Like any city in the world, Paris has a mode d’emploi—a sort of unvoiced user manual for making the most of your stay. If you are unaware of the basics, it can be very frustrating. And nobody likes being out of place as a tourist, especially in an incredibly chic city like Paris.
To avoid that, here are some important Paris travel tips for you to keep in mind as you explore the “City of Love.”
- The best time to visit Paris:
The best time to visit Paris is between April and June and from October to early November. This period encases the prime of Paris. The weather is also pleasant, so a coat and scarf are more than enough to keep you comfortable.
However, Paris is a year-round destination. The summertime from June to September is also a splendid time to be outdoors and enjoy the summer festivities to the fullest. On the other hand, winter in Paris is hard, but the charm of Christmas and the cheap rates on everything, be it flights or hotels, entices everyone to visit Paris.
- Know how to use public transport:
Public transport is the best and the cheapest way around central Paris (other than walking of course!). And on the plus side, the metro/tram is open late, so it won’t hinder your style if you want to enjoy some nightlife or theater.
- ATMS:
Since you’re travelling to Paris, you’re obviously going to spend some or maybe a lot of money, whether it’s to shop or to enjoy the events around.
ATMs are the cheapest and safest way to take out your money in Paris. The best area to withdraw money is at the airport, where there are almost 25 ATMs or distributors across all the terminals. The ATM withdrawal rates are often cheaper than the commission that the currency exchange counters charge.
- Eat when the locals eat:
The French don’t do day-long dining. Lunch is normally from 12 to 2 p.m., and dinner from 8 to 10 p.m., though some places also keep going till midnight, especially on weekends. If you’re hungry between meals, you can always head for a bakery for snacks such as quiches or tiny pizzas.
- Mind your manners:
People can be pretty formal in France, so remember to always greet politely before asking for whatever you need. It’s even polite to greet other customers and the shopkeeper as well. Even if your French is pretty much non-existent, this way, you’re sure to win hearts!
- Find a view:
The best views in Paris are practically free! Be sure to head for the terrace in Montmartre, outside the Sacré Coeur basilica, or to the top of Galeries Lafayette department store in the ninth district.
- A meal at the Eiffel Tower:
The Eiffel Tower is an obligatory-to-visit tourist attraction on every traveller’s bucket list. Don’t just visit the top of the Tower; instead, have lunch or dinner in one of the restaurants inside the Tower.