What to Know Before You Go:

• If you are flying Ryanair into Beauvais (budget airline), you must take a bus (17 euro or 15.90 online in advance) that takes you into the city, near a metro station where you can catch the metro to anywhere else in the city. Mind you the bus takes another 1.5 hours, so you decide if it’s worth it!

• Charles de Galle airport is near the city center and is a very quick metro ride to anywhere in the city, although prices may be a little bit more expensive if flying within Europe.
• There are three airports in Paris, so be sure to include them all in your search options.
• It’s easier not to drive in Paris. Plan to utilize public transport if possible. Find more information on the Paris Metro website.
• Public transport is quick and easy. You can buy individual tickets (1.80 euro each ride) or 1, 2, 3, or 7 day passes. It may just be easier to get the day-long passes so you don’t have to stop to buy tickets each time. It’s approximately 11 euros per day for unlimited use. Expires at midnight.
• Paris is big. You can absolutely walk to many areas, but public transport is sure to help. Read more about Our Trip HERE.

• The people of Paris are NOT rude. That is a stereotype, and an unfair one. If anything, they are just busy. We did not meet one rude person on our trip. Here’s a tip. Before asking them in English (which is not their language) for help, ask “Parlez-Vous Anglais?” (Do you speak English?). If they say “no”, oh well. If they do speak English, they are sure to help you with your question. It’s not appropriate to start asking someone random things in a language that’s not their own. Be educated and respectful.
• Eat. Eat. Eat. And drink, drink, drink. You don’t need to have a bad meal in Paris. From take-away to high end sit-down restaurants, Paris has it all. Don’t waste your time on anything less than excellent. The restaurants and establishments listed in “Our Favorite Local Spots” are sure to leave you satisfied. Make sure to check out Our Favorite Local Spots and Local Cuisine in Paris.

• Pick pockets are common in Paris. Watch your stuff. Be constantly mindful. You don’t need to be paranoid, but know that there are many pickpockets in Paris and just be aware of your surroundings.
• Many free tours and tours with Sandman Tours. Take advantage. They also offer a variety of discounts and bundles for events going on in the city.
• Notre Dame is FREE!!! Definitely check it out. It’s very beautiful.

• When you’re at a bar or restaurant, as your bartender or server where his or her favorite place to go is – you get to experience the best establishments when you take the recommendations of locals.
• Tipping Etiquette: Legally, all restaurants in France must include a service charge in the bill. This means it is not required to tip anything in addition to your bill. That being said, if you receive great service, it’s always appreciated to leave a few extra euros. I like this website to outline the various tipping etiquettes (e.g., hotels, taxis, restaurants) in France.

Read more about the history of Paris.