My Travel Guide to Paris

Paris is one of my personal favourite destinations and each time I return I still feel that deep down spark of excitement. As Audrey Hepburn said “Paris is always a good idea” and I certainly agree.

Here are some of my Paris tips to help you plan an enjoyable and stress-free trip:

🎨 Culture & Attractions

Paris has so much amazing history and culture and to make the most of your visit it’s always a good idea to plan things in advance. This will help to ensure that don’t miss out on the must-see attractions and spend less time waiting in lines:

⚜️ Museum Closures: Don’t forget The Louvre is closed on Tuesdays, and Musée d'Orsay shuts on Mondays. If you plan on visiting them make sure that you plan your itinerary accordingly.
⚜️ Go Late: Many major museums stay open late once a week. Visiting them at this time is often quieter and also gives you more space to enjoy the art/exhibits (without the crowds).
⚜️ Skip the Line: Pre-book Skip the Line tickets — you will most likely still need to queue but it will definitely save you a lot of time so definitely worth doing.
⚜️ Underrated Gems: Everyone wants to visit The Louvre but don’t skip some of the quieter, less well know museums like Musée Rodin, Musée Marmottan Monet, or Jacquemart-André.
⚜️ Sunset at the Arc: Pre-book a sunset slot at the Arc de Triomphe — the 360° view over Paris as the city lights begin to sparkle is amazing.

📸 Photo Spots

Paris really is a magical place for photography lovers. There are so many places around the city to take a stunning photo however here are some of my favourite places:

⚜️ Trocadéro at sunrise - this is a wonderful time to take an iconic Eiffel Tower shot as the morning lighting perfect for photos and there are usually less crowds.
⚜️Rue de l’Université - If you are after some dreamy, stylish, iconic Parisian photos then this location is perfect (the street frames the Eiffel Tower beautifully).
⚜️Rue de l’Abreuvoir in Montmartre – one of the most picturesque streets in Paris…. it really feels as if you are stepping into a romantic film.
⚜️Galeries Lafayette rooftop – it's free to visit (go up there through the Galeries Lafayette Haussmann store) and it gives you panoramic views right across the City.
⚜️Pont Alexandre III - one of Paris’s most ornate and romantic bridges - a great vantage point to take stunning photos of the Seine, the Eiffel Tower and the Parisian skyline.

☕ Café Culture Tips

Parisian cafés are more than a place to eat – they’re a lifestyle and it’s good to know a few things before you visit.

⚜️ Know Your Order: “Un café” is an espresso. If you would like a latte then ask for “un café crème.”
⚜️Take Your Time: Terraces are perfect for people-watching - just sit back, relax and soak in the Parisian atmosphere.
⚜️Hot Chocolate Heaven: Angelina’s chocolat chaud is known for its rich, velvety texture and is a must-try when visiting Paris.
⚜️Iconic Cafés: Famous for their literary and artistic heritage Café de Flore and Les Deux Magots are worth visiting to soak up the Parisian Cafe vibe (they are quite pricey but are iconic).
⚜️At the end of your meal- The Cheque Won’t Come Unless You ask. When you are ready to leave ask for the bill by saying “l’addition s’il vous plaît”

👗 Packing & Parisian Style

Parisian style is all about effortless elegance and smart choices.

⚜️ Chic & Comfy: Pack stylish flats or sneakers – cobblestones are not very heel-friendly and you will most likely be doing a lot of walking so make sure you have comfortable shoes!
⚜️ Layer Up: Even in summer the evenings can be cool so make sure you bring light layers.
⚜️ Bring a Tote: Definitely pack a reusable tote as it will certainly come in very handy for the markets, buying baguettes, or a spontaneous picnic.
⚜️ Packing Cubes: These are a total game-changer for keeping your outfits organised and your suitcase tidy. I love my packing cubes and won’t travel without them!
⚜️ Don’t Forget: An umbrella or light rain jacket – Paris weather can be beautifully unpredictable.
⚜️ Bring a scarf: A scarf is a must in Paris—it adds effortless style and can also easily transforms into a stylish picnic blanket to enjoy a spur of the moment picnic.

🚶‍♀️Getting Around Paris

There’s no better city to explore on foot — but here are some options and tips:

⚜️ Walk, Walk, Walk: Paris is best discovered on foot — the side streets, little boutiques, and charming courtyards are where the magic lives and are definitely worth exploring.
⚜️ Metro Made Easy: Download the Bonjour RATP app for easy metro navigation.
⚜️ Batobus Bonus: The Batobus is a scenic river shuttle that glides between major sights – it’s beautiful, practical and a great way to get across the city.
⚜️ Map Your Moments: Create a custom Google Map with your must-visits to avoid backtracking and make the most of your time in the city.

🍽 Dining Tips to Know

Dining in Paris is an experience – here's how to enjoy it like a local.

⚜️ Reservations Matter: Even casual spots fill up so it is recommended that you book ahead, especially for dinner or if you are planning on going to a very popular or a Michelin restaurant.
⚜️ Menus Are Set: Don’t expect substitutions – Although you may always be able to do this at home it is not common to change the menu’s in France as they are usually set.
⚜️ House Wine is Lovely: Ask for the “vin du maison” – this is often a great option and tends to be more affordable than bottled options.
⚜️ Morning Pastries: Bakeries are best early in the day when croissants are fresh out of the oven.
⚜️ Water Tip: Request “une carafe d’eau” (tap water) to avoid paying for bottled water.
⚜️ Dinner Timing: Most restaurants open around 7–7:30pm for dinner – Parisians dine quite late compared to some other countries.
⚜️ Must-Try Dishes: Whilst in France try some of the local specialties…..croque monsieur, Soupe à l’oignon, Tarte tatin, or Boeuf Bourguignon — all delicious and très French.

🌹 Elegant Extras

For those extra special Parisian moments…

⚜️ Have a Picnic: Grab some yummy goodies from the local market (bread, cheese, pate, pastries) and head to Jardin du Luxembourg or Champs de Mar for a picnic.
⚜️ Skincare Heaven: Stop by a local pharmacie – French skincare finds are top quality.
⚜️ Sweet Souvenirs: Take a macaron or pastry class – it’s a fun and delicious way to experience some French delights.
⚜️ High Tea Treat: Book afternoon tea at The Ritz Paris (or another hotel such as The Peninsula or Hotel Plaza Athénée) – the perfect way to treat yourself!
⚜️ Create a Custom Perfume: Visit Fragonard or Guerlain for a signature fragrance experience.

🥐 Local Secrets & Etiquette

A few things to help you feel at home in Paris…

⚜️ Escalator Etiquette: Stand on the right side – Parisians walk on the left.
⚜️ Market Mornings: Markets close early so make sure you go before noon for the best selection.
⚜️ Savor, Don’t Rush: Meals are slow-paced. Embrace it and take time to enjoy the moment.
⚜️ Avoid Tourist Traps: Walk a few blocks from major sights to find better food, service, and value.
⚜️ Slow Down: The best Paris moments often happen when you take your time, explore and soak it all in.

🗓 Planning Your Paris Trip

A few final tips to make your Paris stay even more magical…

⚜️ Travel Smart: May, June, and September are great months to visit — these months tend to have fewer crowds but the weather is still usually lovely.
⚜️ Book Early: So you don’t miss out make sure you book your Louvre, Eiffel Tower, and special dinner reservations well in advance.
⚜️ Plan a Signature Moment: Whether it’s a rooftop dinner, a photoshoot, or a sunset cruise, try and make time in your itinerary for something truelly Parisien that you will never forget.
⚜️ Learn Some French: Just a few phrases will go a long way – the effort is always appreciated by locals - Duolingo is a great app for learning languages.
⚜️ Leave Room for Magic: The best days in Paris aren’t always planned — sometimes, they just happen naturally so don’t make your itinerary too full on 💕

Whether it’s your first trip or your tenth, Paris really does have a beautiful charm that welcomes you back each time. Hopefully these tips will help you to make the most of your time in Paris so you can make the most of your time enjoying the Parisien magic in the beautiful city of lights ✨

Jennie @ Deluxe Wanderlust xx