Paris is a city that captures your heart like no other, full of cozy sidewalk cafes, shiny boutiques, top-notch museums, and countless activities. But Paris can also be very disappointing, especially if you’re stuck in a crowd of tourists, overpaying for a mediocre meal, or staying at an expensive hotel with tiny rooms, poor internet, and bad plumbing. With such huge let downs, it’s easy to wonder where the magical Paris you heard about has gone. But don’t worry, that’s why I’m here to help! As an American tour guide who leads groups through Paris every few months, I’ve seen it all. Having experienced all the ups and downs Paris has to offer, I’ve gained valuable insights that I’ve distilled into my personal guide to the top do’s and don’ts, to help you avoid the pitfalls and navigate the city effectively and most enjoyably. With this guide you can skip the common mistakes and make your trip truly unforgettable.
1 Don’t: Overspend on Michelin-Starred Dinners
While dining at a Michelin-starred restaurant in Paris can seem like the ultimate culinary experience, the exorbitant prices can often leave you feeling less than satisfied. For many Americans, the small portion sizes typical at these establishments don’t quite match the hefty cost, leaving you still hungry and questioning the value of your meal. Prices this high can indeed dampen your spirits and detract from the overall enjoyment, casting a shadow over what should be a delightful culinary experience. I remember once splurging €260 on a single egg at a three-starred Michelin restaurant. Although it was a good egg, I couldn’t help but feel that I had paid about €255 too much.
But if you must try these world famous restaurants, many Michelin-starred spots, from Le Clarence to Dame de Pic and the famed Le Jules Verne restaurant at the Eiffel Tower, have much more reasonably priced lunch menus for less than $150.
Do: Enjoy Evening Meals at Casual, Modern Bistros
Shift your focus to the numerous casual, modern bistros popping up around Paris, many of which are run by Michelin-starred chefs who have stepped away from the formal dining scene. These bistros offer a warm, inviting atmosphere where the food is both outstanding and reasonably priced. You’ll leave feeling that you’ve truly experienced the best of French culinary expertise without the sting of an oversized bill. At places like Yves Camdeborde’s Le Comptoir du Relais in the sixth arrondissement, the delicious dishes, such as the famed foie gras terrine, come at a fraction of what you’d pay at a high-end restaurant. Similarly, Jean-Francois Piège’s venues like A l’Epi d’Or and Clover Grill offer fantastic meals that highlight the richness of French cuisine, ensuring you walk away both full and happy, eager to return.
2 Don’t: Over-do the Louvre
Attempting to view all the exhibits at the massive and overwhelming Louvre can leave you feeling exhausted and frustrated. With the sheer volume and variety, it’s common to end up overwhelmed, leading to a rushed experience where you hardly remember what you saw. Instead, manage your expectations by making a plan in advance. Focus on specific works or wings you are most interested in, and dedicate quality time to these areas, leaving the rest for future visits.
Do: Explore Smaller Museums and Seasonal Attractions
Balance your time between the grandeur of the Louvre and the charm of Paris’s smaller museums. These venues often offer a more relaxed and intimate setting, enhancing your appreciation of the art. For instance, the Musée de l’Orangerie, located at the end of the Tuileries Gardens, houses Monet’s serene Nymphéas murals; the Musée Marmottan features the largest collection of Monet’s works; and the Musée Rodin, set in a beautiful villa with a romantic garden, provides a tranquil retreat. If you’re looking for something lighter, the Palais Galliera, the city’s leading fashion museum, offers engaging exhibits like the Gabrielle Chanel retrospective. Discovering the unique charm of these smaller galleries might just make you reconsider the need to see everything at the Louvre, leading to a more memorable and satisfying museum experience in Paris.
Paris is a city that constantly evolves with the seasons, offering visitors a variety of unique attractions throughout the year. From the enchanting Christmas markets that light up the winter streets to the colorful spring blooms in the Jardin des Tuileries, each season brings its own charm. Another major seasonal highlight is the Paris Fashion Week, showcasing cutting-edge designs in one of the fashion capitals of the world.
This dynamic scene is set to become even more vibrant with the addition of the Summer Olympics in 2024. The Olympics will transform Paris into a global stage for sports, adding an extraordinary layer of excitement to its seasonal offerings. So whether you’re exploring the romantic winter lights or enjoying the summer games, Paris promises a spectacular experience in any season.
And while you’re exploring smaller museums and seasonal attractions, don’t forget to visit iconic landmarks like Notre Dame Cathedral, Sacré-Cœur, and Montmartre. These sites offer unique perspectives on Parisian history and culture, each with its own charm and significance.
3 Don’t Over Shop the Champs-Elysées
Don’t limit yourself to shopping on the Champs-Elysées. Although it’s a famous landmark, it often feels like you’re on a tourist conveyor belt, rushing past generic chain stores and dodging crowds, which can be both overwhelming and underwhelming. The area can make you feel both cramped and as though you’re missing out on the unique Parisian charm. Furthermore, many of the stores on the Champs-Elysées are the same you could find in any major city around the world, often with higher price tags.
However, if you find yourself on the Champs-Elysées, consider a visit to Galeries Lafayette Champs-Elysées. This innovative concept store breaks from the norm by offering a refreshing shopping experience that combines emerging and international designers. Here, you’ll find a seamless mix of fashion, food, and accessories laid out over four spacious floors, providing a modern twist to the traditional department store model.
Ultimately, while the Champs-Elysées is iconic, its commercial atmosphere and global brands don’t deliver the unique Parisian experience we seek. The Champs-Elysées can be seriously off-putting because of the bustling atmosphere – lacking the intimate and leisurely shopping experience, the noise and chaos can detract from the enjoyment, and it’s easy to feel hurried by the pace and sheer volume of people.
Do: Explore Unique Shops
Instead, immerse yourself in the authentic Parisian shopping vibe by heading to less touristy areas. In neighborhoods like North Marais or along rue du Château d’Eau in the 10th arrondissement, you’ll find unique brands and artisanal crafts. Even the traditional department stores there are diversifying their offerings with limited-edition collections from today’s hottest designers.
For a truly delightful experience, visit Galerie Vivienne. Nestled just north of the Palais Royal, this elegant covered passage offers a serene escape from the city’s hustle. Here, under the beautiful vaulted glass ceilings and amidst the intricate wrought iron details, you can enjoy browsing antique book dealers, art galleries, and quirky toy shops. Galerie Vivienne invites you to savor the historical ambiance, appreciate the artistic surroundings, and find genuinely unique items, leaving you feeling enchanted, relaxed, and connected to Paris’s rich cultural heritage.
4 Don’t: Book the Cheapest Hotel
While securing a low-cost hotel in Paris might seem like a triumph, it can often lead to disappointment. Finding yourself in a nondescript, beige room on the city’s outskirts can make you feel isolated and disconnected, stripping away the enchanting Parisian atmosphere you came for. This choice can not only affect your mood but also your overall perception of Paris, as you miss out on the vibrant life and culture in the city center, ultimately detracting from your travel experience.
Do: Book a Boutique Hotel
Opting for one of Paris’s boutique hotels, while not the cheapest accommodation option, involves only a modest increase in cost and can profoundly enhance your overall experience. These hotels are often beautifully designed and provide an intimate setting, allowing you to immerse yourself in the city’s charm and elegance fully. The slight difference in price is quickly offset by the enriched experience these settings offer, making you feel pampered and deeply connected to Parisian life. For example, staying at places like The Hoxton, with its plush lounges and spacious courtyards, or the Hotel National des Arts et Métiers, known for its expertly crafted cocktails in a chic ambiance, adds a layer of luxury and convenience that greatly contributes to the enjoyment of your trip. Moreover, hotels such as the Art Deco-inspired Hotel Rochechouart or the trendy Le Chouchou Hotel place you in the heart of the city, amid vibrant cultural events and the local scene, ensuring your stay is both fulfilling and unforgettable. This small additional investment in your accommodations guarantees a significantly richer and more authentic Parisian experience.
5 Don’t: Spend Hours at the Eiffel Tower
While the Eiffel Tower is undeniably iconic, recent changes have made visiting less appealing. Following a series of terror attacks in the city, heavy security checkpoints have been installed, eliminating the possibility of freely walking underneath the monument. Now, visitors must navigate through lengthy security lines on both wings of the tower just to get close. Additionally, if you’re considering climbing to the top, be prepared for it to significantly extend your visit—and keep in mind that it doesn’t even offer the best view in the city.
Do: Find a View and Shorter Lines
For those looking to capture a stunning panorama of Paris that includes the Eiffel Tower, consider alternative viewpoints that offer both a spectacular scene and shorter waiting times. The top of the Arc de Triomphe, the Montparnasse Tower viewing deck, or the Tour Saint Jacques (open from June to September for about $12 a ticket) are excellent choices. These locations provide breathtaking views without the hassle of long lines, allowing you to make the most of your time and enjoy a more relaxed sightseeing experience.
6 Don’t: Get Around Town in a Cab or Electric Scooter
Navigating Paris by taxi can be frustrating; they’re hard to come by and can’t be hailed directly from the street—you need to book one or head to a taxi stand. Once you’re on your way, Paris’s infamous traffic jams can trap you in a cab, watching helplessly as the meter climbs during unexpected stops behind double-parked cars. This can quickly become a stressful, costly experience. Similarly, while electric scooters like those from Lime and Bird might seem convenient, they’re controversial and currently unregulated, leading to numerous accidents and local dissatisfaction, with many Parisians advocating for their ban.
Do: Take to Heart the French Word Flâner
Embrace the art of flânerie, which means more than just strolling; it’s about walking through the city to truly experience it. Paris’s compact center offers the perfect backdrop for this, with plenty of opportunities for window shopping, people watching at cafes, and enjoying the city’s vibrant street scenes—all while walking off that extra croissant. For longer distances, the Métro is an efficient alternative. It’s inexpensive, often quicker than a taxi, and stations are conveniently located throughout the city. For a more scenic route, consider using one of the city’s Vélib’ bikes, now safer than ever with 50 km of new dedicated cycle paths added around the city. However, be aware that renting a Vélib’ bike requires a credit card with a smart chip.
7 Don’t: Seek Out Bohemian Ambience on the Left Bank
While the Left Bank, and specifically Les Deux Magots on Boulevard St. Germain, may evoke images of Sartre and de Beauvoir’s intellectual rendezvous, today, this area resembles less of a philosophical haven and more of a tourist trap akin to Times Square. The charm once found in its bohemian ambiance has largely faded, replaced by steep prices that might leave you more annoyed than inspired—like pondering the immorality of a $16 charge for buttered toast and orange juice.
Do: Find the “Real” Paris on the Canal St. Martin
Shift your search for authentic Parisian charm to the Canal St. Martin in the 10th arrondissement. This is the new, modern seine. This area, once overlooked and derelict, has been reclaimed by bobo (bourgeois bohemian) hipsters and is now teeming with life, featuring bustling cafés and trendy boutiques along Rue Beaurepaire. For a truly enjoyable experience, visit the Paname Brewing Company located on the Basin de la Villette. Here, you can relax on the veranda overlooking the water, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere and enjoying craft beers that capture the spirit of the neighborhood. This spot offers a genuine slice of Parisian life, far from the over-commercialized areas, making it a perfect place to experience the city’s contemporary bohemian vibe.
8 Don’t: Commit a Fashion Faux Pas
When in Paris, blending in fashion-wise means avoiding certain mistakes that scream ‘tourist.’ While shorts and trendy sneakers like Nike, Veja, Converse, and Vans have become more acceptable, excessively baggy shorts with cargo pockets are a dead giveaway. Most importantly, steer clear of the selfie stick. Not only does it draw the ire of locals, but it also makes you a target for pickpockets and scam artists, compromising both your experience and safety.
Do: Dress as the Locals Do
Emulating Parisian style doesn’t mean dressing up extravagantly; it’s about the effortless, clean, and coordinated look that the French have perfected. To blend in, opt for simple, tidy outfits with a palette of neutral colors. Accessorize modestly with a single statement piece like a bold scarf, hat, or piece of jewelry—just not all at once. Ensure your clothes fit well, top off your ensemble with a fitted jacket, and wear the best shoes you have. This approach not only boosts your confidence but also conveys a chic, effortless vibe that is quintessentially Parisian.
9 Don’t: Fill Up on Croissants
While it’s tempting to indulge in those flaky, golden croissants that Paris is famous for, limiting yourself to just these might mean missing out on other exceptional pastries that aren’t as common back home. Overindulging in just one type of pastry can lead to a sense of regret when you realize what unique and delicious options you’ve overlooked.
Do: Try a Variety of Sweet Treats
Paris’s pastry scene extends far beyond croissants and macarons. Broaden your horizons at places like Fou de Patisserie, which offers an array of stunning desserts, or Jacques Genin, known for its must-try pâtes de fruits. Don’t overlook Yann Couvreur in the 10th arrondissement for innovative creations, Bontemps Pâtisserie for their exquisite sablés, or Maison Aleph, which introduces exquisite Levantine flavors to the French pastry repertoire. Sampling these delights will not only satisfy your sweet tooth but also give you a fuller appreciation of the culinary artistry that Paris has to offer.
10 Don’t: Expect the French to be Rude
It’s a common stereotype that Parisians are rude—surly waiters, unhelpful salespeople, and a generally snobbish demeanor are all part of the notorious reputation. Indeed, Parisians can appear more reserved compared to the typically overt friendliness seen in many Americans. Their social norms do not generally embrace effusive smiling or instant camaraderie. However, entering interactions with the assumption that locals dislike you, and responding with rudeness, only perpetuates negativity and misses the subtleties of French social etiquette.
Do: Be Mindful of Your Manners
Adopting and respecting local customs can greatly enhance your experience in Paris. Make an effort to learn and use basic French phrases; even a simple “Bonjour, Madame” when entering a shop can make a significant difference in how you’re received. Remember, salespeople in France often expect a greeting as you enter their store, and a polite acknowledgment can set a positive tone for your interaction. Additionally, keep in mind that the French often speak in lower tones, so maintaining a similar volume can help you blend in more naturally. By showing respect for these nuances, you’ll likely find Parisians to be more receptive and perhaps even warm, debunking myths of coldness and earning you welcoming gestures in return.
Conclusion
Paris is a city of infinite layers and nuances, each promising its own unique set of experiences and memories. By following these top do’s and don’ts, you can avoid common pitfalls and embrace the rich tapestry of life that Paris offers. Whether it’s choosing the right place to shop, dine, or stay, each decision you make can transform your visit from a typical tourist experience to an unforgettable adventure. Remember, the true essence of Paris isn’t found in rushing from one landmark to another but in savoring each moment and embracing the city with an open heart and mind. With this guide, you’re well on your way to experiencing the best of Paris like a true local.
