Paris is one of the most visited cities in the world, but it can also be one of the most overwhelming. With so many attractions, museums, monuments, and restaurants, how can you make the most of your trip and avoid the tourist traps? The answer is simple: experience Paris like a local. Click here for useful insight and information before planning a trip to Paris.
Here are some tips on how to do that.
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1. Stay in a cozy apartment
One of the best ways to feel at home in Paris is to stay in a cozy apartment instead of a hotel. You can find many options on platforms like Airbnb or Vrbo, where you can rent a flat from a local host. This way, you can enjoy the comforts of a fully equipped kitchen, a living room, and a bedroom and get a glimpse of how Parisians live. You can also save money by cooking meals and shopping at local markets.
2. Explore the neighborhoods
Paris is divided into 20 districts, called arrondissements, each with character and charm. Instead of sticking to the main sights, explore the different neighborhoods and discover their hidden gems. For example, you can visit the Latin Quarter for its lively atmosphere, bookshops, and cafes; Montmartre for its artistic vibe, hilltop views, and Sacré-Cœur basilica; or Le Marais for its trendy boutiques, galleries, and museums.
3. Use public transportation
Public transportation is one of the best ways to get around Paris. The metro system is fast, efficient, and covers most of the city. You can buy a ticket for 1.90 euros or a pack of 10 tickets for 16.90 euros. You can also use buses, trams, or trains for longer distances. Another option is to rent a bike from one of the many Vélib stations around the city. You can pay 5 euros for a day pass or 15 euros for a week pass and enjoy unlimited rides of up to 30 minutes.
4. Eat like a local
Paris is famous for its cuisine, but you don’t have to spend a fortune to enjoy it. You can find many affordable and delicious options if you know where to look. Head to a bakery and order a croissant or a pain au chocolat with coffee for breakfast. For lunch, grab a sandwich, a salad, or a quiche from a boulangerie or a grocery store. Look for bistros or brasseries offering fixed menus or daily specials for dinner. And don’t forget to try some local specialties, such as cheese, wine, crepes, macarons, or baguettes.
5. Learn some French
Finally, one of the best ways to experience Paris like a local is to learn French. Even if you speak it less fluently, knowing some basic phrases and words can make a big difference in your interactions with locals. You can use apps like Duolingo or Babbel to learn some vocabulary and grammar before your trip. Or you can take a class or join a language exchange once in Paris. You’ll be surprised by how much more you’ll enjoy your stay if you can communicate with the locals in their language.
What you should avoid
1.Don’t wear clothes that scream “tourist”. Avoid flashy logos, baseball caps, sneakers, or anything that makes you stand out from the crowd. Instead, opt for simple, chic, and comfortable outfits that match the season and the occasion.
2.Don’t rely on taxis or Uber. Paris has a great public transportation system that can take you anywhere you want. You can use the metro, the bus, the tram, or even rent a bike or a scooter. Not only will you save money, but you will also get to see more of the city and its neighborhoods.
3.Don’t eat at chain restaurants or tourist traps. Paris is famous for its cuisine, but not all restaurants are created equal. Avoid places that have menus in multiple languages, pictures of food, or hawkers outside. Instead, look for local bistros, cafes, or markets where you can find authentic and delicious dishes.
4.Don’t limit yourself to the main attractions. Paris has much more to offer than the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, or Notre Dame. Explore the hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path spots that locals love. You can visit museums, parks, gardens, galleries, or street art that will give you a different perspective of the city.
5.Don’t be rude or impatient. Parisians have a reputation for being snobbish or unfriendly, but that’s not always true. They are just busy and reserved people who value their privacy and personal space. If you want to get along with them, be polite and respectful. Learn some basic French phrases, greet them with a smile, and don’t expect them to speak English or cater to your needs.