paris travel tips reddit

All products and listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you purchase something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Europe Chevron

France Chevron

Ile-de-France Chevron

Paris Chevron

42 Best Things to Do in Paris

By Julia Eskins and Melissa Liebling-Goldberg

The question isn't what to do in Paris, but rather how to decide. With so many wonderful museums, historic landmarks, and curated boutiques, it’s impossible to fit everything into your itinerary. Perhaps this is why the French capital is among the world’s most-visited cities. Whether it’s your first time or fifth, we’ve got you covered with some of the best things to do in Paris, from the unmissable monuments across the City of lights to the local-loved  favorites that will make you feel like a true Parisian in the making. All you have to do now is pack, put on your most comfortable shoes, and decide where to go first. These are the best things to do in Paris on your next visit.

Read our complete Paris travel guide here .  

This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

Jardin du Luxembourg Arrow

Located in the heart of the Sixth Arrondissement, the famous Jardin du Luxembourg is an inviting green oasis for Parisians and visitors alike. Come for people watching, romantic strolls, picnics, or just to admire the mash-up of English, Italian, and French landscaping influences. If you're feeling athletic, join the early-morning joggers or stake out one of the tennis and pétanque courts.

Samaritaine Paris Pont-Neuf by DFS Arrow

Did Paris need another department store? Certainly not. But this one has a legacy that laid dormant for 16 years: The 19th century landmark reopened in 2021 after a $900 million restoration by LVMH, and swapped the utilitarian focus for one decidedly more upscale. Locals used to shop here for everything from light bulbs and garden supplies to dresses, but now it's a gallery of sorts for designer clothes, beauty brands, and a handful of food and Champagne concept spaces throughout the shop. But it's an Art Deco and Art Nouveau wonder which is the primary reason to visit. Approximately 215,000 square feet are devoted to retail space in this complex, which includes the Cheval Blanc hotel, office space, and housing, making it the smallest of the city’s department stores (the others are Le Bon Marché, Printemps, and Galeries Lafayette). The spaces it does occupy covers the usual terrain: streetwear and luxury ready-to-wear which includes pieces exclusive to La Samaritaine, clean beauty and classic perfumers, handbags and fine jewelry, and several rooms used for rotating thematic installations.

Basilique du Sacré-Coeur de Montmartre Arrow

Sacré-Coeur is a Catholic basilica that sits on the highest hill in Paris, in the Montmartre neighborhood. Its height is topped only by the Eiffel Tower. The basilica's distinct white travertine façade gives the Romano-Byzantine structure a unique look among Parisian monuments. The church is open all day to anyone who wishes to visit, though big crowds mean you may have to wait to go inside.

Musée du Louvre Arrow

The Louvre hardly needs an introduction—it is still the most-visited museum in the world, welcoming 8.9 million visitors in 2023. The former royal palace is now the magnificent home of some of the world's most iconic artworks (ever heard of the Mona Lisa?). Don't freak out, but walking through the halls where Louis XIV once strolled (he lived here before moving to Versailles), surrounded by the most famous art on earth can be an overwhelming experience. What’s more, there are some 35,000 artworks and artifacts from prehistory to the 21st century housed within its walls. As a result, it could take a lifetime to see and experience it all so don’t try (the museum sells multi-day passes so you can spread out your visit). 

Palais Garnier Arrow

The pinnacle of Napoleon III architecture, the resplendent Le Palais Garnier opera house is opulent from every angle. The facade is covered with ornamentation and busts, as well as l'Harmonie and La Poésie, the two gilded copper statues flanking the entrance from on high. Inside, make sure to channel your best "Phantom of the Opera" moment on the iconic lobby's Grand Staircase, a triumph of decadent Parisian design. Admission costs about 14 euros, but it's well worth it—walking through these public spaces is like walking into the Paris of the past. The Opéra National de Paris is going back to performances in mid July, with reduced attendance and the country's health pass required.

Centre Pompidou Arrow

When the Centre Pompidou, known by locals as  Beaubourg ,  opened in 1977, it was a radical (and controversial) design for a museum—all industrial pipes and open glass views of Paris. Forty-plus years later it's the undisputed grande dame of Paris's contemporary art world. Within the massive 100,000-piece collection that stretches back to 1905, you’ll find everything from Picassos to video installations. It is highly recommended to book your tickets in advance for a specific time slot and note that if you’re in town on the first Sunday of the month, admission to the permanent collection and children’s gallery is free. 

Merci Arrow

Merci is an independent concept boutique, spread out over three loft-like floors in the Marais. The well-curated selection of clothes, accessories, home goods, and just about anything else you might want, draws savvy shoppers from around the globe. Keep an eye out for up-and-coming designers and labels especially in the central space that houses themed pop-ups, or go for Merci’s own affordable in-house brand. Either way, you'll be hard-pressed to walk out empty-handed.

Musée Yves Saint Laurent Paris Arrow

Musée Yves Saint Laurent Paris is housed in a private mansion that served as the legendary fashion designer’s headquarters from 1974 to 2002. The museum opened in 2017 alongside its Moroccan counterpart, Musée Yves Saint Laurent Marrakech, and hosts retrospectives and temporary exhibits. With a focus on Saint Laurent’s creative process rather than the brand’s history, the small museum is a treasure trove of iconic haute couture designs, as well as illustrations, photographs, sketches, and films. Spread out over 4,800 feet, the museum was designed to recreate the intimate feel of the original couture house. Highlights include the reception rooms where the designer met with clients, as well as the studio, where all of the collections were designed.

Westfield Forum des Halles Arrow

The Forum des Halles is a sprawling shopping, dining, and transportation hub right in the heart of Paris, with nearly 150 shops and restaurants. A 2016 renovation saw the addition of a spectacular wavy roof nicknamed La Canopée—you’re going to want a picture of it. Though the architecture is new, the shopping concept is not: A market has stood on this very site since the 1100s.

Hôtel de la Marine Arrow

This recent addition to the capital’s cultural offering is unlike any other in the city, largely by dint of its heritage and size. Perched over the Place de la Concorde, the museum occupies the former royal Garde Meuble—the depository for the King’s furniture collections, crown jewels, tapestries, and decorative arts—and what later became the country’s naval headquarters for 200 years. Given that it is only a year old, it remains moderately trafficked but the word is out. Open to the public for the first time in 250 years, its new incarnation as an immersive museum experience allows visitors to explore the 18th century apartments of the Garde-Meuble intendants, recreated and restored to their original layout and design, as well as the structure’s grand reception halls filled with period furnishings, paintings, and objets d’art. Key to the visit is the audio guide, which leans theatrical. You could speed through the audio guide in an hour, get a view of the Place de la Concorde from the covered balcony, and take in the jaw-dropping Cabinet des Glaces, a mirror-walled boudoir not unlike the hall of mirrors in Versailles, covered in paintings.

Le Bon Marché Arrow

Dating back to the 1850s, Le Bon Marché is the oldest department store in Paris, and certainly the most iconic. The elegant Left Bank institution is as celebrated for its airy layout as for its top selection of the world’s best designers. If it’s luxe, you can probably buy it here. Before your shopping spree is done, peek in at La Grande Épicerie, Le Bon Marché’s fine-foods emporium in an adjoining building.

Musée Picasso Paris Arrow

The Hôtel Salé alone is reason to visit, but of course the real draw is Picasso's oeuvre, more popular than ever following a much-hyped 2014 reopening. And since the museum is centrally located in the bustling Marais, it's easy to work the Musée Picasso into a day out shopping and dining. While there are other single-artist museums in Paris, the combination of Picasso's fame and the beauty of the setting make this one of the very best. Timed tickets must be reserved online in advance to visit the museum. Reserve tickets in advance to avoid long lines.

Arc de Triomphe Arrow

The Arc de Triomphe was commissioned by Napoleon in 1806 to celebrate his victory at the Battle of Austerlitz. Climb the nearly 300 steps or take the elevator to the top for some of the best views of Paris, with clear vistas straight down the Champs-Élysées all the way to the Louvre. You'll need a ticket purchased online or at the entrance to go inside and up to the viewing platform, but anyone can come to admire the ornate façade for free.

Galeries Lafayette Haussmann Arrow

Historic department store Galeries Lafayette Haussmann isn’t just one of Paris's first “luxury bazaars” but also an emblem of Art Nouveau architecture. The French chain's flagship location in the 9th arrondissement features a striking domed roof with stained glass windows by master glassmaker Jacques Gruber. And with over 750,000 square feet of retail space, beautifully designed window displays, and special events, it's easily one of the best places to shop in Paris . You’ll find almost every major luxury brand under Galeries Lafayette Haussmann’s roof but the department store also makes a point of spotlighting emerging designers. Some labels, like Ester Manas (a sustainable and size-inclusive fashion brand) offer exclusive pieces you won’t find anywhere else. On the fourth floor, one of the broadest shoe selections in the world boasts over 200 brands ranging from Veja Shoemakers to Maison Margiela. Beyond the luxury goods, a highlight is the rooftop terrace, which offers a spectacular view of the city. 

Palais-Royal Arrow

The Palais-Royal complex is in some ways Paris in a nutshell: shops, cafés, art, history, architecture, bureaucracy, and spectacular gardens for people watching. And since it's all right across the street from the Louvre, you likely won't need to make a special trip. Don’t miss the Insta-famous Colonnes de Buren art installation in the inner courtyard.

Panthéon Arrow

There are a few major reasons to visit the Panthéon, starting with the gorgeous neoclassical architecture; designed by Jacques-Germain Soufflot in 1757, it began as a replacement to the original Church of Sainte-Geneviève. People also come to visit the final resting places of some of France's most famous sons and daughters, from Victor Hugo to Marie Curie. And then there are those who come to marvel at Foucault's Pendulum, tracing the path of the Earth. The vibe in the crowd is a mix of awe, reverence, and curiosity. Timed tickets can be purchased online.

Musée Rodin Arrow

Auguste Rodin lived in the Hôtel Biron in the later stage of his life, where the gardens inspired some of his work. The former home opened as a museum to the public in 1919, almost 200 years after it was built for a wealthy financier. The high ceilings of the intimate rooms allow visitors to see Rodin's sculptures and drawings up close, while the large gardens showcase his most famous bronze sculptures, like "The Gates of Hell" and "The Thinker."

Palais de Tokyo Arrow

The Palais de Tokyo is the largest center for contemporary art in Europe. Opened in 2002, its mission is to celebrate living artists across multiple disciplines. As part of the renovation of the building, the 1937 structure was stripped back to the original concrete, giving it a raw and unfinished feeling that is distinctly different from the typical white-room museum layout. Visitors should start their exploration in the subterranean levels, where art such as large-scale graffiti works are on display, and end with a drink or dinner either at Monsieur Bleu or Bambini, the more festive spot from the Paris Society Group.

Grand Palais Arrow

As associated with years of Chanel runway shows being held in the nave of this stately Beaux-Arts space as it is with the art exhibitions it houses, the Grand Palais is an emblem of French grandeur and architectural process. The grand dame of buildings, originally built for the World’s Fair of 1900, has been closed for refurbishments since 2021 and will reopen partially for the 2024 Summer Olympics before its grand reopening in 2025. The Grand Palais Ephémère, a 100,000-square-foot temporary space on the Champ de Mars, hosts the artistic, cultural, fashion, and art events that would typically be held in the Grand Palais.

Eiffel Tower Arrow

Gustave Eiffel's controversial wrought-iron lattice tower has been polarizing Parisians since it was built for the 1889 World's Fair, but today, the Eiffel Tower is one of the most beloved and instantly recognizable landmarks in the city—and the world. The structure anchors one end of the expansive Champ de Mars and provides an orientation point for the city. Jules Verne, the second-floor restaurant, is a Michelin-starred (and pricey) institution that is currently closed for renovation until the fall, as is the tiny Champagne bar at the tippity-top, which is still closed due to COVID regulations. The Eiffel Tower will reopen to visitors on July 16 and is currently accepting reservations for timed tickets.

Père Lachaise Cemetery Arrow

If visiting a cemetery sounds morbid and dreary, rest assured: It is, but in the best possible way. Death is an inescapable part of French life, and the layers on layers of Parisian history on display at Père Lachaise Cemetery are a fascinating peek into how the city has evolved over time. Visitors flock to the A-list graves here, with Oscar Wilde, Edith Piaf, and Jim Morrison among the most-visited. But one of the great delights is to walk away from the crowds and get lost wandering among the lesser-known, less-visited ones, which are all in various states of repair. Some have been completely worn down with obscurity over time; others appear to be washed and adorned with fresh flowers on a weekly basis. Keep your eyes peeled, and you might find some other noteworthy names buried here, from composer Frédéric Chopin to writer Marcel Proust and painter Eugène Delacroix.

Café de Flore Arrow

Stepping into Café de Flore is like stepping into a time capsule, into an era when the Left Bank was a bohemian enclave for the likes of Pablo Picasso and Ernest Hemingway. The interior—red booths, mahogany, polished brass railings—has changed little since the Art Deco period, but anyone who is anyone knows that the best seats in the house are actually out on the sidewalk (and thankfully the famous terrasse is open at full capacity again), where the people watching can't be beat and the city's café iconic culture is at its finest. Although afternoons are best for perching on a table outside and enjoying the pulse of Boulevard Saint-Germain, there's also a vibrant after-dark scene. In other words, there's no wrong time to visit.

Musée Histoire de Paris Carnavalet (The Carnavalet-History of Paris Museum)

The oldest museum dedicated to the history of Paris itself originally opened in a historic mansion in the Marais in 1880, but a recent renovation completed in 2021 has thoroughly brought the space into the modern era. The layout of the building has been redesigned, highlighting the beauty of the mid-16th century mansions as much as helping you to discover the paleolithic origins of the city through the present with 3,800 works now on display. Additionally, the museum is even easier to navigate now for everyone, with a new approach to accessibility including elevators and ramps. Don’t miss the newly added restaurant on the gardens as well for a post-visit refreshment.

Philharmonie de Paris Arrow

The Philharmonie de Paris is a striking contemporary building, designed by Jean Nouvel (not without controversy) and opened in 2015. Located within the Cité de la Musique complex in the Parc de la Villette, in the underexplored 19th arrondissement, the building breaks with all the design conventions of traditional symphony halls, instead favoring pod-like boxes inside the theater, a stage in the round, and a complex, undulating metal façade.

Musée d'Orsay Arrow

A vast collection of Impressionist art is the focus at the Musée d’Orsay, the second-most-visited museum in Paris (after the Louvre, of course). At every turn, you'll be delighted to recognize yet another piece from pop culture or that art history class you took. There is no room not worth exploring here, so let yourself just wander among masterworks by names like Degas, Cézanne, Manet, Renoir, and Monet. Pre-booking online is recommended for priority access within 30 minutes of the reserved time.  

Musée du Quai Branly-Jacques Chirac Arrow

The Musée du Quai Branly-Jacques Chirac is perhaps best known for its unusual design by Jean Nouvel. The exterior of the building almost seems alive with plant walls and wild gardens, while the interiors are dark, winding, and dramatically lit. The modern structure stands in sharp contrast with the treasures housed inside: ancient art and artifacts and relics of bygone civilizations (with a specific focus on non-European cultures). Be sure to check out the museum's continuous calendar of special exhibitions, including shows centered around a specific culture.

Deyrolle Arrow

Deyrolle is a cabinet of curiosities. The Left Bank institution has specialized in taxidermy and entomology since 1831, but in 2008 a fire destroyed nearly 90 percent of the collection, creating the need for a radical restoration project. Today you can hardly tell that the shop is, in fact, a replica of its former 17th-century iteration, right down to the wood cabinetry, parquet floors, and painted walls.

Les Bouquinistes Arrow

Walking along the banks of the Seine is an activity as beloved and ancient as the city itself. Along both sides of the river, roughly from Île Saint Louis to the Louvre, are the city's Bouquinistes, independent sellers of used and antiquarian books, old maps, postcards, and all sorts of mementos. It's an activity that rewards patience—you just might find a vintage movie poster or first-edition book to bring home.

Jardin des Tuileries Arrow

This sprawling, spectacular park is the beating heart of Paris' public spaces. Standing proudly between the Louvre and Place de la Concorde, and along much of the Seine's Right Bank in the 1st Arrondissement, Tuileries Garden ("Jardin des Tuileries") has a history as long and distinguished as it is impressive, from its inception as an aristocratic playground in the 16th century, to becoming a public space in the 17th century, to serving as the site of numerous French Revolution skirmishes in the 18th century. With more than 55 acres, the park offers plenty of room to stroll and lots of photo ops. Keep an eye out for Auguste Rodin's iconic "Le Baiser" ("The Kiss") on the West Terrace. If you have anywhere to go in this part of Paris, skip the taxi or the metro and walk there on foot through the Tuileries. You'll see something different every time.

Fondation Louis Vuitton Arrow

As one of few privately owned and funded art spaces in Paris (owned by LVMH chairman Bernard Arnault), the Fondation Louis Vuitton arrived with a bang when it opened to the public in 2014. Star Canadian-American architect Frank Gehry designed the building, which looks like a magical sailboat afloat on a man-made lake in the Bois de Boulogne. Thanks to the spectacular architecture and blockbuster exhibitions, the museum is bustling at all times, despite its location in the far reaches of the 16th Arrondissement.

Shakespeare and Company Arrow

Nestled on a prime slice of real estate across the Seine from Notre Dame, Shakespeare and Company is part indie bookshop, part piece of history. The roster of authors who have lingered among the shelves here reads like canon of 20th-century literature, including Ezra Pound, Gertrude Stein, Ernest Hemingway, F. Scott Fitzgerald, and contemporaries like Zadie Smith. Every inch of the space oozes history, from the leaning antique bookshelves to the resident cat to the well-worn piano, which is tucked away upstairs. The café is a great place for people watching—and maybe eavesdropping on a conversation or two while you sip on a café au lait. It still serves original proprietor George Whitman's famous lemon pie, as well.

Le Train Bleu Arrow

It's hard to believe one of Paris' most serene, picturesque and dignified restaurants is also located within one of its busiest train stations, but Le Train Bleu, an icon of Parisian dining, is a far cry from the Gare de Lyon's hustle and bustle. Every inch of this place drips with Parisian opulence in the best possible way. It won't be your cheapest meal in Paris, but it might be your most memorable—or at least your most photographed.

National Museum of Natural History Arrow

Part curio cabinet, part institution of higher learning—it's part of the Sorbonne—the National Museum of Natural History is filled with exhibitions that inspire awe in visitors of all ages. The museum consists of 14 locations across France, but the Grande Galerie d'Evolution on the Left Bank is the showstopper all its own, with interiors that pay homage to Art Nouveau Paris through elegant wrought iron railings and soaring glass windows. It's a stark contrast to the main gallery's menagerie of articulated skeletons, taxidermies, and lifelike replications. The main attraction—especially for kids—is the permanent display of life-size elephants and giraffes, but the temporary exhibitions are also good.

Coulée Verte René-Dumont Arrow

Originally known as the Promenade Plantée, the Coulée Verte René-Dumont is an elevated park built atop a revitalized railway structure. Opened in the late 1980s, the lush garden path stretches for three miles, with landscapes ranging from modern and manicured to wild and natural. This greenway, which for many will recall New York City's High Line, provides an unusual panoramic view over the 12th arrondissement—and since this crosses through less-touristy neighborhoods, you'll get a sense of the real quotidian Paris.

Marché des Enfants Rouges Arrow

The Marché des Enfants Rouges is the oldest food market in Paris (it first opened in 1615), and is now a buzzing Marais hub for food sellers of all types. Stroll through the dense maze of stalls selling everything from North African grains to Italian deli specialties. For those who want a break from the formality of the traditional French dining experience, this market offers a relaxed and (mostly outdoors) convivial atmosphere (and a great place to stock up on snacks for your hotel room or Airbnb).

Institut du Monde Arabe Arrow

The Institut du Monde Arabe opened in 1987 but its iconic building, designed by Jean Nouvel, looks as fresh and contemporary as ever. The light dances in and around the building, thanks to the distinctive pattern of 240 mashrabiyas—half of which have photosensitive apertures that open up to 18 times a day. There are multiple dining options within the museum, from self-service to fine dining (both located on the ninth floor, with spectacular views out over the city). The museum sees a mix of visitors—those who are interested in the Arab world, obviously, from the merely curious to experts, and those who are visiting for the famous building design. The museum is so light-filled and airy that you rarely feel that the spaces are crowded, and the glimpses of the the Seine and the Left Bank offer a beautiful counterpoint to the work within. Everyone should take the time to walk around the museum's exterior to fully appreciate the innovative and captivating façade.

Au Lapin Agile Arrow

There are plenty of old things in Paris—some more original than others—but for the last 160 years, Au Lapin Agile has managed to maintain its bohemian character. Nestled on a quiet street in Montmartre, this venue feels like a step back in time—and into a cabaret where the likes of Picasso and Modigliani used to haunt before they were, you know, Picasso and Modigliani. It's the perfect stop for an after-dinner drink with a side of entertainment.

Maison Victor Hugo

Newly reopened after a two year renovation, you can now imagine yourself living the life of a 19th-century writer by wandering through Victor Hugo’s former home on the iconic Place des Vosges. You can discover the home he moved into the year following the publication of “The Hunchback of Notre Dame,” which is recreated to show the periods of his life pre-exile, in-exile at his home in Guernsey and post-exile along with special exhibitions of his works, including his drawings. A new feature of the renovation is the addition of a garden with a cafe at the exit of the tour.

La Bourse de Commerce - Pinault Collection

Just opened in May 2021, the newest space for contemporary art in Paris was commissioned by Francois Pinault to house part of his vast personal collection, amassed over 40 years. Designed by Tadao Ondo, the revitalized commodities exchange building is located just blocks from the Louvre in the 1st Arrondissement. With 5,000 works from the Pinault Collection to be displayed across the 3,000 sq. meter space, you can expect to see works from the 1960s to the present with artists including Maurizio Cattelan, Urs Fischer, and Rudolf Stingel.

Fouquet's Arrow

Many come to Fouquet's to see and be seen, but the seasonal menu by three Michelin-starred Chef Pierre Gagnaire makes it a worthy stop for more than just a cocktail. The atmosphere is chic and retro, without the pretentiousness you would expect from a celebrity-frequented haunt. It’s easy to spend a few hours soaking in the atmosphere of the warm and cozy dining room, which is usually filled with a mix of well-to-do Parisians, film industry veterans, and travelers with an appreciation of classic French gastronomy. Since opening in 1899, the classic brasserie has been a meeting place for those in the arts and culture industry, with past guests including Charlie Chaplin, Marlene Dietrich, Edith Piaf, Jackie Kennedy, and Liza Minnelli. It still hosts the gala dinner for the César Awards (the French equivalent of the Oscars) and has maintained a strong link to the film industry. The restaurant itself has been protected as a historical French monument since 1990 and the classic interiors—complete with warm mahogany wood paneling by Jean Royère—are beautifully preserved.

Parc des Buttes-Chaumont Arrow

Unlike most of the rest of the major parks in Paris, this is a natural space without any rigid formality. The 62-acre park, opened in 1867 as part of the Paris Universal Exposition, is built on a former quarry; there are rocky elevations to traipse up with amazing views of the city, including Sacre Couer in nearby Montmartre. And seeing as it's in the 19th arrondissement, you can expect an authentic Parisian experience, off the beaten tourist path—you'll likely need to take a quick metro or taxi ride to get there.

Galerie Vivienne Arrow

Galerie Vivienne is a covered shopping arcade, originally built in 1823 and designed by architect François-Jean Delannoy. It remains open to the public for shopping in a mix of high-end boutiques (Jean-Paul Gaultier opened his first flagship in the arcade in 1986, for example). The glass and steel roof lets in sunlight down to the mosaic floors, making this a uniquely beautiful way to shop and stroll on your way to the nearby Palais-Royal .

Recommended

By signing up you agree to our User Agreement (including the class action waiver and arbitration provisions ), our Privacy Policy & Cookie Statement and to receive marketing and account-related emails from Traveller. You can unsubscribe at any time. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar
• Skip to footer

17 Paris Travel Tips For an Especially EXTRA Trip to Paris

Sean Finelli Last Updated: March 9, 2023

Paris is a dream travel destination that you’re going to want to do right. The problem is it’s a huge city with tons to see and many don’t get the full experience. The perfect trip does exist and it can differ from visitor to visitor. Follow these travel tips to avoid tourist mistakes for an extra special trip to Paris!

Pro Tip: Planning what to do on your trip to Paris? Bookmark this post in your browser so you can easily find it when you’re in the city. Check out our guide to Paris for more planning resources, our top Paris tours for a memorable trip, and how to see Paris in a day .

17 Tips for the Best Trip To Paris

What comes to mind when you imagine your perfect trip to Paris? Everybody’s version is different, but there are some things you must do in Paris for a great immersive experience.

Paris has gorgeous cathedrals, endless museums, a mix of classical and modern architecture, great fashion, and of course amazing food and beverage scene. In this guide, we share our top travel tips for the best trip to Paris.

Not ready to book a tour? See if Paris tours are worth it .

17. Climb the Arc De Triomphe

Considered by many to be the best view in Paris, this triumphant arch sits in the middle of a busy intersection connected to Avenue des Champs-Élysées.

It costs €13 to get inside and you have to climb over 284 steps to get to the top, but it’s worth it. The arch is open daily from 10 am to 11 pm, however, opening hours are subject to seasonal changes so check the website before your visit.

16. Get Ready to Eat Late

In Paris, people don’t eat as late as in Spain or Italy but don’t try to sit down to dinner before 7 pm. Any self-respecting Parisian restaurant will not open before 7 pm.

That said, if you can’t wait til then, you may find a decent café or bistro with continuous service that will still be a great option. Check out the best cafés in Paris for some inspiration.

15. Explore the Paris Catacombs Beneath the City Streets

Have you ever seen an ossuary of 6 million skeletons? You will in the Paris Catacombs and some are even organized into works of art! This is one of the most unique places to visit on our planet—isn’t that what travel is all about?

Needless to say, the catacombs are extremely popular and people literally line up around the block to see them. You can buy Paris Catacombs tickets in advance or reserve your spot on our small group tour that comes with skip-the-line access. Either way, this jaw-dropping site is a must.

Not ready to book a tour? Find out if a Paris Catacombs tour is worth it .

14. Dress for the Cold

Paris is cold for most months of the year. Unless you plan on buying something when you arrive, it doesn’t hurt to bring some warmer evening clothes in case of cool weather.

Exceptions are June, July, and August. That said, I’ve been to Paris in early June and late August and wished I had a light jacket for the evening.

13. Eat and Drink What the Locals Recommend

I went out to eat in Paris one evening and asked the waiter what to eat. He held out his hand motioning to my menu and asked, “May I?”

I said yes, and he took the menu and walked away. It was the best meal I’ve had in Paris.

If you want to eat well in Paris, ask your waiter what they recommend. In a good restaurant, they won’t lead you astray. The same applies to drinks. The French have great wine and Champagne.

If you’re a wine snob, do your thing. If not, ask people what you should drink. After dinner, there’s an assortment of cordials that you should try. Ask your server what should come next. It’s part of the experience

Check out the top French foods you have to try for inspiration. However, the best way to eat and drink like a local is to let one show you around. Join a local guide for great food and drinks on a Paris food tour .

12. Bring Stylish but Comfortable Shoes

Like any city in Europe, you’ll do a lot of walking. You should bring comfortable sneakers for getting around. That said, it’s also Paris and people are super stylish, so you’ll stand out walking around in fluorescent Asics.

Find a pair of sneakers in a neutral color and you should be good. If you want to be on the safe side, wear black.

11. Visit the Louvre and See Liberty Leading the People

The Louvre houses a world-class collection of national and international artwork with over 480,000 pieces. Some of it is meant to be there and some of it is stolen. All of it, however, is a must-see.

Don’t miss Liberty Leading the People , a painting that commemorates a pivotal moment in France’s history, and other famous works of art .

The Louvre is an enormous structure at over 650,000 square feet (60,000 square meters). With so much ground to cover and history to take in, it pays to go with a guided tour of the Louvre . Luckily, ours is the best!

Not ready to book a tour? See if a Louvre Museums tour is worth it .

10. Purchase Travel Insurance

Now more than ever, travel insurance is something you should look into. Just be aware of what your travel insurance policy covers. Does it cover cancellation for any reason? Does it cover a pandemic? Tsunami?

We recommend AIG / Travel Guard as we’ve never heard any negative feedback from our customers who have purchased their policy.

9. Do a Tour of the Hall of Mirrors in Versailles

Versailles is the top most-visited attraction after the Louvre. I went back there in 2017 on a cool day in April and was shocked by how long the line was to get in and it’s not any better now.

This opulent royal residence welcomes close to 15 million visitors every year. Vacation time is precious, so we recommend avoiding queues whenever you can.

Our guided tour of Versailles comes with skip-the-line tickets and makes visiting this World Heritage site easy. Our licensed guide also takes you inside the museums, bringing the palace and the people who loved Versailles to life. It definitely beats an audioguide.

Versailles is one of those places you go by yourself, are in and out in 20 minutes, and say, “We definitely didn’t need a tour.” Then, you go to Versailles with a guided tour and say, “Thank god we took a guided tour.” If you don’t go on a tour, you won’t know what you’re missing!

Not ready to book a tour? Find out if a Versailles tour is worth it .

8. Ride the Metro and Download the RATP App

Paris is huge. Getting around can be difficult, but the Paris Metro is incredible and the best way to travel—it goes everywhere and fast.

Download the RATP app to help navigate this massive metro system and avoid confusion. The app does the thinking for you so you can just enjoy being on vacation.

7. Credit Cards are King, Mostly

You can pretty much use your credit card anywhere in Paris. There may be a bread shop with a €10 minimum but otherwise, feel free.

If you are going to use a debit card, you’ll need a chip debit card with a pin code. Most people in Europe wouldn’t even know to mention this as having a pin for purchases is normal.

Call your bank a few weeks before your trip to make sure you are set up or get a better credit card for international travel.

6. See the Fountain of Apollo in the Versailles Gardens

Going to Versailles is a Paris must. What started as a modest hunting lodge became a palace literally adorned with gold. I highly recommend making time to explore the exquisite gardens after your palace visit.

You could spend the whole day there and plan a picnic in the gardens or easily see it in a morning or afternoon. Check out our post on how to visit Versailles on your own or book a guided Versailles tour for a stress-free way to see all the important parts, including the Fountain of Apollo.

Not ready to book a tour? See our best Versailles tours to take and why .

5. Use an ATM, Not an Exchange Bureau

This goes for anywhere in Europe. Find an ATM with a no-fee agreement with your bank or take the maximum out possible to reduce the fees you need to pay. 99 out of 100 times it is cheaper than exchange houses, which I simply wouldn’t ever use.

4. Dinner Is About the Food

I take dinner in Paris quite seriously. It’s one of the great food capitals of the world and I want to experience the best of French cuisine. I always plan out my dinners in advance and make reservations and I recommend you do the same.

French food, like Italian, has incredible diversity and you can find almost every regional cuisine represented in Paris. For the ultimate dining experience, check out the best Michelin-star restaurants in Paris .

If you’re a foodie looking to explore French cuisine, I highly recommend joining our Paris food tour for a fun night with delicious food.

Not ready to book a tour? Check out our  best Paris tours to take and why .

3. Lunch is About the View

If dinner is for the very best food, lunch is for great views and soaking up the city vibe. It’s the perfect opportunity to sit outside, take in the Paris streets, and enjoy the scenery.

Of course, I want to eat well but I’m more concerned about the ambiance. If I get both, then great. If not, I’m happy with a decent meal on an awesome street.

Check out the best restaurants in the trendy Le Marais neighborhood for a cool ambiance, great people-watching, and delicious food.

2. Climb the Eiffel Tower

There’s no seeing Paris without seeing the Eiffel Tower. But what many visitors miss out on is the breathtaking view of the city from atop one of the world’s most iconic landmarks.

It might be because of the notoriously long lines, but don’t let that deter you! Our Eiffel Tower tours come with skip-the-line tickets, a Seine River cruise, and options to see the Iron Lady during the day or fully lit up at night.

Not ready to book a tour? Find out if an Eiffel Tower tour is worth it .

1. Ride Electric Scooters in Paris

When you think of riding a scooter in a European city, you might imagine a romantic Vespa ride. But that’s not what I mean.

Paris is home to a huge network of electric scooters all over the city that you can rent. It’s a fantastic way to get around and they’re battery-powered.

Download an app from one of the companies offering scooter rental. I use Bird but only because it was the first one I picked up. There are many others now. Just book a scooter in-app and off you go!

Your cc info is stored in the app and tracks your usage. It’s also pretty cheap. You can either pay €1 and then €0.15 per minute you ride or buy a block of time. They go for €2.50 for 10 minutes or €5.50 for 30 minutes.

Honestly, this is one of the things I look forward to when going to Paris. You can cruise alongside the Seine or around town super easily. Paris has great sidewalks so it’s pretty safe. If you’re comfortable riding one, I highly recommend getting around and seeing Paris on a an electric scooter.

Where To Stay in Paris

With a city as magnificent as Paris, it can be hard to find the perfect hotel at the perfect price. Explore the best hotels and places to stay in these incredible neighborhoods in Paris.

About Sean Finelli

Sean is a co-founder and owner of The Tour Guy and its subsidiary The Roman Guy. He studied finance and statistics, but that is his "Dr. Jekyll" side! His "Mr. Hyde" is in love with travel, art, history, and culture. Sean has read libraries of historical text and believes that all internet content should come from books. A practice he follows!

Reader Interactions

Comments (2).

May 7, 2021

I absolutely love y’all. Each of our Tour Guy tours has been with friendly, knowledgeable, and interesting guides. Your virtual events have brought smiles to my face during this pandemic. And I am now hopeful that I can book another international tour with you to some place wonderful in the very near future. Thank you for keeping us engaged, travel-minded, curious, and excited for the future.

Melody P Austin, TX

Saying that means a lot to myself and the team. We’ve been going 24/7 this entire time and we’ll be ready when you’re ready!

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

• Travel Blog
• In The Press

POLICY & TERMS

• Cancellation Policy
• Terms & Conditions
• Privacy Policy

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes
• Destinations

10 Common Travel Mistakes to Avoid in Paris, According to a Local

One Paris local shares some common mistakes travelers make in the city — and how to avoid them.

Christopher Larson/Travel + Leisure

First things first: Even the French — meaning non-Parisians — don't always get it right when visiting the country's capital. Why? Because in southwest France, pain au chocolat is called chocolatine , and in Alsace, they start their bisous (double-kiss greeting) on the left cheek, not the right. That means you likely won't be alone in making a faux pas when visiting. You're a tourist, after all. We know, we know — you want to avoid being pegged as one.

I'd say to leave the fanny pack and sneakers at home, but both are back in style these days, and Paris is known for its trendsetting ways. I learned this the hard way when moving here from New York in 2014. Since Parisians don't prance around in their gym clothes like Americans, I wore jeans to the yoga studio, only to arrive and realize I left my leggings back at chez moi. Thankfully, this always-be-dressed-to-impress rule has lightened up a bit due to the pandemic, although a few other steadfast rules remain.

Here are 10 travel mistakes to avoid on your next trip to Paris.

Not Saying "Bonjour" Upon Entry or "S'il Vous Plait" and "Merci" Enough

It's one of the first things we're taught in grade school: Mind your Ps and Qs. In Paris, it's also imperative to say "hello" ( bonjour if it's daytime, bonsoir if it's nighttime) upon entering a store or restaurant. Eye contact is encouraged, too. Acknowledge your fellow humans. It took me a while to get used to this one, and I'll never forget the time I walked up to someone at a store and launched directly into a question before saying bonjour . Madame, understandably, was not happy. When in doubt, simply start with bonjour .

Waiting for Water and the Bill at Restaurants

Let's start with dining out, as eating and drinking in Paris is a favorite pastime and one to be taken seriously — so seriously, in fact, that you won't be rushed out the door upon finishing your meal. Eating is a time to savor both the flavors of the food and the company you keep. This is why the bill won't arrive as soon as your plates have been cleared and you've had your last sip of water. (Speaking of, you'll likely have to ask for water — une carafe d'eau, s'il vous plait , if you just want tap — unless you're at a super-fancy restaurant). The bill will only be dropped on the table when you ask for it ( l'addition, s'il vous plait ).

Forgetting to Book Ahead at Restaurants

Most reputable restaurants require bookings. For some, that means the night before; for others, it means a week or a month ahead. Either way, it's important to put your name on the list. Dining rooms are significantly smaller in Paris, and unlike American cities such as Los Angeles or New York, they're not as interested in turning tables and increasing head count as they are in making something delicious during their set kitchen hours. Generally, this time frame falls between noon and 2:15 p.m. for lunch and 7 p.m. and 10:30 p.m. for dinner, though there are all-day restaurants and cafés (look for signs that say service continu ).

Not everyone travels to eat, but if you do, plan ahead and make a reservation. Many restaurants have online systems so you don't have to worry whether to use tu or vous when addressing the person on a phone call. (To be safe, always go with vous .)

Visiting in August or December

Alexander Spatari / Getty Images

If you're traveling to eat at a specific Michelin-starred spot or the new pop-up from a chef you follow on Instagram, avoid visiting in August or December when many restaurants close for vacation. If you're a first-timer or don't care much for croissants and think all baguettes are created equal (see next section), monuments, museums, and parks will all still be open. But, in general, the city does have a quiet, closed-up vibe during these two months. Some love it, while others, like me, thrive on the buzz.

Of course, thanks to the 2024 Olympics, this August will be busier than usual, though things should calm down toward the end of the month.

Getting a Coffee at a Corner Café

If you haven't already noticed, in France, food is la vie . It may be your dream to visit Paris, sit on one of those wicker chairs facing the street, and order a café crème . It was mine, too. And yes, there is nothing quite like people-watching or reading the likes of Hemingway or Sartre from one of these corner cafés. But if I may, let me remind you of two things: Smoking is still permitted on terraces, so expect whatever you order to come with a side of secondhand smoke. And the coffee at such places is arguably not good. You're better off ordering wine or a beer if all you want to do is imbibe and take in the scene. Quality bean lovers should seek out any number of the newer craft coffee shops that now proliferate Paris for a true filtre (long, black drip coffee) or a crème where the foam isn't the equivalent of overly soapy bath bubbles.

Buying a Baguette Instead of a Tradition

At the bakery, meanwhile, ask for a tradition ( tradi if you really want to seem like a local) rather than a baguette. The latter is white inside, can be made with any ingredients, and is often mass-produced, so it's not quite as delicious. A tradi can only contain flour, salt, water, and yeast and is usually made by hand on the premises; therefore, it's much tastier. If you're lucky to get one straight out of the oven, I dare you not to devour the entire thing on the way to your destination.

Eating or Drinking on the Go

Gao Jing / Xinhua via Getty Images

Speaking of eating or drinking on the go, Parisians don't really do it. Again, food and beverages are meant to be enjoyed and ingested slowly — not in a rush, over your computer, or on the metro. The only thing I've ever seen people eating on the street while walking is a sandwich or baguette (likely because it's hot — and yes you can still call it a baguette colloquially even if you order a tradition ). Coffee is rarely ordered to-go or had en route; even eating apples or bananas on the street may cause people to scoff. And while there are certain dos and don'ts at the table, too — like proper ways to cut cheese or pour wine — Parisians are ultimately an international bunch, so if you want to eat a hamburger or slice of pizza with your hands while they cut theirs with a fork and knife, go ahead.

Touching Anything Without Asking

When it comes to getting handsy, just don't. Or, as the French say, ne touchez pas ! At food markets, it's best to ask before you grab something. The same rule applies at any of the weekend brocantes (flea markets) dotting neighborhood streets. Many of the items for sale are valuable and fragile, so it's better to catch the seller's attention and point rather than caressing the porcelain salt and pepper set like it's already yours.

Buying a Weeklong Pass and Throwing Away Metro Tickets

There's a range of metro ticket options available, including single-journey paper tickets and extended-use passes that you can reload.

If you plan on sticking with the paper tickets, it's important to keep your used ticket until you exit the station at your destination. You may be tempted to throw it away immediately, but the metro is highly monitored and you will get fined if you don't have a ticket to show that you paid for your ride. That said, many popular Parisian sites are so close together that you may want to walk and enjoy the attractions along the way. Unless you're here for an extended stay or will be commuting to and from a specific place regularly, don't bother buying a weeklong pass.

Hailing a Taxi in the Middle of the Street

If you're not up for walking or taking the metro, car services are everywhere — and that includes old-school taxis. (Official taxis say "Taxi Parisien" or "G7" on the vehicle.) There are designated taxi stands from which you can hop in and go. That said, Uber is widely used, so you can also order one from wherever you are. Fares range depending on the destination, but rates from the airport are always the same: From Charles de Gaulle, it's €56 for a Taxi Parisien to the Right Bank and €65 to the Left Bank; from Orly, it's €36 to the Left Bank and €44 to the Right Bank.

Related Articles

Top 13 things you can only do in Paris

Jun 17, 2024 • 12 min read

From dining on the Seine in a floating restaurant, to finding your favorite view of the Eiffel Tower, here are the best things to do in Paris © Neirfy / Shutterstock

Rooksana Hossenally is one of the authors of the new  Lonely Planet Paris guidebook . Here she shares her suggestions for the top things to do in Paris.

Paris has retained its place as the leading city destination in the world, according to Euromonitor International’s latest report , and it’s not hard to see why. Being a Paris local, I may be biased, but the French capital really does have it all, from centuries-old architecture and fascinating history to dynamic food and art scenes and a multicultural population pushing the boundaries of creativity.

What really draws crowds, though, are the things you can only do in Paris. From Michelin-star dining on the River Seine to flea-market shopping on the outskirts of the city, here are some of the top things to do on your next visit to Paris.

1. Have dinner on the Seine imagined by Michelin-star chefs

The range of dinner cruises on the Seine is overwhelming and it can be hard to choose between them. If you want to splash out, failsafe options include the floating restaurants led by the three-Michelin-star chefs Frédéric Anton and Alain Ducasse.

For a more intimate experience, go for the Don Juan II , overseen by Frédéric Anton. Belonging to the Yachts de Paris , the restaurant only has a handful of tables but has itself earned a Michelin star under Anton's leadership. Inside, mahogany paneling, thick carpets and opulent Pierre Frey fabrics give the space a homely feel. The boat leaves at sundown, and guests get to gaze out at Paris’ most magical highlights, from Notre Dame Cathedral to the Eiffel Tower lit by hundreds of little lights, as they tuck into a five-course seasonal menu, with highlights such as creamy stracciatella with lashings of caviar, and fleshy langoustine.

The other, livelier option is a table on board the shiny-steel-and-glass Ducasse sur Seine , which takes the same route and serves four- to six-course menus designed in conjunction with Alain Ducasse.

You can go up on deck on both boats, which is the best spot for watching the Eiffel Tower dazzle on the hour.

Planning tip: Do make reservations as far in advance as possible as both dinner cruises tend to get booked up. The ports can be tricky to find, especially when you’re not familiar with the quays, so allow for plenty of time to arrive because the cruises won't wait.

2. Enjoy a picnic with a view of Notre-Dame

Notre-Dame Cathedral is (rightfully) a major highlight in all the guidebooks, but it has become a victim of overtourism. The interiors are beautiful, but if you don't want to queue up to visit, you can see it from a different perspective instead.

Pack a picnic – perhaps a baguette, salted butter, ham and cheeses – and set up on the small stretch of the Seine riverbank west of the Port de Montebello. From here, you can see the cathedral’s wooden lattice structure known as the “forest” because it was made using oak trees. Before the roof was destroyed in the 2019 fire, it was one of the oldest frameworks in Paris and it is slowly being rebuilt. The 16 statues of the Apostles and Evangelists, which were staggered on the roof of the cathedral, eerily looking down from above, were spared from the fire and will be replaced in time for the Olympics.

Planning tip: As with any outdoor activity, make sure to check the weather conditions before you put together your picnic and set off.

3. Renew your appreciation for croissants

Croissants might be an everyday staple in France, but the painstaking work that goes into making the buttery viennoiseries  (breakfast baked goods) is sometimes taken for granted. However, after taking a croissant-making class at the Seine-side La Cuisine Paris cooking school , I learned that it takes several days to make croissants. They have no less than 81 layers of pastry and butter that are lovingly kneaded, delicately rolled together and plaited before they can go in the oven. That was just one of many interesting facts we learned from taking the class, making it a novel way of getting to know about French food and culture.

Planning tip: Book in advance as the classes are very popular. La Cuisine also does gift vouchers, which could make good presents for friends and family traveling to Paris in the near future.

4. Dive into Paris’ contemporary art scene with your own guide

Swap Paris’ overcrowded museums for some gallery hopping across the city, from the chic Marais to bohemian Belleville. It’s here that you’ll catch much of the art scene’s latest emerging talent and you won’t need to queue – in fact you’ll often get the chance to be alone in a room to take in the works. If you’re lucky, you might even get to meet the artists as they stop by to check in on their show.

If you don’t know where to start, get in touch with Paris art guide Alexandra Weinress , who will take you on a tailor-made tour in English or French, based on your interests. She can also include fun pit stops like a lunch at one of her favorite modern brasseries.

5. Explore a mass grave below ground

First and foremost, a word of warning that this isn’t for the fainthearted. But head 20m (66ft) below ground, and you'll enter the maze of galleries that make up the Catacombs of Paris , containing the remains of several million Parisians. During the 18th century, the rise in public health risks linked to the city’s cemeteries led to bones and skulls being exhumed and transferred here, arranged several meters high along the walls in underground galleries. Today, you can listen to an audio guide of the giant tomb, which brings to light yet another fascinating and offbeat part of Parisian history.

Planning tip: Be warned that the Catacombs are accessible via stairs only, including on the way out, which may not be suitable for some visitors.

6. Visit the largest museum on Earth

If you guessed the Museé du Louvre , then you guessed right. Yes, it may be firmly on the well-beaten tourist track, but it’s there for good reason, one being its size. Once the royal palace that housed none other than Napoleon, the Louvre has borne witness to centuries of history since it was founded in 1793. The largest museum in the world, it has almost 73,000 sq meters (785,765 sq ft) of exhibition space, 403 rooms, and 14.5km (9 miles) of corridors, where 33,000 artworks out of nearly 500,000 held by the museum are showcased. The works span several thousand years and continents, from the Americas to Asia, with the Egyptian wing being a favorite.

Head-spinning facts aside, for visitors who aren’t fans of the museum experience, it’s also possible to get a sense of the Louvre’s size, importance and beauty by walking the full length of its exterior from the rue de Rivoli to its interior courtyards, which are accessible for free throughout the day.

Planning tip: The museum is open until 9pm on Wednesdays and Fridays, when it tends to be less crowded. Like many museums in Paris, the Louvre is closed on Tuesdays. Check the latest timings on the Louvre website beforehand, as they can vary from season to season.

7. Travel back in time to bohemian Montmartre

Montmartre is a village with bohemian artistic roots. Perched on the highest hill of Paris, it's crowned by the gleaming white Sacré-Coeur Basilica , which opened in 1910. One of the last villages to join the arrondissements of Paris proper, it has retained its village atmosphere, with narrow lanes that wind down the hillsides, lined with stone houses, cafes, restaurants and boutiques. This was once a stomping ground for artists including Pablo Picasso, who would hole up at Le Bateau Lavoir – an artists’ residency that to this day seldom opens its doors to visitors – and party at the numerous nightlife spots.

The village was scattered with windmills that once ground flour and crushed grapes, giving rise to debauched nights in the area’s cabarets and guinguettes (popular outdoor taverns where there is dancing). Some of these have survived, like Chez Michou and Le Lapin Agile . Today, there is only one functioning windmill left, the Blute-Fin windmill , which is not accessible to the public. The Radet windmill you see as part of the Moulin de la Galette restaurant on rue Lepic once stood next to the Blute-Fin and was moved here in the 1920s. The Clos Montmartre vineyard still exists and there is an annual grape harvest festival in October, which is worth coming to the city for.

Planning tip: The best way to see Montmartre is by taking one of our itineraries in the latest Lonely Planet Paris guidebook . Alternatively, take the Promotrain or Montmartrain , which carry visitors around Montmartre to the main sites. It’s about an hour’s round trip, and they're especially good for people with restricted mobility, families with young children, and visitors short on time.

8. Soak up the magic of the Latin Quarter at sundown

The Latin Quarter is one of Paris’ oldest districts, with some parts dating back to Roman and Medieval times. Some vestiges from the Roman period are still visible to this day, like the Arènes de Lutèce , a former amphitheater, and the baths inside the Cluny Museum; and from the Middle Ages too, such as the Church of Saint Séverin as well as La Sorbonne  university, founded in 1253.

While the Latin Quarter is one of the most atmospheric areas of the city, it’s also one of the busiest. A way around that is to visit at sundown, when most visitors go back to their accommodations. One of the highlights of Paris in general is strolling at nightfall because the buildings are lit up in such a way that it brings out lots of small details you might miss in the daytime. The Latin Quarter is no exception. Stop at the Bombardier pub for a drink on the terrace, right across from the regal Panthéon , where some of the country’s greatest thinkers have been laid to rest, including Simone Veil and Victor Hugo.

9. Get under the surface of France’s food scene

France's food scene is a major draw for visitors, and in Paris there are over 80 fresh produce markets, hundreds of delis and bakeries, and thousands of restaurants and cafes to try. To really understand the locals’ love of food, the history behind its national importance, and to taste some local favorites too, book a tour with a guide.

Food guide Neil Kreeger ( [email protected] ) puts together bespoke itineraries based on your preferences and unpacks the mysteries behind every major French classic, from macarons and croque monsieur to the numerous cheeses and wines, as well as the more recent food trends. Experiences last about three hours in one neighborhood.

10. Ponder the lives of luminaries departed

A great way of seeing another side of Paris is through some of its beautiful cemeteries. The most famous is Père-Lachaise in the 20th arrondissement, which spans 44 hectares (108 acres) and contains no less than 70,000 burial plots. Created in 1804, it’s halfway between a leafy park and a huge shrine, where the style of the graves ranges from Gothic mini chapels to impressive Haussmannian burial chambers and great big mausoleums for whole families.

Some of the cemetery’s most famous “residents” include Oscar Wilde, Molière, Edith Piaf, Frédéric Chopin and Jim Morrison, whose graves are popular tourist spots for visitors from all over the world – three million a year descend on the cemetery, to be exact.

11. Find your favorite view of the Eiffel Tower

Of course, it’s obvious that Paris is the only place you can see the Eiffel Tower . But where’s the best vantage point? That’s the million-dollar question that could keep locals debating all night long. Catching glimpses of the Grande Dame from all over the city is half the fun. For visitors who want the real, full-size, unobstructed view, then the Trocadero is the number one spot. For a 360-degree view from the skies, then the Montparnasse Tower rooftop observation deck has to be it. And for more fleeting glimpses, catch the metro line 6 between the stops of Passy and Bir-Hakeim. Otherwise, there are several rooftop restaurants and bars where you can dine while gazing at Paris’ most popular monument, like at Le Printemps and Galeries Lafayette department stores, and many five-star hotel rooftop restaurants like the Peninsula’s L’Oiseau Blanc , the Cheval Blanc’s Tout-Paris or Le Jardin , or the Shangri-La ’s champagne garden in summer.

12. Resurrect the Phantom of the Opera

You can book to see a show at the Palais Garnier , Paris’ world-famous opera house. Built in 1875, it was named after Charles Garnier, its architect. It’s an Italian-style auditorium known for its celestial ceiling fresco by artist Marc Chagall, and can hold up to 2054 visitors in one sitting. Possibly the most famous opera house in the world, it was immortalized in the novel The Phantom of the Opera , keeping the legend of terrifying ghostly happenings alive.

It’s possible to visit the incredibly opulent opera house, with its heavily gilded interiors and grand marble staircases. You'll walk the maze-like corridors of dressing rooms and rehearsal spaces, behind and under the stage, and even see the underground lake that flows below the opera house.

Planning tip: There are a number of ways to  visit the opera house , including self-guided visits, guided tours, through an immersive game based on the story of the 1905 fictional thief and master of disguise Arsène Lupin, and via games for children.

13. Lose yourself in the world’s biggest flea market

While it is true that most of Paris' blockbuster sights are found within the city center, it’s worth venturing a little further afield  to visit St-Ouen flea market, the Puces de St-Ouen . One of the biggest markets in the world, it’s actually made up of 15 markets selling all sorts of wares, from antique jewelry to furniture, clothing and records. Hidden in the markets are also restaurants and cafes that make great pit stops to sit and watch life go by. Start on rue des Rosiers in St-Ouen, which isn’t in Paris proper, and wander through the markets that sprawl out on either side in warehouse spaces. You could easily spend a whole day exploring.

This article was first published Jul 1, 2019 and updated Jun 17, 2024.

Explore related stories

May 23, 2024 • 7 min read

(Warning: this article will make you want to book a trip.)

Feb 29, 2024 • 12 min read

Jan 10, 2024 • 5 min read

Nov 13, 2023 • 5 min read

Sep 20, 2023 • 3 min read

Apr 13, 2023 • 8 min read

Feb 27, 2023 • 15 min read

Jan 2, 2023 • 12 min read

Sep 2, 2022 • 10 min read

Jan 28, 2022 • 3 min read

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Paris Travel Tips: Things To Know Before Visiting Paris

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

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

General travel tips for Paris

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

2. Don’t Skimp on Travel Insurance

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

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

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

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

3. Don’t visit only the famous landmarks

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

5. Choose your accommodation in the central districts of Paris

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

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

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

6. Book your Hotel/Apartment rental way in advance

Courtesy of Hotel Audran / Booking.com

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

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

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

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

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

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

7. Take advantage of free museums

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

10. Try to dress like Parisians

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

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

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

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

11. Pack the right clothes for Each season

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

13. Learning a little French goes a long way

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

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

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

Some of the French words you can learn include;

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

14. Paris is not just romance and glamour

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

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

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

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

15. Check the opening hours for attractions before you visit

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

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

16. Create an itinerary but be open to adjusting it

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

18. Explore Paris on Foot

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

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

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

19. Carry Comfortable Walking shoes to Paris

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

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

20. Try exploring Paris on a bike

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

22. Carry your student id

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

23. Refrain from shopping at every shop you see

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

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

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

24. Do not speak too loud

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

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

25. Explore Some of the beautiful parks in Paris

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

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

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

26. Plan alternative activities to do in case it rains

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

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

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

27. Be prepared for the rain

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

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

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

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

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

29. Or stay for the sunset

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

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

30. Beware That Most Things close on Sunday

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

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

Tips for Paris Travel: Food & Restaurants

31. take a food tour while in paris.

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

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

32. Try as much French food as you can

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

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

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

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

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

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

34. Make reservations at restaurants ahead of time

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

36. Drink tap water instead of buying bottled one

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

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

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

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

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

37. Request for Tap Water at Restaurants too

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

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

Travel tips for Paris Transporation

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

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

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

39. Renting A Car In Paris Is A Bad Idea

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

43. You can also download the Bonjour RATP app

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

45. Make city mapper your friend

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

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

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

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

Money Tips for Traveling in Paris

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

48. Always carry a few coins for public toilets

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

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

Safety Travel Tips in Paris

49. look out for paris travel scams.

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

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

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

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

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

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

50. Be Aware Of Pickpockets

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

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

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

Final Thoughts on the Best Paris Travel Tips

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sharing is caring!

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

Similar Posts

Is The Paris Museum Pass Worth It? (A Detailed Paris Museum Pass Review)

Have you been asking yourself questions like “is the Paris museum pass worth it?” as you prepare for your trip to Paris? Then this detailed guide will give you all the answers! “Is the Paris Museum Pass worth it?” “Can…

How to Visit The Grand Mosque of Paris (History + Practical Tips)

Want to visit the Grand mosque of Paris but not sure how to plan your visit? Then this article will help you! If there is one place you can’t miss while visiting the 5th arrondissement of Paris is the Grand…

Luxembourg Gardens in Paris: 14 Things To Do (+ History & Practical Tips)

Planning to visit the Luxembourg Gardens in Paris? This article will show you everything you need to know from its history and what to do to practical tips! Nestled in the heart of Paris’s Left Bank between the Latin Quarter…

Stunning Views From the Eiffel Tower (Climbing Tips, Photo Diary +FAQs)

Planning to visit the Eiffel Tower but want to get a sneak peek of what you’ll get? This post will give you tips plus photos of the views from the Eiffel Tower! The Eiffel Tower is no doubt the most…

30 Paris Skip The Line Tickets: Save Time With these Paris Fast Track Tickets

Looking for tickets that will help you save time while at Paris’ popular attractions? I’ve gathered a list of the best Paris skip the line tickets so that you also save time while looking for them. I dread waiting! I…

How to Plan The Perfect Picnic in Paris

Want to go on a Parisian picnic but not sure how to plan one? This post will give you simple steps to planning the perfect picnic in Paris. A picnic in Paris! It has always been on my long list…

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

• What NOT to do in Paris -23 (costly) Paris Mistakes you need to avoid!

When deciding on what to do in Paris, it is also essential to know what NOT to do in Paris as well. It’s a part of travel planning that is all too often overlooked.

In fact, not a week goes by without that someone in my Facebook community ( join here, it’s free!) reports of Metro fines, expensive taxi fares , or other drawbacks that they experienced during their time in Paris.

Most of these issues could have been avoided if they had read this article before traveling to Paris.

I live in Paris for more than 16 years, and there is not a single rookie Paris mistake I haven’t done. Some only cost me time, others comfort, and not a few of them quite a lot of money. 

Is it the first time in Paris? Make sure to read these articles as well:

• 21 Simple Ways to Save Money in Paris
• Scams in Paris! How to avoid the most common cons .
• 70+ Free & Fun Things to do in Paris

CHECKLIST for your Paris Trip

✔ Hotel booked?

• Budget: Hotel France Albion (8.6)
• Midrange: Hôtel des Arts (9.6)
• Upscale: Millésime Hôtel (9.2)
• Luxury: La Demeure Montaigne (9.1)
• My Favorite: Hôtel Monte Cristo

✔ Tickets booked?

• Eiffel Tower ( book here )
• Paris City Pass ( book here )
• Louvre ( book here )
• Arc de Triomphe ( book here )
• Hop On Hop Off Bus ( book here )

Paris Travel Tips

• 🚨 Get Travel Insurance
• Buy your SIM card in advance
• Get a Travel Adapter
• Book your airport transfer

Fun Activities

• Explore the Covered Arcades
• Discover the quaint Bookstores
• Find Paris Hidden Cocktail Bars
• Take an easy Day Trip by train

Read this article and know it better. Learn how to avoid the most common Paris pitfalls and which Paris mistakes you easily can prevent.

Enough of talking, here are my ultimate list with Paris Mistakes to avoid and what not to do in Paris:

 #1 Wait in long lines at the Eiffel Tower

→ Book your ticket to the Eiffel Tower Summit directly here

The Eiffel Tower is one of the world’s most-visited landmarks and accordingly are the queues. If you did not book your ticket in advance , you either won’t get tickets at all or you will queue for hours, without guaranteed entrance.

If you want to visit the Eiffel Tower, you have to make arrangements ahead of time.

Where to book your Eiffel Tower Tickets?

Most commonly, you can buy your Eiffel Tower Tickets at the official sales point or through a 3rd party website like getyourguide.com . Both are legit.

If your trip is weeks ahead, you likely still can get your hands on cheaper tickets directly on the Eiffel Tower website .

If your travel dates are during high season and not far ahead, you can check GetYourGuide . Even though the tickets are more expensive, you have the big benefit of a 24h cancellation and refund policy . This is useful if the weather is bad and the top of the tower has its head in the clouds because it’s reducing your sight to zero.

• Eiffel Tower Summit Ticket – book here

• Eiffel Tower 2nd Floor Ticket – book here

• Eiffel Tower & Seine Cruise – book bundle here

Can you book Eiffel Tower Tickets for the day?

Theoretically, yes. However, this is where the queuing starts. If you want to buy Eiffel Tower tickets on the spot, expect to queue for 2 hours or longer .

#2 Overpack 

→ Need tips on packing? Read our seasonal Paris guides  with practical tips

Paris is the fashion capital, and it’s just very tempting to bring many outfits. But traveling with an oversized suitcase is a mistake – especially if you plan to use public transportation .

Most Metro and train stations are not barrier-free . This means: you have to carry your luggage up and down the stairs, and you can trust me here: there are LOTS of stairs.

Public transportation is often packed, especially around rush hour. You easily run into difficulties squeezing yourself AND your luggage into a train. Save yourself from stress and travel light.

My Tip : Book a private driver to pick you up at the airport in Paris . You can arrange your ride in advance, you don’t have to worry about transportation after a long flight because your driver will pick you up at the gate. Take a look at the quotes here.

One more Tip:  You will probably shop a bit, right?  For example, famous French pharmacy products !  Best to have some free space in your luggage! Alternatively – and that’s what I always do – you can bring an additional foldable duffle bag to be more flexible.

#3 Rent a Car or Taxi instead of taking the Metro

→ Read our complete Metro guide to know which ticket you need

I know that Public transportation can be intimidating, but I promise you, once you are in Paris it’s easy as pie. The ticket machines are multilingual; if you stay in inner Paris, the base ticket (ticket+) is enough. It is although:

• more environment-friendly
• stress-free

than taking a taxi or renting a car. Talking about rental cars, this is something you should absolutely NOT do in Paris. You will spend your day stuck in traffic and pay horrendous sums for parking if you find parking in the first place.

Renting a car is one of the things you should not do in Paris!

#4 Book a Hotel in the Suburbs to save Money 

→ find affordable Hotels in central Paris here

Even though there is nothing really wrong with staying outside the city limits, it’s just not as if you’d be staying in Paris. If you see yourself in a typical Parisian setting with little cafés, cute streets, and cosmopolitan flair – then you better take a hotel in Paris. You won’t regret it, especially when visiting Paris for the first time.

If you are on a budget but don’t want to miss out, I recommend checking my post about the best budget hotels in Paris because you don’t need to spend much to stay in exciting locations .

If you are a bit overwhelmed by the more than 2000 hotels, not to mention countless Airbnb, I recommend checking my hotel guides . All hotels I propose are in great locations, close to sights and most important: in safe areas! No need to worry anymore about areas to avoid in Paris!

What are the Best Hotels in Paris?

For more input, maybe those posts will help you through the jungle of Parisian Hotels and offer you some guidance:

• Find the best district to stay in Paris’ neighborhood guide 
• Paris on a budget:  the 5 best Ibis Hotels in Paris
• Family Hotels in Paris: Were to stay in Paris with kids 
• Romantic budget trip to Paris: Hotels for couples
• Montmartre: Hotels for every budget!
• Eiffel Tower Hotels:  14 Hotels with stunning Eiffel Tower views- for (almost) every budget!
• Hotels with Balcony:  Top 14 Hotels in Paris with a Balcony

#5 Toss your Metro Ticket

→ Read our complete Metro guide to know more

I read literally every week a post of someone who goes like this: “I bought a ticket but got fined anyway, they ripped us off knowing we’re tourists!”

A horrible feeling, undoubtedly. But what happened? 

Metro users might experience this when they either bought the wrong ticket or lost/trashed it before leaving the station. It is not a Paris scam, you just did not use the ticket correctly.

Even though buying the wrong ticket can be seen as an honest mistake, you’ll still be fined when controlled. No need to argue, explain or cry, it’s not working.

But there are some simple guidelines on how to avoid getting fined:

• purchase an adult ticket for everyone from the age of 10 (means: if your child is 10 years old, they need an adult ticket)
• purchase a child ticket for every kid from the age of 4 (means: if your child is 4 years old, you need a child ticket, you won’t get fined if you purchase an adult ticket, but starting from 4, kids don’t ride free)
• only buy tickets from official vending machines and NOT from vendors offering you a cheaper price (those tickets are often child tickets, and you guessed right: you’ll be fined). It’s a popular tourist scam by the way – read more about Paris tourist scams !
• Keep in mind that the base tickets are only valid in Paris and direct suburbs.
• If you bought a week pass with a line to write your name on, do it. Otherwise, you’ll be fined
• DO NOT TOSS YOUR TICKET before leaving the station

To Reiterate: do not throw away your Metro ticket! It’s one of the most important things when it comes to the question of what not do to in Paris!

Just do not throw it away . Not after you passed the turnstile, not when being in the Metro or RER, and not before you left the station at your destination. As a passenger, you are obliged to carry the proof of purchase a.k.a. ticket at all times with you while using the service.

Depending on the station, you might even need it for leaving the station. If you get caught without a ticket, you’ll be fined. No exceptions.

If for some reason you are not having a valid ticket, and you get fined, it is not a scam if they demand the amount in cash right away. You can see the amounts here .

For more information on how to use the Parisian public transport system, check our guide on the Parisian Metro

#6 Travel to Paris without Insurance

Before traveling to Paris, make sure that you have Travel Insurance! If you are not covered, for example by your credit card company , make sure that you take precautions.

#7 Get Scammed (too easily)

→ Read this article to know about the most common Paris Scams

You know the drill: if you arrive somewhere beautiful, you can be sure that scammers and thieves have been there before you.

Paris is, unfortunately, no exception to this vexatious matter. The basic rule is to be wary – in public transport and generally in crowds. But also if someone approaches you for whatever random reason, wants to sell tickets on the streets, or tries to knot friendship bracelets around your wrist.

But don’t get paranoid, either. I am confident that you’ll be all fine if you just take care of your belongings and know about the Paris Scams to watch out for.

I have been living in Paris for more than 16 years, and in all those years I had my wallet stolen once: When I stupidly placed it ON my bag while trying to navigate a stroller through the metro’s turnstile. Learned a life lesson there.

Most common scams in Paris

• pickpockets – the only thing you can do is to take care and to keep your things hidden. Don’t get distracted even if you’re in a busy or stressful situation. You also can travel with an anti-theft backpack
• Friendship bracelet scams – someone approaches you and ties a bracelet around your wrists to then ask you for money- that’s a common scam around the Sacre Coeur.. just keep walking, ignore them
• signature scam – it’s often a group of girls that ask you to sign a petition and while you listen and signs someone else might rob you – I’ve seen this often around Notre Dame. Ignore them, keep on walking. Don’t engage in a conversation.
• to be on the safe side, I strongly advise you not to use your phone on the Metro , even though it might be tempting and you’re bored. It happens regularly that someone grabs a phone and runs off with it just when the Metro doors are closing
• A new thing are TukTuks – they are waiting in front of popular sights for clients, with a price tag in their window. When you arrive at your destination, they claim the price is per person, not per party. It’s best to avoid them altogether. 

#8 Visit only the Highlights ( Paris Mistake classic)

→ check our list of hidden gems and secret Paris attractions

Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, Montmartre, the Champs Élysées… those are the sights you absolutely MUST see when visiting Paris –  But don’t make the mistake to stop there. Plan for some extra time to discover  Paris off the beaten paths .

You don’t need to find Paris’ most hidden street or Paris’ smallest Café to discover the unusual. It is already enough to sit down in a café that is a bit off the tourist area and enjoy some people-watching . Soak up the atmosphere. I’ll promise you to see more of the real Paris in this short time than a walk up the tower could ever grant you.

Are you seeking some ideas of non-touristy things to do in Paris? Get inspired by these articles:

• Belleville – discover Paris quirky village
• Secret bars in Paris – discover Paris’ speakeasies !
• The Human Zoo of Paris – a dark secret uncovered!

You find even more ideas in our dedicated  Paris insider tip section !

#9 Visit the Louvre without Audio Guide

→ buy tickets for the Louvre here and book the Audio Guide when visiting

Really. Unless you are an art and Louvre expert or a tourist guide, don’t miss out on this wonderful tool. I know the reflex to immediately back off and say “thanks, I am good” if someone tries to sell me a little extra.

Usually, it’s indeed just the extra that pulls the bucks off your pocket. But this does NOT apply to the official (!) Audioguide of the Louvre.

Editors Tip : Some tour operators offer to skip the line tickets bundled with an audio guide. Those are in most cases not the official guides from the Louvre and many visitors are not exactly satisfied as the content isn’t great.

I strongly advise you to take the official Audio Guide from the Louvre and purchase the ticket in advance online to skip at least the ticket queue.

Admission is free for all visitors under 18 and everyone under 26 living in the European Economic Area (eligibility proof required) – click here to know which museums are free to visit for everyone! 

Up for a sneak preview of the most  beautiful paintings in the Louvre?

 #10 Wear uncomfortable shoes ( Paris Mistake #1 )

→Click here to see our guide on the best walking shoes for Paris!

Paris is THE fashion metropolis and if you’re following just a wee bit what’s going on catwalks and fashion week, you know there are heels all around. However, what’s happening during fashion week, stays in fashion week. As soon as it’s over, Parisians slip back into their comfy shoes : sneakers and flats.

Check our post about the best walking shoes for Paris with a selection of shoes that I see frequently in Paris. Trust me, you can’t do anything wrong by going comfy.

#11 Eat close to the St. Michel Fountain

→Read our food guide to know what to eat in Paris

There are a trillion restaurants in Paris, choose one that is not close to St.Michel or any other tourist hotspot. You can simply walk 5 minutes in any direction and the quality will improve.

When mentioning St.Michel, I am talking especially about Rue de la Harpe. It looks cozy and Parisian, the food is cheap (a 3-course dinner for 12€!!) and the menu is written in English, German, Spanish, Japanese, and Hindi. It might sound like a pretty good deal. But just do not go there .

It is the most touristic place in Paris and one where you can be sure to get the worst food for the price. Tourist restaurants are among the things to avoid in Paris.

If you want to eat out on a budget, have lunch in a traditional Brasserie. Lunch menus are usually cheaper than dinners if this matters. For 12€ – 16€, you get at least a Starter/Main or Main/Dessert.

Budget Traveler? Browse through these articles:

If you are unsure which place is good to have lunch, seek people who seem like being on lunch break. If the food was bad, people would have their breaks elsewhere 🙂

If you’re not up only for lunch but a whole range of different foods from Paris and culinary highlights, a food tour will be fun (and yummy!). Click here to treat yourself  ♥

#12 Forget a Travel Adapter

→ I am using this travel adapter for years already, and it survived many trips

Depending on where you are coming from, you might find a surprise when trying to plug your devices into the power socket. They don’t fit!

Europe runs on Type C sockets and has furthermore different voltage than the US, for example. Depending on what devices you are using, you might want to get rather a Voltage Converter . Smartphones, Tablets, and Laptops have usually an integrated voltage converter, however, hairdryers and such often don’t. Read more about this in our article on Paris Packing Tips .

#13 Skip the Seine River Cruise

→Click here  for Seine cruise schedules and bookings!

This stands probably in big contrast to the trend to discover Paris off the beaten path and not fall for too many touristic activities. Every so often, it’s worth throwing those principles overboard and just doing what’s good.

Taking a Cruise on the Seine is one of those things that’s so worth it . It is, of course, touristic and maybe even cheesy. But you almost can’t have a nicer view of Paris than from a boat.

It thoroughly changes the perspective on everything you explored already in Paris by feet and shows you many things you have not discovered yet.

Plus: it’s even a quite inexpensive activity to do! Read our full review here !

#14 Tip your Travel Budget Awa y

No matter how rude it might feel to you, how good the service was, or how friendly the waiter. You don’t need to tip in Paris . Not even if a waiter tells you that you are expected to tip.

Waiters are earning a living wage in France, just like everyone else. However, it is polite to tip and in many cases even appropriate . Especially when the waiter is getting out of their way for you.

Read my complete tipping guide here , for more detailed information on tipping in Paris.

You can tip, though. It is always appreciated and certainly nice. Everything over 10% is absolutely over the top and very unusual. As a rule of thumb, and only if you WANT to tip:

• up to 5€ for a bill less than 50€
• up to 10€ for a bill up to 100€
• 5-10% from 100€ up

My Parisian take on it: I leave a few coins on the table if I happen to have some. If I just had a beer somewhere, it could be as little as 50 cents or nothing at all. I easily leave 1 or 2 Euros when having an easy lunch, but I don’t feel bad if I leave nothing. Many Parisians don’t tip at all.

#15 Visit Popular Sights in the Afternoon

One Paris mistake that is easily made is to schedule the popular sights for the afternoon. As a rule of thumb: The later the busier. If you are traveling during the high season, it will be busy all day round, but there is still a significant difference regarding crowds when visiting the Louvre or the Château first thing in the morning.

You should schedule especially the following sights for an early morning visit:

• The Louvre – buy tickets
• Eiffel Tower – buy tickets
• Château de Versailles – buy tickets
• Catacombs – buy tickets
• Sainte Chapelle – buy tickets
• Arc de Triomphe – buy tickets

#16 Drape your Bag over a Chair 

You should NEVER leave your bag unattended, and draping it over the back of your chair qualifies as such. Don’t put it on the ground, either, or on the chair next to you, especially if you are sitting outside. If you want to keep your valuables, that’s one of the most important things not to do in Paris.

If you do have to place it there, make sure the handle goes around the leg of your chair, so nobody can snatch it.

 #17 Paris Mistake: Pay for Water

“Can you drink tap water in Paris?” It is one of the most frequently asked questions from people from all over the world that are coming to Paris.

In short: Y es, you can drink tap water in Paris and most Parisians (if not say all) are doing it every day.

Free Water in Restaurants

If you go out for dinner, do it like the locals and ask for a “carafe d’eau” ( pronounced: “karaff doh” )  instead of buying expensive bottled water. The waiter will bring you a pitcher of tap water that is free of charge, and absolutely safe to drink.

Maybe you’ll notice a faint chloral smell or taste, but don’t worry about it, it is spotless and safe! To get additional information on drinking water in Paris, take a look at the paper given out by the town hall.

Free Water from the Wallace Fountains

Bring your own bottle and use the publicly accessible water resources: Paris has a huge number of fountains that provide free potable water   and is a paradise in this regard for everyone who tries to avoid plastic waste – and who is traveling on a budget !

#18 Enter the Metro before people exit

Just don’t do it. It’s annoying. Honestly, there are many Parisians that do not follow this rule. like everywhere else. But just don’t be one of those people. (Oh, and if there happen to be musicians on your train, don’t clap at their performance unless you want everyone to roll their eyes at you 😉 )

#19 Paris Mistake: Don’t say “Bonjour”

→Click here for tips on how to brush up your French in no time!

The French own the reputation of not speaking any other language than French and if they do, they refuse to use it. For no apparent reason. They are also supposedly rude and unfriendly. 

While I honestly have to admit that some Frenchies might be a little special in this regard, there are tons of people who are happy to speak English with you and won’t even make a fuss about it. Most people are also very nice.

The “Bonjour” misunderstanding 

In French culture, it is customary to start EVERY conversation with a greeting . Be it in restaurants and shops, the bakery, or when approaching a clear to ask a question or for directions.

You need to start your encounter by saying “Bonjour”. If you don’t do so, you come along as an a** and rude, and the French will be offended and be as rude back to you as you have been to him in the first place.

And surely will not speak a word of English with you or do any effort whatsoever.

However, if you respect this basic rule of the French way of communicating, you will meet plenty of people that are eager to talk to you in English. If they hear as little as a “Bonjour”, it can be a real magical door opener .

#20 Don’t make dinner reservations

If you are interested in food or looking to celebrate a special occasion in Paris, you surely checked already which restaurant would suit the occasion and your taste.

If I can give you one piece of advice: Reserve a table , grab it while it’s available. Even if it’s just a normal restaurant and not a Michelin Star place – chances are they are booked out either way, and they’ll turn you down. A lesson Emily from Emily in Paris learned quickly.

If you know your place, book ! You can book a lot of restaurants at La Fourchette – the french version of The Fork – ONLINE – WITHOUT SPEAKING FRENCH and if you’re lucky, you get a nice reduction as the cherry on the cake.

Do you want to know what to eat in Paris ? Click here to check our Paris Food Guide! 

#21 Take a ride in a TukTuk

For a few years, TukTuk drivers are waiting outside popular sights and offering their services to tourists.  I am NOT saying that they are all scammers, and you should not take a ride with them (maybe I do mean that, though). But you have to be cautious and make sure you and the driver agree on the conditions before you take a seat in their vehicle.

The returns I got so far about these drivers were 100% negative. Typically, they claim AFTER the ride, that the indicated price is per person, not per group.

If you REALLY love the idea of a TukTuk ride, enjoy. Otherwise, it is certainly one of the things not to do in Paris, and I would even say it’s one of the bad things about Paris.

#22 carry your wallet in your back pocket

You might say you always wear it there and nothing ever happened, but you are challenging your luck big time. Especially when using public transportation. If you are not having an inside pocket to store your valuables safely, I recommend getting a small sling back that you can carry over or under your jacket.

#23 Don’t plan your Paris Trip

I fully understand that you want to stay flexible and not stress out about schedules while being on vacation. But when it comes to admission tickets for sights and activities in Paris, you simply have to reserve your spots in advance because  they sell out quickly.

The Eiffel Tower, but also the Catacombs, and the Louvre are usually sold-out weeks ahead of time.

I had to learn this the hard way as well – I wanted to organize a spontaneous mom-and-son day to the Eiffel Tower and there were absolutely no tickets available for the 10 days to come! (you can purchase them online here )

Book your Attraction Tickets in Time!

You can buy your tickets in advance   here or click directly on the landmarks below. I added direct links to the most popular sights for your convenience:

• Eiffel Tower book here (no fast past on site)
• Louvre Museum Book here
• Arc de Triomphe Book here
• Musée d’Orsay Book here
• Catacombs Book here
• Château de Versailles Book here
• Sainte Chapelle Book here

Good to know: most activities booked with Get your Guide (click here to know more) can be canceled free of charge (!) up to 24h before!

You also need to plan ahead and pre-purchase your tickets if you plan to get “skip the line” or “fast pass” tickets – most sights are not selling them on-site, and you have to book them in advance with a tour operator. But there is still room for flexibility if your plans change, many tickets can be canceled up to 24h before , free of charge! Check here for tickets for the most popular sights

That’s it, you know all my pro tips now. Browse a bit around my page to get insider information on where to eat, where to stay, and what to see.

Parisienne since 2006 🩷

Expert in: Parisian Life &

French Culture, Travel

Planning, Crochet & Food and Drinks

Join me on Facebook for updates and news about Paris.

Must Have Paris Travel Essentials

International Travel Adapter

Order here from Amazon

Portable Charger for your Phone

For any clarifications about Paris or if you need some advice and how to plan your trip, don’t hesitate to reach out!  I created a Facebook group for this matter, and I am available to help you out! Click here to join the Salut from Paris Facebook group !

PS: Check out these posts, they will help you plan your trip to Paris

• 20 Arrondissements in Paris (Quick Guide + Map)
• Paris hidden gems: 80+ well kept secrets you shouldn’t miss
• 14 Hotels with stunning Eiffel Tower views- for (almost) every budget!
• Your Perfect 2 Days in Paris! Itinerary & Insider Tips
• 5 ways to get from Charles de Gaulle airport to Paris – THE complete guide!
• Scams in Paris! How to avoid the most common cons

Pin it now – find it back later!

Similar Posts

Vanves Flea Market – A Hidden Gem for Vintage Fans

ETIAS Travel Authorization: Do You Need It for Paris?

Paris Essentials: Top 10 Picks and Their Unique Alternatives

98+ Exciting Hidden Gems: non-touristy things to do in Paris

Belleville, Paris: Between Artists & Locals (Guide & Tips)

Visit the Eiffel Tower – everything you need to know!

10 comments.

I plan to visit Paris for the first time next year for our 40th wedding anniversary. My wife is disabled and has to use a wheelchair to get around. How easy is it to get around? Is there anything I need to know about visiting some of the sites?

Honestly, Paris is not the most barrier free city, unfortunately. Public transportation is pretty difficult as many stations are not having an elevator. I found this map online, maybe it helps 🙂 https://parisbytrain.com/map-paris-wheelchair-reduced-mobility-accessibility-metro-rer-bus-tram/

For more information regarding the sites, you can also check here https://wheelchairtravel.org/paris/attractions-sights/ ..

I hope you two have a great wedding anniversary and won’t meet too many barriers! 🙂

We will be in Paris for the first time in October. I have been checking out lots of information online and came across your blog. Wow! By far the most formidable, realistic and useful lot of information. My husband and I will be travelling with our 13 year teen who is a fussy eater and your tips have given us some great planning tips.

Thank you 😊

Thank you for your kind words, Carmen! 🙂 I am really happy that my blog could help you planning your trip and I hope you and your family will have a fantastic time!

Hello from Memphis,Tennessee!

My family of six is traveling to Paris for the second week in January. We normally take a Disney World trip, but this year we found that Paris was going to be way less expensive and my teenagers got VERY excited about going abroad for the first time. I know it’s going to be freezing, but I was thinking about doing a single day at Disneyland Paris. (My family is THAT family that loves all things Disney) Do you think that it will way too cold and miserable?

Thank you so much!❤️

Hello Kimberly, I bet your kids are super excited! January can be of course very cold and it also could be raining.. but you can be lucky and be granted with loads of sunshine.. it’s hard to say really. But you can buy tickets for Disney on the day at the park, so it’s possible to take a last minute decision depending on your weather..

also, I have an article about activities you can do in Paris in Winter, in case you still need some activities for the cold and/or rainy days https://www.salutfromparis.com/Paris-in-winter/

either way, I wish you safe travels and the best of time in Paris :)+

Lena, thanks for your article, I agree with everything you said, especially public transportation. The information people were very polite to us and we never had anything but pleasant conversations with locals. Trying to speak French is very helpful. My Down’s syndrome son said “merci beaucoup” and the waitress at the cafe loudly proclaimed”I love him!” I would add that the Seine cruise, which is another one of my favs, was great for kids and it was so restful. Also, the dark interior of Notre Dame allowed our grandson to nap as we strolled along quietly. One hindrance to a good experience that many Americans (including myself) travel in large groups and that makes seating at a cafe more difficult when you want to have that French cafe experience and when you are all trying to board the same metro train! We tried eating early which greatly helped. We used booking.com last minute and had an amazing floor(5 bedrooms!) of an apartment building and our concierge, Philippe , was so helpful. We will never forget that stay.

Thank you for taking the time to comment 🙂 I am happy to hear that you had a great time. It’s true, if you are a larger group, you can run into issues getting seated in a café or board the metro. I will definitely keep that in mind, thanks for pointing it out.

ready to go to paris!!;)

Comments are closed.

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.

Deals, Offers & Promo Codes in Europe

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.

See more Paris. Save more money.

Save €6 on your first booking with Headout when you use promo code: GOPARIS

EXPLORE NOW

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.

Be a smart traveler

The first to know about trending destinations, travel deals, tips and all things travel.

• Top Things to do
• Paris Tours
• Attractions
• Disneyland® Paris Tickets
• Eiffel Tower Tickets
• Louvre Museum Tickets
• Versailles Tickets
• Arc De Triomphe Tickets
• Orsay Museum Tickets
• Big Bus Paris Hop-On Hop-Off Tickets
• Crazy Horse Paris Tickets
• Moulin Rouge Paris Tickets
• Eurail Passes
• Sainte Chapelle Tickets
• Paris Pantheon Tickets
• Musee de l'Orangerie Tickets
• Parc Astérix Paris Tickets
• Opera Garnier Paris Tickets
• Invalides - Paris Army Museum Tickets
• Paris Catacombs Tour & Tickets
• Rodin Museum Tickets
• Walking Tours
• Guided Tours
• Hop-On Hop-Off Tours
• Theme Parks
• Water Parks
• Sightseeing Cruises
• Dinner Cruises
• Lunch Cruises
• Travel Guide
• Things to do
• Trip Planner
• Where to Eat
• Where to Stay
• Family Travel
• Festivals and Events
• 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.

Paris Neighborhoods Guide [2024]: Areas to Visit & Avoid!

If you're excited to explore Paris on your next trip, you've likely heard of how Paris neighborhoods are structured. Confused? I know, I was! Here's my complete guide on each of the arrondissements in Paris, including the top areas you should, and shouldn't, visit.

Pilot has covered the best places to stay in Paris, but what about the best Paris areas and neighborhoods to visit?

When you visit the city of love, you'll see, experience, and fall in love with the 20 arrondissements that make up the extraordinary french city.

Some areas are super touristy and perfect for visiting. In contrast, others are more residential and less interesting if you're trying to visit Paris. Regardless, I'm going to cover them all . Here's your ultimate guide to exploring Paris, uncovering all of the Paris arrondissements and what there is to do , stay, and explore there!

Let's start unraveling the seemingly complex structure that is Paris Arrondissements, and you'll soon be roaming Paris like a local Parisian!

But first, for those confused by the complexity of Paris arrondissements, I'll dissect just how the city of Paris is structured!

Before we get started, let me do a quick overview of the 20 neighborhoods, or arrondissements of Paris. I have included a more comprehensive list of the 20 arrondissements and their associated attractions further down below as well.

Much of the confusion comes from the fact that neighborhoods have different popular names associated with them. I'll try to keep it as simple as I can throughout: 

• 1st Paris Arrondissement: Lourve
• 2nd Paris Arrondissement: Bourse
• 3rd Paris Arrondissement: Temple
• 4th Paris Arrondissement: Hôtel-de-Ville
• 5th Paris Arrondissement: Panthéon
• 6th Paris Arrondissement: Luxembourg
• 7th Paris Arrondissement: Palais-Bourbon
• 8th Paris Arrondissement: Élysée
• 9th Paris Arrondissement: Opéra
• 10th Paris Arrondissement: Entrepôt
• 11th Paris Arrondissement: Popincourt
• 12th Paris Arrondissement: Reuilly
• 13th Paris Arrondissement: Gobelins
• 14th Paris Arrondissement: Observatoire
• 15th Paris Arrondissement: Vaugirard
• 16th Paris Arrondissement: Passy
• 17th Paris Arrondissement: Batignolles-Monceau
• 18th Paris Arrondissement: Butte-Montmartre
• 19th Paris Arrondissement: Buttes-Chaumont
• 20th Paris Arrondissement: Ménilmontant

Popular Paris Neighborhoods or Quartiers, Explained!

So, you know that Paris is divided into 20 arrondissements. Those are then further divided into quartiers.

Here's a brief overview of some of the most well-known quartiers to Parisians and travelers alike, before diving into my recommendations and guides for all neighborhoods!

Le Marais - LGBTQ+ Friendly (3rd & 4th Arrondissement)

Le Marais is well known for being home to the gay district in Paris and for its shopping. I feel it's trendy and hip, and you'll find several bumping bars and clubs to get your party on at night.

Le Marais is also home to Place des Vosges, and the Musée Picasso. I say this is a must-visit, especially for first-timers in Paris.

Montmartre - Home of the Sacre Coeur (18th Arrondissement)

Home to Sacre Coeur, this is the neighborhood that reflects the ambiance so many envision when I think of Paris. With its steep hills, cobblestone streets, and picturesque views, you'll find a romantic vibe that screams Paris.

Montmarte is the perfect quartier to be slightly away from the action while in the 18th arrondissement, but still have the picturesque sights.

Latin Quarter - Central & Budget-Friendly (5th Arrondissement)

Located on the Left bank of the Seine (in the 5th arrondissement), this centrally located neighborhood is home to Shakespeare & Co and Sorbonne University. As such, this is an excellent quartier for students and young travelers.

It's also one of the most central quartiers!

I find the energy of the local students inspiring. If you do too, you'll find bars, cafés, and plenty of nightlife perfect for budget travelers.

Saint-Germain-des-Prés - A Taste of Luxury (6th Arrondissement)

I'll admit it, sometimes I'm looking for luxury, and that drives me right to the sixth arrondissement. It's one of the more expensive neighborhoods in Paris to stay in, but its luxury boutiques and five-star hotels explain it. Here you'll find Café Flor (famous for more than just being in Emily in Paris I'm told), along with the Jardin Luxembourg.

Pigalle - Hip Nightlife Scene (9th & 18th Arrondissement)

On the border between the 9th and the 18th arrondissement, you'll find the quartier that houses the Moulin Rouge.

This is the nightlife neighborhood, also dubbed the Red Light District of Paris. I recommend you keep thatin mind if you like doing evening strolls.

Which Neighborhood Should You Visit in Paris?

It's impossible to pick the best quartiers/arrondissements/neighborhoods to visit. Depending on what you're trying to see, some will better suit your vibe than others. I decided to put them into specific traveler types to get you started.

Here are the best Paris neighborhoods to visit for each occasion and travel styles summarized for you:

Best Neighborhoods to Visit in Paris [by traveler's type]:

• For shopping : head to the 8th arrondissement, where you'll find the Champs - Elysées, and all the luxury stores along with it
• For partying : head to Le Marais in the 4th arrondissement, or Montmartre/Pigalle in the 18th arrondissement
• For bars and jazz : head to the Latin Quarter in the 5th arrondissement
• For the center of the action : head to the 1st (le premier) arrondissement. For iconic landmarks : head to the 7th arrondissement, home to the Eiffel Tower.
• For families : head to Montparnasse in the 14th arrondissement
• For couples : Stroll down Montmartre in the 18th arrondissement or Saint-Germain-des-Prés in the 6th arrondissement.
• For picturesque streets/sights : head to Saint-Germain-des-Prés in the 6th arrondissement or Passage des Panoramas in the 2nd arrondissment.
• For museum-lovers : Aside from the Lourve, check out the 4 Paris locations of the Frances Museum of Natural History , scattered throughout the city!

If you're short on time, I would consider getting on one of the hop-on hop-off busses in Paris to see it all!

Tip: if you're ever curious about what Paris arrondissement you're in, look at the street signs! There will be a number (it might be a roman numeral) that will indicate the number of the arrondissement.

Foodie Guide: Top Paris Neighborhoods for Good Food!

I'm not going to France and coming back hungry. I need to know where I'll eat well!

While you can, and should, indulge in French dishes in Paris in just about any neighborhood, some areas in Paris truly have exceptional restaurants.

If you want to treat your inner foodie like I do while in Paris, here are the Paris Neighborhoods for foodies to check out:

• Saint-Germain-des-Prés ( 6th arrondissement )
• Rue Montorgueil ( 2nd arrondissement ) - old stock market of Paris, a hidden gem for Foodies!
• Canal Saint-Martin ( 10th arrondissement )
• Latin Quarter ( 5th arrondissement ) - The perfect combination of affordable and delicious given that it's frequented by students!
• Le Marais (ample bars) ( 4th arrondissement )
• Oberkampf for coffee shops ( 11th arrondissement )

Neighborhoods & Places to Avoid in Paris!

While traveling through the districts of Paris seems great, I can hear you asking, is Paris safe for tourists? Yes, safety is the number one concern of most travelers, which is especially more important with solo travelers. So just how safe is the city of Paris?

Paris is generally a safe city to visit, especially during the day! The city is tourist-friendly, and if you exercise caution and be mindful of your surroundings, Paris is not dangerous at all. I think that if you are respectful and cautious, you can visit paris with no issues at all.

Tip: Be mindful of any protests or grèves during your visit!

That being said, there are areas, and quartiers, I feel you should be mindful of if you decide to visit as a tourist. This rings especially true if you're solo-traveling, not fluent in French, or not well-versed in wayfinding. This is even more important after the sun has set.

While there aren't any entire Parisian quartiers you should avoid, Here are the few areas inside these arrondissements in Paris to avoid in the evening : ‍

• 10th Arrondissement - Gare du Nord / Gare de l’Est
• 1st Arrondissement - Châtelet les Halles
• 19th Arrondissement - Northern areas, especially in the evening / Place Stalingrad
• 20th Arrondissement - Porte de Montreuil after dark.
• 16th Arrondissement - Bois de Boulogne

Here are some more information about the 2 arrondissements I'd like to point out:

19th Arrondissement

The 19th Arrondissement is amongst one of the most dangerous neighborhoods in Paris, with frequent crimes reported, known spots for drug trafficking, as well as other petty theft. I'd avoid this neighborhood, especially during the night, as a traveler. Place stalingrad especially is known to be the place drugs are dealt.

10th Arrondissement

While the arrondissement isn't dangerous in particular, there are certain places to avoid. In general, I'd avoid the district of Gare du Nord and north of the borough. While it's not a dangerous place to go, there's not much to explore for travelers anyway, so I'd avoid that area just to be safe.

General Reminders & Good-to-knows

I am certainly not saying you shouldn't be out at night in Paris, but these are simply some areas to avoid in Paris at night and if you do venture out, you should definitely exercise more caution. Same during the day. Keep in mind all of the areas I've mentioned aren't extremely dangerous by any means, but having traveled to Paris quite often, I often find it comforting just to avoid these areas.

In general, you'd also want to be mindful of areas with tons of foot traffic, since these are places pickpockets and scammers frequent and scout for unknowning tourists to take advantage of. In general, my tips are to avoid bringing expensive looking purses or bags, and if you're carrying something expensive, I'd recommend getting a money belt that can be worn inside of your clothes, tucked right on your belly. These bags are great because they're hidden + you'll most likely feel it if someone's fiddling with your bag if it's right on your belly within eyesight.

There are so many exciting, romantic, and beautiful sights and things to do in Paris at night ! I promise, being a bit more cautious won't ruin your enjoyment.

For navigating your way around the city, Citymapper is an excellent app to have on hand.

What to See in Each Paris Arrondissement: Overview

Every Parisian arrondissement has something to offer and different sights to see.

You could decide to follow the clockwise spiral of the numbering system to visit them all or target the ones that interest you. Or, if you have time to spare, I would recommend a walking tour of Paris's historical neighborhoods. You can also check out other tours around the city to learn more about the rich french history of this beautiful city. I love a good tour! 

Here's a list of some highlights in each arrondissement I think are itinerary worthy so you can plan accordingly!

Highlights and Attractions in Each Paris Arrondissements!

I’ll go more into detail about each arrondissement in the next section, but here’s the snapshot of the main sights to see in each arrondissement:

• 1st (I er ) arrondissement: Louvre, Jardin des Tuileries, Palais-Royal , Les Halles, Île de la Cité
• 2nd (II e ) arrondissement: Bourse, Passages Couverts, Rue Montorgueil.
• 3rd (III e ) arrondissement: Picasso Museum, get a glimpse of medieval Paris
• 4th (IV e ) arrondissement: Île de la Cité, Notre Dame Cathedral, Sainte Chapelle, Place des Vosges, Le Marais
• 5th (V e ) arrondissement: Pantheon, Jardin des Plantes, Musée Cluny, Latin Quarter
• 6th (VI e ) arrondissement: Saint Germain des Prés, Jardin Luxembourg
• 7th (VII e ) arrondissement: Eiffel Tower, Musée d’Orsay, Les Invalides, Champs de Mars
• 8th (VIII e ) arrondissement: Champs-Elysees, Arc de Triomphe, Place de la Concorde
• 9th (IX e ) arrondissement: Opera Garnier, Galeries Lafayette (luxury department stores)
• 10th (X e ) arrondissement: Canal Saint Martin, Place de la République
• 11th (XI e ) arrondissement: Place de la Bastille, Oberkampf quartier
• 12th (XII e )arrondissement: Bois de Vincennes, Bercy village, Proménade Plantée, Marché d'Aligre Market
• 13th (XIII e ) arrondissement: Butte-aux-Cailles neighborhood, French National Library
• 14th (XIV e ) arrondissement: Catacombs
• 15th (XV e ) arrondissement: Montparnasse Tower
• 16th (XVI e ) arrondissement: Bois de Boulogne, Trocadéro, Paris Aquarium
• 17th (XVII e ) arrondissement: Jardin de Batignolles, Cité de Fleurs
• 18th (XVIII e ) arrondissement: Montmartre, Sacré Coeur, Moulin Rouge
• 19th (XIX e ) arrondissement: Parc de Vilette, Paris Plages, Parc des Buttes Chaumont Park
• 20th (XX e ) arrondissement: Père Lachaise Cemetery

If it's your first visit to Paris, I'd focus on the first, third-ninth arrondissements, Trocadero in the 16th, and Montmartre in the 18th to see all the highlights!

If you're pressed on time, check out our recommendations of the things you can do in Paris under three days .

Comprehensive Guide to the Arrondissements of Paris

I've covered what the best areas to stay in Paris for each occasion. I've also covered what areas in Paris to avoid at night.

It's time now dissect each arrondissement of Paris up and show you what they all have to offer in each neighborhood! With 20 arrondissements, there is so much to explore in Paris.

Note: I primarily cover affordable Hostels in Paris in the guide below, but if hostels aren't your vibe, check out the awesome AirBnbs in Paris as well!

1 st Arrondissement

The first arrondissement is smack dab in the middle of Paris and home to some of the must-see classic sights, including the Louvre, Tuileries Garden, and Ile de la Cité. This is always a top place for both first-time visitors and hundredth-time locals.

• Things to do: Louvre, Jardin des Tuileries, Les Halles, Île de la Cité, Orangerie Museum
• Tour to take: Wine Museum Guided Tour with wine tasting! Learn all about French wine in France while exploring 18th-century wine cellars. Finish your tour with a wine tasting experience!
• Where to stay: While there are no hostels in the 1er arrondissement, the Hotel Tiquetonne offers rooms at under 70€ a night if you have a slightly higher budget. This hotel is near the metro and within walking distance of all the must-see sights in the arrondissement. If you're looking for other cheap places to stay, excellent hostels can be found as close as the 3eme!
• Features: In addition to all the sights to see, this arrondissement is along the Seine, and you'll find monuments, squares, and beautiful architecture all along the cobblestoned streets. For theatre lovers, check out Le Chatelet or La Comédie Française for any shows!

2 nd Arrondissement

The second arrondissement is mainly the business district of Paris, which has earned it the nickname of La Bourse (translated to the stock market in English).

• Things to do: Passages Couverts, Rue Montorgeuil for food
• Tour to take: Covered Passages Walking Tour . Take a guided tour through the covered passages of the 2eme arrondissement, and learn all the different ones to see!
• Where to stay: No hostels. Hotels in this arrondissement are generally 3 or 4-star. Still, for a cheaper alternative, I would say to try Hotel d'Orléans Paris Gare de l'Est if you want to treat yourself a little!
• Features: As the smallest arrondissement, I only found one park, but ample shopping opportunities.

3 rd Arrondissement

As half of Le Marais, the 3rd arrondissement is a popular neighborhood for tourists and locals alike.

• Things to do: Picasso Museum, get a glimpse of medieval Paris.
• Tour to take: Marais Walking Tour to learn all about Le Marais, and stop for two gourmet tastings along the way.
• Where to stay : MIJE Marais - stay in a unique 17th-century building with complimentary WiFi and continental breakfast!
• Features: The 3eme is home to the oldest market in Paris, the Marché des Enfants Rouges.

4 th Arrondissement

Moving into the other half of Le Marais, this is also the other half of Ile de La Cité. Situated along the right bank of the Seine, you're now in the Hôtel de Ville area of Paris.

• Things to do: Île de la Cité, Île Saint-Louis, Notre-Dame, Sainte Chapelle, Place des Vosges
• Tour to take: Ile de la Cite Walking Tour with a visit to Notre Dame.
• Where to stay: MIJE Marais - their locations span both halves of Le Marais!
• Features: As you cross into this half of Le Marais, you enter the Gay District of Paris. You can also enjoy a lovely picnic in Place des Vosges.
• Where to eat/drink: Le Piment Cafe, Cafe Charlot, La Perle.

5 th Arrondissement

The Latin Quarter is one of the hippest neighborhoods with students and tourists but retains its historical charm. I love the blend of everything in the 5th arrondissement.

• Things to do: Panthéon, Jardin des Plantes, Musée Cluny
• Tour to take: Paris Bike Tour of the hidden secrets in Le Marais and the Latin Quarter. Enjoy learning about this area of Paris while biking through the streets!
• Where to stay: Young and Happy Hostel is Paris' first independent hostel. I noticed it is a member of the hiphophostels network.
• Features: Cabarets aplenty, and the Sorbonne, which brings a lively student culture I love to the arrondissement!
• Where to eat/drink: Les Crepes de Louis-Marie

6 th Arrondissement

Bienvenue to the Saint Germain des Pres neighborhood of Paris where you'll find the views and architecture that are so associated with the city! I felt I had been here before. That's because when movies shoot Paris scenes, more often than not, they're taking scenes of the big streets, avenues, and buildings located right in the 6th arrondissement!

• Things to do: Saint Germain des Prés, Jardin Luxembourg
• Tour to take: Learn to bake a croissant with a French chef!
• Where to stay: There are no hostels in this arrondissement, and hotels can be expensive so I'd plan wisely if you want to stay in this area! With hostels in the 5eme and 7eme, you can easily stay there and be close to Saint Germain des Pres.
• Features: The 6eme is home to the famous Cafe de Flore, where famous writers and philosophers have frequented in the past (and Emily from Emily in Paris too has been there!)
• Where to eat/drink: The 6eme is famous for its gourmet food and pastries, so you can't go wrong most places! Give Maison Mulot a try for pastries or Cabeau des Oubliettes for a bistro bar with nightly music!

7 th Arrondissement

Home to the Eiffel Tower and Les Invalides, this is a must-stop arrondissement on your trip to Paris!

• Things to do: Eiffel Tower, Musée d’Orsay, Les Invalides, Champs de Mars
• Tour to take: I found this to be a unique experience, touring the UNESCO headquarters .
• Where to stay: The 3 Ducks Eiffel Tower by Hiphophostels is located just on the outskirts of the 7eme, and within walking distance of all the sights!
• Features: Head underground to the Paris Sewer Museum, or visit Rue Cler, one of the most well-known market streets of Paris.

8 th Arrondissement

If you're into shopping, I'd say this is the arrondissement for you! Also known as Elysée, you'll find some of the best and most expensive shops here.

• Things to do: Champs-Élysées, Arc de Triomphe, Place de la Concorde
• Tour to take: Skip-The-Line Arc de Triomphe Rooftop Tickets
• Where to stay: As an expensive arrondissement, you won't find any hostels here, but neighboring arrondissements (9, 16, and 17) have plenty of affordable options!
• Features: Catch a show at the Crazy Horse Cabaret . As for me, I'd wander down the Champs-Elysees to enjoy the posh shopping scene. You'll have a view of the Arc de Triomphe as you do.

9 th Arrondissement

Also known as Opéra, I discovered what was the heart of Parisian culture in the 19th century in the 9th arrondissement!

• Things to do: Opéra Garnier, Galeries Lafayette for shopping
• Tour to take: Self guided tour of the Opéra Garnier
• Where to stay: BVJ Opera Montmartre
• Features: Haussmann architecture is everywhere in this arrondissement, which is so quintessentially French (and Parisian)! Even if you're not a shopping person, be sure to pop inside Galeries Lafayette just to admire the architecture inside. It's stunning.

10 th Arrondissement

As you get further out of central Paris, you'll come across Canal Saint Martin, and the arrondissement that shares its name. Home to Gare du Nord, and Gare de l’Est, this arrondissement is also well connected by train!

• Things to do: Canal Saint Martin, Place de la République
• Tour to take: Seine River and Canal Saint Martin Cruise
• Where to stay: St. Christopher's Inn Gare du Nord is easily accessible from Gare du Nord and highly rated.
• Features: You can picnic along the canal bank or find some fun vintage shops around the area!

11 th Arrondissement

Home to the Bastille Prison, and the French revolutionary spirit, the 11eme arrondissement is nicknamed Republique. I can still feel the revolutionary energy in the streets of this arrondissement sometimes!

• Things to do: Place de la Bastille, Oberkampf quartier
• Tour to take: The best of hidden Parisian Street Food & Street Art will take you through a few arrondissements as you explore Belleville and its street art.
• Where to stay: Bastille Hotel , but this auberge (French for hostel) does have a maximum age of 30 for guests.
• Features: You can visit an Edith Piaf Museum, or the Atelier des Lumieres to learn about the history of film in France.
• Where to eat/drink: Coffee shops are excellent in Oberkampf, and one such is La Fontaine de Belleville.

12 th Arrondissement

Getting away from the bustle of the city, here you'll find a mainly residential 12th arrondissement of Paris full of greenery and parks. It's also home to the Gare de Lyon.

• Things to do: Bois de Vincennes, Parc de Bercy, Proménade Plantée, Marché d'Aligre Market.
• Tour to take: 2 Hour Market Tour with Tastings through the Marché d'Aligre.
• Where to stay: The People - Paris Bercy , a new hostel in the 12eme with ensuite rooms and a fabulous rooftop!
• Features: Lots of greenery and the Marché d'Aligre. As this is more residential, I would not consider it a must-visit arrondissement. However, it can be nice for people who have visited Paris multiple times!

13 th Arrondissement

As the up-and-coming 13th arrondissement, I hope you're prepared to find street art, murals, and artsy vibes!

• Things to do: Butte-aux-Cailles neighborhood, French National Library
• Tour to take: Urban Art Murals Walking Tour with an Expert. The 13eme is well-known in Paris for its art murals and street art.
• Where to stay: Hotel Tolbiac has simple single room options for comparable rates to hostels, but you can jump over to the 12eme or 14eme for a hostel if that's what you'd prefer!
• Features: Learn about tapestry at the Manufacture des Gobelins. (Not to be confused with the Gobelins school of animation.)

14 th Arrondissement

In Montparnasse, you'll find fun cafes, student-friendly restaurants, and a fun residential arrondissement of Paris.

• Things to do: I would recommend Catacombs
• Tour to take: Paris Catacombs skip-the-line ticket and audio guide
• Where to stay: Enjoy Hostel . While being safely nestled within the 14eme, you're less than a 10-minute walk from the Latin Quarter as well.
• Features: Stroll around the Montparnasse neighborhood to experience a residential Paris.

15 th Arrondissement

Ironically, the 15eme is the largest arrondissement, but I was surprised to see it has the least amount of sights to see! This is a perfect neighborhood if you're looking for a family-friendly space or some quiet in the evenings.

• Things to do: Montparnasse Tower - with a higher view than the Eiffel Tower, you can enjoy Paris' skyline up high!
• Tour to take: Balloon Flight over Paris . Fly over Paris from a height of 150 meters in a balloon, and take in the skyline from a different angle!
• Where to stay: Hotel Madrigal , closely located to Gare Montparnasse, is a peaceful place to stay if you want to be away from central Paris.
• Features: Visit Parc André Citröen, or Ile aux Cygnes. Similarly to the 12eme, this isn't an arrondissement to visit on your first few trips to Paris, but it can be a nice escape from central Paris.

16 th Arrondissement

Stepping into the most affluent arrondissement of Paris, you may feel some more bougie vibes, but there are still beautiful areas of it to explore

• Things to do: Bois de Boulogne, Trocadéro, Paris Aquarium, Palais de Tokyo
• Tour to take: Small Group Visit to the Musée Yves Saint Lauren
• Where to stay: As the most expensive arrondissement, I've found that budget friendly hostels aren't available here, but there are in neighboring arrondissements!
• Features: Art nouveau architecture differs from much of the rest of Paris. The 16eme is also home to Le Parc des Princes, the football stadium for PSG, so you can try to catch a match there!

17 th Arrondissement

What used to be hunting grounds has now spread out into a lovely section of outer Paris. I feel I've traveled back in time a little when walking down some of the streets on the 17th arrondissement!

• Things to do: Jardin de Batignolles, Cité de Fleurs
• Tour to take: Nothing specific in this arrondissement, but take a walk through it to experience it all!
• Where to stay: With no hostels, you can pop over to the 19eme for affordable hostels!
• Features: Haussmann architecture and greenery.

18 th Arrondissement

Back into tourism territory, in a good way, as we enter Montmartre!

• Things to do: Montmartre, Sacré Coeur, Moulin Rouge.
• Tour to take: Montmartre Street Art Tour with an artist.
• Where to stay: Le Montclair Montmartre is within five minutes walk of Montmartre, and I have a tip for you, bookings made over 30 days out get a 15% discount!
• Features: Go see a classic Moulin Rouge show, or just admire the outside of the well-known building. You can also head to the Pigalle district for nightlife and partying!

19 th Arrondissement

A trendy but off-the-beaten-path arrondissement, you'll feel as if you've stepped outside of Paris while still feeling its unique charm. I believe you'll take a lot of photos here.

• Things to do: Cité de la Science et l’Industrie, Parc de la Villette, Paris Plages, and Parc Buttes-Chaumont
• Tour to take: 90-Minute Street Art Tour
• Where to stay: St Christopher's Inns Canal offers free breakfast if you book directly through their website.
• Features: Explore the Canal de l'Ourcq along the banks or on the water! Be advised that northern parts of this arrondissement aren't recommended to visit after dark.

20 th Arrondissement

The last arrondissement, Belleville is one of the least tourist-filled neighborhoods, all while still having sights and monuments!

• Things to do: Pere Lachaise Cemetery
• Tour to take: Pere Lachaise walking tour to help you easily locate the famous residents of the cemetery and their histories.
• Where to stay: Hiphotel Belgrand , although you should stay closer to the center of Paris for first-time visitors to make exploring easier!
• Features: Parc de Belleville for some serenity outside the city center of Paris.

Explore More of Paris!

There's a reason Paris is such a popular city to visit in Europe, and I know you can discover it all while you're there. Even though every neighborhood offers something different, they all make up the Paris we know and love. I can express enough, exploring them all will only make your trip more exciting. Hopefully, my guide has you covered if you know where you want to stay but aren't sure what hostel is best for you.

If you're staying in Paris for long, make sure you take a day trip from Paris to see all of the beautiful sights located around the city! It's views and vibes to die for.

Flying to Paris?

If you're still planning your trip to Paris, I'd make sure you're booking the cheapest flights you can find. Try SkyScanner !

SkyScanner helps you find the cheapest flights available so that you wouldn't have to pay for a flight ticket and save that money for souvenirs or for food!

If you want the deets on Paris's CDG Airport , we've got you covered on that end as well.

Plan Your Trip to Paris!

How can you actually do all of this? How can you plan the perfect trip to Paris? Now that you've gotten all the Paris neighborhoods sorted out, it's time to Join Pilot and build the ultimate itinerary for Paris!

Disclosure : Pilot is supported by our community. We may earn a small commission fee with affiliate links on our website. All reviews and recommendations are independent and do not reflect the official view of Pilot.

Satisfy your wanderlust

Get Pilot. The travel planner that takes fun and convenience to a whole other level. Try it out yourself.

Trending Travel Stories

Discover new places and be inspired by stories from our traveller community.

Related Travel Guides

Is Paris Safe in 2024? A Traveler's Safety Guide

Top 9 Paris Restaurants Popular NOW (Foodie's Favorites)

Make the most of every trip

You won’t want to plan trips any other way!

The trip planner that puts everything in one place, making planning your trip easier, quicker, and more fun.

Every item on this page was chosen by a Town & Country editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

Inside the Scandale at Sciences Po

As controversy hits France's most elite university—student protests, class treason, #MeToo à la française—the Parisian one percent wonders, will its grip on power finally slip?

Hidden away on an unremarkable side street on the Left Bank in Paris is a university that fancies itself “the French Harvard.” One morning in March, the director of Sciences Po, Mathias Vicherat, who had taken office promising to combat sexual violence, resigned months after he and his ex-girlfriend went to the police accusing each other of domestic abuse. Vicherat became the school’s third consecutive director to leave (one in a coffin) in the shadow of personal or professional transgressions.

His departure was only Sciences Po’s second-biggest controversy of the week, behind a dispute between students over the war in Gaza. That row prompted French prime minister Gabriel Attal to make the 700-yard journey from his official residence to his old school’s council meeting to underline “the absolute necessity that the university remains a place of…healthy debates that respect the values of the republic.” Along with a spate of other recent scandals, the turmoil amounts to the most significant upheaval on Sciences Po’s campus in its 152-year history.

The French campus wars, like the American ones , are about much more than education. The French elite is fighting for survival, caught in a kind of civil war between generations, as well as the anger of the excluded 99 percent. The one percent, as in the U.S., has long been prepared in exclusive schools, which like the elite itself now face a choice: reform or die.

X Marks the Spot

France’s selective grandes écoles have their roots in the 18th century. The idea from the start was to groom a meritocratic élite d’etat , an “elite of state.” Its members would be chosen by concours (competitions), and they would spend their careers serving the nation. A state career traditionally carries more prestige in France than almost any business success.

The 15-year-old Napoleon passed the test to attend military school in Paris, and after the Revolution, with the aristocrats beheaded, new grandes écoles furnished a new elite. Sciences Po was a relative latecomer, founded in 1872 as the Ecole Libre des Sciences Politiques to create “the elite that will, step by step, set the tone for the whole nation.” The school remains less well known abroad than its 800-year-old neighbor the Sorbonne, which retains a reputation in the United States as an upscale junior-year-abroad destination for the likes of Jackie Kennedy. But the Sorbonne, to be clear, is not a grande école.

An ambitious French 18-year-old graduating from lycée will aim to go to either Sciences Po or a Parisian prépa , a sort of intellectual boot camp where students spend what should be two prime partying years working 70 hours a week, delving into philosophy and math while being yelled at by teachers who reputedly demand PhD-level work. After prépa, those who ace their concours make it into one of the grandest of the grandes écoles: the Ecole Polytechnique for scientists and mathematicians, the Ecole Normale Supérieure (“Normale Sup”) for all-purpose intellectuals, and the Ecole Nationale d’Administration (ENA) for those who want to run the country. Some who fail the concours never get over it. Eric Zemmour, a far-right politician, was reputedly radicalized by his two rejections by ENA.

Those who do enter a grande école tend to develop a permanent sense of solidarity with their companions. Together they won the system, and most feel they deserve it. Haven’t they proven themselves brainier and harder-working than all other French people? A key word of praise among members of the elite is brillant . Brilliance is seen as an innate quality and more important than, say, integrity or social skills.

Since the status of the elite’s members is based on totally objective meritocratic brilliance, they are quick to tell you they are elite members. It’s quite normal for a sixtysomething Parisian to introduce himself as, say, “Jean-Pierre Dupont, X, 1985”. You’re meant to know that “X” is the nickname for the Ecole Polytechnique and that 1985 was the year he entered. If he refers to someone else as a cher camarade , you know that person too went to X. Even a brief death notice in Le Monde might mention the key fact of his life: “…at the age of 93. Former pupil of…”

For a case study of the elite route, take Macron. A brillant boy from the town of Amiens, he “rose to Paris,” in the French phrase, and studied at Sciences Po while simultaneously doing a philosophy degree at Nanterre University. (His thesis, perhaps inevitably, was on Machiavelli.) He fancied himself a creative intellectual, but his novel Babylone Baby­lone has yet to be published, and the intellos of Normale Sup rejected him, so he settled for ENA, “the school of presidents.”

ENA, founded by Charles de Gaulle in 1945 to train the state’s post-Vichy elite, started out on the Left Bank, but it later decamped to provincial Strasbourg, where it occupies the surprisingly charming grounds of a former prison dating back to the 14th century. Each year it admits only about 80 students. Most come from the Parisian elite, so out in the boonies in Strasbourg they are thrown together to forge friendships that are meant to last through their careers in the highest reaches of the French state.

Those careers can be made or broken in a day by graduation rankings. Traditionally, each class at ENA was ranked, from top student to last. The most prestigious state jobs were reserved for those in the top 15 or so spots, known as la botte . First prize for those in “the boot” was joining the state’s most elite corps, the Inspection Générale des Finances. Macron became an inspecteur, and he remains an énarque (an ENA grad), because that is an indelible identity. Whereas an American might say, “He went to Harvard,” the French say, “Il est énarque,” in the present tense.

Et Tu, Emmanuel?

Almost everyone who graduates from a grande école gets a de facto lifetime elite membership card. Though typically in their early twenties, these lucky few are done with proving themselves. They have won the race, and there is no need to compete with the defeated 99 percent of the population ever again. The winners return to Paris, ideally the Left Bank, where they spend the rest of their lives surrounded by pals from grande école, and often shacked up with one. France has the smallest, most unified elite of any major country. It’s as if the power brokers of Silicon Valley, Washington, Harvard, Manhattan, and Holly­wood were all squeezed into a few neighborhoods in the center of the same town.

Elite members content themselves with the state’s relatively modest salaries (admittedly followed by the longest pensions in human history). Their status resides in the books on their shelves, the philosophy in their heads, and the people they know. They solidify their networks in personal rather than work settings: at Left Bank dinner tables, in their regular corner cafés or summer villages, or while picking up their children at the gates of the Ecole Alsacienne private school (where Attal went).

Their children inherit their privileges. Your chance of attending a grande école is 83 times the average if your father went to a highly prestigious one, the economist Stéphane Benveniste calculated in 2021. It was just as the sociologist Pierre Bourdieu warned decades earlier: The supposedly meritocratic French elite had begun to reproduce itself. (Nobody mastered elite self-reproduction better than Bourdieu himself. His three sons all followed him to Normale Sup.)

For decades most French people accepted and even took pride in their elite. Rule by exam-passers seemed to work. The French elite had modernized the country during the Trente Glorieuses, the 30 glorious years of economic growth from the Liberation through the mid-1970s. They installed Europe’s fastest trains, the TGVs. They co-created the world’s fastest passenger plane, the Concorde. They made France an independent geopolitical actor that regularly defied Washington. In the 1980s they led the world in launching a sort of French-only ur-internet called Minitel, which seems to have been used mostly for reserving tennis courts and having phone sex.

But after the financial crisis of 2008, the global anti-elitist mood reached France, too. In 2018 the country experienced a sort of parallel shock to Trump’s victory in the U.S.: the uprising of the gilets jaunes , the “yellow vests,” mostly working-class protesters from small towns and exurbs who marched on Paris every Saturday for months. The gilets jaunes despised, among other things, the supposedly out-of-touch énarques, whose embodiment was Macron. In 2021 he said he would abolish ENA, calling it no longer “meritocratic.”

In fact he only reinvented it, but that was enough to outrage elite Paris, much of which now regards him as a class traitor. ENA has been renamed the Institut National du Service Public (INSP), and it is charged with training a whole range of budding administrators, not just 80 énarques. INSP’s curriculum has been updated, its admissions supposedly diversified, and the career-defining exit ranking abolished.

Trouble at the Po

Sciences Po has been on its own turbulent journey. Its transformational director, the énarque Richard Descoings, who expanded the school, trip­ling its intake, and spoke of turning it into a French Harvard, was found dead of a heart attack in a hotel room in Manhattan in 2012. He was naked, and it was reported that he might have been visited earlier by two male sex workers, despite being married to a woman. NBC News reported that his laptop and phone had been thrown out the window of his seventh-floor room and found on a third-floor landing.

Descoings’s successor, Frédéric Mion, was popular with students until he was felled by a colleague’s incest scandal. A best-selling book accused Olivier Duhamel (president of the National Foundation of Political Science, which oversees Sciences Po) of having sexually abused his stepson. Duhamel resigned. Mion, it turned out, had known about the incest allegations but kept them secret. Then came the ill-fated Vicherat.

These flare-ups aren’t isolated incidents. They are the results of #MeToo à la française : The French population has stopped tolerating the elite’s traditional sexual license to take pleasure without always bothering to get consent.

Impossible City: Paris in the Twenty-First Century

Now, at the leaderless Sciences Po, the students remain in uproar, over Gaza and sexual violence. There’s nothing new about student protests in Paris; every French generation tries to recreate the glamour of the 1968 “revolution.” But Macron and Attal are watching their old school warily, and not only because the French elite is obsessed with the French elite. They assume that this generation of Sciences Po grads will get their turn to run France.

The adult elite would be happier if the country’s future leaders were marching for traditional French causes, like more sex or earlier pensions. The grownups worry that today’s young are more left-wing and anti-colonialist than they themselves were. And in a long-standing French tradition, the shift is being blamed on American influence: Commentators are lamenting that le wokisme has crossed the Atlantic. Attal has warned against “a North American ideology, which, under the cover of a certain modernity, extols intolerance.” Sciences Po, significantly, is the most international grande école. About half its students are foreigners, chiefly from English-speaking countries, the Arab world, Germany, and Italy. Many classes are taught in English. How can such a school remain true to French values?

A mile from Sciences Po, across the river, is the Place de la Concorde, the square where the members of the ancien régime had their heads chopped off during the Revolution. The specter of that time hangs over their modern counterparts. Their collective nightmare is the far-right leader Marine Le Pen becoming president in 2027, and now that their incubators of power are under attack, they are at last moving toward reform. It’s just that, like so many things in France, they are doing so at their leisure. Meanwhile, the distant whoosh of the guillotine gets closer and closer.

@media(min-width: 40.625rem){.css-1jdielu:before{margin:0.625rem 0.625rem 0;width:3.5rem;-webkit-filter:invert(17%) sepia(72%) saturate(710%) hue-rotate(181deg) brightness(97%) contrast(97%);filter:invert(17%) sepia(72%) saturate(710%) hue-rotate(181deg) brightness(97%) contrast(97%);height:1.5rem;content:'';display:inline-block;-webkit-transform:scale(-1, 1);-moz-transform:scale(-1, 1);-ms-transform:scale(-1, 1);transform:scale(-1, 1);background-repeat:no-repeat;}.loaded .css-1jdielu:before{background-image:url(/_assets/design-tokens/townandcountrymag/static/images/diamond-header-design-element.80fb60e.svg);}}@media(min-width: 64rem){.css-1jdielu:before{margin:0 0.625rem 0.25rem;}} In the Magazine @media(min-width: 40.625rem){.css-128xfoy:before{margin:0.625rem 0.625rem 0;width:3.5rem;-webkit-filter:invert(17%) sepia(72%) saturate(710%) hue-rotate(181deg) brightness(97%) contrast(97%);filter:invert(17%) sepia(72%) saturate(710%) hue-rotate(181deg) brightness(97%) contrast(97%);height:1.5rem;content:'';display:inline-block;background-repeat:no-repeat;}.loaded .css-128xfoy:before{background-image:url(/_assets/design-tokens/townandcountrymag/static/images/diamond-header-design-element.80fb60e.svg);}}@media(min-width: 64rem){.css-128xfoy:before{margin:0 0.625rem 0.25rem;}}

A Look Inside Fashion's Most Private Archives

What's It Like To Sail On The Ultraluxury Grandeur

What’s Eating Jack Schlossberg?

Is Laura Kugel Paris's Best Kept Secret?

Anatomy of a Classic: Louis Vuitton's Petite Malle

The Best (and Most Secret) Museums in Paris 2024

The T&C Investment Portfolio Summer 2024

The Best Beauty Spots in Paris

The Next Culinary Stars of Paris Have Arrived

So, Where Do You Stay in Paris?

A Snob's Map to the Oldest Shops in Paris