Ah, Paris—the city of love and lights. For many of us, it's our dream destination. But you'll need so much more than a passport and wanderlust to experience the real magic of Paris. Here are some inside tips that will have you getting around the City of Lights like an authentic Parisian.
Mastering the Parisian Art of Dining: Avoid the tourist traps—although the views of Paris from the Eiffel Tower's restaurants are phenomenal, the food never seems to live up to the price tag. Instead, head to other districts for real, honest-to-goodness, authentically French fare.
Experience the Markets: Paris is proud of its fresh produce and great cheese. Stop into local markets like the Marché des Enfants Rouges for an ultimate Parisian experience in food.
Wine and Dine on a Budget: Eat affordably yet well by frequenting the many bistros and brasseries off the beaten tourist track. Add a glass of house wine to your meal.
Picnic Perfection: Save money and enjoy a leisurely meal by buying fresh bread, cheese, and charcuterie at a local market and having a picnic in a park.
Getting Around the City Like a Local: Master the Metro: The Paris Metro is an excellent way of moving around the city. Buy a Navigo Pass that allows unlimited travel within zones 1-3.
Walk, Don't Rush: C'est la vie Parisienne best lived on foot. There's no need to rush; just walk and soak in the atmosphere with the added advantage of discovering some really interesting out-of-the-way places.
Bike Your Way Through Hire a bike and take a leisurely tour of the city. Paris has bike lanes, so it's safe and beautiful.
Steer Clear of Tourist Crowds Of course, famous landmarks are a must-visit, but to live like a Parisian, step off the beaten path. Up-and-coming neighborhoods like Le Marais, Montmartre, and the Latin Quarter are definitely worth exploring.
Saving Money and Maximizing Your Trip Off-Peak Travel: Visiting Paris during the off-season will be when you go during the shoulder seasons, April-May or September-October, and get lower prices and smaller crowds.
Free Museums and Attractions: Most of the museums are free on entry on certain days of the week/month. Just plan your visit accordingly and save some bucks.
Pack Light: This is a city of style, but you do not need an entire wardrobe. Pack versatile pieces of clothing that can be used in layering.
Embracing the Cafes: Now, Parisian cafes offer a great chance for people-watching, relaxation, and the tasting of delicious coffee or sweet pastry.
These tips can help you change your vacation in Paris from a spree in popular tourist attractions to a rich cultural experience that has many unforgettable moments for remembering. Bon voyage!