Paris Guide
Oh Paris… One of the most iconic cities in the world that holds so much history and culture.
My first time in Paris, I was in awe of the fact that I was in this place I had been dreaming of visiting all my life, however, for some reason, I wasn’t a fan of Paris, and sort of felt it was overrated.
So I decided to go back again, to try and maybe change my perspective and see Paris in a different light, and wow did it ever change. There’s something about re-visiting a city you’ve already gone too… You get to immerse yourself in your surroundings and fully take in the city that you’re in, rather than just being a tourist in a city for the first time.
I was fascinated by the architecture, the famous landmarks, roaming the streets, the numerous Parisian cafes and so much more…
I don’t rather one or the other, when it comes to traveling with people or traveling alone, but I do appreciate how I actually notice the many details that come by me when I travel solo. Because you’re alone, you process everything in your head and create your own views and opinions and the things you come across.
Getting to Paris
From Charles de Gaulle Airport (CGD) the RER B trains will take you into the city centre in 50 minutes and cost 10 Euro one way.
From the Orly Airport into Paris, you will need to take the Orlyval metro and then make a switch onto RER B or RER C from Anthony train station to get into the city. A journey costing 12.50 Euro and taking 60 minutes.
Currency
The currency used in Paris is the Euro. Good part about Paris is that there are credit card machines most places so you don’t have to worry about bringing cash! You can if you want, but the option of being cashless is there!
Language
The main language spoken is French, but because Paris is such an international and multicultural city, you won’t have any issues getting around without speaking French. However, if you can use some French words like “bonjour”, “merci”, “oui”, I’m sure it would be much appreciated by the French!
Best Cafes in Paris
Café de Flore (famous cafe in Paris)
Where To Eat
Season Marais: Cute spot with acai bowls, pancakes and avocado toast.
Getting around
The metro is the best way to get around in Paris. While they run very well most times, lately there has been lots of delays due to the strikes happening around France, mainly Paris. So keep that in mind when traveling to Paris, that you may occur some delays, or some metro lines that are not running on time or at all.
That being said, I truly enjoy walking around Paris. You will definitely do lots of walking in the city because its so beautiful and there is loads of site seeing in this beautiful city. But Paris is a huge city so you will want to give your feet a rest and take the metro!
Where to Stay
Airbnb: I stayed in an Airbnb in Gare de l’Est and it was simple and nicely located close to a metro station!
An Airbnb with a view of the Eiffel tower
Hotel: There a so many hotel options in Paris that range from budget to luxury hotels depending on what you’re willing to spend!
Hostel: The most budget friendly way of staying in Paris. I stayed at the Village Montmartre Hostel and loved it! Friendly staff, a kitchen to cook in, and comfortable and clean rooms!
When to visit Paris
Paris is beautiful to visit at any time of the year. During the summers, you’ll receive dry and hot weather that can go up to 25°C, and the winters are gloomy and colder of around 5°C. That being said, I have visited both in the month of June and the month of October and thought that Paris was beautiful both times!
The summer you’ll receive clear skies and warm weather – which is always the perfect weather you’re wanting when you are traveling. Yet, the perk of traveling in the winter is that there are fewer crowds, (unless you visit around Christmas and New Years) and even though you will receive some more cloudy days during winter, the flights will most likely be cheaper flying into Paris.
Regardless, Paris is magical during any season!
Things to do
Like most European cities, Paris has lots of monuments and things to see, probably more than most cities.
Eiffel Tower
Louvre Museum
Arc de Triomphe
Notre Dame Cathedral
Moulin Rouge
Take a cruise on the water through Paris
Orsay Museum
Walk through the neighbourhood of Montmartre
Sacre-Coeur
Luxembourg Gardens
Take a day trip to Versailles
Do some shopping
Eat an abundance of delicious French food!
Drink wine on the Seine
