Beginner Travel Guide to Paris, France
Visiting Paris for the first time can be a daunting experience because there are a lot of specifics to think about and so much to do. Here’s a travel guide with an accumulation of the aspects of Paris I think are most important for first-time visitors to know.
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When to Visit
So far, my favorite time in Paris has been in July/August when most locals are on vacation. This does mean that some places aren’t open, but it also means fewer crowds. You can’t really go wrong any time you visit.
What to Pack
The most important thing to have with you is comfortable shoes. Everyone always says that you “have to wear neutrals and blend in”, but honestly wear whatever makes you comfortable and just don’t wear athleisure and you’ll be fine. It is easiest if you can mix and match clothes so you don’t have to bring as much (and a packing list helps as well).
The main instance where you should look presentable is if you’re going to a nice restaurant or out to a bar or club. I don’t agree with this, but some bars or clubs don’t let you in if you’re wearing sneakers or men in if they’re wearing shorts.
Some of my favorites:
Where to Stay
I usually recommend staying in an Airbnb over hotels, but if you’re visiting Paris for the first time, hotels have perks that can’t be matched.
Hotels
If it’s your first time visiting Paris, it may be better to book a hotel just for convenience. The main thing to think about is location compared to the sights you want to see
There is always someone at the front to help you with anything you need and hotels usually have packages with discounts to different sights and activities around the city
The ability to check in or out at any time and have them hold your bags
The majority of hotels have air conditioning vs Airbnbs
Make sure to know that hotels in Europe are usually much smaller than in the US
Airbnbs
Staying in Airbnbs can be amazing because it feels like you're living where you're visiting and you can find more unique places compared to Hotels.
The main thing to watch out for is Airbnb scams. I haven’t experienced it but have heard that some places are fake so just something to look out for
The downside to consider is the lack of a front desk for late check-in/out and the inability to check in bags if you still want to walk around the city on the day you check out.
Also if you need air conditioning make sure to check that it is listed as a feature on the Airbnb
How to Get Around
Public Transportation
The Paris metro is actually pretty easy to understand. When visiting for a short period of time, I recommend getting the pass and zones 1-3. When you’re on the machine getting your ticket, it may be confusing, but there are usually employees around to ask any questions!
Taxis and Ubers
Taxis are everywhere but I still like to use Uber since they just seem safer to me with the app and the driver’s information. Plus, I left my phone in a taxi one time, and if it was an Uber I would’ve been able to call them and ask them to bring it back to me (from my friend’s phone obv ha).
Where to Go
There are so many things to see in Paris, but below are the must-see places in Paris that everyone asks about and you will probably regret not going to. Sign up for my newsletter at the bottom of this page to get my full list of Paris recommendations for restaurants, activities, hotels, and Airbnbs along with a guide on what French to know before you go!
Exploring on your own is nice, but going on tours gives you an inside look at the city and lets you enjoy the sights without stressing about where you’re going. I recommend booking a tour based on your interests, especially if you are a first-time visitor.
Eiffel Tower
I suggest not climbing up unless you think you’ll really regret not being able to say you did it. The thing about being at the top of the Eiffel Tower is the fact that you then can’t see the Eiffel Tower.
Arc de Triomphe
I love climbing up at sunset to see the amazing view along with the twinkling Eiffel Tower. The climb can be a lot since it’s a spiral staircase, so be prepared for that.
Sacré-Cœur
I absolutely love Sacré-Cœur inside and out. The views of Paris from outside are amazing and the interior is beautiful. You can also climb it to get an even better view of Paris, but it’s not needed.
This is the view from the top of the hill. If you are at the front of the church looking at it, go left and follow the street a little down and you’ll see a large fence you can view through.
Musée du Louvre
Make sure you know what you want to see since there are so many choices. There are also options to take a tour if you want to have a guide and learn even more about the most important works of art.
Notre-Dame
Notre-Dame is beautiful, but I personally enjoy Sacré-Cœur much more. Obviously, it’s worth seeing Notre-Dame because it’s iconic, but I recommend Sacré-Cœur 😊
Musée de l’Orangerie
I’m obsessed with everything in Musée de l’Orangerie, especially since I love Monet. The oval rooms with the waterlily paintings surrounding you are amazing. I highly recommend visiting here.
Jardin des Tuileries
My favorite park in Paris. In between the Louvre and Musée de l’Orangerie is an amazing garden that doesn’t have many activities, but is a great place to relax and walk around.
Jardin du Luxembourg
Another wonderful park to walk around, sit, and relax in. There is also a great playground that I played in when I visited as a child and sometimes there are pony rides! It’s perfect for kids.
Walk along the Seine
Simply walking along the Seine or choosing a spot to sit is one of my favorite things to do. It will never get old and is so nice to people-watch as well. It’s even better if you get a crepe or sandwich and wine to bring with you!
Paris Museum Pass
If you’re planning on going to multiple monuments, it may be best to get the Paris Museum Pass to save money on admissions. You can order them online or get them at the Paris Tourist Office.
Whether you’re visiting for 2 days or 20, make sure you research and know what parts of Paris are personally important for you to see. Try to have somewhat of a plan to prevent you from being overwhelmed by the amazing options.
Planning your trip?
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Other Tips
Two Parisian stereotypes are that they don’t like Americans and that there are pickpocketers everywhere.
Just make sure you say bonjour when you walk into anywhere or walk up to anyone and that’s the main thing to do. As long as you’re kind and showing you’re trying (not being too loud/obnoxious) you’ll be good😊 There are rude people everywhere so don’t take it personally
Yes, there is a higher chance of getting pickpocketed in Paris than in the US. I never have been thankfully. Just be aware of your surroundings and you should be fine
I recommend having a bag that closes if possible and if you’re in a crowded area put your bag in front of you
The main thing to watch out for is if someone comes up to you asking for you to sign a petition, DON’T. Just walk away or ignore it
