11 Useful Paris Travel Tips

Paris is a city famed for its romance, fashion, art, and culture. It is one of the world's most visited city, attracting around 27 million visitors every year. Home to popular landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre Museum, there are a plethora of things to see and do in this enchanting European city making finding things to do and planning for your itinerary a daunting task, whether you are a seasoned traveler or a virgin Parisian tourist. Here are some quick tips that might be helpful for your next trip to Paris.

Take your time

If you are in Paris for a short trip, plan your itinerary well. A trip to Paris shouldn't be hectic - you would want to have fun, relax and soak in the Parisian charms. Don't try to cram everything during your trip or you might miss out on the details let alone you will only end up with being exhausted.

Speak the language

The French are always known to be proud of their language and culture; it's to no surprise how important it is to be able to speak basic French phrases. While many Parisians do speak English, they prefer speaking in French despite knowing that you are a tourist (and probably incapable of saying anything in French). So make an effort to learn some basic French words or phrases such as bonjour (hello), au revoir (goodbye), merci (thank you) and s'il vous plait (please).

Explore outside the city

The outskirts of Paris are as enchanting as the city itself, offering a whole new flavor and a peek into the charming French allure. Explore beyond the city center such as Monet's Garden in Giverny, Chateau de Versailles and Fontainebleau Palace and Park for a fresher experience, most conveniently accessible by their public transports. There are plenty of hidden spots waiting to be discovered and Paris cannot be explored with just a map or a guidebook!

Drink wine and/or coffee

Yes, it's more than just boulangerie and pattiserie - do it like the locals by enjoying the Parisian gastronomy culture with a glass of wine to go with your lunch and afterwards a cup of coffee; simply relax and enjoy the moment with a good book or just watch people go by. Tip: Take part in Paris' cafe culture in Marais, an old medieval district and the oldest part of Paris. Marais buzzes with cafes and boutiques and makes a perfect getaway from the museums.

Eat in the park

The city's vibrant street culture calls for grab-and-go options-meal for breakfast, lunch or anytime of the day. Eat fresh baguette with French cheese and jambon (ham) on a park bench or while strolling along the boulevard. It's another great way to observe the locals and their daily activities or simply admire the tranquil French-style gardens. If that is not convincing enough, think of it as a way to travel on a shoestring budget.

Take a "hop-on-hop-off" bus tour

If it is your first time in Paris, we'd highly recommend that you take the hop-on-hop-off bus tour. The bus follows a route that will take you to every popular attractions in the city such as the Eiffel Tower, Trocadero, and the Louvre Museum. You can opt for a day or two-day pass. One such is the Paris L'Open Tour tickets where you can easily purchase a 2-day pass here. You won't have to worry about missing the classics!

Buy tickets before your arrive

Book tickets ahead if you don't want to spend hours lining up to get to the top of Eiffel Tower or the Louvre Museum, for instance. Most Paris attraction spots have their own dedicated website where you can purchase tickets before you start traveling; there are also online travel agents that sells skip-the-line or express lane tickets on their website which lets you print beforehand.

Shop at flea markets

No trip in Paris is complete without a visit to Paris' marché aux puces or flea markets. Shop for antique collections, books, retro handbags and jewelries, crystal chandeliers and contemporary artifacts. The largest and most famous flea market is at St Ouen at Porte de Clingancourt. Established around the year 1870, the St. Ouen Flea Market attracts more than 11 million visitors per year and boasts over 2,500 stalls!

Do the unconventional

Next time you're in Paris, why not set your goals by trying something new? Brave yourself for a once-in-a-lifetime experience by visiting the Catacombs, an underground cemetery that runs through the city of Paris. Not for the faint-hearted; but if you are into spooky encounters, the Catacombs will definitely add a dose of thrill into your Parisian adventure. If getting lost in a maze under the streets is not your cup of tea, try joining the locals instead for a roller skating tour or Pari Roller through the city. This street event happens every Friday night from Place Raoul Dautry in the 14th Arrondissement to Montparnasse.

Stay safe

As beautiful and romantic as Paris can be, one cannot stress enough that there are many pickpockets loom the city without anyone noticing them. Beware of pickpockets especially in the metro or any crowded area. Be wary of individuals offering their services or products. While this advice applies to every other cities in the world, many tourists, mesmerized by the city's charms, tend to forget about their safety. Stay alert!

Know what you want

Last but not least, be sure that you know your expectations when visiting Paris. If you are in it for the food, research ahead of time for some of the best cafes and restaurants; if you would like to see more of their arts exhibits, get to know their museums. Paris can be enjoyed in many, many ways and it is up to you to decide what you want out of your trip.