Paris travel information
France’s cosmopolitan capital is a heady blend of romance and style, ancient and modern sights, fabulous fashion and sumptuous cuisine. It is one of Europe’s most alluring holiday destinations, whether for a whirlwind shopping spree or an in-depth exploration of the city’s cultural, historical and social attractions. Paris, like most major urban centres, is less safe than the surrounding countryside, and visitors should be on the alert for street crime in the city, but most travellers have trouble-free stays. Here are some basic tips to be aware of while travelling in Paris.
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Don’t accept help from men offering assistance at the ticket machine at the Eurostar Gare du Nord – most are scam artists that will charge you an exorbitant price for an unusable ticket.
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Avoid rue Saint Denis and the Bois de Boulogne at night – these areas become particularly sketchy after dark.
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Learn a few basic words and phrases of French. Not only will it improve the response you receive from Parisians, but it will also help you with asking directions and getting around the city.
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If you plan on hiring a car in the city, be aware that traffic congestion is common and Parisians drive however they want to, so be on the defensive.
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Lines and crowds at the Eiffel Tower can get very long, so if you are desperate to see the city lights at night, make a reservation or stick to weeknights as weekends are extremely busy..
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Parisians have an overdeveloped sense of style, and it is not customary to wear shorts in the city. Doing so will make you stand out as a tourist very obviously.
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Parisian sketch artists will often overcharge drastically for their caricatures, so be sure you negotiate a set price up front if you want one done.
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Paris encompasses some of the world’s finest art museums and examples of architecture. Don’t miss a visit to the Louvre or Notre Dame in particular.
Useful travel tips resources
Bugbog
Comprehensive travel site with useful information and advice on a wide variety of destinations.
http://www.bugbog.com
Strive for Impact
Travel tips and advice from experienced travellers.
http://www.strive4impact.com/traveladvice_files/paris_travel_tips.html
Footprint Guides - Paris
Incomparable resource on Paris travel, from a renowned travel resource.
http://www.footprintguides.com/
More topics on this site…
Paris maps and geography
France travel information
France travel tips
France health and safety
France maps and geography
Paris Trip Planner
Paris Accommodation
Paris Arts and Entertainment
Paris Bars and Clubs
Paris Eating And Drinking
Paris Festivals And Events
Paris Gay and Lesbian
Paris Getting Around
Paris Getting There
Paris History and Background
Paris Sports
Subregions of Paris
Essentials
Visas: EU citizens, and citizens of the US, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and Israel do not need visa for visits of up to 90 days.
Season: March – June, September - October
Money: Euro
Language: French
Emergency #: Police - 17; Fire - 18; Ambulance - 15