can you travel to paris at 17

• Paris Tourism
• Paris Hotels
• Paris Bed and Breakfast
• Paris Vacation Rentals
• Flights to Paris
• Paris Restaurants
• Things to Do in Paris
• Paris Travel Forum
• Paris Photos
• All Paris Hotels
• Paris Hotel Deals
• Last Minute Hotels in Paris
• Things to Do
• Restaurants
• Vacation Rentals
• Travel Stories
• Rental Cars
• Add a Place
• Travel Forum
• Travelers' Choice
• Help Center

Can I travel to Paris alone at 17?! - Paris Forum

• Europe    
• France    
• Ile-de-France    
• Paris    

Can I travel to Paris alone at 17?!

• United States Forums
• Europe Forums
• Canada Forums
• Asia Forums
• Central America Forums
• Africa Forums
• Caribbean Forums
• Mexico Forums
• South Pacific Forums
• South America Forums
• Middle East Forums
• Honeymoons and Romance
• Business Travel
• Train Travel
• Traveling With Disabilities
• Tripadvisor Support
• Solo Travel
• Bargain Travel
• Timeshares / Vacation Rentals
• Ile-de-France forums
• Paris forum

You will get conflicting opinions here.

I'd say the chance of being asked for such a document is less than 1% unless you look like you're 12 instead of 17.

One problem is accommodation. It is illegal for a French hotel to rent to someone under 18 unless it is booked and paid for by someone over 18.

Tripadvisor staff removed this post because it did not meet Tripadvisor's forum guideline limiting each user to a single forums screen name.

Surely they will see I’m 17 when they check my passport?

I think your best bet would be to get a letter notarized (or your country's equivalent) from your parents that you're authorized. People mention hotels etc won't rent to minors, your best bet will be to stay at hostels or other type accommodations where younger travellers frequent and you won't raise any suspicions.

Also, if you have a Uni card or student ID bring it with you. You will get lots of discounts on tickets and entrance fees.

My first trip to Paris at 17 was an awakening. It has fueled my love for travel my whole life. Best of luck to you.

Thank you !

We recently traeled with a 12 year old and had notarized letters from both parents giving permission as well as a medical permission. We were never asked once. But if we had been it might have made things difficut without it.

I would look up the wording for a consent from your parents or guardians to travel and type that up and have them sign it. The confidence you will have with it in your pocket will probably mean no one asks. I assume you have arranged a hotel by having them book it for you and pay. That is the one place most likely to be a problem.

I managed this 60 years ago at 16 -- but old anecdotes like this are useless. Everything is more computerized now and enforcement and rules change. Be prepared with the letter.

• How to buy Senior metro tickets 12:55 am
• Accommodation with good access to train for CDG Airport 11:52 pm
• Need Opinion on B-day trip 11:25 pm
• Pompidou Center Admission 10:12 pm
• Roland Garros Hospitality dress code 9:33 pm
• 2 nights in Paris 7:53 pm
• Where to stay for a party of 3 6:06 pm
• River cruise and restaurant recs appreciated 4:59 pm
• Smoking Cigars in Paris 1:08 pm
• Planning assistance, s’ il vous plaît yesterday
• CDG Airport to Hotel yesterday
• Musee d'Orsay-- buying membership on arrival or online? yesterday
• Paris Rambling yesterday
• The Bouillon Restaurants yesterday
• What is the best area to stay in paris?!! 451 replies
• Travelling Nice to Paris, TRAIN or FLY? 36 replies
• Buying Louis Vuitton..cheaper in Paris than USA? 33 replies
• Day trips from Paris by train 22 replies
• Paris to Venice via overnight Train 19 replies
• Is European Destinations.com a legit site to book from? 272 replies
• Itinerary for Paris in 3 days 14 replies
• Best Things to buy in Paris 19 replies
• best arrondissement to stay in 11 replies
• What to pack/wear for mid-October Weather 11 replies

Paris Hotels and Places to Stay

• 10 Steps for submitting great Forum questions
• Navigo cards, fares and everything about public transport
• Day Trips from Paris
• Paris with kids
• Important Links for Paris Visitors
• Safety in a Nutshell
• How do I take a bus in Paris?
• FAQ: What are the best books about Paris?
• FAQ: Where are the toilets? Où sont les toilettes?
• Taxis Parisiens
• Price hikes during the Olympic Games.
• Transportation during the Olympic Games

• Paris Tourism
• Paris Hotels
• Bed and Breakfast Paris
• Paris Holiday Rentals
• Flights to Paris
• Paris Restaurants
• Paris Attractions
• Paris Travel Forum
• Paris Photos
• All Paris Hotels
• Paris Hotel Deals
• Last Minute Hotels in Paris
• Things to Do
• Restaurants
• Holiday Rentals
• Travel Stories
• Add a Place
• Travel Forum
• Travellers' Choice
• Help Centre

Can I travel to Paris alone at 17?! - Paris Forum

• Europe    
• France    
• Ile-de-France    
• Paris    

Can I travel to Paris alone at 17?!

• United Kingdom Forums
• United States Forums
• Europe Forums
• Canada Forums
• Asia Forums
• Central America Forums
• Africa Forums
• Caribbean Forums
• Mexico Forums
• South Pacific Forums
• South America Forums
• Middle East Forums
• Honeymoons and Romance
• Business Travel
• Train Travel
• Traveling With Disabilities
• Tripadvisor Support
• Solo Travel
• Bargain Travel
• Timeshares / Holiday Rentals
• Ile-de-France forums
• Paris forum

You will get conflicting opinions here.

I'd say the chance of being asked for such a document is less than 1% unless you look like you're 12 instead of 17.

One problem is accommodation. It is illegal for a French hotel to rent to someone under 18 unless it is booked and paid for by someone over 18.

Tripadvisor staff removed this post because it did not meet Tripadvisor's forum guideline limiting each user to a single forums screen name.

Surely they will see I’m 17 when they check my passport?

I think your best bet would be to get a letter notarized (or your country's equivalent) from your parents that you're authorized. People mention hotels etc won't rent to minors, your best bet will be to stay at hostels or other type accommodations where younger travellers frequent and you won't raise any suspicions.

Also, if you have a Uni card or student ID bring it with you. You will get lots of discounts on tickets and entrance fees.

My first trip to Paris at 17 was an awakening. It has fueled my love for travel my whole life. Best of luck to you.

Thank you !

We recently traeled with a 12 year old and had notarized letters from both parents giving permission as well as a medical permission. We were never asked once. But if we had been it might have made things difficut without it.

I would look up the wording for a consent from your parents or guardians to travel and type that up and have them sign it. The confidence you will have with it in your pocket will probably mean no one asks. I assume you have arranged a hotel by having them book it for you and pay. That is the one place most likely to be a problem.

I managed this 60 years ago at 16 -- but old anecdotes like this are useless. Everything is more computerized now and enforcement and rules change. Be prepared with the letter.

• How to buy Senior metro tickets 05:55
• Accommodation with good access to train for CDG Airport 04:52
• Need Opinion on B-day trip 04:25
• Pompidou Center Admission 03:12
• Roland Garros Hospitality dress code 02:33
• 2 nights in Paris 00:53
• Where to stay for a party of 3 23:06
• River cruise and restaurant recs appreciated 21:59
• Smoking Cigars in Paris 18:08
• Planning assistance, s’ il vous plaît yesterday
• CDG Airport to Hotel yesterday
• Musee d'Orsay-- buying membership on arrival or online? yesterday
• Paris Rambling yesterday
• The Bouillon Restaurants yesterday
• What is the best area to stay in paris?!! 451 replies
• Getting to Gare de Lyon from Gare Du Nord 10 replies
• How far is the eiffel tower to disneyland? 8 replies
• Travelling Nice to Paris, TRAIN or FLY? 36 replies
• Housetrip.com 63 replies
• gare du norde to disneyland paris 5 replies
• Passport control when taking Eurostar London to/from Paris? 266 replies
• New Year's Eve in Paris 2012/2013 42 replies
• New Year 2012 17 replies
• Paris Beauvais Airport - How easy is it to reach city center 10 replies

Paris Hotels and Places to Stay

• 10 Steps for submitting great Forum questions
• Navigo cards, fares and everything about public transport
• Day Trips from Paris
• Paris with kids
• Important Links for Paris Visitors
• Safety in a Nutshell
• How do I take a bus in Paris?
• FAQ: What are the best books about Paris?
• FAQ: Where are the toilets? Où sont les toilettes?
• Taxis Parisiens
• Price hikes during the Olympic Games.
• Transportation during the Olympic Games

Home > Paris Travel Tips > Paris Trip Planner: Step-by-Step Guide to Planning a Trip to Paris 2024

Paris Trip Planner: Step-by-Step Guide to Planning a Trip to Paris 2024

How to plan a trip to paris, france.

If you’re planning a trip to Paris in 2024, you will want to read this Paris Travel Planner . Paris for first-timers can be overwhelming; there are so many things to see and do! That’s why we want to help with our Paris Trip Planner .

This Paris Trip Planner covers everything you need to know to plan a trip to Paris, including the best time to visit Paris, where to stay, what to do, how to move around, and more.

Do you need help with your Paris trip planning? So let’s get started! Here’s how to plan a trip to Paris, France, you’ll never forget in easy steps that works for any kind of trip — no matter how long you’re going for! Just follow this step-by-step guide, and you’ll be off to Paris in no time!

Paris Travel Planner 2024 Content:

• Best Time to Visit Paris
• Booking your Flight or Train Ticket to Paris
• Travel Insurance
• Where to Stay in Paris
• Accommodation in Paris
• How to Get from Paris Airport to City
• The Cheat Sheet for Your Paris Trip Planner
• Paris Itinerary Planner
• What to Eat & Drink in Paris
• Day Trips from Paris
• Planning a Trip to Paris: Know Before You Go

There is no best way to plan a trip to Paris, France, but if you follow this step-by-step Paris Planner, you won’t forget the essentials.

GOOD TO KNOW: If you are planning a honeymoon to Paris or a family trip to Paris, you can complete the reading of this Paris Travel Planner with our specific guides:

• Paris honeymoon guide
• Quick guide to Paris for kids

1. Best Time to Visit Paris

When is the best time to travel to Paris? “ Paris is always a good idea , ” and there is never a bad time to travel to Paris. The city has beautiful parks and picturesque streets that are great to explore under the sun. It also has some of the world’s best museums and other interesting indoor options when it rains, or it’s too cold to be outside.

TIP: In general, the best time to go to Paris is from May to October, and then December for the Christmas Holidays .

If you are flexible with dates, important things to consider when you are planning a Paris trip are the low /high tourist seasons and the weather in Paris. This is what you need to know:

Seasons in Paris

What is the best season to visit Paris? This graphic below represents the weather in Paris year-round, with average temperatures (in Celsius) and average rainfall (%).

>>   Spring is a good time to visit Paris. Spring means blue skies, the gardens in Paris in bloom , and animated café-terraces. The city is also famous for its cherry blossoms (check out our favorite cherry blossom spots in Paris ), usually in March and April.

However, temperatures are still fresh (minimums of 4C° to 10C°), with frequent showers. Don’t forget to pack an umbrella and a jacket in your day bag!

Spring Months in Paris

>> Summer in Paris comes with longer days and nice temperatures (maximums of 23C° to 25C°). With a long list of local festivals and events and cool outdoor activities everywhere, no wonder Paris is one of the best summer destinations in Europe !

However, summer is also the high season in Paris, which means more tourists, long lines to visit the main attractions, and higher prices.

Summer Months in Paris

>> Fall is, in our opinion, the best season for a first time in Paris. The colors of the trees are gorgeous, temperatures are still pleasant (maximums of 11C° to 21C°), and there are fewer tourists. In the last couple of years, we could organize outdoor activities until mid-November, with bright and sunny days.

Fall Months in Paris

>> Winter in Paris is not the best time to visit Paris in terms of weather (minimums of 2C° to 7°C and only 4 to 5 hours of light), and sunset in Paris is very early. However, some people love to travel to Paris at Christmas time to see Paris’s decorations and illuminations and the best Christmas markets in Paris .

Paris is also a popular destination for Saint Valentine’s  in February. There are many romantic things to do in Paris !

Winter Months in Paris

Tourist Seasons in Paris

>>  The high season in Paris is considered from 1st April to 31st October. It means nice weather and more hours of daylight and many people will tell you this is the best time to visit Paris.

But at the same time, the high season in Paris is not the best season to plan a trip to Paris in terms of budget (best accommodation sold out, higher prices). Also, the city is too crowded with tourists – especially in the summer – while locals are somewhere else on holiday.

>> The low season in Paris goes from 1st November to 31st March, except for Paris at Christmas and New Year’s Eve in Paris . This is the cheapest time to travel to Paris and the best time to visit Paris to avoid crowds. If you decide to travel off-season, you will get a more local experience, and it will be easier to find good deals on accommodation, for example.

In the end, Paris is a movable feast and (sun or rain) you will have a great time!

Paris Olympics 2024

The Summer Olympics 2024 will be held in Paris and France from Friday, 26 July to Sunday, 11 August 2024 . This will be the biggest event ever organized in the country, so expect more visitors than usual (=book everything NOW!).

If you are planning a trip to Paris around these dates, check out our Paris Olympics 2024 Guide so you don’t miss anything on such a historical event.

Best Time to Visit Paris: Our Tips for your Paris Trip Planning

Be flexible with your dates. Flexibility is key, especially if you are planning a trip to Paris on a budget. Flight tickets or train tickets to Paris will be more expensive:

• During the school holidays in France ;
• During holidays in France or Europe;
• Weekend trips (Friday to Sunday);
• During special events like New Year’s Eve or Saint Valentine’s Day.

If you are a museum lover visiting Paris for the first time, the best time to go to Paris will probably be the first weekend of the month when you can visit many museums in Paris for free. Some of these museums have this offer all year round, while other museums are only free during the winter months.

2. Booking your Flight or Train Ticket to Paris

Flight Tickets to Paris

Paris has three airports: Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG) , north of Paris; Paris Orly (ORY) , south of Paris; and Paris-Beauvais (BVA) . Despite its name, Paris Beauvais is not in Paris but in the city of Beauvais (80 km north of Paris, in the Hauts-de-France region).

If you are traveling to Paris from somewhere overseas, you will probably land at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) . Paris Orly Airport (ORY) is used mainly for flights to /from Europe and North Africa, while Paris-Beauvais Airport (BVA) is mainly for Ryan Air flights.

Charles de Gaulle Airport and Orly Airport are more or less at the same distance from Paris, so if you are traveling from Europe, you can choose whatever flight (or flight company) you like. We don’t like Orly Airport (ORY) that much, so we always try to book flights from /to Paris Charles de Gaulle. But this is just our opinion.

Lately, we like to book our flights with Omio , a search engine for all major forms of transport that is very easy to use! It has different filters – time, number of scales, departure time – so the research and booking process is straightforward – Click here to buy your flight tickets to Paris with Omio

Train Tickets to Paris

If you live in Europe, high-speed trains are a good and definitely a more eco-friendly option for your trip to Paris. Here are some of the main European destinations served from the stations in Paris.

• Gare du Nord: London (Eurostar), Brussels, Cologne, and Amsterdam (Thalys)
• Gare de l’Est: Germany, and Luxembourg
• Gare de Lyon: Switzerland (Geneva, Zurich), Italy, and Catalunya (Girona, Barcelona)
• Gare d’Austerlitz: Western Spain.

We like and recommend Omio to book train tickets from /to Paris. The website is straightforward to use, it is written in English, and it proposes interesting promotions from time to time – Click here to buy your train tickets to Paris with Omio

Our readers from the UK and Australia, however, prefer  Trainline , probably because it has its headquarters in the UK. Trainline is also in English and works more or less like Omio.

So there’s the Omio team and the Trainline team, but you should always find the same information and ticket prices in both sites.

3. Don’t Skimp on Travel Insurance

Don’t skimp on Travel Insurance when you plan your trip to Paris 2024. Since anything can happen while traveling, the best thing you can do for yourself is to be insured.

Before going through other aspects of your Paris planning, ensure you are completely covered before traveling to minimize the financial risks of theft, loss of luggage, or flight cancellation.

SafetyWing has super affordable plans for budget travelers for long and short trips. While marketed as “Nomad Insurance,” you can get it for as little as five days. You can sign up for SafetyWing insurance even if your journey has already started! – Click here to get a quote for your next trip to Paris.

HeyMondo is another option for your Paris trip. It offers travelers insurance that combines medical and travel-related coverage for single trips (leisure and business trips), annual multi-trip, and extended stays (with COVID-19 coverage included). Use this link to get a 5% off .

You can also compare plans, prices, and coverage with Travel Insurance Master , a comparison site that will find the perfect fit for you amongst the world’s leading programs. Travel Insurance Master is also the best place to look for senior travelers .

Schengen Area Travel Insurance

For those who require a visa to enter France or any other Schengen country , travel insurance covering repatriation and medical expenses is compulsory. The necessary visa to enter Europe will not be issued unless you provide proof of suitable coverage – Buy your travel insurance with HeyMondo

4. Where to Stay in Paris

Planning a trip to Paris for the first time can be challenging, especially when it comes to deciding which area you want to stay in Paris.

Paris is divided into 20 arrondissements (=districts of Paris), which are also administrative divisions. In each Paris Arrondissement , there is a town hall (Mairie), a mayor and elected officials, a council, a politician, and so on. Of course, each division is still subject to the city’s overall policy and the mayor of Paris, the socialist Anne Hidalgo.

To find your bearings in Paris , there is a little trick: the 1st Paris arrondissement is in the center of Paris, then the other Paris arrondissements are located forming a spiral turning clockwise, to finish in the 20th in the east. Check out our Districts of Paris Guide to learn more about the Arrondissements of Paris.

Where to stay in Paris? The best area to stay in Paris very much depends on the sort of trip you’re planning. Check our suggestions below for sightseeing, luxury, family, and first-time trips to Paris.

5. Accommodation in Paris

So you got your train or flight tickets for your Paris trip, and the countdown starts! In the previous chapter, you have more or less decided where to stay in Paris (the Arrondissement of Paris). The next step of your Paris travel plan is to book accommodation in Paris.

Hotels and Hostels in Paris

Hotels can be so much more than a simple place to rest your head, and a city like Paris cannot disappoint in terms of accommodation: your Paris hotel can be just as memorable as your sightseeing!

When it comes to booking your bed in Paris, the best site to search and compare different accommodation options in Europe is Booking.com because you have everything from hostels to luxury hotels. What we have found quite regularly on Booking.com is that you can get a room in a small hotel for the same price as a hostel. Research makes all the difference!

Click here to book your hotel with Booking.com

>> For a top Paris experience, stay in a hotel with views of the Eiffel Tower or, even better, in one of the fabulous historic hotels of Paris . All these hotels are gorgeous and the beginning of a five-star Parisian experience!

>> Truth be told, these historic hotels are not for all the pockets. But there are many unique themed hotels in Paris that certainly know how to give their guests a memorable and colorful stay for less money. If you plan a trip to Paris in the summer, consider one of the Paris hotels with a pool for the warmest days.

>> For those people traveling on a budget, we hand-picked the  best hostels in Paris (with dorms but also private rooms). You will be surprised at how cute our proposals are, but in a city like Paris, it could not be otherwise!

Check out these lists of best hotels in the most popular neighborhoods in Paris:

• Best hotels near the Louvre Museum
• Best hotels in Le Marais
• Best hotels in the Latin Quarter
• Best hotels in Saint-Germain-des-Prés

Furnished Apartments in Paris

For a much more local experience, consider renting an apartment in Paris . This is definitely a much more local option than a hotel or a hostel, plus you can even cook some of your meals to save money. And there are some apartments with Eiffel Tower views too!

If you decide to rent an apartment in Paris, we recommend Booking.com , which also does  apartment rentals for travelers with excellent service. With Booking.com, you can have all your hotel and apartment bookings under the same dashboard, plus their customer service is excellent – Find the Best Apartments in Paris with Booking.com

GOOD TO KNOW: Furnished apartments are very requested in Paris, especially in tourist areas. For this reason, apartment owners prioritize bookings for longer stays rather than just a weekend.

Accommodation in Paris: Our Tips for your Paris Trip Planning

>> Book in advance for more options and better prices.

>> Avoid Famous Places in Paris  if you are traveling on a budget.

>> Consider one of the best hotels near Gare du Nord for late arrivals or early departures from this train station. They are good, safe, and cheaper than in the most popular neighborhoods.

>> Check out our Hotel Recommendations in our articles by Paris Arrondissement .

6. How to Get from Paris Airport to the City

If you don’t live in Europe, you will probably fly to Paris. There are currently 153 air companies flying to Paris so that you can fly to the City of Light from anywhere in the world!

There are two airports near Paris: Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) and Orly Airport (ORY). You have different options to get to Paris, depending on which airport you land at.

Best Transportation Options from Paris Airports to City

Our personal recommendation is to pre-book with Welcome Pickups , a reliable and top-rated private transfer service. Your driver will wait for you outside of the arrivals hall with a sign bearing your name, plus a bottle of water and a map of the city. Welcome Pickups have introduced strict safety protocols to protect drivers and guests.

>> Full list of transportation options from CDG Airport to Paris

>> Full list of transportation options from ORY Airport to Paris

7. The Cheat Sheet for Your Paris Trip Planner

The next step of your Paris plan is to decide what to see and do. If this is your first trip to Paris, the lists below cover the main attractions and the most iconic things to do in Paris.

>> 50 Iconic Things to Do in Paris

>> Paris Checklist

>> Best Rooftop Bars in Paris

>> Best Cabarets in Paris

>> Top Things to Do in Paris at Night

>> Most Beautiful Covered Passages of Paris

>> Best Seine River Cruises in Paris

>> Famous Buildings in Paris

>> Famous Paris Landmarks

TIP: Check out the best Paris combo tickets , good combinations of 2-3 Paris tickets & tours that make you save time and money!

8. Paris Itinerary Planner

If you are planning a trip to Paris for the first time and need some inspiration for your Paris travel plan, these Paris itineraries for one day to a week will be helpful.

>> One Day in Paris Itinerary

>> Two Days in Paris Itinerary

>> Three Days in Paris Itinerary

>> Four Days in Paris Itinerary

>> Five Days in Paris Itinerary

>> Six Days in Paris Itinerary

>> One Week in Paris Itinerary

Layover in Paris

If your vacation includes a layover in Paris, it is possible to get a glimpse of what the city offers before your next flight.

If your top priority is to see the Eiffel Tower , it is possible to have a quick ride from the airport to the city center to check it out from your bucket list. Head here for the best ways to go to the Eiffel Tower from Charles de Gaulle Airport, or check out this article for the best ways to go from Orly Airport to the Eiffel Tower.

With a long layover in Paris , you can consider a short itinerary to see some of Paris’ main sites. Check out how to spend a layover in Paris , with some proposals for short itineraries and our best tips.

TIP: This Paris layover tour from the airport always gets the best ratings!   

9. What to Eat & Drink in Paris

When you travel to Paris, be sure to learn about French food in Paris and the best things to eat in Paris. If you’re not trying the food, you are far away from getting to know the culture. We have hand-picked our best food articles for this Paris Trip Planner 2024.

>> Paris Food Guide

>> Where to Eat in Paris

>> French Wine Regions near Paris

>> Famous Foods to Try  in Paris

>> Best Bistros in Paris

>> Best Cheap Eats in Paris

>> Best Parisian Cakes (born and perfectioned in Paris!)

>> Best Desserts in Paris

If you are looking for restaurant recommendations, this blog also lists the best restaurants in Paris by district .

10. Day Trips from Paris

If you have an extra day or two, don’t hesitate to go beyond Paris. Check out the ultimate list of best day trips from Paris , featuring historic cities, seaside towns, world heritage wonders, and adventures in the great French countryside.

Versailles is the most popular day trip from Paris. Home to the Kings of France between 1662 and 1789, the Palace of Versailles is one of the most important landmarks in French history, also listed as a UNESCO World Heritage. The Gardens of Versailles are beautiful to see too! Check out our Versailles Quick Guide to get the most out of this wonderful place.

Disneyland Paris is a must for families visiting the French capital. Check out how to get from Paris to Disneyland Paris and this Disneyland Paris crowd calendar for the quietest days in Mickeyland!

For a more local feeling, there are many picturesque small towns near Paris very easy to reach by train.

11. Planning a Trip to Paris: Know Before You Go

Check out our Paris insider tips for your first time in Paris.

>> Most of the hotels and hostels in Paris offer free Wi-Fi for their guests. You can also get a prepaid SIM card for your trip, which will allow you to communicate with other numbers in France and keep you connected to the internet all the time. Here are the best prepaid SIM cards for France (and how to get them).

>> Paris is one of the most visited cities on this planet. In 2018, 17.95 million international overnight tourists visited the city mainly for sightseeing and shopping. Read how to avoid the longest lines in Paris’ main attractions .

>> The Parisian Metro is nearly 115 years old, the second oldest metro after London’s tube system! The metro now serves 6 million out of 10.5 million people in Paris. Learn how to navigate the Parisian metro with our Paris Metro Guide .

>> Arguably the most famous museum in the world, the Louvre Museum is also the biggest! Indeed, it would take 100 days to see all of the art in the Louvre Museum. Learn how to get the most out of the Louvre in 2 hours or less .

>> The Parisian style is simple, chic, and beautiful. Parisian’s motto is ‘Less is More,’ with a minimum of versatile and easy-to-combine items. If your Paris planning includes making the perfect packing list, check out our suggestions for men and women on what to pack and what to wear in Paris to blend in with the local crowd.

>> One week before leaving for Paris, check out this post about the Paris strikes 2024 . Just in case…

Consider a Paris Tourist Pass

Lines to visit the main Paris tourist attractions are guaranteed. Long lines. If you are planning a Paris trip and you want to visit most of its famous sights, you may want to consider a Paris Tourist Pass for you Paris trip plan.

The  Paris Museum Pass offers visitors direct access to 55 of Paris’s top attractions and museums in Paris. The Paris Museum Pass is available for 2, 4, or 6 consecutive days. If your schedule in Paris is tight and you don’t want to spend your time waiting in line, the Paris Museum Pass is for you.

There are other interesting tourist passes for visiting Paris; check out our Paris Pass Comparison for the full list.

So there you have it, how to plan a Paris trip 2024 you’ll never forget. Go on reading this Paris travel blog 2024 for more information and the history and culture in Paris.

Click here to read more Paris Tips

Back to Homepage

Pin it now & read it later

Disclaimer: This post includes affiliate links, meaning we get a small commission if you make a purchase through our links. It costs you nothing more (in fact, if anything, you’ll get a nice discount) but helps us to go on creating incredible Paris content for you. We trust all products promoted here and would never recommend a product that isn’t of value. World in Paris is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases at no expense to you.

About WORLD IN PARIS

Quirky parisian explorers with a preference for lesser-known sights, we are continuously looking for new ideas and tips to bring you the best of the city of light read more about us ., i am elisa, the travel blogger behind world in paris. quirky explorer with a preference for the local side of my city and its lesser-known sights, i am continuously looking for new ideas to enjoy the best of paris & around . do you want to go beyond the louvre museum or the eiffel tower keep clicking for first-hand information & my best tips learn more.

• Why Travel with Teens
• Travel Tips
• Destinations

The Complete Guide to Traveling with Teenagers to Paris

Our family took a 5-day trip to Paris over Easter weekend. My husband and I, having been to Paris several times, wanted to make sure the kids had a taste of this beautiful city, one of our favorites in Europe. With limited days to explore, we attempted to hit all the highlights just in case this might be their last opportunity to travel during our three-year tour in Germany.

Where we Stayed : St. Germain des-Prés

Paris has so many great neighborhoods, but my favorite place to stay is St. Germain. With three Metro stops a short distance away, we felt right in the middle of everything and yet still housed in a quiet neighborhood. We stayed in this HomeAway apartment right in the heart of St. Germain. The location was great and the apartment was good for teens, but I wouldn’t recommend it for younger kids as the second bedroom was on the other side of the stairwell. Meaning you had to leave the apartment and cross the hall to get to the other bedroom and bath.

Don’t Miss These Off-the-Beaten-Path Paris Attractions for Teens

While it’s important not to miss the major attractions in Paris, there are tons of fun, less touristy places to visit with tweens and teens. Depending on the length of your visit,  these off-the-beaten path Paris attractions  will help mix it up a bit for older kids.

Visit These Must-See Paris Sights in 2 Days

Paris is often a stopover for many where families are quickly wanting to some of the major highlights. With only a day or two in the city of lights, there’s still enough time to see and visit things. I think it’s worth the investment to go even with a little time. I’ve put together a list of our family’s top sights to see if you only have a short stay.

What to Consider When Taking Teens to Versailles

I’m not going to sugar coat this popular tourist destination. Versailles is crowded and a time investment because it’s not right in the city. Only a 30-minute train ride away, this can be totally worth it with a little preparation and managing of expectations.

The Louvre and Teens: Tips to Navigate the World’s Biggest Museum

The Louvre is a beast of a museum. Having been there several times over the years, I thought I could tackle this a little strategically with my teens. We did some preparing before going, but there are a few things we got right and many things we did wrong.

5-Day Paris Family Adventure Begins

We jammed so much into our very short trip to Paris (see full itinerary below), I wanted to provide some context and humor around all the things we did see. In retrospect, I probably pushed my family too much because I felt like we needed a vacation from our vacation. And if you didn’t get enough of Part 1, you can continue onto Part 2 .

What We Did: Our 5-Day Itinerary

• Arrived in Paris (three hours late)
• Dinner at Joe Burger
• Walking tour with Sandemann’s Paris
• Walked up the Champs-Élysées to the Arc de Triomphe.
• Walked on to the Eiffel Tower to climb up via the stairs.
• Dinner at Au Père Louis.
• Breakfast at Claus .
• Quick stop at Shakespeare and Company book store.
• Macaron Tasting Tour from Le Bon Paris . (Tickets bought in advance.)
• 2-hour tour to the Louvre (Tickets bought in advance.)
• Took Metro to Sacre Coure and visited inside.
• Walked through Montmartre and stopped at the Moulin Rouge for a photo.
• Stopped at Galeries Lafayette for some window shopping and to jump on the giant trampoline (the art installation at the time.)
• Quick stop to the Conciergerie .   Wish we had time to stop at the Sainte-Chapelle as well.
• Another stop to Shakespeare and Company for more reading.

Day 5 (Easter)

• Day trip to to Versailles .
• Scootering around St. Germain.
• Trip to see the Eiffel Tower night light show.

All photos © Linda Kerr, TravelTeening

You Might Also Like These Posts

Wine at 10 am Plus 9 Unexpected Things to Experience in Alsace

Don’t Miss These Off-the-Beaten-Path Paris Attractions for Teens

13 European Foods to Try in Their Native Country

Visit These Top Must-See Paris Sights in 2 Days

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

13 things you should know before traveling to Paris

Mar 31, 2024 • 7 min read

These top tips can help a first-time visitor get the most out of their time in Paris © Encrier / Getty Images

Fabienne is one of the author's of our  latest Paris guidebook . Here she shares what you need to know before visiting Paris for the first time.

Bustling, diverse and surprising: such is Paris !

Due to its variety and density, navigating the city for the first time may seem challenging. Even after nearly 20 years of living in Paris, I still encounter nuances in the local lifestyle and learn about Parisian peculiarities, such as being fined for taking a Metro corridor the wrong way.

Here are some practical tips and cultural insights to help you plan for your trip and better understand France's capital.

1. You will want more time in Paris than you think

As the busiest city in France, Paris isn’t short of events, attractions or activities. A glimpse of it can be caught in just a couple of days, but to truly experience the city's diverse sights and experiences, five days to a week is considered ideal. Paris can be enchanting year-round , yet it's worth noting that August is the traditional holiday period in France, which might mean encountering closures and a slowdown in local activities.

2. Book some main attractions in advance

With limited time, pinpoint in advance the main attractions you want to visit. Booking online for museums, exhibitions or theater performances will save you a lot of time waiting in lines. Remember, Parisians enjoy their museums as much as tourists do, so visiting on weekdays and starting early can significantly change your experience of busy landmarks.

3. Leave some time to wander

If you’re more the type who goes with the flow, you might want to stroll until you find yourself surprisingly lost, discovering the unique identity of each arrondissement  (district) . They are all shaped by various layers of history. With most landmarks concentrated in the city center, it is easy to wander around and never get bored. In fact, there's even a French word for this way to visit a place: flâner . 

You might traverse from the upscale Champs-Élysées to the tourist-packed Saint-Michel, then to the trendy Le Marais and the more bohemian Belleville, all within the city's boundaries, without even realizing it. For deeper insights, consider themed tours (food, culture, history, street art, architecture, etc). Many Parisians are eager to share their city with visitors, and it’s a great way to get first-hand insider tips.

4. Dress like a Parisian

Wear something comfortable, because Paris is best explored on foot. Dark clothes will generally help you blend in with the Parisians and help deter pickpockets. That said, if you are into dressing up, don’t feel shy! This is the home of couture after all. 

5. Personal space is important

More important – if you wish to blend in – is being mindful of personal space, especially on public transportation. The golden rule when navigating Paris, particularly on the Metro and RER (suburban train network) is to be unobtrusive. 

During busy times, especially at rush hour (from 7am to 9am and 5pm to 7pm), put your backpack or luggage down and avoid using fold-down seats. When the carriage is full, it's often better to wait for the next train, which usually arrives within minutes. Always keep to the right on corridors and escalators, and have your ticket or Navigo travel pass handy at all times for frequent ticket barriers and control.

6. Get familiar with cafe culture etiquette

The best places to experience Paris and its people are at the cafes. Take a moment to rest on a terrasse –  cafe tables on the street  – to people-watch while planning the next part of your day. Upon arrival, simply choose a table and sit; servers will come and attend to you. Bills are often left with the order on the table, but payment isn't expected immediately unless explicitly stated. Tipping is not required but always appreciated.

It's not uncommon to exchange a few words with people at neighboring tables, but it's equally normal and acceptable to keep to oneself, despite the close proximity of seating (as most establishments maximize their use of pavement space). Smoking tobacco is widespread in France, particularly at outdoor cafes. Indoor smoking is prohibited by law; so if you're wondering whether smoking is allowed, look for ashtrays on the tables. Additionally, Parisians generally value discretion, so loud voices might attract disapproving looks.

7. Try and speak French, even a little 

Despite the hustle, Parisians will generally stop to help if asked. Most people are able to give basic directions in English. The phrase "excusez-moi, parlez-vous anglais?" ("excuse me, do you speak English?") is the best way to get someone's attention. It's also polite to greet and say farewell to anyone you interact with, such as shopkeepers, with bonjour (or bonsoir  at night) and au revoir . 

Should you befriend locals, don’t be surprised to see them make a move towards your cheeks. La bise – giving kisses on the cheeks (two in Paris) – is the most common greeting among friends, including between men. However, as a foreigner, you won’t be expected to do it spontaneously. 

8. Bus and tram services are more accessible than the Metro

The few Metro stations that have elevators are indicated on Metro maps. Wheelchair users or those traveling with a stroller may find it easier to travel by bus or tram, as they are more spacious, at street level and usually equipped with ramps.

9. Always keep an eye on your belongings

Wherever you go, watch out for your personal belongings, as pickpocketing is a risk on the Metro and near popular tourist sites. Scammers may approach you with a petition to sign or items for sale, distracting you from a potential pickpocket accomplice. A "lost" jewel or banknote on the street is another distraction scam.

In some tourist areas, you might encounter people trying to place a bracelet on your wrist and then demand payment. In all cases, politely decline any unsolicited interaction and walk away. Be aware that souvenirs sold by street vendors, including plastic souvenirs at the bottom of the Eiffel Tower , are often significantly overpriced compared to those in shops.

10. Crossing roads can be complicated

Be cautious on the streets as some roads are shared, and cars, taxis, delivery trucks, bikes, scooters, motorbikes, skaters and pedestrians are expected to coexist in these busy spaces. Although the French drive on the right, be aware that bicycles and scooters may use dedicated lanes that sometimes run counter to the traffic direction or merge with pedestrian walkways. They are not always visible so watch out in all directions before stepping out into the road.

11. Paris is generally a safe city

Fortunately, Paris is a safe city overall. In localized areas in the north-east of Paris there can be occasional criminal activity, typically at night time. As a tourist, you are unlikely to be targeted for violent crimes based on race or origin, especially when sticking to central attractions. If you need transportation late at night when the Metro isn't running (it stops between midnight and 5am on weekdays, from 1:30am on weekends), it's safest to call a taxi or use a ride-hailing app.

Generally, Paris is welcoming and LGBTIQ+ friendly (Le Marais is one of the historic “gayborhoods” in Paris). Unfortunately, catcalling towards women can happen on the streets or on public transportation, despite efforts in raising awareness. Take reasonable precautions as you would in any big city: watch out for potentially aggressive behavior – particularly from individuals who may be intoxicated or disoriented – on the Metro or on the streets.

12. Every district has its own central police station

Unfortunately things do sometimes go wrong, so if you run into a situation where the help of the police is required, look for the closest police station. Every arrondissement has its own central office open at all times. Alternatively, dial the European emergency number (112). For the fire department, dial 18.

13. The standard of medical care is high

Should you be in need of medical assistance, Paris has the largest operating public hospital system in Europe with emergency rooms equipped to receive travelers. In case of emergency, dial 15 for the ambulance service. Over-the-counter medicines can be found at pharmacies, which are on almost every street in Paris, with English-speaking staff around tourist areas. A mapping app will direct you to the nearest 24-hour pharmacy, should you need it.

Keep planning your trip to Paris:

Bring home the perfect souvenir with Paris in 5 Shops

Learn how to navigate the City of Lights with The best ways to get around Paris

Plan an affordable trip with Paris on a budget

Stay on the cutting edge with these 5 new (and unexpected) cultural attractions in Paris

This article was first published Aug 5, 2021 and updated Mar 31, 2024.

Explore related stories

Apr 19, 2024 • 8 min read

In France’s far northwest, the Côte d’Opale offers glitz and glamor, spectacular natural beauty and gloriously golden sand beaches in spades.

Apr 17, 2024 • 8 min read

Apr 1, 2024 • 8 min read

Mar 29, 2024 • 6 min read

Jan 10, 2024 • 5 min read

Dec 25, 2023 • 11 min read

Dec 19, 2023 • 6 min read

Nov 25, 2023 • 7 min read

Nov 17, 2023 • 10 min read

Oct 3, 2023 • 4 min read

A travel writer's ultimate travel guide to Paris, France

• Paris is the City of Light, a destination steeped in style, culture, history, and romance.
• Insider created a comprehensive travel guide for the best places to go, stay, and eat in Paris.
• Visit Insider's hub for travel guides, tips, and recommendations .

Paris is one of the world's most fascinating cities with iconic monuments, picturesque views, charming neighborhoods, and gastronomic spoils. Paris is so jam-packed with culture that visitors often recount the city as a living museum. 

While touristy experiences in Paris are pleasing in their own right (see: a stroll along the Seine or a trip via riverboat), I've been visiting Paris for the past 18 years since marrying a Frenchman and through my work as a travel writer, and prefer to float around the city's delightful neighborhoods methodically. Because when you get to know Paris' arrondissements, which you can think of as individual neighborhoods with distinctive vibes, you'll understand Paris for its more distinguished ethos.

But traversing through the City of Light can be overwhelming, even for experienced travelers. With Insider's guide, you'll leave Paris with a well-developed sense of what the city and its people have to offer beyond the average first-time experience. 

→ 6 of the best ways to get to and around Paris, according to experts

→ i've traveled to paris regularly for the last 18 years. i think these 14 hotels are as magical as the city itself., → i'm a new yorker who visits paris every year. here are 11 restaurants where i've had some of the best meals of my life., → 5 secret things to do in paris, plus 8 of the most scenic neighborhoods with the best places to shop  , → here are the latest rules for us visitors to paris, france, plus tips on the best time of year to visit.

• Main content

Paris Travel Tips: 50 Important Things To Know Before Going To Paris

Are you planning a trip to the French capital? This post will give you all the useful Paris travel tips to make your trip fun and much easier.

Oh, Paris! The thought of walking through its beautiful streets , visiting its famous landmarks one after the other, tasting all its delicious foods , and finally climbing the Eiffel Tower , a trip to Paris is a dream come true!

If you’re planning a trip to Paris, it must be extremely exciting knowing that you’ll be in one of the most beautiful cities in the world.

Disclaimer:  This post might contain affiliate links. This means we may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you) should you choose to sign up for a program or make a purchase using one of our links. It’s okay – We love all of the products we recommend anyway, and you will too! Also, that commission helps us keep this awesome free blog up to date! You can read our  full disclosure here  for more details!

However, as you prepare for your visit, whether you’re going to Paris for the first time or have been there countless times, there are a number of Paris travel tips that will help you have a fun, safe, and seamless trip.

As someone who lives in the city, I’ve experienced Paris countless times and have found myself in various circumstances that have given me the immense experience to share practical tips for visiting Paris.

So, before you go, make sure that you read these Paris travel tips.

Before You Go, Here’s How to Plan Your Visit To Paris: Practical Quick Tips

WHERE TO STAY Best Eiffel Tower Views:  Hôtel Le Walt  (9.0) Luxury stay:  Pullman Paris Tour Eiffel  (8.2) Mid-range stay:  Hôtel Eiffel  (8.7) Budget Stay:  People – Paris Bercy  (8.9) Apartment Rental:  Résidence Charles Floquet  (9.1)  

BEST GUIDED TOURS Louvre Museum guided tour : (4.5/5) Seine River Dinner Cruise : (4.7/5) Montmartre Walking Tour : (4.8/5) Le Marais Walking Food Tour : (4.5/5) Versailles Guided Tour : (4.8/5) Eiffel Tower Guided Tour : (4.4/5) 

• Considering travel insurance for your trip? World Nomads offers coverage for more than 150 adventure activities as well as emergency medical, lost luggage, trip cancellation, and more.
• Prepare your trip extensively with this Paris Travel guidebook .
• Don’t forget a universal travel adapter , a travel neck pouch , and comfortable walking shoes .
• Consider getting either the museum pass or the Paris city pass if you plan to visit many attractions. The city pass comes with free transportation and access to the hop-on-hop-off bus. You can read my Paris museum pass review to see if it’s right for you.
• Book this private transfer from CDG airport to Paris to avoid the hustle of figuring out how to get to Paris.

Paris Travel Tips: Things To Know Before Visiting Paris

Whether it’s choosing the right time to visit, tips on navigating public transportation, how to dress in Paris, tips to fully get the most when visiting attractions, or mistakes to avoid, here are the best Paris tips for travelers.

For easy navigation, I’ll be categorizing this article into; general travel tips for Paris, money tips for visiting Paris, transportation travel tips for Paris, safety tips for traveling to Paris, and food & restaurant tips for Paris travelers. Now, let’s dive in.

General travel tips for Paris

1. choose the time to visit paris that is best for you.

The first thing to consider when planning a trip to Paris is to choose the best time to visit that works for you. There is no one answer that fits all as we all have different things going on in our lives.

But if you keep other factors constant and base your decision on what’s happening in Paris, or the weather, here is a brief to help you decide.

Paris in Spring is one of the best times to visit Paris. The temperatures are warm, the flowers are blooming and there are not huge crowds yet.

On the other hand, Paris in summer has the most pleasant weather (if there is no heat wave), and the days are long to enjoy the city to the max, however, it sees the biggest crowds of tourists and airplane fares, attractions, and hotels are at their highest.

For an in-between, opt to visit Paris in the fall . The weather is chilly, the streets are covered in fall colors, the crowds are reduced, especially towards the beginning of winter, and the general cost of travel starts to fall.

If you don’t want to deal with huge crowds, you can opt to visit Paris in winter . During this time, the crowds disappear, (though they creep back in during the Christmas season ), and the cost of flights and accommodation is lower, but you’ll have to brave the cold temperatures and short days.

I hope the breakdown of the season helps you choose but if personally I had to choose, I would say towards the end of spring and the beginning of fall are the best times to visit Paris.

The temperatures are still pretty warm, the crowds are not that much and the cost is not that high too.

2. Don’t Skimp on Travel Insurance

One of the best tips for traveling to Paris is not to forego travel Insurance. In fact, before traveling anywhere, whether it’s Paris or not, make sure that you have travel insurance.

So many things can happen on the road! You could lose your valuable travel accessories, you may need expensive urgent care, and if you don’t have travel insurance, it will get expensive pretty quickly yet insurance could have covered everything if you had spent just a few bucks on it.

Though there are countless travel insurance companies out there, the one I trust and recommend is World Nomads Travel insurance . They operate in over 130 countries, so it’s easy to request a quote and the claim process is not a rat race.

However, if you’re a digital nomad or a long-term traveler, you can also check out Safety Wings Travel insurance as they offer great deals for long-term travelers.

3. Don’t visit only the famous landmarks

It’s obvious the first places you’ll have on your Paris travel bucket list are the famous attractions like the Louvre Museum, the Eiffel Tower, the Sacre Coeur, the Arc de Triomphe, the Orsay Museum, and others.

Instead of just visiting only those ones, venture into other non-touristy things to do in Paris and go off the beaten path. This way, you’ll be able to explore Paris beyond what is in the guidebooks .

Some of the hidden gems of Paris worth checking out include parks like Parc Manceau, the covered passages of Paris , Les Arènes de Lutèce, the windmills in Montmartre , Paris Sewer Museum, Paris pet cemetery, and many others.

4. Buy skip-the-line tickets in advance to avoid wasting time in queues

One of the most useful tips when visiting Paris is to buy skip-the-line entry tickets to attractions in advance.

Paris is one of the most visited cities in Europe , so you can expect long queues at its popular attractions. At places like the Louvre, Eiffel Tower, or even Arc de Triomphe, you can easily spend 2-3 hours just in lines to access them.

While this may not be a big issue if you have a long time in the city, but if you’re visiting Paris for a weekend or even 1 day , you’ll lose so much time in queues instead of visiting other attractions.

The best way to avoid this is by purchasing skip-the-line tickets online. Some of the skip-the-line tickets you can buy in advance for popular attractions include;

• This Eiffel Tower skip-the-line ticket to the summit
• The Louvre museum skip-the-line ticket with an audio guide
• The Orsay museum skip-the-line ticket
• This Arc de Triomphe skip-the-line ticket
• Versailles Palace skip-the-line entry ticket to the palace and gardens
• And many others.

You can also check out my complete list of skip-the-line entry tickets to popular landmarks all in one place.

Pro tip* Instead of buying each individual ticket, you can choose to buy this Paris pass that will give you access to over 80 attractions for free while also skipping the long lines. Alternatively, if you intend to visit a number of museums, you’re better off buying this Paris museum pass . You can get more details about the museum pass by reading my detailed Paris museum pass review here .

5. Choose your accommodation in the central districts of Paris

If you have a few days in Paris, the last thing you want to do is waste time on long commutes by staying outside Paris or even in arrondissements that are a bit far from everything.

Instead of staying in the 20th district which is a bit far from the major attractions, choose to stay in either the 7th, 8th, or even the 1st. The bigger the number, the further away it is from central Paris.

You can read my post about where to stay in Paris according to arrondissements to get a general idea of the best area to stay in while in Paris.

6. Book your Hotel/Apartment rental way in advance

Courtesy of Hotel Audran / Booking.com

While still on the topic of booking in advance, another useful Paris travel tip is to book your accommodation in advance, especially in the summer since they book out fast.

This may not happen at all hotels/apartments but the one that suits your particular needs may be booked out if you don’t book in advance.

To help you choose the perfect hotel, I’ve written numerous articles about accommodation. You can click on the links below to go to a particular accommodation post that suits your need.

• Best Hotels with Eiffel Tower views
• Coolest Airbnbs and Apartment rentals with Eiffel Tower views
• Best Paris Hotels with Swimming Pools
• Top Hotels in Montmartre
• Budget-friendly Apartment rentals in Paris
• Best Hotels Near the Louvre museum
• Luxury Apartment vacation rentals in Paris

Alternatively, you can book my expert-selected hotels below if going through the above articles seems like a lot of work.

This is the best hotel with a view of the Eiffel Tower, this is the hotel I recommend for a luxury stay, this one for mid-range travelers, and this one for budget travelers. If you prefer an apartment rental, you’ll love everything about this aparthotel .

7. Take advantage of free museums

If you’re traveling on a budget or just want to save money for something else, one of the best tips for traveling in Paris is to take advantage of free museums.

There are so many free museums in Paris that are worth visiting including; Petit Palais, Musée Carnavalet, Maison De Victor Hugo, Musée De La Vie Romantique, and many others.

The best part is that since most people flock to the famous Paris museums , these ones are usually less crowded, yet interesting to visit and above all free.

8. Don’t just stick to Paris! explore the nearby cities Too

Paris is incredibly beautiful — there is no denying that! However, instead of just visiting the city and leaving the country, you should also explore nearby cities and towns.

You can plan a weekend getaway from Paris or even a day trip to places like Strasbourg, Monet’s garden, Provins, Mont Saint Michel , Chantilly, or any of these cute cities near Paris .

This will help you escape the non-stop life of Paris for a while as you enjoy the beauty of other parts of France.

9. Don’t try to see everything in a short amount of time

It’s not uncommon to want to fit in as many activities as you can in a short amount of time.

But the truth is, it’s quite impossible to see everything in one visit and quite frankly, I’ve not seen everything in Paris myself. Sometimes I find myself discovering new gems while randomly walking.

Trying to see everything will just create travel burnout since you’ll be running from one attraction to another instead of trying to immerse yourself and fully enjoy the experience.

10. Try to dress like Parisians

When it comes to what to wear in Paris, strive to dress like the locals! And how do locals dress, you may ask?

Parisians like to keep things chic and they always look like they put thought into what they’re wearing without going overboard. Not the runway kind of thing, but they always look well put together.

It’s hard to find Parisians wearing sports clothes to walk on the streets (except if they’re actively working out), or even sweatpants.

You can check out my article on what not to wear in Paris to know exactly what to leave home if you want to look like a Parisian.

11. Pack the right clothes for Each season

Before leaving the subject of clothes, another Paris travel tip to note is to pack clothes for the right season.

I have a couple of articles to help you with this depending on the season you’re visiting.

For the months of March to May, here is what to wear in Paris in springtime , what to wear in Paris in the summer if you’re traveling between June to August, what to wear in Paris in the fall if you’re visiting between August to November, and finally what to wear in Paris in the winter if your trip falls between December to February.

With those articles, you’ll know exactly the right clothes to pack for each season!

12. Go to vantage points to take in the views of the city

Paris is beautiful when seen from below but it gets even more magical from above. As you explore the city, get some time to take in the stunning views of Paris from various vantage points.

Some of the places to get stunning views of Paris include the top of the Eiffel Tower, Sacre Coeur, Ard de Triomphe, Butte Chaumont, Montparnasse Tower, Galeries Lafayette, and more. You can also enjoy the views of the Iron lady from these Eiffel Tower view spots .

13. Learning a little French goes a long way

You may hear some people say that English is widely spoken in Paris but I am here to tell you that that’s not true.

In fact, it’s more surprising to find a person who speaks English than one who doesn’t. Of course, people in the tourism industry will speak English but don’t be surprised to go to a store and no one speaks English.

This goes to say that, as you plan to visit Paris, you can learn a few basic French words to help you get around. It doesn’t have to be much but it’s always nice to try.

Some of the French words you can learn include;

• Bonjour = Hello
• Au revoir = Goodbye
• s’il vous plaît = Please
• Merci = Thank you
• De rien = you’re welcome
• Pardon = Pardon me
• Monsieur = Sir
• Madame = miss
• Une carafe d’eau, s’il Vous plaît = tap water, please
• l’addition s’il Vous plaît = The check/bill, please
• A emporter s’il vous plaît = Take away, please
• Je ne parle pas Français, désolé = sorry, I don’t speak English
• Parlez-vous anglais? = Do you speak English?
• Ou est…., s’il vous plaît? = Where is…., please?

14. Paris is not just romance and glamour

Paris is no doubt one of the most romantic places in the world. In fact, one of its nicknames is the city of love .

Yes, there are so many romantic things to do in Paris and it’s probably the number one proposal destination for couples.

But as romantic and charming as it is, it’s not just romance! It has an ugly side to it. Yes, pickpockets will try to take your stuff, scammers will try to scam you, you’ll see a few homeless people and beggars on the stress, and you be welcomed by the smell of Piss in some metro stations.

I am telling you this so that when you come, you don’t get struck by the Paris Syndrome many tourists face, especially those from Japan.

15. Check the opening hours for attractions before you visit

Another one of my favorite Paris travel tips is to check the opening hours of attractions before you visit.

Don’t just assume that all places are open at the same time or stay closed on the same days! Also, opening hours can change due to the season, so be sure to confirm before you go.

16. Create an itinerary but be open to adjusting it

Since Paris has a lot of things to see and do, the best way to see a number of them is by creating a realistic itinerary.

However, try not to follow it religiously. Leave some time in between to do spontaneous activities.

If a visit to one place leads you to another that was not on your itinerary but you’re interested in seeing it, you can just adjust your itinerary because the best experiences come unplanned — at least in some cases.

17. Most Museums in Paris close on Monday, not Sunday

It’s easy to assume that museums would be closed on Sundays but not in Paris. Most big (actually even the small ones) close on Mondays.

In fact, some restaurants too and shops close on Monday instead of Sunday. This is to make sure that people who work Monday – Friday can access certain services on Sunday.

This in turn means that people who worked on Sunday close on Monday. So, don’t just assume, check if the museum is open before your visit.

18. Explore Paris on Foot

Paris is a city best explored on foot. Most of the city’s major landmarks are not far from each other and you discover much more when you walk instead of taking the metro all the time.

For example, you could easily walk from the Opera area to Montmartre without even realizing it. While you can take the metro to reach there, you can easily walk as there are so many hidden gems to uncover along the way.

In fact, you’ll find most travelers say they walked much more in Paris than in other major European cities. This is usually common for some tourists from the US where walking is not as much as in Europe.

19. Carry Comfortable Walking shoes to Paris

If you’re a regular reader of this blog, you know that this is one thing I say all the time. Paris’s streets are covered in cobblestones and it will be hard to walk in high heels.

And if you’re going to explore the city on foot as mentioned above, you’ll want to leave your stilettoes and wedges at home and opt for comfortable walking shoes like sneakers or boots.

20. Try exploring Paris on a bike

Another way to explore Paris is to try biking. Since the world p*ndemic, Paris has put more bike lanes in place to ensure that it becomes more bike-friendly.

It’s easy to rent a bike in Paris as there are many stations all over the city where you can rent a Velib bike from without even talking to anyone.

When you’re done biking, you don’t have to take it back to where you picked it from, but rather at any other bike station you find along the way.

You can go biking along the Seine (nothing more romantic than that), along Canal Saint-Martin, and more.

21. Never forget to say bonjour when you enter a shop

While this may not be the norm back in your country, in Paris, it’s considered rude to not say Bonjour when you enter a shop.

In fact, even when you’re leaving the shop, saying goodbye is considered good manners. You can say au revoir which means “goodbye” or bonne journée for “have a good day”.

22. Carry your student id

In Paris, students are usually offered a discounted rate at major attractions, so if you’re a student, carry your valid student ID to take advantage of the reduced rates.

23. Refrain from shopping at every shop you see

Paris is a shoppers’ haven and if you’re a shopaholic, you may want to pop into every store you see to buy something.

The truth is that most shops in Paris are appealing and it’s like every single one is calling your name.

If you can resist the temptations, window shopping can do the trick, otherwise, you might just spend all your money buying luxury French brands in Paris.

24. Do not speak too loud

Another way to avoid looking like a tourist (and avoid making yourself a target by scammers and pickpockets) is by not speaking too loud.

French people in general don’t speak loud in public and always give an eye to tourists who speak like they’re addressing the entire room. Just keep the voice lower, at least until you leave Paris.

25. Explore Some of the beautiful parks in Paris

Beyond the famous landmarks, Paris is endowed with beautiful parks and gardens worth exploring. These green patches offer an escape into nature to a rather bustling city.

Whether it’s taking a leisurely walk to enjoy the cherry blossoms (if you visit in spring) or wanting to experience a Parisian picnic , there are a number of parks to choose from.

Some of the best Parisian parks not to miss include; Jardin des Plantes, Luxembourg gardens, Butte Chaumont, Parc Monceau, Tuileries gardens, Trocadero gardens, and more.

26. Plan alternative activities to do in case it rains

Regardless of the time of the year you visit whether it’s summer or winter, it’s likely to rain in Paris. But a rainy day doesn’t mean that you should just stay in your hotel room doing nothing.

There is plenty of things to do in Paris on a rainy day that you can choose from so that you don’t waste a day of sightseeing.

Plan to do activities like visiting museums or exploring the covered passages of Paris on the day it rains.

27. Be prepared for the rain

In the same way, don’t just plan out activities for a rainy day but also plan outfits and accessories for such days.

Make sure that you carry a windproof travel umbrella like this and/or this lightweight waterproof rain jacket .

28. Wake up early at least once to catch a sunrise

Imagine the sun rising above the Eiffel tower! Magical, right? If you’re in Paris for a few days, one thing you shouldn’t miss out on is taking in the beauty of the city with the first lights of the day.

You can go to any of these Paris sunrise spots and I guarantee you that compromising your sleep early in the morning will be so worth it.

29. Or stay for the sunset

If you’re not a morning person or you just prefer sunsets, ending your day with a beautiful sunset in Paris will be a memorable one.

You can go to places like Montparnasse Tower, Sacre Coeur, or the Seine cruise to watch a magical sunset.

30. Beware That Most Things close on Sunday

Like most cities, you’ll find Paris calm and quiet on Sundays. Most shops, bakeries, and even some restaurants stay closed on Sunday.

Though you’ll be able to visit some museums since they close on Monday as mentioned above, you may need to plan how to spend your Sunday well in Paris.

Tips for Paris Travel: Food & Restaurants

31. take a food tour while in paris.

Another way to fully immerse yourself in French culture is by taking a food tour. You’ll be able to not only learn more about French food but also taste it. Below are the 3 food tours I recommend in Paris.

• Le Marais Walking Food Tour: This food-guided tour will take you through the vibrant neighborhood of Le Marais. You’ll taste some wine and cheese, some pastries, and any other French delicacies that may be in during that season.
• Montmartre Cheese, Wine, and Pastry Tour: If you’d rather discover the neighborhood of Montmartre, then this is the best food tour for you. Just like the above, you’ll taste some cheese, wine, pastries, and Charcuterie. The tour is fun and informative and the guides are very friendly.
• Saint-Germain-des-Prés Pastry and Chocolate Walking Tour: If you have a sweet tooth, then this guided pastry tour is what I recommend. You’ll taste different types of chocolates, bread, and other French pastries during your tour while admiring all the beautiful bakeries in the Saint-Germain-des-Prés neighborhood.

32. Try as much French food as you can

One of the best ways to immerse yourself in the culture of the place you’re visiting is to try their local food and Paris is no different.

French cuisine is one of the best cuisines in the world and it would be a huge mistake not to try as much as you can.

Some of the French foods you can try include; Raclette (if you visit in the colder months), Crêpes, Croque Monsieur & Croque Madame, or Jambon-Beurre but don’t be afraid to try traditional French foods too like Escagorts, Frog Legs, or Couilles De Mouton (Mutton Testicles).

33. Don’t eat near famous attractions unless you have the budget for it

Unless you have the budget for it, I would refrain from eating at restaurants near popular places.

They’re usually expensive yet just a few minutes away you could get the same exact things (or even better) for less.

34. Make reservations at restaurants ahead of time

Just like at attractions, you’ll need to make reservations at restaurants, especially fancy ones like these restaurants with a view of the Eiffel Tower .

While you can just arrive at smaller cafes and bistros, some restaurants require making a reservation. You can’t just walk in and expect to be seated.

For some, you can make a reservation that very day while others require making a reservation up to 3 months in advance as they book out fast.

One example is Jules Verne , a restaurant at the Eiffel Tower. It’s almost impossible to find availability if you book 1 week or 2 in advance, even a month would be late. Try 2 or 3 months in advance to reserve a table.

So, before you go to Paris, make sure you make reservations if you plan to eat at such restaurants.

35. There is no need to tip At Parisian Restaurants (though appreciated)

While tipping is a big deal in most countries, it’s not the case in Paris. In Paris, the service fee is usually included in the overall price of the meal at restaurants, so don’t feel compelled to tip.

On the other hand, if the service you received was phenomenal and you want to tip your server, you can ask them to include an amount you want to tip to your bill but the best option is to leave a cash tip.

36. Drink tap water instead of buying bottled one

Water in Paris is safe to drink! Locals drink it and you too can. So, instead of wasting money on bottled water, you can just drink tap water from your hotel room.

In fact, even if you’re out exploring, you can still access tap water from the many water fountains (known as Wallace fountains) dotted around the city. Some even have sparkling water if that’s what you prefer.

These fountains are hard to miss as some are historically built but for ease of access, you can check this page for the exact locations in each arrondissement.

Just make sure to carry a reusable travel water bottle like this so that you refill it every time it runs dry.

This won’t only save you money but it’s also great for the environment as it reduces plastic usage.

37. Request for Tap Water at Restaurants too

While still on the topic of water, ask for tap water at restaurants. Most Parisian cafes and restaurants have made it a habit to always put a bottle of tap water on every table.

However, if the restaurant you go to doesn’t do it automatically, feel free to ask for tap water and it will be offered to you for free.

Travel tips for Paris Transporation

38. the metro is the best way to get around.

Paris’s metro system is very well connected and it’s easy to get around no matter where you are. It’s easy to use, you won’t be stuck in traffic, and it’s also the cheapest form of transportation in Paris.

The other options are buses, trams, taxis, or Uber. The downside with buses is getting stuck in traffic and the same applies to taxis/Uber except that the latter is a bit more expensive compared to buses or the metro and the train.

39. Renting A Car In Paris Is A Bad Idea

One of the things to know before traveling to Paris is that renting a car is a very bad idea.

As I mentioned above, public transportation in the city is very effective and cheap compared to hiring a car.

Renting a car will mean being stuck in traffic most time and you’ll have to deal with the crazy Parisian drivers, plus, it’s very expensive. So, save yourself from that pain but choosing not to hire a car. It’s really not needed!

40. Buy A Carnet Of Metro Tickets Instead Of One Every Time

If you plan to ride the metro a number of times (this is inevitable if you’re spending more than 3 days in the city), you’ll be better off buying a carnet of metro tickets.

A carnet is a bundle of 10 tickets and it’s cheaper than buying 10 individual tickets. It will also save you time instead of going to a ticket machine every time you need a new ticket.

41. Don’t Throw Away Your Metro/Train Ticket Just Yet

While still on the topic of tickets, one of the important Paris tips and tricks is to not trash your metro ticket before you fully exit the station at the end of your trip.

If the ticket control team finds you without a ticket, chances are high that you’ll be fined — which is 10 times more than the ticket price.

Plus, the ticket will help you exit the metro/train station. Without it, you may need to buy another one just to exit.

42. Beware of the metro working hours before going out to party late at night

Paris nightlife is fun and vibrant and you should enjoy it at least once. But as you plan to go out, be mindful of the metro working hours.

Is there a metro running on the line you take to go to your hotel (check if there are ongoing strikes)?

What time do they stop working on the day you want to go out? Check all this ahead and plan when to go back if you want to use the metro. Check the Ratp website to stay updated on the metro working hours.

43. You can also download the Bonjour RATP app

Besides just checking the website, you can download the Ratp app to stay updated on all the public transportation in Paris.

With the Bonjour RATP app , you’ll know when a metro line is closed, where to take the metro from, find the closest bus line, Velib stations, RER, the night bus, and more.

Think of it as a one-stop shop for all public transportation around Paris.

44. Avoid taking the metro during rush hours (if possible)

The metro can be something during rush hour, usually between 8 AM to 9 AM and then from  6 PM to 7:30 PM. They’re heavily packed and everyone seems to be in a rush for some reason.

As a tourist, it may not be the best moment to take the metro, especially if you can avoid it.

To give you a rough picture, you may not get where to seat, people will be pushing you (it will be person to person), and on some lines, you may not even be able to get onto the metro because it’s just too packed.

So, if you can avoid taking the metro during rush hours, do it.

45. Make city mapper your friend

One of the best apps to use in Paris is city mapper. I use it all the time for literally anything.

Besides the usual direction which I find more accurate than google maps sometimes, they give metro and train live updates.

You just type in where you want to go and it will show you the best metro/train to take, where to stop, which exist to take, and the best car on the metro/train to sit in.

Though google maps can do some of this, I find Citymapper much more accurate every time!

Money Tips for Traveling in Paris

46. you don’t have to spend a lot in paris.

Paris is ranked as one of the most expensive cities to visit! And while that is true, it doesn’t mean that people traveling on a budget can’t make it work at all.

There are so many free things to do in Paris that will save a couple of bucks, like visiting free museums as we talked about earlier.

You can also sign up for free walking tours and instead of eating out every day, make your own meals if you booked an apartment rental with a kitchen.

47. Cards a widely accepted but some places have a minimum amount they accept

One of the other Paris tourist tips you should know is that cards are widely accepted in most places. However, some places, usually small bars, bakeries, and some shops require a minimum amount to be able to pay by card.

It can be anywhere from a minimum spend of 3€ to 6€. For anything below that, you’d be required to pay by cash.

Actually, at times you’ll come across places that don’t accept cards at all. So, as you visit Paris, try to always carry some cash with you however little it may be.

48. Always carry a few coins for public toilets

Paris is one of those cities where you have to pay to access public toilets, so carry a few coins, (usually 1 Euro) for La Dame Pipi or the lady seated near the toilet collecting money.

However, in some public toilets, credit/debit cards work, so you can use the no-contact payment with ease.

Safety Travel Tips in Paris

49. look out for paris travel scams.

Unfortunately, scams are very rampant in Paris, especially in the areas near the Eiffel Tower and other crowded places.

As you explore, be vigilant and aware of your surroundings. Some of the scams to look out for include;

Someone coming to you with some written documents  and asking you to sign and support their cause.

Don’t fall for this because as soon as you sign, they’ll demand money aggressively and since you may want to get out of that uncomfortable situation pretty soon, you will be tempted to just give them money and leave.

If anyone (usually women) comes to you with stuff like this, just say No, thanks, and move on.

Another scam is the friendship bracelet scam . This one usually happens around Sacre Coeur with someone coming towards you in a friendly way with a bracelet. They’ll try to put it on your wrist and then force you to pay for you. Just move away from anyone trying to be friendly with a bracelet.

50. Be Aware Of Pickpockets

Unfortunately, this is one of the vices that seem to never go away in Paris. Pickpockets are usually in crowded places, in the metro and also the subway.

The only way to avoid them is to carry your bag in the front and be mindful of your surroundings all the time.

Pickpockets also usually target tourists as tourists are less opposed to following up on the crime, so try not to look like a tourist, especially in sketchy places.

Final Thoughts on the Best Paris Travel Tips

It’s easy to miss or overlook some things when going to the French capital, but with these tips for traveling to Paris, I hope you’ll have a great time and know exactly what and what not to do in Paris .

Whether it’s avoiding scams, deciding when to go, or even how to navigate the city, these travel tips for Paris will come in handy.

NEVER TRAVEL TO PARIS WITHOUT TRAVEL INSURANCE One of the biggest mistakes you’ll ever make when planning a trip to Paris is to forego Travel Insurance ! You might think that it’s expensive, but when you think of how much it will save you when you lose your valuables or even get sick, then you’ll know that it’s NOT that expensive! Unfortunately, things can and do go wrong when you travel. World Nomads offers coverage for more than 150 activities as well as emergency medical, lost luggage, trip cancellation, and more. If you’re considering travel insurance for your trip, check out World Nomads .

Check out these posts to help you plan your trip to Paris

• Fun things to do in Paris on a Rainy day
• Famous Paintings in Paris
• Where to Find the Best Macarons in Paris
• Famous Paintings at the Louvre Museum
• Best Covered Passages of Paris
• Most beautiful neighborhoods of Paris
• Fun free things to do in Paris
• Famous Churches to Visit in Paris
• Best Museums in Paris
• Tips for Visiting the Eiffel Tower
• How to spend One day In Paris

Was this post on how to travel in Paris helpful? Then please consider sharing it with others.

Sharing is caring!

Esther is the face and voice behind Dreams in Paris! She has always been obsessed with Paris even before she moved there. She has lived in Paris for a couple of years, and that obsession has not changed! That love for Paris, plus her passion for writing led to the birth of Dreams in Paris! She now shares all the practical tips and guides she’s picked along the way to help you plan a memorable trip to the city of love! You can learn more about her here !

Similar Posts

7 Practical Tips For Visiting The Eiffel Tower In Paris

Planning to see the iconic tower of Paris? Here are the practical tips for visiting the Eiffel tower with all the information you need to plan your visit. Visiting Paris without experiencing the Eiffel tower is out of the question!!…

What Not To Do in Paris: 26 Rookie Mistakes To Avoid

Traveling to the French capital for the first time or even the second time and wondering what not to do in Paris? This post will show you some rookie mistakes to avoid for a fun trip. There is nothing more…

Paris Etiquette: The Unspoken Rules You Need To Know

Have you ever seen someone do something in Paris and wonder if they really got the memo that that’s just not acceptable? Perhaps you got a weird look from a local and you’ve been asking yourself what you did wrong…

Paris first time visitors: Tips for Visiting Paris for the first time

Traveling to Paris for the first time? Here is the complete guide to visiting Paris for the first time with everything you need to know. That’s it, the decision is made, you’re going to visit Paris! First of all, congratulations…

Stunning Views From the Eiffel Tower (Climbing Tips, Photo Diary +FAQs)

Planning to visit the Eiffel Tower but want to get a sneak peek of what you’ll get? This post will give you tips plus photos of the views from the Eiffel Tower! The Eiffel Tower is no doubt the most…

How to Visit Sacre Coeur in Paris (The Ultimate Guide)

Want to visit Sacre Coeur in Paris but are not sure how to plan your visit, then this article is for you! Visiting Sacre Coeur is one of the highlights of a trip to Paris whether it’s for religious reasons…

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Paris France travel requirements 2024: What American travelers need to know

We aim to keep this post updated about Paris France travel in 2024 with official Paris travel restrictions, requirements, and health and safety guidance. Our goal is to help you make informed decisions so you can travel confidently, safely, and responsibly in this new post-pandemic world of ours.

Paris is a destination close to our hearts, as Michelle has relatives in the city and studied in Paris in college.

As restrictions vary based on the traveler’s citizenship, we will focus primarily on those affecting U.S. citizens.

Last update: January 2024. Originally published: May 2021.

Disclosure: This post contains some affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of our links, we may receive a small commission, at no additional cost to you.

January 2024 – Agnes Groonwald of Travel on the Reg , expats in France: “Tourism in Paris has seemed light since our move just outside of the city, but we also haven’t experienced the peak summer season yet. It’s still expected to book the big attractions (e.g. Louvre Museum) a few weeks ahead of travel, and dinner reservations remain a must at popular eateries.

Some locals and tourists are still voluntarily masking on crowded public transit and popular tourist destinations. Otherwise, it appears to be business as usual. There are no COVID protocols outside of doctors’ offices where masking is compulsory. Paris attractions, restaurants, and public transit are all operating without COVID-era restrictions. You can travel to/from the city without vaccine cards. That said, the city continues to struggle with regular disruptions to transit/worker shortages that require patience from travelers, but this has more to do with local politics vs. COVID. It’ll be interesting to see what happens during the Olympics.

The general tips for Paris travel apply. Leave plenty of time to get to/from attractions around the city and pre-book the big ticket items as soon as you know when you’re visiting.”

*At the end of the post, we share more on-the-ground perspectives from local residents and travelers to the Paris so you can get a true sense of what to expect.

Table of Contents

Can US citizens travel to Paris, France? Can I travel to Paris right now? 

Yes, France is open to American travelers, regardless of vaccination status.

As of August 2022 , France removed all COVID entry requirements for any traveler from any country.

Testing, proof of vaccination, proof of recovery, proof of a compelling reason for travel, and sworn declaration about Covid contact and symptoms are no longer required .

Visitors from over 60  visa-exempt countries , including the U.S., will soon be required to have a European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) travel authorization to enter Italy and other European countries . The start date has been delayed from 2024 to 2025. 

See details about ETIAS here

Paris, France travel restrictions currently allow traveling between regions. However, as of May 2023 , short-haul domestic flights that can be taken by train in less than two-and-a-half hours are not allowed. 

Effective March 2022, masks are no longer required in indoor spaces and public transport but still highly recommended in enclosed and small spaces, in hospitals, and other medical centers.

Quarantine rules in Paris, France: What happens if I get Covid?

Travelers are not required to quarantine upon arrival in France unless presenting symptoms of Covid.

Travelers who test positive for COVID-19 while in France are no longer required to self-isolate but are asked to observe the following guidelines:

• Wear mask, observe physical distancing, practice hand hygiene
• Avoid contact with people who are immunocompromised
• Notify others (family, friends, colleagues) you came in contact with within 48 hours before the onset of symptoms, or within 7 days before testing positive, if no symptoms are present
• Contact a doctor and monitor your health

See details here .

Paris Health Pass/Pass Sanitaire Requirements for Dining, Attractions, and Travel

You might be wondering: Do I need a vaccine certificate or Covid test to enter restaurants, public transit, accommodations, and attractions in Paris?

Since March 2022, a vaccine pass is no longer required to enter most establishments.

As of August 2022, Health Pass or passe sanitaire , obtained with a proof of either vaccination or a recent negative Covid test, is no longer required.

Can Americans travel to Paris France in 2024?

Travel to Paris in May is open for US citizens without restrictions. Please read on for details and check back for updates, as protocols may change.

What is it like to fly to Paris, France CDG Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport right now? As of March 2022, wearing a mask is no longer required in French airports. Check with your individual airline about mask requirements on board the flight.

Temperature checks or other screenings may be done at the airport. Hand sanitizers are readily available. 

Do Americans have to quarantine when traveling to Paris, France? No. Travelers are not required to quarantine upon arrival in France. 

Does France check COVID-19 symptoms of incoming travelers? Health screening procedures, including temperature checks, may be in place at airports and other ports of entry in France. 

Does France require a negative Covid 19 test for American travelers?  As of August 2022, a negative Covid 19 test is no longer required for entry. 

Does France require a proof of Coronavirus vaccine for American travelers? As of August 2022, a proof of Coronavirus vaccine is no longer required for entry.

Do I still need to provide a negative Covid test or quarantine if I have been vaccinated? No. Quarantine or proof of a negative Covid test are no longer required, regardless of vaccination status.

Is a booster shot required for travel to Paris, France? As of August 2022, booster shots are no longer required for purposes of entry to France. There is currently no expiration period set for the validity of vaccinations.

What Covid testing options are available for travelers in Paris, France? U.S. Citizens can obtain a COVID-19 test at laboratories and testing centers in Paris. Covid-19 testing centers are also available for certain situations in Paris-Charles de Gaulle airport and Paris-Orly by appointment .

PCR tests generally cost between 50 and 100 euros, payable in advance. Results for the PCR test are available within 48 hours. Antigen tests cost 29 euros for those not covered by French social security; results are usually available within half an hour.

Testing centers in France can be found on this map.

What healthcare options are available to travelers in Paris, France who get the virus? Paris, France hospitals and clinics are open. Testing in labs and pharmacies is available to foreign visitors at their own expense.

For travel insurance that covers Covid, check out Nomad Insurance by Safety Wing >

What service businesses and restaurants are open in Paris, France?  Restaurants, bars, cafes, museums, parks, clubs, attractions (including the Eiffel Tower), and tours have reopened. Stadiums, arenas and other large-capacity venues are allowed to operate at full capacity. 

Are face masks required in Paris, France? Masks are no longer required in France but may still be required in medical facilities. Private businesses may make masks a condition of entry at their discretion, but this is rare. 

Are buses running in Paris, France? Public transportation is available in Paris. A health pass is not required.

Will France impose new Covid restrictions? What’s next is difficult to predict. Historically, most countries impose COVID-19 restrictions when strains on the health care system might become unsustainable.

How has the Coronavirus impacted Paris, France?

France has been one of the hardest hit countries in Europe and went into a series of national lockdowns. Case numbers spiked in Fall 2020, Spring 2021, and Summer 2021 with the Delta variant.

More than 130,000 people in the tourism sector lost jobs in France.

In June 2021, France reopened its borders to more countries outside of Europe with a color-coded system for entry requirements.

France State of Emergency ended in August 2022; France removed all Covid related restrictions for all travelers from any country. 

Over 90% of the population have been fully vaccinated.

For the current situation in Paris France, including: total COVID-19 positive cases; total cases in France; and COVID-19 testing in France, please see the French Department of Health site .

What should you pack for safely traveling in Paris France?

😷 Face Masks – Face coverings are recommended in crowded places. Find N95 masks at Bona Fide > or designer options at Vida >

💊 Medicine – Bring enough prescription and over-the-counter medication for your entire trip to avoid trips to the clinic.

💳 Vaccine Card Holder – Protect that paper CDC card when traveling abroad (if your country doesn’t offer a digital version). Get a simple plastic protector > or Vegan leather clippable > or Leather passport + card combo holder >

👃 Covid self-test – The most studied rapid antigen self-test with FDA emergency authorization.  NOT valid to enter countries. Use for your own peace of mind. Order from CVS > or Walmart >

💧 Sealed water bottle – Make sure your reusable water bottle has a lid that’s not exposed to the air. We use one of each of the following: Shop insulated water bottles with protective lid > Shop water bottles with purification filter and protective lid >

✈️ Travel insurance that covers Covid – We’ve started using Nomad Insurance by Safety Wing for affordable evacuation, international medical, and trip coverage.

What do Paris, France locals and recent travelers say about visiting Paris, France now?

What is it like to visit Paris, France right now? It’s our goal to provide regular updates here from real people on the ground, to help potential visitors know what to expect.

The following are subjective opinions only. Official travel guidance can be found above.

January 2024 – Agnes Groonwald of Travel on the Reg, resident of France:  “Tourism in Paris has seemed light since our move just outside of the city, but we also haven’t experienced the peak summer season yet. It’s still expected to book the big attractions (e.g. Louvre Museum) a few weeks ahead of travel, and dinner reservations remain a must at popular eateries.

September 2023 – Lauren of Pack and Paint, UK traveler:  “I caught the Eurostar from London to Paris for five days of sightseeing. Tourism in Paris is in full-swing post covid with adventurers from across the globe hitting up the French capital in their millions. Top tourist attractions such as the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre were busy which indicated a large tourism boom. 

In Paris, it felt like everyone had gone back to pre-covid times. Hardly anyone wore masks or followed social distancing. With large crowds at most tourist attractions, it would have been tough to follow covid related advice.”

June 2023 – Jori of The Tejana Abroad , expat:  “Summer in Europe is back and with it, all the usual summer crowds! Most attractions in Paris have opened up and are welcoming international visitors. If you’re still a bit wary of crowds after Covid though, maybe try to visit France during the lower seasons, such as fall and spring.

The majority of French citizens are vaccinated with booster shots, but the government is no longer testing international visitors. Healthcare in France is easy to access and if you fear you are infected, you are able to get tested at any nearby pharmacy. Local tourist attractions and restaurants are very crowded in the high season, but a nice alternative is ordering food to go and enjoying it in a picnic in the park.”

February 2023 – Laura Bronner of Eternal Expat , American traveler:  “I visited Paris for 4 days as part of a 10-day trip around France in February 2023. Paris feels completely back to normal. All museums and tourist attractions are back open with normal opening hours. The metro is clean and operating at normal and frequent times.

It was very busy when I visited in Feb 2023, especially at the biggest tourist sites like the Louvre, Eiffel Tower, and view points for these places. If you plan to visit in 2023, I highly recommend pre-booking tickets for the museums you want to go to with time slots and make sure to make reservations for restaurants you don’t want to miss, especially if you are traveling as a group of more than 2 people. If you don’t make a reservation, arrive at the time the restaurant opens for the best chance of getting a table for lunch or dinner service.

There is still easy access to testing at most pharmacies around Paris. You can definitely get the at-home tests at every pharmacy and many have testing centers outside the pharmacies which are conducted by pharmacists. There are no other restrictions on public transportation (no masks required, but they are “recommended” for public transport). There are lots of lines at museums and restaurants near the main attractions were incredibly busy.”

January 2023 – Amber Everywhere , American traveler: “Tourism seems to be back to normal in Paris, with large crowds in many of the most popular parts of the city. You’ll see masks and social distancing in some spaces, but most places are crowded and maskless. 

Testing appears to be widely available in Paris, with some visible testing tents throughout the city. There does not appear to be contact tracing in place, at least for crowded public spaces; locals did not mention any trouble accessing healthcare. Most local attractions appeared to be open, same with restaurants and other amenities. I didn’t notice any COVID-related restrictions, though many people chose to wear masks when in public areas (like the metro).”

September 2022 – Alyssa, American traveler: “We arrived in Paris with our two little kids, getting ready to caravan with some friends here in France. So far, I would say Paris is medium to low in terms of crowdedness. Public transit hasn’t been too packed. Everything is open and mask free for the most part.”

June 28, 2022 – Gretchen of Chasing Advntr , U.S. traveler : “We flew to Paris for several days as part of a month long European trip and to celebrate my twins birthday. We walked to all the major sites and while it was crowded, we had no trouble enjoying the attractions. We were glad we booked a river cruise and tickets to Musee D’Orsay in advance as tickets sold out for the river cruise and the museum line was at least an hour wait.

There were very few people wearing masks and maintaining social distance. Lines were long at the major attractions, but we never waited long for a table to eat. We also experienced a partial train strike which added to the difficulty of getting to the airport on already busy trains. Give yourself plenty of extra time to get to the airport.”

May 2022 – Mike C., American traveler: “Travel in Paris was pretty relaxed. There’s no more green pass or need to show vaccine card. Technically there were some rules on public transit to wear a mask. But it felt more like a choice as it was 50/50 on who did and didn’t. Transit was literally the only place with masking in Paris. Crowds felt like Paris is back to normal.”

March 9, 2022 – Erica of Nice French Things, French resident: “It’s the perfect time to visit Paris. Lines are short (or nonexistent) and monuments and tourist attractions are under capacity. Asian tourists have not returned yet and other Europeans are visiting their own countries they haven’t seen in the past 2 years.

Testing and tracing has been perfected here. Our vaccine pass will stop being required on Monday so we will be free to go to museums, theaters, restaurants without showing pass and we will not be required to wear masks. Pharmacies are the go-to for everything. Easy, fast, cheap tests done there. Paris area just reduced price permanently on regional rail tickets. Very advantageous for visitors.”

February 15, 2022 – Ingrid of Second Half Travels , U.S. traveler: “I’m spending 5 weeks in Paris and Montpellier currently studying French. COVID case numbers are dropping steeply in France. However, tourism numbers in February are still very low, so it’s a great time to visit to enjoy uncrowded museums and other sights.

My flight from Dallas to Paris in February was almost empty. I had a whole row of 9 seats to myself. Rapid and PCR tests are readily available at French pharmacies. It was easy and quick to get my Pass Vaccinal at an airport pharmacy when I arrived for 36 euros; I just showed my CDC vaccination proof of my vaccines and booster.

The Pass Vaccinal is supposed to be checked at all restaurants, museums, and long-distance trains. In practice, restaurants and trains sometimes fail to check. The Louvre and Musée d’Orsay in Paris were uncrowded: no large tour groups, only individual tourists from neighboring European countries like Spain. A Parisian friend told me, ‘You will never see Paris uncrowded like this again.’ I have actually extended my trip to add on more days in Paris to take advantage of this unique opportunity.”

October 23, 2021 – Jennifer A., American tourist: “ We had a fantastic time. We were very careful the entire week we were in Paris. Wore our masks everywhere and washed our hands a lot.  Instead of doing two or three things in a day, we just did one major tourist thing each day. To be honest, that made the trip more enjoyable. We used the Paris Museum Pass and that was great. I ordered the five day passes and they mailed them to me last month. A couple of the museums required us to book a time slot to get in. I was of course concerned about passing a COVID test 72 hours prior to returning to the U.S. My sister and I walked about 500 feet from our hotel to a pharmacy to take the COVID test. The cost was 25 Euros for each one of us. The gentleman in the pharmacy was so professional. We also received our results via email in about 30 minutes. Unbelievable. We were able to upload the COVID results to a VERIFLY app that American Airlines wanted us to use. It made things a lot easier to go home.  The French residents were all so nice to us. I am so glad we went.”

October 6, 2021 – Nick Winder, Illness To Ultra , American digital nomad: “I flew to Paris in order to transit to the south of France to visit family. Although there are still people visiting Paris, it’s obvious the tourist rates are reduced. Locals are more than welcoming, but the requirement of a health pass, even for foreign visitors proves challenge for both tourists, and local business owners. Nearly every local was compliant with city regulations, which is a must, especially considering public transport can still be busy. Access to testing and healthcare is abundant among pharmacies, although Sundays many pharmacies are closed. Most local attractions still remain open, although at a reduced capacity, but the reduced tourist level lines are not much of a problem. Just be aware that many attractions are ticketed.”

September 13, 2021 – Susan, US traveler: “ We’ve been in Paris almost 2 weeks finding it somewhat changed in several ways. We read that you can get the Passe Sanitiaire at pharmacies, yet, we’ve gone to more than I can count always being told that pharmacies are not providing them. At one yesterday, the owner said he believes that people were getting antigen tests at the pharmacy which gives a 72-hour Passe Sanitiaire. Tourists are few especially Americans. Some stores are permanently closed in touristy areas while nothing has changed in our neighborhood that is more residents of Paris.”

November 2021 – Roobens, French citizen in Paris, Been Around the Globe : “Everything reopened in May (bars, restaurants, gyms, clubs, etc.) in France. Meaning life is more or less back to normal. You just need to have a health pass to prove you’re fully vaccinated. And you have to wear a mask indoors (at the supermarket, when taking the metro, etc.). People are more than ready to travel in Europe only right now. Outside Europe it’s a different story since many borders are still closed. It’s very easy to get tested and to get vaccinated. There’s also an app for contact tracing, most people use it (it’s called “AntiCovid”). Everything is open (museums, restaurants, tourist attractions, etc.).”

September 2021 – Susan, traveling to Paris from US: “My husband and I flew to Paris in August-September 2021 for a 3 week visit with my daughter who lives there as a digital nomad. Tourists are very welcome if fully vaccinated. Major tourist attractions were uncrowded, though online ticket purchases are still recommended. Restaurants were full, especially the venues with large outdoor seating areas. (Travelers should be aware that diners frequently smoke in the outdoor areas.) Nevertheless, this may have been the best time in recent years to be in Paris, due to small crowd size.  Paris was very ready to serve customers in the time of Covid. The French population is >70% vaccinated and the digital vaccine passport works well for French residents (but not visitors). Visitors should bring their original vaccine card to get on the airplane, but a laminated photocopy worked well at every location.

A vaccine card (or proof of a negative Covid test within 72 hours) was required at every.single.sit-down eating establishment, hotel, museum, or major tourist destination. Proof was not required to ride public transportation.

Surgical (not cloth) masks are required in every indoor space. Indoor mask-wearing was being strictly followed, with an occasional scofflaw in the subways. Compliance was certainly better than most places in the US. Almost all restaurants had outdoor patio seating available, though the desirability of this may change as the weather cools. Take-out businesses and park-bench dining were thriving. I did not see evidence that contact tracing (in restaurants) was happening. There are Covid testing tents in most busy squares, but many are not accessible to non-residents because they don’t have the ability to charge the required fee there. Covid testing (required for return to the US, and elsewhere) can be done in pharmacies and labs. Your hotel desk may help you find a location. Caution – our results did not arrive via text, as promised, probably because we didn’t have a French phone number. We ended up waiting in a very slow line at the lab to get the results.”

August 30, 2021 – Melissa Suzuno , U.S. visitor: “I’m spending a week in Paris in late August/early September 2021 and my trip is just for fun but as a freelance writer, I’m also doing some work here.  I’m not sure if I’d really describe Parisians as “welcoming,” (haha) but tourism is alive and well in Paris. I did an Airbnb Experience and about half of the participants were French and half were American. The guide said that the number of Americans had decreased for a while but seems to be bouncing back. There are restrictions in place and they seem to be followed quite consistently. For example, you need to show your health pass (or recent negative COVID test) to eat in a restaurant (even outside) or enter a museum. Everywhere I’ve gone has enforced this. Local attractions like museums are open, but they recommend (and sometimes require) you to reserve your time in advance. I’ve gotten a few tests since I’ve been here (to get the temporary health pass). Tests are available in nearly any pharmacy and cost around 30 euros.”

June 2021 – Leyla, Offbeat France , French resident:  “I took a walking tour in the Marais a few days ago and we had one American tourist – the guide said it was her first of the season. Most tourists are French or European in Paris, but with the lockdown now lifted, a few Americans are beginning to arrive. In Paris, I’d say about 90% of people are following the rules. There is the occasional person who doesn’t cover their face in the subway or bus but they do get sideways looks from others. Everyone is masked in shops, because the owners will get fined otherwise. There’s usually plenty of gel at the door or at the cash register. In the streets, quite a few people still wear masks, considering that they are no longer mandatory. As the hot weather moves in, there will probably be fewer masks in the streets. The attached photo shows people do occasionally wear masks outdoors.”

June 2021 – Lena, Salut from Paris , French resident: “ Paris experienced a collective sigh in relief during the past weeks and enjoys the pure presence of normality – and travelers clearly belong to this normality.  Just a couple of weeks ago, the obligation to wear masks outdoors got lifted. Indoors, it is still mandatory and the vast majority is complying. Food services and attractions are open again. However, while the online booking service of attractions assures that the number of visitors is not exceeded, I observe often that bars and restaurants are way fuller than they should be. It is recommended in France that everyone, locals and travelers, are downloading the app #tousanticovid for tracing and alerts. If a visitor requires a covid test, they can easily get tested in pharmacies.”

May 2021 – Audrey, French Resident in Lyon: “Since May 19, the curfew is now starting at 9:00 pm. Restaurants (only outdoor dining), boutiques, movie theatres, museums… have re-opened, only accepting half of the possible guests (which means you need to book everything or wait long lines on the sidewalk). Travel between regions is fully allowed before curfew and after if you’re filing an exemption form (if your train or flight arrives at 9:30 pm for example). All French people over 50 are being vaccinated. Our next milestones are the following: – May 31: opening of vaccination to everyone – June 9: opening of indoor dining and more people allowed in boutiques and such. Of course, wearing a mask is still mandatory everywhere public, inside and out.”

Planning a trip to Paris France?

Check out our other Paris, France travel resources: – Preparing for a Budget Trip to France   – Where to Stay in Paris France: Best Neighborhoods Hotels Airbnbs – Travel Seasons: The Best Time to Visit Europe

If you have questions or updates about travel to Paris, France during the Coronavirus crisis or post-pandemic, please let us know in the comments below.

~ Pin this post for later or share with friends ~

Disclaimer: Please note, travel restrictions change frequently. Readers must take responsibility for verifying information through official sources like the State Department and CDC, in respect to their specific situations. No responsibility can be accepted by Intentional Travelers for action or inaction as a result of information provided through IntentionalTravelers.com. Any information provided here is issued as general information only.

Similar Posts

Should I reschedule my trip in 2022?

Should I cancel my 2022 trip? Should I reschedule my 2022 travel plans? Ever since we created our regularly-updated pandemic travel articles for certain destinations, I have received questions like these from readers again and again. In this post, I’ll share my answer – which applies regardless of the destination – as well as our…

Croatia travel requirements 2024: What travelers need to know

We aim to keep this post updated about Croatia travel in 2024 with official Croatia travel restrictions, requirements, and health and safety guidance. Our goal is to help you make informed decisions so you can travel confidently, safely, and responsibly in this new post-pandemic world of ours. We lived and worked from Croatia in winter…

Unofficial Guide to Cash, Credit Cards, and ATMs for International Travel

How much money should I bring when I travel? Should I exchange currency before I go overseas? What’s the best way to carry cash when I’m abroad? What ATM cards or credit cards are best for international travel? In this post, we’ve put together our best tips for money and travel. Note: These tips are…

Cat Ba Island – Lan Ha – HaLong Bay Cruise Review + Tips

What is the best value for your money and time on a HaLong Bay cruise? These are our tips and full HaLong Bay cruise review to help you make the best choice. In this post, we share what we learned from our experience on Venezia Cruises 3-day 2-night Lan Ha Bay itinerary and from extensive research…

Our Favorite Alternatives to Travel Wallets

When it comes to exploring new destinations, we all want to be worry-free and secure. While traditional hidden travel wallets have been the go-to solution, we find they leave much to be desired. The discomfort of hanging wallets around our necks or dealing with bulky waist options led us to look for alternatives. In our…

Oregon travel requirements 2024: What travelers need to know

We aim to keep this post updated about Oregon travel in 2024 with official Oregon travel restrictions, requirements, and health and safety guidance. Our goal is to help you make informed decisions so you can travel confidently, safely, and responsibly in this new post-pandemic world of ours. We are Oregonians so this destination is very…

38 Comments

https://www.euronews.com/2022/03/03/covid-in-europe-france-to-scrap-face-masks-and-vaccine-passes-on-14-march

Looks like things may be loosening up by March 14th hopefully

Michelle, I have seen articles with Forbes, euro news & Reuters on the vaccine pass getting scrapped by March 14th in Paris except for in hospitals and on public transportation. Do you have any knowledge of this? Thanks Wendy

Hi Wendy! Thank you for visiting our blog. That information is correct. The French Government has recently announced that effective March 14, the vaccine pass will not be required to enter most businesses such as restaurants, bars, cafes, ski lifts, museums, cinemas and other cultural venues and theme parks. However, proof of vaccination will still be required in hospitals, retirement homes, and health centers.

I am a fully vaccinated/boosted American who will be arriving in Brest, France for one day, May 10, on a cruise ship followed with a one day stop in LeHavre, France on May 12. I’m aware of the French Vaccine Pass but can’t find anything about what is needed for a cruise ship arrival. Any help you can provide will be greatly appreciated.

Hi Susan. The French government does not specify restrictions for cruise ship passengers, therefore, the current entry rules for air travelers may also apply to travelers who want to go ashore in French ports. I understand that you are fully vaccinated/boosted, which is already compliant to France’s entry rules (you can find the details in our blog). Your cruise ship operator may also have information regarding entry rules to France. We will update our blog if the French government releases information regarding cruise ship arrivals. I hope this helps.

I just received this from Eurostar “You are considered fully vaccinated for travel purposes if you are aged 18 and over and: *you received a COVID-19 vaccine booster*

*you received the second dose of a two-dose vaccine at least a week ago, but no more than nine months ago*

So the important word here is “OR”. Sounds like it’s just what you said Michelle…thank you so much!!!

Thanks for following up, Debbi!

The new booster requirement is very confusing to me. I’ve read other articles where it says, if you don’t get a booster “within 9 months of original vaccine” then you’re considered unvaccinated.

I’m hoping you or someone you know can confirm this. My vaccination dates are as follows: Moderna – 4/5/2021 Moderna – 5/3/2021 Moderna Booster – 2/12/2022

Traveling at the end of March 2022 – As of now, will I be considered fully vaccinated and allowed to enter France? Or did I get the booster too late?

Thank you. Your article is very helpful!

Hi Katherine. We acknowledge that this requirement has been confusing. The way the official rule was translated in English makes it sound like the booster must be done *within* a certain timeframe. However, an expiration like this would be highly impractical and, in fact, most reporting on the requirement say more clearly: “Travelers aged 18 and over who had their full vaccine course over 9 months ago and have not since received a COVID-19 vaccine booster must follow the rules for unvaccinated passengers to enter France.” We have been researching this closely and have not seen any evidence of travelers being denied for a “late” booster, nor does France ever mention needing a second booster. We are keeping a close eye on this and will share any updates as they become available.

Thank you so much for your reply! I will keep a close eye on your page for any other updates.

Hello Michelle,

I am confused about the new protocol in France re: vaccinations and boosters. If I had my 2 vaccinations last Feb and March 2021 and then my booster 6 months later, am I considered “fully vaccinated”? Also, my adult son had his 2 vaccinations, the second being May 6th. He has not yet had his booster. I am reading that there is a 9 month expiration of his initial vaccinations so as of Feb 6 (3 days ago) he can no longer be considered “fully vaccinated” even if he gets his booster immediately?

Debbi, I hear you. This particular requirement can certainly be confusing, not to mention constantly changing. The way France has written the booster rule (“no later than nine months following the injection of the last required dose”) makes it sound like the booster must be done *within* 9 months of the second dose to enter France (or soon to be 4 months for the vaccine pass to enter restaurants). However, an expiration like this seems highly impractical and, in fact, most reporting on the requirement say more clearly: “Travelers aged 18 and over who had their full vaccine course over 9 months ago and have not since received a COVID-19 vaccine booster must follow the rules for unvaccinated passengers to enter France.” This would indicate that your son can be considered fully vaccinated once he gets a booster, even if the booster is done after 9 months. I’m assuming it’s just a translation/wording problem because I have not seen anywhere that travelers with “late” booster doses would lose any chance of being considered fully vaccinated. We are keeping a close eye on this and will share any updates as they become available.

Boosters every 4 months??! Wow

Yes, it seems to be the case. Like so many protocols, though, it could very well change.

I have a trip planned to Paris March 18,2022. I am reading that everyone needs to have the booster shot after being vaccinated for 4 months or you will not get the Vaccine Pass. Do you know if this rule is also mandatory for people going to France from the US? Some articles I have read say it is mandatory and others say it is not. Do you happen to know?

Thanks for your question Susie. I think part of the confusion is that the rules have changed recently. The following update is directly from the French government website in regards to foreigners vaccinated outside of France: “Since the 15th of January 2022, people aged 18 years and 1 month or more and who completed their initial vaccination scheme more than 7 months ago will need to present a proof of a booster dose to be eligible to receive a vaccine equivalency health pass.” I’m not sure why this site does not list the change to a 4 month rule that reportedly goes into effect in February. Perhaps confirmation is still forthcoming.

I am fully vaccinated. I had my booster in Dec. of 2021. I am going to France in June 2022, 6 months after my booster. Do I need a second booster in order to get in the country, or the receive the Health Certificate to allow me into restaurants and museums?

Hi Rebecca. We acknowledge that this requirement has been confusing. The way the official rule was translated in English makes it sound like the booster must be done *within* a certain timeframe. However, an expiration like this would be highly impractical and, in fact, most reporting on the requirement say more clearly: “Travelers aged 18 and over who had their full vaccine course over 9 months ago and have not since received a COVID-19 vaccine booster must follow the rules for unvaccinated passengers to enter France.” We have been researching this closely and have not seen any evidence of travelers being denied for a “late” booster, nor does France ever mention needing a second booster at this time. If you are boosted, you meet the current requirements to enter France and to receive the vaccine certificate. We are keeping a close eye on this and will share any updates as they become available.

I am wanting to plan a trip to take my 14 yr old daughter to Paris the last week of March 2022 on her spring break. I am fully vaccinated, but she is not. She has lab proof of antibodies – also sadly I’m being treated for a blood clot from my Covid vaccine which leads to my hesitation to vaccinate her. All of that aside- I see the paragraph that says travelers ages 11-17 are considered vaccinated if traveling with a fully vaccinated parent (I understand we would both need negative Covid test as well) I have read multiple other sites and I’ve seen this same info but have also seen on other sites everyone 12 & older must be vaccinated unless they’re going to quarantine for 10 days. Do you know what the policy is on this as we do not have 10 days to quarantine. IF she is able to come & not quarantine what would we do to get her a health pass or QR code to enter tourist sites? These are questions I cannot seem to clear up & I want to be sure before I would plan this. I am willing to email or call to France if I had the appropriate number and email contact. I’ve already sent an email a week ago through a government site and still do not have a response. Thank you in advance for any help/info you may have.

Thank you for visiting our blog. Current France travel rules states that “The measures applicable to fully vaccinated adults will be extended under the same conditions to minors accompanying them, regardless of vaccination status.” Since you are vaccinated, your 14-year-old daughter will be treated as vaccinated as well and will not need to quarantine. A negative test is however required for all travelers aged 12 and over. You can check the U.S. Embassy in France or the France Diplomacy websites for more information.

Regarding the health pass, persons age 12-15 require a health pass everywhere a vaccine pass is required. You can obtain a vaccine pass (or a health pass for your daughter) from designated pharmacies in France for a fee of up to 36 Euros (approximately 41.18 USD). You can check here for the map of designated pharmacies in France. You can check our blog for more information about the health pass and regular updates about France’s travel requirements. Hope this helps.

Thank you for your reply. As far as the health pass goes for my 14 yr old daughter, since she is not vaccinated am I understanding that in order for her to obtain one from the French pharmacies she will have to pass a Covid test every 24 hrs. for a fee of 36 euros each time to keep it active in order to be admitted into restaurants, museums, etc.? I have clicked on the map of pharmacies to actually check with one but everything on that page is in French. I am just making sure I understand this. Thank you

Wendy, an unvaccinated 14 year old would need a test within 24 hours in order to enter restaurants, attractions, and long-distance travel. She would not need to test daily unless you are visiting places where the pass is required each day. Antigen tests are 25 euros (36 was for the vaccine equivalent, sorry for the confusion). Here is a more direct link to pharmacy testing location map, you just have to keep clicking to zoom in on Paris: https://www.sante.fr/cf/carte-depistage-covid.html

Excellent information! Merci! It is January in the US right now and we are planning our trip to Paris for mid April 20 22 very excited but also so concerned because of the omicron variant now. I will follow your blog and see if any new postings are out as January comes to an end I am getting ready to book our trip now. Thanks again so much.

Great blog! Thanks for sharing paris travel restrictions, really helpful content.

I am planning a trip to Paris September 22 through 29th with a one day bus trip to Normandy. I understand that since I have a CDC proof of vaccination I do not need a test to enter France. However I do need a Travel Pass which would be obtained at a Pharmacy. I had read that the French government was paying for tests in order for tourists to return to their country of origin but not sure that is correct. My main question, does this process of receiving the Travel Pass work “smooth” or could there be snags. Same question for the required Covid-19 test upon returning, are there ample Pharmacy and testing sites for tourists? Has anyone taken a survey of recent travelers? Thank you

Thanks for visiting our blog. The French health pass for non-EU citizens is still relatively new and the protocols for visitors in September don’t seem to be fully established yet. Official guidance can be found here . At the moment, visitors coming before August 18 are able to submit their proof of vaccination by email before arrival to get the pass (a QR code). In case it’s not processed in time, getting tested in France is a temporary “back-up” method, valid for 72 hours. I’ve also seen that some travelers have been able to show their CDC vaccine card at a pharmacy in Paris to receive a QR code within 15 minutes, but I’m not sure how common that is yet. We will continue to seek out on-the-ground reports from recent travelers to find out how it’s going, and we’ll regularly update this post as we learn more.

We are scheduled to arrive Paris September 7, cruise to Normandy from the 9th through 16th, spend two more days in Paris, returning to U.S. on the 18th. The CDC and State Department alerts say “do not travel” and also warn about demonstrations and violence in tourist areas of major cities. We are in our 70s, fully vaccinated, but also cancer survivors. Should we cancel our trip?

I understand your concern. It’s a question I’ve been getting a lot lately with all the uncertainty around Europe travel so I wrote an article about it here: https://intentionaltravelers.com/should-i-reschedule-my-trip/ There is no right answer, as it depends on your values and risk tolerance, so I can’t really make that call for you. Demonstrations in Paris are certainly an additional factor to consider. But just to give some perspective… I’ve never been to Paris when there *wasn’t* a demonstration going by on my Uncle’s street, although they can vary in intensity. Usually protest locations are known so they can be avoided. However, if potentially dealing with that sounds too stressful, it may be a reason to cancel. Being fully vaccinated makes a huge difference but even so, cruising and travel in France during the pandemic is not without risk. Does the benefit of this trip outweigh that risk? Will worry get in the way of your enjoyment? That’s up to you.

Is there an app to use to show proof of vaccine status for visitors from outside the EU?

Thanks for your question. The E.U. vaccine app is only available to citizens and residents of the EU so far. Whether this will eventually be made available for non-EU tourists to facilitate travel in Europe is not yet clear, but we’ll be sure to update our blog posts here if that changes.

I am a US citizen planning a trip from USA to London and then to Paris. Is there any rules for US citizen traveling to Paris, via London by train?

Good question. Traveling through some countries to France can complicate the requirements. Whereas the U.S. is on the “green list”, the U.K. is on the “amber list” for France and the rules for the UK would apply since that’s where you’ll be departing from to enter France. Fully vaccinated travelers can enter France without an essential reason and would need to present a recent negative Covid test and proof of vaccination status. More details can be found here: https://www.diplomatie.gouv.fr/en/coming-to-france/coronavirus-advice-for-foreign-nationals-in-france/#sommaire_1

Hi Michelle,

It looks like France is no longer requiring a negative PCR test for vaccinated travelers from “Green” countries (the US included).

Or is it? Later on that page it states “(if you are aged 11 years or older) you agree to submit to a virological RT-PCR test for SARS-CoV-2 upon arrival in France.”

What are your thoughts?

Hi Ben. Thank you for visiting our blog. It is correct that France is no longer requiring a negative PCR test for fully vaccinated travelers from the United States and other Green countries. If a traveler (aged 11 years or older) from Green countries is not fully vaccinated, then a negative PCR or antigen test is required. A negative PCR or antigen test is also required for allowed travelers coming from “Orange” and “Red” countries.

A quick update from France: Since May 19, the curfew is now starting at 9:00 pm. Restaurants (only outdoor dining), boutiques, movie theatres, museums… have re-opened, only accepting half of the possible guests (which means you need to book everything or wait long lines on the sidewalk). Travel between regions is fully allowed before curfew and after if you’re filing an exemption form (if your train or flight arrives at 9:30 pm for example). All French people over 50 are being vaccinated. Our next milestones are the following: – May 31: opening of vaccination to everyone – June 9: opening of indoor dining and more people allowed in boutiques and such. Of course, wearing a mask is still mandatory everywhere public, inside and out.

Hi! Thanks so much for sharing these updates from France!

I have friends in Paris and I’m thinking about going next month…. Will the restrictions ease by then?

Hello and thank you for visiting our blog. I understand your concern about your trip next month, though we don’t have any special insight as to when protocols might change, beyond what we’ve already shared in the article. We will do our best to keep updating this post as the situation progresses.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

France is open to Americans; Here's what it's like now and when to go

France reopened to international tourists , including vaccinated Americans, on Jun. 9, 2021. I covered the entry process last week and have been in France ever since, staying mostly in Paris.

I've gotten countless emails since publishing the entry article, most with one common theme: Is it worth visiting Paris right now? And the question makes sense since France has many coronavirus restrictions in place through the end of the month.

While I wish I could say that your Paris trip will look the same as in years past, that simply isn't the case. In fact, Paris isn't as open as many American cities like New York or Chicago . But, plenty of the city's charm is still there, and many of its strict lockdown measures have been eased.

Here, I'll discuss what you can do in Paris during the current phase of coronavirus restrictions.

Let's take a look!

For more TPG news delivered each morning to your inbox, sign up for our free daily newsletter .

Current COVID-19 restrictions in Paris

Let's start with the bad news: There are still some strict COVID-19 restrictions in effect in Paris (and France as a whole). Here's a closer look at what these restrictions are and how they can affect your Paris vacation.

There's an 11 p.m. curfew throughout France

One of the biggest drawbacks to visiting Paris (or France) right now is the 11 p.m. curfew. Everyone — including tourists — are required to be in their home or hotel room between 11 p.m. and 6 a.m. every day. There is a 135 euro fine for evading this curfew that's strictly enforced throughout Paris.

That said, don't fret if you have an early flight or train to catch. There are plenty of exceptions to the curfew and you can get an electronic exemption slip online.

Many restaurants in Paris are operating past 11 p.m. but without seating. You can order delivery from popular apps like Uber Eats and Deliveroo. Likewise, many hotels continue room service past the curfew, so you won't go hungry if you need dinner or want a midnight snack.

This curfew is expected to be lifted on June 20 if case counts continue to trend downward. So with that in mind, you might want to postpone your trip until next month if you're a night-owl.

Related: The 11 hotel breakfasts we'd order for every meal if we could

Most things operate at a reduced capacity

Now for the good news: Pretty much everything is open in Paris. That said, everything is open at a limited capacity, so you'll want to make reservations for restaurants and museums. Most museums have online reservations while restaurants usually require you to call in for a reservation, but I've had no issue walking into most cafes and bistros.

Related: 15 things to see and do on your first trip to Paris

You'll need a health pass for large events

The French government notes that a digital Health Pass is required for all large events in France. Generally, this is for events with more than 1,000 people. This includes open-air venues, theaters and stadiums, so you'll likely need this for concerts and sporting events when they restart.

You can download the TousAntiCOVID app from the App Store or Google Play to set up your pass. This pass shows vaccination status or a recent negative COVID test, but I haven't had any luck adding my CDC-issued vaccine card to the app yet. Thankfully I haven't needed a Health Pass thus far on the trip. If you need it for an event, you may need to get a negative COVID-19 test in France.

Related: Your guide to vaccine passports

Yes, masks are still required

Masks are still required in France. You must wear a mask at all indoor venues, including shops, cafes and restaurants. That said, you can take your mask off when eating or drinking. In practice, most locals aren't wearing masks once seated at any type of dining establishment.

Related: Masks still required during air travel as CDC loosens indoor mask guidelines for fully vaccinated people

Getting around Paris (and France)

Transportation in and around Paris (and France as a whole) is largely operating as normal. Here's my experience getting around the city.

The Paris Metro is running as normal

I've used the Paris Metro for the majority of my trips around town. It's operating as normal and on time. You'll find that many Metro cars are packed during peak times, so avoid rush hour if you're not into crowds. You can still purchase Metro tickets at all stations and take the RER train from Paris (CDG) to the city center.

Related: 10 things no one tells you about… Paris

National trains are still available

Headed to Nice, Bordeaux or another part of France after Paris? Don't fret — the SNCF is running trains all over the country. I took the train from Paris to Nice earlier this week and it was on time with zero issues. Just note that there are no blocked middle seats or other precautions taken, so you may want to rent a car or purchase a first-class ticket to avoid crowds.

Related: Tips for train travel and transportation in France

There's an Uber shortage, so download Bolt too

Like in many U.S. cities , there's an Uber shortage in Paris. Prices are high and it often takes 10+ minutes to find a ride if you're in the city center. I highly recommend downloading a European rideshare app like FreeNow or Bolt to use if you can't find an Uber. I've had good luck with Bolt and used it a couple of times during my trip.

Related: An Uber driver talks how to get the VIP treatment and be a better traveler in 2021

What you can do in Paris right now

Despite the restrictions, there is plenty to do in Paris. Here's a look at what you can do, see and eat in the French capital.

Restaurants, cafes, bars and bistros are open

Pretty much all dining establishments are open across Paris. They're allowed to be open at full capacity outdoors and half capacity indoors. Currently, bar seating is prohibited and there is a maximum of six guests per table.

I've noticed that all of these rules are under very limited enforcement, so your experience may vary depending on where you eat and drink. You'll find particularly large crowds at outdoor cafes on Friday nights after work. Midday crowds are about what they were pre-pandemic on cafe patios.

Related: 11 of the most Instagrammable cafés in Paris

Most museums are open, but you'll need a reservation

Museums are open, but with a capacity limit of one visitor per 4 square meters. You need to make a reservation for most museums on their website. I had no issue getting a ticket to the Louvre the weekend before my trip. That said, the Louvre had large crowds around premier exhibits like the Mona Lisa, but mask compliance was strictly enforced.

Unfortunately, some famous landmarks like Eiffel Tower remain closed until next month. You can still see them from the outside, but interior tours are still suspended. I'm hopeful that these will reopen on schedule so long as COVID-19 cases continue to trend downward in France.

Related: How to avoid soul-crushing crowds at the Louvre

Shops are operating as normal

Shops are operating as normal until the 11 p.m. curfew. This includes everything from designer clothes stores to the neighborhood grocery store. You'll have no problem getting your shopping fix in Paris.

Related: 8 hot shopping destinations in the world's most fashionable cities

The hotel experience is largely unchanged

One thing that hasn't changed is the hotel experience in Paris. I stayed at three different hotels during my time in the city and each had open dining facilities, housekeeping and everything you'd expect from a pre-pandemic hotel experience. Just make sure to wear a mask in common areas.

Unlike Iceland , French hotels aren't requiring proof of vaccination at check-in. All you need to do is show your passport and credit card, as usual. This means check-in is quick and easy and you don't have to rustle through your bag to find other paperwork.

Don't worry — you'll hear more about my Paris hotel experiences in two upcoming reviews .

Related: 10 of the best points hotels in France

COVID-19 testing in Paris

Another thing readers have asked me is where they can get a COVID-19 test in Paris in order to return to the U.S. Truthfully, I'm writing this while still in France, so I haven't been tested for my return yet. But I've done a bit of research and have a good understanding of how to get a test in Paris.

Either a PCR or rapid antigen test are acceptable types of tests for return to the U.S. In my experience, these tests are checked at flight check-in and not at the U.S. border. Your test must be less than 72 hours old to be considered valid.

Antigen tests are relatively easy to come by in Paris. I saw a testing booth set up outside of the Operá Metro stop last week, so you may want to check if you're staying at a nearby hotel (like the Park Hyatt Paris-Vendôme ).

You can also find antigen testing at most pharmacies around Paris and other French cities. Pricing varies, but shouldn't be more than roughly 30 euros for foreigners not covered by French health insurance.

Further, there are testing centers at both Paris-Charles de Gaulle (CDG) and Paris-Orly (ORY) airports. These offer both PCR and antigen tests, with one- to two-hour turnarounds for antigen tests. You may consider getting to the airport early and getting a test before your flight if you can't find a test in town. Check the Paris airport website for more info. An antigen test at the airport costs 20 euros.

Related: Traveling soon? Here's where you can quickly get a COVID-19 PCR test for travel

Bottom line

Traveling to Paris right now gives you a unique opportunity to see the French capital with few tourists. At the same time, the curfew makes it limiting for night-owls. Personally, I'd wait a week and go once some of the remaining restrictions have been lifted.

At the same time, those who decide to make the trip now will have no shortage of things to do and see both in Paris and outside of the city. The Louvre and other famous museums are open and Paris' famous cafes and bistros are waiting to serve you an espresso (or a glass of wine).

Regardless of current restrictions, it's great to see life in the streets of Paris after months of lockdown. I thoroughly enjoyed my time in the city and am excited to return later this year as a part of a larger European itinerary.

Bon voyage!

Feature photo by Andrew Kunesh / The Points Guy

Is Paris Safe in 2024 and Beyond? And Should You Travel to France Now?

Last Updated on April 23, 2024

Many travelers want to know whether Paris is still safe to visit– and their concerns are understandable. Following isolated terrorist attacks and occasionally-violent street demonstrations in recent years, as well as a global pandemic, worries about the safety of the French capital have become more common.

But the truth is that Paris generally remains a safe destination, and with some precautions in mind all visitors should feel comfortable traveling to the capital. Read on for the latest information on travel advisories and precautions to take when visiting France, and for my full safety tips for anyone planning a trip to Paris.

I start by covering some of the topics most likely to be on travelers’ minds, followed by more long-term safety issues and concerns. You can use the “Explore This Article” tab below to directly navigate to the information of most immediate interest and use to you.

Explore This Article

Current Safety Advisories for Paris & France

The US State Department currently shows a yellow, Level 2 travel warning for France, corresponding to the advice “Exercise increased caution” and citing risks including terrorism and potential civil unrest. See the full advisory here .

Traveling from another country? To see current safety advisories for your country of origin and specific safety tips from your Embassy or Consulate in France, see this page.

Statistically Speaking, Paris Remains Very Safe

The Economist-sponsored “Safe Cities” report for 2021 ranked Paris as the 23rd-safest major city in the world out of 60– making it almost exactly middling. And while the city has admittedly taken a significant knockdown in global city safety ratings due to recent terrorist attacks and other factors, violent crime is still generally uncommon in the capital.

OSAC, the US Bureau of Diplomatic Security,  notes tha t tourists are generally safe in the city, and that street crime such as pickpocketing remains the primary concern. These notes are particularly striking and paint a clearer picture of the sorts of crimes visitors need to be most on guard against:

According to the Violent Crime Risk Index (ViCRI), a resource for urban-level violence risk data and ratings, Paris ranks as a class 2 city on an 11-point index scale measuring homicide, aggravated assault, robbery, and rape risks. Street crime, however, is a concern, most notably in areas frequented by tourists. Consular officials throughout France report that U.S. travelers are frequently victims of pickpockets, swarm and grabs, or scams. (OSAC, France Country Security Report, available here )

To break it down a bit, Paris ranks a “2” on a scale reaching up to “11” when it comes to violent crime. Moreover, violent crimes rates in France are  roughly on par with Canada’s , and are three times lower than in the US.

According to French government statistics, even when taking into account deaths from terrorist attacks, the homicide rate in Paris per 1,000 inhabitants between 2015 and 2017 was only 0.019 (0.014 if you exclude the attacks).

You get my drift. Violent crime, and especially the sort that threatens lives, is relatively rare in Paris.  Gun violence there is astronomically lower than it is in comparably sized cities in the US.

And while the US State Department website advises that tourists remain aware of their surroundings and exercise caution due to potential terrorist threats, take note:  they don’t recommend cancelling your trip or avoiding the city.

My conclusion? Yes, there are some risks that can’t be denied.  Most large metropolitan cities, including London and New York, carry similar risks in our globalized world. Should you avoid setting foot in these places altogether?

Everyone has to make choices that they feel comfortable with, but from my perspective, you’d be greatly overestimating the dangers you face by doing so.

Pickpocketing is the Most Common Crime Affecting Tourists in Paris

I’ve talked about the unlikelihood of tourists becoming victims of violent crime in Paris. However, this doesn’t mean that you don’t risk being targeted for petty street crimes that can still make your trip a nightmare.

Pickpocketing is by far the biggest threat to visitors, so you should learn how thieves operate and take all the precautions necessary to avoid being targeted.

How to Avoid Pickpockets in Paris? 

Pickpockets operate in predictable and often highly organized ways, targeting tourists in crowded and popular areas. Often, they get away with your wallet or purse so quickly that you barely feel a thing. To keep this from happening, take these steps: In any crowded place (busy lines, congested metro cars, open spaces full of tourists snapping photos), take extra care with your belongings.

It’s best to carry a bag or purse that you can wear crisscrossed around your chest, with pockets and valuables hugged to your front and in plain view. If you wear a backpack, don’t leave wallets, cash, passports or other valuable items in the front compartments.

Only bring as much cash as you’ll likely need for the day, and maybe even less.  100 Euros or so is a good limit to aim for. Traveler’s checks can easily be exchanged for Euros at the American Express office on Rue Scribe (Metro: Opera).

If you must carry larger amounts of cash, consider wearing a money belt .

It’s always preferable to leave passports , large amounts of cash and other valuables in a hotel safe, if possible.

Never leave your bags or suitcases unattended , even for a minute or two. Not only do you run the risk of them being swiped up by thieves between two blinks of an eye: they can also be legally confiscated and destroyed by security forces, under current safety regulations in public spaces.

What About ATM Thefts and Other Scams? 

In addition to pickpockets, tourists are often targeted by scammers and thieves in other ways. ATMs/cashpoints are particularly vulnerable spots. Never allow anyone to linger nearby when you take out cash, and guard against prying eyes.

Never let anyone “help” you with a transaction at an ATM, or otherwise interfere with it. Ask the intrusive person to back off, and if they refuse, find another place to take out cash.

Around popular tourist attractions including the Sacre Coeur, the Louvre and the Eiffel Tower, merchants operating illegally are known to aggressively “persuade” tourists to buy their wares.

This often involves putting an object or trinket in your hand or inviting you to “try on” a bracelet.

{Our Top Tips for Avoiding Common Tourist Scams & Traps in Paris}

Once you give in, a demand for payment often follows. Avoid this by refusing all advances from such “vendors” and not allowing them to place any items in or on your hand.

General Safety Concerns: Putting Your Risks Into Perspective

With what seem to be frequent reports of violent incidents in the capital over the past few years, it can indeed feel scary to be a visitor these days. But there have been exaggerated accounts in some media outlets about the dangers tourists face when visiting Paris.

But in a modern world where there are many complex risks to weigh and negotiate all the time, it’s important to put those risks into perspective. It’s not about discounting potential danger. It’s about recognizing that life must go on– and that living in fear shrinks your world and its possibilities.

So before you cancel your trip or decide on another destination out of fear that you may be the victim of a terrorist attack or some other form of violent crime, read through my advice below.

As I’ve said elsewhere, Paris greatly depends on tourism to thrive as a city. It would be catastrophic to its livelihood to see too many people stay away and renounce all the capital has to offer out of a disproportionate sense of fear.

That said, staying informed about potential risks is an important part of feeling empowered as a traveler. Below are a few notes on recent incidents and safety concerns for tourists in the capital, with guidance on whether they warrant postponing or canceling your trip.

Covid-19 Cases & Deaths in France & Current Travel Safety Regulations

In France, according to updated  data from the French government , there have been over 40.1 million confirmed cases since January 2020.

As of 23 April, 2024, over 167,642 people have died from COVID-19 in France. Most patients were elderly and/or had pre-existing conditions. Please note that the government is no longer regularly offering updated statistics.

On August 1st, 2022, France lifted most Covid-related restrictions on travel and travelers . There are no longer any paperwork or formalities to complete to arrive in mainland or overseas France, and no Covid-19 certificates or proof of vaccination are required at this time, irrespective of country or area of origin.

However, should a dangerous variant become of major concern, France reserves the right to reinstate health measures such as vaccine certificates or passes for travelers from at-risk countries.

You can find updated information on current entry requirements and restrictions for France at this page on the France Diplomacy website . Please do consult that site in addition to this page for the most recent guidelines; while we do aim to update this page as frequently as possible, the regulations have been changing frequently.

“Gilet Jaune” (Yellow Vest) Protests & French Transport Strikes

Starting in late December 2018, smaller groups of “gilets jaunes” (yellow vest) protestors  staged demonstrations in Paris, almost exclusively on Saturdays. Some saw demonstrators throw rocks, burn cars and break store windows. But starting in late May 2019, the protests simmered out , in part due to a much heavier police presence.

Since late 2019, the protests have occurred sporadically and at a much smaller scale. They are not currently a concern for travelers to the capital or elsewhere in France. Even when civil unrest was at its peak in 2018 and 2019, it’s important to remember that tourists have not been injured or otherwise endangered by these protests.

Protecting Your Health in Paris

No one intends to get sick or suffer from an accident while traveling, but preparing for such unfortunate events will give you peace of mind and save you from outlandish medical costs.

Many international travel insurance policies cover up to millions of dollars in medical costs and liabilities, and can offer peace of mind.  You can compare and purchase travel insurance policies here (via World Nomads).

[World Nomads provides travel insurance for travelers in over 100 countries. As an affiliate, we receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads using the link above. We do not represent World Nomads. This is information only and not a recommendation to buy travel insurance.]

Emergency Numbers to Keep With You in France If you run into a medical or other emergency, call one of the toll-free numbers below from any phone, and contact your embassy. It’s wise to print out these numbers and keep them with you at all times: Medical Emergencies & Accidents: 15 Fire brigade: 18 Police: 17 SOS Médecins (on-call doctors): 01 47 07 77 77 SOS Dentaire (dentists): 01 43 37 51 00 SOS burns: 01 58 41 41 41

Note that in most cases, calling “15” is the best thing to do in a medical emergency. If you have been the victim of a violent crime or other crime, it will be necessary to both inform the French police and to file a report with your embassy.

If you need a pharmacy in Paris, identify them by their green flashing crosses. Most neighborhoods in the city have at least one pharmacy within a few blocks’ radius. These pharmacies are open late or 24 hours a day , in case you need to seek advice from a pharmacist or purchase medical supplies late at night.

This can especially be useful to know if you’re traveling with a young baby or toddler, since young ones sometimes require quick treatment, and pharmacists are often able to provide expert advice or recommend and sell over-the-counter medications that you can’t buy directly off the shelves.

Safety for Pedestrians in Paris 

While Paris is generally a very pedestrian-friendly city– the local government has been working to increase the number of car-free zones around the capital in recent years– drivers can be aggressive, posing a danger to walkers.

My advice? Take a defensive approach when crossing streets and busy intersections, checking for cars even when the light is green and/or when you have the right of way.

In areas that appear to be pedestrian-only, watch out for cars and aggressive motorcylists: some areas that are “car-“free” still allow motorcyclists, service vehicles and cyclists.

What About Driving in Paris? 

I generally advise against trying to drive in central Paris. Parisian drivers can be aggressive and unpredictable (by many standards), and traffic conditions are often congested and unpleasant.

If you have to drive, your international driver’s license and insurance must be up to date. Also make sure you understand the local rules of the road.

And unless you’re used to European traffic circles, you should avoid, at all costs, driving around busy traffic circles such as the one at the Place de l’Etoile on the Avenue des Champs-Elysées.

If you do opt to take a taxi, whether within the city or to the airport and back, make sure you only use reputable companies. Never accept a ride from a taxi that doesn’t have an official “Taxi Parisien” sign atop its roof and a visible meter inside. You may be overcharged or otherwise scammed, if you do…

Read related : How to Use Airport Taxis in Paris (& Avoid Getting Overcharged)

Why to Register & Keep in Touch With Your Embassy

It’s always wise to register with your embassy ahead of your trip and to keep their contact details with you at all times.

In the event that your passport is lost or stolen, you experience a medical emergency or a crime, or are in the city at the time of a dangerous event, registering will ensure that you’ll be able to get in touch more quickly with your embassy and to receive help from them. This is a good list of world embassies and their contact details. 

Once at your embassy’s site, read through any relevant travel advisories for Paris and France and find out how to register as a citizen traveling abroad before your trip.

Are There Dangerous Places to Avoid in Paris?

I wish I could argue that Paris is entirely safe in all circumstances, but sadly, there are a few places that you’d probably be best off avoiding at night, especially for women and solo travelers.

Gangs are known to operate in some of these areas, and hate crimes have been reported around them in the past.

Take special caution late at night around the following metro stops and surrounding areas (and perhaps avoid altogether when traveling alone after dark) : Chatelet les Halles, Les Halles, Pigalle, Couronnes, Belleville, Place des Fetes, Porte de St Ouen, Porte de Clichy, Gare du Nord, Stalingrad, Jaures, and Crimée. Please note that this is not a definitive list: you should probably be cautious in all areas of the city after nightfall, or when crowds disperse.

Also note that this is NOT a list of so-called “no-go” zones in Paris. From my perspective (and it’s one shared by most locals), these simply don’t exist within the city limits.

All 20 arrondissements in Paris (city districts) are generally safe , as long as you take some precautions in the areas mentioned above, and do so everywhere at night. Remember, “posh” areas can be remarkably empty after dark, so paradoxically you may be more vulnerable in these.

Unfortunately, I also advise against traveling to the Northern suburbs of Paris after nightfall.  Violent crimes and hate crimes are more frequent in these areas, as is gang activity.

It pains me to advise this as I don’t wish to stigmatize any communities or places, but from a standpoint of tourist safety, these areas are probably best avoided at night.

Advice For Women, LGBTQ+ and Minority Travelers

While Paris is generally a tolerant and diverse place that is welcoming to people of all colors, creeds, sexual orientations and gender expressions, there are occasional cases of harassment or even assault.

Women , especially when traveling alone or in small groups, should take extra care at night, especially when alone. Avoid places with poor lighting and few people roaming the streets. Safety is in numbers.

Also, be aware that French men sometimes read smiles or extended eye contact as permission to flirt or make sexual advances. With strangers, it’s best to assume a neutral stance that clearly says “I’m not interested”.

If a man makes unwelcome or aggressive advances in the street or in other public places, firmly say “non”, refrain from smiling, and walk away. Call the police if you are followed or the harassment continues, and retreat to a public cafe or other crowded place if necessary.

People of color generally have nothing to fear in Paris, a city with remarkable ethnic diversity. Nevertheless, hate crimes are not unheard of.

If you are a victim of an attack that you feel is racially motivated, report it to the police, your embassy, and if necessary to French watchdog SOS Racisme: + 33 (0)1 40 35 36 55

Gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender and non-binary visitors are generally safe and welcomed in the capital, which harbors a large and vibrant LGBT community. That said, there has sadly been a spike in reports of homophobic attacks in Paris over the past couple of years, and in the areas I mention above as being potentially less safe after dark, it is advisable to be extra cautious.

Read this guide for more tips on staying safe, including for LGBT couples. If you are attacked, report it to the police and to your embassy, and state clearly if you believe the attack was a hate crime.

Related: How to Celebrate LGBT Pride Month in Paris? 

Advice for Jewish and Muslim Travelers

Jewish visitors may have read that Paris has become unsafe for them. It can’t be denied that antisemitic attacks have been on the rise in recent years, with targets including synagogues, places of business and Jewish individuals.

Sadly, from 2018 such attacks are reported to have risen sharply . And from 2023, they have unfortunately skyrocketed in France , against the backdrop of the Israel-Gaza conflict that broke out in October 2023. As a result, it pains me to say that visitors should take extra precautions at this time.

These attacks have been met with increased police protection of Jewish schools, places of worship and other sites important to the Jewish community.

While safety concerns are warranted, I want to stress that Paris has one of the largest Jewish communities in the world: one with a deep history that’s very much part of the cultural fabric of the city.

The vibe is generally welcoming and you shouldn’t fear visiting the city. It’s also important to know that there have been no recent reports of attacks against tourists of Jewish faith (nor am I aware of any to have occured in recent history). Nevertheless, it’s probably a good idea to take some precautions, particularly in the areas I mention above.

While I regret advising it, it may be best, late at night and in the aforementioned areas, to remove visibly religious symbols and clothing items. Always report it to the police and to your embassy if you are a victim of an antisemitic attack. SOS Racisme can also help.

Muslim visitors may also fear attacks from Islamophobic individuals . Since 2015, there has been, according to numerous organizations, a sharp rise in attacks on Muslim places of worship and individuals.

Tourists of Muslim faith should not fear visiting the capital, however. Again, there is a large community here and most people are welcoming.

As always, though, if you experience harassment or violence make sure to report it to the police, your embassy, and perhaps to SOS Racisme: (+ 33 (0)1 40 35 36 55).

While attacks on tourists of Muslim faith are exceedingly rare, it is important for victims to be heard, have their experience accounted for, and to seek the help they need.

*Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you book products or services though this site, it comes at no cost to you, but will help fund more free, in-depth content here at Paris Unlocked. Thank you. 

Courtney Traub is the Founder and Editor of Paris Unlocked. She’s a longtime Paris resident who now divides her time (as well as she can manage) between the French capital and Norwich, UK. Co-author of the 2012 Michelin Green Guide to Northern France & the Paris Region, she has been interviewed as an expert on Paris and France by the BBC, Australian Broadcasting Corporation, Le Figaro, Matador Network and other publications. Courtney has also written and reported stories for media outlets including Radio France Internationale, The Christian Science Monitor, Women’s Wear Daily and The Associated Press. In addition to going down various rabbit holes of curiosity when it comes to French culture, history, food and art, Courtney is a scholar of literature and cultural history whose essays and reviews have appeared in various forums.

11 thoughts on “ Is Paris Safe in 2024 and Beyond? And Should You Travel to France Now? ”

can one travel a few days bw 16-23 dec 2019, flying from paris to nice, then flying back to paris without too much trouble or expense?

Yes, that’s entirely feasible. The flight is only about an hour long and many low-cost carriers offer very good fares if you book in advance. Check Easyjet, Iberia, and even Air France for sales on that route. Bon voyage!

This is positive news. Thanks for the update. Hopes are high that things return to normalcy soon. I love to travel to France during the summer, and I think it will be easier by then. I do go through travel blogs to understand the precautions we need to take enough steps to travel safely.

Considering that I want to travel to Europe one day this really helps me. Who doesn’t want to save money especially when you’re already on a trip. Thanks for the tips.

The topic of this blog is a question in my heart right now. I am eager to know this since I am getting bored at my home. Finally I came to an answer that yes it is safe to travel to France now. I will know find the list of best places to visit in France and after that I will start the process of online France Visa UK so that I can get it one time for my travelling with my kids and family.

I am from Singapore and am considering visiting France with my wife and 2 toddlers (ages 2 and 4) at the end of this year 2021 for Christmas. Thought it would be nice to let me kids experience a winter Christmas for a change. However I am concerned with how French people or Parisians view Asian tourists. Do they stigmatise them given how COVID-19 has been dubbed the “China virus” in the US? And are there any safe distancing measures in place for restaurants or museums in France (e.g. dine in no more than 2 pax at a table etc)? Are there any other pointers I should be aware of if we want to explore visiting beyond Paris to other parts of France during December? Thanks!

Hi Eric, thanks for reading and for your comment. While prejudice does sadly exist in Paris/France, tourists are very rarely the subject of attacks and harassment, and you can be rest assured that with some sensible precautions, you will feel safe and secure traveling there. I do understand your anxiety, but please know that Paris in particular is an incredibly diverse, cosmopolitan city, and again, as long as you follow some essential safety tips and guidelines , you have nothing to fear.

As to your second question, yes, there are currently safety measures in France to prevent the spread of coronavirus. “Health passes”, or vaccine passports, are required to enter most public spaces (or visitors must show proof of negative tests). Masks are also still required in all indoor public spaces including public transportation, shops, museums etc. You’ll find all the relevant, updated info in the link above.

Have a wonderful, safe trip, and thanks again for reading! –Courtney

This article is so helpful and thank you for your time in writing this. I am from the US and traveling to Paris with my boyfriend February 2022. We both are fully vaccinated and may get booster shots if recommended to travel Paris. However, friends are telling me that France might go in lockdown again. What are your thoughts?

So glad to know you’ve found this helpful, Jessica. I wish I could predict what might happen next, but the Omicron variant of the virus is a real wild card. I don’t think anyone knows what might happen in the coming weeks and months in terms of travel restrictions. If you’re not comfortable with the uncertainty of that, I do recommend delaying your trip. Typically, since the pandemic began winter and spring have proven tough, with a reprieve in late spring through early fall. Perhaps if at all possible it would be best to try to reschedule your trip for that period? All the best!

My husband and I are visiting France in late March/early April 2022, spending time in Paris, Bordeaux, and the Dordogne. Your site has been so helpful as we plan our trip. We are both fully vaccinated against COVID and received our boosters in mid-October. As I understand the current vaccine pass requirements, we are okay to travel to France (we’ll need to get the vaccine pass either before we leave or when we arrive). Is that right? Thanks for your help.

I’m sorry to bother you as I know you yourself asked a question you would like answered….my husband and I are traveling to Paris late May. We are fully vaccinated and boosted, what is the “vaccine pass” you are referring to? Thank you in advance for your reply

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Explore Topics

Recent posts.

• Paris’ South Pigalle District: Exploring Rue des Martyrs & Beyond
• Best Food Markets in Paris: Produce, People-Watching & More
• Best Cheese Shops in Paris: Our Favorite Fromageries
• Accessibility in Paris: Our Full Guide to Getting Around
• Privacy Policy

Paris Unlocked

Everything You Need to Know About Planning a Trip to Paris This Summer

M ore than 15 million visitors are expected to travel to Paris during the 2024 Summer Olympics , which will take place from July 26 to August 11. But as the world's attention turns to the City of Light, even non-Olympic related trips to France may feel the ripple effects of the games over the next few months.

“Paris is always popular for the summer, but this July, it’s attracting even more interest—and it’s not just Paris that is seeing the Olympics effect,” says a spokesperson at Expedia, whose data shows a triple-digit increase in searches for surrounding cities like Yvelines, in the western part of Île-de-France, whose views are up a whopping 520%.

This year, page views for listings on Airbnb have been 11 times higher than last year for French cities hosting competitions, such as Nice , home to the Olympic football tournament; Versailles , host of the Olympic and Paralympic competitions; Colombes, in the suburbs of Paris, where the hockey competitions will be held at the Yves-du-Manoir stadium; and the town of Ile-Saint-Denis, which will host part of the Olympic and Paralympic village.

Whether you're planning an Olympics trip or trying to avoid the crowds, here's everything you need to know about traveling to France this summer with tips and insight from experts on how and when to travel to Paris before, during, and after the 2024 Olympics.

When is the best time to book flights to France this summer?

This summer, fares to Europe are 10 to 12% lower than last year, and major airlines like Air France , JetBlue , and Delta have increased the number of nonstop flights to cities like Paris. “This could make Europe overall a more approachable option in 2024, but Paris may be the exception, since airfare typically surges when there’s a marquee event,” says Sean Cudahy, an aviation reporter for The Points Guy. “The airfare surge likely won't be as dramatic as we saw for Las Vegas during the Super Bowl this past winter—which spiked hundreds of percentage points over normal levels—since the Olympics is a more drawn-out event, but don’t expect a bargain, either.”

Round-trip airfare from many US cities surrounding the time of the Olympics is currently in the $700 to $900 range, but a spokesperson at Expedia says booking 30 to 60 days out is “the sweet spot for international flights,” with savings around 15%.

Paris-based, affordable long-haul airline French Bee —the only nonstop carrier flying into Orly from the US—recently increased flights from Newark to Paris to once a day (from mid-May to mid-September, that amount will jump to 10 times per week) and the number of flights on routes from Los Angeles and San Francisco will be upped to six times a week during peak summer travel.

If you plan to hop to a few Olympic Games host destinations throughout France, such as Marseille or Lyon, French Bee’s Train + Air partnership with SNCF (the French railways) combines itineraries and guarantees a spot on board the next available flight or train at no extra charge if there's a delay.

Where should I stay in Paris?

“While we are now just under 100 days to the Opening Ceremony, the timing can actually work in our favor,” says Nick Cunningham, France expert and Scott Dunn’s destination manager for Europe. “When tickets and hotel accommodations first went on sale, pricing was exorbitant and many top hotels imposed a large minimum stay—some requiring 14 to 18 nights—but now many of our partners and other top properties have reduced those minimum stays to five to seven nights.”

Hotels like boutique J.K. Place Paris , in the landmark-heavy Latin Quarter, has seen booking patterns shift, with travelers making reservations only one to two weeks before their trip, “a stark contrast from the previous years when bookings were made well in advance,” says general manager Riccardo Ortogni.

The best dates to get a Paris deal this summer are the weeks leading up to the Games, when hotels are only 20% full, or the night of the Closing Ceremony, when occupancy is at its lowest during the Olympics. And while luxury hotel brands like Four Seasons and Park Hyatt are forecasted to jump 9% in rates during the Olympics, rooms at Hyatt Regency , Hilton , or Marriott properties are expected to skyrocket nearly 73% in price, according to the real estate database CoStar.

How will I get around Paris?

Paris will be closing several major metro stations in the lead-up to the Olympics, including the Concorde, Tuileries, and Champs-Elysées-Clemenceau. France's Ministry of Transportation has set up a website mapping out road restrictions and public transportation closures and delays, with the option to sign up for local flash alerts .

As Paris transforms landmarks like the Champ-de-Mars, Eiffel Tower, and Trocadéro into competition sites, these areas will also restrict traffic, bicycles, and pedestrians so temporary spectator stands and makeshift stadiums can be installed. (Transport apps like Citymapper will offer the latest traffic updates in real-time, plus Olympic-specific features.)

Place de la Concorde has already halted traffic to prepare for sports like skateboarding, BMX, and 3x3 basketball, and bridges along the Seine like Pont d’Iéna, Pont de l’Alma, and Pont du Carrousel will close in early July. Don’t worry—if you’re planning a river cruise on the Seine , you can hop on a boat up until five days before the Opening Ceremony.

Will Parisians stay for the Olympics?

The question floating around Paris now in the months leading up to the Games: Who is staying in town during the Olympics?

While international travelers flock to the City of Light for the olympics, many Parisians are booking domestic trips to escape the crowds during the games, instead heading to destinations like Lille, Nice, Corsica, Lyon, and Toulouse, data from the travel marketing platform Sojern found.

According to Air France, residents have tended to leave town during past editions of the Games, and despite selling 23% more seats in 2024 compared to this period last year (bookings also continue to rise as summer approaches), the airline says the event has deterred some travelers. Business-class-only La Compagnie , which offers year-round direct flights between New York and Paris and seasonal routes to Nice, has seen bookings to Paris for summer 2024 slump—whereas flights to Nice are up 14%.

“Many Parisians have already rented out their homes and opted to escape the city during those few weeks, so for travelers expecting to experience the usual summer joie de vivre in Paris, it will likely not be the case in Paris for this period of time,” says Cunningham, adding that sightseeing will also be a challenge since sporting events will be scattered across the city.

Catherine Down , a Paris-based food and travel writer and culinary tour guide, won’t be running tours during the Olympics since the logistics will be too challenging. “It’s hard to know what we can truly offer at the level and quality we’re used to,” she says.

Other locals are worried about getting around Paris during the Games and the chaos that comes with an event of this scale held in one of the most-visited cities in the world. But the unknown about what Paris will be like during the Games isn’t necessarily a bad thing. “I have two separate groups of friends in London who debated leaving during the 2012 Summer Olympics because they heard the same dire reports about what the situation would be like during the Games,” says Down. “But then they stayed and had the time of their lives."

France Travel Restrictions

Traveler's COVID-19 vaccination status

Traveling from the United States to France

Open for vaccinated visitors

COVID-19 testing

Not required

Not required for vaccinated visitors

Restaurants

Not required in enclosed environments and public transportation.

France entry details and exceptions

Ready to travel, find flights to france, find stays in france, explore more countries on travel restrictions map, destinations you can travel to now, dominican republic, netherlands, philippines, puerto rico, switzerland, united arab emirates, united kingdom, know when to go.

Sign up for email alerts as countries begin to open - choose the destinations you're interested in so you're in the know.

Can I travel to France from the United States?

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter France.

Can I travel to France if I am vaccinated?

Fully vaccinated visitors from the United States can enter France without restrictions.

Can I travel to France without being vaccinated?

Unvaccinated visitors from the United States can enter France without restrictions.

Do I need a COVID test to enter France?

Visitors from the United States are not required to present a negative COVID-19 PCR test or antigen result upon entering France.

Can I travel to France without quarantine?

Travelers from the United States are not required to quarantine.

Do I need to wear a mask in France?

Mask usage in France is not required in enclosed environments and public transportation.

Are the restaurants and bars open in France?

Restaurants in France are open. Bars in France are .

Accessibility Links

Is it safe to visit Paris? Latest France travel advice

A terror attack took place in the french capital on december 2, with one person killed and two injured. here’s the latest foreign office travel advice.

A n attacker killed one person and injured at least two others in the Bir-Hakeim-Grenelle area of Paris, close to the Eiffel Tower, on the evening of Saturday, December 2. The suspect was arrested and the French authorities advised people to avoid the area, where there was a heavy police presence. This follows a terror attack in the town of Arras on Friday, October 13, after which the country raised its national threat level to Emergency Attack Level — the highest. This threat level is described as “maximum vigilance and protection in the event of an imminent threat of a terrorist act or in the immediate aftermath of an attack”. Here’s what you need to know if you’re travelling to Paris soon.

Main photo: the Pont des Arts in Paris (Getty Images)

What’s the latest on the attacks in Paris?

A 26-year-old man has been arrested and anti-terrorism prosecutors have started an investigation into the attack. Anti-terrorism prosecutor Jean-Francois Ricard said the suspect had pledged allegiance to Islamic State in a video recorded before the attacks took place. The victim is a German tourist who worked as a nurse and the two other injured were a French man in his sixties and a 66-year-old British tourist, who was hit in the eye with a hammer.

Is it safe to travel to Paris right now?

The Foreign Office does not warn against travelling to Paris and the safety advice is the same as for the rest of France — be vigilant in public places, stay alert and follow the advice of local authorities.

• Best Airbnbs in Paris • Best hotels in Paris for families

Advertisement

What’s the latest government advice about travelling to France?

The Foreign Office has warned that, given the heightened threat level, evacuations of crowded places may take place. These can include airports, public transport stations and stops, tourist sites, major sports venues, schools, places of worship, and large commercial centres.

The likelihood of a terror attack in France is also considered very high, with shopping centres, entertainment venues, cultural events, public transport and places of worship the most likely targets. Previous terror incidents have included knife attacks, shootings, bombings and vehicle attacks.

There’s no specific advice for those who might be transiting through France, for example at the airport or via Eurostar, but delays may be possible at border control due to increased checks. If you’re driving, there shouldn’t be any delays once you get into France as it operates an open border with its EU neighbours.

Additional reporting by Lucy Perrin

• Best affordable hotels in Paris • Best boutique hotels in Paris

Sign up for the Times Travel Newsletter here .

Related articles

4 Days in Paris: Locals Share How Best to Experience the City of Light

Linger in historic public squares or opulent mansions, and indulge in multicourse meals or spas fit for royalty during a long weekend in the city..

• Copy Link copied

Spend part of your long weekend in Paris indulging in some of the city’s best cafes, like Breizh Cafe.

Photo By Romain Buisson

Whether it’s the haute couture, the Michelin-starred meals, the soaring Haussmanian architecture, or the fascinating history—you could move to Paris and still be surprised and delighted by all it has to offer. I know: I did. I called it home for nearly 10 years and throughout that time fielded inquiries left and right to the tune of “Where should I stay?” and “What should we eat?” from friends, their mother’s accountant, or their friend’s sister’s boss.

The advice I always start with? Let Paris come to you. In other words: Choose your own adventure. Don’t force yourself to wait in line at the Louvre if you’re not into Renaissance art. Don’t plan your day around the hottest table in town if the word “gastronomy” means nothing to you. (Though, if you’re going to broaden your horizons, this is the place to do it .)

With 20 arrondissements, over 400 parks and gardens, more than 2,000 museums and monuments, and a sprawling metro system connecting it all, there’s truly something for everyone in this storied city—whether that’s Monet’s water lilies at the Musée d’Orsay or Shepard Fairey’s mural behind the Pompidou.

If you’re into tours, plan around availability then leave room for spontaneity, disco naps, and extra eclairs. This four-day itinerary is purposely laid out over weekdays and the weekend to accommodate the city’s notoriously fussy opening and closing schedules. Profitez-bien —enjoy!

Thursday: Neighborhood strolls, craft coffee, and sweets

Shake off your jet lag with a mini caffeine and croissant crawl. First, grab a coffee from the closest Noir , a newer chain in the city whose pink-forward cafés are proliferating faster than it takes to froth a cappuccino—and that’s a good thing. (The coffee is top-quality and the atmosphere feels fresh.) Then, head for the Canal Saint-Martin where some of the best bakeries frame this bohemian enclave of the 10th arrondissement: Get a creamy €1 choux pastry from Mamiche , a seasonal-flavored pinwheel from Du Pain et Des Idées, or something more exotic from Liberté .

Cross through Place de la République, a large square featuring a central monument of Marianne (France’s post-Revolution personification) and the city’s hub for protests, parades, and other public events, for the Upper Marais. Weekdays are less crowded than weekends for shopping for French-designed brands such as Veja (vegan sneakers), Maison Labiche (embroidered hoodies), and Oh My Cream! (serums, oils, and gels—oh my!).

Next, stop into the Picasso Museum , which is inside a former hôtel particulier , or mansion, and features some 5,000 pieces by the Spanish painter who spent 60 years in France. That may sound like a lot of art to view before you’ve unpacked or had a shower, but since the space is quite digestible it’s a perfect first foray into culture.

By now, you’re surely ready for a “petite pause” or a snack, which the French call “goûter.” This generally occurs around 4 p.m. when kids get out school. If the weather is nice, find the Places des Vosges, the oldest square in Paris, and sit in the sun on the grass or snag one of the benches to read or people-watch. You have a few nearby options depending on whether you want savory or sweet, grab-and-go or sit-down: I’m partial to the chou farci (stuffed cabbage) pita sandwich at Miznon a bit further west, which to be fair is more of a meal. But if you’re still after sweets and want that quintessential French café experience, head to Carette. You’ll likely have to wait for a seat outside, but inside is just as alluring—and where all the locals sit, according to Jane Bertch, owner of La Cuisine Paris cooking school and author of the forthcoming memoir The French Ingredient . “Try the Chausson aux Pommes with its unique baguette shape,” she suggests.

Hôtel de la Marine is a Versailles-like experience without having to take the RER or an Uber all the way to the former palace.

Andrei Antipov/Shutterstock

Friday: A day of mansions, passages, and fine dining

Skip the urge to sleep in, and let your first full day begin with a self-guided tour of Hôtel de la Marine . (Yes, another “hotel” that’s not a hotel.) Thanks to cool GPS-enabled headphones, you can DIY through room after room of 18th-century French opulence. (Originally it was the home of the Garde-Meuble, the office that managed all royal properties—including Versailles—and Marie Antoinette had an apartment here when visiting the capital.)

From here, you’re positioned well for a walk through the Tuileries Garden up to the Louvre. You could go into the massive structure, originally built in the late 12th century as a fortress, to say “Bonjour” to Mesdames Mona and de Milo. But you’ll wait in line for ages if you didn’t prebook tickets. (Better yet: Go on a private tour with a company like Context Travel .) Maybe seeing I.M. Pei’s pyramid outside is enough, though, and you pop over to the less-crowded Palais-Royale instead. The covered arcades are lined with sweet shops, cafés, and restaurants, and the manicured gardens are full of roses in spring and summer.

For lunch, try the popular Le Nemours or the less-known Cafe Mar’Co. Both are vibe-first recommendations that offer more of a see-and-be-seen meal (as opposed to high-class cuisine) most beloved by fashion folk. I personally prefer a long, leisurely lunch that highlights seasonal, local ingredients courtesy of ever-changing tasting menus, and a midday meal is ideal for diving into one at a more digestible price than at dinner. You’ll have to commit to at least three hours and book ahead, but impressive, centrally located lunch options for modern takes on French food include Granite , Substance , and the recently restored La Tour d’Argent .

Take your food coma for a walk through some of the city’s covered, 19th-century passages, originally constructed to shelter the affluent during their walks on rainy days. “They’re full of curiosities,” says Maelle Tardif, concierge of Maison Proust , a boutique hotel in the Marias designed like the salons of the Belle Époque. “These historical gems are full of tea rooms and antique shops for an assured journey back in time,” she says. “Gallerie de Vivienne and Passage de Panoroma have boutiques for collectors of old books and postcards.”

The Musée de Montmartre was founded in 1960.

Vlasyuk Inna/Shutterstock

Saturday: Movie-like meandering and pharmacy shopping

Today, you’ll tackle two quintessential Paris neighborhoods, both of which appeared in popular films. First up? Amelie’s Paris in Montmartre. This hilly quarter, which locals call “the butte,” will eventually lead you to the highest point in the city. Get lost in the twists and turns of the area’s crooked cobblestone streets where you may run into a mini vineyard, one of two remaining windmills, and the most charming, under-appreciated museum in Paris: the Musée de Montmartre . Area local and owner of gallery-tour company the Seen , Alexandra Weinress, says, “It’s tucked away from the tourist masses that tend to flock to the Sacré Coeur and focuses on the history of the neighborhood as the capital of bohemian life in Paris and artists like Renoir who lived there. The gardens are beautiful, too, and offer a welcome respite from the bustling city.”

Slowly wind your way down, perhaps pausing at the Hôtel Rouchechoart on the boulevard for a rooftop cocktail served with the best 360-degree views of the capital. Now, hop on line 12 to cross the river underground into the heart of Saint-Germain-des-Prés. This is Woody Allen’s Paris, and where much of his 2011 film Midnight in Paris takes place. Then visit the Panthéon where the likes of Victor Hugo and Marie Curie are buried. (From April through October, climb the 206 steps to the rooftop for a panoramic view of the city.)

No visit to Paris would be complete without popping into one of its many pharmacies, and nearby on Rue du Four is the Holy Grail for French remedies, toiletries, and more: Citypharma . “You can’t go to Paris and not stock up on skincare essentials!” says Melanie Masarin, founder of the nonalcoholic aperitif Ghia , which just made its debut in the Marais concept shop Merci . “They carry every brand, often at great discounts. The Skinceuticals Vitamin C and all the products from Avene are so much more affordable there. It’s like the Ikea of French pharmacies!”

For dinner, book a table at Les Arlots in the 10th arrondissement for “the most gourmand and sincere food in Paris,” says Julien Pham, restaurateur and owner of Phamily First agency. He also recommends La Chope des Artistes restaurant and Chop Chop bar in the ninth. “It’s where young creatives and the talented people of Paris gather every night,” he says.

Some vendors peel the likes of clementines and slice up mangoes to be tasted, while others sell food to be eaten on-site, such as oysters or hot crêpes filled with nutella or comté cheese.

Photo By lembi/Shutterstock

Sunday: A local market, relaxing like royalty, and sipping in style

For your final full day, start with a walk through the market at the foot of the Bastille monument in the 11th arrondissement. Each area has a “marché” that’s open on specific days of the week, but Sundays at the Marché Bastille really is “its own ecosystem,” says Bertch. The earlier you arrive the better for interactions with sellers. “You get a sense of these not just being a place to buy produce, but they are the heart of each neighborhood,” she says. Take in the sights and sounds, she urges, and sample, sample, sample.

Many shops and restaurants are closed on Sundays, so it’s a great opportunity to take a break yourself by splurging on self-care at the Ritz Club and Spa in Place Vendôme. Bring a book, maybe some headphones, and stay awhile: Whether or not you get a treatment, there’s also a gym, saunas and steam rooms, and an indoor pool surrounded by plush electric loungers from which you can order drinks and snacks.

Don’t overload it in heaven, though. Instead, shower for a final nuit à Paris cocktail at the Rosewood Hôtel de Crillion’s Les Ambassadeurs . This dark and sultry high-ceilinged salon is open to guests and nonguests. With its frescoes, gilded moldings, and chandeliers of chains, it’s the swankiest spot for a tipple in town. Finally, make your way to the Israeli restaurant Kapara for a late dinner. The former and beloved Balagan, which reopened in November 2023 under a new name, retains its original vibe by serving a veritable feast in a party-like atmosphere thanks to the new female chef whose Iraqi and Moroccan heritage adds a new level of spice to match the free shots sent around the room.

Luxury hotel Le Grand Mazarin is located in the Marais district.

Where to stay

Paris has no shortage of excellent hotels . Two of my personal favorites are Le Grand Mazarin and HOY, the former for its whimsical, art-driven decor including an underground pool and inner courtyard that are covered in frescoes and the latter if you’re looking for a dose of wellness with your sightseeing. (There’s an on-site yoga studio and a terrific vegan restaurant.)

Cookies on GOV.UK

We use some essential cookies to make this website work.

We’d like to set additional cookies to understand how you use GOV.UK, remember your settings and improve government services.

We also use cookies set by other sites to help us deliver content from their services.

You have accepted additional cookies. You can change your cookie settings at any time.

You have rejected additional cookies. You can change your cookie settings at any time.

• Passports, travel and living abroad
• Travel abroad
• Foreign travel advice

Warnings and insurance

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) provides advice about risks of travel to help British nationals make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice .

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide as well as support for British nationals abroad which includes:

• advice on preparing for travel abroad and reducing risks
• information for women, LGBT and disabled travellers

Follow and contact FCDO travel on Twitter , Facebook and Instagram . You can also sign up to get email notifications when this advice is updated.

Travel insurance

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance . Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

Related content

Is this page useful.

• Yes this page is useful
• No this page is not useful

Help us improve GOV.UK

Don’t include personal or financial information like your National Insurance number or credit card details.

To help us improve GOV.UK, we’d like to know more about your visit today. We’ll send you a link to a feedback form. It will take only 2 minutes to fill in. Don’t worry we won’t send you spam or share your email address with anyone.

Search Smartraveller

Latest update

Exercise a high degree of caution in France due to the threat of terrorism.

France (PDF 452 KB)

Europe (PDF 2.62 MB)

Local emergency contacts

Fire and rescue services, medical emergencies.

Call 15 for COVID-19-related assistance.

Advice levels

Exercise a high degree of caution in France.

Exercise a high degree of caution in France due to the threat of terrorism

• France's national terrorist alert warning is at the highest level. (in French). Expect high-levels of security nationwide, including at schools, places of worship, shopping centres and landmarks. 
• There's a risk of terrorist attacks in France. Be cautious around locations known to be targets. Attacks could be indiscriminate and could occur anywhere without warning. There have been several attacks in France in recent years
• Crime such as theft, including passport theft, pickpocketing, bag snatching, burglaries and muggings, are common, particularly in summer. Groups of thieves also operate on public transport, including busy metro lines and trains to/from the airports. Take care to protect your belongings on public transport, in crowded tourist areas and at landmarks. 
• Strikes are frequent across France. When they occur, expect demonstrations and significant disruptions, which usually affect public transport and other public services. Some result in clashes with police, resulting in the use of tear gas and arrests. Avoid demonstrations and areas with significant police activity.

Full travel advice: Safety

• Get comprehensive travel insurance before you leave. There are no reciprocal healthcare agreements between France and Australia.
• The standard of medical care is high.

Full travel advice: Health

• Always carry a photo ID, such as your passport. Police conduct random checks, particularly at borders.
• You must stop to help if you witness an accident or someone asks for help. Report all accidents to emergency services. If you fail to help,  you could be charged  unless assisting will risk your or others' safety.
• Covering your face in public places or forcing someone else to is illegal.
• Be careful when taking photos. It's illegal to photograph security forces, including the police.

Full travel advice: Local laws

If you plan to travel to France to commemorate Anzac Day, understand the risks and plan ahead. Read our ' Travel overseas for Anzac Day'  page for further information on attending the event.

• France is part of the  Schengen area , meaning you can enter without a visa in some cases. In other situations, you'll need a visa. Contact the nearest embassy or consulate of France for the latest entry and exit conditions.
• The  France-Visas website  can help determine if you need a visa to enter or transit France. 

Full travel advice: Travel

Local contacts

• The  Consular Services Charter  details what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.
• For consular help, contact the  Australian Embassy in Paris .
• To stay up to date with local information, follow the embassy's social media accounts.

Full travel advice: Local contacts

Full advice

Following a terrorist attack in Russia on 23 March, France has raised its national terror alert warning to the highest level. Expect high-level security measures to be in place throughout the country, including schools, places of worship, shopping centres and landmarks. Be aware of your surroundings, monitor local media, and follow the advice of local authorities. 

Attacks can occur at any time. Methods of attack have included knife attacks, shootings, bombings, and vehicle attacks.

There have been several attacks in France in recent years, including in:

• places of worship
• shopping areas
• tourist sites
• transportation hubs
• major events which attract large crowds

Be cautious around locations known to be possible terrorist targets.

Authorities have additional powers to deal with counter-terrorism security. In some public areas, they may:

• restrict access
• search your bags and vehicle

Expect increased security checks at borders, including ID checks, which may cause delays.

To reduce your risks:

• be alert to possible threats, especially in public places
• report anything suspicious to the police
• monitor the news for any new threats
• take official warnings seriously
• follow the instructions of local authorities

In the event of an attack, leave the area as soon as it's safe to do so.

The French Government has published advice about  how to respond to a terrorist attack .

Follow these Twitter accounts for advice (in French) during major security incidents:

• @Gendarmerie
• @PoliceNationale
• @prefpolice

Terrorism is a threat worldwide.

More information:

Civil unrest and political tension

Strikes are frequent across France. When they occur, expect  demonstrations  and significant disruptions, which usually affect public transport and other public services.

Some lead to clashes with police, resulting in the use of tear gas and arrests. Avoid demonstrations and areas with significant police activity. 

To reduce risks:

• avoid protests and demonstrations, and exercise caution if you're caught up in large gatherings/protests
• remain vigilant, especially at night
• monitor local media and other sources for news on possible unrest
• follow the advice of local authorities
• Demonstrations and civil unrest
• SNCF Trains  
• Paris Metro and Buses

Crimes such as passport theft, pickpocketing, burglaries and bag and phone snatching are common in summer. Groups of thieves also operate on public transport, including busy metro lines that service tourist attractions and trains to/from the airports. 

Take care to protect your belongings on public transport, in crowded tourist areas and at landmarks. Some examples of common targets include (but are not limited to):

• Airports (including Charles de Gaulle International Airport)
• Hotel lobbies
• Outside of hotels and well-known short-stay accommodations
• Restaurants and cafes, especially when sitting on the terrace.

Criminals use children to distract tourists or even play an active role in theft.

Violent theft is less common but may also occur on public transport or around major tourist attractions. These attacks have occurred on or around:

• Gare du Nord train station
• The train from CDG Airport to Gare du Nord train station.
• Metro lines in Paris, including lines 1, 2 and 6
• RER (regional) train lines linking Paris and its suburbs
• major tourist attractions (including, but not limited to, the Eiffel Tower area, the Champs-Elysées, the Louvre, the Palais Royal areas, the Les Halles district, and the Latin Quarter)

To protect yourself from theft:

• avoid walking in quiet and poorly lit streets, especially at night
• keep luggage and valuables out of sight
• use ATMs in secure locations such as banks and shopping centres
• keep your ATM and credit cards in your sight
• monitor local sources for information about possible safety or security risks

Vehicle break-ins

Vehicle crime includes bag snatching from cars (including while driving, stopped or stuck in traffic), including on the highway between CDG Airport and Paris city centre, and theft and break-ins from unattended vehicles. Rental vehicles are often targets, even in small towns.

To protect yourself:

• never leave valuables in your car
• keep bags and luggage concealed and/or stored in the boot
• keep your vehicle locked at all times, including when driving
• use secure parking facilities, especially overnight
• be alert at isolated automated service stations
• beware of any person who waves at you to stop on the highway
• avoid sleeping in rest areas beside autoroutes (motorways) and major roads
• avoid sleeping in makeshift or unauthorised campgrounds on the outskirts of cities

Domestic Violence

French authorities have introduced emergency phone numbers for victims of domestic violence. In an emergency, call the police (dial 17) or a 24/7  specialised hotline  (dial 3919) to call for help.

Scams and fraud

Credit card and ATM fraud involving 'skimming' machines that can store card data can occur. Automated service stations and tourist areas are often targets for this.

Be wary of strangers who invite you for a free drink or show at a private club. Foreigners have had large amounts of money stolen from their credit cards before being allowed to leave.

Be cautious when booking travel. Use reputable travel providers only. Avoid giving your personal details to unknown sources. There have been reports of identity theft through accommodation scams.

Avoid common scams around tourist areas. These are often groups of petty criminals targeting foreigners and tourists.

Cyber security  

You may be at risk of cyber-based threats during overseas travel to any country. Digital identity theft is a growing concern. Your devices and personal data can be compromised, especially if you're connecting to Wi-Fi, using or connecting to shared or public computers, or Bluetooth. 

Social media can also be risky in destinations where there are social or political tensions or laws that may seem unreasonable by Australian standards. Travellers have been arrested for things they have said on social media. Don't comment on local or political events on your social media. 

More information:  

• Cyber security when travelling overseas  

Swimming safety

The beaches along the French Atlantic coast can be dangerous, especially on the south-western coast. Several people drown every year.

Swim at supervised beaches and follow the  colour-coded flags  that warn against dangerous swimming conditions.

If in doubt, seek local advice.

Climate and natural disasters

France experiences  natural disasters  and  severe weather , including:

• forest fires

If you're in an area affected by a natural disaster or severe weather:

• keep in touch with friends and family
• monitor local media

Avalanches and mudslides

Avalanches and mudslides can happen in some mountain areas. Several people have died in recent years.

If you're skiing or mountaineering:

• monitor advice on weather and safety conditions
• don't move off marked slopes or trails

In some areas, authorities may arrest or prosecute you if you ski or mountaineer off marked trails.

Forest fires

Forest and grass fires often occur during the summer months. You can track active fires on the EU's  European Forest Fire Information System .

The French government also provides a forest fire tracker on  Météo des forêts  (in French).

Flash flooding can make road travel extremely difficult. People have lost their lives due to flooding.

Disruptions to communication infrastructure may occur.

• Floods and fires

Travel insurance

Get comprehensive  travel insurance  before you leave. There's no reciprocal healthcare agreement between France and Australia.

Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation. The Australian Government won't pay for these costs.

If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are.

If you're not insured, you may have to pay thousands of dollars up-front for medical care.

• what activities and care your policy covers
• that your insurance covers you for the whole time you'll be away

Physical and mental health

Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition. 

See your doctor or travel clinic to:

• have a basic health check-up
• ask if your travel plans may affect your health
• plan any vaccinations you need

Do this at least 8 weeks before you leave.

If you have immediate concerns for your welfare or the welfare of another Australian, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your  nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate  to discuss counselling hotlines and services available in your location .

• General health advice
• Healthy holiday tips  (Healthdirect Australia)

Medications

Not all medications available over the counter or by prescription in Australia are available in other countries. Some may even be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.

If you plan to bring medication, check if it's legal in France. Take enough legal medication for your trip.

Carry a copy of your prescription or a letter from your doctor stating:

• what the medication is 
• your required dosage 
• that it's for personal use 
• Consulate-General of France in Sydney

Health risks

Insect-borne diseases.

Although uncommon, the  West Nile virus (WNV)  has occurred in France. There's no vaccine for it.

To reduce your risk of disease:

• make sure your accommodation is insect-proof
• use insect repellent
• wear long, loose, light-coloured clothing

Measles cases can routinely occur in France, with the country currently experiencing increased measles activity. Make sure your vaccinations are up-to-date before you travel.

• Infectious diseases

Medical care

The standard of medical facilities is similar to Australia.

Before they treat you, hospitals usually need the following:

• a guarantee of payment
• a copy of your medical insurance
• an up-front deposit

Costs for public hospital stays can reach thousands of dollars, depending on the treatment you need.

You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that may appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling.

If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our  Consular Services Charter . But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.

Penalties for drug offences are severe. If you're convicted, you can get a long jail sentence.

• Carrying or using drugs

You must always carry a photo ID, such as your passport or driver's licence. Police conduct random checks, particularly at borders.

It's  illegal not to offer help to a person in danger . Authorities may charge you if you:

• don't stop after you witness a motor accident
• don't report an accident to emergency services
• ignore pleas for help or urgent assistance

Any assistance shouldn't put you or anyone else in danger. For example, if there's a fire, you're not expected to leap into the flames to save someone. Notifying authorities (dial 112) would be sufficient.

Penalties for not assisting can carry a fine of up to 100,000 euros and up to 7 years imprisonment. Tourists aren't exempt.

Forcing someone to hide their face is a crime in France. It's punishable by a year in prison and a fine of up to 30,000 euros. The sentence doubles if the person forced to hide their face is a minor. 

It's illegal to photograph security forces, including the police. Penalties may include authorities detaining you and taking your film or camera.

Flying drones is prohibited in Paris. Prohibitions also exist in other locations in France. Check with local authorities

Australian laws

Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you're overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.

Staying within the law and respecting customs

Dual nationality

France recognises dual nationality.

Australians should use their Australian passport when exiting or entering Australia. This includes dual nationals.

If you're a dual national and have a passport from another country, you may choose to travel on your other passport once outside Australia.

• Dual nationals
• Travel document requirements

Visas and border measures

Every country or territory decides who can enter or leave through its borders. For specific information about the evidence you'll need to enter a foreign destination, check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination you're entering. 

France is part of the  Schengen area , meaning you can enter France without a visa in some cases. In other situations, you'll need a visa.

France Diplomacy provides a  comprehensive FAQ  for foreigners wishing to visit France and an  online tool  to assess what visa you need. 

Make sure you:

• Apply for your visa in Australia if you need one. You can't apply for a visa or change your status once you're in French territory. For example, you can't change from a tourist visa to a student or resident visa while in France.
• carry your passport when you cross borders, including within the  Schengen area
• check border conditions with local sources and transport providers

You may still need a visa to transit. 

Other formalities

Unaccompanied minors (under 18 years of age) who normally live in France and want to leave French territory need:

• their own identity document
• a copy of a parent or guardian's identification
• a completed form issued by the French Ministry of Interior

More information

• French Ministry of the Interior (French) .

Some airlines won't let you board, and some countries won't let you enter unless your passport is valid for 6 months after you plan to leave that country. This can apply even if you're just transiting or stopping over.

Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.

You can end up stranded if your passport is not valid for more than 6 months. Check your passport's expiry date before you travel.

The Australian Government does not set these rules. If you're not sure it'll be valid long enough, consider getting  a new passport .

Lost or stolen passport

Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.

Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.

If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible:

• In Australia, contact the  Australian Passport Information Service .
• If you're overseas, contact the nearest  Australian embassy or consulate .

Also, go to the nearest Commissariat de Police (police station) to:

• report the crime
• get a declaration of theft

Doing this could assist any insurance claims.

Passport with 'X' gender identifier 

Although Australian passports comply with international standards for sex and gender, we can't guarantee that a passport showing 'X' in the sex field will be accepted for entry or transit by another country. Contact the nearest  embassy, high commission or consulate of your destination  before you arrive at the border to confirm if authorities will accept passports with 'X' gender markers. 

More information:   

• LGBTI travellers  

The currency in France is the Euro.

France is a member of the European Union (EU). If you travel between France and any non-EU country, you must declare over 10,000 euros (or equivalent) cash. This covers all forms of currency, not only cash.

If you don't declare or give the wrong information on entry or exit, you'll need to pay a fine.

You don't need to declare cash if you're travelling to or from another EU country.

Local travel

Driving permit.

You'll need a valid Australian driver's licence to drive in France.

Car rental companies may also need an International Driving Permit (IDP). Get your IDP before you leave Australia. You cannot apply for this while overseas.

If you live in France, you can swap your Australian driver's licence for a French licence. You must do this within your first 12 months.

• Driving or riding

Road travel

Unless otherwise signposted, drivers must give way to vehicles approaching from:

• the right at intersections

This is the 'priority of the right' system. Understand this system so you avoid road accidents.

Be cautious when you drive or travel as a passenger. Keep your doors locked, even when moving. Lock your vehicle when you leave it.

The speed limit in most city centres is 30km/hr. 

There are penalties for breaking traffic rules. These may include:

• immediate loss of your licence and vehicle
• on-the-spot fines

All vehicles must carry a reflective vest and warning triangle for use during a breakdown.

The minimum driving age is 18 years.

Motorcycles

Check if your insurance policy covers you when using a motorbike, quad bike or similar vehicle.

Always wear a helmet.

Only use licensed official metered taxis. Licensed taxis have the sign 'Taxi Parisien' on the top of the car in Paris.

Assaults  and robberies have happened in unlicensed taxis. These taxis often target high-traffic destinations such as:

• train stations

Private car companies are legal, but you need to pre-book them.

Public transport

Organised strikes happen often. These may affect transport systems, including trains and airline traffic. Monitor the media and contact your travel provider for the latest details. See  Safety

If you use public transport, keep your ticket until you exit the system. Inspectors conduct random checks. You'll get an on-the-spot fine if you don't have a valid ticket.

Maintenance work on public transport is often carried out over the summer months, which requires metro lines to be shut down. In Paris, check the  RATP site .

• Transport and getting around safely

DFAT doesn't provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.

Check  France's air safety profile  with the Aviation Safety Network.

Emergencies

Depending on what you need, contact your:

• family and friends
• travel agent
• insurance provider

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

Call 3919 for victims of domestic violence.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

Consular contacts

Read the Consular Services Charter for what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.

For consular help, contact the Australian Embassy in France.

Australian Embassy, France

4 Rue Jean Rey,

75015 Paris, France

Phone: (+33 1) 4059 3300

E-mail: [email protected]

Website: france.embassy.gov.au

Facebook:  L'Australie en France

X: AusAmbFR

Check the Embassy website for details about opening hours and any temporary closures.

Visitors must pass a security screening. Don't bring luggage with you.

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

• +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
• 1300 555 135 in Australia

Travelling to France?

Subscribe to get the latest travel advice updates..

Be the first to know official government advice when travelling.

Paris by Car: Parking, Crit’Air & Tolls – Local Driver Tips

Salut from Paris is supported by its audience. When you purchase through links on this site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Learn more

Do you plan to drive to Paris by car: it is a tempting option, especially if you are living in one of the neighboring regions. Just load up your car and within 5 or 6 hours, find yourself standing beneath the Eiffel Tower.

And surprisingly, a car journey to Paris is often even quicker and more cost-effective than traveling to Paris by train or plane. Just think of the waiting time at the airport!

But as tempting it might be to travel to Paris by car, as a local Parisian driver with years of experience, I have to tell you the truth: Driving in Paris certainly comes with its challenges.

And it even comes with extra costs that you probably haven’t thought of yet. But don’t worry, I have you covered.

Salut, I am Lena – travel planning expert and parisienne since 2006 🩷

In this article, I will shed light on everything that matters when you are driving to Paris with your car. And this includes:

• speed limits
• highway tolls
• anti pollution measurements
• paying fines (hopefully not necessary, though)

Especially if this is your first time navigating Paris by car, it’s likely to find yourself at least once in a tricky situation, where you’re not sure what to do.

Or worse: faced with a ‘prune’ —a ticket, in French.

But that doesn’t have to be the case or worrying. In this article, I’ve compiled all the information you need to make driving in Paris a breeze.

CHECKLIST for your Paris Trip

✔ Hotel booked?

• Budget: Hotel France Albion (8.6)
• Midrange: Hôtel des Arts (9.6)
• Upscale: Millésime Hôtel (9.2)
• Luxury: La Demeure Montaigne (9.1)
• My Favorite: Hôtel Monte Cristo

✔ Tickets booked?

• Eiffel Tower ( book here )
• Paris City Pass ( book here )
• Louvre ( book here )
• Arc de Triomphe ( book here )
• Hop On Hop Off Bus ( book here )

🎁🎁 Exclusive 5% off on Seine Cruises – BOOK HERE with our code SALUT5 🎁🎁

Paris Survival Tips

• Buy your SIM card in advance
• Get a Travel Adapter
• Book your airport transfer
• Download the free survival guide

Fun Activities

• Explore the Covered Arcades
• Discover the quaint Bookstores
• Find Paris Hidden Cocktail Bars
• Take an easy Day Trip by train

#1 Crit’Air: Anti-pollution vehicle sticker

First things first: To drive your car in Paris, you’ll need an anti pollution sticker called Crit’Air .

Essentially, this sticker categorizes your car into one of the existing 6 categories, determining whether you’re allowed to enter a specific zone. Here, it’s important to note that not all of France falls under an environmental zone.

But more and more regions and cities are implementing this system to fight pollution.

Within the Paris zone, only vehicles categorized as Crit’Air 1, Crit’Air 2, and Crit’Air 3 are permitted. On days with particularly high air pollution, even owners of Crit’Air 3 vehicles might be required to leave their cars parked.

Remember : For Paris, your car needs to qualify at least for the Crit’Air 3 sticker.

Order the Crit’Air sticker: Easy!

There is only one way of getting your hands on the Crit’Air: order it here online . It’s a fairly simple procedure, that you have to take care of in advance.

The vignette costs €4.76 (2024), including postage, and it must be visibly stuck to the windshield. If caught without the sticker, you risk a fine of at least €68.

You might also be interested in these articles:

• Parking in Paris: Here’s to Avoid Fines & Stress
• 9 Paris Apps You Need to Download Before Traveling
• Paris Essentials: Top 10 Picks and Their Unique Alternatives

#2 Traffic Rules in Paris

Of course, you’re familiar with traffic rules, no doubt. Yet, Parisian traffic has a few peculiarities you need to be mindful of.

In the following chapter, I am telling you more about speed limits, the right of way in Paris and why you should not drive on the right lane of the Périphérique.

Speed Limits in Paris

Speed limits are an ongoing discussion and usually, when one new rule is in place, they are already discussing the next. Currently (2024), the following limitations are in place:

Speed limits in the city center

Since August 2021, the general speed limit in Paris is 30 km/h. There are a few larger roads, though, where 50 km/h is the limit.

This applies mainly to the Boulevards de Maréchaux, which runs as an inside ring road parallel to the Boulevard Périphérique. But also to the Champs-Élysées and the Voie Georges Pompidou, the road along the Seine.

But to be honest and in case of doubt, I mostly drive 30 km/h. It’s the safest way to avoid fines. And in most cases, you can’t go much faster anywhere due to high traffic.

Speed limits on the Périphérique

On the Boulevard Périphérique, the ring road encircling Paris, is a freeway of a total length of 35 km.

The speed limit on this is currently 70 km/h. However, from September 2024 it will be lowered to 50 km/h. I strongly advise adhering to this limit .

The Police conduct very frequent and thorough checks, and they don’t hesitate to send your fine to your address. Even if you’re from abroad in France.

Paris by Car: Right of Way

Of course, the simple right-of-way rule applies in Paris as well. In many other cities, streets are often signposted, and one can generally assume that the driver on the main road has priority.

However, it’s not the case in Paris, and it actually took me years to get used to it.

Most streets in Paris without traffic lights lack priority signs. This means, it’s ALWAYS right of way for the vehicle on the right , regardless of the size of the street you’re on.

Keep in mind that many streets in Paris are quite narrow and often not very visible. Therefore, always ensure you watch out and yield to traffic coming from the right.

#3 Boulevard Périphérique: The Ring Road

Feared by many who drive to Paris: the ‘périf.’ As you already know, this Parisian ring road is essentially a 35 km long freeway where the speed limit is 70 km/h. And where you mostly will experience traffic jams.

The ring provides connections to all highways leading to Paris. So, if you’re driving to Paris by car, you’ll inevitably encounter the Périphérique.

There are essentially 2 things you need to pay attention to:

• Traffic merging onto the ring road ALWAYS has the right of way. So, if you’re on the far-right lane, you must yield to merging vehicles. Potentially braking or even stopping. If I don’t need to exit immediately, I usually move to the second lane immediately.
• Motorcycles and scooters might overtake you from both the right and left sides, seemingly appearing out of nowhere, so don’t be startled.

Another thing to watch out for, but that is not super important, is that you drive onto the ring in the right direction.

Wait, how can that not be super essential, you ask? Because first, your navigation system in your car will show you the way, and 2nd because worst case, you drive a bit longer. It’s a circle, after all.

Anyway, what I mean is, that the Périphérique goes both east and west. But is mostly labelled as périphérique exterieur (outer ring, traffic goes clockwise) and péripherique intérieur (inner ring, traffic goes counterclockwise).

It’s important not to stress out. Parisian drivers can be quite aggressive, but they also tend to forget and forgive quickly. If someone gives you a rude gesture, they’ve typically forgotten all about you by the next traffic light.

#4 Parking in Paris

Must Read: My comprehensive Parking in Paris Guide here

If you’re driving to Paris, I strongly recommend that you arrange a safe parking spot in the city before your trip.

To make it short, your best option is to book a hotel with parking .

Simply, because street parking is utterly expensive and difficult to find. Plus, you are not allowed to park in one spot longer than 6h.

You can also book a spot in a parking with parclick , which is usually the same price as hotel parking.

Easiest Solution: Book a Hotel with Parking

A hotel with parking offers the undeniable advantage of driving directly to your hotel with the assurance that your car will be in safe hands for the duration of your stay.

Additionally, it simplifies the organizational of your trip, as you only need to focus on booking the hotel. However, be aware that parking is (almost) never free , and the price is primarily determined by one factor: location.

Below I assembled a list for you with a range of hotels across all budgets. They are well-located and, on purpose, not in the middle of the city center.

This way, you avoid navigating through Parisian traffic yet remain central enough to easily explore the city’s attractions without much commuting.

Budget Hotel in Paris with Parking:

• ibis budget Issy Les Moulineaux Paris Ouest – Unbeatable parking rates: €12/day. It’s located slightly outside the city but is well-connected thanks to the tram.

Affordable Hotels in Paris with Parking

• Aparthotel Adagio Philippe Auguste – Located near Père Lachaise Cemetery with the Metro station right at the doorstep – Parking: €18/day
• Hôtel Du Printemps – Beautiful Parisian area with the Metro station at your doorstep. Parking for €17/day
• B&B HOTEL Paris 17 Batignolles – Very close to the highway with excellent transit connections! Parking €25/day

Mid-range Hotels in Paris with Parking

• Acacias Etoile – Located near the Metro and close to the Arc de Triomphe – Parking: €35/day
• Fred’Hotel – In the beautiful southern part of Paris, includes breakfast & parking for €20/day
• Novotel Porte d’Orleans – Close to the highway, tram, and Metro right in front. Parking: €20/day

Upscale & Luxury Hotels in Paris with Parking

• Brach Paris – Rooftop terrace with a view of the Eiffel Tower, close to Metro – Parking: €50/day

Important : I strongly advise against exploring Paris in your car. It’s best to leave your car in the garage and explore Paris using the Metro.

Parisian city traffic takes so much time! You spend most of your vacation in traffic jams, looking for parking places, and then spending a fortune on parking. The Metro is much more practical.

If you prefer not to use the Metro, it’s still better to take an Uber or a taxi than driving yourself

Also interesting:

• How To Use The Parisian Metro in 2024

Leaving the car in the suburbs, a good idea?

Even though it might seem like the most convenient and cost-effective solution, I strongly, strongly advise against it. If your car remains unattended there for several days, you can be sure that it will be broken into.

I lived in a (fairly quiet and residential) suburb myself for many years and, due to cost reasons, didn’t have a garage. My car was broken into so often that eventually, I stopped locking it just to avoid further damage.

#5 Drive to Paris: Highway Tolls & Péage

The roads in Paris, the Périférique and also in the greater Paris region are mostly free.

However, since you’re likely coming from another country to Paris and therefore need to use the highway, you’ll inevitably encounter the péage (toll).

How does the péage work?

The péage is the toll you have to pay on on most highways in France. Essentially, you receive a ticket upon entering the highway, and when you exit at the toll booth, you pay for the distance you’ve traveled. However, there are also exceptions.

For some routes, you pay without a ticket, while for others, you pay multiple times because each section is maintained by a different toll operator.

For instance, if I drive from Belgium to Paris, I pay only once. However, if I drive from Paris to Normandy, I pay a smaller amount four times.

How do I pay tolls in France?

You can pay tolls on French highways using a credit card (Visa or Mastercard) or cash. Certain debit cards are also accepted.

You’ll notice when you approach the péage, that you have a choice between different lanes. It’s important to initially steer towards a lane marked with a green arrow , as these are open.

If you want to pay by card, choose a booth marked with the CB (Carte Bleue) sign. If you prefer to pay in cash, use the lane that displays either coins or a person on the sign.

Tip : When approaching the booth, stay to the far left. Otherwise, you won’t reach the machine and will have to awkwardly open the door, which is not very convenient… it’s just all in all quite an uncomfortable situation.

#6 What to do if you receive a fine from Paris?

If you expect a fine from Paris, let me warn you in advance: It might be pricier than what you’re used to in your home country. They are not kidding.

Speeding violations within city limits start at around €135, and going 50 km/h over the limit can reach up to €1500. Running a “dark yellow or red light? That’ll cost you €135! You can find the exact fines on this website.

Will a ticket be sent to your home address?

Yes, it will. Since 2013, vehicle owners are identified across Europe, so expect that your ticket from France won’t be forgotten. But the good news is, any potential points won’t be deducted from your record in your country.

How can you pay a fine from France?

If you have to pay a fine, to do it quick as possible is the key. The sooner you pay your fine, the more discount you receive.

Sounds odd, but that’s how it works. For instance, if you get fined 135 euros for speeding in inner-city areas, you’ll only pay 90 euros if you pay within the first 15 days. However, if you wait more than 45 days, the bill skyrockets to a whopping 375 euros.

You can pay the fine via bank transfer or credit card, but all the details are outlined extensively on the penalty notice.

What happens if you don’t pay the fine?

Even if you think they can’t catch you, ignoring a traffic ticket, especially from France, isn’t the wisest move. With the European agreement, refusing to pay can lead serious consequence.

#7 Is it worth traveling to Paris by car?

It’s a question with no one-size-fits-all answer, it simply depends.

If you are traveling to Paris with kids, arriving by car can definitely be less stressful . Plus, it might be financially interesting, especially if you plan a last-minute trip and Eurostar, TGV, or ICE prices are at the max.

When hovering over the question if you should travel to Paris by car, remember that it’s not just the fuel that eats your budget. But also tolls and parking charges adding up.

If you’re traveling with just one companion, a trip to Paris by car can sometimes be expensive .

Once in Paris, your car becomes useless as the city is well-connected by the Metro, and the costs of using public transportation will be in any case cheaper than driving around in your car.

Parisienne since 2006 🩷

Expert in: Parisian Life &

French Culture, Travel

Planning, Crochet & Food and Drinks

Join me on Facebook for updates and news about Paris.

Must Have Paris Travel Essentials

International Travel Adapter

Order here from Amazon

Portable Charger for your Phone

FAQ: Traveling to Paris by Car

Do i need an environmental sticker for paris.

Yes, the Paris City Area is an Environmental Zone, and You Need a Crit’Air Sticker to Drive In.

Can I Drive into the City Center of Paris by Car?

Yes, but bear in mind that certain areas are permanently or temporarily closed to cars, especially on weekends.

What are the Towing Costs in Paris?

If your car needs towing due to a breakdown, be prepared for costs of around €200. If you’re towed for parking violations, brace yourself for towing fees of €135, along with a fine.

Is it Possible to Sleep in a Car in Paris?

In Paris, it is permitted to sleep in your car for one night, provided that the car is not parked in the same spot for more than 24 hours.

Are There Hotels in Paris with Free Parking?

Not to my knowledge.

Similar Posts

Paris by Bike: How to rent a Vélib bike in Paris (2024)

How to get from Paris to Disneyland

5 Ways to Get from Charles de Gaulle Airport to Paris – THE Complete Guide!

20 Intriguing Louvre Facts: Untold stories you can’t miss

These Are the 13 Most Exceptional View Points in Paris

How to Learn French – 23 Tips to Progress

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

A Parisian Adventure: Planning the Perfect Day Trip From Paris

Craving a taste of French countryside, medieval history, or artistic inspiration? A day trip from Paris unlocks a world of possibilities

Camilla Amadi • Apr 29, 2024

Beyond the Eiffel Tower lies a treasure trove of destinations waiting to be discovered. Craving a taste of French countryside, medieval history or artistic inspiration? A day trip from Paris unlocks a world of possibilities and you can return to the City of Lights with renewed energy and unforgettable memories.

5 Day Trips From Paris

If you have some extra time, there are many charming towns and villages waiting to be explored. We’ve compiled five enticing escapes, all perfect for a single-day adventure from Paris. Here are a few of our favorites:

Home to the iconic Palace of Versailles, Versailles is a must-see for any history buff. The palace was the seat of French royal power for over a century, and its opulent gardens and staterooms are a testament to the grandeur of the French monarchy.

Things to do: Visit the Palace of Versailles, explore the Hall of Mirrors, stroll through the meticulously manicured gardens, rent a rowboat on the Grand Canal, visit the Marie-Antoinette’s Estate, and attend the famous Musical Fountain Shows (seasonal).

Best time to travel: The best time to visit Versailles is during the spring (April to June) or fall (September to October) when the weather is mild, and the gardens are in full bloom, avoiding the peak summer crowds.

Where to stay : Experience luxury at its finest by staying at the Trianon Palace Versailles, a Waldorf Astoria Hotel, offering elegant rooms and impeccable service just steps away from the Palace of Versailles.

This small village in Normandy is best known as the home of Claude Monet, the founder of Impressionism. Monet’s home and gardens, which he immortalized in many of his paintings, are now a popular tourist destination.

Things to do: Explore Claude Monet’s House and Gardens, wander through the flower garden and water garden, visit the Museum of Impressionisms, and take a leisurely walk around the picturesque village.

Best time to travel: The best time to visit Giverny is from April to October, especially during late spring to early summer when the flowers are in full bloom, and the gardens are at their most colorful.

Where to stay : Enjoy a peaceful countryside retreat at the Le Jardin des Plumes , a charming boutique hotel located close to Monet’s gardens, featuring stylish rooms and a gourmet restaurant with garden views.

Mont Saint-Michel

Mont Saint-Michel is famous for its dramatic tidal variations, with the surrounding bay experiencing some of the highest tides in Europe. During high tide, the island is completely surrounded by water, creating a magical and isolated atmosphere.

Things to do: Explore the Abbey of Mont Saint-Michel, walk along the ramparts for panoramic views, visit the historic village, wander through narrow streets lined with shops and restaurants, and take a guided tour to learn about the island’s fascinating history.

Best time to travel: The best time to visit Mont Saint-Michel is during the shoulder seasons of spring (April to June) or fall (September to October) to avoid the large crowds of summer while still enjoying pleasant weather.

Where to stay : Immerse yourself in the magic of Mont Saint-Michel by staying at the La Mère Poulard , an iconic hotel and restaurant within the medieval walls, offering cozy rooms and panoramic views of the bay.

The city of Chartres is famous for its magnificent cathedral, Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Chartres, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The cathedral is considered one of the finest examples of Gothic architecture in France, and its stained glass windows are some of the most beautiful in the world.

Things To Do: Visit the Maison Picassiette, a unique mosaic-covered house created by local artist Raymond Isidore, using broken glass and pottery. You may also walk the labyrinth located inside Chartres Cathedral, a symbolic journey representing the spiritual pilgrimage to Jerusalem.

Best time to travel: The best time to visit Chartres is during the spring (April to June) or fall (September to October) when the weather is mild, and the city is less crowded. 

Where to stay : Indulge in the historic ambiance of Chartres by booking a stay at the Best Western Plus Hotel Le Grand Monarque , ideally situated near the cathedral and featuring comfortable rooms and a traditional French brasserie.

This medieval town is located in Seine-et-Marne, about an hour east of Paris. Provins is known for its well-preserved city walls, its underground passages, and its annual Rose Festival, which takes place in September.

Things to do: Explore the medieval ramparts and gates, visit the Underground Galleries of Provins, attend a medieval festival or reenactment, explore the Grange aux Dîmes, and visit the Saint-Quiriace Collegiate Church.

Best time to travel : The best time to visit Provins is during the summer months (June to August) when the weather is pleasant for exploring outdoor attractions and when various festivals and events take place, celebrating the town’s medieval heritage.

Where to stay : Step back in time at the Maison d’Hôtes Stella Cadente , a unique boutique hotel located within the medieval walls of Provins, offering themed rooms inspired by fairy tales and a whimsical atmosphere that transports guests to another era.

Plan Your Itinerary

Crafting a well-rounded itinerary ensures you make the most of your time away from Paris. Consider the following tips:

Early Start: Begin your day trip early to maximize exploration time and avoid crowds, especially at popular attractions like Versailles or Mont Saint-Michel.

Transportation : Research transportation options, whether by train, bus, or organized tours, and book tickets in advance for a seamless journey.

Highlight Attractions: Prioritize must-see attractions while allowing flexibility for unexpected discoveries and leisurely moments.

Local Cuisine: Sample regional delicacies at quaint cafes or charming bistros, savoring the flavors of each destination.

Pack Essentials: Prepare for a day of adventure by packing essentials tailored to your chosen destination.

Comfortable Attire : Dress appropriately for the weather and activities, whether exploring palace grounds, hiking nature trails, or wandering cobblestone streets.

Map and Guidebook : Arm yourself with maps and guidebooks to navigate unfamiliar terrain and gain insights into local history and culture.

Camera : Capture the beauty and memories of your day trip with a camera or smartphone to immortalize scenic vistas and cherished moments.

Snacks and Water: Stay energized and hydrated throughout the day with snacks and water, especially if venturing to remote areas.

Embrace the Experience

Venturing beyond Paris’s borders unveils a world of wonders waiting to be explored. Whether you seek history, art, nature, or gastronomy, a day trip from Paris promises an enriching experience. Whichever destination you choose, you’re sure to have a memorable day trip from Paris. As you embark on your day trip from Paris, embrace the sense of adventure, engage with the locals and soak in the sights and sounds that comes with exploration. Bon voyage!

Subscribe to travel noire

Get more travel content

Subscribe to Travel Noire, a free daily newsletter that features the best of travel, destinations, and guides to the cities you love from a new point of view — yours.

By subscribing to this newsletter, you agree to our terms of service and privacy policy.

Popular posts

Trending stories in world travel

• Motorcycles
• Car of the Month
• Destinations
• Men’s Fashion
• Watch Collector
• Art & Collectibles
• Vacation Homes
• Celebrity Homes
• New Construction
• Home Design
• Electronics
• Fine Dining
• Aston Martin
• L’Atelier
• Les Marquables de Martell
• Mira Villas
• Panther National
• Reynolds Lake Oconee
• 672 Wine Club
• Sports & Leisure
• Health & Wellness
• Best of the Best
• The Ultimate Gift Guide
• Why Travelers Are Ditching Paris Hotels for Supersized Châteaux During the Summer Olympics

With prices competitive with the capital's best hotels and space for your entourage, the historic homes surrounding Paris are this summer's hottest booking.

Chrissie mcclatchie, chrissie mcclatchie's most recent stories.

• This 13th-Century Chateau Was Transformed Into a Spacious Retreat in Rural France. Here’s a Look Inside.
• The 7 Best Superyacht Catamarans, From Solar-Powered to Explorer Beasts
• Share This Article

Hidden among 12 acres of private woodland 35 minutes from the center of Paris , Château Bouffément is filled with five Napoléonic-era reception spaces, a sweeping horseshoe staircase, manicured lawns, and a mirror lake. 

Related Stories

Ask robb: help i’ve seen it all on safari—including the big 5. what now, you can now sleep in a ferrari museum or the ‘x-men’ mansion thanks to airbnb, savannah vs. charleston: which southern city has the best luxury hotels.

“They have tickets for three days of events, other than that they have various activities in and around Paris planned,” says Gogebakan.

 “We have a few clients who prefer to pop in and out of château properties rather than stay in Paris itself,” says Staunton, an ex-superyacht crew member turned CEO of SoldOut Events . “That way they can invite larger groups of friends and family for a unique experience.”

As it stands, Staunton has personally inspected and confirmed four exclusive-use castle bookings for UHNWI clients flying in for the games from around the world. “The appeal of the château is absolute privacy and the ability to bring in existing house staff, chefs, butlers, and the like because there is space for it,” he explains. 

They also don’t want to be jammed into the chaos of central Paris, since they are mostly targeting particular events.

“These are people who sail or ride horses or play golf or tennis, coming to Paris for their passion sport,” Staunton says.

That’s why a Korean family booked six nights at Château de Méridon , southwest of Paris. They’re coming to town to support their national archery team. At Château de Versailles, an American family is traveling for equestrian events.

“One of the families was eying Le Royal Monceau or Le Bristol , but decided to stay with us because we’re surrounded by greenery,” says Château de Versailles co-owner and managing director Jehanne Bosco. “They’re able to avoid the hassle of Paris yet are only 22 miles away.”

One of the groups coming for the Olympics found the $71,000-a-week property via Instagram. They were wowed by the Art Deco styling of the newly refurbished castle that once stood at the heart of the wildlife reserve of French King Louis XV. 

“We’re like a Parisian palace [a status awarded to exceptional French hotels], but people can enjoy the grounds, breathe in fresh air, and discover the rural side of France here, too,” Bosco says.

Some of the world’s top athletes are also eschewing Paris, and the traditional stay at the athletes’ village, for a château stay. A 45-minute drive from Paris, Château de Farcheville has a one month booking for one American Olympian and their entourage of around 25. The athlete was so sure of their participation that they made the reservation two years ago, property owner Conny Carlsson says.

Surrounded by a deep moat, the 13th-century castle promises total seclusion with all the trimmings including a swimming pool, a tennis court, and a spa and fitness center. 

But getting one for yourself ahead of the games won’t be easy. It’s estimated that there are 500-plus châteaux in the Île-de-France region surrounding Paris, although some are ruined, while others are museums or private homes. And only a small percentage of what’s on the luxury rental market actually tick the boxes for the likes of Staunton’s clientele: swimming pool, helipad to fly in and out of Paris, and separate accommodation for staff. 

Still, not every gold medal worthy property has been snapped up. Just 40 minutes from the Champs Elysées, Château de Villette was finished by the same architect as the Château de Versailles and served as a location in 2006’s The Da Vinci Code .

“The Château has seven luxurious suites and regularly hosts events and A-listers as they seek respite close to Paris,” says Madison Littlejohn of luxury real estate agents Carlton International. 

John Travolta, Tom Cruise, and Lenny Kravitz are just some of those who have stayed at the property which is, at the time of publication, still available for the entire Olympic period at a cost of $76,000 a night. Both Château Bouffémont and Château de Méridon are also showing availability for dates in early August. Talk about historic wins.

Read More On:

More destinations.

Who Needs a Chopper? Blade Is Launching a Luxe Bus Service to the Hamptons This Summer

Culinary Masters 2024

MAY 17 - 19 Join us for extraordinary meals from the nation’s brightest culinary minds.

Give the Gift of Luxury

Latest Galleries in Destinations

Kalmar Beyond Adventure’s Porsche Safari in Photos

Oceaya in Photos

More from our brands, img shifts from central hub for nyfw: the shows to designer partnerships, fanatics exec appeals injunction in draftkings noncompete case, ‘john mulaney presents: everybody’s in la’ is a winningly shambolic pop-up talk show: tv review, ancient egyptian pyramids, sphinx close to public for tech billionaire’s lavish wedding, the best yoga mats for any practice, according to instructors.

Great (Quiet) Alternatives To Paris This Summer

Traveling to France for the Olympics this year? Check out these underrated alternatives to Paris.

• Explore Chantilly - a historic gem just outside Paris with rich culture, amazing food, and stunning gardens.
• Visit Fontainebleau for a taste of French royalty and the picturesque Fontainebleau Forest trails.
• Step back in time in Rouen, a city full of historic relics, stunning architecture, and charming squares.

If you're planning to head to France for the Olympic Games this summer, it pays to think outside the Paris box. Although you'll find plenty of excellent hotels for digital nomads and vacationers and some of the best landmarks in the country , Paris will certainly be bustling for the games.

Instead, consider visiting one of these underrated, quieter, and culturally-relevant spots that are close enough to Paris to let you check out any game you want to see.

I Was Locked Alone In A Medieval Fortress In France (And Loved It)

This historic and culturally-rich city is a fantastic alternative to paris this summer.

At just over an hour from the heart of Paris, Chantilly is an utterly idyllic and smart place to spend your time while you're in France. This historically-relevant and charmingly cultural spot also shares a name with one of the best desserts in the world; Chantilly cream.

You'll find gorgeous gardens, beautifully-restored buildings, and a friendly vibe that will give you a true sense of French hospitality.

Visiting the Chateau de Chantilly is something that you should put on the top of your list if you find yourself in this town. It's one of the most memorable experiences you'll have, and also happens to be one of the most underrated places to visit outside or in Paris .

You'll find beautifully appointed and restored rooms and lush gardens at this crown jewel of Chantilly. If you want to check out some phenomenal art, the Musée de la Dentelle de Chantilly is an excellent option.

Plus, this city is an excellent spot for foodies, with some of the best dining options in all of France. Fantastic dining options like the Hotel de l'Oise and La Boutique Art et Passion Traiteur are two excellent five-star options.

Make sure that you tap into nature when you're visiting Chantilly with a restorative trip to the Chantilly Forest, where you can see old-growth flora and stroll around the ponds of Commelles.

Fontainebleau

The Chateau de Fontainebleau is one of the most famous French castles you should visit while you're in the country, and it certainly lives up to its reputation.

At about an hour and fifteen minutes from the middle of Paris, the Chateau de Fontainbleau and all the charms of this city can be yours, while still giving you easy access back to Paris itself, making this town an ideal choice for those who want a little bit of extra culture without the hustle and bustle of the big city.

You will also be able to immerse yourself in the Foret de Biere, also known as Fontainebleau Forest , a lush wonderland of local vegetation, plenty of hiking trails for all abilities and needs, and the stomping ground of many French kings.

Other exceptional things to do in Fontainebleau are to visit the Museum of the National Gendarmerie and indulge in some wine tasting and shopping along its cute cobbled streets.

If you want to pair your Fontainebleau visit with some rigorous exercise, check out these epic hikes from AllTrails with insider information on what to expect on the route, length, and general hiking conditions.

Kayak Through The Pont d'Arc, The Most Impressive Natural Arch In France

A historic and fascinating city where you can step back in time.

Rouen is one of the cities in France that you must visit if you want the chance to step back in time and see some truly stunning architecture. At just about two hours from Paris, it's a little bit further than the other options on our list, but rest assured, it's worth it.

Rouen sits right on the Seine River and is full of twisty streets, lovely squares great for socializing, and historic buildings. You'll find tons of fantastically-preserved churches and monuments, like the Rouen Notre-Dame Cathedral .

Other top sights include Aitre Saint-Maclou , an ancient cemetery and museum, and the stunning Gros Horloge astronomical clock. This spot is like no other in France, and certainly will be one of your most cherished memories of the trip.

There are tons of historic sites, monuments, and churches in Rouen, so if you're only staying for a little while, it's good to plot everything out on a Google Map so that you can be sure to hit all the high points on your trip. Plus, with a map, you can strategically plan your time by visiting places that interest you in the same geographical area.

10 Beautiful Small Towns In France To Visit

Paris might be the place to be in summmer 2024, but there is plenty more to experience during a trip to France.