Planning a trip to Paris can feel overwhelming, but with my insider tips, you’ll navigate the City of Light like a true Parisian. Here's what you really need to know:

1. Learn Basic French Phrases:

Start every interaction with “Bonjour!” (hello/hi)—it's non-negotiable. A simple greeting and “Excusez-moi, parlez-vous anglais?” (Excuse me, do you speak English) will earn you smiles instead of eye rolls. Want to go deeper? My beginner resource, Le Bouquin, includes all the need-to-know phrases for restaurants, shopping, and navigating the city.

2. Eat Like a Local:

Forget the overpriced spots near major landmarks, anywhere with hawkers outside, or menus in five languages. Look for small bistros with handwritten “plat du jour” (daily special) and “fait maison” (made in-house) signs for a fresh, reasonably priced meal prepared from scratch. Make reservations for dinner, and remember: the waiter won’t bring your check until you ask for “l'addition, s’il vous plaît" (the check, please). Of course my top recommendation is my dad’s restaurant in Le Marais: Le Colimaçon (when reserving, mention you’re part of the HF community)!

3. Time Your Visits Strategically:

Beat the crowds by visiting the Louvre before lunchtime or catching sunrise at the Eiffel Tower. Avoid the métro during rush hour (8–10 am and 5–7 pm), and be aware that many shops close le dimanche (Sunday). Is seeing the Mona Lisa on your bucket list? Head straight there when the Louvre opens.

4. Explore Beyond the Landmarks:

The iconic sites like Versailles, the Champs-Élysées, and Musée d'Orsay are must-sees for good reason. But when you’re ready to venture beyond the classics, consider wandering to Fontainebleau for peaceful palace grounds, exploring the hip Canal Saint-Martin neighborhood where locals linger at cafés, or discovering the intimate sculpture gardens of the Musée Rodin. My Hello Paris guide includes many more hidden gems where actual parisien.nes spend their time.

5. Embrace Local Transport:

Get a Navigo Easy pass for the métro. It's cheaper than single tickets. Download Citymapper for real-time navigation, and never stand on the left side of métro escalators (unless you enjoy angry Parisian glares). But remember: the ultimate way to explore Paris is on foot, and, if you’re comfortable with city cycling, by bike. 

6. Live Like a Local:

Start your day at a neighborhood boulangerie (bakery) for fresh croissants. Join the Parisian tradition of apéro (pre-dinner drinks and small bites) at a wine bar. Pack a picnic of vin, fromages et baguettes for the Jardin du Luxembourg. Browse the book stalls along the Seine. Take your time; rushing isn’t très French. 

7. Stay Safe and Savvy:

Beware of common scams and never engage with strangers trying to distract you: the “found” gold ring, petition collectors (actually pickpockets), unofficial metro ticket sellers, and overpriced taxis (use Uber, the G7 app, or take a licensed taxi from a stand). Keep your bag zipped and crossbody—j’adore the bags from Rivedroite.

8. Pack Smart:

Bring comfortable walking shoes (your feet will thank you), a light jacket (Paris evenings can be chilly, even in summer), and neutral-colored clothing (flashy outfits scream touristes). Leave your massive backpack at home, as many museums won’t allow them. Not sure what to bring? Check out my curated packing lists by season to make sure you’re stylish, comfy, and prepared—no matter when you visit.

9. Market Like a Pro:

Step into authentic Parisian life at the city's vibrant marchés. The bustling Marché Bastille and historic Marché d'Aligre offer a feast for the senses: fresh-picked produce, artisanal fromages, and local specialties at non-tourist prices. Want to take your market experience further? Book a combined market visit and cooking class with La Cuisine, where you'll learn to shop like a local and transform your finds into a memorable French meal.

10. Find the Best Photo Spots:

Skip the crowded (and expensive) Eiffel Tower observation deck. Instead, head to Printemps' rooftop for free, breathtaking views of the city skyline. Catch the sunset from Sacré-Cœur in Montmartre, or discover a local favorite at the Parc de Belleville. For elegant architecture shots, the Galeries Lafayette rooftop offers picture-perfect views without the crowds.

Want the ultimate Paris starter kit?

If you’re dreaming of Paris and want everything you need to feel confident exploring the city like a local, check out my Beginner Bundle or Paris Guide. Both are perfect on their own or even better together.

The Beginner Bundle includes Le Bouquin and Le Cahier. You’ll get all the essentials and practice you need to start speaking French with confidence, whether you’re ordering a croissant or asking for directions.

The Hello Paris Guide is your curated cheat sheet to the city. Think speakeasies, bakeries, spas, and more, plus a pinned Google Map so you can spend less time planning and more time enjoying.

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Remember: the best Paris experiences often happen when you step off the tourist track, slow down, and embrace la vie parisienne. 

Bon voyage ! 

—Cécilia & the Hello French team