Paris Unlocked: Expert Travel Tips for Visiting the City

There’s a reason Paris tops so many travel wish lists. From its timeless beauty and world-class art to its charming cafés and cobblestone streets, the City of Light casts a spell on every visitor. Whether it’s your first trip or your fifth, Paris always has something new to discover. However, with all its elegance and charm, it’s helpful to have a plan—especially when navigating transportation, accommodations, and the day-to-day logistics of exploring a bustling European capital. In this guide, I’ll cover what you need to know to make your Paris trip smooth and memorable, including tips for planning, navigating the city, finding delicious food, selecting suitable accommodations, locating public restrooms, and more. I’ve learned a great deal from the numerous trips my husband and I’ve taken to Paris, and I’ve compiled my tips in the sections below.

**The Eiffel Tower at night. It sparkles for the first 5 minutes of the hour (after dusk).**

Contents

Planning Your Trip to Paris

Paris is a dream destination for many, and with thoughtful preparation, it can be a fantastic experience for travelers of all abilities. Planning ahead makes all the difference. In this section, I’ll share essential planning tips to help ensure your Parisian adventure is as smooth and enjoyable as possible.

Anytime is a good time to visit Paris, but the shoulder seasons (May, June, September, October) tend to be the most comfortable for weather and crowds. The summer high season can be downright hot and overflowing with tourists. In August, Paris slows down as many Parisians take vacation then; this can affect some well-known restaurants and shops. Most places in tourist areas will probably remain open.
Before leaving home, decide what kind of trip you plan to take: fitting in a lot of museums and sites each day or balancing the busy with the leisurely. For trip planning tips, please read my article Wander without Worry: How to Plan a Great Trip. For more action steps before leaving home, please read Trip Planning Timeline: The Ultimate Travel Countdown Checklist.
Develop a daily itinerary and map things out ahead of time to determine what’s feasible to do each day. You can do this on your own, use an app like Wanderlog or TripIt, or ask AI to help you plan your days based on what you want to see. If using AI, like ChatGPT, verify the information (like a site’s hours of operation) it provides before relying solely on it, as some of the information it gathers might be outdated. For more information, please read my article, Design Perfect Trip Itineraries — On Your Own or with AI.
Before your departure, consider booking a walking tour of a section of Paris, such as Montmartre or the Marais, monuments, and/or museums that interest you the most. Booking tours of Paris and popular attractions, such as the Louvre, allows you to skip long lines, gain insider knowledge from expert guides, and make the most of every minute in the city.
Reserve tickets online for major attractions like the Arc de Triomphe, the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame, Sacré-Cœur Basilica, Sainte-Chapelle, and other highly touristed sites. Some sites sell tickets 60 to 90 days in advance. If there’s a particular dinner cruise or other experience you don’t want to miss, check their online reservation system.
Make your online reservations with the sites themselves for dated/timed tickets to skip the line. Other companies offer these tickets as well, but it’s best to book directly with the museum, monument, or cathedral.
Always check operating hours, as some museums and restaurants close on Mondays or Tuesdays.
Purchase a Paris Museum Pass if you plan to visit multiple paid attractions.
Pack a compact charging station with multiple outlets and USB ports to power up devices at night.
Also, consider keeping a portable power bank in your purse or backpack so you can charge your smartphone while taking photos, using navigation, and other apps. Please read my article Stay Powered Up: A Traveler’s Guide to Power Banks for tips on finding a power bank that is perfect for you.
Decide on an international calling plan. Will you use one from your regular carrier, get an e-SIM, or something else? Each has its advantages and drawbacks.
Install the apps that will be helpful while in Paris. Please read my article, Must-Have Apps and Sites for Savvy Travelers.
Check a French website for announcements of upcoming transportation strikes, such as those involving trains and air travel. It’s not unusual for there to be strikes — announced ahead of time and usually held for one day. Note that the France strike website (link above) is in French, but use the translation feature in your web browser (in the URL field) to translate it into English.
Packing light is recommended, and it’s the way we travel. For packing tips, please read my article, Travel Lightly: Top Ten Tips to Pack for Your Next Trip. There are plenty of laundromats in Paris, and if you stay in a short-term rental, look for one that offers a washing machine – a valuable convenience when traveling. (Some apartments do not come with dryers, and if not, the host usually provides a drying rack and hangers.)
Take along a travel-size pack of tissues, as some public bathrooms do not have toilet paper.
Pack a washcloth (and a plastic baggie) if you use washcloths, as some hotels and short-term rentals do not include washcloths.

**A boat floats down the River Seine in Paris.**

Money Matters in Paris

Most places in Paris accept credit and debit cards, specifically VISA and MasterCard. American Express is not widely accepted. Much of Europe is cashless now and accepts “tap-to-pay” cards — even for small purchases..
When using ATMs to withdraw cash, opt for those operated by banks and always select the option for the local currency, in this case, Euros, and do not convert it to dollars. Using a bank-operated ATM and converting to the local currency will minimize transaction fees and provide reasonable exchange rates. (Avoid using independently operated ATMs or currency exchange counters at the airport, as they often charge steep transaction fees and offer less favorable exchange rates.)
There’s not a need for a lot of cash in France, but it’s helpful to have small amounts for tipping (for tour guides, housekeeping, and servers after an excellent meal), buying minor items (like at food stands, small shops), and for using public bathrooms (usually €.50 or €1.00). Having said that, having more Euros can always come in handy if there’s an unexpected need for them. If you have extra Euros close to your departure, you can use them for a final meal or purchase, or take them home and use them as a starting cash stash when you return to Europe in the future.
When leaving France, you can apply for a refund of the value-added tax (VAT) on retail purchases of goods, provided the total amount of your purchases exceeds €100 and was made in the same store on the same day. You can do this electronically at the airport using a PABLO terminal. For more information, refer to the online information provided by the French Consulate in Washington, D.C.

Communicating in France

When traveling in France, mastering the art of greetings isn’t just polite—it’s essential to blending in, showing respect, and unlocking more authentic, welcoming interactions with locals. When entering a shop, restaurant, café, or service provider (such as ride-sharing services), always begin by speaking with a greeting in French. Here’s a quick list of standard greetings and other phrases to keep in mind.

English Phrase	French Translation	Pronunciation Guide
Hello / Good morning	Bonjour	bohn-zhoor
Good evening used when greeting someone after 6:00 pm or so	Bonsoir	bohn-swahr
Good night used when parting after dark	Bonne nuit	buhn nwee
Please	S’il vous plait	seel voo pleh
Thank you	Merci	mehr-see
Goodbye	Au revoir	oh ruh-vwahr
Cheers!	Santé! translates to “health” in French	san-tee
I’d like to order…	Je voudrais commander…	zhuh voo-dray koh-mahn-day
I’d like (a soup/a coffee)	Je voudrais [une soupe / un café]	zhuh voo-dray [ewn soop / uh kah-fay]
The check please	L’addition, s’il vous plaît	lah-dee-syon, seel voo pleh

Using a translation app, such as Google Translate, can facilitate communication in both speaking and writing. There’s also a native app on the iPhone called Translate. You can use the apps to take a picture of a menu (in French) to help you decide what to order or to talk with someone who doesn’t speak English. Having the app on my iPhone helped me ask for directions several times when we got “lost” in France. (Yes, there are still places where some French folks who are not English speakers!) Download French as a language into the translation app before your trip, so you’re ready to go!

Transportation in Paris

Paris is a city that invites you to explore, but navigating its streets and neighborhoods requires some planning. From the metro to buses, bikes, and taxis, there are many ways to get around. I prefer mapping out efficient walking routes ahead of time because I enjoy the journey on foot through neighborhoods, across the Seine, and past cafés (a perfect place for a break and a nibble or two).
For transportation from/to the airport, consider taking the train, a taxi from the airport’s official taxi stand, or a ride-share like G7. Do not engage with someone who approaches you at the airport (at baggage claim or as you’re nearing an exit) offering a taxi ride, as they often overcharge for the service. Instead, go to the official airport taxi stand. Note that Bolt and Uber are not allowed in the bus/taxi lanes, so rides may take longer than when using a taxi/G7 ride. (If planning to use G7, download the app before leaving home.)
Two options to help get the lay of the city and easily visit key sites are:
- Hop On-Hop Off bus that travels in a loop around the major sites, and/or
- BatoBus offers hop-on/off cruises that make nine stops along the Seine at key sites like the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame. Get off when you want to visit a place near the stop and hop back on when you’re ready. There are many key sites within a 10-15 minute walk from the Seine.
Taking the metro to get around Paris is considered safe and easy to use. Visit the Bonjour RATP website for metro, bus, and RER (regional rail) information, including itineraries, metro maps, and ticket purchasing instructions.
- Also, you can purchase Paris metro tickets using your iPhone Wallet: 1) go to Wallet, 2) Press the + at the top, 3) Select Transit Card, 4) Select France > Navigo > Continue, 5) Select a pass (based on the number of days or tickets you want).

Seeing Paris

With its grand boulevards, hidden alleys, and world-famous landmarks, Paris is a city that rewards curiosity. Whether you’re visiting the Eiffel Tower, strolling along the Seine, or getting lost in the Marais, there’s something magical around almost every corner. Of course, some areas—such as Montmartre’s steep hills or the city’s numerous cobblestones—can pose challenges, especially for those with limited mobility.

Here’s how to make the most of your exploration, with practical tips for all travelers.

Wear comfortable shoes, such as sneakers; cobblestones and long distances can add up. Montmartre is very hilly with lots of steps.
Carry water in a reusable bottle for hydration throughout the day.
Use Google Maps, CityMapper, Bonjour RATP, or your favorite navigation app to find your way on foot or via Metro.
For the best city views, consider the Arc de Triomphe, the Eiffel Tower, Galeries Lafayette, the Montparnasse Tower, and the Pantheon. You may want to visit near sunset for an extra treat.
Safeguard your smartphone, purse, crossbody bag, backpack, and other belongings from pickpockets. Stay alert at tourist spots, on the metro, and while sitting at restaurants and cafés. Don’t engage with people with clipboards asking you for survey information, especially around the Eiffel Tower; they tend to be scammers.
Paris offers so much to see and experience that it’s pretty challenging to see everything you want in one trip. You might be tempted to fill your days with a lot of seeing and doing, but try not to overbook them. Some of the best days can be the ones where you spend a reasonable amount of time wandering, exploring, and soaking up this beautiful city.

**Walking through neighborhoods allows you to discover inviting shops and** **cafés** **that are off the beaten path.**

Lodging Options in Paris

Choosing where to stay in Paris is about striking a balance between charm, location, and convenience. Whether you’re dreaming of a boutique hotel with Eiffel Tower views, a budget-friendly spot near the Latin Quarter, a modern chain with all the comforts of home, or a short-term rental (with laundry facilities), Paris has. Lodging options to consider:

Hotels in the smaller arrondissements (closer to the historic city center) tend to be more expensive than ones in higher arrondissements (farther from central Paris).
Amenities to consider in finding the right lodging might include location, elevators (some smaller hotels may not have one), how quiet the area is, if there’s onsite breakfast, and accessible rooms.
Consider a short-term rental instead of a hotel. You’ll have more space, including a kitchen and likely a washer and dryer (a significant bonus when traveling). Read the reviews, as they often provide valuable insights into the actual condition of the apartment and neighborhood. When renting, I always look for places with dozens of reviews, ensuring that the most recent ones are not too old. Please read my article How to Find the Perfect Vacation House Rental for more ideas and tips for finding and booking a short-term rental.

Dining Out in Paris

Paris offers a wide variety of cuisines, making for interesting gastronomic discoveries. In addition to traditional brick-and-mortar restaurants and cafés, there are dinner cruises on the Seine, as well as Bustronomes (double-decker buses outfitted for dining) navigating city streets.

Some travelers prefer to make reservations in advance for dining spots. Others don’t book any restaurants, so they have the freedom to eat wherever and whenever they want.

Usually, Paris restaurants serve meals between 12:00 and 2:00 pm and from 7:30 or 8:00 pm until about 11:00 pm. Some restaurants are closed on Sundays and/or Mondays. Of course, many establishments in touristy areas serve food throughout the day.
Paris restaurants include the tip/service in the total of the bill. “Service compris” on the bill indicates that service is included. By law, restaurants must include tax and tips. For great service, you can round up the bill or add up to 10%. However, try to give the tip in cash directly to the server to ensure they receive it. The “TTC” on a dining bill indicates “Toutes Taxes Comprises,” meaning that all taxes are included.
Many cafés have prix-fixe (“formule”) lunch menus—a great value.
For restaurant ratings, check Google Maps, TripAdvisor, or TheFork (widely used in Europe for ratings and reservations).
Ice is not typically served in restaurants and cafés, but you can request it.
Consider a picnic! Shop for picnic fixings and enjoy your meal in a park, such as Champ de Mars, located near the Eiffel Tower, along the Seine, or the Canal Saint-Martin. If you’re near the Eiffel Tower, you can easily find plenty of picnic classics on Rue Cler. You’ll want to go to separate shops to find the cheese (in a fromagerie), baguette (in a boulangerie), sweets (in a patisserie), fruit, and a wine store. You could go to a grocery store instead, but part of the charm is visiting the various shops to gather your goodies.

**A picnic along the River Seine is a delightful way to enjoy a sampling of Paris treats while taking in river and city views.** (I packed a couple of plastic forks, knives, and cups just for this purpose!)

Finding Bathrooms in Paris

Let’s be real: knowing where to find a bathroom when you need one can make any day of sightseeing much more relaxed. Paris has public restrooms scattered around the city, but they’re not always easy to spot, and accessibility can vary. Hare are some bathroom tips:

Use restaurant, café, or museum facilities when you can as they tend to be clean and accessible (even if the need is not that great while there).
Carry small change like €0.50 or €1.00 for using public bathrooms.
Bring a travel-size pack of tissues, as some public bathrooms do not have toilet paper (as mentioned above).
The Flush app lists public bathrooms. There are public bathrooms along some Paris streets, but I’ve heard mixed reviews on them.
In restaurants and cafés, the bathrooms are sometimes located downstairs, which may be difficult for those with mobility impairments.

**The Medici Fountain in Jardin du Luxembourg (Luxembourg Gardens)**.

Safety & Security in Paris

Cities that draw large numbers of visitors, like Paris, are also hotspots for pickpockets and petty theft. A simple step, such as carrying a cross-body bag that zips shut, keeping wallets in front pockets or tucked out of sight in a money belt, and leaving unnecessary valuables at home, can go a long way in protecting your belongings. An important thing to remember is situational awareness — simply be aware of your surroundings wherever you are, like the metro and busy tourist destinations.

10 Safety Rules

Take pictures of your passport, driver’s license, and the fronts and backs of the credit/debit cards you’ll be using, and store them in your smartphone’s photos or notes app—or email them to yourself. Having that information handy can help if any of the items are lost or stolen.
Make a copy of your passport and driver’s license and tuck them in your luggage in case you lose them. You could also leave one with a family member back home who’s not traveling with you.
Store passports, extra cash and other valuables in a money belt (worn between you shirt and pants) out of view — or use the hotel safe.
Never put wallets or phones in back pockets.
Use bank-affiliated ATMs in well-lit places.
Resist using public WiFi. Some bad actors may infiltrate your device and could install malware or steal your data.
Watch for common scams: “helpful” strangers at ATMs, fake petitions, con artists drawing people to a streetside shell game while his team members pickpocket travelers who are watching the spectacle, distraction spills, and overpriced taxi rides.
Use a crossbody bag or sling bag that zips shut and keep it in front of you to house your wallet, smartphone, and other valuables needed during the day while you’re out.
Stay alert in busy places, like train stations, tourist attractions, and busy plazas.
Trust your instincts — if something feels off, walk away.

U.S. STEP Program

For American travelers, consider enrolling in the U.S. Department of State’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). This free service provides travel alerts, emergency updates, and local warnings (particularly helpful in finding out about protests where you’ll be). When traveling, it also helps the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate contact you in an emergency.

Final Thoughts

Paris is more than just a destination—it’s an experience that stays with you long after you’ve returned home. With a bit of preparation, even the most mundane aspects of your journey—such as navigating the Metro or finding a suitable bathroom—can become seamless parts of your adventure. Whether you’re sipping espresso in a sunny plaza, standing beneath the Eiffel Tower, or simply wandering through a quiet garden, Paris invites you to slow down and savor every moment. I hope these tips help you feel confident and excited about your trip. Bon voyage—and enjoy every step of your Parisian journey!