Paris, France is one of the most unique and beautiful cities in the world! There are endless museums, spectacular architecture and landmarks, historic artwork, fantastic music scenes, and delicious restaurants. Not to mention the never-ending cafes that are basically on every corner throughout the city. Paris always has something to offer its locals and tourists guaranteeing you will have a great time on your next trip.
First Impressions
Paris and I had a very rocky start on our first. My first impression of Paris was a bit crazy due to the over packed airport, figuring out the metro system, and the strangest of all, a man who barked like an actual dog in my ear (still very confused by this experience). Although it wasn’t love at first sight, I quickly learned to love the city and its culture on my own terms.
My Experience with the Baguette Stereotype
I always thought that this stereotype was overdone, but from my experience, it might have not been done enough. Hilarious to me, some people of Paris actually walk around eating or simply holding baguettes with their bare hands like they’ve never heard of a bag before. I will never forget this specific time when a man was holding two baguettes in each hand while walking down a main strip as if it was completely sane to just walk around holding bread. To be fair, I cannot fully blame the Parisians for their love of bread as French bakeries really know what they are doing.
Accommodations: Airbnb or hostel?
If you have the opportunity to stay in Paris for a month I would definitely recommend staying in an Airbnb (Clink my affiliation link to get a discount on your first booking). There are many apartments throughout Paris that can be found in beautiful neighbourhoods interlocking throughout the city; the perfect home away from home. Enjoying your own personal space and somewhere to re-group each day is a must.
I personally stay at this adorable Airbnb about a 15-minute walk from Sacre-Coeur and a 2-minute walk to the nearest metro station. It was the perfect hideaway when Paris becomes too busy and overwhelming. I paid roughly 850 euros for the entire month and had no issues with the apartment and host.
You could also consider staying in a hostel if you are looking for a more personable approach to travelling. I have met some of the most amazing people while staying in hostels around Europe and many of them can become true life-long friends.
The land of the Hustlers
I’m going to be straight up though, be prepared to be hustled hard! There is always someone (or multiple someones) on almost every street trying to get your money. Be it key chains, bracelets, “petitions” (most are fake and just a scam), shoes, wallets, or even cheap flags. Remember, don’t be afraid to use your voice and firmly say “no”.
Unfortunately, some of these sellers will even get physical with you. I had one pull me by the arm while at the Sacre-Cœur Basilica because I said I didn’t want their bracelet. When dealing with these types of situations you must get that tough skin out and stand your ground.
My Favourite Gems
Now, some of my favourite places in Paris were complete surprises. Just by simply walking around I would often find a beautiful spot to spend my day. I ended up at so many random food and flower markets, beautiful alleyways, and art districts just by getting “lost” in the city; something I definitely recommend trying to do.
Some of my favourite days in the city were just me wandering around for 8 hours straight.
Here are a few places I recommend checking out:
- The art district that is found behind the Sacre-Cœur Basilica (Montmartre).
- The flower market and Latin Quarters near the Notre Dame Cathedral.
- The famous Flea Market in St. Ouen is usually running on Saturday or Sunday morning throughout the summer.
- The many unique rooftop bars that offer fantastic views of Paris such as Le Perchoir Marais
Free Things in Paris
There are many free things to check out while in Paris. Including Basilique du Sacré Cœur, Notre Dame Cathédrale, Parc du Champ de Mars, Maison de Victor Hugo, and much more. The city is especially kind to students and adults under 24-26 years of age. There are many places you can get in for free or extremely discounted simply by being a young adult/student.
For example: When I was in Paris, the price to get to the top of the Eiffel Tower was 12.50 euros if you were under 24 years of age, but 25 euros for anyone over 24. At the time, this meant that youth were astonishingly saving half the price on their tickets.
Another great free opportunity that Paris offers is its free museum days. Usually, on the first Sunday of the month, many Parisian museums allow free entry to all (This may depend on the time of year). One of my favourite experiences was when I was able to visit the Louvre completely free as every Friday from 6:00 pm- 9:45 pm anyone under the age of 26 can enter without a ticket. Simply bring your official government ID or they will not let you in. Trust me, I saw it happen with my own eyes.
Side note:
I just wanted to let you know in advance that the Mona Lisa is a pretty small painting. Please don’t expect a huge piece of artwork because you will be thoroughly disappointed. Although the Mona Lisa is a trademark of Paris, the busy crowds surrounding the painting and its size can ruin the experience.
Local Tip:
If the non-ticket holder line is unbelievably long in front of the museum I would recommend trying to sneak into the ticket holder line directly across. When I was visiting the museum, they did not check to see if I had a ticket and I was quickly waved through security. I easily entered the museum and saved over an hour’s worth of wait time.
Don’t Get Caught in the Tourist Trap
Although all of the touristy things (such as visiting the Eiffel Tower or seeing the Arc de Triomphe) can be very fun, try to not make it your full-day plan. Spending an hour or two is the most you’ll probably want to stay. They are beautiful, but they are overly crowded, expensive tourist traps, and usually just a quick picture. Travelling outside of the tourist districts is where the true beauty of Paris lies.
Tips for the Solo Traveler
If you are travelling alone, I would recommend taking a few tours or trying out an Airbnb experience. These are a great way to meet new people and learn a new craft along the way. I was able to take a painting class while in Paris as well as a crêpe class that I thoroughly enjoyed. I was able to meet amazing locals and other international tourists. I even made further plans with some of the lovely people I made friends with while at the events.
Restaurant or not to Restaurant?
Importantly, it is good to know that eating out in Paris is very expensive before starting your trip. I am not going to lie to you! Paris is one of the most expensive cities to eat out in all of Europe. I definitely recommend making food in your apartment or Airbnb as much as possible (if this is an option for you). This will allow you to save money and only spend it on the real fun stuff or for the famous cafes, restaurants, and bakeries that are a must-try.
I recommend shopping at Carrefour Market, Leader Price, or MonoPrix for groceries. They are some of the cheaper grocery stores found throughout Paris and you are able to get enough food for a few days for only 20-40 euros (depending on your diet). This is a pretty good deal especially considering the average price for restaurant food is 20-30 euros per meal again depending on the restaurant. The cheapest meal I had while in Paris was a Pizza slice for 3 euros, but I was in a non-tourist area and I honestly think I just got lucky that day.
Final Thoughts
Lastly, Paris is a magical place with endless things to do. If there is a day you don’t feel like going out, try your best to at least go for a walk in one of Paris’s famous districts. You will always find something beautiful and picture-worthy for your next Instagram post. Remember, if you don’t go outside you are not making any new memories.
Please don’t let your time in Paris slip away! Try to experience as much as possible in your short time in the city. Take that French class you’ve always wanted, go explore the catacombs under the city, or maybe take that art class in front of the Eiffel Tower. Live your life to the fullest and don’t forget to enjoy even the small things each and every day.
I’ve learned a lot while in Paris and hope that I’ve prepared you a little more for your time here. Feel free to ask me any questions in the comments.
Safe travels,
Carina
