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Everything you Need to Know before Traveling to Paris France

Paris. The city of love, of art, and of croissants. It’s a dream destination for many, but before you pack your bags and head off to the City of Lights, there are a few things you should know. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know before traveling to Paris, from accommodations and transportation to food and drinks, what to pack, weather, cost of visiting, and most common scams.

Paris is one of our favorite cities in the world. We have been many times, since it is only a 5,5 hour drive away from where we live in the Netherlands. We recently visited Paris for one whole week. And we had the best time. We booked a nice apartment overlooking the rooftops of Paris with in the back the Eiffel Tower.

Since we had been before, we had the time to fully explore Paris and check out everything we wanted or that we hadn’t seen before. In this article we will share some useful tips for when you visit Paris for the first time. If you have any questions, feel free to contact us.

Paris Things to Do
Paris Things to Do
Paris Things to Do
Wonderful Paris

How to get to Paris?

To embark on an enchanting journey to Paris from abroad, you have several convenient options for reaching this iconic city. Paris is well-connected globally through its two main international airports: Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) and Orly Airport (ORY). Numerous major airlines operate direct flights to Paris from major cities around the world, making it easily accessible for travelers from afar. Additionally, high-speed train services, such as the Eurostar, connect Paris to various European cities like London, Brussels, and Amsterdam, providing a seamless and scenic travel experience. With its exceptional transportation infrastructure and accessibility, Paris warmly welcomes travelers from abroad, inviting them to immerse themselves in the city’s romantic ambiance, rich history, and extraordinary cultural treasures.

Accomodations

When it comes to accommodations in Paris, there are plenty of options to choose from. You can stay in a hotel, hostel, or apartment rental. The prices can range from budget to luxury, depending on your preference. It’s important to note that hotels in the city center can be quite expensive, so if you’re on a budget, consider staying in the outskirts of the city and taking public transportation to get around.

Booking.com

Transportation

Paris has a great public transportation system that includes buses, metro, and trains. The metro is the fastest and most convenient way to get around the city, and there are several ticket options to choose from. You can buy single tickets or a pack of 10 tickets, which is more cost-effective. You can also buy a Paris Visite Pass, which gives you unlimited access to public transportation and discounts on attractions.

Paris Things to Do
Paris with a Dog
Paris Things to Do

Food & Drinks

Paris is famous for its cuisine, and there are plenty of delicious foods to try. From croissants and baguettes to escargot and foie gras, there’s something for everyone. When it comes to drinks, don’t miss out on trying some of the local wines and champagne. Keep in mind that dining out in Paris can be quite expensive, so if you’re on a budget, consider trying some of the street food or cooking your own meals in your accommodations.

Paris Food Guide
Croissants by Cedric Grolet
Paris Food Guide
Eclairs by Eclair de Genie
Paris Food Guide
Pain au Chocolat

Cost of visiting Paris

Paris is known for being an expensive city, so it’s important to budget accordingly. Accommodation prices can vary greatly depending on the location and the time of year, but expect to pay more for centrally located hotels or apartments. Dining out can also be pricey, with many restaurants charging high prices for French cuisine. However, there are also plenty of budget-friendly options, such as street food, cafes, and bakeries. Transportation costs can add up as well, especially if you’re using taxis or ride-sharing services. To save money, consider using public transportation or walking instead. Finally, attractions such as the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum, and other popular tourist sites can also be expensive, so be sure to research prices and plan ahead to get the best deals.

Attractions and Activities in Paris

There’s no shortage of things to see and do in Paris, from visiting the iconic Eiffel Tower to exploring the world-famous Louvre Museum. Some other must-see attractions include the Notre-Dame Cathedral, the Champs-Élysées, and the Palace of Versailles. You can also take a cruise along the Seine River, visit the Montmartre neighborhood, and enjoy a show at the Moulin Rouge.

Paris with a Dog
Eiffel Tower
Paris with a Dog
Arc de Triomphe
Paris Things to Do
Sacre Coeur

Tourist Scams

Unfortunately, like many popular tourist destinations, Paris has its fair share of scams that visitors should be aware of. One common scam is the gold ring scam, where a person will approach you and ask if you dropped a gold ring. They will then try to sell it to you for a low price, claiming it’s worth much more. Another scam is the petition scam, where someone will approach you with a petition to sign for a good cause, but then ask for a donation. Be wary of anyone who is overly friendly or persistent, and always be cautious when approached by strangers. It’s always a good idea to keep your belongings close and to only exchange money at legitimate exchange bureaus.

Language and culture

It is said that French people don’t speak English. Of course that is not true. But what is true is that speaking English is not as comfortable for a french person. It can be hard for them as well. So keep that in mind when talking English to a Parisian.

Another thing that is said about the French is that they come across as cold and distant. What you need to know is that the French are a bit more reserved and to them selves at first. That is why they might come across as a bit distant.

Weather

Paris has a temperate climate, with mild winters and warm summers. The best time to visit is in the spring or fall, when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller. However, keep in mind that it can rain quite often in Paris, so be prepared for some rainy days.

Check the weather forecast for the next 2 weeks in Paris.

Paris Things to Do
Musee du Louvre
Paris with a Dog
Musee du Louvre
Paris Things to Do
Pantheon

What to Pack for Paris

Paris is a cosmopolitan city with a distinct sense of style, so it’s worth putting some thought into your packing list. The key to packing for Paris is to strike a balance between comfort and style. You’ll want to look chic and put-together, but also be comfortable enough to walk around the city and explore its many attractions. Some classic Parisian wardrobe staples include a well-tailored jacket or blazer, comfortable walking shoes or sneakers, a scarf, and a versatile bag that can hold all your essentials. Paris can be quite rainy, so it’s a good idea to pack a waterproof jacket or umbrella. Depending on the time of year you’re visiting, you may also want to bring warm layers such as a sweater or coat. When it comes to accessories, opt for simple, elegant pieces that can be dressed up or down, such as a watch, a pair of classic sunglasses, and a statement piece of jewelry. Finally, don’t forget to bring a universal adapter if you plan to charge your electronics in France. With these items in your suitcase, you’ll be ready to experience the magic of Parisian fashion and culture.

That’s it on everything you need to know before traveling to Paris. We hope you found this information helpful in planning your trip. If you have any questions or comments, please leave them below. Enjoy Paris!

Do you want to visit the Cote d’Azur in the South of France? Check out the adventures of our friends from 2Dads3Kids and get some useful tips for this beautiful destination. Click here to read their Cote d’Azur journal.

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