Paris Travel Tips
Paris is one of the greatest cities in the world. But it’s also a place where a little advance knowledge can make your trip dramatically smoother.
Over the years, I’ve seen clients get tripped up by things like Metro tickets, museum closures, Eiffel Tower reservations, and yes… the occasional pickpocket.
So if Paris is on your radar, here are a few practical tips that will make your visit much easier.
Always Say Bonjour
When you enter a shop, café, bakery, or even approach a counter, the first thing you should say is “Bonjour.”
This is not optional in France — it’s basic politeness. Walking up and immediately asking for something without saying hello first is considered rude.
Just a simple “Bonjour” before anything else goes a long way.
Coffee Is Not a To-Go Situation
Parisians generally sit down and drink their coffee rather than walking around with it.
You’ll see locals linger over an espresso at the bar or at a café table, even if they only stay a few minutes.
Also, if you want a large American-style coffee, ordering a café crème or café allongé will usually get you closer to what you’re expecting than simply asking for coffee.
The Check Won’t Come Until You Ask
In Paris restaurants, servers will almost never bring the check unless you ask for it.
This isn’t bad service — it’s the opposite. The assumption is that you are enjoying your table and should not be rushed.
When you’re ready, simply say:
“L’addition, s’il vous plaît.”
Don’t Expect Ice or Endless Refills
Water is always available in restaurants — you can ask for “une carafe d’eau” (a pitcher of tap water).
But things like large glasses of ice water and free soda refills are generally not part of the culture.
Mastering the Paris Metro
The Paris Metro is usually the fastest way to get around the city. Once you understand it, it’s very straightforward.
These days the easiest option is to buy a Navigo Easy pass or load tickets directly onto your phone. The old paper tickets are slowly disappearing and are easy to lose anyway.
Google Maps works very well for navigating the Metro, and the Citymapper app is also excellent.
A couple practical tips:
• Metro service runs roughly 5:30 a.m. to around 1:00 a.m. (later on weekends)
• Some transfers involve long corridors and stairs, so allow a little extra time
• Let passengers exit the train before boarding — Parisians are very serious about this
And if you have luggage, avoid the Metro during rush hour if at all possible.
The Airport Ticket Trap
One thing that surprises many visitors: a normal Metro ticket does not cover the airport.
If you're taking the train to Charles de Gaulle or Orly, you need a special airport ticket (currently about €14 each way).
This catches people all the time at the ticket machines.
Eiffel Tower Tickets Are Harder Than You Think
If going up the Eiffel Tower is important to you, book your tickets in advance.
Timed tickets regularly sell out, especially if you want to go all the way to the summit.
One other thing many travelers don't realize: if you buy a ticket only to the second floor, you can't simply add the summit later. That decision happens when you purchase the ticket.
Notre-Dame Tickets: Free but Still Requires Planning
Entering Notre-Dame Cathedral is free.
However, because demand is so high, the cathedral often uses free timed reservations, which are usually released the day before or same day.
If you see a long line outside, it’s often because people are waiting without reservations.
Pickpockets in Paris
Paris is generally safe, but pickpockets do operate in tourist areas and on the Metro.
Most of it relies on distraction.
Typical scenarios include:
• Someone bumping into you as Metro doors open
• A group crowding around you on stairs
• Someone asking you to sign a petition
• A commotion designed to distract you
Simple precautions work well:
• Keep bags zipped and worn in front of you in crowded places
• Avoid wallets or phones in back pockets
• Don't leave your phone sitting on a café table
Just staying aware solves most of the problem.
Museum Scheduling Can Trip People Up
Paris museums are incredible, but their schedules are not always intuitive.
Two important ones to remember:
• The Louvre is closed on Tuesdays
• Musée d’Orsay is closed on Mondays
That single detail has ruined many sightseeing plans.
Whenever possible, buy museum tickets online in advance.
A Quick Note About Bread in France
One small cultural difference that surprises Americans: bread in France is not an appetizer.
It’s meant to be eaten with the meal, usually alongside your main course, rather than before the food arrives.
You’ll often see a basket of bread placed directly on the table, sometimes even on the tablecloth rather than on a plate. That’s normal.
And another thing: butter is usually not served.
The bread is there to accompany the meal or to help mop up sauces at the end. If you’re waiting for butter to arrive, you may be waiting a while.
Ask Your Server What Wine to Order
One of my favorite Paris tips: always ask your server for a wine recommendation.
Parisian servers know their wines and genuinely enjoy helping people find something good.
You don’t need to overthink it. Just ask what they recommend with your meal.
More often than not, you’ll end up with a fantastic bottle you never would have chosen on your own.
The Biggest Paris Mistake
Trying to do too much.
Paris looks compact on a map, but days disappear quickly between museums, Metro rides, long lunches, and simply wandering beautiful neighborhoods.
Two or three major sights in a day is usually plenty.
Leave room for strolling, cafés, and those moments when you turn a corner and realize you’re in one of the most beautiful cities in the world.
If you'd like help planning a Paris trip — from the right neighborhood to stay in, to the best guides and experiences — I'm always happy to help. . Book a complimentary vacation consultation here.
Sometimes the difference between a good Paris trip and an extraordinary one is simply knowing which doors to open.
About Krista
I’m a Virtuoso travel advisor based in West Palm Beach, Florida. I attended the University of Notre Dame for undergrad and I have my MBA from the University of Chicago. Before building my travel business, I spent 20 years in the investment management industry and over a decade living and working in London, England. I’ve personally traveled to 80 countries and now design thoughtful, highly customized trips for travelers who value expertise, access, and a seamless experience.
I offer a complimentary 30-minute consultation for travelers considering a custom itinerary or luxury cruise. Book a complimentary vacation consultation here.
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