pack some good shoes.

15. Don’t dress like a tourist

Fashion tip.

• One thing that some Parisian locals look down on is tourists dressed in gaudy, “touristy” clothes.
• You can leave the bold prints, high heels and fancy dresses away, and pack some comfortable and neutral clothes like jeans and T-shirts.

16. Take your IDs everywhere

• Many Parisian attractions offer discounts, and sometimes even free entry to students, seniors, EU residents and youths, depending on the place.
• Major museums, the metro and even the Eiffel tower offer such discounts, so check them out before you visit.

17. Go picnicking

• There are plenty of parks, greenspaces and picnic spots like the Parc des Buttes Chaumont , Square du Vert-Galant and Champ de Mars .
• Grab some local baguettes, assorted cheese and meat to skip the expensive restaurants for an enchanting experience.

18. Get travel insurance

• Travel insurance becomes all the more important in tourist cities like Paris, with so many scammers and pickpockets lurking around to prey on tourists.
• The peace of mind that the insurance brings is definitely worth the cost.

19. Explore at a slow pace

• Paris might tempt you to cover as many spots as possible in one go, making you rush your visits.
• To fully enjoy your experience, grab a map, mark some major places you want to visit and spend some quality time there.

20. The Louvre can be overwhelming

• Being the largest art museum in the world and housing over 35,000 artworks, it’s not even possible to watch the major artworks, let alone the entire museum in one visit.
• Plan your visit in advance to not get overwhelmed.

21. Stay close to major attractions

• Time is money on a vacation. Book a central hotel, close to the attractions that you want to visit.
• You’ll end up spending too much time traveling around if you reside a bit far from the central locations.

22. Don’t prioritize going up the Eiffel Tower

• This might sound surprising, but there are far better views of the majestic Parisian skyline than from the top of Eiffel Tower.
• Some of the best viewing spots include the Arc de Triomphe , Montparnasse Tower , Notre Dame and many more. They are easier to access, and less time-consuming especially if you're visiting for a short while.

23. Cover up inside churches

• To be respectful, it is a general practice to cover your shoulders and knees inside Parisian churches.
• This might not be mentioned outside explicitly, but is definitely a good practice. Also, keep your voice down.

24. Sale season in June and January

• Shops are only permitted to have sales twice a year - June and January.
• If the major purpose of your visit is shopping, plan it in these months to make some incredible bargains. This sale season is called “Les Soldes”.

Top Experiences in Paris

Frequently asked questions about paris travel tips & hacks.

Keep your ticket until you leave the train stations, Keep your belongings safe from pickpockets, Stand on the right hand side of the escalators.

Explore more wonderful museums than just the Louvre, Try to get skip-the-line tickets wherever available, Don’t try to cover all the attractions in one or two days.

If you’re going for the first time, try staying close to the main attractions, Consider living in an Airbnb, Book your accommodation in advance for better prices.

Entry to most major museums is free on the first Sunday of the month , Drink wine instead of soft drinks because it’s often cheaper, Take public transport instead of Taxis.

Avoid talking to random people who approach you asking if you speak English, Avoid the unsafe and non family friendly areas, Stay away from restaurant patios as they’re full of cigarette smoke.

Plan your itinerary practically to avoid getting overwhelmed and spending too much time at one place, Learn some common French phrases, Pack comfortable shoes, Paris is full of walking.

When traveling for the first time, don’t be afraid to ask for help, the locals are generally very helpful. Make sure to soak in the history and beauty of the museums, monuments, food and other localities. All in all, make the most out of your visit and you’ll not leave disappointed. 

Though not considered rude, you're not required to leave a tip in Paris. The price of each item includes a 15% service fee in all cafes, restaurants and bars. Moreover, all the servers get a full wage and benefits like health care, living wage etc.

Even though there are plenty of good itineraries for short trips to Paris, it is recommended to spend at least four days there to have enough time for world-class attractions as well as some hidden gems. Some extra days can call for great day trips like Disneyland.

On your first visit to Paris, it is a good choice to stay close to the main landmarks. Grab a map and mark all the attractions you plan on seeing. Then find a place that’s in close vicinity of most of them.

With all the glam, yes, you should expect Paris to be more on the expensive side as compared to other European cities. However, there's something for everyone, and plenty of options to consider for a budget trip.

Yes! It’s absolutely normal to wear jeans in Paris. It’s all about comfort. Apart from a lot of locals that wear jeans, there are also tourists aplenty who can be spotted in jeans all around the city.

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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50+ Paris Travel Tips You Need to Know Before Visiting

By: Author Sophie Nadeau

Posted on Last updated: 10th February 2024

Categories Paris

Last Updated on 10th February 2024 by Sophie Nadeau

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

First time in Paris?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best Paris travel tips

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Saturday 22nd of July 2023

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

Nicola Costa

Wednesday 15th of March 2023

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

Sophie Nadeau

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

Ashley Lillie

Thursday 18th of November 2021

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

come & stay

Tuesday 12th of October 2021

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

Saturday 14th of December 2019

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

Paris in 2 days: Everything you need to see during a 2 day trip to Paris

By: Author Monica

Categories Blog , France

Can you see Paris in 2 days? Yes you can! There is so much to see and do in this gorgeous city so I’ve created a list of the best things to see in Paris in 2 days.

Of course, there are a million more things to see in Paris but you won’t want to miss these top sights and attractions. I’ve included my handy travel hacks to make the most of the short time you have. You won’t want to waste your 2 days in Paris standing in queues or getting lost in the crowds so keep reading to see how you can see Paris in 2 days.

Paris is the type of city that will keep drawing you back for the rest of your life. It is ever-evolving yet still manages to regain its significant, historical and nostalgic charm. There are secrets and excitement hiding around every corner, tucked away in each nook and cranny, known only by an unheard whisper on the street.

I’ve visited Paris so many times and in all different seasons and I love it so much. Most of my trips to Paris have been short so I’m here to confirm that you can see a lot in Paris in 2 days!

For those of you visiting Paris for the first time it is all about feasting your eyes upon the must-sees, and then of course preserving their memory in the form of a selfie!

Here are the attractions you need to visit to see the best of Paris in 2 days

#1. the louvre.

Nobody can come to Paris without paying a visit to one of the largest museums in the world! Home of course to the timeless Mona Lisa. The exquisite beauty found within The Louvre’s many walls is matched entirely by its grandeur and flamboyance outside and above ground. The Glass Pyramid is the museum’s latest icon which by night omits an almost mystical quality.

Travel Hack Tip: The Louvre stays open until 9.45pm on Wednesday and Friday evenings so I highly recommend visiting at night. Arrive after 6pm and there will be fewer crowds and you’ll also see the pyramid looking gorgeous when it’s all lit up. You won’t miss out on anything by not visiting during daylight so you’ll get more out of your short visit to Paris.

Tickets: I highlight recommend pre-booking skip the line tickets for the Louvre . You’ll have a reserved ticket for a specific time so you won’t be waiting in the queue!

#2. Notre Dame

The Notre Dame was devastated by a tragic fire in 2019 that destroyed the iconic cathedral. So you may be wondering why you’d still visit it if you’re aiming to see the best of Paris in 2 days but you can still see the impressive building from the outside. 

Set on the banks of the River Seine, Notre Dame encompasses myth and fairy tale, whilst presenting one of the finest examples of French Gothic architecture in the city and it’s definitely still worth seeing!

#3. Eiffel Tower from afar

The Eiffel Tower is the most-visited paid monument in the world and the city’s most prominent symbol. Offering incredible views from the ground and from the sky, this is one attraction you can’t miss. Although, controversially, I don’t recommend getting too close or attempting to go up the Eiffel Tower!

The crowds are the Eiffel Tower are crazy and the area is known for pickpockets and thieves. What’s more, the iconic tower is best observed from a distance and it’s much more beautiful when you can see the whole tower with the backdrop of the city behind it.

I recommend viewing the Eiffel Tower from Montparnasse Tower which was once the tallest skyscraper in Paris. It has an observation deck on the 56th floor and you can see the whole city from the terrace. I love going up here just before sunset and you can stand there and sip champagne as you watch the city come to life with twinkling lights.

Alternatively, view the Eiffel Tower from Champ de Mars which is the perfect place for a picnic where you can peer over you shoulder every now and then at a world icon!

Read more: The best sunset views in Paris

#4. Arc de Triomphe

A monument to honour those who for fought and died in the French Revolution and Napoleonic Wars, The Arc de Triomphe is another of Paris’ most famous icons. Walking up the Champs-Elysees and witnessing the Arc from afar is an incredible experience. Frequently used as a setting for great celebrations and demonstrations, The Arc De Triomphe is often seen as the pivotal location in the city of Paris.

#5. Sacre Coeur

Sacre Coeur is a church perched upon the highest point in the city of Paris. From the front of the church spectacular views of the city are on offer. Sacre Coeur is dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus, and is an important religious, cultural and political city landmark.

Travel Hack Tip: As you’d expect, Sacre Coeur gets very busy so I recommend getting up early and visiting as early as you possibly can. The dream would be to visit at sunrise, but that’s going to take a lot of dedication to seeing the best of Paris in 2 days! But you can sleep when you get home and you’ll definitely thank yourself later – especially if you pack some baked goodies to enjoy when you get to the top!

#6. Pere Lachaise Cemetery

Pere Lachaise is the most visited cemetery in the world and is the final resting place for over 1 million people; amongst them lay Oscar Wilde, Jim Morrison and Frederic Chopin. The grounds are packed with ornate grave stones, extravagant crypts and beautiful tree-lined lanes, which omit a strangely warm and peaceful atmosphere.

Travel Hack Tip: You might be surprised by how much interesting history can be found in this graveyard so if you’ve got time I highly recommend taking a walking tour to find more about the famous final resting place for so many incredible people.

#7. River Seine boat trip

One of the best ways to view some of Paris’ most famous sights is from the water. Floating down another of the city’s gems, the River Seine provides an alternate viewpoint for visitors hoping to catch more than just a glimpse of sought-after landmarks. Most boat tours take an hour and allow you some time to put your feet up and relax after a busy morning exploring. It’s a really nice way to keep seeing the city without tiring yourself out!

Travel Hack Tip: If you’re short on time, why not combine you River Seine boat trip with your dinner plans and have a fancy dinner during your cruise!? It’s an extra treat and a meal you won’t forget! Click here for a River Seine dinner cruise .

#8. Palace of Versailles

Although this sight is technically outside of Paris, it is still reachable by the city’s public transport network. The Palace of Versailles is the home of the French Royals. It is an extravagant, luxurious building that possesses just as much beauty and glamour as it does significance as a symbol of France’s absolute monarchy.

Travel Hack Tip: If you’re short on time and don’t fancy wasting time negotiating Paris’ public transport then book skip the line tickets with a transfer from Paris included .

#9. Palais Garnier

As the famous setting of Gaston Leroux’s novel The Phantom of the Opera , Palais Garnier is considered one of the most famous opera houses in the world. It is a 19 th century masterpiece of theatre architecture, one which took almost 15 years to construct. The house’s grand staircase and grand foyer have to be seen to be believed.

#10. Visit Paris’ parks and gardens

Finally, I bring you Paris’ parks and gardens, the perfect place to relax after a long day strolling around Paris. Jardin du Luxembourg is the city’s second largest park and is home to the French Senate which is housed in Luxembourg Palace. The garden is full of green, grassy spaces – a great setting to pull up a deckchair, grab an ice cream and relive your Paris experience in the form of a relaxing and slightly less hectic daydream.

Another notable park is Jardin des Tuileries which you’ll find near the Louvre and the Arc de Triomphe.

There you have it, 10 of my favourite things to see if you’re short on time when you visit Paris. I highly recommend plotting everything you’d like to see into a Google Map to help you navigate the city and cluster all of the attractions you’d like to see together.

Here’s an example itinerary to show how I’d see all of these things in Paris in 2 days, supposing you arrive on a Friday afternoon and leave on a Sunday afternoon.

• Friday evening – The Lourve
• Saturday morning – Sacre Coeur for sunrise and have breakfast at the top
• Palais Garnier
• Arc de Triomphe – quick selfie!
• Walk down to the River Seine and admire the Eiffel Tower from across the river
• Jardin des Tuileries for coffee and ice creams
• Notre Dame – quick stop
• Saturday evening – Montparnasse Tower
• Sunday morning – Pere Lachaise cemetery
• Palace of Versailles

When it’s typed out like that, it definitely seems like a squeeze but it’s definitely possible! This itinerary for 2 days in Paris may require taking taxis to speed up your transfer times between attractions. I’ve put Palace of Versailles as the last attraction to see because it’s so far out of the city. It’s gorgeous and well worth visiting but it can be skipped if you run out of time. There’s always next time!

You can read all of my Paris blog posts here

This is my favourite place to stay in Paris at Citadines Suites .

Here’s how to have a relaxing weekend in Paris

And finally – read this before you go – Travel Hacks for your first time in Paris

Totalsights

Friday 19th of March 2021

Some great choices here Monica, it does indeed look like a squeeze but a very very enjoyable one im sure. Such an iconic city and the sights named are a must, for sure.

44 Paris Travel Tips – Top Hacks for Your French Adventure

• Post author: Naddya
• Post category: City Travel
• Post published: October 14, 2020

Are you traveling to Paris and looking for the best tricks and hacks to navigate the French capital?

Do you love exploring vibrant cities with spectacular art museums and historical monuments as an independent traveler?

Then this guide with 44 Paris travel tips will help you enjoy the City of Lights to the fullest.

From the best way to connect with locals to the coolest way to cruise the city’s attractions, and from the money-saving tips to the best neighborhoods to stay in, here is our tried-and-tested advice.

Browse the different categories using the navigation below.

Ready? Let’s dive right in.

Preparation – Things to Do Before You Go to Paris

Planning goes a long way when you’re visiting a place like Paris. You can easily get overwhelmed with all the available information. But don’t worry. In this section, we’ve prepared several travel tips on things to do before you go to Paris .

• Do you need a visa to travel to Paris? As you probably know, France is a member of the European Union and the Schengen Area. In case you possess a U.S. passport, valid for at least six more months, you can explore the country for up to 90 days visa-free. In any way, make sure you read the complete list of visa requirements here .
• The French aren’t rude. Many tourists report French people as rude. The truth? Tourists are the ones to blame. Instead of demanding that Parisians talk to you in English or whatever non-French language you speak, try to at least greet them in French. Want to show respect? We’ve prepared several common phrases for you:

• Is Paris safe to visit? Due to terrorist attacks and violent protests in recent years, Paris has stepped down a bit in the world safety ratings . Still, the French capital remains a very safe city to visit. With its 23 rd place in the 2019 report, it comes slightly behind London and just before Brussels and Barcelona . Our tip: take all the necessary precautions and use common sense, just as when exploring any other major tourist place.
• Book your tickets in advance. Waiting to enter museums and galleries in Paris – especially in high season – can eat up most of your precious travel time. Avoid the stress and pre-purchase skip-the-line tickets and guided tours to optimize your experience in Paris. (More about the available options in the Paris travel tips, which follow.)
• Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes. Your first instinct when packing your bag for Paris might be to take your fancy new shoes. Please don’t! It’s more important to be comfortable than fashionable. You’ll have to walk on cobblestone streets, climb stairs, roam museum galleries for hours, and cover a lot of ground. Trust us, we’ve made the mistake of dressing up for Paris and regretted it about two hours into a three-day trip. By the way, if you want to never again worry about what to pack for your trip, grab our trusty Travel Checklist .

Weather – When Is the Best Time to Visit Paris

Destination like Paris are always buzzing with tourists. That’s why you need to know the periods when you won’t need to bump into teems of people. In this section of our Paris travel tips, you’ll find information for each season, so you can easily decide when to visit .

• Spring in Paris is gorgeous with sunshine and occasional rain. The temperatures could be chilly, but the crowds are thinner than in the warmer months. And with all the blossoms and flowers throughout the city, your senses will be in for an aromatic and vibrant treat!
• Summer is warm but chock-full with tourists – only with tourists. Everyone and their mother wants to explore Paris in this season. However, it is usually hot and humid, which makes the queueing experience at attractions even less desirable than in other months. Apart from that, the whole city closes in August. Parisians go on vacations, leaving the city mainly to tourists. So, if we were you, we would stay away from Paris in the summer, too.
• In autumn, Paris may become grey and gloomy. The positive side is that fewer travelers choose to visit it in this part of the year. October and November are definitely the best time to roam the streets without the tourist masses.
• Winter in Paris, except during the holiday season, is quite lovely. The temperatures are rarely below freezing. Besides, you can warm yourself in cafés and museums. Dress in layers to balance the difference between the inside and outside temperatures.

Travel Tips About the Attractions: Explore Paris like a Pro

Want to explore the Parisian attractions like a pro ? These travel tips will give you all the secrets you need to know to avoid unnecessary queuing and disappointment.

Travel Tips About the Eiffel Tower

• If possible, try to visit the Eiffel Tower just before dark. This way, you can admire the fantastic view over Paris during day- and nighttime. And if you’re lucky, you might even get to see a magnificent sunset! The opening times are between 9:30 AM and 11:45 PM most of the year.
• Waiting times on-site can take hours. With 7 million yearly visitors, the Eiffel Tower is the world’s most-visited paid monument. If you are a smart travel planner, you should buy your ticket online in advance, especially if traveling in the summer. The elevator tickets to the higher levels of the Eiffel Tower sell out well in advance. Plan at least two hours to tour the tower, and even more if you decide to have a meal at one of the restaurants.
• Eiffel built himself an apartment on the top floor of the tower. It didn’t serve as his residence. Instead, he welcomed prominent visitors in the flat with the best location in Paris. Among his guests in the 1,076 sq. ft. (100 m 2 ) premises were kings and presidents, as well as world-renowned scientists. Today, wax figures of Gustave Eiffel in the company of his daughter and Thomas Edison will greet you in the architect’s apartment.

Travel Tips About the Louvre

• The Louvre is gigantic. Mona Lisa is tiny. Instead of queueing to get a short glimpse and a blurry shot of La Gioconda from 6 ft. (2 m) away, grab a map and find the other Leonardo masterpieces. They’re much easier to admire and don’t “hide” behind bulletproof glass.
• Optimize your time and only visit collections, which interest you. Our recommendation is to spend no more than two hours roaming the halls of the Louvre if you’re staying in Paris for up to three days. If your stay is longer, go nuts and spend half a day or even a full day in the largest art museum in the world!
• It’s perfectly fine to skip the Louvre. Don’t think for a second that everyone who’s ever visited Paris should go to the Louvre. If art isn’t your cup of tea, go check the building without entering! Naddya admits that the first time she was in Paris, she didn’t make it inside the Louvre either.
• Tickets purchased at the museum are cheaper than online. However, the online ticket guarantees quick entry. Follow the orange markings and get inside in less than 30 minutes. All tickets come with a pre-booked timeslot. If you miss it, you won’t be able to enter .
• The largest art museum in the world has multiple entrances. Currently, two of them are open. Individual visitors without a special card can only access the Louvre via the Pyramid . You join a queue based on the specific timeslot of your ticket. The Richelieu entrance is accessible to groups and visitors with special cards. These include Amis du Louvre, Louvre Pro, ICOM, Ministère de la Culture, Patrons Circle, etc. The Carrousel entrance is closed at the moment of writing this travel guide.
• The Louvre is closed on Tuesdays. The rest of the days, the opening hours are from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Keep in mind that rooms start closing at 5:30 PM.

Travel Tips About Notre-Dame de Paris

• Notre-Dame de Paris is the most visited attraction not only in Paris or France but also in Europe. According to the Paris Convention and Visitors Bureau , 12 million people visited the medieval cathedral each year. The reason for this interest doesn’t just come from it playing the main role in Victor Hugo’s The Hunchback of Notre-Dame . You can marvel at several masterpieces and important relics in the cathedral. These include:
• the Crown of Thorns , believed to be worn by Jesus before his crucifixion;
• a fragment of the cross on which he was supposedly crucified; and
• one of the Holy Nails , thought to have been used in the crucifixion.
• A fire on April 15, 2019 closed the cathedral to the public. The French authorities have promised to rebuild the architectural and historical monument within five years. Even if you can’t go inside, you can still admire the exterior of the 850+ years old Our Lady of Paris .
• The area around the Notre-Dame hides several other interesting sights. For example, Point Zero – the French road system’s starting spot and the official center of Paris– is located on the ground facing the main entrance of the cathedral. The bronze star has been sitting there since 1924. Its exact coordinates are 48.8534°N 2.3488°E.

Travel Tips About the Parisian Catacombs

• If you thought the Parisian Catacombs were an offbeat attraction, you couldn’t be more wrong. The lines in front of the ticket counters used to be longer than the ones for the Eiffel Tower admission. Currently, you can buy your tickets to the Parisian Catacombs only online.  Your entrance is restricted to a specific time slot. The good news is that if you manage to buy a last-minute ticket on the day of your visit, you’ll save €10.00 (almost $12.00) off the regular price.
• Visiting the Catacombs requires you to climb 200+ steps. The tunnels are about 65.6 ft. (20 m) deep – the equivalent of the height of a 7-story building. The tour covers 1.25 mi (2 km) and lasts approximately 45 min. The temperature is constantly 57° F (14°C) throughout the year. Now you know why one of our first Paris travel tips was to wear comfy shoes!

Money-Saving Travel Tips: How to Stretch Your Bucks in Paris

Even if you’re not traveling on a tight budget, we bet you wouldn’t mind stretching your bucks. Follow our money-saving Paris travel tips and save a bunch.

Note : In Paris – as in many places frequented by tourists – you can save either money or time, but you can’t save both at the same time. It’s up to you to decide which one you can spend more of.

• It is safe to drink tap water in Paris. French, EU, and international authorities (such as WHO) have labeled tap water safe for drinking. Parisian homes had indoor running water back in 1781. Nowadays, their water is much safer. Eau de Paris , the water supplier, tests 200+ samples daily to make sure the water remains potable. You can even order a carafe d’eau (pitch of water) at restaurants for free.
• Do you tip in Paris? You’ve probably asked yourself if you need to leave a tip on top of the bill. In Paris, a service fee ( servis compris ) is already included in your bill. So, it’s not expected of you to leave a tip. Still, if you’re happy with the service, round up the check and leave up to 10% more.
• Avoid eateries around tourist attractions. This Paris travel tip has to be obvious, but even Naddya has failed to follow it. The worst part isn’t the exorbitant prices but rather the disappointing quality of the served food. Check our food & drinks Paris tips below, as well as the food facts about Paris we’ve gathered.
• Young people can visit most Parisian attractions for free. This applies to everyone under 18 and to residents of the EU and EEA under 26 years. In addition, teachers, journalists, tourism professionals, disabled and war veterans, and their attendants, as well as job seekers, will gain free access if they provide proper identification.
• Many museums and galleries have free admission all year round. You don’t have to pay to visit their permanent collections. However, they charge for their special and temporary exhibitions. Here’s the list of the ones which are currently open:

• Musée Curie. The Curie Museum is located in the former laboratory of Marie Curie and is dedicated to radiological research. It showcases the different discoveries of the five-time Nobel Prize-winning family of scientists.
• Musée des Beaux-Arts de la Ville de Paris (Petit Palais). The Museum of Fine Arts in the “small palace” is dedicated to the history of art.
• Musée d’Art Moderne de la Ville de Paris. The Museum of Modern Art (aka MAM Paris) displays contemporary works from the 20 th and 21 st centuries.
• Atelier Brancusi – Musée National d’Art Moderne (Centre Pompidou). The studio of the Romanian sculptor Constantin Brancuci is as fascinating as his displayed artworks.
• Le Plateau – Centre d’Art Contemporain. The Center for Contemporary Art focuses on fine arts, dance, and music in a minimalist setting.
• Musée d’Ennery. The National Museum of Asian Art has begun as a private collection of the Ennery family. Today, it contains approximately 7,000 items.
• Musée Cernuschi. The second-largest Asian art museum in Paris displays items from China, Japan, and Korea.
• Musée Bourdelle. The art museum in the studio of the sculptor Antoine Bourdelle contains 500+ works.
• Musée Cognacq-Jay. An exceptional collection of fine art and decorative items mostly from 18 th -century France.
• Musée de la Vie Romantique. The Museum of Romantic Life displays numerous mementos of George Sand, the pseudonym of the Romantic era novelist Amantine Lucile Aurore Dupin.
• Maison de Balzac. The residence of the French writer Honoré de Balzac is where he created his greatest novels.
• Mémorial de la Shoah. The Shoah Memorial is the Holocaust Museum of Paris.
• Musée de la Libération de Paris, Musée du Général Leclerc, Musée Jean Moulin. The Museum of the Liberation of Paris commemorates the French Resistance during World War II.
• Musée de la Légion d’honneur et des ordres de chevalerie. The National Museum of the Legion of Honor and Orders of Chivalry hosts orders of merit and chivalry.
• Musée de la Préfecture de Police. The Museum of Police History documents important conspiracies, arrests, and criminal affairs.
• Musée-librairie du Compagnonnage. The museum documents the history of French trade guilds.
• Musée du Parfum Fragonard. The Museum of Perfume unveils the manufacturing secrets and history of perfumes.
• Arènes de Lutèce. One of the most important ancient Roman remains in Paris, the Arena of Lutetia – as the Romans called Paris – could accommodate 15,000 people.

• Many attractions offer free entrance on the first Sunday of the month. However, take this Paris money-saving tip with a grain of salt. Everybody wants to save a buck or two, so everybody is looking forward to entering the museums on these days. And we mean everybody – not just tourists! Here’s a list of the museums and when they offer free admission:
• Musée Rodin : October 1 – March 31.
• Arc de Triomphe : January 1 – March 31 and November 1 – December 31.
• Pantheon : January 1 – March 31 and November 1 – December 31.
• Conciergerie : January 1 – March 31 and November 1 – December 31.
• Sainte-Chapelle : January 1 – March 31 and November 1 – December 31.
• Expiatory Chapel : January 1 – May 31 and November 1 – December 31.
• Domaine National du Palais-Royal : January 1 – May 31 and November 1 – December 31.
• Invest in a Paris Pass. Two options exist. The Paris Museum Pass covers skip-the-line entry to 50+ museums, while the Paris Pass grants you the same admissions plus public transportation and various tours. The prices start from €52.00 ($61.30) or €132.00 ($155.70) for a 48-hour validity for the Paris Museum Pass and Paris Pass, respectively. To put this into perspective: the ticket for the Louvre currently costs €15.00 ($17.70) onsite, €13.00 ($15.30) for the Arc de Triomphe , and €14.00 ($16.50) for Musée d’Orsay.

Note : Entrance to the Eiffel Tower and the Parisian Catacombs is not included in the passes.

Food & Drinks in Paris That You Shouldn’t Miss

The gastronomic scene of Paris will enchant you with a fusion of traditional French and multi-ethnic cuisines. In this section, we’ll focus on the food and drinks in Paris that you absolutely must try.

• French cuisine often features unusual ingredients. If you’re feeling adventurous, try any of these dishes in Paris for an unforgettable culinary experience:
• Escargots. Despite what your brain might tell you, the butter, garlic, and herbs make them extremely delicious.
• Oysters. The salt-water mollusks are a great appetizer and an aphrodisiac. Warning : they’re in season – meaning fresh – from September until April.
• Frog legs. The exquisite dish is reserved for the holidays. However, since you’re on vacation, you should try it while in Paris.
• Foie gras. You can eat the duck or goose liver either whole, as a mousse, parfait, or pâté. It is one of the most controversial traditional French delicacies. It’s up to you to decide whether to try it or not. We won’t judge either way.
• Onion soup. Richly topped with cheese, this soup is so comforting that it might quickly become your favorite one.
• Coq au vin. The “chicken in wine” stew features crispy chicken pieces. Yummy!
• Bœuf Bourguignon. The beef stew consists of tender chunks of meat simmered in a wine gravy.
• Cheese. Are you Camembert , Roquefort , or Comté fan? No cheese lover should leave Paris without trying some of the best varieties worldwide.

• Make yourself a picnic. Instead of searching for an authentic restaurant, buy several cheeses, a French baguette, and a bottle of wine. The abundant parks of Paris invite for a leisurely picnic meal.
• Paris has numerous canteen-style eateries serving home-cooked international dishes. African, Middle-eastern, and Asian restaurants are a great bang for your buck. Moreover, they prepare the food much faster. This will save you some precious time for sightseeing.
• If you’re a sugar worshipper, Paris is your paradise. And after hours of sightseeing, you deserve a calorie kick! Treat yourself to some divine macaroons , crêpes , eclairs, and some crème brûlée . Even if you’ve tried them at home, the ones in Paris are the real deal.
• You don’t have to order a full bottle to taste great wine. Restaurants often serve house wine by the glass. It’s much cheaper and quite satisfying, in our opinion.

Traveling in Paris: Types of Transportation and Getting Around the City

As one of the largest cities in Europe, Paris has an extensive public transportation system. This section of our Paris travel guide reveals the best options to get around the French capital .

• Walk to most attractions for a real Parisian feeling. It might not be the fastest, but it’s certainly the most pleasurable way of exploring the wide boulevards and the tiny cobblestoned streets. If you like discovering art in unusual places and admiring clever architectural designs, walking is your best option for getting around Paris.
• Use one of the 15,000+ bikes to explore the city. Paris introduced bike-sharing in 2007 and currently has over 1,200 stations. Both mechanical and e-bikes are available. For travelers, one-day and one-week passes are the most suitable.

Peculiar Fact : Paris has more bicycle lanes than Amsterdam. Although the Dutch capital is nicknamed “The City of Bikes” , it has only 329 mi (515 km) of bike lanes. In comparison, Paris has 430 mi (700 km) of cycle paths and routes. Of course, that’s mostly because the population and area of Paris are greater than those of Amsterdam .

• The Parisian Métropolitan is the fastest way to travel around the city. If you’re in a hurry to get from one sight to the next, use the 16 interconnected lines of the subway. The Paris Visite Travel Pass is specifically designed for tourists. It costs €38.35 ($45.35) and is valid for unlimited rides not only in Paris but in the whole Île-de-France region for 5 days. For shorter visits, use single tickets or 10-ticket carnets. These cost €1.90 ($2.25) and €16.90 ($20.00), respectively.
• The express RER trains serve the suburbs. In case your accommodation is outside the center, the express trains will bring you to the heart of Paris via five lines.
• River cruises on the Seine are a great option to explore the city, rest your weary feet, and even have a nice meal. Here are our Paris travel tips about them:
• Sightseeing cruises last around 1 hour and cost around €15.00 ($17.70).
• Lunch and dinner cruises are 1:45 to 2:30 hours in duration. Their price is from €40.00 ($47.20) to €205.00 ($241.80) depending on the menu.
• Boats depart from Port de la Bordonnais (near the Eiffel Tower), Pont d’Alma, and Square du Vert Galant (on Ile de la Cité island).
• The hop-on, hop-off Batobus boat provides unlimited traveling on the Seine for one or two days, as well as for a whole year. The ticket ranges from €17.00 ($20.05) to €60.00 ($70.80). The whole loop lasts 2 hours, with 15 minutes of traveling time between the stops. The nine locations where the boat halts are: Jardin des Plantes – Hôtel de Ville – Louvre – Place de la Concorde – Eiffel Tower – Invalides – Musée d’Orsay – Saint-Germain-des-Prés – Notre Dame.

Where to Stay in Paris: Best Neighborhoods and Accommodations

Choosing your accommodation in the French capital can be overwhelming at first. Say no more – we’re here to help you!

In this section, we give you the best Paris travel tips about which neighborhoods to stay in and what accommodations to choose.

• The Parisian neighborhoods are called arrondissements . They’re numbered from 1 to 20 and named after the main attractions that are located within them. The smaller the number, the closer to the center of Paris the district is located. Below you’ll find the most popular parts of the city:
• 1 st arrondissement, aka Louvre (Paris Center, Right Bank of the Seine);
• 2 nd arrondissement, aka Bourse (Paris Center, Right Bank of the Seine);
• 3 rd arrondissement, aka Temple (Paris Center, Right Bank of the Seine);
• 4 th arrondissement, aka Hôtel-de-Ville (Paris Center, Right Bank of the Seine);
• 5 th arrondissement, aka Panthéon (Left Bank of the Seine);
• 6 th arrondissement, aka Luxembourg (Left Bank of the Seine);
• 7 th arrondissement, aka Palais-Bourbon (Left Bank of the Seine);
• 8 th arrondissement, aka Élysée (Right Bank of the Seine);
• 9 th arrondissement, aka Opéra (Right Bank of the Seine);
• 18 th arrondissement, aka Butte-Montmartre (Right Bank of the Seine).

Note : The Left Bank of the Seine is the south side and the Right Bank of the Seine is the north side of the river.

• Pick a central location if you’re visiting Paris only for a couple of days. This way, you can walk almost anywhere or ride the metropolitan for a few stops between attractions. The advantage is you’ll spend more time exploring the city than traveling between sights. The disadvantage? Smaller and more expensive accommodations than further away from the center.
• If you fancy a view of the Eiffel Tower through your window, stay in one of the following areas:
• 7 th arrondissement, aka Palais-Bourbon (Left Bank of the Seine) – also home of the Eiffel Tower;
• 15 th arrondissement, aka Vaugirard (Left Bank of the Seine);
• 16 th arrondissement, aka Passy (Right Bank of the Seine);
• 17 th arrondissement, aka Batignolles-Monceau (Right Bank of the Seine).

Note : Not all hotels guarantee a room with a view of the Eiffel Tower. Make sure you read the hotel description carefully, as well as browse through reviews of travelers who’ve stayed there.

• Stay outside the city center if you are spending more time in Paris. This way, you can:
• save some money on accommodation;
• stay at a larger place compared to the center;
• ride the metro to explore the main Parisian sights;
• discover unusual things to do in Paris;
• live like a local.  

Which One is Your Favorite Paris Travel Tip?

There you have it – all the Paris travel tips that you need for an unforgettable trip.

The City of Lights is a fascinating but overwhelming place to visit. In order to best prepare yourself for your trip, make sure you use our battle-tested travel tricks and hacks.

Now, share with us:

When are you going there?

If you’ve already been to Paris, what impressed you the most?

You Might Also Like

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This post has 2 comments.

Never enough time in Paris. As you pointed out so many wonderful places. We have a friend that offers a chocolate tasting tour. I must go back soon and sample more wines and chocolates. You have to love a country that makes more than 400 kinds of cheese!

Chocolate tasting sounds like the right tour for us, too! We’ll make sure to book it once we can travel to Paris again 🙂

Feel free to share your friend’s contact details, we’re sure a lot of people will be interested to go.

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

Last Updated: February 19, 2023

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

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

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

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

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

Save this list of Paris travel tips for later!

You’ll be very glad you did.

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

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

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

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

Paris Travel Planning Tips

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

Learn the tricks to getting cheap flights TO Paris

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

Plan your Paris trip for off-peak periods

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

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

So when is the best time to visit Paris?

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

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

Know the double edged sword of Paris in August

Visiting Paris in August is a controversial topic.

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

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

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

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

Consider spending Christmas in Paris

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

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

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

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

Going to Paris for shopping? Go for Les Soldes

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

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

Plan your trip for minimum four days

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

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

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

Book your hotel well in advance

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Learn more about the criteria for star ratings here.

Book a central hotel

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

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

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

The extra splurge is worth it! Trust me!

Avoid airport hotels

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

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

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

Consider AirBNB, but be careful when booking

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Know your arrondissements

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Don’t forget travel insurance

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

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

Click here to check rates with WorldNomads.

Download helpful apps before you go

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

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

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

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

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

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

Paris Metro Tips and General Tricks for Transport/Getting Around

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

Use public transport to save a lot of money

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

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

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

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

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

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

Book an airport transfer for minimal stress

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

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

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

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

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

Do NOT rent a car

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

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

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

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

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

Buy Metro Tickets in packs of 10

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

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

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

Hold onto your tickets throughout your ride

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

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

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

Metro car really congested? Move in

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

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

Let everyone exit the Metro car before you get in

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

Avoid the Metro in Rush Hour

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

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

Walk as much as you can

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

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

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

Know that jaywalking is weirdly okay here

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

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

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

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

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

So, you know, consider it a cultural experience.

Easily rent a bike

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

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

Click here for a guide on how to use it.

Easily rent a scooter

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

Here is a guide on how to use them.

Paris Tips for Attractions

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

Make a sightseeing plan

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

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

Don’t overstuff your itinerary

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

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

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

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

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

Buy your tickets in advance

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

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

Consider a Museum Pass

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

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

Wake up EARLY

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

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

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

Plan around attraction Free Days

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

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

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

• The Orangerie
• Centre Pompidou

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

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

Visit attractions shortly before closing time

This is one of my more unconventional travel tips but it has worked consistently for me in big cities, from Rome and Florence to Paris.

When it comes to museums, one of the least busy times to go is about 1 hour before closing because nobody thinks this gives them enough time.

Honestly though, because I don’t usually dwell at the long in museums anyway, an hour is more than perfect for me, especially when there’s zero crowds to brawl with.

EXAMPLE: I recently went to the Louvre on Bastille Day (AKA when there’s free admission). Despite the freebie, I was able to walk right on in without lining up at all about 1 hour before closing. Insane!

Avoid sightseeing bus tours if you can

Traffic in Paris is the worst, and while most things tend to seem a bit more magical in Paris thanks to their setting, sadly traffic is still as dull as anywhere else in the world.

I remember one time, I had to do a sightseeing bus tour for my summer internship and we were stuck in traffic forever, with terrible views of everything to boot because we were stuck behind tinted glass windows.

If you’re able to explore Paris on foot, then I recommend doing that. If not, try to book a tour during off-peak traffic periods with an open top roof… or consider doing a river cruise instead!

Don’t miss a Seine River cruise

The #1 shamelessly touristy thing I recommend to every visitor is to take a Seine River cruise. There is no better way to enjoy Paris – trust me.

I worked for a river cruise company one summer, with multi-day itineraries all around Europe and the highlight of my trips would always be the Seinr River cruise part through Paris.

I must have done it 10 times or more, and I was still twitching in excitement every time.

There are a lot of options for Seine River cruises, but here are some you can easily pre-book online:

• (Cheapest!) This standard 1hr cruise
• This 2 hr lunch cruise
• (Splurge!) This evening cruise with dinner

Don’t feel guilty for skipping “must-dos”

Ahh, I wish I could tattoo this Paris tip onto every visitor’s forehead, but it’s important you remember that this is YOUR vacation, and you shouldn’t feel guilty for any part of it (croissant binges included).

Seriously… Every second thing in Paris has been called “a must see” by one person or another, so don’t build your itinerary around what other people say is awesome, especially if it’s not something you typically like.

For instance, here’s my confession: I find the Louvre kinda boring.

Why? You wait forever to get inside, at which point you’re herded in with throngs of other tourists, then you linger around forever because you feel like you “should”.

Ehh. It’s alright, and I’ve grown to like it more on subsequent visits, but if art isn’t your thing, there’s no shame in skipping it.

Don’t get hyped up for the Mona Lisa

On a related note… okay, I can’t call this iconic lady a tourist trap, but let’s say she is a lot more petite than you would expect.

The Louvre is a lovely museum if you like art, but don’t organize your whole trip around seeing the Mona Lisa because she’s this tiny little painting in a giant room filled with other disappointed people all trying to get selfies because #Paris.

Prepare yourself for strikes

People often joke that striking is like the national sport of France, and while that may be a bit of an exaggeration, I’ve been impacted by strikes on the majority of my trips to Paris, so… it’s definitely worth keeping in mind!

On my first trip for instance, a train strike meant that we had to take a 12 hour bus from Nice to Paris instead of the much shorter train.

It also took me 4 tries to visit the Arc de Triomphe due to random strikes and closures.

So, keep in mind that this may be something that will impact your trip. There’s not much you can do to prepare for this apart from Googling attractions the day before you visit just to double check that they aren’t closed, but remember: going with the flow is an important skill to master if you want to properly enjoy Paris!

Prepare yourself for random closures

Similar to the Paris tip above – you should brace yourself for closures and always have a plan B.

Going with the flow is important, because besides strikes, there are often times that shops, restaurants or attractions are closed even if Google Maps says they’re open.

This is especially true if you visit peak vacation periods like August, when may locals will leave the city.

Seek out fun and unique tours

Paris is one of the most visited cities in the world, and of course you can have an amazing time sightseeing and taking yourself around the city… but you should also know that there’s loads of unique tours you can choose from that will make your experience all the more special.

Here are some options:

• This vintage car tour that includes a wine tasting
• This gourmet food tour
• This fashion tour with a style guide

Bring your Student ID everywhere if you have one

Many Paris attractions will have a student discount (and freebies especially if you’re a student in the EU).

Just make sure you have VALID proof that you’re a student (i.e. your regular student ID might not work if it doesn’t have any validity dates on it).

My Student ID for example only showed the date it was issued, not the date it was valid until, so I had a hard time with it in some attractions.

PRO TIP: These days, many places only accept valid  ISIC cards as proof of being a student, so if you intend to make use of your student ID a lot on your trip, you should consider getting one. The savings are more than worth it!

Bring proof of age/residency everywhere you go

Besides heavy discounts for children (at pretty much every attraction), Paris also offers many discounts for “youths” (teens/early twenties), particularly those who reside in the EU.

The Eiffel Tower for instance has a “Youth Rate” for those that are between 12-24 and there’s a weekend ticket available for young people under 25 for the Metro, where you get unlimited trips in a day for about 4 euros. Amazing deal!

Most of the major museums actually have free/discounted admission for EU residents under 26. This was how I got into the Orsay and many other museums free during my visit as an exchange student living in Germany (I was allowed in free because of my student visa).

There are frequently also senior discounts for those who are 60+. My rule of thumb: it doesn’t hurt to ask 🙂

Get familiar with the many free things to do in Paris

Paris is a city where the cost of attractions can add up quickly.

Luckily, there are a lot of free things to do that are just as fun as paid attractions, like visiting the city’s parks, heading to free museums, etc.

Check out my full list of free things to do in Paris for more.

Enjoy sunset from the Seine

Of all the cheap activities you can enjoy in Paris, sitting down to enjoy sunset by the Seine is one of my favourites.

This to me is a quintessentially Parisian experience (best enjoyed with a glass of wine!) that you cannot miss. Make sure to schedule this in at least once!

Don’t make it a priority to go UP the Eiffel Tower

If I can be honest with you, I genuinely think the view from the Eiffel Tower is one of the worse paid viewpoints in the entire city.

Woah, I know – bold statement, but hear me out. Isn’t one of the most iconic parts of the Parisian skyline the Eiffel Tower itself? And wouldn’t you say that a view without said tower would feel mighty incomplete?

… exactly.

That’s why I’ve been up the Eiffel Tower only once and don’t really plan on doing it ever again. A Parisian view without the Iron Lady is like a pain au chocolate sans chocolat . You feel me?

Consider walking the Eiffel Tower

If you are set on heading up the Eiffel Tower though, there’s a more unique way up that many visitors don’t know about.

For those looking to get a leg workout, you can also opt to climb up the Eiffel Tower on foot.

Not only is this a unique way to experience this Parisian landmark , you’ll also encounter shorter wait times and line-ups than taking the elevator up.

Do NOT jaywalk across the roundabout at the Arc de Triomphe

I know I said earlier that jaywalking is mainly fine in Paris, but there’s one big exception – the roundabout at the Arc de Triomphe.

This is a sight that makes me cringe every time – a LOT of tourists in Paris seem to miss the fact that the passageway to the Arc de Triomphe is underground, so they choose chaos and instead try to run across this super busy roundabout into the middle section.

Don’t do that – it’s genuinely dangerous! Look instead for the stairs that will take you underground.

Don’t miss the free view at Galeries Lafayette

Looking for a splendid view that won’t cost a thing? Head to the world famous Galeries Lafayette, where an epic rooftop view awaits.

It took me so many visits to finally explore this free view and now it’s one of my faves, especially because the Opera Garnier is… the best.

You can see the Eiffel Tower from here too!

PS: For more amazing free viewpoints in the area, I’ve heard the one at Printemps is excellent too, but it was closed when I tried to go.

Go to Sacré-Cœur (at sunrise)

If you don’t mind a little climb that will melt your legs right off, there’s a phenomenal view over the city from Sacré-Cœur Basilica, a view that’s even more glorious if you climb its tower.

For an extra special experience, come here for sunrise.

Raining? Head to Paris’ Covered Passages

The Covered Passages of Paris are one of my favourite hidden gems in the city – you’ll find about 20 of them scattered mainly around the 2nd, 9th and 10th arrondissements.

While each passage is different, they all share a magical quality that brings you back in time, with splendid architectural details and a lovely mix of shops, bistros and cafes.

Here are some of my favourite covered passages in Paris:

• Galerie Vivienne
• Passage Jouffroy
• Passage des Panoramas

See inside the Palais Garnier

The Palais Garnier (Paris Opera House) is an attraction many tourists visit for the exterior, but please, if you can, go buy yourself a ticket to go inside.

No joke – This is one of the most beautiful buildings I’ve seen in my entire life.

Sure, my teenage obsession with the Phantom of the Opera likely plays a factor, but if you have time in your itinerary, GO INSIDE. It’s stunning!

Visit the Parc des Buttes-Chaumont

Paris is full of gorgeous parks, and taking advantage of them is a must when you visit.

The Jardins des Tuileries and Jardins du Luxembourg are both prominent tourist must-sees recommended in every travel guide, but if you don’t mind going a bit further afield, the Parc des Buttes-Chaumont is a wonderful park.

Sure it’s farther from other tourist sights in Paris, but it’s also less busy, and filled with awesome sights like a large artificial lake, a cool grotto with waterfalls, and several neat bridges.

Seek alternate viewpoints to main attractions

This is a Paris tip that you can use pretty much all over the city.

When you’re exploring the main attractions in Paris, try to venture a little away from the crowds to find cool alternate viewpoints.

You’d be surprised at how easy it is to find a spot with fewer people to get THE perfect photo and some creative angles as well.

For example, the Sacré-Cœur is most photographed from the front entrance, along the steps, but my personal favourite view is from the Square Marcel Bleustein Blanchet, just behind and usually with a fraction of the crowds.

Similarly, Trocadero or the Champs de Mars is the #1 place people go to photograph the Eiffel Tower, but the Passerelle Debilly offers a much cooler angle (and unique opportunity to score a photo without a million other people in it).

Head to a flea market

I adore rummaging for useless junk and something about rummaging for useless junk in Paris makes the event feel 100x more romantic.

Les Puces (as popularized by Midnight in Paris) is one of the better known flea markets in the city, and while some say its popularity has turned it into a touristy place, it’s still well worth a visit if you love nostalgically sifting through crap as much as I do.

Consider doing Disneyland Paris as a one-night trip rather than a day trip

Doing Paris to Disneyland Paris as a day trip is a very common part of visitors’ itineraries, but if I were you, I would recommend doing (at least) one night there instead.

I’ve been to Disneyland Paris 3 times now – and while it’s quite doable as a day trip, nothing beats sleeping close to the park, arriving early, and staying late.

This allows you to maximize your time at the parks (to discover Disneyland Paris’ secrets and its uniquely beautiful castle ) and not stress too much about transportation.

Safety Tips for Paris

I’ve heard some of the worst horror stories there are to hear about Paris… from people getting their passports stolen while picnicking by the Eiffel Tower to people getting pickpocketed straight out of the airport.

If you don’t want that to be you, here are some tips for avoiding safety issues in Paris.

Keep valuables out of sight

Tourist-related crimes in Paris are primarily opportunistic ones.

Off the top of my head, these are stories I have heard from visitors and Paris locals:

• Someone getting their phone yanked out of their hands on the Metro as the doors were closing
• Someone getting their phone stolen off their table at a cafe terrace
• Someone getting their bag and passports stolen because they left their bag unattended near the Eiffel Tower while taking photos

The one common denominator here is that their valuables were in sight and easy to gab, so try your best to keep an eye on your valuables and not have them out and about.

Know the emergency numbers

In North America, 911 is the go-to when you have any kind of emergency.

If you face an emergency in Paris, there’s a few options for numbers you can call:

• 112 – General line where you may be redirected
• 15 – Ambulance/medical emergencies
• 17 – Police
• 18 – Fire department

Don’t Sign Petitions

9/10 times, if someone comes up to you asking you to sign a petition in any touristy area in Paris, it is something known as the Parisian Petitions scam.

Here’s how it works: Young girls will approach you in busy places (Champs-Élysées, Jardins des Tuileries, Notre Dame, etc) with a clipboard and will either pretend to be deaf-mute, using gestures to ask you to sign OR they will ask “do you speak English?” to draw you in.

Usually they do this to distract you while another pickpockets you, or commonly they ask you for a donation while you sign the petition, and get really aggressive when you don’t.

To deal with this scam, just ignore, avoid eye contact and move on.

Don’t accept bracelets from strangers

This happens a LOT near Sacre-Coeur and the Louvre, but usually, if someone is trying to give you a bracelet, that’s another common Parisian scam.

Here’s how it works: There will be guys with string bracelets walking around in busy touristy areas, trying to sell them to you.

The more aggressive ones will even tie the bracelet on your wrist without you consenting, then demand you pay for it. Avoid these guys like the plague!

Beware of pickpockets

Another important Paris tip is to always have an eye on your belongings and don’t bring anything out that you can’t afford to lose.

I know this all sounds paranoid, but there are even pickpockets operating in paid attractions like the Louvre, so please be careful!

I’ve written a full guide on how to avoid pickpockets in Europe, so be sure to read that to get familiar with common scams and tactics.

Beware of overly helpful people at the Metro

Buying tickets at the Metro stations can be confusing, but don’t fall into the trap of an overly helpful stranger who has volunteered to help you.

Sometimes they will offer to help you get tickets in exchange for your cash, then get you the wrong ones (e.g. a child’s ticket) while pocketing the profit. This is a very common scam that has happened to friends of mine, so beware!

Don’t accept free roses

Another popular Paris scam is the rose scam, where you’ll be given a rose as a “gift” then asked for money.

So, if some guy hands you a rose, don’t take it… even if he insists it’s a welcome gift. He WILL ask you for money, or ask your significant other for money at some point.

Avoid sketchy EuroNet ATMs

If you’re going to an ATM, try your best to find one that’s connected to an actual bank.

There are a lot of ATMs (especially around tourist areas) that charge huge fees, or make currency conversion more confusing than it needs to be so you can get charged more.

As a general rule, don’t use any of those Euronet ATMs – they’re the worst!

Have a plan in case of a worst case scenario

This isn’t just a good Paris travel tip, but a good tip for travelling anywhere – make a plan for the worst case scenario.

Imagine your bags get stolen in Paris with your passports and all your cash/cards – what would be your backup plan? What would you do if you lost your phone?

Having a plan in place can minimize stress in the event that anything does happen, and having that peace of mind is very important for any vacation!

Food and Drink Tips for Paris

Eating and drinking well is a quintessential part of any Paris trip. Here are some Paris travel tips related to food and drink!

Avoid restaurants with giant pictures or openly advertising a “tourist menu”

These are likely to be overpriced and gross, despite sounding like a good deal.

I got sucked into one during my first backpacking trip in Europe and it was…. not great.

It also goes without saying that the hard Rock Cafe isn’t where you should go if you’re looking for authentic Parisian cuisine:

Know the difference between “Menu” and “Carte”

In North America, we use the word “menu” to refer to the piece of paper that lists all the dishes and prices at a restaurant.

But “Menu” in France has a different meaning – it instead refers to a combo/set meal, so if you order a “Big Mac Menu” for example, what you’re ordering is a combo that comes with the sandwich, fries and drink. So, remember that difference and don’t just go asking for “menus” or else you might create some confusion.

In France, the list of prices/dishes is actually known as the “Carte”.

Double check that places have prices on display before ordering

A common tourist scam in Paris is to not have prices on display so they can charge thirsty, hangry, unsuspecting tourists whatever they want, so remember to double check lest you get sucked into paying 5 euros for a Coke.

Expect to eat dinner later

If you’re accustomed to eating dinner before 8pm, then know that you’ll probably have to adjust slightly to adapt to typical Parisian dinner times, which usually begin around 7:30pm or often later. 

You won’t have trouble finding something to eat earlier than that, but many restaurants will close between lunch and dinner to prep, so keep that in mind if you were looking forward to a particular restaurant… and maybe pack some granola bars in your purse to fight off the hanger.

Make reservations

If you have your eye on a particular restaurant in Paris, odds are many others do too! Avoid disappointment by reserving a table in advance. 

This will help you avoid the dreaded ‘walk of shame’ going from restaurant to restaurant asking if they have space. 

In peak periods (especially weekends!), odds are the best spots won’t… or they won’t even take reservations at all, in which case showing up early is your best bet.

If you dread making phone calls like me, you can book reservations online via OpenTable and The Fork although they only cover a portion of restaurants in the city.

Know that restaurant hours may vary

If there’s one thing I’ve learned about Parisian restaurants, it’s that Google Maps can’t be trusted! A lot of the time, operating hours will shift around or be different than what is online, much to the frustration of many a rumbling belly.

There’s not a ton you can do about this, except booking a table in advance or preparing a few backups in case you need to go with the flow.

Wait to be seated

Seating yourself is not usually a thing in Paris, and there will often be signs telling you so, although many tourists don’t see it or choose to self-seat anyway.

To avoid the wrath of your server, definitely don’t just take any table you see (they might be reserved!) and wait to be seated.

Know that the service charge is included

In France, a 15% service charge is included in your bill, so the tipping culture here is definitely less prominent than in North America.

Opinion is divided on whether or not you should still tip on top of this service charge – younger Parisians often won’t bother with a tip at all. For me personally, it comes down to what “feels right” (so Canadian, I know!)

If you feel your server deserves a bit extra, then 5-10% would be acceptable… but you don’t need to feel obligated like you might in North America.

Splurge more at lunch

This is a great travel tip for not just Paris, but all over Europe. If you want to splurge on some nice local cuisine while in Paris, a much cheaper way to do this is by having a nice lunch.

Many restaurants will have lunch specials or “menus” which include multiple courses for a much cheaper price than at dinner time.

Ask for tap water by asking for”une carafe d’eau”

Often when you order water at a restaurant, they might assume you mean bottled. If you are 100% sure you want tap water, then ask for “une carafe d’eau”.

This will help avoid the heart attack from a 7 euro bottle of water on your bill (true story).

Try the “Plat du Jour”

Many restaurants in Paris will offer a “Plat du Jour” or “Dish of the Day” which is typically a special dish that’s offered in addition to the regular menu offerings.

Often, this dish will be cheaper, or at least something special, so consider trying one if it sounds good!

Avoid eating in the Latin Quarter

I know generalizing is unfair, but this is a Paris tip that many Paris travel guides (including me) will repeat: stay away from the tourist trap restaurants of the Latin Quarter!

From personal experience, I can tell you the food is not good. Some things to look out for include big signs that say “TOURIST MENU” or “FREE WIFI”. Any restaurants that have a pushy server in the front beckoning you to come in will also likely not be great.

Of course, not all restaurants in this area are doomed. Here are some recommendations from a local.

Find happy hours for cheap drinks

Paris can be an expensive city for booze, but if you plan smartly, you can definitely save a ton of money.

One great way to enjoy drinks cheaply in Paris is by seeking out Happy Hours. Many bars offer them, but here is a list of some top ones.

Get breakfast from a boulangerie when they open

Can you imagine anything better than a hot buttery croissant, still warm from the oven?

… Maybe a pain au chocolat, still warm from the oven, but I’ll leave that fierce debate up to you.

Either way, if you want a cheap, delicious, and authentically Parisian breakfast, skip the hotel breakfast buffet and head straight to a boulangerie for a fresh assortment of baked goods.

Try as much as possible from a boulangerie

On that note, don’t limit yourself to just baguettes, croissants, and pain au chocolats.

While these are all indeed delightful heaven-sent creations, there are many more amazing treats in Paris to be enjoyed and taste-tested.

I’m partial to tasty Tarte aux Fraises or Tarte aux Framboises – amazing berry tarts with buttery crusts that are filled with a wonderful cream and juicy berries on top. Completely irresistible.

I’d recommend you just pick what looks good though and make a big picnic out of it!

Good macarons are worth the cost

My first time in Paris, I was alarmed at how expensive macarons were. 2-3 euros for a tiny cookie? My backpacker budget couldn’t justify it.

But trust me – there’s a world of difference between the cheap macarons from supermarkets (which are often cakey, and just sugary more than anything else) and the pricey macarons you get from big names like La Durée and Pierre Hermé.

Some will say these shops are overpriced, but I feel like they’re a worth it “treat yo’self” splurge. Try one yourself to see the difference!

Yes, cheese is eaten post-meal here. Embrace it

If you’re used to eating cheese as an appetizer, then you should know that in France, it’s more common to eat cheese after the main course (sometimes in place of dessert) or maybe as a nibble to go along with your Apéro (a pre-dinner drink usually accompanied by finger foods).

… Just go with it.

Eat your weight in crêpes

Crepes are a French cliché I can firmly get behind. You’ll find crêpe stands all around the city, and honestly, I’ve never had a bad one.

For a more indulgent “experience” with crêpes, Breizh Café  is a very popular pick. I’ve been there once before and it was definitely nice, although much fancier (and therefore pricier) than typical crepe stalls.

On a Budget? Picnicking is the way to go

My first Europe backpacking trip is when I experienced the art of the Parisian picnic for the first time and my life was forever changed.

Eating in Paris doesn’t have to be expensive.

Sometimes, the best meal is simply a fresh baguette and an assortment of meats/cheeses/fruits from a local market.

Shared with friends, this is an affordable experience that’s not only delicious, but absolutely wonderful if you pick a scenic place to eat too!

Get food from grocery stores or markets to save a lot of money

Similar to the tip above, don’t feel pressured to dine at a restaurant for every meal while in Paris.

These costs can add up quickly, and since Parisian service can be… a bit slow, often this will cut into your sightseeing time as well.

Instead, don’t forget that grocery stores and markets are a great resource for cheap grab & go meals, or even groceries for whipping up your own meals if you’ve booked accommodation with kitchen facilities.

Shop at local markets

As in countless other places around the world, many locals in Paris prefer to get fresh produce from markets rather than grocery stores, where the quality is often not as high and the goods not as fresh.

As a tourist, it’s also a nice experience to try shopping at local markets since the interactions you get are a lot less sterile than in a chain supermarket for instance. Maybe a chance to test out your French while buying some fromage?

Drinking in public is A-okay

I grew up in Vancouver, Canada, where you couldn’t even have a drink on the beach. So, visiting Paris as a 20 year old (only just able to drink legally back home!) was quite the shock.

Here, it’s totally common to enjoy a glass of wine or a beer while chilling in the park or by the Seine, so go wild!

Try to buy your alcohol from grocery stores before 10pm

I’ve been caught out by this more times than I can count… and it’s a surprise each time!

While there doesn’t seem to be any official restrictions on the sale of alcohol in France, some supermarket chains/gas stations have their own rules in place where they won’t sell you alcohol after a certain time (often 9 or 10pm, depending on the chain and location).

Yes, this sometimes means the store is still open, and you can even grab a bottle of wine from the cooler while staff watch, but they will refuse to ring it up due to store policy (can you tell I’m still bitter?)

Anyways, just keep in mind that this is a thing, and try to stock up earlier if you can.

… but if you’re desperate, Uber Eats can deliver alcohol

As can some “convenience stores”, although you can expect inflated prices from both these options.

Don’t be pressured to only buy French food

If it’s your first time visiting Paris, you may feel pressured to eat only French cuisine all the time because that’s what’s “authentic”.

But the truth is, Paris is a global city! Today, over 150 nationalities are represented in Paris which means there’s all sorts of wonderful restaurants from global cuisines as well.

Dine away from main tourist attractions

Recommending the top restaurants in Paris to you is outside the scope of my expertise, but one Paris travel tip I need to shout over and over is this: dine away from the city’s top tourist attractions!

Often the restaurants set up close to main attractions (e.g. Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, etc.) are geared towards high turnover tourist crowds, meaning inflated prices, and mediocre food because they don’t expect repeat-customers.

One easy way to find better restaurants instantly is walking a few blocks away from main attractions. Remember, avoid “tourist menus” like the plague!

Consider a food tour

If you’re a true foodie who wants to try a lot of Parisian goodies while learning more about them in context, then a food tour might be a great idea.

I’ve done many food tours in my travels, and always find them very enjoyable – not just for the food, but to learn more about local life and why certain foods are popular/how they’re made.

I still haven’t done a food tour in Paris, but you are absolutely spoiled for choice when it comes to options.

Here are some fun-sounding food tours I’d love to try:

• This food tour in Saint Germain
• This gourmet gastronomy tour
• This Paris “best food ever” tour

Take a cooking class

The only thing better than sampling local cuisine is learning how to make it yourself! If you love food, one of the best bucket list experiences you can pursue in Paris is taking a French cooking class.

• This full day French cuisine class with a 4 course lunch
• This choux and éclair class
• This croissant making class
• This macaron making class

Get rose gelato from Amorino

Amorino is not exclusive to Paris, but they have great gelato and the presentation/concept is too cool to not mention.

Long story short: Amorino shapes your gelato like roses, and you can get as many flavours as you want because you simply pay by the size of cone rather than per flavour. I usually get at least one Amorino any time I’m in Paris, because their gelato is delicious and just so pretty to look at.

NOTE: I’m fully aware that there are more “Parisian” ice cream recommendations (like Berthillon), but I’m a shameless basic B who loves Amorino. Try it yourself and you’ll see what I mean.

Paris Etiquette Tips

Wondering how not to be rude in Paris? Here are some important must-knows related to French etiquette to keep in mind before you visit.

Say “bonjour” or “bonsoir” when entering a shop

If you’re going to learn two French words, these would be it. Failure to greet people when entering a shop is considered the peak of rudeness in Paris , so don’t forget.

Bonjour is hello, and bonsoir is good evening.

A good rule of thumb is to say bonjour before 6pm and bonsoir after 6pm.

Also say “au revoir” or “merci” when leaving a shop

Failing to say “goodbye” on your way out is also very much frowned upon, so remember to say bye or thank you as well.

Attempt French

Of course, you don’t need to master the French language before you visit Paris, but a little effort goes a long way.

I’ve usually gotten decent service in Paris (contrary to the rude Parisian stereotype), and I chalk that up to the fact that I speak French.

Here are some key phrases you should 100% commit to memory, along with rough pronunciation guides:

• Hello = Bonjour (bon-zhoor)
• Good evening = Bonsoir (bon-swahr) -> [ say this after 6pm-ish, people kind of get snobby if you say “bonjour” in the evening]
• Thank you = Merci (mer-see)
• Please = S’il vous plaît (see voo play)
• Can I get the bill please? = L’addition, s’il vous plaît (lah-diss-yon, see voo play)
• Do you speak English? = Parlez-vous anglais? (par-lay voo ong-lay)
• Excuse me (like, sorry/when you’re trying to move past someone) = Pardon (pahr-dawn)
• Excuse me (like, when you’re trying to get someone’s attention) = Excusez-moi (ex-kews-ay-mwah)
• Bye = Au revoir (oh rev-war)

If you’re looking for a more thorough guide with audio included, check out this awesome article from my friend Diane, an expat living in France!

Always ask “Parlez-vous anglais?” before asking in English

Contrary to stereotypes, many Parisians speak English, but get annoyed by the idea that tourists assume they do.

So, remember to never just run up to someone speaking English – be sure to ask “Parlez-vous anglais (Par-lay voo on-glay)”, which means “Do you speak English?” before proceeding.

Get ready to greet with “La Bise”

This Paris etiquette tip will only be relevant if you plan on meeting a local friend (or friend of a friend) while in Paris, but the standard informal greeting among “friends” is La Bise, which is basically an air kiss on each cheek while making a slight kissing sound.

Trust me, it’s very weird if you’re not used to it, and to this day, I still worry I might accidentally plant a smooch on someone.

Again, this isn’t something you would lay on your hotel concierge or friendly server, but it’s good to know if you have friends in the city, or are meeting up with locals.

Moving past people? Say “Pardon”

I know a lot of tourists default to “excusez-moi”, which would be understood but is more meant as “excuse me” in the context of getting someone’s attention.

Instead, if you want to pardon yourself for moving past someone in a crowd, say “Pardon” instead… with an emphasis on the second syllable “par-DON”.

Cover up when visiting churches

As a standard practice, you should aim to cover up your shoulders and knees when visiting any churches in Paris.

Unlike other big tourist cities like Rome or Florence, you won’t often find explicit signs that bar you from entry unless you follow this rule, but it’s definitely a good bare minimum to follow when it comes to respect.

Keep your voice down

One of the #1 complaints that I hear from Parisians about North American tourists is how LOUD they can be.

Having lived abroad for several years, I can now totally hear it too.

I’d say generally speaking, North Americans speak louder than their European counterparts, particularly in typically “quiet” places like public transport.

So, if you’re chatting with people, just try to keep your voice down to not disturb others around you.

Packing Tips for Paris

What should you wear in Paris? And what shouldn’t you wear? What important things should you definitely pack for your Paris trip? Here are my best Paris travel tips related to packing.

Bring comfy shoes

Paris is a city made for walking and exploring.

It’s also a city made of cobblestones!

I know you might want to dress cute for your Paris trip, but do yourself a favour and pack only practical shoes that you can walk a whole day in. Your feet will thank you later.

Bring a theft-proof bag

Unfortunately, pickpocketing and petty theft is common in Paris, particularly with tourists as easy targets.

For peace of mind, you should definitely look into buying theft proof bags like this one , which is slash-proof and also has an abundance of hidden pockets to keep your belongings safe.

Bring bags with hidden pockets or a money belt

If you don’t want to buy an entirely new bag for your trip, that’s understandable, but you should still take a few measures to “theft-proof” your own bags.

A few ideas would be to pick only bags that have an additional layer of security (e.g. a zippered compartment inside the bag, or in the back where it’s inaccessible to grabby hands), or to simply wear a money belt or hidden passport scarf like this one.

Make sure you have a universal adapter

Power sockets in Paris have two round holes and if you’re visiting from overseas, odds are you’ll need an adapter for your plugs to fit.

I’d strongly recommend buying a universal adapter like this one if you don’t have one already.

It’s cheap, can be re-used for every trip, and covers you in all situations. Definitely some of the best money I’ve ever spent!

Pack a water bottle

Paris is filled with free water fountains spouting out clean and cold water for you to drink.

Especially if you’re travelling in the summer, you’ll be doing tons of walking and need to stay hydrated… so pack a water bottle to take advantage of all the free H20.

If you worry about the amount of space a water bottle will take, consider getting a collapsible one like this .

DIY your own travel sized toiletries

This is a very basic packing tip I always recommend, but it’s very easy these days to buy small reusable bottles that you can fill with your own toiletries of choice.

This allows you to bring your favourite products with you, and saves needless one-use toiletries from ending up in the landfill.

Need help picking the right one? Read my guide to reusable toiletry bottles for more info.

Have a re-usable bag handy

You can’t go wrong with a tote bag or two, and I always like to keep one in each purse when I travel.

You never know when you’ll need an extra bag, whether to haul goodies back from the market or simply carrying whatever souvenirs you’ve gotten that day, so remember to pack some.

Bring protective wraps

If you’re travelling with an expensive camera, or anything else fragile, I highly recommend these amazing protective wraps.

I bought mine a few years ago and use them every trip. They’re padded velcro wraps that you can use to protect…. pretty much anything! So handy and they don’t take up too much space.

Alternatively, you can also look into product-specific protectors, like these awesome wine protectors to ensure your precious cargo doesn’t break in transit.

Read up on Parisian style

Pop culture (shaking my fist at you, Emily in Paris ) has brainwashed us into thinking that Parisian style is all about red berets and black/white striped tops. This is not the case at all!

If you want to dress as locals do in Paris, you should definitely read more about how Parisians like to dress – which is often described as chic and effortless. This guide is great for learning the basics!

Pack “monochromatic” if you want to blend in more

Bright colours and patterns are fun and I wear them all the time, but (building on the Paris packing tip above), if your goal is to blend in with the style of Parisians, monochromatic colours are a good idea.

But honestly, just wear whatever makes you feel comfortable and chic! Life is too short to worry about what others might be thinking.

… but I draw the line at a red beret.

Final Paris Travel Tips You Must Know Before You Go

Okay, last but not least, here are some miscellaneous Paris trip tips that will help ensue your trip to Paris is as magical as you always dreamed!

Get Your Expectations Straight

Paris is beautiful, yes… but when you spend a lifetime pining over black and white postcards and repeat-screenings of Amélie or Emily in Paris , you start to get reality a little twisted in your head.

Paris is stunning, but it also has its ugly bits. It can be crowded, smelly, the people (both locals and tourists alike) can be rude, and ugh, there is truly nothing worse than stepping onto a scorching Metro car during rush hour.

That, my friends, is where dreams go to die.

But if you come in with realistic expectations, if you say to yourself “hm maybe I MIGHT have ten other heads in my Eiffel Tower selfie” or “hey, who doesn’t like random wafts of urine stench?” then you’ll be just fine.

Paris is one of those cities you need to love in spite of its imperfections, not because it’s objectively perfect (like Instagram might have you believe).

Schedule in some people watching time

Sitting around, enjoying the vibe, and people watching is one of Paris’ greatest joys.

If you don’t allow yourself some free time to sit around and judge people walking by (it’s a cultural experience I swear), you’re seriously missing out.

Know that the floor system is different here

A very common misunderstanding for tourists in Paris relates to which floor they’re on in a building. How come? The numbering system for floors in France is actually different than in North America – whee!

It’s not too important to know the specifics of why, but the 2nd floor in North America would be considered the 1st floor in France, because in France, the ground floor (1st floor in North America) is the “Rez-de-chaussée” rather than the 1st floor.

… Sorry, that sounds a little confusing, but I hope you get what I mean.

You can read more about the topic here.

Carry change for public bathrooms

If you’re used to peeing for free back home, sorry – there’s often a charge for public bathrooms in Paris, especially in busier areas like parks.

Usually the fee is 50 cents or a euro, so be sure to have some coins with you in case nature calls.

NOTE: There are Sanisettes on the streets of Paris which are free, but I’ve always had trouble finding one whenever I’ve actually needed it. Just Sod’s Law I guess!

Know how to find free WiFi

WiFi for tourists is a big deal – I get it! Luckily, there’s a lot of free hotspots scattered around Paris.

Here are some Paris tips for always finding free WiFi:

• Head to (or outside) a McDonalds or Starbucks – they always have WiFI
• Download an app like Wifi Map which will help you find hotspots
• Look on FourSquare, where people will often share the password of protected hotspots in the tips section

Keep receipts for a VAT refund

If you come from outside the EU and plan to do a lot of shopping, you may qualify for a VAT tax refund when you leave Paris. This can amount to huge amounts depending on what you buy!

To qualify, you have to be a non-EU resident older than 15 years of age, and you need to spend more than 175 euros in one store in one day.

Here’s more info on how to claim your VAT refund before you leave France.

Don’t take rudeness personally

Parisians have a reputation for being rude.

As with all generalizations, this isn’t true of all people in the city, but sadly, the stereotype can hold true.

Especially if you’re used to overly friendly North American customer service, your reception in Paris might feel especially frosty.

But let me clue you in on a little secret, my very special secret for loving Paris: its called the subtle art of not giving a duck  (confit), if you get what I’m saying.

Seriously, just don’t care. Laugh it off. Maybe imagine spitting on them in a dramatic dream sequence, but then carry on twirling around and making memories.

… You’ll love Paris so much more with that mindset.

Binge on movies set in Paris before your visit

While many visitors tend to romanticize Paris too much (resulting in a sad expectations vs. reality type situation upon arrival), the best way to get absolutely hyped for your Paris trip is to watch plenty of travel movies set there.

Here are a few I love:

• Midnight in Paris

Check out local events during your visit

Paris is a vibrant city with plenty to offer locals as much as tourists.

One of the best ways to get a feel for what it might be like to “live” in Paris is by attending one of the many awesome events happening in the city at any given time.

Sortira Paris is a great resource for current things happening in the city.

Use Instagram, Pinterest and Blogs to research more offbeat Paris activities

Guidebooks and Google are great, but if you really want to find Paris hidden gems that are specific to your interests, be sure to dig deeper!

I mean, if you’ve gotten this far on my blog, you’re probably off to a good start, but make sure you also sleuth through Parisian Instagram accounts and blogs, in addition to Pinterest to find more great stuff to do.

You might find my guide on How to Find Cool Stuff to Do Near You helpful.

Use Google Maps to save spots you want to see

Google Maps is an amazing resource not just for navigating a new city, but also for saving spots you might want to visit in the future.

One of my favourite travel hacks is starring every location I deem interesting on Google Maps. You can do this by pressing the Save button when you search up that spot.

This allows you to have a visual map of all the cool cafes, street art murals, attractions, restaurants, etc. that you’ve saved during your research, which means you can easily organize your itinerary/sightseeing.

I love doing this because I’ll often end up in new areas during my explorations, and I can just look at my map to see if anything interesting I read about happens to be nearby. Saves a lot of planning!

Lastly, visit more of France Besides Paris

Okay, here’s a bonus Paris tip: I beg you to explore more places in France besides just Paris!

France is one of my favourite countries in Europe because it has SO much to offer, from the fairytale towns of Alsace to the turquoise coastlines of Normandy.

France is way more than just Paris, so that’s my final Paris tip for you – be sure to come back and see more of the country.

I hope this list of Paris travel tips was helpful!

Quite frankly, if you made it this far, I think you deserve some kind of medal! This was a VERY long list of tips for Paris, but if you have any more questions, let me know in the comments.

My Go-To Travel Favourites:

🧳 Eagle Creek: My favourite packing cubes

💳 Wise: For FREE travel friendly credit cards

🍯 Airalo: My go-to eSIM

🏨 Booking.com: For searching hotels

📷 Sony A7IV: My (amazing) camera

✈️ Google Flights : For finding flight deals

🌎 WorldNomads: For travel insurance

🎉 GetYourGuide: For booking activities

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15 SECRET Paris Tips for Your Paris Vacation!

By: Author Girl with the Passport

Posted on Last updated: April 1, 2022

Categories Europe

My non-existent psychic powers tell me that you are traveling to Paris for the first (or fifth) time and are in desperate need of some expert Paris tips?

Am I right?

I know, not at all impressive since the title kind of gives it away but honestly, these Paris travel hacks are pretty useful, even if you’re not traveling to Paris for the first time.

Because Let’s’ Be Honest:

Whether you’re traveling to Paris France for the first time or the tenth time, whether you’re visiting in the summer or exploring Paris in the winter , all travelers can make mistakes.

Sadly, it’s one of those Rather Annoying Parts of the Human Condition. Sigh.

I mean, I’ve gotten on the wrong subway train in New York City and I’ve lived here for well over twenty years.

These Paris tips and tricks are a great refresher course for anyone, especially someone who is always traveling alone in Paris , like me.

Plus, I’m Accident Prone:

So this post is as much for me as it is for you.

#KEEPINITREAL

But seriously, we all have places to go and people to see.

 So, without further ado:

Let’s check out this list of 15 super secret Paris tips. And yes, prepare to have your mind BLOWN!

Maybe “blown” is a bit of a strong word.

Regardless of how you feel about my tips, I do promise that you’ll laugh, laugh, and laugh some more at some fo the hilariously awkward travel situations that always seem to get myself into!

Since I am, SADLY, incapable of making it rain money, this post may contain affiliate links. Please see my disclosure for more information. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases.

 1. Try to Visit the Louvre on either a Wenesday or Friday Evening, When the Museum is Open Late.

One of my favorite Paris tips is to visit the Louvre on either a Wednesday or Friday evening when crowds are a bit less intense.

Not surprisingly, Musee the Louvre gets insanely crowded, especially during the summer.

Well, not only is the Louvre probably the most famous museum in the world but the Louvre artworks are some of the most important and iconic pieces in all of art history, like the Mona Lisa.

I mean, it was an important Dan Brown novel location so clearly, the Louvre is a big deal.

***Plan out what art pieces are at the top of your must-see list before entering the Louvre. This way you’ll have a game plan and can quickly and easily navigate through this insanely large museum.***

Anyone and everyone is trying to visit the Louvre as part of their first time Paris itinerary.

So If You Visit the Louvre During the Day in the Summer:

Not only will you hit a long line to purchase tickets but you’ll also hit a long line to procure an audio guide, and to present your ticket to enter the museum.

***If you have to visit during the day, then definitely book a Louvre Museum Timed Entrance ticket  NOW so that you can just walk right into the museum. Trust me, this is SO much easier and less stressful than waiting in line for hours, just to buy tickets (Pair that with waiting in line to get through security and you’ll have one epic wait indeed). Trust me on this! You have LIMITED time and do NOT want to spend your entire vacation waiting in line.***

I made this mistake and it was heinous. I waited so long and there were so many people, that I almost left because I got a huge case of the “eff its”.

So Be Wiser Than Me.

And visit the Louvre on either a Wednesday or Friday evening, when the museum is open until 9:45 pm.

You’ll be surprised by the number of people who leave early because they think that the Louvre hours is only open until 6:00 pm.

And if You’re Hungry Afterward:

Hop on the 7 Metro Line and take it to Le Peletier. From here, walk about 7 minutes to the iconic Le Bouillon Chartier Restaurant, for some authentic and totally affordable French food. And no need to rush since this restaurant is open until midnight.

PSST: The Louvre is closed on Tuesdays so don’t plan to visit on THAT day!

2. Assuming That It’s “Paris” So It’s Totally Safe

I didn’t Feel Unsafe in Paris.

But it’s a major city, so one of my best tips when visiting Paris is to be careful.

Just Because You’re in Paris:

Doesn’t mean that you’re in some sort of safety bubble and are, therefore, totally immune to danger.

Many scammers and thieves actually prey on the fact that you’re lulled into a false sense of security because you’re in Paris, the unofficial romance capital of the world.

So To Be Safe:

Be aware of your surroundings, try not to look like a tourist (So don’t be waving that selfie stick, huge camera, and money all around like a baton. Your basically telling the world you’re an ATM), avoid pickpockets in the metro and at major Paris tourist attractions by carrying your bag in front of you, never take all your cash and passport with you at one time, and never accept gifts from strangers or hand over a credit card or passport to anyone without asking for ID.

Nothing ruins a trip faster than getting scammed so it’s better to be safe than sorry (One of the worst mistakes I made in Barcelona, Spain ).

Also Be Careful at Night:

The last time I was in Paris for a day , I was walking along the Champs-Elysees, back to my hotel, and got this weird feeling that I was being followed.

I looked over my shoulder:

And I saw these two young men behind me. I slowed, they slowed. I walked quickly, they walked quickly.

I started to panic because I knew they were following me. I was about to run into a store to call the police, but they saw the fear in my eyes and immediately apologized.

In Reality:

They basically said I looked nice and wanted my number.

But Always Play it Safe:

You never know what someone’s real intentions are.

Always be aware of your surroundings, AKA you should probably get off your cell phone (No judgment. I do it too).

Which brings me to my next tip…

***Looking for some gear to help keep you safe while traveling to Paris? Awesome! Because somof of my ALL TIME FAVE, anti-theft products include a  Pacsafe messenger bag  (This bag has a slash-proof wire that runs through the strap, comes in a variety of different neutral colors, has locking zippers, and multiple, hidden pockets that block RFID readers from scanning your personal information),  a Personal Safety Alarm  (since you can’t really bring mace and pepper spray with you on a plane, this personal safety alarm is a good alternative since it’s small, easy to use, comes with three triple A batteries, and makes a loud noise when you press it during an emergency so that othera know that you need help), and a regular, everyday  lock , just to help keep your personal belongings extra secure.***

3. ALWAYS Buy Travel Insurance

Danger, danger Will Robinson!

Mom-sized lecture about the importance of travel inssurance coming at you in 5, 4,,3, 2, 1…

But in all seriousness:

I only mention the imprtance of travel insurance because I care. And I get it!

I too have forgone travel insurance in a vain attempt to save money beofre a fateful trip to Barcelona!

And the result?

Well, my bag was STOLEN and I was unable to get reimbursed for any of my stolen belongings since yeah, I didn’t have travel insurance!

If I had purchased a World Nomad Travel Insurance plan (Do Yourself a MASSIVE favor and get some Wolrd Nomads Travel Insurance NOW !), then I would have been reimburded for up to $1000 worth of lost belongings with their basic plan, and even more with their awesome explorer plan (This is now the plan I usualy get since I’m a travel blogger and always carry way more than a $1000 worth of gear).

Not only does World Nomads travel insurance cover almost any destination that you might ever want to visit (like Paris), but they also provide you with an amazing level of coverage that includes almost any travel disaster possible, short of being impaled by a rogue unicorn horn.

Their policies are also incredibly easy to customize, can even be extended, and or changed, while you’re on the road, and offer emergency medical coverage of up to $100,000!

Go forth, get travel insurance, and be the happy, not-so-little traveler that I know you want to be.

Because this lecture is now (THANKFULLY) officially OVER!

4. Definitely Go to the Arc De Triomphe  (SPOILER ALERT: I think the view from here is BETTER than the view from the Eiffel Tower).

The stunning view of the Eiffel Tower from atop the Arc de Triomphe.

Okay Maybe It’s Just Me:

But I have been to so many places and have seen so many “amazing views” that sometimes I just kind of want to save money and skip the view altogether.

Half the time, you pay $20 just to visit the top of a really tall building and snap some mediocre photos for ten minutes. You then begrudgingly browse the gift shop because you cannot believe that THAT was it. Then you go right back down again and vow, “never again”.

Anyone Else Feel Me?

It just feels so lame and like such a waste of time and money.

That’s Why:

I didn’t go to the top of the Arc de Triomphe on my first visit to Paris.

And I totally Regretted it.

At the time, I didn’t realize that the Arc de Triomphe has one of the best views of the Eiffel Tower in Paris.

A much better view than the one you get from the Eiffel Tower .

***That being said, I feel like it’s kind of mandatory to go to the top of the Eiffel Tower while you’re in Paris. I mean, if you don’t do this were you really in Paris at all? Exactly. Now me, I went LATE at night and thought, “Oh gee, I’ll skip the line”. Yeah no, There was a line to go through security and then another insane line to head to the top in an elevator (you can walk up but calves of steel are not my claim to fame). I eventually started to panic because thought the Eiffel Tower was going to close before I could go to the top. So if you must go to the top of the Eiffel Tower, save yourself the unnecessary stress and purchase your  Eiffel Tower, Second Floor Priority Access Pass  right here, right now! Also, if you want to try and avoid the crowds at the Eiffel Tower, then just take the stairs behind the Croatian Embassy and you might just find an amazing view that you can enjoy all by yourself (mostly).**

The tickets are cheaper than the Eiffel Tower and the wait times are much shorter, giving you extra time to explore some of the other, less touristy attractions in Paris.

Oh, I Almost Forgot:

You also get an amazing shot of the Champs Élysées from above.

What are you waiting for?

I’ll let you judge for yourself. Look above and see how amazing the view is. 

5. Don’t Assume All the Hotels in Paris are Insanely Expensive

The “first time in Paris where to stay” question is always a tricky one.

And PS, I Don’t Do Hostels. 

I’m sorry but I can’t. I did the whole dorm thing when I was like twenty and after hearing one too many couples gettin’ jiggy with it, I decided never again.

But I was Poor:

So I exclusively booked private rooms in hostels, with shared bathrooms, since I thought that was all I could afford.

But Then I Did a Little Research.

Yeah, these private rooms were MAYBE $10 cheaper than a room in a three-star hotel.

So duh, I was booking the hotel. Momma didn’t raise no fool. 

My latest trip to Paris was super last minute and it was August so I gave myself a little pep talk and prepared to cry when I saw the price of hotel rooms.

Shockingly, I found hotels for as little as $60 a night! And good ones too. Not a glorified cardboard box with a “scenic view of the Eiffel Tower”.

So Moral of the Story:

Don’t spend too much on hotels while in Paris! I booked the  Mercure Paris 9 Pigalle Sacre-Coeur (a four-star hotel in Montmartre) and  Villa Opera Drouot (a four-star hotel in the center of Paris) for less than a $100 a night! And if you’re traveling as part of a family, you can also read about some of the best places to stay with kids in Paris .

Why the two locations?

I like to get up early and beat the crowds to major attractions. And getting up early is much less painful if I am at a hotel that is close to the sight that I am getting up early to see.

When You’re Not a Morning Person:

It’s all about strategy my dear friends.

6. DON’T Sleep In Every day

As painful as it is, definitely try to get up early and avoid the massive crowds that overwhelm top, Paris attractions like Sacre Coeur in Montmartre.

I am an anti-morning person.

The LAST thing I wanna do on my day off is get up at the ASS CRACK OF DAWN.

But Guess What?

If you want some AMAZING views of the Eiffel Tower, without the population of a small country in your photo, then you’re gonna have to get up early.

It’s just a fact. 

And there are certain sights that you should plan on getting up early for if you actually want to enjoy Paris top tourist attractions without feeling like you’re in a herd of cattle.

If it’s super touristy, then plan on waking up early; attractions like Versailles Palace ,  Musée d’Orsay , Notre Dame, Sacre Coeur, Paris Catacombs,  Musée Rodin, etc. 

***If you are planning to visit Versailles Palace, especially in the summer, then I HIGHLY recommend getting the Versailles Priority Admission and Audio Tour . You can skip the ticket line and if you arrive early, the line for security shouldn’t be that long either. You can also try spending one day in Lyon while in France. *** 

7. FYI Macarons and Macaroons are NOT the same!

No, No, a Thousand Times No!

In Paris, you will enjoy Macarons, not macaroons.

Are macaroons even a thing anywhere else besides the US? I have no idea but a Macaron is a totally separate dessert and if you order a Macaron, expecting a macaroon, you’ll be really disappointed.

You are obligated to eat as many macarons in Paris as humanly possible because yes, it is your job.

Macarons are:

A traditional French, meringue-based cookie that is made with egg whites, icing sugar, granulated sugar, almond powder, and food coloring.

AKA they’re light and fluffy and delicious.

And these delectable desserts come in a variety of crazy awesome flavors like bubble gum, rose petal, caramel, pistachio, chocolate, etc.

In Contrast:

Macaroons are a small cookie, that is traditionally made with ground almonds, coconut, and sugar. Delicious but more dense, buttery, and coconutty than the French variety.

Don’t expect to find these coconut nuggets of delight in Paris.

***Some of my favorite places to indulge in the best macarons in Paris include Carrette, 25 Place des Vosges (great eclairs), Ladurée, 75, Avenue des Champs Elysees, Angelina, 226 Rue de Rivoli, 75001 Paris, Pierre Hermé, 4 Rue Cambon, 75001 Paris, and Fauchon, 30 Place de la Madeleine, 75008 Paris . ***

8. Skip the Show at the Moulin Rouge

I’ll Admit it:

I was young, naive, impressionable…and only like two years younger than I am right now. LoL.

But that’s my story and I’m sticking to it.

Obviously, one of the many major attractions in Paris is the Moulin Rouge, perhaps the most famous cabaret in the entire world.

I felt like I HAD to see a show at this iconic Parisian institution.

And Guess What?

It was not great, and that’s being nice. Not only were the tickets ridiculously expensive but I felt like the show was a bit tacky.

Fine. It’s a cabaret so obviously, you’re gonna see a nip or two. But the show was just very cliched and not as well done as I expected (Maybe my standards were too high. I am from NYC and associate Broadway with stage shows).

They had a woman randomly swimming around in a pool with an albino python.

Yeah, I Still Don’t Get it.

So clearly I was meant to see this show so that you don’t have to.

9. While We’re at it, You can Probably Skip the Catacombs too.

I swear I really love Paris!

But the Catacombs?

I don’t know, They kind of fell flat for me.

In Fairness:

I did wait a long time to get in so that might have tainted my experience, but I just didn’t find them that interesting.

In My Mind:

I expected this fascinating and exciting tour through one of the most macabre and haunted places in the entire world.

What I got?

A mediocre audio tour that relied too heavily on the ick factor of a series of skulls to create an entertaining Paris tourist attraction.

Please Don’t Hate Me. That’s Just My Opinion. You May Love it. 

Instead of visiting the Catacombs of Paris, I recommend exploring the  Père Lachaise Cemetery where Oscar Wilde, Jim Morrison, and various other icons of history are buried.

The cemetery is gorgeous and the tombstones are really interesting too!

Just take it from me and go to the bathroom at the front office, BEFORE you enter the cemetery. And that’s all I’m gonna say about that.

10. DON’T OVERSCHEDULE Yourself

I know there are a lot of amazing things to see in Paris , like the Palais Garnier pictured here, but try to not overschedule yourself and take some time to savor these amazing places.

With so many amazing day trips from Paris , it can be easy to overschedule yourself.

But don’t do it! It’s a trick!Trust Me:

You’ll only end up making yourself completely and totally miserable.

I know It’s Hard.

My natural inclination is to think, “Oh gee, shiny, pretty, enchanting historic city. Must visit every single attraction since I might never come back.”

Yeah, we call this travel ADD.

You see a shiny new Paris attraction and you have to visit. But don’t!

Part of the Pairs’ appeal is slowing down, relaxing, walking along the Seine, and having a picnic in one of Paris’ exquisite parks, like Jardin des Tuileries or Jardin du Luxembourg.

Savoir the joy of Paris.

Don’t stress yourself out and rush from one top attraction to the next, desperately trying to beat the ever-ticking vacation clock.

Pick a few sights that you really want to see and enjoy those.

You might actually be able to slow down and enjoy every moment of your precious vacation, especially if you’re American and get a lame two weeks of vacation a year. Boo! Hiss!

***Also take some time to get out of Paris and explore some of the amazing things that the rest of the country has to offer, like Limoges, France. ***

11. Get a Paris Museum Pass! LIKE NOW!

By the Way:

This is not a FULL list. I only included MAJOR Paris attractions here to show you that this pass will basically include everything that you’ll actually want to see.

The Paris Museum Pass also includes 20 super fab attractions OUTSIDE Paris, like Château de Versailles, Château de Fontainebleau, and Villa Savoye.

Still Not Convinced?

For the 2-Day Pass to pay for itself, you need to visit a minimum of 3 museums/monuments a day (aka visit attractions with admission fees that are the equivalent of €26 a day).

For the 4-Day Pass to pay for itself, you need to visit a minimum of 2 museums/monuments a day (aka visit attractions with admission fees that are the equivalent of €17 a day).

For the 6-Day Pass to Pay for itself, you need to visit a minimum of 1 or 2 museums/monuments a day (aka visit attractions with admission fees that are the equivalent of €12 a day).

Get your Paris Pass now and rejoice at the multitude of savings you’ll enjoy.

Feel Free to Buy Me a Trip Around the World with all Your Savings.

I accept cash, checks, credit cards, and money orders!

12. Be Prepared to Eat Dinner Late in the Evening, Since That’s What Most Parisians do!

When eating dinner in Paris, always remember that most restaurants won’t start serving dinner until around 7:30 pm.

Like in much of Europe:

Most Parisians tend to eat dinner right around the time that this Golden Girl is getting ready for bed (i.e. around 8:00 pm or 9:00 pm).

That’s why:

Take a trip to Paris and you’ll soon discover that most restaurants won’t actually re-open for dinner until around 7:30 pm (Yeah, most restaurants here do indeed close between lunch and dinner).

Yup, cue the heartburn for anyone in the audience who actually understands what Prilosec is.

So, plan accordingy and don’t expect to enjoy an uber-posh, Parisian dinner right at 6:00 pm, on the dot.

Head to a place like Hugo and Co. , in Paris’ famed Latin Quarter , for a divine, late night meal that will only cost you between $11 and $40 per person (Yeah, that’s cheap by Parisian standards!).

Not only does this place serve an array of amazing vegetarian and distinctly non-vegetarian entrees, but they also have an assrotment of wicked awesome small plates that are perfect for anyone looking to do a mini, culinary tour of sorts.

And if you’re not exactly sure what to order while you’re here:

Then you can’t go wrong with either the savory pancake with guanciale, the  breaded free-range porkchop with a fried egg, black rice, red cabbage, and curry sauce, or the black chocolate tart with cappuccino ice cream (Yup, that last dish is DEFINITELY my favorite).

13. Get the Skip-the-Line Ticket Before You Visit Versailles

Not surprisngly, a trip to Versailles is kind of an essential part of any Paris itinerary .

That is also the reason why you absolutely, CANNOT visit Versailles without first getting a skip-the-line, Versailles ticket here !

Everyone and their brother’s sister’s wife’s dog is gonna be there with you, exploring one of the most famous palace’s on Earth.

You really don’t wanna be “that guy” who has to wait in line for two to three hours, just to nab a coveted, Versailles entrance ticket (especially during the summer when it’s peak, tourist season).

Because by the time you do FINALLY get inside (since there is another long line for secuirty):

You’ll have to frantically dash around, desperately trying to seel everything before your bus deaprts for Paris.

Which is definiitely not how you wanna see Versailles (Unless you’re Forest Gump and actually enjoy running across America).

Instead, make a plan, prioritize what do you want to see for the day, and devote an entire day to exploring the grandeur of Versailles (Don’t miss the palace gardens and the Petit Trianon since both are flippng awesome).

***I know it may be tempting to try and pair your visit to Versailles with another popular day trip from Paris (like Normandy, Mont Saint Michel, Giverny, the Loire Valley, etc.) but DON’T. Trust me, there are plenty of things for you to do at Versailles that will make you want to spend the entire day there. Also, even if you do end up purchasing skip-the-line tickets, I’d still try and get there as easly as possible (like right when Versailles opens), just so that you can avoid wiaitng in a long AF security line.***

14. Avoid Visiting Paris in August

While the gardens at the Jardin du Luxembourg are beautiful during the summer, August is definitely not the ideal time to visit Paris.

Truth be told, summer is probably THE absolute worst time to visit Paris.

Not only is it crowded AF, but the lines to get in anyhwere are horrendous. Couple this with an ambient temperature that coould cook a raw egg and you have a rather hellish expereince, to say the least.

If you MUST visit Paris during the summer , then please do so in either June or July, when most local businesses are actually open.

Because not surprisingly, Guess what?

Yeah, Parisians actually want to take a vacation too!

If you do visit Paris during August, then you’ll probably find a ton of local businesses and restaurants closed since most locals take the month off and flee, I mean, er, take a break from, the beyond intense heat of Paris (If you need to visit Paris during August though, not to worry because all major tourist attractions will still be open).

If you can, heed my midlly safe advice and visit this amazing city during basically any other month of the year.

15. Use the Metro

The metro in Paris really isn’t that difficult to use.

There are a ton of different lines that you’ll need to navigate, but doing so is usually pretty straightforward.

The metro is infinitely cheaper (and faster, depending on traffic) than either the Hop On, Hop Off Bus or a taxi.

So I mean really:

Why wouldn’t you use it?

Just do yourself a favor and hold onto your ticket until you exit the train.

Because yes:

Police here really do check for your ticket while you’re inside the station.

To save money, try and purchase a carnet, or package of ten tickets, since, like with most things in life, buying in bulk is infinitely cheaper than purchasing tickets individually (You may also want to get the Navigo Pass if you plan on staying in Paris for more than a week).

And if you want to exit the train?

Yeah, you’re gonna have to press a handy dandy little button to do so since the doors on the train don’t open automatically.

You for sure do not want to end up like me and obliviously stand there while the matro station you were supposed to get off at just fades away into the distance.

And all because you forgot to push a button (I know. I felt like a total idiot)!

***Paris does indeed have Uber and, not surprisingly, it’s way cheapear than taxi. However, definitely don’t take an uber to the airport since riding the RER train there a much faster and cheaper!***

Get Your Free, Printable, Paris Travel Guide with 15 ESSENTIAL Paris Tips!

So there you have it, an exstensive list of my favorite paris tips and tricks, all of which will help you fall in love with this enchanting city, just like i did., keep these paris travel hacks in mind and i’m sure you’ll have an amazing trip to paris., any more questions, comments, concerns, or declarations of love (i like those), then feel free to say something in the comments below.

Tuesday 3rd of January 2023

Thank you for all the great tips! If we purchase the Paris Museum Pass, is there an option to add on the early or timed access so we don't have to wait in line?

girlwiththepassport

Saturday 7th of January 2023

I think so but am not 100% sure. I would ask them because no one wants to wait in line.

Tuesday 5th of March 2019

I’m going to be in Paris for the first time next month. We only have 3 days. And guess what? We're not going to the Louvre! Seems shocking, but neither my friend nor I are museum people. It sounds like a mob scene and we’d both rather walk around and see other things.

Wednesday 6th of March 2019

hey, it's not for everyone and there is so much to see and do in Paris that you probably won't miss it at all! Enjoy and have a fabulous trip!

Sanne Grieten

Wednesday 25th of July 2018

I went to Paris with my sister several years back. We did everything in a hurry, so it's time to go back this year! Even though we did everything really fast, we saw and experienced many attractions like the view of the Arc De Triomph and so on ;)

Thursday 26th of July 2018

Oh I am so glad to hear that! I feel like I could spend months in Paris and still not see it all. When will you be going back? And have a blast! I am so excited for you.

Shivani Sharma

Saturday 21st of July 2018

I swear I regret not going up to the Arc De Triomphe so badly that I want to go there all over again only for that..ha ha..And I didn't know the difference between Macaron & Macaroon ;)

Me too! I thought it would be lame. But nope. So glad I'll get to go back. And me neither until I went to Paris!

Caitlin Nguyen

Great tips! I totally agree about the great view from the top of the arc de triomphe!

It really is an amazing thing to see.

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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.

Top Travel Hacks for Paris

• 29 September 2021
• Travel Hacks

Top travel tips for Paris

Paris is a city that has been the home of so many visitors in the past few years. It’s beautiful, romantic, and full of life—it can also be an expensive vacation spot. But there are ways to save money on your trip without compromising on quality or safety. From public transportation to biking, cheap eats and tipping culture, and tourist traps to be aware of, we’ve got all 10 top hacks you need to know to make the best of your Paris trip.

1. Before You Go

Traveling to a different country can be exhausting. Between packing, customs, and lugging around heavy suitcases, you may be stressed before you even get on the plane. There are ways to make your time at the airport a little bit easier. First, remind yourself that your business trip can be set up for success easily by signing up for services like TSA PreCheck .  Secondly, keep track of your bags during check-in and use brightly colored luggage tags so that you’ll easily find them once your plane lands. Third, keep one of your carry-on bags filled with documents you’ll need at the airport, like your passport, ID, boarding pass, and any information like what gate you’re at, what time boarding starts, and more.

2. Plan Out Everything You Want to See on a Spreadsheet

Spending an entire month won’t cover everything there is to see, but a spreadsheet can help keep you organized and keep track of the restaurants, museums, shops, and other sites you want to visit. Use this spreadsheet to keep track of reservations, when places open and close, how much tickets cost for museums and other attractions, and the best ways to get there.

By planning out everything you want to see and do, it’ll be easier to get the most of your time in Paris. Make sure to also keep track of which museums are free on certain days and events that are happening around the city. This will help you save time and money when deciding where to visit in Paris.

3. Getting From the Airport to the City

Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport is the largest international airport in France and one of the busiest in all of Europe. CDG Airport is 18 miles northeast of Paris and the best way to get into the city is by taking a train. There are two different RER trains that go from CDG airport to central Paris, station Châtelet-Les Halles or Gare du Nord. To pay for a train ticket, you can buy a carnet, which is ten single-ride tickets. The RER B train costs €14 per person and it takes around 45 minutes to get into the city. There are also buses that go from CDG airport to Paris for about 30€ each way or taxis cost roughly 50€ one way depending on traffic conditions.

There are plenty of other ways to get from the Paris airport into the city, but most travelers will take a taxi or car service because of language barriers or the fact that they will be dropped off at their destination with no extra stops along the way. For payment, most Paris taxi drivers take credit cards, but it is best to have cash on hand in case they do not. The drive from the airport into Paris can take anywhere between 30-60 minutes depending on traffic and if there are any road closures or accidents along the way.

4. Travel to Paris by Train

The TGV is the fastest train in France and one of the best ways to get from another French city into Paris. The majority of trains can travel at speeds up to 200 miles per hour, but a trip from Southern France could take as little as two hours if there are no delays or track closures along the way. The central station for TGV is the Paris Gare de Lyon and the closest train station to downtown is Gare du Nord.

You’ll be able to find your way around, but locals are often willing to help out tourists who ask politely. It helps if you know some french phrases like “Pardon Monsieur (pardon, sir)” or “S’il vous plait Madame (please, ma’am).”

5. Learn French Fast

Learning a language isn’t an easy feat and while it’s unlikely that you’ll become fluent before your trip, there are apps and programs available that will help you make your way throughout the city.  Apps like DuoLingo, Rosetta Stone, and Babbel are highly regarded and can help you learn conversational French and must-know phrases. It’s likely you’ll find that many Parisians speak fluent English, but you’ll find it helpful to know as much of the language as possible, especially if you’re planning on a long-term stay.

Common French phrases include:

• Hello – Bonjour
• Goodbye – Au revoir
• Thank you – Merci beaucoup
• Do you speak English? – Parlez vous anglais ?
• How much is this? – Combien est ce que cela coûte ?
• I’m hungry – J’ai faim
• I’m thirsty – Je soif
• I want to go home – J’ai envie d aller chez moi

6. Know How to Find Comfortable Accommodations

Finding the perfect accommodations for your trip can be tricky, especially if you’re planning on staying longer than a normal 7-day trip. You’ll want to find something comfortable, close by, and doesn’t break the bank. Paris has a wide range of accommodations, but if you’re looking to stay somewhere that won’t cost an arm and a leg. Research sites like The Homelike (That’s us!) to find furnished apartments, townhomes, and houses that are cheaper than a hotel. You’ll find both short term rentals as well as long term rentals in Paris on the Homelike site. 

You’ll also want to consider the location of wherever you decide to stay. Do you want to be in the middle of the action? Or, do you prefer a quiet street with a cafe or two? Whatever it is you’re after, you can find accommodations to rent outside of hotels. These places can also help you save money since you’ll have a kitchen that you can make your own meals in when you don’t feel like going out.

7. Find the Best Paris Neighborhoods to Explore

Is your trip going to be focused around food and famous French cuisine? Then you’ll want to stay in Le Marais or Strasbourg Saint-Denis. These two neighborhoods are right in the center of Paris and they’re home to some great local food, bakeries, cafes, bars and restaurants that won’t break your budget. They also have lots of shops for you to explore with unique finds that will make perfect presents or souvenirs.

More interested in the arts or visiting museums? Explore the Le Quartier Latin , which is home to the Sorbonne University and some great museums like the Musée de Cluny or Saint Germain des Pres that is home to the Orsay museum.

Are you looking for a more quiet neighborhood so you can wind down without all the crowds of people? Check out Montmartre and the Le Marais. If you’re looking to get lost in Paris, then wander into Le Quartier de l’Odéon or the Panthéon neighborhood for some local shops and cafes that will show you a side of Paris less traveled.

To know more about neighborhoods in Paris, check out our useful guide on the best neighborhoods in Paris .

8. Cheap Eats and Paris Tipping Culture

There are plenty of options throughout the city that won’t have you breaking the bank at every meal. To find these options, look for small, independently owned restaurants that you won’t see big name chains. Though some of these eats may not have Michelin star reviews, the hidden hole-in-the-wall restaurants often have some of the best food, without the expensive price tag. For a list of inexpensive Paris restaurants, check out these 14 Paris cheap eats .

As far as tipping goes, you don’t need to tip in most restaurants if a service charge has already been added to your bill (note that this is different than the general 18% gratuity). If there isn’t an automatic service fee included on your check, round up and leave about five euros for each person eating at the table.

In addition to cheap eats, you can also book amazing food tours in Paris such as making pains au chocolat, macarons, croissants etc.

9. Avoid the Paris Tourist Traps and Make Your Own Adventure

Because you’re probably not going to be spending most of your time in Paris indoors, head outside and explore the city. From climbing up stairs to get an incredible view from Sacre Coeur to checking out classic French street art on Montmarte, there is so much of the City of Lights that remains unknown by tourists. Travelers who go off the beaten path will discover areas that make the city so unique.

Don’t waste time waiting around to get into museums and monuments—buy a Paris museum pass . This is one of our favorite Paris travel hacks because it allows you to skip the line at all popular attractions in town, which means more time for fun activities instead of wasting away hours on endless lines.

Another way to avoid the typical Paris tourist traps is by renting a city bike, as we touched upon earlier. This is also one of our favorite Paris travel hacks because it allows you to explore the city at your own pace, while avoiding long lines and dealing with public transportation.

Paris offers free Wi-Fi in many areas across town which makes staying connected easy when traveling. You can use any number of apps to help you get around. Finally, talk to the locals. When you stop in for your morning cappuccino, strike up a conversation with a friendly looking customer and ask for some of their recommendations.

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Paris on a budget: 7 travel hacks to save on your trip

The French capital is one of the first places that comes to mind when thinking about traveling to Europe. Images of Notre Dame Cathedral, the Eiffel Tower, and the Arc de Triomphe are bound to come up. These are some of the most iconic landmarks in the world and are well worth the trip to Paris. The culinary, nightlife, and art scenes are also world-class cultural offerings that make this a must-visit city. All of this may sound expensive, but there are ways to visit Paris without spending an unreasonable amount of money. 

Planning ahead is the best way to save money while visiting Paris. Not only can you find flight deals and less expensive lodging, but you can also plan out your activities and places to eat so that they match your budget. Finding free walking tours, delicious but inexpensive food, and low-cost activities can certainly be done.

Planning ahead will also help you with logistics like luggage storage in Paris , travel insurance, discounted metro cards, and walking or cycling. 

Here are some travel tips for visiting Paris on a budget: 

Cheap places to stay in Paris 

Like other major European cities, Paris has a wide variety of accommodations, and each Paris neighborhood has its own vibe. There are some of the nicest hotels in the world, there are bespoke Airbnb and rentals, and there are also hostels for younger travelers and backpackers to “rough it” for a few nights. For visiting Paris on a budget, you’ll certainly want to explore the city’s hostels to save money. Typically, a night in a shared room starts around €25. A private room will start around $50. 

Here are a few examples:

The Loft Boutique Hostel & Hotel

Even in an opulent city like Paris, there’s nothing cooler than a loft. But a trendy hostel in repurposed loft spaces in Paris’s coolest up-and-coming Belleville neighborhood? Even better. And they charge less than €40 for a night at said hostel? That’s what you get at Loft Boutique, which combines coolness and comfort at a low cost. 

Woodstock Montmartre

If you couldn’t tell by the name, this charming hostel takes its decor cues from the 1970s. The rooms are comfortable, especially at the starting price of €30, but the social vibe and incredible location near Montmartre and Sacré-Coeur make this even more of a steal. The hotel's bar has cheap beer and an awesome atmosphere, especially on weekends.

St. Christopher’s Canal

At under €30 for a night, this chain has all the best amenities that keep loyal backpackers backpacking through their various locations time after time. This specific location even has an incredible rooftop terrace with a full bar.

3 Ducks Hostel

It’s incredible to think you can sleep in a bed less than a 10-minute walk from the Eiffel Tower for less than €30 a night. At 3 Ducks Hostel , their simple but pleasant amenities and dirt-cheap bar make it one of the coolest places to stay in Paris, especially if you’re trying to save money.

Cheap things to do in Paris 

You can save money AND have an amazing time on your Paris trip. Here are a few tips and tricks for having the best time possible in a major city like Paris.

Grab a Paris Museum Pass

One of the best ways to explore Paris is by visiting its world-class museums. There are dozens of them in Paris, whether it’s the Louvre (ever heard of it?) or the Palace of Versailles. It can be overwhelming just to plan trips to these museums, let alone pay for all of it. That’s why Paris Museum Pass es provide excellent value to first-time visitors looking to fit a number of museum visits in during their trip to Paris. For less than €50, you can get free or discounted tickets to the best Parisian landmarks and museums for two days. If you go to three different museums, this Museum Pass pays for itself. Even more importantly, Pass holders can often skip the long lines at these places.

Arènes de Lutèce

If you’re a history buff and have already spent hours upon hours inside museums across Paris, you’ll definitely want to get outside and explore Paris’s fascinating past as an outpost of the Roman empire. There are Roman ruins in the Latin Quarter, including an impressive amphitheater where gladiators fought. All the ruins are impeccably preserved, and it’s entirely free to visit. 

Promenade in Parc Monceau

The French must have a morbid streak because some of Paris’s most popular attractions are historic cemeteries. Parc Monceau gets the same tourism traffic as some museums, but you’ll only ever understand why if you tour this beautiful park. The lush landscapes, impressive promenade, and historical importance all make this place a worthwhile stop during your trip to Paris, and it’s completely free. This was a go-to place for Monet to paint, so art enthusiasts will want to check out a walking tour of Parc Monceau as well. 

Explore the Cimitière du Montparnasse

This is one of the most famous cemeteries in the world, in part because of its illustrious (permanent) residents. Cimitière du Montparnasse is the final resting place of some of France’s most famous literary and intellectual luminaries. Jean-Paul Sartre, Samuel Beckett, and Simone de Beauvoir are just a few names of those interned at Montparnasse. It’s a quick ride via Metro Line #6 and entirely free to tour. 

Wander through the gardens

Much like its cemeteries, Parisian gardens are world-famous tourist destinations, and for a good reason. These are essentially public parks and thus free to tour, just with impeccably manicured landscapes and some of the most beautiful grounds you’ll ever stroll through. 

The most famous of these is the Jardin du Luxembourg, which is adorned with wonderful statues throughout the grounds. There are also classical and modern art exhibits programmed throughout the year. The Gardens of the Louvre are another must-visit garden to explore.

Cheap places to eat in Paris 

Whether it’s exploring a solid street food scene or having a picnic, you can definitely eat some delicious food while visiting Paris on a budget. French food from a classic bistro or café is part of the draw to traveling to Paris, so we would certainly recommend setting some funds aside for a traditional (if indulgent) Parisian dinner. 

Make a picnic

Head to the local grocery store, or even better, check out one of the many amazing Parisian markets to grab ingredients for a homemade picnic. Rue Mouffetard is another hotspot for bakeries, wine stores, cafés, and cheese shops, called fromageries. Head to this delightful cobbled street to stock up on provisions for a picnic. The best settings for a Parisian picnic are the Canal St. Martin or any public park. People watching over some cheese, charcuterie, a baguette, and a bottle of wine is a quintessential Paris experience. 

Bouillon Julien

If you’re going to go for the full French dining experience but can’t see yourself dropping more than €40 for dinner, Bouillon Julien is the place. Not only is this stylish Art Nouveau bistro a fun atmosphere, but it also serves delicious upscale French classics, including wine, at less than €20 for an entree. Try their confit de canard or their coquelet grillé (roast chicken and fries).  

Café du Coin

During the day, Café du Coin is an espresso bar where busy Parisians grab a coffee and a pastry before (not so hurriedly) heading to work. Late afternoon, it’s all about their apéro hour, where small plates and wine become the name of the game. They are also known for their €5 “pizzette” snack that comes with a variety of creative ingredients. It pairs perfectly with a glass of wine. 

Chez Alain Miam Miam

If you’re going to visit Paris, you should definitely eat at least one proper Parisian café. This third Arrondissement hangout is the perfect lunch spot. Their rotating menu of sandwiches, galettes, salads, and baked goods all feature fresh, seasonal ingredients, all at reasonable (€5-€10) prices. 

Ground Control (La Résidence)

If you want to save money while eating at a restaurant with a charitable cause, there’s only one place to eat in Paris. Ground Control supports refugee funds and organizations by providing food and other contributions. They also have a sneaky-great menu of Ethiopian and middle-eastern favorites for reasonable prices. 

Cheap Bars in Paris 

Drinking and trying to save money can be mutually exclusive endeavors, but Paris is a surprisingly affordable (compared to other major cities) place to grab a beer or glass of wine. Here are a few of the best cheap bars to drink in Paris on a budget: 

Located along Canal Saint-Martin, this is one of the cheapest jazz bars in Paris. With charming but kitschy decor and dirt-cheap drinks, it’s almost a “dive jazz bar,” if you will. It gets crowded and (a little) rowdy on weekends, but you're pretty much guaranteed a good time without leaving your wallet completely empty.

Le Crocodile

This Quartier Latin cocktail bar has more than 300 drinks on the menu, many of which cost between €5 and €8. 

Chez Georges

Located in Odéon, this student hangout is the perfect place for trendy travelers to hang out and drink a few glasses of wine on the cheap. Look into the natural wine selections.

Le Requin Chagrin

One of the cheapest places to drink delicious craft beer, this cozy Quartier Latin pub is delightfully shabby. Their tasting platter of flavorful beers is particularly popular with local students. 

Le Teddy's Bar

This no-frills Quartier Latin pub has an incredibly generous happy hour that lasts from 3:30-8 pm. Even better, the drinks remain affordable once the clock strikes 8.

Bonus Travel Tips For Paris on a Budget

Avoid the hotspots when you can .

In terms of eating, drinking, and shopping, the best way to make your newly-purchased euros go far is by avoiding the tourist hotspots near major landmarks and attractions. It’s hard to find a cheap meal near the Eiffel Tower. In any case, checking out spots where actual locals hang out is a more authentic experience. 

Getting around Paris on a budget

The most expensive way to get around Paris is by taxi or rideshare. That’s a given. It may seem tempting to traverse a massive, sprawling city like Paris the easy way, but you’ll blow through your budget pretty quickly. If you’re going to be jetting across the city, use Paris’s wonderful public transportation network. The Metro has impressive coverage of this fairly large city and is certainly worth using if you’re trying to pack in a lot of activity during your trip to Paris. Buy a “carnet” of 10 tickets at a Metro station to save time and money for using the subway. If you’re using the metro more than a few times a day, a Mobilis travel card can be purchased for unlimited use. 

The best and most inexpensive way to get around Paris is by foot or by bicycle. Depending on what your day’s goals are, walking between landmarks, restaurants, and stores is the easiest and cheapest way to get around. In order to do this efficiently, plan activities in geographic clusters. Keep an itinerary based on a neighborhood or landmark, and walk between each stop. 

Biking is an even more efficient way to do this as well. Check for rental companies near your hostel. Better yet, check with your hostel to see if they have bikes for rent. There’s also a self-service bike service called Vélib, which is affordable. Americans from cities like New York and Chicago will recognize these docking stations throughout the city. 

Visit during the off-season

Paris can be one of the more expensive cities in Western Europe. But when it’s not summer, or “the high season,” things can get considerably more manageable. Whether it’s a cheap flight (and not just through budget airlines) or discounted room at a hostel, you can find better deals during fall, winter, and early spring. The rule of thumb here is to plan your trip around whether or not school is in session. Once the schools are out, everything gets more expensive and crowded. You can also set alerts on Google Flights to find the cheapest flights on major airlines. Luckily, Paris is beautiful every day of the year.

Whether it’s visiting during the off-season or sticking to free activities like appreciating the Eiffel Tower, Sainte Chapelle, or Arc de Triomphe from the street, you can definitely visit Paris on a budget and still have a wonderful time. While Paris is renowned for its amazing cultural offerings and cuisine, you can still experience the best of the French without having to spend every penny to your name. All it takes is a little planning. 

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Hi! We are Alex, Pam, & Jess. A trio of moms who love to travel!  We have spent the last few years mastering how to travel for nearly free using credit card points. Now we want to share what we’ve learned so you can be off on your own adventures. 

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July 22, 2021

The ultimate paris itinerary: using points, destinations , europe.

One of the most sought-after destinations in the world is Paris. No need to add the name of the country,  everyone knows of this romantic, beautiful city. Here is our ultimate Paris itinerary and how you can use points to get and stay there for nearly free. It is a dream vacation and one you should definitely plan for!

Table of Contents

To find award flights, I start by checking out this site to see some possibilities. Here’s what I find when I put in all my info. I put in a business class flight, but you could put in economy class also.

Looking at this, I can see that I could transfer some AMEX points into ANA, and that’s a great idea. I could use United miles for Lufthansa or use some of my Alaska miles. One thing to note is that when you actually go to the sites, it could be different. It is a great starting point for me, though, and shows who you can transfer some of the transferable points to.

When I looked on ANA for business class seats, there were none available for my 10/14-21 dates, but I did find economy class.

I could fly ANA for 55,000 miles in economy class on Lufthansa Airline (both are Star Alliance partners). I would just transfer my Membership Rewards to ANA.  Currently, the  American Express Gold has an offer of 90,000 Membership Rewards after spending $4000 in 6 months. This one credit card will pay for this flight.

Another idea is to start with the points I already have, United miles. I’m going to check into economy class tickets. Currently, the Chase United Quest  gives you 90,000 United miles after spending $5000 in 3 months, and the Chase United Explorer Credit Card  gives you 70,000 United Miles after spending $6000 in 6 months.

I can find the same redemption available on a return flight. So for 60K and $11.20, I can fly roundtrip to Paris in economy class.

Here are my results for the business class. You always want to find results in Business Class Everyday Saver Awards because the Standard Awards are too high.

I can find the same flights for my return home, so for 154K miles and $23.00, I can get a round-trip ticket to Paris on United Airlines. This is a little high for European travel as I usually can get them for 70K each way, but I’d still do it for this or look on different dates for cheaper redemptions. Being flexible is key to finding good award redemptions. 

Hyatt Hotels

Hyatt hotel has great opportunities for award stays during your Paris trip. These include a luxurious stay at the Park Hyatt Paris-Vendome for 45,000 points. This hotel can cost almost $1,000 a night, so if you are going for luxury and a never-forget-it experience, you might want to consider this hotel. It will take a lot of points, but if you and a spouse get the Hyatt credit card and complete the maximum bonus spending requirements, you could have three free nights here.

You could stay for free at the Hyatt Paris-Vendome with credit card points!

A cheaper option for a Hyatt hotel might be the Hyatt Regency Paris Etoile Hotel for only 15,000 points a night. You can even enjoy Eiffel tower views from this hotel! Alex and I stayed here and loved it!

Hyatt Regency Étoile with this breakfast view!

You can stay at an IHG hotel in Paris for anywhere from 20,000 points a night to 90,000 points a night. It all depends if you want to stay in a Holiday Inn or an Intercontinental Hotel. There are also some mid-price Crowne Plazas available. Another great hotel in the IHG brand is Indigo Hotels.

The IHG Rewards Premier Credit Card currently offers 140,000 points if you spend $3,000 in the first three months on it. Additionally, you get a free night on your signup anniversary every year. For this reason, my husband and I keep this card.  You could stay at the Intercontinental Hotel for 75,000 points a night.

Marriott Hotels

There are several options for staying in the Marriott Hotel in Paris with points. It all depends on how many points you want to spend on your stay. Do you want luxury, or do you want more nights for your points? The old quality vs. quantity question always applies with point redemption.

You could stay at the Courtyard Marriott Gare De Lyon with points.

Marriott Westin Paris

Currently, many Marriott Cards offer bonuses of over 100,000 points after you meet a minimum spend of $3000 in 3 months.  If you and your spouse both get this card, you could stay for free in Paris at one of many Marriott hotels in the area.

Things to Know

On our Paris itinerary, we need to have some Euros, the money system used in most of Europe. As always, we will be using our credit cards for most purchases, but it is important to have some of the local currency on hand too. I usually grab some at an ATM at the airport. Be sure to let your bank know you are traveling internationally so you don’t get credit charges denied because of suspected fraud.

The main airport for arriving in Paris is the Charles De Gaulle airport (CDG). It is located in Roissy, France, which is about 14 miles northeast of Paris. It is the second busiest airport in Europe and a major connection to other cities.

Transportation into Paris

A cheap way to get to Paris from the airport is to take the regional RER train, which costs only about 10 Euros and takes about 30 minutes. Here is a detailed information sheet on how to use the RER train.

Taxis are a more expensive option at around 50-60 Euros, depending on how busy the traffic is. It will take about 45 minutes to one hour to get into the city center via taxi.

When I am new to a city, I like to book a pickup service from the airport. It makes me feel more secure to have someone waiting to pick me up, holding my name card, and safely taking me to my destination. Viator offers this service with shared shuttles and private shuttles that run from 20 Euros to 45 Euros.

Things to Do in Paris

Eiffel tower.

The queen of all attractions in Paris is the Eiffel Tower. Almost 7 million visitors come to this attraction each year! It was the star of the 1889 World’s Fair and was supposed to be torn down.  Lucky for us, it never was and has remained open.

The first time I went to the Eiffel Tower, I decided to walk up the stairs from the ground floor to the 2nd floor, a total of 674 steps. What I didn’t count on was that my agoraphobia would hit about halfway up.  I literally had jello legs and had to do a lot of self-talk to finish it. The next time, I took the elevator. From the 2nd floor, stop and enjoy the view.  Many people think this is the best view! When you are through, take the elevator to the top of the tower. This elevator ride is also not for the faint of heart – I moved to the back of the elevator, so I didn’t have to look out as we went up.

Because the Eiffel Tower is so popular, you might want to take a guided tour and skip the line. There are plenty of places to eat at the tower on every floor and many places to buy souvenirs. The 58 Eiffel Tower Brassiere and the Jules Verne Restaurant are both popular places to eat at the tower.

Pro tip:  Get tickets before you go to France.  If not, plan to be at the tower at least 30 minutes before it opens so you have a better chance of getting in. You don’t want to miss the Eiffel Tower on your Paris itinerary!

The Eiffel Tower is a must-see on your Paris itinerary!

Louvre Museum

I must admit, the first time I saw the Mona Lisa was both a thrill and a disappointment. She is such a small painting! The entire museum was amazing, and I thoroughly enjoyed my visit. I love to do audio tours whenever I visit a museum – I learn so much more about the paintings, sculptures, and artists. I heartily recommend doing a self-audio tour or a full-on tour when visiting the Louvre. Again, it is better to get tickets online before you plan to go. Can you even go to Paris and not have the Louvre on your itinerary? I love the juxtaposition of this modern architecture with the historic buildings nearby!

The Louvre Museum in Paris, France

Disneyland Paris

If you are traveling with your family, you will want to visit Disneyland Paris . Heck, it’s fun even if you travel as a couple or solo. It is the happiest place on earth, even in another country! It is the most visited attraction in all of Europe, but the crowds were pretty light on the day we went. Having been to Disneyland in Anaheim numerous times, I was able to be the perfect guide for my English relatives.

To save $500 on your Disneyland Paris park tickets, you will want to open the  Capital One Venture Card . After you spend $3,000 on the card, you will earn 50,000 venture miles which are worth $500 towards travel in the form of a statement credit on travel purchases. The key to all of this is buying your tickets from a travel site like GetYourGuide . If you buy your tickets from Disneyland directly, they won’t code as travel on your statement, and therefore you won’t be able to get a credit on the purchase. This will work for other tours you might want to take through GetYourGuide, so you might want to have your hubby get the same card and help pay for those tickets too.

Disneyland Paris is one of the happiest places on earth!

Palace of Versailles

The Palace of Versailles is a great addition to your Paris itinerary. It is a short train ride to Versailles (about 30 minutes) where it is a short walk to the palace. Definitely take an audio tour of the exquisite palace where Louis XIV and Marie Antoinette, among others, lived. Tickets range from 20 Euros – 73 Euros depending on if you get an audio tour, live tour, or no tour and skip the line or not.

The palace and living quarters are magnificent, but even better are the grounds. Here you will see ornate fountains, sculptured gardens, and classical sculptures. There are over 50 fountains on the grounds, and if you are there on the right day, you can enjoy a musical fountain show.

The magnificent gardens at the Palace of Versailles

Arc de Triomphe

One of the most famous landmarks in Paris is the Arc de Triomphe which sits at the top of the Champs-Élysées, the major street of Paris. Built to honor those who fought for France, it has the names of all the generals and the wars they fought in engraved on it. A swirl of traffic runs at its base. Literally, tons of cars drive around it. We were true novices on our first visit and tried to dodge all the cars to get to the Arch. Luckily, we weren’t hit, and it was then we noticed that there are underground tunnels that go under the street and come up next to the Arch. Such a rookie mistake! For 8 Euros, you can climb to the top and enjoy the view from there.

Hop On Hop Off Bus

If you are short on time, this is a great way to get an overview of the city and just get off and spend more time at the attractions you are most interested in. My first visit to Paris was only for two days; this was the first thing we did. I felt we got a great idea about what the city was about by this bus. We did spend some time at the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame (which unfortunately was recently demolished by fire), but a lot of our sites were seen from the hop hop off bus. If your itinerary to Paris is shorter than three days, this is a great way to see a lot.

Champs-Élysées

One of the most favorite streets in the world, the Champs-Élysées, is the perfect place to grab a beverage and people-watch. It is well known as the end of the Tour de France too. Known for some high-class shopping, you might want to do that too. It is definitely worth a stroll on your trip to Paris. No Paris itinerary should skip walking along this famous street.

Pro tip: As in most cities, the most famous streets do not have the best restaurant, so plan to eat somewhere else. However, grabbing a crepe or getting a macaron at Ladurée is definitely suggested.  You haven’t truly had a macaron unless you’ve had one at Ladurée in Paris!

Sainte-Chapelle

Located along the River Seine, this Gothic-style church has some very impressive stained glass windows and is the most beautiful church in Paris. I usually just pick one church in each city to go to, and this is my pick for Paris. Grab a skip-the-line ticket here . Walk along the banks of the River Seine after your visit.

Sacré-Coeur Basilica

The Sacré-Coeur Basilica is found in the Montmartre district of Paris.  The area itself is full of charm with its cobblestone streets and has a small village feel.  Artists have frequented this area, and you will see many practicing their craft in the area.

The Basilica sits on top of the hill and can be seen all over Paris. You can reach it by walking or riding the funicular. From the Basilica, you can enjoy an unbelievable view of the city. The Sacré-Coeur Basilica is open daily from 06:30 am-10:30 pm for tourists and those wishing to pray. You can download a free audio guide here .

Other Fun Things to Do in Paris

Take a cooking class.

I love to take a cooking class when I am in a different country!  Who wouldn’t love to learn to cook a French meal? Cookly offers great cooking classes in Paris – I’d love to take a macaron class there or a french pastry class.  Whenever I am in France, I am constantly looking for a great French pastry, and they are easy to find. There are great classes offered in French cooking, including a private cooking class in a French home! A cooking class is a great addition to our itinerary while we are visiting Paris.

Boat Trip on the Seine

A boat trip down the Seine River and dinner is a great option to see Paris at night. There are also other options during the day to float down the Seine and enjoy the views.

Bike Tour of Paris

One of my favorite ways to see any city is to combine exercise with sightseeing. A bike tour of Paris is a great way to spend a few hours, get the viewpoint of a local, and meet some new friends.

Pro Tip: If you have to check out of your hotel before doing an activity, use Bounce a luggage storage option in many large cities!

Where to Eat in Paris

Paris has some amazing food! Crepes, macarons, French pastries – what’s not to love? French food has long been known as some of the best food in the world, so we need to plan our Paris itinerary to include some serious eating! From cheap eats to Michelin-star restaurants, you can find it all in Paris. Things to remember when eating in Paris:

• Cheese is often a dessert and is eaten at the end of a meal.
• Tipping isn’t a percentage. One often just rounds up the bill or leaves 5-10 Euros for an expensive meal.
• Reservations are important, especially in nicer establishments.
• Bread isn’t an appetizer like it is in the states but is used more to sop up the delicious sauces French meals are known for.
• Eat with cutlery. The French think it is impolite to eat with their fingers!
• You need to request your bill, as it will not usually be given to you without a request.

There are several types of restaurants in Paris. A bistro is one type where the food is a little more inexpensive and not too fancy. These restaurants are usually more laid back and casual, and the food is more rustic. They are usually smaller too.

Another popular type of restaurant in Paris is a brassiere.  It is more like a brewery and more boisterous and larger than a bistro.

Here are some popular guides to the best places to eat in Paris:

The 38 Essential Paris Restaurants

Every Day Parisian

Shared Appetite

Bottom Line

Paris is a magnificent city with interesting places to visit, fantastic food, and beautiful sites. It should be on the destination list of every traveler. It becomes easier to visit due to using credit card points where we can save on flights, hotels, and even tours. We hope that this itinerary guide to Paris will help you plan your trip to this magical city! Alex and I recently returned from Paris , so you can read our post too!

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How to Travel Paris on a Budget PLUS My #1 Hotel Hack

So you want to travel, but you just don’t know how you can travel Paris on a budget? One of the questions I get asked the most is: “how can you travel so much? are you rich?”

Well, my friends, I have a secret to tell you:  I’m not rich . But I do have some tricks up my sleeve after over a decade of travelling regularly and living abroad. Plus, my  #1 hack  I use to stay in luxury hotels for WAY LESS.

Paris is one of the most visited cities in the world, and if you’ve been following along on my adventures for a while, you know I blog about it often because:

a. I love it

b. I used to live there and know it well

c. I go back almost every year

If you’ve been wanting to make a stop in the city of lights, but think its too expensive, think again! I’m here to share all the tips on how to travel Paris on a budget, so get that passport ready!

I live in California, so this post is going to be written from the perspective of somebody traveling from the USA to Paris, but the tips should work no matter where you’re flying from. Obviously, if you’re already in Europe, a lot of the costs would be even lower, since you’re closer.

These are the areas we will cover to help you learn how to travel Paris on a budget:

Accommodations

• Transportation around the city
• Activities/sightseeing

In my case, coming from California, flights are usually going to be one of the larger costs in my trip, but the good news is there are ways to help reduce these costs!

Book Smarter : There are a lot of ways to do this (many of which are broken down in  my post about flying tips ) but some of my favorite hacks are: consider visiting in the off-season (for Paris that means not summer), search for fares in ‘incognito’ mode on your computer, and use price monitoring sites to get alerts when prices drop. My favorite site to search for flights is  SkyScanner .

Use Miles : I love using my  American Express Membership Reward Points  to fly. How? I use my AmEx for almost every business expense and earn points for every dollar (plus bonus points!) AmEx lets me transfer those points to DOZENS of travel partners, where I can redeem using their loyalty programs. Want proof?  I recently shared how I used these membership rewards points  from my  favorite credit card  to book a round trip, non-stop flight from LA to Paris in Business Class, for less than the cost of economy. I only had to pay taxes and fees, instead of the nearly $6,000 the flight normally costs.

Consider Discount Airlines : If you live in a major city (or can get to one easily) you may be able to fly with international discount airlines, like Norwegian, for less than you thought! The one thing to remember is that these are USUALLY pretty basic, super economy fares. Baggage will cost extra, meals are often not provided, but they are a wonderful option for those on a budget.

Depending on how long you want to visit, accommodations are likely to be the next largest expense after travel. Again, considering I’m usually coming in from the states, its unlikely I want to go to Europe for less than a week, since the flights are quite long from the west coast. There are a lot of options to keep costs down when you are trying to travel Paris on a budget!

Hostels:  When I first started traveling, hostels were my best friend. Not only are they more affordable than your average hotel, they are a great way to meet people (which is a real plus if you’re traveling solo, too!). I can’t tell you how many times I booked hostels either for me or with groups of friends and we never had an issue. Hostels get a reputation for only being for the college crowd, but now-a-days you can find hostels for anybody! While some may be youth hostels, others have visitors of all ages, sometimes even families. If you’re on a really tight budget, this is a great option.

Home Rentals:  Whether you’re looking to rent just a room for yourself or as a couple, or want a whole apartment to yourself, often times home rentals, like  Airbnb , are less expensive than hotels. I’ve used both Airbnb and VRBO and had great experiences. Do your research and make sure to book through a reputable company, and you can be in for a treat! A lot of times you will also get some local’s tips from your host that can give you a really unique experience.

MY #1 SECRET HOTEL TRICK:

One of my FAVORITE websites EVER for booking hotels is  Hotwire . I use them ALL THE TIME. Honestly, I cannot speak highly enough about how much they have helped me travel more and stay on budget. In a nutshell, you enter in your dates and where you want to stay, and you get insanely good hotel prices. The catch? You don’t see the name of the hotel until after you’ve booked. But don’t worry! You can see things like star ratings, neighborhoods, types of hotels in that category, and even overall recommendations from past visitors. I took my mom to Paris a few years ago (it happened to be during fashion week) and we used  Hotwire . We got the most LUXE room ever at a hotel that would have been well over 1000 Euros a night for about $200. If you scroll to the bottom of this page, you can search directly for hotel deals for your destination!

Direct Booking Specials : If you’re not open to being surprised, and you find a hotel you love during your search, make sure to check out their website. We recently stayed an an amazing hotel I had my heart set on in Paris, and by booking directly with them, we were able to take advantage of a special they had for 15% off the lowest published price if you spent 5 or more days with them. It was a little more luxurious than budget friendly, BUT, we split the cost between the two of us, AND saved about 40% overall from the highest prices I had seen for that property.

Couch surfing:  This is the one I can’t speak to from personal experience, so please take this information and do your own research. Many people I know have used and loved the  couch surfing site , especially when they are solo and/or on a really tight budget. This site links you with locals who have ‘couches’ (sometimes guest rooms, etc) that you can crash on. If you are on an extreme budget, and comfortable doing this, it’s an option.

Transportation in Paris

Paris is a relatively compact city. I don’t say this lightly, or as a tourist who has been once. I lived there for over two years and walked A LOT. The city is very walkable, but depending on many factors, it’s likely you’ll want to have some transport options available besides your own two feet. Luckily, Paris is one of the best cities in the world for public transportation.

Metro :  The Paris metro  is one of the most extensive in the world, and can get you just about anywhere, especially when you are trying to travel Paris on a budget. One way (aller simple, in French) tickets for the metro system (including the RER and bus) are 1,80 Euros (at time of writing). If you are going to be in Paris for a few days and want to explore more extensively, I suggest the “ Paris Visite ” pass. It allows for unlimited access to public transport for 1,3, or 5 days. You can also choose between the geographic zones 1-3 (central Paris), or include all of the greater Paris area (think Versailles and Paris Disney) for a little more.

At time of writing, the 5 day zone 1-3 pass is less than 40 euros. That means that you can use all buses, metros, trams, night buses, and RER trains for less than 10 euros per day! You can look at all the  options and prices online  and purchase them before you go. However, buying them at the station is very easy. The machines work in multiple languages and take cash and cards.

Uber : If you have the Uber app downloaded, it will work seamlessly when you arrive in Paris. If you don’t need to move around enough to justify a metro ticket, OR if mobility issues are a concern and you want to avoid the stairs in some metros, you can use the uber app.

Velib : The city’s public bike share program is an option, especially if you enjoy cycling. This option makes the most sense if you will be in the city a little longer, as you’ll need to create an account to unlock and ride the bikes. Bike stations are location all throughout the city and you can return the rented bike at any open slot.

Scooters : Just like in San Diego and San Francisco, Lime and Bird scooters have arrived in Paris. Depending on where you want to go, you can use them relatively cheaply. Be cautious of traffic and rules when visiting another country!

Activities and Sightseeing

Part 1: official sights.

There is SO MUCH to see and do when in Paris, that the options alone can be overwhelming. Visiting every single museum and doing all the things can also do a number on your wallet when you trying to travel Paris on a budget! Luckily there are a ton of secret insider tips that can keep you busy without going broke.

Free Walking Tours:  Believe it or not, in many cities around the world you can find  AMAZING walking tours that are FREE *. Ok, well, almost free. They are led by guides that depend on gratuities for leading the group tours. However, giving them 5-10 euros for a couple solid hours of sightseeing, stories, and tips, is way less than most tours that charge up front. You can often find themed tours, of specific areas, or about food, art, churches, etc.

Free Museum Days:  Certain days of the month/year, access to museums is free! These days can be really crowded, but if your budget is tight and you have the time, it can save you money for sure. The first Sunday of the month, most museums are free to the public. There are also other ones that are free in general, and  there is an awesome post about them with the full list .

Discount Passes:  If you are going to be doing some SERIOUS sightseeing, you may want to consider the  Paris Pass . We have used the London version and because of all the things we wanted to do, it was a great deal for us. It’s not cheap, but it includes access to a ton of things and even a hop-on-hop-off bus tour.

Part 2: Local’s Faves

Picnics : One of my favorite things to do while in Paris is have a picnic (or five). I love going into a shop, or strolling through a market, finding some amazing treats, a bottle of wine, and heading for the park. Its also one way to pass a day spending very little! People watching is free, and if you go with friends, or make some at your hotel/hostel, you can split food costs. A few of my favorite places to picnic are Place des Vosges, Parc Monceau, and Champs de Mars (right in front of the Eiffel tower).

Markets : Open air markets are one of the coolest things about Paris, and you can use them as entertainment, even if you aren’t shopping.  Check out some of the best markets , grab some snacks and try new foods! The prices are usually better than anywhere you will find that is catering to tourists, so its perfect if you want to travel Paris on a budget!

Photo safari : I love taking pictures, even just on my iphone. Check out my  favorite instagrammable places in Pari s, and then take some snacks and head out on a day-long photo safari to capture images at these iconic spots.

I think one of the biggest misconceptions about going to Paris is that the food is wildly expensive, you know, since it’s so good. Well it’s half true: it’s good. But there is NO reason to spend all your money on food unless you want to. You can eat some of the best food you’ve ever had, all while staying on budget!

Breakfast : French breakfasts at cafes are usually pretty light, and if you walk a little off the beaten path, away from touristy areas, they aren’t very expensive. You can find a lot of great ones 8 euros or less. This will usually include a hot beverage, juice, and toast or a croissant. You can also pop into a bakery (boulangerie) and grab an amazing pastry to go for about 2 euros. Want an espresso? Another 2 euros.

If big breakfasts aren’t your thing you can save even more by shopping yourself. Head to a local grocery store, grab some essentials, and keep them in your room. Granola bars, bottled water, whatever tickles your fancy!

Lunch/Dinner:  As with most places, to save some money you’ll want to try to walk away from ‘touristy’ spots. Just a couple blocks (literally) can make all the difference. Lots of cafes or brasseries close in the afternoon, between lunch and dinner. If you see ‘service continu’ that means they are open all day and you can dine whenever. Small cafes are a great place to try some more authentic French options like locals would eat. You can order a la carte or from a ‘formule’ or prix fixe menu. I can usually find great little cafes to have light meals for 10-15 euros.

TIP : More ‘local’ cafes may or may not have English menus, so download the Google translate app before you go. You can use the camera function to translate the words on the menu into your language.

Snacks : don’t be tempted to blow your budget on tons of expensive snacks and treats designed to lure tourists. Yes, they are tasty, but if you’re on a budget, I suggest going to a grocery store (common ones you’ll see are Monop’/ Monoprix, Carrefour, and Franprix). Pick up some portable snacks to keep on you and keep you on track!

Was this helpful? Do you feel more confident that you can travel Paris on a budget? I hope so! If you have questions, ask! I’m happy to help any way I can!

What tips and tricks to you use to travel on a budget? Share in the comments!

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• 7 Amazing Travel Hacks For Visiting Paris On A Budget Vacation In 2024

You do not want to spend too many days in Paris, it is too much money. Or so we have heard. The best part about Paris is that it is so rich in its architecture and heritage that you need not shell out many bucks for a gala time in the City of Lights. So, is it time to traverse the land of fashion, happening vibes and delicious cuisine with your friends and family? We assure you, following these 7 amazing tips will get you on a hassle free holiday to Paris on a budget .

Paris On A Budget: 7 Best Travel Tips

If you wish to have a smooth holiday in Paris with your loved ones, this guide about the best travel tips will surely help you on your way. Scroll down to know what all you should keep in mind!

• Getting There
• Getting Around
• Entertainment

France’s gourmet delights and quaint interiors of the restaurants attract a lot of tourists. But there are ways to get a glimpse of Paris’s world-famous food culture while still keeping your pockets heavy.

• Skip the restaurants or bistros, especially for breakfast. Savor the golden croissants and chocolate-filled pastries with a cup of coffee at the local boulangerie (bakery).
• Opt for the Parisian food carts with meals priced as low as €5.
• ‘Take-away’ options are cheaper than ‘have-it-here’.
• Latin Quarter offers many fixed 3-course menus for the tourists that are much cheaper than standard 3-course meals.
• Brunch and dinners are much expensive than lunch menus. Often, the same meal you had at lunch is offered at twice the price for dinner.
• Bars and restaurants in Butte aux Cailles offer dishes from €7-€10 and glasses of wine for €4.
• You can purchase cheap and fresh groceries at outdoor food markets, and cheaply priced boxed wines from local supermarkets. Pack a picnic and have it anywhere you find perfect for the meal.

Suggested Read: What To Do In 9 Days In Switzerland, Paris, And Amsterdam: The Best Way Of Touring Europe

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To enjoy the best stay in Paris, you need to ensure that it doesn’t hurt your pocket. Yes! Cheap lodging is possible. Take refuge in the house of locals with couchsurfing , swap houses , share a room with other tourists in a hostel , or live in Halle Pajol – a former warehouse – that offers dorms as well as private rooms.

Suggested Read: 10 Cheapest Cities In Europe Where Backpackers Can Travel On A Budget!

3. Getting There

The biggest cost, however, is usually the cost involved in getting there. But fret not, for these tips will help save on the cost of airline tickets.

• Tickets are cheaper during November – March and costliest during August.
• Mid-week flights are much cheaper than weekend flights. So book a flight on and for Tuesday – Thursday.
• Booking tickets 3 – 4 months in advance can reduce the flight cost by up to 50%.

Suggested Read: 10 Incredible Ways To Ring In New Year In Paris To Welcome New Year

4. Getting Around

To enjoy the numerous picturesque sights and boutique monuments, you will have to travel a fair bit. Needless to say, all this travel is going to add on to your trip cost. But hey! We have just the right hacks to ensure that the same doesn’t burden your pockets while you’re on your holiday in Paris on a budget .

• Exploring the city on foot, especially at night is obviously a budget choice. Paris offers 5 daily DiscoverWalks walking tours: Paris Landmarks, Notre Dame , Montmartre, Latin Quarter, and Marais.
• But it is indeed the Paris Rando Velo’s free bicycle tours every Friday evening and every third Sunday morning that is most famous amongst the tourists.
• A €10 boat ride on Bateaux Mouche gives a different perspective of the city landmarks and great pics too.
• Rent out Velib bikes with €1.7 daily and/or €8 weekly passes. To avoid additional charges, use the bike for 25 minutes at a stretch, put it back at a Velib station, and take it again after 5 minutes for further journey.
• Though Hop-On-Hop-Off Bus sightseeing is available, but it is cheaper to take the backseat of a regular bus and take pictures.
• A one-day €7 Mobilis travel card offers unlimited metro rides in Central Paris that is the tourist hub of the city.

Suggested Read: 10 Cheapest Cities In Asia For The Shoestring Budget Travelers

And of course, one visits Paris for its many grand museums and monuments, beautiful architecture, and the lush gardens. With the following city hacks, you can be sure to explore the city while saving a lot of bucks.

• On first Sunday of every month, one can visit the permanent collections in national museums, such as the Musée de Cluny and Musée Carnavalet, for free.
• The most famous Louvre can be visited for free during November – March or you can simply peep in through the glass windows on any night for a free view.
• For EU citizens aged 18 – 25, entry to these museums is free on all days. Students, up to 18 years of age, from across the globe can visit the museums for free on any day. Others can buy a cheap Paris museum pass that covers entry fee to most of the museums.
• Famous gardens, such as the Garden of the Tuileries, the Luxembourg garden, the Place des Vosges, and Belleville Garden, can be visited free of cost.
• Visit to Versailles Garden is free. A nominal fee is charged if you wish to visit the castle.
• The Sacré-Coeur church is another famous monument that charges no fee for visits.
• Avoid the queue and excess charges for going to the top of Eiffel Tower . Instead, have a view of the Eiffel Tower and the city from the top of Arc de Triompie for a meagre fee of €8. An alternate for Arc de Triompie is the Montparnasse Tower.

Suggested Read: How To Spend 2 Days In Paris: A Stopover Guide!

Finding souvenirs unique to Paris need not be costly. These killer tips will ensure just that. So, while you’re out and about on your next holiday to this mesmerizing fashion capital, make sure you visit the following places to shop the best products to take back home for your loved ones. Your Paris on a budget travel can be even more happening as you’ll have plenty of stories to tell everyone!

• Visit Marché aux puces de la porte de Montreuil, 59 Rivoli, or Vanves for art, furniture and vintage trinkets.
• Flea markets on Saturdays, Sundays, and Mondays are best to purchase cheap books, antiques, and other souvenirs.

7. Entertainment

Oh and why not find time to enjoy some music, dance, nightlife, and other entertainment. And of course, we know the deal. It has to be in budget, right? So here are quick tips on budget entertainment activities to do in Paris.

• Enjoy free dancing on old French music on the Left Bank on Sundays. From little kids to old couples, you will find Parisians of all ages dancing their hearts out on the classic music.
• From solo violinists to the swing bands, musicians of all hues and genres can be found performing at the Paris Metro Stations.
• Visit the chic 10 Bar for its jukebox and €3 drinks.
• Enjoy salsa, swing, tango, and traditional French folk dances at Quai Saint-Bernard for the midnight entertainment.
• At Place Du Tertre, artists gather with their easels. You can see them paint live some amazing art pieces and get art tips; all this for free.

Further Read: 40 Most Romantic International Honeymoon Destinations On Your Budget

So is budget still a constraint? We hope not! Get your bags packed and experience Paris like never before with the help of this guide. While you plan your holiday to Paris , apply these cost-cutting hacks, and let us know how effective they were. Make sure you pack a few extra clothes in case you change your mind!

Disclaimer:  TravelTriangle claims no credit for images featured on our blog site unless otherwise noted. All visual content is copyrighted to its respectful owners. We try to link back to original sources whenever possible. If you own the rights to any of the images, and do not wish them to appear on TravelTriangle, please contact us and they will be promptly removed. We believe in providing proper attribution to the original author, artist or photographer.

Please Note:  Any information published by TravelTriangle in any form of content is not intended to be a substitute for any kind of medical advice, and one must not take any action before consulting a professional medical expert of their own choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I eat in Paris on a budget?

You should set aside a fixed Paris food budget to save you from spending reckless money on food. Most restaurants in Paris have a fixed menu where you will get two or three-course menu lunch under 1020 Euros. As far as breakfast or dinner is concerned, you could buy ingredients like bread, cheese, salami, etc and fix yourself a sandwich. It would still come out cheaper than most of the options.

Is Paris expensive to visit?

Yes, Paris is one of the most expensive places to visit in the world but if you plan to visit here during off-season, then you may be able to save significantly on your Paris trip. Book your tickets 3-4 months in advance for Tuesday or Thursday. Palan your trip in the month of November to March.

What can you do in Paris for cheap?

You could visit a few museums in Paris that have no entry ticket. take a free sightseeing tour around the city on your own. Enjoy a picnic in the park. You could enjoy drinks during happy hours. Enjoy a matinee show for less than 10 Euros.

Is Paris safe at night?

Yes, Paris is much alive even at night just like Mumbai never sleeps. However, some places are much safer than others like Le Marais, the Latin Quarter, the Louvre area where it is always bustling with the tourist crowd. Avoid going to secluded areas in the dark alone for fear of mugging.

What is a typical breakfast in Paris?

A croissant and coffee are the typical breakfast in Paris. People also enjoy having crepes. You could also have cereals, yogurt, or juices if you like.

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70 Travel Hacks That Will Change Your Travel Game Forever

With 57 countries under my belt and more than a decade of traveling regularly, I think it’s safe to say that I’m an expert in the field. I’ve made every mistake you could imagine—missed flights, lost baggage, exploding hair irons—but with each disastrous experience, I’ve grown a little bit wiser, and a LOT savvier when it comes to traveling like a seasoned pro.

These travel hacks for flying, packing, saving money, getting hotel upgrades and more are the secrets I swear by. I hope they’ll help make your next trip pleasurable, memorable, and stress-free.

70 Travel Hacks That Will Blow Your Mind

1. use my “contact lens case” hack for makeup and skincare products ..

This is one of my best space saving packing hacks. People tend to take up unnecessary room in their toiletry bags by bringing full-sized products.

Here’s the trick: put your foundation, moisturizer, eye cream , and any other liquid products into contact lens cases. Every inch counts!

2. Be strategic in your seat selection when booking a flight.  

There’s nothing worse than getting stuck in a seat that doesn’t recline, or ending up in a row next to the lavatory with people hovering over you for the entire flight. I avoid these kind of mishaps by checking SeatGuru before I choose my seat on flights.

Occasionally, I’ll even choose a flight based on the type of plane that SeatGuru tells me I’ll be flying on. The website and app shows you photos of the plane’s interior so you’ll know in advance whether you’re booking an outdated 747, or a brand spanking new plane.

Plus, it gives you warnings about seats that have potential issues, like limited recline or a misaligned window.

3. Pack your own DIY amenity kit for long-haul flights.

I loooove the amenity kits that you get when you fly First or Business, but since I don’t always have that luxury, I decided to start making my own. My “DIY kit” stays in my carry-on bag at all times, and includes a toothbrush and toothpaste, deodorant, sheet masks, moisturizer, hand cream, eye masks , lip balm, and socks.

4. Avoid cankles by wearing compression socks.

They’re basically Spanx for your calves and feet, because feeling swollen after a long-haul flight is the WORST.

5. Consider choosing an “alternate destination” when you search.

If the city you’re flying in or out of isn’t a main hub, consider flying into a bigger city and connecting or finding a flight (or other mode of transportation) out of that city.

Not only will you save money, but you have the potential to earn more mileage points.

6. Download the Google Translate app to help with language barriers.

You can use it to take photos of text in another language, and it will translate the words in real time. (I have a separate blog post featuring the best travel apps for savvy jetsetters , which you should check out as well!)

7. Use packing cubes.

Another space saving packing hack that I swear by? Packing cubes! I truthfully thought these were a scam until I tried them out for myself.

They not only compress your items to give you additional space, but they also help keep you organized—I use a small one for socks and underwear, a medium-sized one for tops, another medium-sized one for comfortable walking shoes and sneakers , and a large one for jeans , pants, and dresses.

8. Look out for price errors.

Often times, there will be glitches on airline or third party sites that offer a ridiculous low fare. Sign up to these sites to keep an eye on them. But know that you will have to act quick, as these companies will typically fix the fare as soon as they catch it. Here are some great resources to keep an eye on for low fare deals.

• Scott’s Cheap Flights (or Jack’s Flight Club for UK-based people)
• The Flight Deal
• Secret Flying (if you’re based out of Europe)
• Holiday Pirates
• Airfarewatchdog.com 
• FlyerTalk Mileage Run (discussion board)

* Bonus Tip: Fill your social media with these sleuths by following them on Instagram and Twitter!

9. Take advantage of generous credit card offers.

The greatest travel hack of all time? Credit cards and points. Open up a credit card that has a sign-up bonus (assuming you can be responsible enough to pay your bills!), and transfer the points to an airline for a pricey international flight.

Check out my full step-by-step guide to using points and miles for free travel if you haven’t already!

10. Be strategic with flight cancellations.

If you book a nonrefundable ticket and your plans change or you know you won’t be traveling on that flight—do not cancel the ticket until the last possible moment.

Or…just don’t show up. Here’s why: in the rare case that there’s a flight cancellation or schedule change, your nonrefundable ticket could entitle you to a credit or refund. Had you cancelled the ticket, you wouldn’t be entitled to anything.

11. Learn how to avoid long airport security lines.

TSA-precheck, Global Traveler, and Clear have been an absolute gamechanger for me, and if you travel more than a few times a year, they are absolutely something worth investing in. If you’re not familiar:

• TSA Precheck enables you to use a separate line for domestic (US) flights, and you won’t be required to take off your shoes or take out your laptop.
• Global Traveler is for international flights and (as far as I know) is for the US only. When you’re returning to the US, you use a machine that scans your passport rather than having to wait in line at customs.
• Clear lets you scan your fingertips at security and then get escorted to the front of line at airports where it is offered.

12. Take a hydration multiplier for long flights.

While everyone will tell you to “drink as much water as possible” and “try to stay hydrated” on a long-haul flights, the reality is that if you’re drinking a liter of water on a plane, you’re going to find yourself getting up to go to the bathroom repeatedly.

My hack for this is to use Liquid IV. It’s a “hydration multiplier” that hydrates you 2-3 times faster than water alone. You pour the little packet of powder into your water bottle, shake it up, and then drink.

It tastes pretty similar to Gatorade (the lemon/lime is my preferred flavor) and will keep you hydrated without sending you to use the restroom every 30 seconds.

13. Keep track of itinerary ideas in Google Docs.

I use Google Docs for all of my itineraries—especially when I’m planning a girls trip and there are multiple people involved. I’ll share the link with everyone I’m traveling with to make it more collaborative. It’s also where I keep a running list of recommendations from people for the destination that I’m visiting.

14. Challenge yourself not to check a bag.

Avoid lost baggage nightmares by packing carry-on only for trips under a week. In need of luggage that actually fits a lot of stuff? Here’s a list of the best carry-on bags that help save space with packing.

15. Order a “special meal” in advance of a long-haul flight.

Most major airlines will offer the option to order a special meal when you book your flight—these include vegetarian, gluten-free, dairy-free, kosher, vegan, low fat, and sometimes even low sodium options.

People who place orders for “special meals” will always get served first, so if you’re hoping to catch some z’s on the flight, you’ll have more time to sleep while everyone else is waiting for their food to arrive.

16. Save local currency from the country you’re visiting as a souvenir.

My husband and I started doing this many years ago, and now we have what we jokingly call a “world bank” at home. It’s a cool alternative to buying a dumb keychain or t-shirt you’ll never wear.

17. Create a framed collage of foreign currency from your trips after you get home.

I often find foreign currency to be incredibly beautiful. We’ve taken some of the best-looking bills from various places we’ve visited, and framed them.

18. Do the same with hotel room keys, airline tickets, and baggage tags.

You can use a place like Framebridge to arrange and frame them for you—they’ll even send you a pre-paid envelope to mail in your items.

19. Talk to taxi drivers.

Often, a simple taxi ride from the airport to your hotel will turn into an impromptu city tour if you ask the right questions.

20. Build your itinerary using Go ogle Maps Trip Planner.

This might be the greatest travel hack of all time. Did you know that there’s a FREE tool within Google Maps that you can use to create an entire itinerary for your next trip? It’s called Google Maps Trip Planner and it’s incredible.  

21. Don’t exchange money at the airport.

Wait and go to an ATM near your hotel for better exchange rates.

22. Take advantage of layovers as often as possible.

Sometimes, I’ll even choose flights with 12+ hour layovers as a way to see another city for a day.

23. Never miss another photo opp.

Take photos in “burst” mode so you don’t need to worry about missing the shot.

24. Carry a photocopy of your passport in your wallet.

Just in case.

25. Speaking of wallets… invest in a good travel wallet.

Trying to keep track of boarding passes, passport photocopies, foreign currency, and receipts can get a bit messy if you’re trying to stuff everything into your regular, everyday wallet.

The best way to stay organized while you’re heading out of town is to use an inexpensive but chic travel wallet that has additional compartments for travel-related items. 

26. Use a travel agent or tour operator for special trips or multi-city itineraries.

They can often get you better rates and preferential treatment at hotels.

27. Become a points and miles pro.

I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again—I’ve learned everything I know about points, miles, and travel hacks from my friend Brian Kelly, aka The Points Guy . Browse through his site for all the secrets.

28. Easily share photos with friends/family.

Start a shared album with your the people you’re traveling with at the beginning of a trip, so you’re able to easily exchange photos.

29. Get the experience of a luxury hotel without staying at one.

Dying to stay at a fancy hotel but can’t afford the nightly rate? Pop in to the lobby bar for drinks instead.

30. Plan your trip during “shoulder season” to take advantage of better hotel rates and less crowds.

Shoulder season = the period between high and low season, when the weather is still great but the destination is less busy. In places like Positano , Santorini , and Mykonos for example, shoulder season is generally April through the middle of June, and September through October.

31. Avoid jetlag by getting onto the local time zone as soon as you board the plane.

If it’s technically morning in the destination you’re going to when you board the plane, do NOT go to sleep—even if it’s midnight where you’re leaving from. If you work on adjusting to the time zone while on the flight, you’ll have a better chance of battling jet lag when you arrive.

32. Hire a local guide during the first day of your trip in a foreign city.

It’ll help you get the lay of the land. Then ask your guide for non-touristy recommendations to hit up during the rest of your trip. Also: if you’re traveling with a big group, DEFINITELY hire a guide. It takes the pressure off of one person being put in charge of the itinerary.

One of the best things I’ve ever done was hire a guide for my five-day trip to Tokyo since I wanted to see as many things as I could in a short period of time.

33. Use a sheet mask on long flights to replenish the moisture back into your skin.

I love using these sheet masks on the plane. Instead of looking haggard when you land, your skin looks super glowy and fresh.

34. Hire a passport/visa expediting service if you’re in a pinch.

I used a company called “It’s Easy” to renew my passport when I was super tight on time, and they were able to get it to me within a few days.

35. Keep a “packing checklist” in your phone.

You can refer back to it every time you’re heading out of town. I have an example of my travel packing checklist here .

36. Always keep your boarding pass.

I usually keep mine until I see that my miles have posted on my frequent flyer account—if you end up having to claim missing miles from your airline, you’ll need to have your ticket number and confirmation number as a reference. Which leads me to my next point…

37. Create a frequent flyer account on every airline you travel with.

There’s no reason not to. If you don’t you’ll be missing out on valuable miles that could potentially be put toward your next trip. I personally have FF account with: American, Delta, JetBlue, United, Cathay Pacific/Asia Miles, British Airways/Avios.

38. Keep your iPhone photos organized.

Save all of your favorite trip photos into an album in iPhoto so that you can find them quickly.

39. Turn your travel photos into cool animations using free apps.

One of my favorite ways to jazz up my photos following a trip is by using apps like KiraKira and Enlight Pixeloop. (For example, I have a little tutorial that shows you how to add falling snow to your photos in 30 seconds.)

40. Use a pants hanger to ensure blinds stay closed over night.

There’s nothing worse than waking up at the crack of dawn on vacation because of a small gap in the hotel drapes. I avoid this by using a hanger with trouser clips to secure the two window shades together.

41. To find cheap flights, consider looking beyond the obvious sites like Kayak and Expedia.

If you set the tab or filter to “everywhere” or “anywhere” and are flexible with your dates and travel time, you can find really inexpensive flights and even earn extra miles if you fly an extra leg.

A few of the best “deals” sites are:

• Sky Scanner

42. Always ask for an upgrade.

Unless you’re on an unlimited budget or celebrating a special occasion, never book the best room at a hotel—but always ask for an upgrade. I did this on a recent trip to Maui , as well as in the Maldives and St Barths , and totally lucked out!

Make sure to join the hotel’s loyalty program before arriving (they’re free), since they usually honor those requests for members as long as a higher room category is available.

43. Sometimes, the budget airlines have even cheaper flights on their sites.

Also, if you sign up for their newsletter and loyalty clubs, you get added perks and insider info. A few that comes to mind are Norwegian, Frontier, Southwest, and Spirit.

44. Be a “country counter.”

Download the “Been” app to keep track of the countries and states you’ve visited.

45. Get a more authentic “local” experience with your accommodation.

Using sites like Air BnB, VRBO, Booking and others gives you the opportunity to live more locally and at a significantly discounted rate. In fact, sometimes the house share experience is more personalized and luxurious.

46. Book a private room at a hostel to save money.

If hostels are an option (check HostelWorld.com), you can book private rooms for a really cheap rate. This is a great way to 1) save money 2) meet new people (perhaps people you could room with in another country on future trips.)

47. Always have a back-up power source.

Charge an external battery before you travel, and have it with you on the plane in case the seats don’t have outlets.

48. Compare flight prices using Airfare Matrix.

AirFare Matrix is something travel agents use. It is a Google tool and allows you to do some great price comparison without the third party interjection (that can sometimes cause you to pay more if you’re not searching in an incognito browser).

You can’t book directly from the site, but can use the codes as a source to get the cheapest price when you call an agent, or even the airline.

49. Try toggling to a different “home” country when searching for flights to get cheaper rates.

If you’re looking to fly a specific airline, set your country (usually in the top right hand corner or in the website’s footer) to one that has a good FX rate (of the countries available, of course).

This will allow you to view and purchase the flights in another currency, and potentially save big! It will take some time and some trial and error, but if you have the time, it’s worth it!

50. Mark your bag fragile.

It’ll be handled properly and make it to the top of the pile, ensuring your luggage comes out in the first batch!

51. Before you pay for an upgraded cabin, see if the flight is full.

If not, put yourself on the upgrade list as soon as you can. Also, offering to get bumped from a flight and wait for the next flight could give you leverage to negotiate a better seat (and maybe even money or points).

52. Use FourSquare for Wifi.

You can find wifi passwords on FourSquare for restaurants, cafes and other places (just be careful, obviously, as not all of these are secure.)

53. Turn on “Private Browser” when searching for flights. 

Prices do, in fact, fluctuate based on the cookies in your web browser and how many searches you’ve performed for a specific destination. Which is why searching for flights in a private browser (also known as “incognito mode”) is an absolute must.

If you’re using Google Chrome, you can enable Incognito mode by hitting Command + SHIFT + N.

If you’re using Firefox or IE, you can enable a private browser by hitting COMMAND + SHIFT + P.

54. Bring an oversize scarf on the plane that doubles as a blanket.

Then wear it as a chic cape during your trip.

55. Save on parking by pairing up with a local.

Garage Pointer is a website that connects you with people who own parking spaces and are willing to rent them (temporarily) to visitors. As of now Garage Pointer is only available in the U.S.

56. Rent a car…from a local.

Ready for the best car travel hack? Look into whether or not Turo is available in your destination. The app and website connects you with people who own cars and are willing to rent them out for a fee that is (usually) much less than traditional car rental.

57. Overwhelmed with what to pack? There’s an app for that.

PackPoint helps you determine what to pack based on where you are going and the length of your trip. It checks the weather in your upcoming destination and then provides a detailed packing list for you. (I would also recommend using my “what to wear” guide if you’re packing for trip to Europe in the winter .)

58. Use a service to ship your clothes ahead of your trip.

Sure, this might not be for everyone, but did you know there was a service that stores, packs, ships and cleans your clothes prior to trips? It’s a company called DUFL . While it’s definitely targeted to a very specific market, DUFL is an incredible concept.

You send them a capsule wardrobe (consisting of clothes you need for every trip, like business travel), and they’ll store the clothes in a “virtual closet,” which you can access through the app prior to your departure. They then send the clothes to your hotel ahead of your arrival, and collect them to dry clean and store when you leave.

59. Use FlightAware to track your flights.

The website and app allows you to track your flight (or the flights of loved ones) in real time. It’ll also keep you up to date on important info, like whether the incoming flight is delayed, or if the flight had to be rerouted for any reason.

60. Invest in a good adapter/plug converter.

I like this one because it works in all countries, and also has USB ports.

61. Book tours and experiences through AirBnB.

Did you know that Airbnb can be a great resource for things other than accommodations? Over the past few years, the company has expanded to include incredible local experiences and tours.

62. Wear a travel outfit that looks super chic—but it secretly comfortable.

I have an entire blog post dedicated to this (linked above!) but in a nutshell, I’m a big fan of looking put together when I travel. However, I also wouldn’t be caught dead wearing jeans on a long flight.

There are a few little tricks I use to turn otherwise sloppy outfits into something that you’d be confident walking into a luxury hotel wearing.

The most important thing? A lightweight fringed scarf (which doubles as a blanket mid-flight) and a leather or denim jacket. 

63. Invest in a great pair of noise-cancelling headphones.

We’ve all been stuck next to a screaming child or chronic sniffler on long flights, and the experience can truly get your trip started off on the wrong foot.

I truly can not tell you how much of a game-changer noise-cancelling headphones are. While everyone else around you is having a meltdown over not being able to sleep or concentrate, you’ll be in your own little zen world.

Pro tip : if you don’t want to spring for the fanciest new technology, buy older or discontinued models of Bose headphones on Amazon for a fraction of the price for latest models.

64. Leverage special occasions for perks.

Celebrating a big anniversary or planning a trip for your honeymoon ? Be sure to let the hotel know in advance. When my husband and I went to Thailand and the Maldives for our honeymoon, we mentioned it to each property that we booked, and ended up with upgrades, bottles of champagne sent to the room, and other extra special perks from hotel staff.

65. Use your h otel’s shower cap to protect your toiletries from exploding.

Nervous about your liquids exploding in your toiletry bag on the flight home? Wrap them in the shower cap provided to you in the room. And if you don’t have a shower cap: use the plastic liner that comes with your ice bucket. 

66. Download the Revolut app.

The popular European banking app recently launched in the U.S., and it allows users to exchange currencies from 55,000+ surcharge-free ATMs nationwide. 

67. Seek itinerary inspiration through social media.

Use Instagram to inspire your itinerary. Browse through hashtags and geotags to see where people took gorgeous photos—and then go to those places! Alternatively, you can google things like “ The Best Instagram Spots in NYC ” or “ The Most Instagrammable Places in London ” for fun ideas.

68. Use AirHelp to get compensated for flight delays or cancelled flights.

We’ve all been there: you miss a connection because of a delayed flight, or your flight get inexplicably cancelled, and you know that the airline has to owe you some kind of compensation.

The problem is that actually getting what you’re owed can be a logistical nightmare that involves long wait times, endless phone calls, and unanswered emails. AirHelp essentially plays the middleman by acting on your behalf.

They do charge a fee (which is a percentage of what you’re ultimately compensated) but as someone who has used the service successfully, I can say that it is VERY much worth saving you the headache.

Plus, Airhelp knows exactly what you’re entitled to based on their expertise, so you’ll often end up getting more than you would have received on your own.

69. Do your souvenir research ahead of a trip.

One thing I always do before I travel is a bit of research about the most unique gifts and souvenirs to buy in the destination I’m heading to. Looking this up ahead of time might top you off to some really cool new boutiques, and it will also guarantee that you don’t end up at an airport gift shop wasting your money on a meaningless memento.

For example, this list of the best things to buy in Paris contains a ton of “hidden gems” within the city you might never have known about otherwise. There’s also something extremely satisfying about going on the hunt for a specific unique item—and then finding it! 

70. Keep a note in your phone filled with travel quotes .

For those times that you desperately want to post an Instagram photo, but you’re at a loss for a caption.

Did you find this list helpful? Are there any travel hacks you love that I didn’t include? Drop them in the comments below!

Thank you to nicole cueto aka @thecubancarrie for her contributions to this piece.

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If you’re traveling with an infant/toddler; bookmark, screenshot AND print the rules for taking things like breastmilk/formula/snacks through security as well as the policy about early boarding for families. It helps to be prepared for any hiccups. And even if you just fly once or twice a year with a child, get TSA Precheck. Your child under 12 can go through the line with you, which makes things SO much faster.

Lindsay Silberman

this is SUCH a good tip (and one i would never have thought of!) thanks for sharing!

I always get a seat on the plane forward of the wings. Any turbulence the plane encounters dieting the flight is less bumpy in the front half.

Charles Loes

these hacks help me a lot thanks for such guidance.

I always get a seat on the plane forward of the wings. Any turbulence the plane encounters during the flight is less bumpy in the front half.

Helen Gaskin

Really a complete guide has never seen such stuff there. I am all the way from Pinterest and your pin is best to attract anyone. And guide too.

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• Where Bowie and Jagger Partied: Now a Dazzling One Key Hotel in Paris

Les Bains Paris was a spa for Proust and a nightclub for Bowie and Jagger. Now, it might be the city's hippest design hotel — recently awarded one of Paris' first MICHELIN Keys.

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In 2024, the MICHELIN Guide is announcing the first ever MICHELIN Keys — a brand new distinction that recognizes the most outstanding hotels across the world. Les Bains is a One Key hotel in Paris. Find our selection team’s official take, here . And below, our editorial team explores the dazzling history of what was once a spa, then an infamous nightclub, and finally a 21st-century design hotel.

There’s an iconic scene in the uber-cool 1964 Jean-Luc Godard film Band à part (known in English as Band of Outsiders) where the three main characters run through the Louvre, dodging museum guards and passing by artwork that spans millennia. It is, in a sense, not too dissimilar from how a guest might experience Les Bains Paris, an impossibly hip hotel with a maverick (and manic) history that stretches across three different centuries. Since the late 1800s, the legendary Les Bains has drawn both le tout Paris and the crème de la crème of Hollywood. It has played host to the likes of Bowie, Jagger, and Warhol, and been a canvas for young Philippe Starck’s far-out décor. It’s been both a venue for pop-up shows by underground street artists and a place where the early Impressionists came to unwind. It has quite a legacy, and that’s all before it became one of the world’s most exciting hotels. Its current owner, movie producer and director Jean-Pierre Marois, has a real interest in making sure it stays true to its conception: he’s the son of the man who owned it during its glory years. We spoke with Marois, who helped helped us trace the three-step saga that led to the Les Bains of today.

• The Spa Era
• Les Bains Guerbois
• The Final Invention: Les Bains Hotel

The Early Days: Les Bains Guerbois — 1885 The adventure begins at the end of the 19th century. François Auguste Guerbois opens Café Guerbois, known today as the famous meeting place of the earliest Impressionists. Imagine Zola, Degas, Renoir, Sisley and Cézanne — known as the Batignolles Group — gathered around Monet, engaged in healthy artistic debate on a café terrace. This is not Les Bains. It is, however, the springboard from which Mr. Guerbois embarks on another project: creating the most beautiful spa in the capital. Choosing the heart of Paris’s 3rd arrondissement, the Marais district, Guerbois enlists architect Eugène Ewald to erect a sumptuous stone building. He fills it with hot baths and success is instant: Les Bains Guerbois becomes a Parisian hotspot. Among the misty hot baths’ regulars are men like Proust, the brilliant Batignolles Group, and the rest of the cream of the Belle Époque. In its next iteration, the prestige of the clientele would not decline.

The Glory Days: Les Bains Douches — 1978 Here begins Les Bains’ second life, with the same exceptional success. In the 1970s, Jean-Pierre Marois’s father buys the building from the Guerbois family and rents out it out, watching as his tenants transform the dated space into a concert hall coupled with a restaurant and nightclub. During the heyday of Studio 54 in New York, Les Bains Douches becomes Paris’ own version, representing a revolution in Parisian nightlife. “Music, punk especially, was the initial gateway to that edgier world,” says Jean-Pierre Marois, who attended concerts there from the age of 15. “That’s what Les Bains was offering. It was more biting, more sulfurous, more radical than anything I had experienced.” “It taught me a thing or two,” he recalls with a laugh.

Between a private concert by Prince and a dinner with the manager of the Sex Pistols, Marois meets all of his heroes: the Rolling Stones, Joy Division, Jack Nicholson. Meanwhile, fashion icons like Thierry Mugler, John Galliano and Jean Paul Gaultier might share a table in the back as other celebrities float across Philippe Starck’s checkerboard dance floor. Throughout the years, the nightclub draws an embarrassment of A-List names: the aforementioned Warhol and Bowie, plus Catherine Deneuve, Robert De Niro, Sean Penn, Johnny Depp, Kate Moss, Karl Lagerfeld, and on and on… “The place was both very select and devoted to diversity,” notes Marois. “It was very eclectic. The bouncer, Marie-Line, selected the clientele like a painter on his palette.” Models and media personalities, hip-hop dancers and unknowns — picked for their spirit and style — would weave in and out of the crowd.

The Final Invention: Les Bains Hotel By the early 2000s, the club was past its heyday and entering a serious decline. Indeed, the very structure of the building was under threat, and there was no choice but to close and await the rescue of a major restoration. In an effort to save the storied club and restaurant, and to preserve the history of the building — in his family now for decades — Jean-Pierre Marois decides to take over. And having already helped turn a little spot in the 11th arrondissement into the internationally praised Gabriel Hotel, he isn’t entirely new to the world of hospitality. He endeavors to turn Les Bains Douches into Les Bains Paris, today’s bohemian, baroque, otherworldly luxury boutique hotel. Les Bains, with all its history, was “truly a 20th century institution,” explains Marois. “The challenge here was to bring Les Bains into the 21st century.” Marois also knew that he didn’t want to dishonor the trailblazing nature of Les Bains by turning it into a museum piece or making it too mainstream, so he set about launching an architectural competition to reshape the property, deciding in the end that the best proposal is the boldest one. “I realized at that time the place truly needed a metamorphosis. Only in total freedom could we reinvent it.”

As he would when making a movie, Marois begins his project by surrounding himself with top-tier talent: Vincent Bastie (with some 80 Parisian hotel renovations to his credit) for the architecture. Tristan Auer (Le Crillon, Hôtel du Louvre) and Denis Montel for the interior design. Alexander Kella, from Chateau Marmont, to work on branding, along with an illustrious Japanese florist and a celebrated Michelin-starred chef. Together, they worked to make the hotel tell the kind of sensational story that inspires modern travelers to visit again and again. While the original hall and Chinese salon have been preserved, the other spaces have all been transformed, each one offering a unique identity, atmosphere and experience. Audacious and spectacular, the Roxo restaurant is halfway between a typical Roaring Twenties lounge and a futuristic vortex, an unlikely combination made possible by the contemporary minimalist wisdom binding it all together. Under the remarkable sculpted ceiling, Brazilian chef Bruno Grossi presides over an eclectic menu. Head to the adjacent bar and you’ll find a bustling social scene and concoctions by the best mixologist in France. The rooms and suites, meanwhile, offer a completely different atmosphere — they’re the 1950s both revived and cut down to the essentials, bright and spacious, distinguished by geometric lines and sparkles of acid colors.

If the era of Les Bains Guerbois and Les Bains Douches seems far away, nods to the site’s history abound. Starck’s memorable dance floor now hosts the restaurant. Rooms are equipped with hammams that evoke the place’s bathhouse roots and, across the street, a hybrid boutique called Les Bains Guerbois sells a collection of body care products and perfumes. The old spa reservoir, a 15-meter-high tower, now contains a private dining room, one of the owner’s favorite nooks and one that summons the 19th-century romanticism of the old Les Bains. “A Jules Vernes-style haven,” says Marois. The festive heart of the place remains, too: there are four to five concerts each week. A music festival, along with regular exhibitions and events, rekindles the flame of its artistic legacy and its illustrious clientele. It’s a place for people “who wish to invigorate their senses,” sums up Jean-Pierre Marois. And with its history set in three centuries, yes, it’s perhaps also a little for those who feel nostalgic for the good old days. Or as it says on a wall at the legendary Les Bains Paris, in reference to the works of Marcel Proust, “le temps perdu retrouvé.” Literally: lost time regained. Book Les Bains with The MICHELIN Guide →

Top image: Les Bains — Paris, France

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H aving expanded the hotel brand to include residences and private jets, the Four Seasons is now looking to conquer the seas with its new yacht collection. Last week, Four Seasons Yachts unveiled renderings of its first vessel —built in collaboration with Marc-Henry Cruise Holdings Ltd and the Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri—which is set to launch in 2026. The first voyages will take passengers throughout the Caribbean and will soon expand to destinations along the Mediterranean. The 14-deck vessel (inspired by Aristotle Onassis’ Christina O ) will feature 95 suites, a saltwater pool and al fresco dining.

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Tips For Family Trips

Start planning your dream trip today

How We Found Cheap Flights to Paris

Air Travel , France , Save Money / July 18, 2018 by Allison / 1 Comment This article may contain sponsored content or affiliate links.

Do you dream of traveling the world?

Me too! I grew up in a middle-class family in the wide-open spaces of Utah, and have pretty much lived here all my life. It's a fantastic place to live and travel, but for international travel, it isn't close to anywhere. For years, I assumed that taking my family of four to Europe was financially out of our reach.

Then I joined the family travel blogging community and saw how many families are making it happen. My sister took her family of six to France, England, Italy, Morocco, and China. They weren't working for an airline or travel hacking with millions of credit card points.

If they can do it, so can I.

Once you find an airfare you can afford, the rest of the vacation doesn't have to cost more than if you were traveling closer to home. So, finding affordable flights puts the world within our reach.

Five hundred dollars was our target fare. On my first search, I spotted a round-trip fare from Delta Airlines to Paris, France for $492 per person for two weeks during summer vacation. Right price, right dates, right destination. I called my husband at work, and we booked the flights an hour later. We returned from Paris a few weeks ago, and it was such a great trip! I'm so glad we were able to share that experience with our children.

Here's how I found our cheap flights to Paris, France.

Explore Map

Start with Google Flights at www.google.com/flights . The front page can be a good place to start your search, but if you really want to explore how far your dollar can take you, click the three lines in the top left corner and select “Explore Map.” You'll see your airport and a few suggested destinations with fares on the map.

Flexible Dates

Next, click in either date field and then select “Flexible dates.” Flexible dates is one of the best ways to find the price you want for a flight. This is tricky for us since it's hard for my kids and husband, who is a principal, to skip any school days. June is generally a flexible month for my family, so I selected two weeks in June. Google Flights will let you search about six months out.

Flexible Destinations

Here's where it gets fun. Google will allow you to see fares for an entire region or continent. Type in “Europe” to see all of Europe. Same with “South America” or “India.” You can see in the image that sub-regions like Southern Europe are also an option.

If there had been a better fare for London, Rome, Madrid, Copenhagen… or pretty much anywhere else in Europe, I'd be writing about that destination instead of Paris. When you're looking for deals, don't pick the destination first. Pick your price, and then go with the destination that matches it. You'll get an idea of what's a good price and what isn't when you check fares regularly.

Flexible Airports

Don't limit yourself to your home airport when shopping for flights. Though we live only 30 minutes from the Salt Lake International Airport, we drove eight hours each way to fly from Denver, Colorado. This saved us about $2,000.

Denver is a bigger hub than Salt Lake City, and fares were more than twice as much to fly from our home airport on the same dates. For my family of four, it was less expensive to drive to Denver than to fly – even with extra fuel, food, and parking expenses – and we love a road trip.

Repeating this process, here are some sample fares from Denver to various European cities for two weeks in November 2018. You can see that I could book round trip fares to London for less than $500 and to Paris for under $550 if the dates fit my schedule.

Fares might be even lower, depending on where you live. When I try other airports, I find that it would cost me more to fly from Salt Lake City or Las Vegas, but I could get fares closer to $400 if I can get to LAX in Los Angeles. That's just today's search. Tomorrow I might find a screaming deal from my home airport, so it pays to shop regularly and try different variables to catch those deals when they happen.

Start Early

Many frequent travelers browse airfares as a hobby. Start looking for deals well before your available dates and jump on them quickly. That fare may not be there tomorrow, or even in a few hours. I found our flights to Paris four months before our trip and booked them within two hours.

Don't go into debt for travel, because interest is too expensive! We pay off our credit cards in full each month, and we only travel where we can afford to go. We are saving money now for our family's next international travel adventure because we never know when the next great fare will land in our laps. We also purchase independent travel insurance when we book a big trip months in advance. Luck favors the prepared.

There are lots of great tricks and tools that can help you save on airfare, and Google Flights is the tool that got my family to Paris. To get other tips and examples for saving money on flights (like how we flew to Florida for $75 each), click the button to visit my Air Travel page .

Happy Travels!

Thanks for Sharing!

Reader Interactions

Keri|FlipFlopWeekend (@flipflopweekend)

July 25, 2018 at 6:22 am

Excellent tip! I ‘travel hack’ a bit, if you will, and have found Google Flights to be a great tool. So glad you got to experience Paris. It’s an amazing city! We hope to take our kids when they get a bit older.

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10 Clever Hotel Hacks That Will Save You Money

Posted: January 25, 2024 | Last updated: January 25, 2024

Booking on a Budget

With the cost of living continuing to climb, the times when you manage to save enough money to take a trip have become true moments of luxury. But just because you're treating yourself by staying at a nice hotel doesn't mean that you've completely lost the ability to save money by thinking outside of the box. 

You've got to be a bit creative and unconventional when it comes to saving money on a hotel room. Read on to discover some of the best hotel hacks used by seasoned travelers to help you save money the next time you book a room.

Book Your Stay Directly With The Hotel

Sometimes the best course of action when it comes to booking your next stay at a hotel is to reach out to the hotel directly. More often than you might think, by contacting a hotel directly you may be eligible for enticing discounts and upgrades that otherwise aren’t listed on the hotel’s site, through travel booking sites, or featured in their social media posts. 

You might end up happening upon the Holy Grail of hotel discounts if you experiment with booking during the hotel’s off-peak or shoulder season (such as booking a New York hotel during January or February). Sometimes, during off-season a hotel will have numerous rooms completely empty that they need to book for wildly agreeable price or offer an upgrade to a better room for less. From there, it’s the simple matter of being a calculated negotiator.

Book Your Hotel Room 15 Days Out

As often as 66% of the time, the hotel rooms were cheaper when booked 15 days out vs. four months out. Then, the disparity ended up being even more noticeable in 2021, where folks had an even better chance at scoring a deal through booking a hotel room last-minute. Those same rooms that NerdWallet’s team analyzed from 2021 ended up being cheaper 73% of the time when they were booked 15 days out vs. four months out.

Related:  Hostel vs. Hotel: Why Redditors Are Ditching Hostels and Airbnbs for Hotels

Stream Movies And TV Shows on Your Computer or Tablet

However, if your hotel is already offering up complimentary Wi-Fi, you can save yourself the typically steep prices of ordering a movie through the hotel by either using your hotel TV’s HDMI port  or by casting your favorite shows and movies to the TV from your computer, tablet, or smartphone by using Google Chromecast.

Related:   6 Best Streaming Services, According to Frugal Redditors

Order Room Service From The Kids Menu

The key to hacking this particularly clever, wallet-protecting travel tip is to order that meal off the kid's menu through your hotel's room service. What would originally be an alarmingly pricey brunch meal off the hotel's traditional adult menu, could end up being a similarly portioned kid's menu meal that doesn't leave your bank account noticeably down for the count. 

Take Advantage Of Promos And Loyalty Programs

What’s more is that if you already have an elite status with one hotel’s loyalty program, it could be as simple as you reaching out to another hotel to inquire about their loyalty program and potentially receive a matched status in the process. Numerous hotels are already a part of a larger chain, so staying at a hotel for a certain amount of nights is usually enough to get you through the door when it comes to gaining elite status across the entirety of the chain.

For more smart travel tips,   sign up for our free newsletters .

Take a Rain Check On The Hotel Bar

While there are plenty of hotel bars out there that can be dangerously inviting when it comes to their large TVs, cheery customers, catchy music, vaguely reasonable drink specials, etc., they can also be terrible money-holes that can add all kinds of unwanted, accumulating charges to the total cost of your stay. 

So, ask the concierge or use your phone to hunt down the nearest convenience and/or grocery store, where you can stock up on whatever kinds of drinks and snacks you might want to start your own in-room hotel bar. That way you also avoid the pricey temptation of the in-room mini bar.

Related:   42 Incredible Free Amenities at Hotels Across America

Use A Wi-Fi Travel Router

While, thankfully, plenty of hotels are ready to offer you complimentary Wi-Fi service, there are also just as many hotels that will charge you anywhere from $10-20 a day to use their Wi-Fi. Not only could you end up having to bear the brunt of daily Wi-Fi charges, but some hotels simply have terrible Wi-Fi. If you're going to rely on your hotel's Wi-Fi to help you get your work done while you stay there, then you might as well shell out the initially required money to invest in a nice Wi-Fi travel router . Plus, you'll have the added benefit of enhanced security while using your own router, as opposed to using a publicly configured Wi-Fi router. 

Write A Hotel Review In Exchange For A Discount

If you're someone who has generated a following on a site like Trip Advisor or Yelp, you might as well see what kinds of money-saving benefits all that hard work can serve to provide you during your travels. 

Simply reach out to the hotel manager to gauge their potential interest on providing discounts or upgrades in exchange for you providing exposure to their hotel through your platform. Granted, you'll want to make sure that you maintain full transparency with your followers by letting them know that you received a discount for writing up the review. 

Let Your Hotel Know About Any Special Occasions

We recommend being honest about any special occasions and not electing to take the inspiredly creative, though deceptive route of dreaming up an imaginary birthday situation. If you or anyone in your party has an upcoming birthday, anniversary, graduation, etc., you should go ahead and let the hotel staff know during your stay. Perfect strangers can surprise you with acts of kindness, and even if it's just a free slice of cake, that's still something to celebrate. 

Pass On The Hotel Laundry Service

While pleasantly convenient, your average hotel laundry service can end up running you quite the sizable tab. Instead of paying for your hotel's laundry service while you're out on the road, you can get crafty with your own travel-sized laundry detergent and your hotel bathroom's sink. Just make sure to give your newly cleaned clothing items enough time to dry out on the bathroom's shower rod. 

This article was originally published on Cheapism

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Google Flights says these are the top summer travel destinations of 2024

From london to new york and more, see the hottest summer 2024 flight destinations.

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Are you looking to book a vacation this summer? 

Google Flights has revealed the top searches on its platform by people in the U.S. who are looking to travel between June 1 and Aug. 31, 2024.

Check out the full list below and some popular recommendations for each.

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Top Summer 2024 destinations on Google Flights

The most searched travel destination for summer 2024 is just across the pond — London, England. (iStock / iStock)

Apparently, London is calling.

The most searched destination on Google Flights for summer 2024 is at the ready. 

Along with arts and culture aplenty, shop ‘til you drop in the land of Big Ben on Sloane Street.

This drag in the Knightsbridge neighborhood has the famed department store Harrods, along with the city’s flagship Chanel, Louis Vuitton, Giorgio Armani and more. 

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Post up at The Carlton Tower Jumeirah. Where you can also experience an afternoon tea and enjoy access to private Cadogan Gardens with tennis courts. 

The Olympics are going to be in Paris, France, this summer, which may be one of the reasons it has taken the No. 2 spot. (iStock / iStock)

This year, it’s Google Flights' number two most-searched-for destinations for summer 2024 is Paris, likely thanks to the Olympics taking place there in July and August. 

To get to the City of Light, you might want to consider booking on a smart-cost long-haul airline like French bee, which also offers flight and train packages if you want to say, "Cheers" in Champagne and clink Cabernet Sauvignon glasses in Bordeaux.

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In Paris, consider making your stomping grounds the InterContinental Paris Le Grand or Kimpton St Honoré Paris, both veritable jewels in this romantic city.

Tokyo has made the top three with a variety of cultural and historical locations that you will want to experience. (iStock / iStock)

Last year, the cherry blossom season in Japan reportedly brought in the highest number of travelers since the country re-opened its borders to travelers following the coronavirus pandemic. 

But Tokyo is just as exciting and vibrant in the summer, where you can visit Imperial Palace, the primary resident of the Emperor of Japan in tranquil park-like environs; scope out the Kanda Myojin, a shrine created some 1,270 years ago; partake in a traditional tea experience and much, much more. 

Call it a night at Hoshinoya Tokyo, which bills itself as a "high-rise ryokan." (A ryokan is a type of traditional Japanese Inn.)

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Enjoy the ancient architecture and stunning sights in ancient Rome and don't forget to leave room for some tasty pasta. (iStock / iStock)

In Rome, travelers may plan on stuffing themselves with spaghetti and gelato.

You’re also at one of the world’s cultural capitals. 

Here, you may want to visit the Palazzo Massimo (National Museum of Rome), which has great Classical sculptures and art, the Capitoline Museums atop Capitoline Hill and the Ara Pacis Museum, which is designed by the architect Richard Meier. 

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Consider reserving plenty of time for the Borghese Gallery, tucked inside the serene Borghese Gardens, which has some of the most spectacular surviving Bernini sculptures around, including his "Apollo and Daphne."

To up your cultural ante, head to the Doria Pamphilj Gallery, a private art collection in the ornate Palazzo Doria Pamphilj and the National Museum of the Palazzo di Venezia, a Renaissance-era palace with bucolic gardens and a museum. 

5. New York

There is so much to see in NYC — whether you are looking for something budget-friendly, or to enjoy afternoon tea at the Plaza Hotel. (Julienne Schaer / Fox News)

Whether you fly into LaGuardia Airport or John F. Kennedy International in New York or Newark Liberty International Airport in neighboring New Jersey, some say there’s no place like New York. 

There’s no shortage of things to do here, but some suggest the newly-launched Ghostbusters Guide to NYC (NYCTourism.com/Ghostbusters) in partnership with Sony Pictures on the recent debut of, "Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire?"

Consider staying at the Plaza Hotel and round out your NYC experience with the property’s famed afternoon tea in the magnificent Palm Court. 

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For something more budget-friendly, try the Moxy NYC Times Square or the Freehand New York in the Flatiron District.

Sit back and relax by the pool or the stunning beaches bordering the Caribbean Sea in Cancun. (Waldorf Astoria Cancun / Fox News)

You may decide to plop down at Waldorf Astoria Cancun or Hilton Cancun, at this beach destination in Mexico that lands on Google Flights' number six spot.

At the Waldorf Astoria Cancun, you’re in an oasis of mangroves that's located 15 minutes from Cancun International Airport.

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If you choose, you could also settle into all-inclusive mode at Hilton Cancun, which boasts 12 dining experiences, nightly activities and a kids' club and teen zone, according to Google Flights.

Whether you spend a day at a theme park or chill by the pool at your dreamy hotel, there is something for everyone in Orlanda. (Evermore Orlando Resort / Fox News)

Whether you’re venturing to Orlando for Walt Disney World or zooming through the headwaters of the Florida Everglades on an airboat tour, there’s no shortage of things to see and do in these parts. 

Catch shut-eye at Evermore Orlando Resort, a new $1.5 billion luxury resort that opened this year and brings a dreamy, man-made beach to the landlocked city.

8. Las Vegas

Everyone can't stop talking about the Sphere in Las Vegas and now is your chance to take a look at it for yourself on a vacation to Sin City. (The Venetian / Fox News)

The biggest draw in Sin City these days seems to be the Sphere, a high-tech, dome-shaped entertainment venue that opened in 2023. 

But arguably, Vegas wouldn’t be Vegas without living it up on The Strip. 

To do that, you may want to stay at the pyramid-shaped Luxor, where you can catch the Blue Man Group performing or people-watch at the outdoor pool.

There’s also the Play Playground, an adults-only hub that is brimming with fun physical games, team games, puzzles and more. 

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Or, set up shop at The Venetian Resort Las Vegas, which has a five-acre pool, a spa and TAO Beach Dayclub. 

Summer may be the perfect time to enjoy all that Seattle has to offer with its stunning trails and tasty dining locations. (iStock / iStock)

Seattle is a city of many wonders. 

The home of Starbucks and Amazon, stroll around the Seattle Art Museum, Museum of Pop Culture or Chihuly Garden and Glass located next to the Space Needle at Seattle Center. 

Or, enjoy more active hiking at the Burke-Gilman Trail, the Seward Park outer loop, or the Snow Lake Trail, less than an hour away from downtown Seattle.

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Plus, Seattle really shines in the summer thanks to its gorgeous weather, waterfront happenings and walks along the Puget Sound, and Pike Place Market’s outdoor dining coming to life.  

The final spot on the top 10 list goes to Athens, Greece, a city filled with so much culture and history you will want to make sure you give yourself enough time to see it all. (iStock / iStock)

Sneaking into the top 10 is Greece’s largest and capital city.

Upon arrival at Athens International Airport "Eleftherios Venizelos" (ATH), you’re likely going to be hungry. 

Though you’d be hard-pressed to find a meal that doesn’t dazzle your taste buds, some options include Volvi Souvlaki for its affordable and souvlaki (meat skewers) and gyros (souvlaki stuffed in pita with accouterments like tomatoes, onion and tzatziki), Stone Athens for seafood and Acropolis scenic vistas and Abibayio for delectable Greek fare. 

You may want to visit the Acropolis and the Parthenon, so try a pit-stop at Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center, in less touristy Kallithea and then cross the bridge and browse the eateries and boutiques along the pier. 

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Check out the most popular places for summer vacations in 2024 that can take you around the world, according to Google Flights. (iStock; The Venetian / Fox News)

Or, opt to visit the Archaeological Museum of the Athenian Agora, located in the ancient Agora where you can also see the Temple of Hephaestus, which is one of the best preserved temples in Greece and the National Archaeological Museum of Athens, a dazzling collection that includes Cycladic and Minoan art as well as Mycenaean art, including the so-called "Mask of Agamemnon," which any classics PhD or history buff will deem "extremely cool." 

When the sun sets in the Mediterranean, consider reserving your digs at The New Hotel Athens, where you can experience the aromatic salt scrub or hot seashell massage to revive your muscles after long days of sightseeing. Visit thepointsguy.com to see the full list of Google Flights' top summer destinations of the year.

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