How To Travel in Paris Like a Local

If you’re planning a trip to Paris, you may be wondering how to best experience all the city has to offer without feeling like a tourist. Never fear! With a little research and advance planning, it is possible to travel in Paris like a local. Here are some tips on how to get around, where to stay, what to eat, and how to shop like a resident of the City of Light.

How to get around Paris like a local

Use public transportation

The best way to get around Paris like a local is to use the city’s public transportation system. The Metro is efficient and clean, and can take you anywhere you need to go in the city. If you’re staying in Paris for an extended period of time, consider getting a Navigo pass, which allows unlimited travel on the Metro, buses, and trains.

Walk or bike whenever possible

Another great way to get around Paris like a local is to walk or bike whenever possible. Walking is a great way to see the sights and get some exercise, and it’s also free! If you don’t want to walk everywhere, consider renting a bike. Bike rental stations are located throughout the city, and it’s a great way to explore Paris at your own pace.

Know the best times to travel

To avoid crowds and save money on transportation, it’s important to know the best times to travel in Paris. Avoid rush hour on the Metro if possible, as it can be very crowded during this time. Also, be aware of holidays and other events that may impact travel times and schedules.

Where to stay in Paris like a local

Consider an apartment rental

If you’re looking for a more authentic Parisian experience, consider renting an apartment instead of staying in a hotel. You’ll have more space to spread out, and you’ll be able to cook your own meals if you want to. Plus, you’ll get to live like a local – something that can’t be said for most hotel stays.

There are a few things to keep in mind when renting an apartment in Paris. First, make sure you’re dealing with a reputable company or individual. There are unfortunately many scammers out there who will try to take advantage of unsuspecting travelers. Second, be prepared for a higher price tag than you might expect. Paris is one of the most expensive cities in the world, so don’t expect bargain basement prices when it comes to apartments.

Other than that, renting an apartment is a great way to experience Paris like a local. Just make sure you do your research beforehand and choose a reputable company or individual to rent from.

Stay in a neighborhood away from the tourist traps

The best way to avoid the crowds and inflated prices of Paris’ tourist traps is to simply stay in a different neighborhood altogether. there are plenty of great areas of Paris that are far less crowded and much more affordable than places like the Champs-Elysées or the Eiffel Tower area.

One great option is Montmartre, which is located just north of central Paris. This historic district is home to winding streets, charming cafes, and some of the best views in the city – all without the crowds and high prices of other areas of town. Another great option is Belleville, which is located in eastern Paris and is known for its vibrant Chinese community and diverse selection of restaurants and shops.

So if you want to avoid the worst aspects of tourism in Paris, simply stay in one of the many other great neighborhoods that the city has to offer. You’ll save money and have a much more authentic experience as well.

Find a hotel with character

If you’re set on staying in a hotel during your time in Paris, that’s fine – just make sure you choose one with character. There are plenty of chain hotels in Paris that offer generic, cookie-cutter rooms and experiences. But if you take the time to find a smaller, independent hotel, you’ll be rewarded with so much more.

One great option is the Hôtel du Petit Moulin, which is located in the trendy Le Marais district. This 17th-century former bakery has been turned into a stylish and unique hotel, complete with exposed brick walls and original features. Another great option is Hotel Paradis, which is located in the Montmartre district and offers stunning views of the Sacré-Cœur Basilica from its rooftop terrace.

So if you want to make sure your hotel stay is an enjoyable and memorable one, take the time to find a place with character instead of opting for a generic chain hotel.

What to eat in Paris like a local

Seek out the city’s best bakeries patronize the local markets dine at casual, authentic restaurants

When it comes to food, Paris is a veritable paradise for anyone who loves to eat well. And while it’s certainly possible to find good food in the city’s tourist traps, if you really want to eat like a local, you’ll need to seek out the city’s best bakeries, markets, and casual restaurants.

Starting with bakeries, there are simply too many great options to list them all here. But some of our favorites include Eric Kayser, Du Pain et des Idées, and Pierre Hermé. These bakeries are known for their delicious breads and pastries, and they’re definitely worth seeking out if you’re looking for a true taste of Parisian cuisine.

When it comes to markets, again, there are too many great options to list them all here. But some of our favorites include the Marché aux Puces de Saint-Ouen (the world’s largest flea market), the Marché d’Aligre (a great place to find fresh produce), and the Marché Batonnet (a seafood lover’s paradise).

Finally, when it comes to casual dining, there are plenty of great options to choose from. But some of our favorites include Chez L’Ami Jean (a classic bistro serving traditional French fare), Le Chateaubriand (an inventive restaurant that’s always pushing boundaries), and La Cave des Abbesses (a cozy wine bar with an excellent selection of cheese).

How to shop in Paris like a local

Frequent the city’s open-air markets

The best way to shop like a local in Paris is to frequent the city’s open-air markets. There are several of these throughout the city, and they offer a great opportunity to buy fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and more. Many of these markets also have stalls selling clothes, jewelry, and other items.

Shop at local boutiques

Another great way to shop like a local in Paris is to visit the many local boutiques that can be found throughout the city. These shops typically sell clothing, accessories, and home decor items that are unique to Paris. Many of them also offer discounts or sales on certain items from time to time.

Avoid the tourist traps

One final tip for shopping like a local in Paris is to avoid the tourist traps. These are typically stores or businesses that are geared towards tourists and charge higher prices for their goods or services. By avoiding these places, you’ll be able to save money and get better deals on the things you want to buy.

Conclusion

If you want to experience Paris like a local, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First, use public transportation as much as possible and walk or bike whenever possible. Second, stay in a neighborhood away from the tourist traps. Third, patronize the local markets and bakeries and dine at casual, authentic restaurants. Finally, frequent the city’s open-air markets and shop at local boutiques to get the best deals. By following these tips, you’ll be sure to have a memorable and authentic experience in Paris.

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