What You Need to Know Before Spending a Day in Paris
However, if you’re anything like me, Paris isn’t just a destination, it’s a dream.
With its iconic architecture, quaint streets, and bountiful culture, this city calls for solo adventurers like us with promises of adventure and self-discovery.
Paris is not just somewhere you visit, it’s somewhere you feel, deep inside, personal.
In this article, I will be your guide, providing everything you need to know before you spend a day in Paris.
From getting around by Metro and where to find the best croissant to soaking in the city’s artsy vibes, I’ve got you covered.
My first time visiting Paris was nothing short of magical. I stood at the foot of the Eiffel Tower, absorbing its majestic presence and that of a bustling city around me.
It was pure magic that I want you to feel.
Inside, tips on how to plan your day, must-see sights and some hidden gems you won’t find in the normal tpb.
Ready?
So let’s go to the City of Light.
What to Prepare for Your Day in Paris
Research and Planning
It is important to plan your day in Paris.
The city is full of wonders, and a little preparation can go a long way.
We recommend starting with some trustworthy travel sources and apps.
For navigating public transportation I recommend apps like Citymapper, and for organizing your itinerary, try TripIt.
Both are lifesavers.
Packing Essentials
This is not the time for packing. Keep it light and practical.
This should suffice: a small backpack
Bring along a reusable water bottle, a pocket-sized umbrella (the weather in Paris can behave unpredictably), and a portable charger for your devices.
Come with layers, because the weather can vary during the day.
Make sure to bring comfortable shoes, you will walk a lot trust me!
Navigating Paris
Transportation Options
Once you get the hang of it, getting around Paris is fairly simple.
The Metro is your best friend here.
It’s efficient, fairly inexpensive and goes to most of the big highlights.
Pick up a day pass or a carnet (a stash of 10 tickets), to save a few euros.
Another alternative are buses, which bus you through the city in a sight-seeing manner.
Bikers can rent a Vélib’ bike for a spin.
Walking in Paris
Walking in Paris is an experience !
The city reveals its charms while strolling its veins.
Be vigilant and aware at all times, especially in crowded places.
Focus on pedestrian-friendly places such as the riverbanks along the Seine or the narrow streets of Le Marais.
Not only safe, it is, to be honest, so scenic.
Must-Visit Attractions
Iconic Landmarks
No trip to Paris is complete without a visit to its famous monuments.
Start with the Eiffel Tower.
To avoid the crowds, be sure to visit early in the morning or late in the evening.
The top-of-the-structure view is incredible, but even the ground-level view is still spectacular if your time is limited.
Next is — The Louvre Museum.
No visit will be complete without a ticket — book one online in advance so you can skip the lines.
Look for a few specific pieces, such as the Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo, so you don’t get overwhelmed.”
The museum is so large that it tends to be overwhelming, but some planning can get you through it with a little more pleasure.
It was still a sight to behold, Notre Dame Cathedral, even after the fire.
You may not be able to go inside, but the outside and the area around it are all worth visiting.
Or the Sainte-Chapelle - it has beautiful (though stained) windows, absolutely gorgeous.
Hidden Gems
Every city has its good, but Paris is particularly blessed with hidden gems.
The Musée de l’Orangerie is one of my personal favorites.
It’s smaller than the Louvre, but it has Monet’s Water Lilies and they are really beautiful.
Another jewel is the Rue Crémieux, a colorful street that’s a good place for a quiet stroll and great photos.
For a less touristy experience, discover the Canal Saint-Martin district.
It’s a nice place for a promenade and there are many good cafes and boutiques.
And finally, the secret vineyard of Montmartre, a piece of countryside in the heart of Paris.
Food and Dining
Cafés and Bakeries
No visit to Paris would be complete without sampling its notable cafés and bakeries.
Start off your morning at Café de Flore or Les Deux Magots, both legendary places that have been famous brew houses for Parisians and tourists for decades.
For a real Parisian pastry experience, go to Pierre Hermé for their world-famous macarons or Boulangerie Poilâne for a fresh-baked, buttery croissant.
Solo travelers will find the warm and welcoming environment of these cafés ideal for the people-watching, or planning your day’s adventures.
Lunch and Dinner Options
For lunch and dinner, Paris abounds with affordable, delicious bistros.
For lunch, consider something classic bistro, like Le Comptoir du Relais, where you can have croque-monsieur or a fresh salade niçoise.
If you’re in the mood for something heartier at dinner, Chez Janou serves delicious Provençal food in a relaxed environment.
Menus in French can be daunting, and don’t hesitate to ask the server for (recommended) translations.
Most are happy to help.
Street Food and Markets
If you are after a less formal dining experience, dive into the vibrant street food scene in Paris. Pick up a crepe from any of the many street vendors — Nutella and banana is a favorite.
For something savory, go for a galette, a buckwheat crepe stuffed with ham, cheese and egg.
Markets such as Marché d’Aligre have a cross section of fresh produce, cheeses and meats.
It’s a good spot to grab some picnic provisions and eat alfresco in one of the many parks around the city.
Experiencing Parisian Culture
Art and Museums
For art lovers, Paris is a paradise.
Another must, besides the Louvre, which you already planned to hit is the Musée d’Orsay.
Set in a former railway station, the museum contains an extraordinary collection of Impressionist masterpieces.
For a more contemporary feel, visit the Centre Pompidou, which has sweeping contemporary art exhibitions.
And if you have a moment, don’t miss lesser-known treasures, like the Musée Rodin, which is housed in a lovely garden.
Parks and Gardens
The parks and gardens of Paris are wonderful for lounging and people-watching.
In Jardin du Luxembourg, locals and tourists tend to relax in beautiful landscapes and numerous seating avenues.
The gardens come alive with colorful blooms in spring and summer.
For a more peaceful getaway, you can head to Parc des Buttes-Chaumont, which has a lake, waterfalls and a temple located on a cliff.
Cultural Etiquette
Getting into the cultural etiquette will really help make your time in Paris more enjoyable.
The French are big on manners, so always greet shop and café staff with a friendly “Bonjour.”
It’s also helpful to know some basic phrases in French, like “s’il vous plaît” (please) and “merci” (thank you).
Dining out is now a long process, so don’t rush.
Take your time and enjoy it.
Shopping in Paris
Fashion and Boutiques
Fashion is the heart and soul of Paris and those traveling alone will have no shortage of trendy spots to flit to.
Le Marais is a mecca for chic boutiques and vintage shops.
Wander down Rue des Francs-Bourgeois for original fashion finds.
If high fashion is more your style, the famous Champs-Élysées and Avenue Montaigne are home to flagship stores of international luxury brands.
Souvenirs and Local Products
As for souvenirs, skip the touristy trinket shops and look for authentic local products.
Stop by the concept store Merci, in the Marais, to pick up fashionable home goods and fashion accessories.
For a foodie treat, head to La Grande Épicerie de Paris, a sprawling store filled with French goodies to take home.
Seek out local specialties such as artisanal soaps, local wines, and gourmet chocolates.
Evening Activities
Sunset Spots
Catching the sunset in Paris is nothing short of an enchanting experience.
The steps of the Sacré-Cœur Basilica in Montmartre provide a panoramic view of the city, a fine place to watch the sky change color.
Another wonderful location is the Pont Alexandre III bridge, for beautiful views of the Seine and the Eiffel Tower.
Nightlife
There is something for everyone in Parisian nightlife.
For a high-energy scene, travel to Le Marais for hip bars and cruising clubs.
For something more low-key, head to a wine bar like Le Baron Rouge and sip some great French wines.
Always be responsible when out, so keep vigilant of your belongings and awareness of your night out.
Nighttime Photography
At night, Paris is a city of lights, and the city provides a great opportunity to get some amazing pictures.
Every hour on the hour after sunset the Eiffel Tower sparkles, creating an Instagrammable moment.
The lit-up Seine River and the reflections of the city’s lights are great shots, too.
And be sure to go for the historic bridges and the monumental façades of buildings lining the banks.
Travel Safety for Women Solo Travelers
General Safety
To stay safe in Paris, it is about being weary and conscious.
Protect your belongings, particularly in crowded areas like the Metro and tourist sites.
Don’t flash valuables, and of course, keep your wallet and phone close.
Have emergency numbers and locations of nearby embassies or consulates.
Solo Travel Challenges
Traveling on your own can at times feel lonely, but there are ways to maintain connections.
Go on walking tours or cooking classes to connect with fellow travelers.
Stay in touch with friends and family by sharing on social media.
And if you ever feel lonely, keep in mind that all solo travelers go through this.
And use them as time to grow and reflect on who we are and want to be.
Budgeting Your Day in Paris
Cost Breakdown
A day in Paris need not cost an arm and a leg.
A simple café breakfast will set you back about €10-15, while lunch at a bistro may run you €20-30, and a nice dinner €30-50.
Museum entry usually costs around €12-20.
Public transport is cheap, a Metro ticket is €1.90 per journey.
Free and Low-Cost Activities
Paris has a wealth of free and low-cost activities.
On the first Sunday of each month many museums are free.
Always free to visit are parks and gardens.
There’s no cost to wander along the Seine or to explore the delightful neighborhoods of Le Marais and Montmartre.
Search for local events or fests that may be taking place during your visit for more cost-effective entertainment.
Conclusion, A Day in Paris
Looking back on a day in Paris, it’s no wonder this city has so much to explore and adventure to seek.
Whether it’s an iconic landmark or a hidden gem, there’s always something new to experience.
Enjoy the process, embrace every moment, and let Paris imprint itself in your heart.
Hope this gives some tips on how to do solo adventure in Paris.
