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How I Spent 4 Days in Paris: Travel Itinerary and Tips for First Time Visitors

August 3rd, 2025 | By Stella Che

Paris has always been one of those places I’ve wanted to see. I’d seen it in movies and photos with charming streets, cozy cafes, beautiful old buildings, and I couldn’t wait to experience it for myself. This spring, I finally had the chance to visit for the first time with my partner, and it was even better than I imagined.

 

We had just four days in Paris, so I wanted to make the most of every moment. Of course, I wanted to see all the famous landmarks, but I didn’t want to feel rushed or overwhelmed. To keep things easy and enjoyable, I planned each day by grouping places that were close to each other. I also started my mornings early and booked tickets ahead of time to avoid long lines. This gave me more time to walk around, enjoy the views, stop for a quick coffee, and really soak in the atmosphere. In the end, it was four wonderful days of exploring, eating well, and experiencing the magic of Paris at a nice, relaxed pace.

 

In this post, I’ll share what we did each day, including places to visit, photo spots, and simple tips that helped us enjoy the trip even more. We got around using public transportation and walking, so everything here is easy to follow without needing a car.

 

If you’re visiting Paris for the first time, or just looking for an easy and enjoyable itinerary, I hope this guide helps. Paris really is a city that stays with you, and I’m excited to show you how to spent our four days there.

 

I also have a video guide showcasing Paris. If you want to take a closer look at each location, feel free to check it out!

 

Table of Contents

When to Visit Paris

How to Get Around Paris
Quick Overview of the 4 Day Itinerary
Day by Day Itinerary

Day 1
Day 2
Day 3

Day 4
Where to Stay

Tips to Make Your Visit Easier

Travel Resources for This Trip

More Travel Inspiration

When to Visit Paris?

Paris is beautiful all year, but some seasons make it feel extra special. I visited in the spring, and honestly, it was the perfect time.

 

Summer is hot and full of life, but it can get really busy and a bit more expensive.

 

Fall is also a nice time, less hot and fewer crowds. Winter has its own charm with holiday lights, but it’s colder and the days are shorter.

 

If you’re planning your first trip and want to enjoy both the city and the outdoors, spring is a wonderful choice.

How to Get Around in Paris?

Getting around Paris was easier than I expected. We walked a lot during our trip, and it’s actually one of the best ways to see the city. Paris is full of small, beautiful streets and little corners you can only find when you’re on foot.

 

For longer distances, we used the Paris Métro. It’s fast, simple, and goes almost everywhere. I got a Navigo card, which was very handy. It works on the metro, buses, RER trains, and trams. Since we were only in Paris for a few days, we loaded it with tickets and just tapped to ride, instead of buying single tickets each time.

 

You can also load it with a day pass if you plan to take multiple rides in one day. For more info, check out the RATP website.

 

One app that we found really useful during our trip was Bonjour RATP. It’s the official public transport app for Paris and the Île-de-France region. You can use it to plan your journey, check live metro and bus times, see real  time maps, and on some phones, even buy and store your tickets.

 

If you’re using public transport in Paris, this app really makes things easier. You can find more info by searching for Bonjour RATP in your app store.

 

When we visited Versailles, which is outside the city, we took the RER train. It was easy to use with help from Google Maps. we didn’t use any taxis or ride share apps because the metro and walking were more than enough.

 

If it’s your first time in Paris, the metro signs are clear, and most stations have maps to guide you.

Quick Overview of the 4 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Monument à la République, Canal Saint-Martin, Montmartre, Sacré-Cœur

Day 2: Eiffel Tower, Saint-Germain-des-pres, Sainte-Chapelle, Notre Dame Cathedral, Luxembourg Garden

Day 3: Versaille Palace, Arc de Triomphe

Day 4: Hôtel de Ville, Le Marais, Place des Vosges, Galeries Lafayette Haussmann, Palais Garnier, Palais-Royal, Louvre

Day by Day Itinerary

Day 1

We landed in Paris in the morning and checked into our hotel in the 11th arrondissement, a more local, less touristy part of Paris. It’s the kind of neighborhood where you can actually hear French being spoken all around you. It’s also super walkable which I loved. Since we were feeling a bit tired from the flight, we kept our first day light and easy.

 

We started with lunch at Bouillon République, a classic Parisian restaurant with delicious, comforting food at great prices.

 

Just a few minutes away is Place de la République, it’s a beautiful square and one of those places where you can just sit for a while and watch the city go by.

 

After that, we wandered along Canal Saint-Martin. This area has such a laid-back vibe lined with leafy trees, charming bridges, and little spots where people sit by the water with a book or a drink. I didn’t rush, just walked slowly, soaking up the peaceful vibe. It was the perfect way to ease into the city.

 

In the evening, we made our way to Montmartre, and wow, it felt like stepping into a charming neighborhood with small streets, local artists painting outside, and cozy cafes. 

 

Instead of walking straight to the Sacré-Cœur, we started our walk from Rue des Martyrs. This path took us to a beautiful old church called Église Saint-Jean de Montmartre, a beautiful old church tucked away from the crowds.

 

Just a few minutes from there, we came across a sweet little square with the famous “I Love You Wall”, a mural where “I love you” is written over 300 times in more than 250 languages. It was such a masterpieces art.

 

We made it up to the Basilique du Sacré-Cœur de Montmartre just in time for golden hour. The view from the top was breathtaking. Watching the city glow in that soft evening light made the climb totally worth it. The white domes of the basilica looked even more beautiful as the sun began to set. 

 

 

Right Behind the Basilica, I discovered this peaceful little park, Parc Marcel Bleustein Blanchet (also known as Parc de la Turlure). It’s quiet, green, and just far enough from the crowds to feel like your own little escape. I found it perfect for a break or some peaceful, crowd free photos.

 

 

From there, we kept exploring Montmartre’s backstreets and stumbled upon La Maison Rose, the adorable pink cafe you’ve probably seen on Instagram. 

 

Just nearby is Rue de l’Abreuvoir, one of the prettiest cobblestone streets in Paris, with an incredible view of the Sacré-Cœur in the background. If you’re hoping for that dreamy photo with no one in sight, come early in the morning before 8 a.m. if you can. It’s so worth it.

 

We ended our day with some sweet treats from a local bakery, Artisan Boulanger Pâtissier. It was the perfect way to wrap up our first day in Paris.

   Travel Tips:

  • Bouillon République is a very popular spot. If you want to avoid a long wait, it’s best to go after the lunch rush. The food is delicious and comforting, It is definitely worth the visit.

  • To really enjoy Canal Saint-Martin, I recommend having a little picnic by the water. It’s such a peaceful place, and sitting there with some snacks makes you feel like a local Parisian enjoying a slow afternoon.

  • Watching the sunset from Sacré-Cœur is beautiful, but it can get very crowded. If you want a quieter and more peaceful experience, try going early in the morning. You’ll have the view mostly to yourself, and it’s a lovely way to start your day in Paris.

  • Pickpockets and scams are quite common around Sacré Cœur, especially near the steps and busy areas. One thing to watch out for is the “Friendship Bracelet” scam. Someone might walk up and try to tie a bracelet on your wrist, then ask you to pay for it. To avoid this, it’s best to politely say no to any unexpected offers and keep a bit of distance. Do not let anyone touch your wrist. If they do try to tie something on, calmly take it off and walk away. 

Day 2

I started my morning early, just after 7 a.m. at Place du Trocadéro, one of the most iconic spots to see the Eiffel Tower. The view is wide and open, and as the Tower rises in front of you, it almost doesn’t feel real.

 

At that hour, it was quiet. No crowds. Just a soft morning breeze, birds chirping, and the golden morning light. I ended up spending nearly two hours here, simply wandering around, soaking it in, and taking photos while Paris slowly woke up.

 

By the time I left around 9 a.m., the crowds had already started to roll in. so yes, early is 100% worth it if you want that peaceful moment (and clean shots).

 

 

Just a short walk away is Avenue de Camoens. This quiet street is a little hidden gem, and right at the end, the Eiffel Tower appears, perfectly framed between two classic Parisian buildings. A must if you love finding photo spots that are a bit off the radar.

 

From there, I made my way to Pont de Bir-Hakeim, you’ve probably seen it in movies. This double-decker bridge has a super cool structure and gives you a completely different view of the Eiffel Tower, with the Seine river flowing below. The mix of steel and stone, river and sky, it’s such a photogenic spot, and also just a really peaceful place to pause.

 

 

As I kept walking along the Seine and crossed over Pont de l’Alma for yet another beautiful angle of the Tower. If you’re like me and enjoy chasing viewpoints, each of these spots offers something unique. Honestly, I never got tired of seeing the Eiffel Tower from every possible direction.

 

After that lovely morning, I was more than ready for lunch. We made our way to a cozy traditional French bistro near Saint-Germain-des-Prés called Chez Fernand Christine. We started with a classic French appetizer, it was delicious. But the real star was the beef bourguignon. Melt-in-your-mouth tender, rich, and full of flavor. If you’re looking for an authentic and hearty French meal, I can’t recommend it enough.

 

And if bistros aren’t quite your thing, this neighborhood offers a mix of different cuisines, from casual cafes to elegant restaurants.

 

With a very happy stomach, we wandered over to one of the Paris’s largest and most beautiful churches, Église Saint-Sulpice. As soon as I stepped inside, it felt both grand and gentle. The warm lighting and soft colors created such a calm and welcoming space.

 

The enormous pipe organ immediately caught my attention, it’s massive. I later found out it’s actually one of the most famous pipe organs in the world. If you’re nearby, this is such a peaceful spot to step into, even for just a quiet moment during your day.

 

After a 15 minute walk, we arrived at Sainte-Chapelle, one of the biggest surprises of our trip. It’s not the largest or most famous church in Paris, but it just might be the most beautiful. The upper level is surrounded by 15 enormous stained-glass windows, each about 15 meters tall. Altogether, they tell over 1,100 scenes from the Bible.

 

 

When the sun shines through, the entire chapel glows with vivid blues, reds, and purples, it feels like stepping inside a kaleidoscope. If you love art, history, or just want that jaw-dropping “wow” moment, Sainte-Chapelle is a must see.

  

Notre-Dame was definitely on our list, and while we didn’t make it inside this time due to the long line, it was still so special to stand outside and admire it up close. If you’re hoping to visit the interior, I recommend arriving right when it opens, that’s your best chance at beating the crowd.

 

After a full day of exploring, we decided to slow down at one of the most peaceful corners of Paris, Jardin du Luxembourg. This garden is so calm and beautiful with bright flowerbeds, shaded tree-lined paths, and a central pond with a fountain that adds to its charm.

 

There are plenty of benches and classic green chairs scattered around, so it’s easy to find a spot to just sit, relax, and watch the world go by. I’d say it’s the perfect place to slow down and soak in the quieter side of Paris.

 

   Travel Tips:

  • If you’re planning to visit the famous Place du Trocadéro for that perfect Eiffel Tower photo, I recommend going very early in the morning around 6 or 7 a.m. That’s when it’s quiet and you’ll have a much better chance of getting a clean, peaceful shot with the tower in the background.

  • There are also many great places to photograph the Eiffel Tower between the 7th and 15th arrondissements. Some lovely spots include Carrousel de Paris, Pont d’Iéna, L’Hôpital des Invalides, Rue de l’Université, Avenue Rapp, and Rue de Buenos Ayres. Each location offers a different view and atmosphere, so it is worth exploring a few.

  • If you’re visiting at night, the Eiffel Tower lights up after sunset and sparkles every half hour. It’s a completely different vibe to see.

  • For Chez Fernand Christine, be sure to make a reservation in advance. It’s a popular place and tends to fill up quickly.

  • When visiting Sainte-Chapelle, I highly recommend booking your ticket online with a timed entry. Arrive a little early and you’ll skip the long lines and move through security more easily.

  • Notre-Dame is one of the most visited spots in Paris, so naturally, it can attract pickpockets, especially on the nearby bridges and in front of the cathedral. Just stay aware and keep your belongings safe.

Day 3

One thing I was really excited about on this trip was visiting the Château de Versailles, and it definitely didn’t disappoint.

 

To make the visit smooth and stress-free, we booked our tickets online in advance and headed out early. Since Versailles is located outside Paris, we caught the RER train in the morning and arrived around 9:30 AM. Even with an early start, there was already a line, so arriving early is definitely worth it.

 

I highly recommend downloading the Versailles app, it’s super helpful, especially the self-guided tour feature. It helped me understand so much more about what I was seeing.

 

 

The Palace of Versailles is one of the most iconic and grand landmarks in France. It was a symbol of royal power under Louis XIV, and stayed the royal residence until the French Revolution in 1789.

 

Versailles is more than just huge, it’s a spectacular display of French Baroque art. Every hallway, every ceiling, every corner feels like a piece of art. One of my favorite moments was stepping into the Hall of Mirrors. It’s lined with huge arched mirrors, sparkling chandeliers, and sunlight pouring in from the windows. It really feels like stepping into a painting. 

 

I also loved visiting the King’s and Queen’s Apartments, they are full of rich colors, tapestries, and antique furniture, and also the stunning Royal Chapel.

 

But Versailles isn’t just about the palace. The gardens are massive. It’s about 800 hectares, which is over 1,500 football fields! They’re filled with more than 50 fountains, the long and beautiful Grand Canal, tree-lined promenades, and hidden spots that invite you to explore.


Because it’s so big, I’d recommend renting a bike or golf cart, or taking the little train. It saves time and lets you explore more without getting too tired. 

 

If you’re planning to visit the Trianon estates and the Queen’s Hamlet like we did, the little train is a really helpful option. It takes you there without the long walk through the gardens and is also a nice way to get back to the palace without your feet getting sore. For more details, you can check the Versailles Palace website.  

 

One of my favorite spots was the Queen’s Hamlet. It’s a quiet little village Marie Antoinette had built as her peaceful retreat. With thatched-roof cottages, a lake, and even a tiny farm, it feels like a peaceful countryside tucked behind all the palace grandeur. It was such a relaxing and lovely surprise.

  

Before wrapping up our day, we made a stop at one of Paris’s most iconic landmarks, the Arc de Triomphe. 

 

Built to honor the French army and their victories, the monument is not only massive, but also filled with detail. Every carving on its surface tells a story of courage, history, and national pride. It felt like walking through a history book made of stone.

 

If you have the time (and energy!), you can also climb to the top for a great view of Paris. We didn’t do it this time (our legs were too tired!), but it’s something I’d love to do next time. 

   Travel Tips:

  • If you’re visiting the Palace of Versailles, I’d suggest wearing comfortable shoes. As you’ll be walking a lot, especially in the gardens. 

  • There are cafes inside the Palace, but lines can get long and prices are a bit high, so bringing a water bottle and a few light snacks is a good idea if you plan to stay for a while.

  • Keep in mind that the Palace is closed on Mondays, although the gardens and park are still open and free to visit.

  • To get to the Arc de Triomphe safely, don’t try to cross the busy roundabout above ground. Instead, use the underground pedestrian tunnel at Place Charles de Gaulle, it’s much safer and easy to find.

  • To skip the ticket line, it’s best to book your ticket online in advance through the Arc de Triomphe’s official website. If you’re visiting on a Wednesday between April and September, admission is a little cheaper than on other days.

  • If you’re hoping to catch the sunset view from the top in summer, aim to arrive at least 45 minutes before closing so you have time to get up and enjoy it without feeling rushed.

Day 4

Our day started at Hôtel de Ville, Paris’s beautiful city hall. It’s so beautiful with tall towers, statues, and lots of details on the building that make you want to stop and look. It’s also a lovely photo spot and a great way to start a day of exploring.

 

What I really liked about this spot is how easy it is to get around. In just a few minutes, you can walk along the Seine River, visit famous places like Notre-Dame or Sainte-Chapelle, or explore Le Marais which is one of Paris’s most lively and historic areas.

 

Le Marais is a neighborhood where old and new come together beautifully. You’ll find cobblestone streets and medieval buildings alongside stylish shops and cute little cafes. It’s a lovely place to slow down, explore at your own pace, and take in the local atmosphere. Every corner feels like a small discovery.

 

We took a slow walk through the area and found a cozy spot for lunch at Le Bistrot de la Place. It’s a lovely little restaurant with floral decor and warm, welcoming vibes. The food was delicious and looked just as good as it tasted. If you’re nearby, I’d definitely recommend stopping by.

 

Just around the corner is Place des Vosges. It is one of the prettiest squares I’ve ever seen. It’s also one of the oldest in Paris. The square is perfectly symmetrical, with elegant red-brick buildings surrounding a peaceful green space in the center. Neatly trimmed trees, soft grass, small fountains, and classic Paris benches make it a perfect place to relax and enjoy the moment.

 

Not far from there, I found something that I didn’t expect, two old medieval, half-timbered houses tucked away on a quiet street. These are some of the last remaining medieval homes in Paris. Seeing them felt like stepping back in time and getting a small glimpse of what the city looked like centuries ago.

  

Then, we made our way to Galeries Lafayette. we weren’t there to shop, we came for the view! Inside, the stained-glass dome is absolutely stunning, and if you take the escalator up, you’ll find a free rooftop terrace with one of the best panoramic views of Paris. Even if you’re not into shopping, it’s worth a visit just for this.

 

Right next door is the gorgeous Palais Garnier, home to the Paris Opera. I couldn’t get tickets this time, but even seeing it from the outside was a treat. It’s so rich in detail and history. If you want to go inside, I’d recommend booking a couple of weeks ahead, it’s a popular one.

 

A short walk away is the Palais Royal, one of those places that feels like an escape from the city’s hustle. In the courtyard, you’ll find the black and white striped columns known as Les Colonnes de Buren. They’re playful and modern, and they stand out beautifully against the classic buildings around them. It’s also a great place to take fun and creative photos.

 

No trip to Paris is complete without stopping by the Louvre. Even if you don’t go inside, just being in the courtyard at sunset is really special. The glass pyramid lights up as the sun goes down, and the sky slowly turns a deep blue. It’s quiet, beautiful, and one of those moments that stays with you.

 

If you’re planning to go inside, give yourself lots of time because the Louvre is the largest art museum in the world, and there’s so much to see. 

 

We ended our day with one of the most classic French treats, crepes at Armelle Crêperie. They were so delicious! It was the perfect way to enjoy a cozy, local food experience in Paris. If you’re craving something sweet or savory, this spot is a lovely place to try.

   Travel Tips:

  • Hôtel de Ville is very close to both Notre-Dame and Sainte-Chapelle, so it’s a good idea to visit them together to make the most of your time.

  • Place des Vosges is open to the public every day and is perfect for a peaceful, budget-friendly stop during your walk through Paris.

  • The Louvre is closed on Tuesdays, so be sure to plan your visit around that.

  • To skip the long lines at the Louvre, make sure to book your tickets at least 1 to 2 weeks in advance, especially during busy seasons.

Where to Stay?

We stayed at Hôtel Verlain, a budget-friendly hotel located in a pleasant and safe neighborhood, the 11th arrondissement of Paris. It’s a more local, residential area with plenty of cafes and restaurants nearby. Since it’s not overly touristy, you’ll hear lots of French spoken around, which gives it a more authentic feel.

 

The hotel is also very convenient, just a 5-minute walk to the metro, making it easy to reach the main tourist spots around the city.

 

Our room was clean, simple, and modern. Like many Paris hotels, the room was compact but still comfortable and functional. One thing to note is the elevator is very small, it barely fits two people, a suitcase, and a small carry-on.

 

Overall, it’s a great place to stay if you’re looking for good value, a comfortable room, and a local vibe in a well-connected area. I’d definitely recommend it! 

Tips to Make Your Visit Easier

Learn a Few Basic French Phrases:

In Paris, many people speak some English, but French is the main language. Learning just a few simple words can really make a difference and show respect to the locals: 

  • Bonjour – Hello

  • Merci – Thank you

  • S’il vous plaît – Please

  • Excusez-moi – Excuse me

  • Parlez-vous anglais ? – Do you speak English?

Remember always say “Bonjour” when you enter a shop, cafe, or restaurant. It’s a small gesture, but it’s an important part of French manners and people really appreciate it. Even a few words in French can go a long way and help create a more friendly experience during your trip.

 

Get a Travel-Friendly Bank Card:

It’s always smart to bring some cash when visiting another country, but Paris is very card-friendly. We used a debit card with no foreign transaction fees (like Wise), and it worked great. It charges you at the real exchange rate without any extra fees.

 

We were able to use the card almost everywhere. Just remember to always choose to pay in euros (not your home currency) for the best exchange rate.

 

You can also link your Wise card to Apple Pay or Google Pay, so you don’t need to pull out your card every time. Still, it’s a good idea to carry a bit of cash, just in case, especially for small shops or older cafes that may not take cards.

 

Download Helpful Apps:

Having a couple good apps on your phone can make your trip much smoother and less stressful. These are the ones we used the most while exploring Paris: 

 

Bonjour RATP – Public Transport App

This app is super helpful for getting around by Métro, bus, tram, or RER. It tells you exactly which line to take, which direction, and where to transfer, great if you’re new to the Paris transit system.

 

You can also link your Navigo pass to the app, but I wouldn’t recommend it. We found it a bit tricky, you have to scan to reload or check the balance, and sometimes it didn’t work properly. That said, the trip planning feature is excellent. 

 

Google Maps

This was our go-to for finding restaurants, cafés, museums, and anywhere we wanted to go. We also downloaded offline maps of Paris, which came in handy when we didn’t have Wi-Fi or data.

 

Google Maps also helped us check opening hours, read reviews, and even book restaurants directly through the app. Super convenient!

 

Stay Connected with an eSIM:

Traveling without mobile data can be inconvenient, especially when you need maps, translations, or to check opening hours on the go. We looked into a few eSIM providers (like Airalo and GigSky), which are great because no physical SIM card is needed.

 

We ended up choosing GigSky, as it was more affordable than Airalo at the time. It was super easy to set up using the app, and it worked perfectly throughout our trip with no issues.

 

For more details or current prices, you can check out the GigSky app or website before your trip.

 

Book all the Major Attractions in Advance:
Paris is a very popular destination, many famous sites get crowded fast, especially in spring, summer, and on weekends. One of the best ways to save time and avoid long lines is to book your tickets in advance. It also helps you choose your preferred entry time and plan your day better.

 

During our trip, we booked most of the attractions ahead of time, but there were a few we missed out on because we left it too late. I’d recommend booking at least one to two weeks before your visit, especially for popular places like the Louvre, Sainte-Chapelle, or the Palace of Versailles.

 

Also, keep in mind that many museums and attractions are closed on Mondays or Tuesdays, so be sure to double-check opening days when planning your itinerary. A little planning goes a long way in Paris!

 

Pack Comfortable Shoes:
Paris is a great city for walking, with lots of charming cobblestone streets, hidden corners, and beautiful views along the way. Many attractions are close to each other, so walking is often faster and more enjoyable than taking the Metro, especially in areas like Montmartre or around the Seine.

 

That said, you’ll likely walk a lot during your trip, easily between 10,000 and 20,000 steps a day. So comfortable shoes are a must. I brought a couple of pairs to switch between, which really helped give my feet a break. So planning your footwear before your trip can make a big difference in how much you enjoy your days in Paris.

 

Watch Out for Pickpockets and Scams:
Pickpockets are quite common in busy tourist spots in Paris, so it’s good to stay a little extra careful while enjoying the city. What helped me the most was using a small crossbody bag with a zipper and wearing it in front of me. I kept my phone, wallet, and other important things there, while putting less valuable items in my backpack. This simple setup made me feel safer and let me enjoy my time without worry.

 

Here are a few easy tips to keep in mind:

  • Choose a bag that zips and wear it across your body, right in front

  • Keep your valuables in front pockets or deep inside your bag

  • Stay aware, especially in crowded places like popular landmarks and metro stations

One scam to watch out for is the “Friendship Bracelet” near Sacré-Cœur. Someone might suddenly grab your wrist and tie a bracelet, then ask for money in a pushy way. The best way to handle this is to keep your hands in your pockets, say “Non merci” kindly but firmly, and don’t let anyone touch your wrist. Just walk away if this happens.

 

There are other scams too, so it’s helpful to stay alert whenever someone approaches you out of the blue or tries to distract you. It’s all about being aware, not worried, so you can enjoy exploring Paris safely and peacefully.

 

Some Public Toilets Are Free, Some Are Not:
In Paris, public bathrooms can be a bit of a mix, some are free and self-cleaning, while others charge a small fee depending on where you are.

 

The free ones are usually modern, grey, pod-like toilets you’ll see on sidewalks or near parks. They might look confusing at first (they did for me too!). Just wait until the green light is on before you go in, that means it’s ready. After you’re done, simply leave the toilet , and it will automatically lock and clean itself before the next person uses it. Super helpful when you’re out and don’t want to spend money just to use the bathroom.

 

Near popular tourist spots, you’ll also find paid restrooms that usually charge between €0.50 and €1.00, and most only accept coins. So it’s always a good idea to carry a few coins with you, just in case.

 

And if you’re really in need, another option is to stop into a cafe and buy a small drink, that way, you can use their restroom and take a little break at the same time.

 

Dining like a local:
If you’re traveling on a budget, eating out in Paris can get expensive, but there are some great ways to save money and still enjoy delicious food.

 

One of my favorite tips is to look for lunch menus called menu déjeuner or formule. These are set-price meals offered at many restaurants between 12:00 PM and 2:00 PM, usually on weekdays. The exact hours can vary by place, but most spots follow a similar schedule.

 

A formule lets you choose from a few options, like:

  • starter + main

  • main + dessert

  • all three courses

It’s often much cheaper than ordering everything from the regular menu. A great way to try French food without spending too much!

 

Another small but helpful tip, ask for tap water (une carafe d’eau) instead of bottled water. Tap water is free and totally safe to drink.

 

Keep in mind that many traditional French restaurants close between lunch and dinner, so you won’t always find hot food mid-afternoon. 

 

Also, some restaurants are closed on Sundays or Mondays, so it’s a good idea to check their hours ahead of time.

 

And about tipping, service is already included in your bill. People in France usually don’t tip like in North America. If you feel the service was really good, you can leave a euro or two, or just round up the bill, but it’s not expected.

 

With a little planning, you can enjoy amazing meals in Paris without overspending.

Travel Resources for This Trip

Here are some of the travel resources we used during our trip to Paris. They made everything from planning to getting around much easier and more enjoyable:

 

Google Maps – Great for finding walking routes, metro connections, and nearby places to eat or visit. I used it every day.

 

Bonjour RATP App – The official app for Paris public transport. It helped me check real-time metro and bus schedules and plan my routes.

 

Navigo Easy Card – I used this card for metro, bus, and RER rides. It’s simple to reload 

and saves you from buying single tickets.

 

Trip.com – I used it to book my hotel in the 11th arrondissement.

 

Versailles App – Perfect for a self-guided tour of the Palace of Versailles. It gives helpful info and audio as you explore.

 

Google Translate – Super helpful when reading menus or small signs, especially in less touristy areas.

 

GigSky eSIM – A more affordable option for mobile data. Easy to set up and worked smoothly during the trip.

 

Wise Card – This was great for spending in euros, no foreign transaction fees, good exchange rates, and easy to manage from the app.

 

If you’re planning a trip to Paris, I’d definitely recommend checking out a few of these tools, they made my travel experience a lot smoother!

 
 

Just so you know!

Some of the links in this blog post are affiliate links. That means if you click through and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you! 

 

I only recommend things I genuinely use or believe could be helpful for your trip. It’s a simple way to support my work while discovering useful tools and resources. Thanks so much for your support, it really means a lot! 

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About the author - Stella

Hi, I’m a travel photographer from Vancouver, Canada. Here, you’ll find my travel experiences, offer helpful guides and tips, reveal photogenic locations, and showcase stunning images and videos captured through my lens from around the world. Hopefully, my passion for travel and photography inspires like-minded people.

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