Planning a trip to Paris? Avoid the common tourist pitfalls with these insider tips that will help you experience the city like a local.
1. Don’t Shop on the Champs-Elysées
Once revered as the most beautiful avenue globally, the Champs-Elysées has succumbed to commercialization, dominated by global chain stores and tourist-targeted eateries. Instead, venture into the chic Marais neighborhood for designer boutiques on Rue des Francs-Bourgeois or explore the haute-couture offerings of Avenue Montaigne and Rue du Faubourg St. Honoré. For a touch of history, peruse Paris’s covered passages, such as Galerie Vivienne, showcasing French designers and antique treasures.
2. Don’t Get Starstruck at Mealtimes
While Paris boasts 66 Michelin-starred restaurants, the high prices and formalities of traditional fine dining may deter the discerning traveler. Opt for convivial bistros like Le Comptoir du Relais or Café Constant, where Michelin-starred chefs offer outstanding yet affordable meals. Consider booking lunch reservations for a taste of haute cuisine at a fraction of the dinner cost.
3. Don’t Spend All Day at the Louvre or Musée d’Orsay
Avoid the crowds and long lines at Paris’s iconic museums by exploring lesser-known alternatives. Discover Monet’s masterpieces at the Musée de l’Orangerie or the Musée Marmottan, home to the world’s largest collection of Monet’s works. Embrace the intimate ambiance of the Musée Rodin or explore museums focusing on fashion, wine, and other eclectic themes for a unique cultural experience.
4. Don’t Commit a Fashion Faux Pas
Blend in with Parisian style by opting for a clean, coordinated look. Avoid wearing shorts or flashy athletic shoes, and instead, opt for classic black attire accessorized with a statement scarf or hat. Keep your outfit simple, well-fitted, and effortlessly chic for an authentic Parisian flair.
5. Don’t Get Around Town in a Cab
Escape Paris’s notorious traffic by embracing the art of flâner, or leisurely strolling, through the city streets. Explore Paris on foot to immerse yourself in its vibrant culture, from window shopping along charming boulevards to observing sidewalk café interactions. Utilize the efficient Métro system for longer distances, ensuring a convenient and authentic Parisian experience.
1. Don’t Seek Out Bohemian Ambience on the Left Bank
Les Deux Magots on Boulevard St. Germain may have lost its allure as a haven for intellectuals, replaced by tourist crowds and inflated prices. Instead, venture to the Canal St. Martin area, embraced by bohemian hipsters and dotted with trendy cafés and boutiques along Rue Beaurepaire. Sit at Chez Prune, soak in the canal views, and relish the ambiance of real Paris.
2. Don’t Waste Time at the Eiffel Tower
Avoid the crowds and long queues at the Eiffel Tower by opting for a more civilized experience at Les Ombres, the rooftop restaurant of the Musée du Quai Branly. Indulge in French classics while marveling at panoramic views of the iconic tower. For a magical evening, witness the tower’s ethereal glow and sparkling lights while savoring a delightful meal.
3. Don’t Book the Cheapest Hotel
Escape the mundane hotel experience by booking a furnished apartment in Paris. Furnished apartments offer ample living space, allowing you to immerse yourself in the city’s atmosphere. Opt for a central location in the single-digit arrondissements, ensuring convenient access to Parisian delights. Experience true Parisian living as you unwind in your private pied-à-terre.
4. Don’t Fill Up on Croissants
While croissants are a Parisian staple, expand your culinary horizons by indulging in French macarons. Delicate and flavorful, macarons offer a delightful treat with a variety of enticing flavors. Sample renowned macarons from Ladurée, Pierre Hermé, and Gérard Mulot to discover your favorite.
5. Don’t Buy Into Stereotypes
Dispelling stereotypes about Parisians, embrace cultural nuances and etiquettes to foster positive interactions. Learn basic French phrases and greet locals with a friendly “Bonjour.” Practice mindful manners, such as speaking softly and respecting personal space, to foster mutual respect and appreciation.
