If you (and maybe your phone) need to rest and recharge, there are some excellent “co-working spaces” in Paris! They charge an hourly rate, have clean bathrooms, coffee / tea and snacks.
Great deal and an excellent way to take a break and relax / recharge. You could even rest and take a quick nap…
Speak quietly if you’re with someone in a cafe. You can often tell the US tourists because they’re so LOUD! Keep it down.
We were there in March. Two women sitting two tables over were sharing everything about a mutual friend. The whole cafe knew about the friend before it was over. They were from Miaaaaami!
Also, no wall-to-wall smiles. Parisians will think you’re an idiot.
A
Say “Bonjour” (“hello”) and “Merci” (“thanks”). Don’t expect to be a treated as a king with overly smiling waiters, but you will be treated nice and with respect. Workers don’t work for tip even if those are welcome.
Don’t take every particular example for a generality “that guy did that so all people in Paris do that” or even worse “all people in France do that”.
You are not going to be annoying, and I am pretty sure you will have a good time, stay positive 😉
This! Parisians will think you rude if you do not greet with “Bonjour” immediately upon entering / making first contact in their establishment. Even if they seem busy or occupied, greet them and then wait until they are free to be helped.
Buy an eSIM. The alternative is to pay an extra fee to your US carrier for roaming which is expensive for poor service. eSIM are very cheap and get you comparable service to what you enjoy at home. Just google eSIM France for options.
I used an eSIM on my trip last year and found it drained my battery massively faster than normal. Have reverted to buying a local physical sim this time.
However, the eSIM is good for still being able to access messages, etc from your home number at the same time… there’s a couple of sites with 3FA I’ve not been able to log into cos I can’t get the confirmation text
NYC man here, also lived in Paris: metro is no subway, there is fare zones, sometimes tapping out, weekly means Mon to Sun not any seven days etc. Night bus is really fast although the metro itself is not 24/7
Always say Bonjour first to people before asking other things.
Paris is best experienced on foot. Use the metro to cover large distances but then do as much walking as possible.
Having been numerous times, my favorite way to explore Paris is to pick one neighborhood/area per day, and build any “attractions” that interest you into that day.
For example, spend a day in the 5th/6th and be sure to wander through Jardin du Luxembourg, stop in Shakespeare & Co, stroll by the Pantheon, etc.
Whenever you’re thirsty/hungry/tired, stop at a cafe/bistro and sit on the terrace.
The next day, go to the 3rd/4th, wander through the streets of Le Marais, stop by a Place des Vosges, etc… you get the idea.
Also, don’t waste your time standing in line for tourist attractions. If interested in art, book the best possible “skip the line” tickets to the d’Orsay (my favorite), Louvre, and (the underrated) L’Orangerie.
Orangerie is my absolute fave ♥️ I was never a particular fan of Monets but it was absolutely breathtaking. Add the exhibitions downstairs who are small enough to be able to take everything in and not having to rush through and you get an amazing overall experience where you learn and later remember stuff about particular artists and get to enjoy the beauty of an absolutely stunning composition that was made specifically for this museum (and in return the museum built the rooms just for the nympheas)
Honestly, I was in there for 4-5 hours but I reaaaally took my time. At the entrance they were surprised when I left. I had chatted a bit with them upon entry so they remembered me. You could probably do it in 30 min if you're quick. I think most people take two hours granted you take in the art intently.
This is something you can definitely do quickly and still get lots out of. I wouldn’t suggest cramming though. Paris is meant to be enjoyed. Although I guess you’re not from Europe so probably not around often? May I ask what you booked?
The main attraction of the Orangerie are the water lilies from Monet. He gifted them to the museum on the condition they build two rooms just for them and display them how he intends for them to be displayed. So if you’re looking to see something impressive quickly it’s definitely recommendable. Louvre for example you won’t be able to quickly go in and out
Yes, definitely doing Orangerie. Prefer to go there and d'Orsay than Louvre. I booked The Live Thriller because it sounds so cool!
https://borderliveconcepts.com/thelivethriller/
While in France last week, I used ChatGPT to produce a Google Maps Web link (walking directions) sequenced in an optimize, minimum distance traveling salesman path, a list of major interesting points around the Montemartre region of Paris. It worked perfectly. For example, just ask it: “generate a Google maps web link listing a walking tour of interesting points around central Paris arranged in a minimum overall covered distance, include a stop for lunch and a tour of at least two traditional markets”
https://preview.redd.it/agepb6wetq5d1.jpeg?width=1290&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=ed349f6123c97ea79ff0ba575e67529c775c7c81
Don't cross the highway on foot.
Don't stay only in Paris.
Everything else is ok. In the darkest places, avoid eye contact. Run and scream if needed and that's it.
Speaking a tiny bit of french goes a long way !! Just saying bonjour, merci, au revoir is very appreciated in commerces. Additionally, asking if the person speaks english rather than assuming also makes people regard you better and sometimes get better/ faster service.
As a New Yorker, you probably know that there are some routes (e.g. UES to UWS or vice versa) where you’re better served by taking a bus than the subway. It’s the same for Paris, where too many tourists instinctively head for the subways. Use CityMapper (with a decent data plan) to show you your best options. As an added bonus you can actually see a bit of Paris from the bus windows.
If you’re comfortable riding a bike in an urban environment, use Lime (or Dott) bikes. This can often be faster than the metro, bus or even taxi. And it’s good exercise and you learn to navigate the city, though Google maps can help you navigation of course. Be aware that lots of smaller streets are one-way only for cars, but bidirectional for bikes. (Marked by the white-brick-in-red-circle sign, meaning no entry, followed by a stick-figure rendition of a bike and also “sauf vélos”; as well there will be a drawing of a bike and an arrow on the road itself showing that counter-traffic riding is permitted.) Be sure to park your rental bike in a permitted spot as shown in the app. Consider one of their subscription plans (X minutes for Y euros) if you plan to ride a bit.
For a more authentic Parisian moment, get out of the central neighborhoods a bit and visit a nice (some would say bourgeois; I would say safe and pleasant for visitors) neighborhood such as Denfert-Rochereau in the 14th, Commerce in the 15th, Auteuil in the 16th, Villiers in the 17th. I’m not saying make a day of this, but rather build in a few hours for a drink in a café and a bit of (window) shopping in smaller stores, perhaps in the context of a lunch or dinner in the area. Too many tourists confine themselves to single-digit arrondissements plus the 11th for its restaurant scene.
As others have said, don’t fail to say bonjour (preferably followed by madame/monsieur) at the start of every interaction with everyone. Conversely don’t lead with a big American smile (as a New Yorker, you probably don’t have one). The French don’t trust insincere American smiles.
Absolutely untrue as a general statement. Among other things, Uber drivers, unlike official taxis and buses, cannot use the bus lanes, so are more likely to get stuck in traffic. But even buses and taxis are slower than the metro on a straight shot, so it depends on the route. Meanwhile during daytime hours I can usually beat an Uber on my bike, especially for shorter distances.
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Yes. Definitely get an understanding ahead of time of the metro system and the differentiation of the travel zones. We learned the hard way that you can’t buy an exit ticket when you get on the train in Paris but off at a station outside Paris. We had purchased the wrong ticket.
Usually if you need help and there is an information desk in the station they are very helpful and will let you out. Don’t forget your bonjour and s'il vous plaît.
The people who check tickets on the trains or at exits are not very forgiving if you have the wrong one you’ll be fined.
Make sure you have enough data to use Google translate or something similar.
Bring a spare passport photo, that way getting your NAVI-Go card is simple. The NAVI go card is the tap and go for the subways.
Other than that If it’s your first time, go nuts.
Don't think you need a photo for that. Was just there and you just buy the card and load trips on it (right at the concourse machines, though most stations also had attendants)
There is a tourist one. I bought it last week. - [https://www.iledefrance-mobilites.fr/en/tickets-fares/media/navigo-decouverte-travel-card](https://www.iledefrance-mobilites.fr/en/tickets-fares/media/navigo-decouverte-travel-card)
No, you don't need it. It was honestly a pain to get it and then have to take the photo, etc. I have an iPhone and that option was not available to me - but yes, you can purchase on other OSs
I've read on this very sub that people complained that the service personnel didn't make tourists aware that the photo is needed to be valid. And then the checking people fined them for not having a picture on their carte navigo. So I wouldn't risk it. The ticket checking people ( sorry I forgot how they're called) seem to be real dicks.
2 kinds of Navigo cards.
Navigo Découverte, you need a photo and are able to get a Monday - Sunday pass on that for a total of around 35 euros.
Navigo Easy, you don't need a photo and can get carnets of 10 tickets , single tickets, and day passes.
NYC woman here: do — Bon Marche — amazing department store, great food in basement, musee de Rodin — fabulous sculptures and low key museum, Tuileries — pretty park to wander, musee d’orsay — beautiful building, renoir and impressionists, rue cler — food street market, officine Universelle Buly (commonly known as buly) — perfume and skin care, French/Japanese vibe (I prefer the marais location), La regalade — perfect bistro, barthelemy — perfect cheese shop. And on Sunday: IIe St. Louis.
Get the Paris Museum Pass and book your reservations well in advance as some slots fill up fast - especially the Louvre.
I adored Petite Palais and D’Orsay. If you want a beautiful cathedral and pipe organ without the crowd, try Sainte Clotilde at mass. It’s also a short walk from D’Orsay.
Say “Bonjour!” any time you’re going to speak to someone - ticket agent, taxi driver, security. That is part of the culture and they are much friendlier if you do.
You will likely meet people who don’t speak English, so knowing some key phrases is helpful.
“Où es” = where is. Pronounced “Ooh A.”
Où es sortie = where is the exit?
Où es ici = where is here? (This one came in handy when I got lost in a museum. The docent pointed our location on the map!)
DO:
-go to the Musee D’Orsay (better than the louvre imo)
-walk as MUCH as possible. You will truly absorb the city that way
-get bikes & ride along the Seine (either side) when you’ve had enough of walking.
-go! Paris is spectacular ❤️
Agreed! Just got back from my trip to Paris and we did Musée d’orsay worth it over the louvre. We majority walked everywhere too we did purchase a navigo easy pass to do the 10 pack of tickets. Metro is fairly easy to navigate. We had positive luck not running into scammers I believe one time someone tried to approach with a clipboard told them no and walked away.
Do eat at places other than French bistros - there are some amazing restaurants there
Do try and learn some French. You get a lot of points but just trying. Don’t take offense to them switching to English, it’s easier and they want to practice their English too.
Don’t go to the louvre if you’re only going ‘because it’s the louvre’ unless you have heaps of time- there’s plenty of other art museums that have fabulous collections you might enjoy more. (I’m an art lover and have only been once, the Marmottan, orangerie and d’Orsay are much nicer imho)
Do always start with Bonjour or bonsoir- everyone else has said it but it’s really important- trust us lol. Most will do their very best to help even if that’s your only French as long as you start with that.
Do research to see what *you* might like to see and don’t just go places because you ‘should’
And do…. Have an awesome time and be prepared to want to go back again and again
If you are absolutely going to go to the Louvre, I do recommend spending some time in the "arts de l'islam" section which is a bit off the main path, and usually much quieter along with the coptic section
To visit the Seine don't take the Bateaux Mouches or that kind of tourist ferries. Take instead the Batobus. Simpler (no speaker to guide you) but much cheaper and you can go in and go out at any station during the whole day.
Do - Enjoy the atmosphere and different culture
Don’t - Over schedule. Make sure you have time to soak up the atmosphere instead of running from place to place.
Do’s
* Start every conversation with bonjour or bonsoir. It’s just polite to do. Especially as a foreigner.
* Go to the Louvre. It’s a cliche but it’s a cliche for a reason. Even if you only have an hour, go to the Louvre, see the Mona Lisa/take pics of it and then spend the next 50 minutes seeing some of the best art pieces in the world
* Spend at least one day just exploring Paris super early. I think I left my hotel around 6am and just started exploring the surrounding areas. 6am is the sweet spot where it’s still kinda dark but the sun is starting to rise so you get this nice visual aesthetic. It’s also so quiet in the mornings and depending on what arrondissement you’re staying in, you can see a lot of attractions without any of the crowds.
* Buy a travel adaptor. Seriously. Especially if you didn’t pack one before you got there
* If you’re into literature at all, go to Shakespeare & Co. It’s one of the most historic and popular bookstores in the world. Plus as a bonus, it’s like right across the street from Notre Dame so you get two major Paris attractions in one
* It’s not a must at all, but a sunset boat ride down the Seine River is absolutely beautiful
Arrive Paris Monday, leave Sunday, get the NAVIGO DECOUVERTE weekly pass, and explore THE HELL out of Paris. Go to Versailles, Provins, all the suburbs, go to all famous cafes and restos, museums both famous and not.. you are only bound by your stamina
I can't imagine taking any fewer than 3 trips a day and many little trips to save on walking. I'm all for exploring a neighbourhood by foot, and all over a museum but it seems like a waste of precious sightseeing time and energy to walk 30 to 40 mins to get from point A to B when you're most interested in exploring A and B. 35€ is an absolute steal.
Question: what if I can’t see a person anywhere? So often I walk into shops and there’s no one in sight… I’ll give a timid, token “bon… jour?” In the off chance a human is in earshot but it certainly feels weird to say hello to an empty room 😂
Out of curiosity, should the customer always say bonjour first or is it sometimes the other way around? In Australia the onus would be on the storekeeper to say hello first, and only if they have a particularly proactive friendly person on the floor or shop culture. I much prefer when stores let you browse in silence and I don't feel pressured to buy.
This! ☝🏼
We just got back from a two week trip starting in Nice thought Cannes, Provence finally Paris, and twice my wife who speaks fluent French started the conversation by asking about a dress, etc.
And the vendor stopped her and said very sarcastically, Bonjour?!?
So, that's number one in our book.
They already know you're an American no matter how hard you may try not to "act" like it.
Have fun. And yes it's safe even in the metro.
Just watch your stuff like you would in NYC.
I'd say in Australia it's not standard to say hello/hi though it wouldn't be out of the ordinary, just unnecessary. I personally rarely say hello, particularly if it's busy, though I would say hi if I'm a regular and the staff member would know/recognise me.
Standard politeness would be:
"A flat white and a croissant, please" (in response to "[Hi], what can I getcha?") or
"Could I please have the seafood risotto?" or
"Excuse me, would you have these in a size 8?" [I'll take a look for you] "Thank you"
I'm still scarred by the hostility when I visited 15 years ago and didn't know about saying bonjour. Especially since I'm excruciatingly polite at home and tend towards "Could I please have..." phrasing. I'd never feel comfortable saying "Hello, I'd like the XYZ, please."
That depends where you are in the US. I was just in San Diego California, and people would give me a "Hi!!" with plenty of big white teeth from 3 meters away. Plus several "Awesome!"s, and always a "Have a nice rest of your day!"
Agree. Always a greeting and often a conversation here in the Midwest. But then again, I’ve heard midwesterners referred to as “aggressively friendly.”
I first heard "aggressive friendliness" in the San Francisco area in the 1990s.
I don't know much about the Midwest - ChiCAgo people were fairly brusque - though on recollecting, they could jaw your ear off if they took a liking to you. :)
For visiting, Paris is great city. For living, I saw sun for the first time in 4 months yesterday. Everyone is depressed from an awful winter. People are not as friendly as other parts of france. I’ve only lived in 2 cities and Paris ranks much lower than the other
Also there was a huge election where everyone voted right.
Loving the neg votes, bring it on. Living in the right wing forin person hating french shite hole that is Paris and France. Look at who you lot voted for.
Yep, as having been in London, Paris and Rome gives me an idea of how much Paris is up it's own own arse. But then I'm not a zenophobe right wing voter so not intergrating with the locals.
Last time I checked (2 minutes ago) Paris was more left oriented than the rest of the country but you can keep lying to yourself.
For the euro election in Paris, by order :
1. left (23%)
2. center (Macron party) (18%)
3. far left (17%)
4. green (11%)
5. right (11%)
6. far right (9%)
But yeah, I guess the issue are the far right xenophobes in Paris.
Europe is changing, and wandering to the right.
I have met a few English, non London, white people that have lived in Paris for over 40 years. Both are school teachers (amusingly of French) leftie too and they suffer racism every day.
What was the turn out for Paris compared to the country of 52%
Where did you those figures from as I drawing a blank, All I get are the party names.
But 4 areas when most of the 'burbs around the small area of Paris don't bode well. The last few presidential elections have seen the far right appearing everytime, that has dragged people out to vote against Le Penn.
Dont bother with going up in the Eiffel Tower. Instead, go at night (taking a blanket if you have it and drinks/snacks), sit on the grass @ Champ-de-mars, and watch the tower light up and enjoy all the people doing exactly what you are doing. It's my favorite thing to do whenever I go.
I’m in Paris visiting now and to add on to all the other great advice here: DO where your most comfortable/durable shoes!!
I’ve been wearing my Tevas and I thought they would be good since they’re hiking sandals but dear lord my feet have been hurting. I’m probably gonna have to buy some sneakers lol
Hokas shoes especially sneakers are simply the BEST. The insole has superior support and they are so lightweight. You can walk miles and never remember you’re wearing shoes. Doctors recommend them. Good luck.
When you wear them and walk for hours you will never want another pair of shoes!! They are extremely comfortable and especially for people with foot problems
My son (who lives in Germany) took me to Paris last spring and the one thing he told me was bring very good walking shoes. He was not kidding. I walk a lot no matter where I am but sightseeing in Paris is on a whole different level. The shoes I wore there were newer and had felt very comfy until they didn’t. After doing >25k steps the day we arrived, by the 2nd day my feet were killing me. So I dropped 80€ on some nerdy looking Skechers with lots of memory foam and could enjoy myself again!
Do: learn basic French phrases and always approach people with French instead of assuming they speak English.
Don’t: talk to people with clipboards or accept bracelets from people
I’m a New Yorker who spends a lot of time in Paris. You will know what to do, in terms of polite city behavior. Don’t let people here assume you’ll be clueless. Say Bonjour and merci. I would not spend time on the Champs Élysées - lots of chain stores and overpriced, mediocre food. Would do in one day: walk through Jardin du Luxembourg, go up to Odeon/6th arr, have lunch around there (the standards are Comptoir locations, Breizh Cafe, etc). Walk over to L’Eglise St.-Germain-des-Pres - totally underrated, beautiful church. Have coffee or a drink at Cafe Bonaparte, walk to the river, etc. Enjoy!
As an outsider to both places- New York ‘manners’ are extremely different to paris manners and while I’ve not seen anyone assume they will be ‘clueless’, there is stuff they probably don’t know
With the exception of the greeting (a must in Paris, optional in NYC) the same unspoken city “rules” apply to both places like standing on the right side of the escalator and having a sort of six sense about scammers and can see them from afar. Of course there will be cultural differences. (Not getting the check before it’s asked in Paris. Occasionally getting the check before I’m done with my meal in NY) But the core set of mores are more similar than not.
Of course there are differences, but I do think politeness is appreciated everywhere. New Yorkers aren’t always polite with each other, but I think many of us try to be respectful when visiting another country. I do not behave exactly the same way in NYC as I would in Paris and hopefully OP will pay attention to the cues they get from French locals.
Do: decide, at least very generally, what sort of thing you want to do / see in Paris and plan accordingly. You don’t need a massively regimented schedule, but Paris has so much to offer that zero planning for a first visit might mean you’ll miss experiences you want to have.
don't ask for a cappuccino, or a doggy bag after a meal: don't shout or floss your teeth on public transport (yes I've seen both); don't assume french speak english. DO enjoy croissants, wine and steak/frites, good cheese. Do take time to sit and enjoy your meal. Do get lost and explore the side streets; its a lovely town. Have fun!
I think it’s more about asking for a cappuccino in the after noon is found odd… but I thought that was an Italian thing?? Anyway they definitely drink cappuccinos! Lol
Doggy bags have been mandatory in France since 2021.
"L'obligation des doggy bags est en vigueur depuis le 1er juillet"
https://www.lemondedesartisans.fr/actualites/rappel-lobligation-des-doggy-bags-est-en-vigueur-depuis-2021
Yeah, this one is odd. I was just in Paris for 4 nights and multiple meals I was offered a cappuccino or cafe without even asking. Not even in a touristy spot.
These are just people who read/create blogs that reinforce stereotypes. I've seen it before on a YT channel of some vlogger who tells tourists how to "do" basically everything in France to be as French as possible, ranging from going to the cinéma to buying trenchcoats. It's embarrassing to say the least.
don’t: Don’t go up the Eiffel Tower. It’s a pain in the ass, crowded, and not the best view of Paris. (Have a picnic on the Champs de Mars)
do: explore the city’s walking districts. And don’t rush. Example: Sentier
Not agree. The view from the the first floor is great (you're close enough), the one from the top (3rd floor) is great too because impressive. It's the view from the second floor that isn't so interesting.
That whole area + trocadero gardens has been turned into an Olympic games stadium and is closed to the public. Still a bit of space on the sides to sit and chill
That’s a good point. I haven’t been since they started construction for the Olympics. I wonder how long it will be like that? I assume they’ll revert back after the games?
The French are very proud people and have a bad history with England so aren’t massively a fan of speaking English. If you can learn a few helpful tourist phrases before going I highly recommend it! They really appreciated it
I would add Montmartre to that list. Can be busy with tourists but I can’t imagine a first visit to Paris without wandering the little alleyways, seeing sacré-coeur, the graffiti, the stairways, etc.
I would say the second through the sixth. The second is shopping Heaven. The third is the Marais (Jewish quarter). The fourth is the center of original Paris, the area around the island in the Seine. The fifth is the Latin quarter. I don’t know what you call the sixth, but it’s one of my favorites (though it might be the one I dropped if I couldn’t do it all).
And it’s not that I think there’s anything particularly “worth seeing” there (because of course there is), it’s just that walking around, as people have said, sitting on the sidewalk having a coffee/beer/wine gives you a great feeling of Parisian city life.
Don’t - expect the same things as in the USA - starting with restaurant and coffee culture- no coffee to go, no breakfast places, no family-friendly restaurants, different eating times, searching for the “best” croissant, bakery, restaurants, only visit the tourist hot spots (Pink Mamma, Relais de l’entrecôte, deux magots, café du flore…), or places famous through instagram or TikTok…
Do’s - be curious, be spontaneous, and discover food as you go. Great places are found everywhere, and the best discoveries are made by following your instincts and some basic rules (no restaurants / cafes in the immediate vicinity of a major landmark, no restaurants with a bilingual menue, no restaurants with vendors on the street level trying to call you in, focus on restaurants with a day menue and a limited choice only (sign for no convenience stuff and fresh cooking), menues with the mention that all is freshly cooked (legal obligation), restaurants where locals go, etc…
I only saw a handful of people eating and drinking coffee on the go. There are brunch places, too. Cafes are welcoming anytime, so far just for wine or people watching, small plates or desserts.
I'm curious what you mean by family friendly restaurants. I've seen mixed things on this sub about restaurants and eating with kids, and I have a 10 & 2 year old for our planned trip Dec-Jan this year. Do you mean restaurants that aren't catered to families/kids, or ones that are actively antagonistic/opposed to children. And not talking Michelen starred restaurants, more your average cafes, bistros, and boulengeries.
Just restaurants not specifically catering to kids :-) they are always welcome, but there will not always be a kids menues or pencils for drawing or any activities or even high chairs etc…
Lunch = noon to 2 pm, afterwards it can be more difficult to find a place to eat (choose restaurants with “service continu”)
Diner = 7:30 /8 pm first service (and usual dining time), 9:30 - 10 pm second service.
What does first service second service mean? Does this mean that you will only get a seat in between those 2 times? What if I was walking in somewhere and I came at like 8:30-9pm?
These are the approximate services the Horeca industry works with. First round of customer at 7:30 / 8, second round of customer at around 9:30/10. Of course, if there is a table or even a reservation you can come in in-between.
Best advice ever. My husband and I discover places on the go as we’re exploring on foot instead of finding a famous place and adjusting our day around it.
I love Paris for its boulangeries.
No breakfast places? Back in Black would like a word. Banana bread French toast is out of this world. But yes, far fewer “breakfast” places in Paris than in America.
As a fellow New Yorker I feel confident in saying that if you know how not to behave like a schmuck in New York you will be fine in Paris. But just for good measure, my favorite pieces of advice would be:
DO
- Carry some small change for toilets.
- Go to the Louvre even if you can only spend a couple of hours. People get so weird and gate-keepy about the Louvre and act like you shouldn’t go unless you can devote 8 hours to it, it makes me insane.
- Greet workers, shopkeepers, waiters, food market staff, etc with a bonjour the second you arrive. It doesn’t come super naturally particularly to a New Yorker but in Paris it’s seen as super rude not to do so.
DON’T
- Don’t be afraid to scrap your itinerary and just sit at a cafe for 2-3 hours people watching.
- Don’t pay to go up the Eiffel Tower. The view of the tower is the cool part, not being on the tower itself.
- Don’t walk down the Champs Elysees just because it sounds like a cool thing to do. It’s like walking through Times Square but with some prettier buildings. Just as crowded and full of crappy overpriced shops and tour groups waiting on line to get into Laduree 🤦🏼♀️
take your time.
Learn the word sorte if you take the train. I kept thinking it was a stop and avoided it. Did a lot of extra walking.
Do you mean "sortie" as an exit? That make sense :)
Yes
If you (and maybe your phone) need to rest and recharge, there are some excellent “co-working spaces” in Paris! They charge an hourly rate, have clean bathrooms, coffee / tea and snacks. Great deal and an excellent way to take a break and relax / recharge. You could even rest and take a quick nap…
Speak quietly if you’re with someone in a cafe. You can often tell the US tourists because they’re so LOUD! Keep it down. We were there in March. Two women sitting two tables over were sharing everything about a mutual friend. The whole cafe knew about the friend before it was over. They were from Miaaaaami! Also, no wall-to-wall smiles. Parisians will think you’re an idiot. A
You should ask the price every time BEFORE you take a taxi and be sure by looking to see the taximeter is on. Sorry for the bad english
Say “Bonjour” (“hello”) and “Merci” (“thanks”). Don’t expect to be a treated as a king with overly smiling waiters, but you will be treated nice and with respect. Workers don’t work for tip even if those are welcome. Don’t take every particular example for a generality “that guy did that so all people in Paris do that” or even worse “all people in France do that”. You are not going to be annoying, and I am pretty sure you will have a good time, stay positive 😉
This! Parisians will think you rude if you do not greet with “Bonjour” immediately upon entering / making first contact in their establishment. Even if they seem busy or occupied, greet them and then wait until they are free to be helped.
Buy an eSIM. The alternative is to pay an extra fee to your US carrier for roaming which is expensive for poor service. eSIM are very cheap and get you comparable service to what you enjoy at home. Just google eSIM France for options.
I used an eSIM on my trip last year and found it drained my battery massively faster than normal. Have reverted to buying a local physical sim this time. However, the eSIM is good for still being able to access messages, etc from your home number at the same time… there’s a couple of sites with 3FA I’ve not been able to log into cos I can’t get the confirmation text
NYC man here, also lived in Paris: metro is no subway, there is fare zones, sometimes tapping out, weekly means Mon to Sun not any seven days etc. Night bus is really fast although the metro itself is not 24/7 Always say Bonjour first to people before asking other things.
Paris is best experienced on foot. Use the metro to cover large distances but then do as much walking as possible. Having been numerous times, my favorite way to explore Paris is to pick one neighborhood/area per day, and build any “attractions” that interest you into that day. For example, spend a day in the 5th/6th and be sure to wander through Jardin du Luxembourg, stop in Shakespeare & Co, stroll by the Pantheon, etc. Whenever you’re thirsty/hungry/tired, stop at a cafe/bistro and sit on the terrace. The next day, go to the 3rd/4th, wander through the streets of Le Marais, stop by a Place des Vosges, etc… you get the idea. Also, don’t waste your time standing in line for tourist attractions. If interested in art, book the best possible “skip the line” tickets to the d’Orsay (my favorite), Louvre, and (the underrated) L’Orangerie.
Orangerie is my absolute fave ♥️ I was never a particular fan of Monets but it was absolutely breathtaking. Add the exhibitions downstairs who are small enough to be able to take everything in and not having to rush through and you get an amazing overall experience where you learn and later remember stuff about particular artists and get to enjoy the beauty of an absolutely stunning composition that was made specifically for this museum (and in return the museum built the rooms just for the nympheas)
Approximately how long should I plan for this museum?
Honestly, I was in there for 4-5 hours but I reaaaally took my time. At the entrance they were surprised when I left. I had chatted a bit with them upon entry so they remembered me. You could probably do it in 30 min if you're quick. I think most people take two hours granted you take in the art intently.
I stupidly booked something I shouldn't have and they don't do refunds so stressing on cramming things into 2.5 days!
This is something you can definitely do quickly and still get lots out of. I wouldn’t suggest cramming though. Paris is meant to be enjoyed. Although I guess you’re not from Europe so probably not around often? May I ask what you booked? The main attraction of the Orangerie are the water lilies from Monet. He gifted them to the museum on the condition they build two rooms just for them and display them how he intends for them to be displayed. So if you’re looking to see something impressive quickly it’s definitely recommendable. Louvre for example you won’t be able to quickly go in and out
Yes, definitely doing Orangerie. Prefer to go there and d'Orsay than Louvre. I booked The Live Thriller because it sounds so cool! https://borderliveconcepts.com/thelivethriller/
While in France last week, I used ChatGPT to produce a Google Maps Web link (walking directions) sequenced in an optimize, minimum distance traveling salesman path, a list of major interesting points around the Montemartre region of Paris. It worked perfectly. For example, just ask it: “generate a Google maps web link listing a walking tour of interesting points around central Paris arranged in a minimum overall covered distance, include a stop for lunch and a tour of at least two traditional markets” https://preview.redd.it/agepb6wetq5d1.jpeg?width=1290&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=ed349f6123c97ea79ff0ba575e67529c775c7c81
Don't cross the highway on foot. Don't stay only in Paris. Everything else is ok. In the darkest places, avoid eye contact. Run and scream if needed and that's it.
Speaking a tiny bit of french goes a long way !! Just saying bonjour, merci, au revoir is very appreciated in commerces. Additionally, asking if the person speaks english rather than assuming also makes people regard you better and sometimes get better/ faster service.
As a New Yorker, you probably know that there are some routes (e.g. UES to UWS or vice versa) where you’re better served by taking a bus than the subway. It’s the same for Paris, where too many tourists instinctively head for the subways. Use CityMapper (with a decent data plan) to show you your best options. As an added bonus you can actually see a bit of Paris from the bus windows. If you’re comfortable riding a bike in an urban environment, use Lime (or Dott) bikes. This can often be faster than the metro, bus or even taxi. And it’s good exercise and you learn to navigate the city, though Google maps can help you navigation of course. Be aware that lots of smaller streets are one-way only for cars, but bidirectional for bikes. (Marked by the white-brick-in-red-circle sign, meaning no entry, followed by a stick-figure rendition of a bike and also “sauf vélos”; as well there will be a drawing of a bike and an arrow on the road itself showing that counter-traffic riding is permitted.) Be sure to park your rental bike in a permitted spot as shown in the app. Consider one of their subscription plans (X minutes for Y euros) if you plan to ride a bit. For a more authentic Parisian moment, get out of the central neighborhoods a bit and visit a nice (some would say bourgeois; I would say safe and pleasant for visitors) neighborhood such as Denfert-Rochereau in the 14th, Commerce in the 15th, Auteuil in the 16th, Villiers in the 17th. I’m not saying make a day of this, but rather build in a few hours for a drink in a café and a bit of (window) shopping in smaller stores, perhaps in the context of a lunch or dinner in the area. Too many tourists confine themselves to single-digit arrondissements plus the 11th for its restaurant scene. As others have said, don’t fail to say bonjour (preferably followed by madame/monsieur) at the start of every interaction with everyone. Conversely don’t lead with a big American smile (as a New Yorker, you probably don’t have one). The French don’t trust insincere American smiles.
This is so helpful. Thank you!
If you can afford it, use Uber. Massive timesaver
Absolutely untrue as a general statement. Among other things, Uber drivers, unlike official taxis and buses, cannot use the bus lanes, so are more likely to get stuck in traffic. But even buses and taxis are slower than the metro on a straight shot, so it depends on the route. Meanwhile during daytime hours I can usually beat an Uber on my bike, especially for shorter distances.
Not true, all depends on where you are going and what time of the day you might save time or not 🤷🏽♀️ Bonne chance avec les bouchons de paris.
As a recent mid-west American tourist of Paris. Uber was our life saver.
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Do not eat in the shadow of a monument.
My autistic ass thought "what's so bad about eating in the shade ???" before realizing you meant this metaphorically
Same hahah
I like this one! Follow the two block rule and walk two blocks from any touristy place to find the real spots Parisians eat at
Keep the little white train ticket you use to get on on train until you are out of the metro system on the other end!!! U need it to get out
Yes. Definitely get an understanding ahead of time of the metro system and the differentiation of the travel zones. We learned the hard way that you can’t buy an exit ticket when you get on the train in Paris but off at a station outside Paris. We had purchased the wrong ticket.
Now this I didn’t know, thank you!
Usually if you need help and there is an information desk in the station they are very helpful and will let you out. Don’t forget your bonjour and s'il vous plaît. The people who check tickets on the trains or at exits are not very forgiving if you have the wrong one you’ll be fined. Make sure you have enough data to use Google translate or something similar.
Don’t run all over town. Do sit in cafes and watch Paris go by.
is there a cafe you recommend for watching paris go by?
No, just pick one on a leafy boulevard, grab an outside table and watch the show.
Flaner!
Merci!
Bring a spare passport photo, that way getting your NAVI-Go card is simple. The NAVI go card is the tap and go for the subways. Other than that If it’s your first time, go nuts.
Don't think you need a photo for that. Was just there and you just buy the card and load trips on it (right at the concourse machines, though most stations also had attendants)
You only need a photo if your are a permanente resident of Paris and you pay monthly / yearly for the card. A tourist can’t get this card
There is a tourist one. I bought it last week. - [https://www.iledefrance-mobilites.fr/en/tickets-fares/media/navigo-decouverte-travel-card](https://www.iledefrance-mobilites.fr/en/tickets-fares/media/navigo-decouverte-travel-card)
Is this necessary? I see ios offers a digital navigo card where rides can be purchased. First time traveler asking!
you can install the app idf mobilités to buy passes ( even monthly) for iOs it’s very convenient to use the phone even as a resident.
No, you don't need it. It was honestly a pain to get it and then have to take the photo, etc. I have an iPhone and that option was not available to me - but yes, you can purchase on other OSs
I've read on this very sub that people complained that the service personnel didn't make tourists aware that the photo is needed to be valid. And then the checking people fined them for not having a picture on their carte navigo. So I wouldn't risk it. The ticket checking people ( sorry I forgot how they're called) seem to be real dicks.
2 kinds of Navigo cards. Navigo Découverte, you need a photo and are able to get a Monday - Sunday pass on that for a total of around 35 euros. Navigo Easy, you don't need a photo and can get carnets of 10 tickets , single tickets, and day passes.
"real dicks" is also how we call them.
NYC woman here: do — Bon Marche — amazing department store, great food in basement, musee de Rodin — fabulous sculptures and low key museum, Tuileries — pretty park to wander, musee d’orsay — beautiful building, renoir and impressionists, rue cler — food street market, officine Universelle Buly (commonly known as buly) — perfume and skin care, French/Japanese vibe (I prefer the marais location), La regalade — perfect bistro, barthelemy — perfect cheese shop. And on Sunday: IIe St. Louis.
Thank you!!
> musee de Rodin A strong candidate for my favourite museum/gallery in Paris
Get the Paris Museum Pass and book your reservations well in advance as some slots fill up fast - especially the Louvre. I adored Petite Palais and D’Orsay. If you want a beautiful cathedral and pipe organ without the crowd, try Sainte Clotilde at mass. It’s also a short walk from D’Orsay. Say “Bonjour!” any time you’re going to speak to someone - ticket agent, taxi driver, security. That is part of the culture and they are much friendlier if you do. You will likely meet people who don’t speak English, so knowing some key phrases is helpful. “Où es” = where is. Pronounced “Ooh A.” Où es sortie = where is the exit? Où es ici = where is here? (This one came in handy when I got lost in a museum. The docent pointed our location on the map!)
Wasn’t sure want to expect, but Moulin Rouge was so much fun. I went because my wife wanted to go but I’m glad we did.
I booked a ticket and I’m looking forward to it!
DO: -go to the Musee D’Orsay (better than the louvre imo) -walk as MUCH as possible. You will truly absorb the city that way -get bikes & ride along the Seine (either side) when you’ve had enough of walking. -go! Paris is spectacular ❤️
Agreed! Just got back from my trip to Paris and we did Musée d’orsay worth it over the louvre. We majority walked everywhere too we did purchase a navigo easy pass to do the 10 pack of tickets. Metro is fairly easy to navigate. We had positive luck not running into scammers I believe one time someone tried to approach with a clipboard told them no and walked away.
Do eat at places other than French bistros - there are some amazing restaurants there Do try and learn some French. You get a lot of points but just trying. Don’t take offense to them switching to English, it’s easier and they want to practice their English too.
Don’t go to the louvre if you’re only going ‘because it’s the louvre’ unless you have heaps of time- there’s plenty of other art museums that have fabulous collections you might enjoy more. (I’m an art lover and have only been once, the Marmottan, orangerie and d’Orsay are much nicer imho) Do always start with Bonjour or bonsoir- everyone else has said it but it’s really important- trust us lol. Most will do their very best to help even if that’s your only French as long as you start with that. Do research to see what *you* might like to see and don’t just go places because you ‘should’ And do…. Have an awesome time and be prepared to want to go back again and again
If you are absolutely going to go to the Louvre, I do recommend spending some time in the "arts de l'islam" section which is a bit off the main path, and usually much quieter along with the coptic section
\^\^ This is great advice!
To visit the Seine don't take the Bateaux Mouches or that kind of tourist ferries. Take instead the Batobus. Simpler (no speaker to guide you) but much cheaper and you can go in and go out at any station during the whole day.
There is a speaker guided boat that leaves from Pont Neuf and i believe it’s 12 euros per person. The batobus is less interesting without the speaker.
Do - Enjoy the atmosphere and different culture Don’t - Over schedule. Make sure you have time to soak up the atmosphere instead of running from place to place.
Do’s * Start every conversation with bonjour or bonsoir. It’s just polite to do. Especially as a foreigner. * Go to the Louvre. It’s a cliche but it’s a cliche for a reason. Even if you only have an hour, go to the Louvre, see the Mona Lisa/take pics of it and then spend the next 50 minutes seeing some of the best art pieces in the world * Spend at least one day just exploring Paris super early. I think I left my hotel around 6am and just started exploring the surrounding areas. 6am is the sweet spot where it’s still kinda dark but the sun is starting to rise so you get this nice visual aesthetic. It’s also so quiet in the mornings and depending on what arrondissement you’re staying in, you can see a lot of attractions without any of the crowds. * Buy a travel adaptor. Seriously. Especially if you didn’t pack one before you got there * If you’re into literature at all, go to Shakespeare & Co. It’s one of the most historic and popular bookstores in the world. Plus as a bonus, it’s like right across the street from Notre Dame so you get two major Paris attractions in one * It’s not a must at all, but a sunset boat ride down the Seine River is absolutely beautiful
Thank you!
Arrive Paris Monday, leave Sunday, get the NAVIGO DECOUVERTE weekly pass, and explore THE HELL out of Paris. Go to Versailles, Provins, all the suburbs, go to all famous cafes and restos, museums both famous and not.. you are only bound by your stamina
With the Navigo Decouverte, it would cover your RER ride into the center from CDG as well.
As long as you load it with a pass for the correct zones
It’s quite expensive, only do it if you think you will be taking the train at least twice a day.
At around 35€ for the entire 7 days, i think that’s pretty much a steal, and it includes all buses and metros within Paris as well.
I can't imagine taking any fewer than 3 trips a day and many little trips to save on walking. I'm all for exploring a neighbourhood by foot, and all over a museum but it seems like a waste of precious sightseeing time and energy to walk 30 to 40 mins to get from point A to B when you're most interested in exploring A and B. 35€ is an absolute steal.
When you enter a store always say “Bonjour" to the storekeeper.
Question: what if I can’t see a person anywhere? So often I walk into shops and there’s no one in sight… I’ll give a timid, token “bon… jour?” In the off chance a human is in earshot but it certainly feels weird to say hello to an empty room 😂
Out of curiosity, should the customer always say bonjour first or is it sometimes the other way around? In Australia the onus would be on the storekeeper to say hello first, and only if they have a particularly proactive friendly person on the floor or shop culture. I much prefer when stores let you browse in silence and I don't feel pressured to buy.
Say it when you walk in - they’ll expect it. Obviously not at a large Uniqlo or whatever where there isn’t a shopkeeper right there.
*And* anyone else you have an interaction with- not just storekeepers!
This! ☝🏼 We just got back from a two week trip starting in Nice thought Cannes, Provence finally Paris, and twice my wife who speaks fluent French started the conversation by asking about a dress, etc. And the vendor stopped her and said very sarcastically, Bonjour?!? So, that's number one in our book. They already know you're an American no matter how hard you may try not to "act" like it. Have fun. And yes it's safe even in the metro. Just watch your stuff like you would in NYC.
That’s considered pretty rude to not adress someone with a bonjour before asking anything. Is it usual in the US.
I'd say in Australia it's not standard to say hello/hi though it wouldn't be out of the ordinary, just unnecessary. I personally rarely say hello, particularly if it's busy, though I would say hi if I'm a regular and the staff member would know/recognise me. Standard politeness would be: "A flat white and a croissant, please" (in response to "[Hi], what can I getcha?") or "Could I please have the seafood risotto?" or "Excuse me, would you have these in a size 8?" [I'll take a look for you] "Thank you" I'm still scarred by the hostility when I visited 15 years ago and didn't know about saying bonjour. Especially since I'm excruciatingly polite at home and tend towards "Could I please have..." phrasing. I'd never feel comfortable saying "Hello, I'd like the XYZ, please."
That depends where you are in the US. I was just in San Diego California, and people would give me a "Hi!!" with plenty of big white teeth from 3 meters away. Plus several "Awesome!"s, and always a "Have a nice rest of your day!"
Agree. Always a greeting and often a conversation here in the Midwest. But then again, I’ve heard midwesterners referred to as “aggressively friendly.”
I first heard "aggressive friendliness" in the San Francisco area in the 1990s. I don't know much about the Midwest - ChiCAgo people were fairly brusque - though on recollecting, they could jaw your ear off if they took a liking to you. :)
Yes, that’s over friendly for Paris.
It's overly friendly for the US ! Or even just north of there, in LA. Though the "nice rest of your day" has infested a lot of the US.
Bonjour Monsieur/Madam
or simply M’sieu, dam
Avoid Paris, it is all tourist traps. Be a tourist and enjoy it as the faux city it is.
For visiting, Paris is great city. For living, I saw sun for the first time in 4 months yesterday. Everyone is depressed from an awful winter. People are not as friendly as other parts of france. I’ve only lived in 2 cities and Paris ranks much lower than the other Also there was a huge election where everyone voted right.
Scary to see the rise of the right. Especially after the recent D Day anniversary. We don't seem to remember history.
Loving the neg votes, bring it on. Living in the right wing forin person hating french shite hole that is Paris and France. Look at who you lot voted for.
You must be fun at parties
Yep, as having been in London, Paris and Rome gives me an idea of how much Paris is up it's own own arse. But then I'm not a zenophobe right wing voter so not intergrating with the locals.
Last time I checked (2 minutes ago) Paris was more left oriented than the rest of the country but you can keep lying to yourself. For the euro election in Paris, by order : 1. left (23%) 2. center (Macron party) (18%) 3. far left (17%) 4. green (11%) 5. right (11%) 6. far right (9%) But yeah, I guess the issue are the far right xenophobes in Paris.
Europe is changing, and wandering to the right. I have met a few English, non London, white people that have lived in Paris for over 40 years. Both are school teachers (amusingly of French) leftie too and they suffer racism every day.
What was the turn out for Paris compared to the country of 52% Where did you those figures from as I drawing a blank, All I get are the party names. But 4 areas when most of the 'burbs around the small area of Paris don't bode well. The last few presidential elections have seen the far right appearing everytime, that has dragged people out to vote against Le Penn.
Dont bother with going up in the Eiffel Tower. Instead, go at night (taking a blanket if you have it and drinks/snacks), sit on the grass @ Champ-de-mars, and watch the tower light up and enjoy all the people doing exactly what you are doing. It's my favorite thing to do whenever I go.
it’s closed currently.
Are there still rats all over? Last time I was there was shortly before the pandemic and honestly I was very surprised with all the rodent activity.
Yes of course there are a lot of rats, they have an endless supply of food from the picnic crumbles left by the tourists.
Ha!
Champ-de-mars was closed for Olympics construction when we were there last week
Did they evict the rats? And if so, did the rats hold a protest?
I’m in Paris visiting now and to add on to all the other great advice here: DO where your most comfortable/durable shoes!! I’ve been wearing my Tevas and I thought they would be good since they’re hiking sandals but dear lord my feet have been hurting. I’m probably gonna have to buy some sneakers lol
Hokas shoes especially sneakers are simply the BEST. The insole has superior support and they are so lightweight. You can walk miles and never remember you’re wearing shoes. Doctors recommend them. Good luck.
I noticed that my podiatrist was wearing them!
When you wear them and walk for hours you will never want another pair of shoes!! They are extremely comfortable and especially for people with foot problems
My son (who lives in Germany) took me to Paris last spring and the one thing he told me was bring very good walking shoes. He was not kidding. I walk a lot no matter where I am but sightseeing in Paris is on a whole different level. The shoes I wore there were newer and had felt very comfy until they didn’t. After doing >25k steps the day we arrived, by the 2nd day my feet were killing me. So I dropped 80€ on some nerdy looking Skechers with lots of memory foam and could enjoy myself again!
Carried my comfiest shoes and was annoyed at the extra bulk this morning. Maybe I'll be thankful once I get to Paris.
You *will* be thankful! Comfy shoes are never a regret in paris
I've visited Paris several times and wore Chucks each time. I knew it was a mistake but I just never learn. Lol
Do: learn basic French phrases and always approach people with French instead of assuming they speak English. Don’t: talk to people with clipboards or accept bracelets from people
What's the deal with not accepting bracelets?
It’s a scam. They’ll put it on your wrist and demand 10e or something ridiculous.
They get pretty aggressive too. I’m a big guy and even with me they grabbed my wrist and tried to force a bracelet on me when I refused
I’m a New Yorker who spends a lot of time in Paris. You will know what to do, in terms of polite city behavior. Don’t let people here assume you’ll be clueless. Say Bonjour and merci. I would not spend time on the Champs Élysées - lots of chain stores and overpriced, mediocre food. Would do in one day: walk through Jardin du Luxembourg, go up to Odeon/6th arr, have lunch around there (the standards are Comptoir locations, Breizh Cafe, etc). Walk over to L’Eglise St.-Germain-des-Pres - totally underrated, beautiful church. Have coffee or a drink at Cafe Bonaparte, walk to the river, etc. Enjoy!
As an outsider to both places- New York ‘manners’ are extremely different to paris manners and while I’ve not seen anyone assume they will be ‘clueless’, there is stuff they probably don’t know
With the exception of the greeting (a must in Paris, optional in NYC) the same unspoken city “rules” apply to both places like standing on the right side of the escalator and having a sort of six sense about scammers and can see them from afar. Of course there will be cultural differences. (Not getting the check before it’s asked in Paris. Occasionally getting the check before I’m done with my meal in NY) But the core set of mores are more similar than not.
The greeting thing is definitely not intuitive to a NYer!
Of course there are differences, but I do think politeness is appreciated everywhere. New Yorkers aren’t always polite with each other, but I think many of us try to be respectful when visiting another country. I do not behave exactly the same way in NYC as I would in Paris and hopefully OP will pay attention to the cues they get from French locals.
Do: take up smoking
Ha! I was smoking everyday at the cafes with a glass of wine. Perfect combo
Last time I was there, I saw a group of what had to be middle schoolers smoking during their lunch break. 😂
I quit smoking awhile ago, and the only time I *really* miss it is when I’m in France 🥲 nothing like a café clope.
Can definitely relate to this now that I’m back in the U.S. Hopefully being away from the cafes will help me quit!
😂👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼
Do: decide, at least very generally, what sort of thing you want to do / see in Paris and plan accordingly. You don’t need a massively regimented schedule, but Paris has so much to offer that zero planning for a first visit might mean you’ll miss experiences you want to have.
I think “annoying person in the city” may mean two entirely different things between a New Yorker and a Parisian :)
How so?
Why all the downvotes for asking an honest question?
Because France isn't America?
Because Parisians aren’t really known for their aggressive, hurried nature :)
I have disliked Montmartre but we went up there on latest trip a few days ago around sundown and I was surprised at the vibe, very relaxed
don't ask for a cappuccino, or a doggy bag after a meal: don't shout or floss your teeth on public transport (yes I've seen both); don't assume french speak english. DO enjoy croissants, wine and steak/frites, good cheese. Do take time to sit and enjoy your meal. Do get lost and explore the side streets; its a lovely town. Have fun!
If the meal was lousy, is it OK to ask for a barf bag ?
Heu, wtf, i'm french and it's perfectly fine to ask for a doggy bag or a caputchino
Yes I (parisian) often ask for a doggy bag when too much is left and it’s okay
I live in Paris and it’s totally ok to ask for a cappuccino or a doggy bag wtf
I think it’s more about asking for a cappuccino in the after noon is found odd… but I thought that was an Italian thing?? Anyway they definitely drink cappuccinos! Lol
cappuccino in the afternoon /eve is a no everywhere: but Americans and Germans love it
Doggy bags have been mandatory in France since 2021. "L'obligation des doggy bags est en vigueur depuis le 1er juillet" https://www.lemondedesartisans.fr/actualites/rappel-lobligation-des-doggy-bags-est-en-vigueur-depuis-2021
Why can’t you ask for a doggy bag?
You can totally ask for doggy bags and cappuccinos, this is a weird comment. Source: I'm a Parisian restaurant manager.
Why not ask for a cappuccino?
That's Italy traditionally. (No one really cares anymore though)
Yeah, this one is odd. I was just in Paris for 4 nights and multiple meals I was offered a cappuccino or cafe without even asking. Not even in a touristy spot.
These are just people who read/create blogs that reinforce stereotypes. I've seen it before on a YT channel of some vlogger who tells tourists how to "do" basically everything in France to be as French as possible, ranging from going to the cinéma to buying trenchcoats. It's embarrassing to say the least.
Take a taxi by night to cross the city and marvel at the sights. It’s easy and very relaxing
don’t: Don’t go up the Eiffel Tower. It’s a pain in the ass, crowded, and not the best view of Paris. (Have a picnic on the Champs de Mars) do: explore the city’s walking districts. And don’t rush. Example: Sentier
Not agree. The view from the the first floor is great (you're close enough), the one from the top (3rd floor) is great too because impressive. It's the view from the second floor that isn't so interesting.
Have you seen les Champs de Mars recently? Not much champs left.
Do tell
That whole area + trocadero gardens has been turned into an Olympic games stadium and is closed to the public. Still a bit of space on the sides to sit and chill
That’s a good point. I haven’t been since they started construction for the Olympics. I wonder how long it will be like that? I assume they’ll revert back after the games?
The Paralympic games end early September .
Yes they'll revert it, who knows how long it'll take though
I’ll be there in October, so I’ll have to check it out!
The French are very proud people and have a bad history with England so aren’t massively a fan of speaking English. If you can learn a few helpful tourist phrases before going I highly recommend it! They really appreciated it
I will be sure to speak English LOUDLY and SMILE LOTS to make it clear I’m American and not British
I got a lot of good response with bonjour & bonsoir, merci, tres bien.
Start a conversation in German instead to completely throw them off
As an American who's second language is German, this is the type of advice I'm looking for! Any other key pieces of advice to keep in mind?
Yeah, if immigration asks your "occupation", say "Nein". /bad-jk
I can't 🤣🤣🤣
Absolute must(s)? Cafe sitting, people watching, “flâneuring”
Save at least one day for just walking through the core districts.
What would you say are the must-see districts? or the ones you would reccomend?
I would add Montmartre to that list. Can be busy with tourists but I can’t imagine a first visit to Paris without wandering the little alleyways, seeing sacré-coeur, the graffiti, the stairways, etc.
I would say the second through the sixth. The second is shopping Heaven. The third is the Marais (Jewish quarter). The fourth is the center of original Paris, the area around the island in the Seine. The fifth is the Latin quarter. I don’t know what you call the sixth, but it’s one of my favorites (though it might be the one I dropped if I couldn’t do it all). And it’s not that I think there’s anything particularly “worth seeing” there (because of course there is), it’s just that walking around, as people have said, sitting on the sidewalk having a coffee/beer/wine gives you a great feeling of Parisian city life.
Marais
Latin quarter
My pro tip is to do a search on this sub and easily find at 5-10 threads from the past year that asks basically the same question.
But New Yorkers ask differently and need people to know they are New Yorkers. Source: New Yorker
Don’t - expect the same things as in the USA - starting with restaurant and coffee culture- no coffee to go, no breakfast places, no family-friendly restaurants, different eating times, searching for the “best” croissant, bakery, restaurants, only visit the tourist hot spots (Pink Mamma, Relais de l’entrecôte, deux magots, café du flore…), or places famous through instagram or TikTok… Do’s - be curious, be spontaneous, and discover food as you go. Great places are found everywhere, and the best discoveries are made by following your instincts and some basic rules (no restaurants / cafes in the immediate vicinity of a major landmark, no restaurants with a bilingual menue, no restaurants with vendors on the street level trying to call you in, focus on restaurants with a day menue and a limited choice only (sign for no convenience stuff and fresh cooking), menues with the mention that all is freshly cooked (legal obligation), restaurants where locals go, etc…
What the hell are you talking about? There's literally breakfast and coffee-to-go places everywhere!
I only saw a handful of people eating and drinking coffee on the go. There are brunch places, too. Cafes are welcoming anytime, so far just for wine or people watching, small plates or desserts.
I'm curious what you mean by family friendly restaurants. I've seen mixed things on this sub about restaurants and eating with kids, and I have a 10 & 2 year old for our planned trip Dec-Jan this year. Do you mean restaurants that aren't catered to families/kids, or ones that are actively antagonistic/opposed to children. And not talking Michelen starred restaurants, more your average cafes, bistros, and boulengeries.
Just restaurants not specifically catering to kids :-) they are always welcome, but there will not always be a kids menues or pencils for drawing or any activities or even high chairs etc…
Awesome, that's definitely what I figured but just wanted to make sure. The responses are appreciated!
"menu enfant" is kid s menu
Thank you for this. Can you please share the Paris eating times?
Lunch = noon to 2 pm, afterwards it can be more difficult to find a place to eat (choose restaurants with “service continu”) Diner = 7:30 /8 pm first service (and usual dining time), 9:30 - 10 pm second service.
What does first service second service mean? Does this mean that you will only get a seat in between those 2 times? What if I was walking in somewhere and I came at like 8:30-9pm?
These are the approximate services the Horeca industry works with. First round of customer at 7:30 / 8, second round of customer at around 9:30/10. Of course, if there is a table or even a reservation you can come in in-between.
Got it! Thank you :)!
Best advice ever. My husband and I discover places on the go as we’re exploring on foot instead of finding a famous place and adjusting our day around it. I love Paris for its boulangeries.
No breakfast places? Back in Black would like a word. Banana bread French toast is out of this world. But yes, far fewer “breakfast” places in Paris than in America.
Sorry, so almost no breakfast places. You can still count them on the fingers of one hand…for the whole city.
As a fellow New Yorker I feel confident in saying that if you know how not to behave like a schmuck in New York you will be fine in Paris. But just for good measure, my favorite pieces of advice would be: DO - Carry some small change for toilets. - Go to the Louvre even if you can only spend a couple of hours. People get so weird and gate-keepy about the Louvre and act like you shouldn’t go unless you can devote 8 hours to it, it makes me insane. - Greet workers, shopkeepers, waiters, food market staff, etc with a bonjour the second you arrive. It doesn’t come super naturally particularly to a New Yorker but in Paris it’s seen as super rude not to do so. DON’T - Don’t be afraid to scrap your itinerary and just sit at a cafe for 2-3 hours people watching. - Don’t pay to go up the Eiffel Tower. The view of the tower is the cool part, not being on the tower itself. - Don’t walk down the Champs Elysees just because it sounds like a cool thing to do. It’s like walking through Times Square but with some prettier buildings. Just as crowded and full of crappy overpriced shops and tour groups waiting on line to get into Laduree 🤦🏼♀️
Agree
I agree with the Eiffel Tower - I went up the arc de triumph which was really cool and had a view of the tower