Read on and enjoy France like a local!
My name is Carole and I am French. I was born and raised in Paris, and I want to help you have a good time in France! As a Parisian and the founder of Test Your French, I know Paris very well. I love this city! Everyday, I see new things to explore. It’s such a beautiful place.
All the pictures in this article are from my personal collection.
Drawing from my experience, I’ll share my insider knowledge to ensure you have a smooth and enjoyable solo adventure
This article has lots of information. Use the table of contents to find what you’re looking for. Grab a drink or a hot beverage (like un café?) and get ready for a good read!
Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links. Any money I earn from this blog helps keep it running. I appreciate your support!
Table of Contents
Solo Travel Paris: 5 advices by a Parisian
1. Where to stay?
Most people do not recommend the 10th arrondissement, but based on my firsthand experience, it’s one of the best places to stay to mix with the locals. It’s up and coming! Generally speaking, stay north of the Seine River (rive droite) if you want a local experience, and south of the Seine River (rive gauche) if you want a fancier setting. I have found that a lot of tourists think that Rive gauche is safer than Rive droite. In my opinion, it’s fancier but not always safer. Ask me in the comments about a specific neighborhood if needed.
2. Hotel or Airbnb?
For short stays, Airbnb is quite expensive now. But it can also be very convenient for those of us who like to cook. Whatever you prefer, there are a lot of hotels for all budgets in Paris. Let me know which ones are your favorite in the comments!
3. Book ahead or go with the flow?
It depends on how long you’re staying in Paris. If you’re only there for less than two weeks, it’s a good idea to book tickets for museums, boat trips, and popular restaurants in advance. You will also save time onsite.
4. To beret or not to beret?
In my experience, berets are not commonly worn by French people anymore. My corsican grandfather used to wear one but I don’t know anyone who does it nowadays. Wearing a beret as a tourist can come across as stereotypical or even offensive. If you want to embrace French fashion, consider wearing a black shirt, jeans, and an elegant coat.
5. Wine or champagne?
Both! Paris is a great place to try different drinks, including wine and champagne. You can even enjoy a drink outside, on the street. Just remember, it’s not okay to be drunk in public or drive under the influence. A new trend of non-alcoholic beverages is picking up in Paris. There are more and more refined options coming up.
PRO TIP Solo Travel Paris: Paris is a walkable city. Less than 10 kilometers (6.2 miles/2 hours walking) north to south and 8 kilometers (5 miles/ 1 hour and 40 minutes walking) east to west. Try to walk every time you can. It’s the best way to discover Paris.
Solo Travel Paris: 5-day itinerary
Here are some walkable itineraries that allow for surprises along the way and long coffee breaks and people watching. If you want more options, you need to get this guide ASAP. It includes all the arrondissements and loads of other must-know info before your trip to Paris.
The 5-day itinerary here tells you about cultural activities. There are cafés and restaurants everywhere in Paris! Just look around, and you’ll find plenty of options. Want a recommendation? Tell me in the comments what kind of food you like, how much you want to spend, and what kind of atmosphere you’re looking for. Based on my experience, I can suggest some great places to go to.
Day 1: Paris Center (arrondissements 1st, 2nd, 3rd & 4th)
Theme: Artistic Amblings
- Begin at the Louvre: Marvel at the Mona Lisa and explore the vast collections.
- Stroll through the Jardin des Tuileries: Enjoy the peaceful gardens.
- Check out Galerie Perrotin: Visit this renowned art gallery.
- Visit the Marais: Explore the art galleries and shops in this historic neighborhood.
PRO TIP Solo Travel Paris: after the Tuileries, go to jardin du Palais Royal if you have time. This is one of the most peaceful gardens in Paris center. There are very good cafés and restaurants there. My favorite is Café Kitsuné.
Day 2: Paris East (arrondissements 11th, 12th, 13th, 20th & Bois de Vincennes)
Theme: Revolution, Rebellion & Trendy Treats
- Begin at Place de la Bastille: Learn about the French Revolution at this historic square.
- Explore the shops and cafes: Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and unique offerings.
- Visit Père Lachaise Cemetery: Pay your respects to famous figures like Jim Morrison and Edith Piaf.
- Conclude your walk in Oberkampf: Explore this trendy neighborhood known for its bars, restaurants, and nightlife.
PRO TIP Solo Travel Paris: get to Père Lachaise one hour before sunset so you have time to visit and see the sunset from there. Some evenings are magnifiques!
Day 3: Paris South (arrondissements 5th, 6th, 7th, 14th & 15th)
Theme: From Iron Lady to Saint Michael
- Start at the Eiffel Tower: Enjoy the panoramic views of Paris.
- Uber or take public transportation: Choose from Bus 86, RER C, the subway or uber to reach Saint Michael. You can also walk if you want (4km/2.5 miles/1 hour).
- Admire the statue of Saint Michel: See this iconic sculpture and explore the Latin Quarter.
- Visit Shakespeare and Co: Discover this charming bookstore with a rich literary history.
- Explore the Musée Cluny: Learn about the Middle Ages at this fascinating museum.
PRO TIP Solo Travel Paris: if you have time, take a smal detour and walk to Notre-Dame after admiring the statue of Saint Michel and before Shakespeare and Co.
Day 4: Paris West (arrondissements 8th, 16th, 17th & Bois de Boulogne)
Theme: Champs-Élysées & Parisian Grandeur
- Start at the Grand Palais: Explore this impressive museum complex.
- Stroll up the Champs-Élysées: Enjoy the shopping and atmosphere along this famous avenue.
- Visit the Arc de Triomphe: Climb to the top for panoramic views of Paris.
- Walk to Place du Trocadéro (20 min): Enjoy the view of the Eiffel Tower and explore nearby museums.
- Finish the day with a Seine River cruise: Relax and enjoy the scenery on a boat tour.
PRO TIP Solo Travel Paris: I prefer the Seine River cruise during a sunny and warm day, but you can also choose an evening for sunset and city lights.
Day 5: Paris North (arrondissements 9th, 10th, 18th & 19th)
Theme: Artistic Delights and stunning view of Paris
- Start at the base of Montmartre: Take the metro to Blanche station.
- Spot the Moulin Rouge: Keep an eye out for this iconic cabaret.
- Visit the Clos Montmartre vineyard: Explore this unique vineyard and learn about the area’s history.
- Climb to Sacré-Cœur: Enjoy the panoramic views from the top.
- Explore the Musée de Montmartre: Learn about the district’s artistic heritage.
- Visit Espace Dalí: Immerse yourself in the world of Salvador Dalí.
- Finish at Le Mur des Je T’aime: Discover this iconic wall of “I love you” messages in more than 300 languages.
PRO TIP Solo Travel Paris: most people I know were not very impressed by the Moulin-Rouge show. That’s why I just recommend looking at it from the outside. But if you go, please leave a comment about your experience.
Solo Travel Paris: 6 things to do before leaving for Paris
1. Book in advance
Book tickets for popular museums, activities and restaurants, especially during peak season.
2. Join Paris Facebook groups or follow Paris Instagram accounts
You can find our favorite 10 instagram accounts to follow in our amazing travel bundle here!
3. Get ready to walk a lot
Brisk walk everyday.
4. Enjoy delicious meals
Eat alone in a restaurant to get at ease.
5. Read our article on the best apps and websites
Read on, prepare and enjoy France like a local!
6. Learn some French
At least, learn how to say “bonjour” when greeting people and add “s’il vous plait” at the end of your questions. Don’t assume that people speak English. In my experience, it’s so much better when you ask if they do politely.
PRO TIP Solo Travel Paris: Learn all about French history, culture, and etiquette with my free email series. It’s like a mini-crash course in all things French and it’s a MUST before your big trip!
FAQ
Why take a solo Paris trip?
Solo travel offers freedom and independence. Paris is a great destination for solo travelers with its vibrant atmosphere, easy public transportation, amazing restaurants, bakeries, cafés, cultural activities and fun nightlife.
Is traveling to Paris alone a good idea?
Yes, Paris is suitable for solo travelers. There are plenty of non-romantic activities to enjoy, and many people have had positive experiences traveling alone there. Plus it’s easy to meet other travelers or locals. Join walking tours, visit cafes and bars, attend events at cultural centers, use apps like Meetup or Couchsurfing and check Facebook groups. PRO TIP Solo Travel Paris: Dive into the world of French history, culture, and manners with my free email series.
Is Paris safe for solo female travelers?
While there are risks, many people report not experiencing any major safety issues during their solo trips, including solo female travelers. Nonetheless, be cautious and aware of common scams. Some blogs share the most common scams (petition scam, the ‘gift’ you have to pay for, pickpocket teams, etc.). It’s worth reading up on so you’re aware of what to look out for. Catcalling can also happen.
PRO TIP Solo Travel Paris: anytime something seems out of the ordinary, it’s safer not to engage and to walk or to run away. Leaving is often the best strategy.
What are some essential solo travel Paris tips?
Be prepared for solo dining, learn some basic French phrases, be cautious in the streets, use the métro, avoid scams, choose a good area to stay, and buy travel insurance. Pack comfortable walking shoes, an everyday bag with a zipper and essentials like your passport, travel documents, and a travel adapter. You can also look for an e-sim. A lot of people seem happy with Airalo (cheap and simple to set up). I personally prefer Google Fi which has a fairly inexpensive option for phone and internet service while traveling in most countries.
PRO TIP Solo Travel Paris: Get a Wise debit card for convenient spending in Europe without additional fees (the card is free with this link). Order the card before your trip to ensure it arrives on time.
What are the best things to do during a solo Paris travel?
Enjoy boat trips along the Seine, stroll through Montmartre, dine at fancy restaurants, visit landmarks and museums like the Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe, Sacre-Coeur, the Louvre, Musée d’Orsay, and Musée Carnavalet, and explore different neighborhoods. PRO TIP Solo Travel Paris: Experience the magic of French history, culture, and etiquette with my free email series.
How should I plan my solo trip to Paris?
Exactly what you are doing. Read articles on my blog, travelers’ blogs and social media. I am one of the few people writing this kind of content who is actually French, born and raised in Paris. But many other blogs are very educational as well. Explore French history, learn French customs, and master French etiquette with my free email series. PRO TIP Solo Travel Paris: Keep track of when the sun rises and sets. You can plan your day around them.
Is Paris a good first solo destination?
Paris is an excellent choice for traveling alone for the first time. With its lively atmosphere, convenient transportation, delicious food, and rich culture, Paris offers a fantastic solo travel experience. It’s also a great place to connect with other travelers and locals.
What are the safety tips for solo female travelers?
Although Paris isn’t completely risk-free, most visitors have positive experiences. Nevertheless, stay alert for common scams and don’t engage with catcallers. At night, choose well-lit and populated streets to avoid trouble.
Can I use the subway as a solo traveler in Paris?
In my experience, if you can’t walk, use the subway. I am not a big fan of buses because they are often crowded and always much slower than the subway. I always take the subway from early morning to late night. If you go out late, beware that the subway lines all close between midnight and one am depending on where you are on the line. It’s better to check online on google maps or the official website (RATP). Choose carts with as much people as possible in it and change carts if you feel unsafe. Check the last part of my article about free apps and websites for Paris with the info on how to buy subway tickets on your smartphone.
How do I get from the Paris airport to the city center?
Take a taxi or an uber. PRO TIP Solo Travel Paris: each year, the French government decides on the flat rate that taxis can charge for a trip from an airport to Paris.
The flat-rate fares established for direct taxi rides between Paris and the Roissy-Charles-de-Gaulle and Orly airports (in both directions) for now are:
-€56 between Paris-Charles-de-Gaulle airport and the right bank of Paris;
-€65 between Paris-Charles-de-Gaulle airport and the left bank of Paris;
-€44 between Paris-Orly airport and the right bank of Paris;
-€36 between Paris-Orly airport and the left bank of Paris.
The Seine River divides Paris into two main parts: the Right Bank (Rive droite) which is north of the Seine and the Left Bank (Rive gauche) which is south of the Seine.
You can also take the RER B train from Charles de Gaulle airport or the Orlyval shuttle from Orly airport. While in Paris, you can finish your trip with public transportation. Be aware that there are many stairs in the Paris subway.
How much should I budget for my trip to Paris?
Budget around €150-250 per day. Prices will vary depending on your lifestyle and interests.
What are some good restaurants and bars to visit in Paris?
Check the French guide called Le Fooding that I describe in this article or ask in the comments and tell me what kind of restaurant you are looking for.
What should I pack for my trip to Paris?
Bring comfortable walking shoes and a secure bag for your passport, documents, and travel adapter. Dress neatly, as the French prefer a more formal style. Avoid casual or athletic wear and opt for something like a nice sweater and jeans.
Why are Parisians rude?
Many Americans may struggle with French, and Parisians may be perceived as rude or unwelcoming if they don’t understand or respond to English. It’s important to remember that a simple “bonjour” can go a long way in making a good impression. Also Europeans, including Parisians, tend to be more reserved and less outgoing than Americans. This can be misinterpreted as rudeness or indifference. PRO TIP Solo Travel Paris: Want to be a French culture expert? Sign up for my fun and informative with my free email series. It also includes a French language quiz for intermediate speakers so you can test your French before you go on your adventure!
Is Paris dirty?
While Paris is a beautiful city, it is also a large urban area with its fair share of challenges. Some visitors may be surprised by the city’s size, traffic, and occasional litter.
How do I communicate with French people?
Please avoid starting to speak English right away like you are in your home country. Say “bonjour” when greeting people, add “s’il vous plait” at the end of your questions, and ask politely if they speak English. Most French people do speak some English and might want to practice with you.
Are there any cultural events or festivals happening during my visit in Paris?
Check online for upcoming events, such as the French Open tennis tournament, art exhibitions or Bastille Day celebrations.
What apps should I use for my solo Paris trip?
Check my article with the best free apps and websites for traveling in France. These are the ones that most French people actually use for their day-to-day activities when planning a trip in France. Read on and enjoy France like a local!
What are some good ways to meet other travelers in Paris?
Join walking tours, visit cafes and bars, attend events at cultural centers, use apps like Meetup or Couchsurfing, and join Facebook groups. Share your favorite ones in the comments to help other Solo Travel Paris.
What are some things to do in Paris?
Visit museums like the Louvre, Musée d’Orsay, Musée de la vie romantique and Musée de l’Orangerie. Explore historical neighborhoods like the Marais, Latin Quarter and Montmartre. Enjoy French cuisine at local restaurants and cafés. PRO TIP Solo Travel Paris: Check my article with the best free apps and websites for traveling in France. Read on and enjoy France like a local!
Are there any off-the-beaten-path attractions in Paris?
Consider visiting Belleville, Canal Saint-Martin and Canal de l’Ourcq for a more local experience. PRO TIP Solo Travel Paris: walk along the canal from Jaurès to Pantin on a sunny day.
What is the best time of year to visit Paris?
Spring (April-May) or fall (September-October) offer pleasant weather. PRO TIP Solo Travel Paris: pack for all weathers because the weather is becoming unpredictable.
Can I play sports in Paris like pickleball?
While finding a dedicated pickleball court might be more challenging than in the US, there are definitely opportunities to play. You can find some ressources online with hours and courts. PRO TIP Solo Travel Paris: check the bonjourpickleball instagram account for French pickleball players!
What are some unique experiences for solo travelers in Paris?
When I am enjoying Paris solo, I like to visit Canal Saint-Martin, Pantin, Chinatown, parc de Belleville… PRO TIP Solo Travel Paris: the museum of chocolate and the close-by musée Grévin are not on everyone’s list.
Are there gyms I can go to in Paris for just a few days?
Yes, there are many gyms in Paris that offer day passes or short-term memberships. This website will direct you to the best ones for you. PRO TIP Solo Travel Paris: The cheapest I found is Neoness Gyms and one of the most expensive (more premium) is L’Usine. PRO TIP Solo Travel Paris: check Arkose the French leader of climbing loft.
Is it safe to take a taxi in Paris?
Yes. Beware of fake taxis. If they look dodgy, or if they try to get you to their car, it’s probably a scam. Especially at airports.
Here’s how to find a legitimate taxi:
– Look for the “TAXI Parisien” light: This light indicates that the car is a licensed taxi.
– Consider G7: G7 is a popular taxi company in Paris, so you may see their cars frequently.
– Find a taxi rank: Taxi ranks are designated areas where taxis wait for passengers.
– Hail a taxi: You can also hail a taxi from the street.PRO TIP Solo Travel Paris: If the light is green, the taxi is available; if it is red, it is occupied.
– Pay by meter: Except to go to or from the airports, taxis in Paris operate on a meter. You only pay for the distance traveled. Beware of some extra costs (suitcase in the trunk, etc.)
By following these tips, you can easily find and use taxis in Paris.
PRO TIP Solo Travel Paris: Check card acceptance when entering the taxi.
Is Paris walkable?
Yes, Paris is very walkable. Many of the city’s top attractions are located within walking distance of each other. It’s the best way to visit Paris!
Here’s a rough estimate of the distance from north to south and east to west:
– North to south: Approximately 10 kilometers (6.2 miles), walking time: 2 hours
– East to west: Approximately 8 kilometers (5 miles), walking time: 1 hour and 40 minutes
For example: from the Eiffel Tower to Louvre Museum:
Distance: 2.5 km (1.6 miles), walking time: 30-40 minutes
What are the walking distances between major Paris attractions?
Here are the approximate walking distances and estimated times between some of the most popular attractions in Paris:
Eiffel Tower to Louvre Museum:
Distance: 2.5 km (1.6 miles)
Walking time: 30-40 minutes
Louvre Museum to Notre Dame Cathedral:
Distance: 1.5 km (0.9 miles)
Walking time: 20-25 minutes
Champs-Élysées to Eiffel Tower:
Distance: 2 km (1.2 miles)
Walking time: 25-30 minutes
These are approximate times and may vary depending on your pace and any stops you make along the way. It’s always a good idea to check a map or use a navigation app for more accurate directions. PRO TIP Solo Travel Paris: walk as much as you can! It’s the best way to enjoy Paris and be surprised at every corner by a cool café, an art gallery or a cool indie shop. Check our cool bundle with all the info to enjoy strolling in Paris!
