Destination: Paris Travel Tips
Paris is one of those European cities you can travel to all year long! Paris was our first major European city, so it will always hold a special place in our hearts. Discover the history, amazing food, and iconic landmarks all in one place.
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What to Expect in Paris
Here are some practical things to expect when traveling to Paris, France.
Paris Population
The population in Paris is 2.161 million people.
Language
French is the national language. I would recommend downloading Google Translate. While English is widely understood, it is always appreciated to try and speak basic French. You will find people are much more welcoming!
Currency
The Euro is used in all of France.
Cards/ATMs
Credit Cards are widely accepted in Paris, and ATMs can be found everywhere. It is always good to have a couple of extra Euros on you for tipping.
Tipping in Paris
Tipping is not necessary, however, it is usually expected and appreciated. Rounding up to the nearest Euro generally is acceptable.
Paris Safety
In General, it is relatively safe to travel in Paris for Solo Female Travelers. Use regular caution and beware of pickpocketers. Never put your belongings down or carry lots of bags (making you look like an easy target).
Paris Airports
There are three airports in Paris which are the Charles de Gaulle (CDG), Paris-Orly Airport (ORY), and Paris Beauvais Airport (BVA). CDG is situated towards the northeast, Orly in the south, and Beauvais is the furthest north. To find the best ticket prices, check Skyscanner here.
Getting Around Paris
It’s very easy to get around Paris by using public transportation and traveling around on foot. Check out the app “Citymapper” (which was recommended to us by a local) to help navigate Public transportation and a general Map of Paris.
Power Outlets
France sockets are type E sockets. The standard voltage is 230 V, and the standard frequency is 50 Hz. I recommend using a universal adaptor.
Popular attractions in Paris
Some of the most popular attractions in Paris include the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame Cathedral, Louvre Museum, Arc of Triumph, Tuileries Gardens, and Palace of Versailles.
Popular Paris Dishes
While in Paris, make sure to try some popular Paris dishes.
- Croissants – A perfect flaky pastry that is usually served at breakfast!
- Escargots – Otherwise known as snails, these are served still in their shells with herbs and butter.
- Macarons – These are French sweets that are filled with a variety of different flavor fillings.
- Steak Tartare – This is a classic in Paris, this is a raw steak that you can sometimes find served with a raw egg yolk on top.
- Onion Soup – This is a famous comforting food in Paris, perfect for cooler days.
- Baguettes & Cheese
- Crepes
Cell Phone Service
Paris is a very populated city, therefore, you should expect the cell service to be extremely good. You can get a sim card in Paris or use an Esim. Always check with your cellphone provider that your cellphone is unlocked.
Check Holafly for an e-sim and use FINDLOVEANDTRAVEL for 5% OFF.
Paris Additional Guide Books
Best Time to Visit Paris
Paris is great all year round, particularly during the Spring (68°/46°F) and Fall(78°/55°F). We visited during the Spring and can attest to how lovely Paris is at this time of year. Besides the weather, there are many reasons to visit Paris in the Fall or Spring including fewer crowds!
If you don’t mind the cold or crowds, consider taking a visit during the holidays. The city is absolutely magical at this time of year including the rest of France!
Paris Travel Guides
Below find detailed Paris travel guides to help you plan the perfect itinerary for your visit! These Paris travel guides include tips and tricks for traveling in Paris, places to eat, the must-see areas in Paris you will not want to miss.
If you have extra time in France, check out some awesome day trips from Paris here!
Where to Stay in Paris
Paris is divided into 20 arrondissements. Our favorite neighborhood is in Saint-Germain-des-Prés. We stayed at an Airbnb in Place Saint-Michel. Other favorite neighborhoods are Le Marais, Eiffel Tower/Champs de Mars, and Champs-Élysées.
It is always best to book hotels well in advance in Paris, as rooms go quickly.
- Le Metropolitan a Tribute Portfolio Hotel
- Hyatt Regency Paris Etoile
- Hôtel Sèvres Saint Germain
- Hôtel Crayon Rouge
- Le Bristol Paris – an Oetker Collection Hotel
Paris Guided Tours
Experience Paris with a guided tour! A really popular tour many travelers do is the free walking tours. You can check them out here! If you pay for any tour in Paris, it should be a ride down the Seine at night! It is absolutely magical watching the Eiffel tower sparkle! Find River cruises here.
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