15 Things to Know Before Going to Paris – Get Essential Tips on Transport, Dining, Etiquette, and More to Make Your Trip Stress-Free!
Whether it’s your first time or a return visit, knowing what to expect can make all the difference. These things to know before going to Paris will help you navigate the city like a pro—from public transport and tipping culture to avoiding common tourist scams and choosing the best time to visit. Learn about local dining etiquette, why comfortable shoes are a must, and how to save time with skip-the-line tickets. Plus, we’ll cover important details like Sunday closures, where to find free drinking water, and the best way to enjoy the Seine River. Keep reading to make the most of your Paris adventure!
Paris Tipping
Tipping in Paris isn’t a thing—you don’t have to tip, and it’s not expected. If you really enjoyed the service, you can leave a small tip (1-2 euros), but service charges are already included in workers’ salaries.
That said, watch out for tipping scams! Some restaurants, especially in touristy areas, sneak a tip onto the bill without telling you, knowing that many tourists (especially Americans) are used to tipping.
Another sneaky trick? If they think you don’t speak French, they might give you an English menu with higher prices than the regular French one.
Honestly, it’s best to avoid super touristy restaurants anyway—they’re overpriced and usually not that great. Just walk a few minutes away from the main attractions, and you’ll find amazing spots with better food, better service, and a more authentic Parisian vibe. You might not get that perfect Eiffel Tower view, but trust me, a charming Parisian street with incredible food is just as magical.
Paris Dining Etiquette
In Paris, lunch usually happens between 12 PM and 2 PM, and dinner kicks off around 8 PM and can go until 10 PM.
And here’s the thing—meals are super laid-back and slow-paced. The waiters aren’t going to rush you or keep checking in every five minutes. If you need something, you’ll have to catch their attention.
Oh, and when you’re ready to leave, you have to ask for the check, which is called “l’addition”.
If you want to see it all in action, check out the video we made—it’s linked below and gives you the full experience.
Do French People Speak English?
Yes, a lot of them do, and if they spot you’re a tourist, they’ll probably switch to English (which is super helpful if you’re just visiting, but kind of a bummer if you’re trying to practice your French).
But here’s the thing: they’ll be way more willing to help you out and go the extra mile if they see you making an effort with the language. Trust me, they appreciate it, and it usually pays off! So, learning a couple of common phrases couldn’t hurt.
Getting Around Paris on the Metro
First things first—if you can avoid driving in Paris, do it. Traffic is a nightmare, and parking is very difficult and expensive.
The metro is hands down the best way to get around Paris. Of course, we always recommend walking whenever you can, because that’s when you get to see all the beautiful sights up close. But if you’re trying to get from one spot to another quickly, the metro is your best bet.
Pro tip: download the Île de France Mobilités or Bonjour RAPT app. You can buy single tickets or a digital Navigo pass ahead of time, so no waiting in line at ticket machines, just scan your phone to get through. Make sure your phone has NFC turned on!
Single tickets are 2,50€, and it’s 13€ one way to or from the airport. If you’re planning to ride a lot, a day pass is 12€, though keep in mind it doesn’t include the airport ride.
Metro Stops to Avoid and Why
If you want to get around the Paris metro efficiently (and without losing your mind), try to avoid big interchange stations like Châtelet, Nation, Gare de Lyon, and Montparnasse. These stations are huge, confusing, and often require long walks between platforms, which can slow you down—especially if you’re carrying luggage or traveling during rush hour.
[Dangerous Metro Stops]
When Is The Best Time to Visit Paris?
Summer in Paris
The best time to visit Paris really depends on what you’re looking for. If you love warm weather, summer’s your best bet. There will be crowds, but not as many as you’d think since a lot of Parisians head out of the city for vacation, especially in August.
Paris in Fall and Paris in Spring
If you’re not a fan of big crowds, the shoulder seasons are perfect—think April to June (spring) and September to early November (fall). The weather is mild, and it’s also the best time to score deals on flights and accommodations. Plus, the spring blossoms and fall foliage are totally worth seeing.
Winter in Paris
And hey, let’s not forget about winter! Paris at Christmas is magical with all the lights and Christmas markets, so even though it’s a bit crowded, it’s definitely a bucket list experience.
Short Trips to Paris On a Budget
You don’t need to book a pricey, 2 week-long trip to enjoy Paris. There’s this myth that you need a lot of money to visit Paris, but that’s not true. You can totally explore Paris on a budget!
We’ve actually put together a 3-day itinerary that shows you how to enjoy all the must-see spots without breaking the bank. We’ve even got a 1-day itinerary for quick trips, plus a 3-day one if you’re not worried about sticking to a budget. And if you’re thinking of visiting in the fall or around Christmas, we’ve got special itineraries for those seasons too!
We love Paris, but we don’t always have the time (or the budget) for long trips. Our visits are usually no more than four days—and believe us, that’s plenty of time to experience the city! So if you’re worried you need a long stay to make it worth it, don’t be. You can do a budget-friendly trip to Paris in just a few days and still have an amazing time!
How to Spend Less Money in Paris – Paris on a Budget
One of the ways is to eat at bouillon restaurants.
If you want affordable classic French food, bouillon restaurants are a must-try. These historic spots date back to the 19th century and are known for their cozy vibe, art nouveau decor, and traditional dishes like boeuf bourguignon, onion soup, and crème brûlée.
Paris has seven bouillons, including the famous Bouillon Chartier (Grands Boulevards & Montparnasse), Bouillon Pigalle, Julien, République, Racine, and Pharamond. Pigalle, République, and Racine take reservations, while Chartier and Julien are first-come, first-served—so plan ahead if you don’t want to wait!
Our favorites? Racine and Julien for the decor, and Julien and République for the food. You can get escargots, steak frites, pain perdu, and wine for under 30€, but it’s possible to spend even less.
Skip-The-Line Tickets and Restaurant Reservations
Paris is one of the most visited cities in the world—which means crowds. Lots and lots of crowds.
That’s why we highly recommend getting skip-the-line tickets in advance for any attractions on your list. We did this for the Louvre and were so glad we did because the line to buy tickets was ridiculously long. With skip-the-line tickets, we got in super quickly, and trust me, those extra couple of euros are so worth it. You’ll save time, get to actually enjoy the attraction without rushing, and see more of the city overall.
Same goes for restaurants—whenever possible, make a reservation ahead of time. Popular spots fill up fast, and you don’t want to waste time wandering around looking for a table!
Paris – Cash or Credit?
Contactless payment is widely accepted, although having some cash for small purchases can be useful, but not necessary.
If you’re working with a different currency and are worried about conversion fees, we suggest downloading Revolut and applying for a digital travel card.
One of its biggest perks is no hidden currency conversion fees—you can pay in local currencies at the real exchange rate, avoiding the extra charges that banks and credit cards usually add. You can also withdraw cash from ATMs, and even track your spending in different currencies, all from your phone.
It’s a great way to save money and avoid surprises while traveling!
Is Paris Safe?
Pickpockets are pretty common in Paris, so it’s good to stay aware, especially on the metro or in crowded areas. Keep an eye on your stuff and watch out for common tourist scams like fake petitions or those “free” friendship bracelets, especially by the Sacré-Cœur—if someone tries to tie one on your wrist, just walk away.
That said, it’s not something that should stop you from visiting Paris. Even people who’ve dealt with it still have a great time and love their trip. For the most part, Paris is pretty safe, we’ve been there a few times and haven’t had any problems with safety.
However it’s always wise to be cautious in a big city.
Tap Water in Paris: Is It Safe to Drink?
In Paris, tap water is safe to drink.
And no need to constantly buy water, you can refill your bottle at public drinking fountains all over the city that are totally safe to drink.
To get free tap water at restaurants in Paris, simply ask for “une carafe d’eau” (a jug of water), which is a complimentary service.
How to See More of Paris in Less Time
Paris is big, so whenever you can combine two activities into one, it’s a good idea.
A picnic lunch along the bank of the Seine is a great way to enjoy a meal with a view. Grab some croissants and wine from a supermarket or boulangerie, and head over to a cute spot by the river.
Another great option is a Seine river cruise, especially if you’re short on time. It takes about an hour, and you’ll get to see a lot of the city along the way. Some include dinner, 3-course romantic dinners or live music if you want to make it extra special.
Or, you could book an open top tour bus to see all the important landmarks.
Another option is to go up the Arc de Triomphe at sunset for a nice view of the city. If you can, stick around until the Eiffel Tower sparkles for the first time—it looks great from up there.
The Eiffel Tower sparkles every evening for five minutes at the start of each hour, beginning at dusk and ending at 1 AM. So, if dusk falls at 8:35 PM, the first sparkle would be at 9:00 PM.
Sunday Closures
If you’re in Paris on a Sunday, don’t be surprised if you find a lot of smaller shops and restaurants closed—it’s totally normal.
But don’t worry! In tourist-heavy areas like the Champs-Élysées, Le Marais, and around the big department stores (Galeries Lafayette, Printemps), most places stay open. Bakeries? Some will be open in the morning, but many close by midday. If you need groceries, bigger supermarkets like Monoprix or Franprix often have limited hours.
So, if you have your heart set on a specific café or boutique, check their hours in advance or plan your shopping for another day!
Explore Beyond The Famous Landmarks
For a more local feel, check out neighborhoods like Le Marais, Canal Saint-Martin, and Montmartre. Each has its own vibe and is a nice break from the more touristy areas.
If you’re into green spaces, small luxury boutiques, and historic cafés, the 6th arrondissement is a great spot to explore. It’s home to the Luxembourg Gardens and the charming Saint-Germain-des-Prés area, both perfect for a stroll.
In conclusion…
Paris is an incredible city, but knowing a few insider tips can make your trip even better. From avoiding unnecessary tipping to navigating the metro like a pro, these little details can save you time, money, and hassle. Dining is a slow, relaxed experience, so don’t expect constant check-ins from waiters, and always ask for the bill when you’re ready to leave. While many Parisians speak English, a simple “bonjour” goes a long way in making interactions smoother. And if you want to experience Paris without breaking the bank, consider eating at bouillon restaurants, and taking advantage of free activities like strolling along the Seine or visiting public parks.
Whether you have just a few days or a couple of weeks, Paris is absolutely worth visiting. It’s a big city, but with smart planning—like combining activities, exploring beyond the major landmarks, and being aware of Sunday closures—you can make the most of your trip. Be mindful of pickpockets, but don’t let that stop you from enjoying everything the city has to offer. And remember, you don’t need to spend a fortune to have an amazing time. With the right approach, Paris can be both magical and budget-friendly!
Get More Paris Insights: Must-Read Guides
If you’re looking for more Paris tips, be sure to check out some of my other posts! For budget-friendly travel ideas, take a look at Paris on a Budget: Cheap Travel in Paris. Or, if you want a budget-friendly itinerary for a short trip, check out 3 days in Paris on a Budget. If you’re visiting in the fall, my Paris in Autumn: Your Complete Travel Guide will help you plan the perfect autumn getaway. And if you’re heading to Paris for the holidays, don’t miss my guide on Top Things to Do at Christmas Time in Paris France 2024. All these posts are packed with helpful tips to make your trip unforgettable!
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