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Must do's and try's in Paris
In the city of lights, there’s much more than just the Eiffel Tower and croissants waiting to be discovered. Dive into the unique flavors, traditions, and offbeat experiences that define Paris, where every corner has a story and every bite is a revelation. Get ready to ditch the tourist trail and step into the authentic Parisian adventure that awaits!
- Escargots de Bourgogne: Don’t let the idea of snails scare you! These buttery, garlic-infused delicacies are a must-try. Sip on a glass of wine and savor these little critters like a true Parisian—just don’t forget to use the tiny fork. Your taste buds will be saying “merci!”
- Wine and Cheese Tasting at a Local Marché: Forget the formalities of a fancy restaurant! Join a local wine and cheese tasting at one of Paris's bustling marchés. Engage with passionate vendors who’ll make you feel like a connoisseur in no time—just try not to embarrass yourself by mixing up your Brie with your Camembert!
- La Petite Ceinture: This hidden gem is a forgotten railway track turned urban park. Stroll along its overgrown paths and discover a serene escape from the city’s hustle and bustle, complete with stunning views and quirky street art. It’s the perfect place to pretend you’re in a romantic film—complete with dramatic sighs.
- Midnight Picnic by the Seine: Grab a baguette, some cheese, and a bottle of rosé, and join the locals for a midnight picnic by the Seine. As the moonlight dances on the water, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a scene from “Amélie.” Just watch out for those pesky pigeons—they’re not as charming as they look!
Paris is bursting with delightful surprises and tastes just waiting for you to uncover. Embrace the quirky, the delicious, and the utterly unforgettable to experience the city like a true local. Bon appétit!
Sightseeing in Paris
- Eiffel Tower
- Louvre Museum
- Notre-Dame Cathedral
- Montmartre and the Sacré-Cœur
- Champs-Élysées and Arc de Triomphe
- Seine River Cruise (because who doesn't love a boat ride?)
- Palace of Versailles (don't forget your crown!)
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What to do in Paris?
Where to go?
The best areas in Paris
When exploring Paris, it's not just about the iconic landmarks; it's about discovering the charm and character hidden in its eclectic neighborhoods. Each area has its own unique vibe, whether it's the artistic flair of Montmartre or the chic ambiance of Le Marais. So pack your beret and get ready to navigate the winding streets where every corner holds a story and every café serves a side of people-watching.
Montmartre
Ah, Montmartre! The district where artists once roamed and where you can still pretend to be one while sipping overpriced coffee. Climb the steps to the Sacré-Cœur for a view that will make you forget your quads are on fire. Don’t forget to check out the famous Place du Tertre, where you can haggle for portraits you probably won’t hang at home.
Le Marais
Welcome to Le Marais, a place so fashionable it practically has its own runway. This district is a mix of trendy boutiques, historic mansions, and enough falafel to keep you fueled for a shopping spree. Just remember, if you don’t take a selfie in front of the Hôtel de Ville, did you even visit Paris?
Saint-Germain-des-Prés
Once the haunt of existentialists, now the realm of chic cafés and designer boutiques. In Saint-Germain-des-Prés, you can sip an espresso and ponder life’s big questions, like why the croissants here taste better than anywhere else. Pro tip: Avoid discussing philosophy with the locals unless you’re prepared to get deep.
Canal Saint-Martin
If you’re looking for a hipster paradise, Canal Saint-Martin is your go-to spot. Picture tree-lined canals, quaint bridges, and enough artisanal shops to make your wallet weep. Grab a picnic from a nearby boulangerie and pretend you’re in a French romantic comedy—bonus points if you awkwardly trip while trying to impress someone.
Latin Quarter
Home to students and scholars, the Latin Quarter buzzes with youthful energy and intellectual charm. Stroll through the cobblestone streets, visit the historic Sorbonne, and don’t miss the Shakespeare and Company bookstore—where the books are as old as your granddad’s jokes. Just be prepared for a few literary references you might not get!
Where to stay?
Where to stay in Paris?
Transportation tips
How to get around in Paris
Getting around Paris can be as delightful as the city itself, with a variety of transportation options designed to fit different needs and budgets.
Public Transport
The Paris Métro is the backbone of city transport, featuring 16 lines covering vast areas. It's accessible, frequent, and a great way to avoid street traffic. Just keep your tickets safe—nobody likes a surprise fine!
A single ticket costs about €1.90, but consider a Paris Visite pass for unlimited travel over a few days, starting around €12. The more you ride, the more you save.
Taxis and Rideshares
Taxis are easy to hail in Paris, though you might need to practice your “taxi hand.” They charge by the meter, so watch out for those surges during rush hour. Rideshare apps like Uber are also popular and can be a tad more convenient.
A typical taxi ride within the city can range from €10 to €30, depending on distance and time. Expect to pay more late at night or during holidays.
Walking
Walking is a fantastic way to soak up the Parisian atmosphere. Many attractions are within walking distance, and you’ll stumble across charming cafés and shops that you might miss while zooming by on public transport.
Paris is quite walkable, and it won’t cost you a dime—just wear comfy shoes! It’s a great way to burn off those croissants too.
Plan your journey
Ready-to use itineraries for Paris
Browse our itineraries and find the perfect plan for your trip!
Get to know Paris
Frequently asked questions about Paris
Can I just waltz into a Parisian café and use the Wi-Fi without ordering anything?
Nope, that's a no-go. In Paris, sitting down without ordering is basically a crime against café culture. If you want to use the Wi-Fi, order something—anything, really. A simple espresso will do. Otherwise, you’ll get side-eye from the waiter and a potential eviction from your cozy corner.
What’s the deal with the French and their bathroom etiquette?
Bring your own toilet paper. Many public restrooms in Paris don’t supply toilet paper. Yes, you read that right. Always have a pack of tissues handy, or you might find yourself in a rather uncomfortable situation. And don’t even think about asking the staff for some; they’ll look at you like you just insulted their grandmother.
Can I take my dog everywhere in Paris?
How do I avoid being ripped off by street vendors?
Be skeptical, very skeptical. Street vendors in tourist-heavy areas can be aggressive and may try to sell you overpriced trinkets. If someone approaches you with a “special deal,” just smile and walk away. Trust me, that “one-of-a-kind” Eiffel Tower keychain is not worth the €20 they’ll demand.
Is it really true that Parisians hate speaking English?
Not hate, but they prefer French. Parisians don’t exactly hate English speakers, but they do appreciate it when you at least try to speak French. A simple “bonjour” goes a long way. Just don’t expect them to switch to English immediately; they’ll likely respond in French, so brush up on your “survival French” before you go!
Why does my Paris Metro ticket keep getting rejected?
Because you’re probably using it wrong. Paris Metro tickets are finicky little things. Make sure you’re inserting them with the magnetic strip facing you and not trying to use a ticket that’s already been validated. If your ticket gets rejected, don’t panic; just step aside and try again. Or, you know, just buy a new one.
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Community Q&A
Got a question about Paris? Fire away!
Here's the honest truth from our experience: there's a grain of truth to the stereotype, but it's way more complicated than "Parisians are rude." Michael and I have visited Paris six times now, and we've had the full spectrum of interactions - from incredibly warm and helpful to the classic Parisian eye-roll.
What we've learned is that Parisians often operate with a different set of social rules than what many of us are used to. For example, entering a shop without saying "Bonjour" first is considered genuinely rude in Paris, even if that seems trivial to visitors. During our first trip, we definitely made this mistake and got some frosty responses. Once we figured out these unwritten rules, our experiences improved dramatically.
Another thing we've noticed: Parisians appreciate effort. Even our absolutely terrible, mangled French pronunciation is usually met with smiles and sometimes even a switch to perfect English to help us out. It's the assumption that everyone should accommodate you that tends to ruffle feathers.
My biggest advice? Give Parisians a chance, just like you would hope visitors to your hometown would do. I remember this one time when we were completely lost in the 11th arrondissement, and an older Parisian gentleman not only gave us directions but actually walked us three blocks to make sure we found the hidden restaurant we were looking for. He refused our offer to buy him a coffee and just said, "Enjoy my city" before heading off.
So yes, sometimes you'll encounter the stereotypical snippy waiter or impatient shop owner - but you'll also find incredible warmth, pride in their city, and genuine helpfulness if you approach interactions with openness and a tiny bit of cultural awareness.
Love, Merel
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