Paris is walkable, safe with normal big-city cautions, and runs on the Metro/RER. Book dinner reservations, carry a chip-and-PIN card, learn a few bonjour/merci basics, and pack for changeable weather.
Best time to visit (quick guide)
- Spring (Apr–May): Mild temps, blossoms, lighter crowds than summer.
- Summer (Jun–Aug): Long days, peak crowds; reserve attractions and restaurants early.
- Autumn (Sep–Oct): Pleasant weather, great for food markets and museums.
- Winter (Nov–Mar): Quietest (except Christmas/NY). Colder, but excellent for museums and bakeries.
Local tip: Paris is a year-round museum city; if you’re flexible, aim for shoulder seasons (May/late Sep).
Neighborhood snapshot (where to base)
- Le Marais (3rd/4th): Boutiques, cafés, easy walking to the Seine—great for first-timers.
- Latin Quarter & Saint-Germain (5th/6th): Bookish vibe, brasseries, central.
- Opéra/Grands Boulevards (1st/2nd/9th): Shopping, covered passages, transit connections.
- Canal Saint-Martin/Republic (10th/11th): Young, food-forward, more local feel.
- Montmartre (18th): Villagey hills and viewpoints; expect stairs and slopes.
Choose somewhere near a Metro line you’ll use often; Paris is compact once you’re underground.
Getting in & around
Airports & trains
- Paris is served by major airports; from each you can reach the center by train/RER, bus, or taxi/ride-hail. Trains are often the fastest at rush hour.
- If arriving by high-speed train, central stations (e.g., Gare du Nord/Lyon/Est/Montparnasse) connect directly to the Metro.
Public transport basics
- Metro & RER: Dense network; trains every few minutes. RER is the suburban express that also crosses the city. Trains run every few minutes. For passes, zones and airport links, see Paris Metro & RER Explained
- Tickets & passes: You can buy single rides or load a rechargeable card from station machines/counters. Passes make sense if you’ll ride a lot within a few days.
- Buses & trams: Great for short hops and sightseeing above ground.
- Etiquette: Let riders exit first; stand right on escalators; keep bags in front of you.
- Night: Late services run, but frequencies drop—check last-train times.
Taxis & ride-hail
- Official taxi ranks are reliable; ride-hail apps work widely. Confirm the car and plate before getting in.
Pro move: Save your accommodation address offline (notes/screenshot) for drivers and for when mobile data is spotty.
Money, payments & tipping
- Currency: Euro (€). ATMs are common; avoid dynamic currency conversion—pay in EUR.
- Cards: Chip-and-PIN cards are widely accepted; contactless is common in shops and cafés. Carry a backup card and small cash for markets.
- Tipping: Service is usually included in menu prices. Round up small bills or leave 5–10% for exceptional service; not mandatory like in the US.
- Bills: Keep ID handy—some shops may ask with cards.
Safety & common scams
Paris is generally safe; treat it like any big city.
- Pickpockets: Especially around major sights and in crowded Metro lines. Keep phone zipped and bag in front.
- Clipboard/petition scams: Firm “Non, merci” and keep walking.
- Friendship bracelet near Montmartre: Don’t engage—hand stays by your side.
- ATMs: Use indoor bank ATMs; cover the keypad.
- Night walks: Main avenues are fine; prefer lit streets and use transport late at night.
Connectivity & power
- eSIM/SIM: If your phone supports eSIM, set it up before travel or buy on arrival; otherwise physical SIMs are easy to find.
- Sockets: Type E (compatible with some Type F plugs). Voltage 230V. Bring a universal adapter and a small power strip if you carry cameras/laptops.
Language & etiquette
- Basics help a lot:
- Bonjour / Bonsoir (hello/good evening)
- S’il vous plaît (please) • Merci (thank you)
- L’addition, s’il vous plaît (the check, please)
- Parlez-vous anglais ? (Do you speak English?)
- Greetings matter: Open with Bonjour when entering shops/cafés; it sets the tone.
- Voice & space: Keep conversation volume moderate; avoid blocking sidewalks.
- Dining pace: Meals are unhurried; ask for the check when ready. Many places appreciate reservations, especially for dinner.
Eating & drinking (practical)
- Reservations: Popular bistros book up—reserve a few days ahead; walk-ins at lunch are easier.
- Water & bread: Tap water is safe; ask for une carafe d’eau. Bread is usually included.
- Coffee: Espresso is the default; café crème or latte is a morning thing—afternoons are more espresso.
- Dietary needs: Menus mark allergens more often now; always ask politely.
- For budget-friendly picks, check Best Affordable Bistros in Paris
What to pack (smart list)
- Shoes: Broken-in, water-resistant walking shoes. Cobblestones + sudden showers.
- Layers: Light jacket/rain shell even in summer; compact umbrella.
- Day bag: Zippered crossbody or small backpack worn in front on transit.
- Power & data: Universal adapter, power bank, offline maps, screenshots of bookings.
- Dress code: Smart casual carries you from museums to bistros without outfit changes.
Tickets & bookings to sort before you go
- Major museums/attractions: Time-slots can sell out—pre-book when you must see a headliner.
- Special restaurants: Lock dinner reservations.
- Airport transfer on arrival night: If landing late, consider arranging in advance.
- Travel insurance: Always a good idea for delays and medical needs.
If you’re short on time, follow our Perfect 48 Hours in Paris
FAQ
Is Paris walkable?
Yes—many sights cluster along/near the Seine. Expect 10–15k steps/day on typical itineraries; combine with Metro to save time.
Which pass should I buy?
If you’ll ride transit many times daily for several consecutive days, a multi-day pass/card is convenient. If you’ll walk most of the time and ride occasionally, single rides or a reloadable card are fine.
Do shops and restaurants accept cards?
Widely yes. Keep a small amount of cash for markets and tiny cafés.
Is tap water safe?
Yes. Ask for “une carafe d’eau” to get free tap water at restaurants.
What about Sundays/holidays?
Some shops close or keep shorter hours; museums often close one day per week (varies). Always check hours.
