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Debating whether to solo travel Paris or not? Let’s talk about it.
Visiting Paris alone can seem quite daunting, but in reality, it is no sweat. As someone who loves solo travel and used to backpack around Europe on my own, I knew I could plan a solo Paris trip.
But that didn’t mean I wasn’t nervous. I mean, my solo backpacking days were about 10 years ago- could I still do it? Thankfully, after spending 7 days alone in Paris this past year, I can say that yes, I still have it.
Perhaps this Paris solo trip is your very first experience traveling alone. If so, that is amazing and good for you! Or perhaps you’ve asked all your friends, family, etc. to go on an incredible trip to the City of Lights and nobody could make it.
Either way, you can do this. And with this solo travel Paris guide, you’ll have all the tools and knowledge you need to have the most amazing trip!
Ultimate Solo Travel Paris Guide
I want you to leave this page feeling confident and excited to spend time traveling to Paris alone. So, I’ve broken this rather lengthy guide into sections including tips about safety, things to do in Paris alone, places to eat, how to get around, and more!
Is Paris Safe For Solo Female Travelers?
I would say overall that yes, Paris is safe for solo female travelers. That doesn’t mean you should wander around all willy-nilly without a care in the world. But, as a woman, you are likely already aware that you can’t do this anywhere.
From my experience living in Cleveland and traveling to Paris, I feel far safer wandering around Paris than I would on most days in Cleveland. But taking precautions, knowing your surroundings, and using common sense will make you feel far safer in Paris.
However, this is a big city, and things do happen occasionally. I cannot guarantee anything, but following the tips below, you’ll likely be fine.
The biggest concern I always have when I’m traveling to Paris solo, or really anytime I’m in Paris, is about scams, pickpocketing, and petty theft. So follow the advice below to decrease your chances of getting scammed or robbed.
Is Paris Safe to Travel Alone?
Like above, overall yes. However, I come from the perspective of a white heterosexual cisgender woman.
Men, in general, should follow these same safety tips, and be extra wary of people trying to mug you, especially at night. Again, if you’re in pretty touristy areas that are busier in the evenings, you’ll probably be okay.
For those who are BIPOC, here are some fantastic travel bloggers to follow and read about their experiences.
And for those who identify as LGBTIQA+, I recommend following these great travel bloggers with these experiences traveling.
Paris Solo Travel Tips For Safety
Here are some helpful Paris solo travel tips to help keep you safe on your adventures.
1. Beware of Common Scams
Scams are pretty common in Paris, especially in tourist areas like the Louvre, Sacre Coeur, Eiffel Tower, etc.
My main assumption is if there is a distraction nearby, whether it is someone playing cups, asking you to sign a petition, or someone gathering a crowd in some way, it could be a scam and I am extra careful with my things.
Yes, sometimes a busker is just playing music or skating around cups, but you never know, so it is best to be vigilant.
Also, if someone comes up to you and is speaking English and super friendly, be wary of that too.
Here are some fairly well-known scams to avoid:
- Petition Scam: This happens in touristy places where someone will ask you for a signature for a petition. This could be a distraction to pickpocket you or they’ll find a way to make you pay money. Just say no and move along.
- “Free” Things Scam: If someone tries to hand you anything…do NOT take it. Whether it is a flower, bracelet, small gift, etc. They will try to make you pay for it once you take it.
- Knocked Over Change Scam: There are people begging for money on the streets in some areas of Paris. And you can certainly give them money if you wish. But there are some people who will try to put their cup in your way so you accidentally knock it over. Then, you’ll feel like you should give because you knocked it over.
- Cup & Ball Scam: Basically, don’t play games with people you don’t know. This is where someone hides a ball under a cup and shuffles them. You bet if you can get it, and if you guess correctly, your money will be doubled. You’ll see people winning (likely their friends who are in on it) and feel tempted to play yourself and bet higher each round. It starts off easy, and then, when you keep going, they’ll use sleight of hand to trick you and you’ll lose your money.
- Taxi Scam: This happens frequently at the airport. Do NOT take a taxi from anywhere but the official taxi stands. The others are likely scammers. There is a flat fee from the airport to the city based on where you go, and you’ll know what the fee is ahead of time. If they don’t have that information, it is a scam. Also, taxis have card readers, so if they are claiming they don’t, it is likely a scam. Just head to the official taxi stand, make sure they have a meter, charge a flat fee for the ride from the airport, and take cards.
In summary, don’t sign any petitions, don’t take anything from stangers, be careful where you’re walking, don’t play games on the street with strangers, and only take official taxis from the taxi stand at the airport.
2. How to Avoid Being Pickpocketed
Okay, this isn’t a fool-proof method, but here are some tips to avoid being pickpocketed.
- Have your bag in front and attached to you at all times. Whether you’re at a busy museum, sitting at a restaurant, or on the metro, you’ll want your bag closed/zipped up and in front of you.
- Have your hand over your bag in crowded places. I do this in the metro especially to keep any wandering hands out of my purse.
- Carry a good bag. Belt bags are popular in Paris, so I recommend getting a cute belt bag that fits your things. It makes it easy to keep track of and be on your person at all times.
- Don’t have your phone out, especially near the metro doors. If you’re on your phone and the metro door is closing, that is an easy target for pickpockets to quickly snatch your phone and run away. I have a case like this if I want to have my phone out on the metro that prevents it from getting snatched easily. But in general, don’t have your phone out next to the metro doors.
- Keep your passport, extra credit cards, extra cash, etc. locked in your hotel safe. You don’t need to carry your passport around Paris. And I would recommend only bringing 1-2 credit cards and however much cash you think you need for the day on you. The rest stays locked in the safe. That way, if you do get pickpocketed, you still have a spare credit card or 2, your passport, and cash safely hidden in the safe.
3. Watch Where You’re Going
This is just a safety tip in general in Paris. The streets of Paris can be quite busy, so be sure to wait for the walk sign to cross the street. Look both ways before you go (obviously).
But also look down and make sure that you aren’t in the bike lane. It is typically right next to the sidewalk. Bikers zoom quickly around Paris, and you don’t want to end up getting hit. So be sure you’re walking on the pedestrian part of the sidewalk to stay safe.
Also, watching your step will avoid unhappy accidents of you stepping in dog poo.
4. Look Up Directions in Advance and Be Familiar With Where You’re At
Be sure to map out where you’re going in advance so it is easier to know where you’re going and not look lost.
And, as always, be aware of your surroundings and familiarize yourself with where you’re staying and the area.
5. Avoid Walking Alone Late at Night
This is a big tip for any city. Now around dinner time and in busier areas, you can typically walk alone without trouble. I’ve wandered the streets of the Latin Quarter in the evenings and felt fine.
However, late at night is when you want to be careful. Rather than walking 15 minutes back to your hotel or catching a metro across the city, it is a good idea to perhaps get an Uber or official Paris taxi.
It helps to ask your accommodation if they have any taxi numbers they recommend that speak English so that you can call late at night if needed.
6. Run if Someone Tries to Touch You
If someone is approaching you and is acting friendly and trying to touch you: run. This can be a person who is trying to pickpocket you or find where your valuables are so their friends down the street can get you. This happens more frequently when you’re leaving the bars and clubs late at night, but still be wary of it.
7. Always Check the Uber License Plate And Share Your Location
Always check the Uber license plate if you’re getting into an Uber. It should match the one on the app. And don’t forget that you can share your trip with a trusted family member or friend. If you’re traveling solo to Paris, this is something you’re going to want to do.
8. Don’t Get Drunk
This is an important tip when it comes to solo female travel in Paris or worldwide. Don’t ever get to a point where you aren’t in control. Only you can get back home safely, so you’ll want to make sure you can do that easily.
9. Don’t Make Eye Contact
I remember when I was living in Grenoble, I was told to not make eye contact with people as it is seen as a type of flirting. And yes, one time I accidentally made eye contact with a guy who then approached me. Just avoid it if possible.
10. Don’t React to Catcallers
Hopefully, this won’t happen. But, if you do, just keep your head down and keep going. They typically leave you alone if you don’t respond. Take it from me, someone who was followed by a creepy guy after I yelled at him for catcalling me.
11. Use Common Sense
At the end of the day, you’ll want to use common sense as you would in any big city. Don’t accept things from strangers, avoid walking alone at night, don’t walk down dark alleys, etc.
Solo Travel to Paris: How to Get Downtown From the Airport
There are a few ways to get downtown from the Paris airport. Actually, there are 2 airports in Paris you could fly into.
I’ll start with CDG, or Charles de Gaulle Airport. This is the largest and most popular airport to fly into, especially if you’re flying in from around the world and not on a discount airline.
The first way to get from CDG to downtown Paris is to take the RER B train. You’ll head to the train station at CDG and purchase a ticket for the RER B train into Paris.
From the RER B train, you can get off at the Gare du Nord stop, Chatelet-Les Halles, Saint-Michel-Notre-Dame, Luxembourg, Port-Royal, Denfert-Rochereau, or Cité Universitaire. From there, you’ll either walk to your hotel or switch metros to wherever you’re going for your hotel.
This costs about €11.80 for the ticket for the RER B train. The train ride lasts about 30 minutes and runs every 10-15 minutes during the week.
There is also the option to take the RoissyBus Shuttle. This costs €16.60 for a ticket and lasts about 60 minutes to get downtown to the Paris-Opera stop. It runs between every 15-30 minutes based on the time of day.
Then, of course, there is the option to take a cab at the official cab stands or to order an Uber. Taxi rates should be around €56 for the right bank and €65 for the left bank for a one-way ride.
From the Orly Airport, which is the airport used for discount airlines, and smaller flights, you can take the OrlyVal to Antony Station and use the RER B train to get to Paris from there. This can take anywhere from 25-45 minutes based on which terminal you’re coming from and costs €14.50.
The Orlyval operates from 6 am-11:35 pm.
Another option is to take the OrlyBus from the airport to Place Denfert-Rouchereau. This costs €11.50 and runs every 10-15 minutes from 5:35 am from Denfert-Rouchereau to 12:30 am from Paris-Orly Airport. Expect this route to take 30 minutes or so.
Then, of course, there is the option for Uber and Taxi too.
Getting Around While Traveling Paris Solo
Once you’re in Paris, you’ll want to know how to get around Paris solo.
Luckily, there is ample public transportation, and walking is a great option too!
For the metro, I recommend downloading the Bonjour RATP app. This can help you map out the public transportation and even includes when each train, tram, bus, etc. stops.
Plus, if you have a Navigo Pass, you can purchase more tickets via this app to top up your card!
There is also the CityMapper app. This app allows you to map out where you’re going in Paris whether it is on foot or via public transport.
Then, of course, you can also use Google Maps which will give you up-to-date information on how to get around the city whether you want to walk, take the metro, or take the bus.
When to Solo Travel Paris France
Honestly, this is up to you! Paris is a great city to explore year-round, and if you’re coming for certain events (i.e. the Christmas Markets, soldes, festivals, concerts, etc.), you’ll want to time your trip for that.
I have a whole guide on the best time to visit Paris based on what you’re hoping to do.
Overall, though, if you want to enjoy the best of Paris and not worry much about staying out too late after the sun goes down, summertime is the perfect time to come.
Just note that hotel and flight prices do increase this time of year, as it is the busiest time to visit Paris. But the sun sets well into the evening at the height of summer, and it rises in the wee hours of the morning. So you’ve got most of the day to enjoy Paris in the light.
How Much Time Should You Spend on a Solo Paris Trip?
Again, this is up to you! I actually spent 7 days on my solo Paris trip and it was so much fun! I spent time exploring smaller museums in Paris, wandering around the many gardens and parks as it was springtime, and, yes, even dining out alone.
But if you’re new to solo travel, 3-4 days is a good amount of time to get familiar with the city and to take some baby steps into solo travel.
And if you are visiting Paris for the first time, honestly 3-4 days is a good amount of time to see the main highlights of the city. But 7 days was fantastic to dive even deeper and spot some of Paris’s hidden gems!
Where To Stay in Paris On Your Own
I have a whole guide on where to stay in Paris based on your travel style, so be sure to check that out!
But for solo travelers, you’re going to want to stay somewhere that is pretty busy at night and such so you’ll likely feel safer.
Some great arrondissements to stay at include the 18th (Montmartre), the 1st arrondissement near the Louvre and Palais Royale, around the 3rd and 4th arrondisements, known as Le Marais, the 6th arrondissement, known as Saint-Germain-des-Pres, or the 5th, known as the Latin Quarter.
Now whether you choose a hostel, hotel, or Airbnb is up to you. I recommend for newer solo travelers to stick to a hostel or hotel. But, I actually ended up staying in this Airbnb near Pigalle.
It was run like a smaller boutique hotel. I also knew that I wanted to cook some meals and not stay in a hostel in my 30s, so I chose it. It turned out great, and I loved my stay here! It was close to Montmartre and Pigalle, and it was tucked away from the street behind a door and courtyard, making me feel safer at night.
But Here are Some Great Hotels to Stay at During Your Visit:
Hotel Atmospheres: Located in the Latin Quarter near the Sorbonne University, this area is very walkable with close proximity to Notre Dame, the Seine, the Pantheon, and more. It is also a lovely little hotel with friendly staff.
Hotel des Artes-Montmartre: This is in a great location on a busy street near Montmartre. It is close to many great restaurants, shops, and the metro so it is easy to get around the city from here.
Le Temple de Jeanne: This is a cute little boutique hotel in the heart of Le Marais and is within steps of great restaurants and shops. There are also great little museums and parks, like Place des Vosges nearby.
Hotel Le Clement: This place is conveniently located in the 6th near so many great bars, restaurants, shops, museums, and even the Jardin du Luxembourg. This place is comfortable for your stay and is in a great area for exploring Paris by yourself.
Hotel La Tamise-Esprit de France: With gorgeous rooms and a nice lounge, there is a reason people love this hotel. It is also conveniently located in the 1st arrondissement near attractions like the Louvre, Jardin des Tuileries, and more!
As always, read reviews of hotels before you book! TripAdvisor even lets you filter reviews based on solo travel, time of year, etc. So it’ll let you know if it is a good spot for your time doing solo female travel in Paris.
Best Hostels in Paris For Solo Travelers
I’m not going to lie, it has been a hot minute since I’ve stayed in a hostel. I’m in my 30s, have the money for a hotel, and don’t love sharing a bathroom anymore. I’m not trekking my skincare routine back and forth to the shared bathroom.
But, in my early 20s, I loved hostels. For starters, you meet so many other solo travelers and other people in general! Between sharing dorm rooms, cooking in the kitchen, hanging out in the lounge area, or many hostel free or cheap walking tours/bar crawls, you get to know people quickly.
I’m by no means dogging hostels. But after being in my mid-twenties and being the oldest person there, I felt like those days were limited.
I digress, but here are some hostels to check out. As always, read the reviews. I always find hostels by selecting higher-rated hostels with many guests, read the reviews, and typically choose a female dorm as a solo-female traveler.
Beau M: This hostel is in Montmartre and is clean, reasonably priced, and in a great location.
The People Paris Marais: This place is also in a great location for exploring as it is near Le Marais. Plus, each bed has a blackout curtain, plug, reading light, and more.
Plug in Montmartre by HiphopHostels: Known for its location, great staff, and being clean, it is a great place to stay during your solo trip in Paris. It is also close to many restaurants, bars, and shops.
Things to Do Alone in Paris
Now that you’re on your own in Paris, let’s talk about all the great things to do in Paris by yourself!
1. Visit the Museums.
Okay, you can do this either solo traveling in Paris or with others. But the great thing about traveling solo is that you can go at your own pace. Are you that person who likes to read all the details and see everything? Go for it! Do you like the smaller museums and off-the-beaten-path galleries? You do you!
I will note that even if you’re going solo to museums, I highly recommend getting an entry ticket ahead of time for the Louvre so you can skip the line. You’ll likely want one for Musee d’Orsay as well.
Which museums are perfect for solo travel? All of them! But the Louvre and Musee d’Orsay are certainly the more popular spots in Paris. I actually preferred the quieter museums like Musee National Eugene Delacroix, Musee Gustave Moreau, Musee Rodin, Maison de Victor Hugo, the Cluny Museum, and my fave: Musee de l’Orangerie with the Monet paintings.
2. Explore the Monuments of Paris Alone
Take your time and see as little or as many monuments in Paris as you like. Climb up the Arc de Triomphe for epic views of Paris, wander around the Eiffel Tower to see it at its best angles, and even enjoy one of my favorite views of Paris from the top of the Pantheon.
3. Visit the Churches of Paris
We know about Notre Dame (which hopefully opens soon!) and Sacre Coeur, but there are SO many great churches around the city of Paris to visit during your solo trip.
My personal favorite is the Church of Saint-Germain-des-Pres across the street from Les Deux Magots. I also love visiting the lovely Saint-Etienne-du-Monte church, the Greek temple-style L’eglise de la Madeleine, and the Eglise Saint-Pierre de Montmartre (it is a 12th-century church next to the Sacre Coeur)!
And, for a chapel with the most beautiful stained glass windows you’ll ever see, you’ll want to be sure to add Sainte-Chapelle to your list. Book tickets ahead of time to save time.
4. Stroll Through the Arrondissements
This is a great daytime activity! Wandering through Paris is honestly one of my favorite pastimes. There are some fantastic neighborhoods, each with its own personality. Some great ones to check out include Montmartre, the Latin Quarter, Le Marais, Saint-Germain-des-Pres, the 7th, and the Canal Saint-Martin area.
These places have fantastic shopping, dining options, places to grab a drink, and even great views!
5. Enjoy the Gardens of Paris During Your Paris Solo Trip
Paris has so many lovely parks and gardens to walk through, set up a solo picnic, and more! My favorites include Jardin du Luxembourg, Jardin des Tuileries, Parc des Buttes-Chaumont, and Jardin des Plantes.
This is especially pretty in the spring when the flowers are blooming! And if you’re lucky, you may even spot the goats munching on the grass in one of them!
6. Take a Seine River Cruise in the Evening
Want to admire the Eiffel Tower at sunset and perhaps catch it sparkle? Then a river cruise is a great idea for solo travelers in Paris!
Book a lovely cruise along the Seine to see many sights of Paris, and perhaps have a glass of Champagne as you take in the views of the Eiffel Tower.
7. Solo Travel in Paris Idea: Pamper Yourself at a Hammam
Paris is known for its lovely hammams throughout the city, and for a solo traveler in Paris trying to get a little rest and relaxation after all that walking around, it is the perfect half-day treat.
I loved my visit to O’Kari Hammam. I booked a package that included time in the hammam, time spent soaking in the pool, a massage, exfoliation, and more!
Other great hammams to enjoy for a spa day include Spa Clemens, Maison Alaena, or Villa Thalgo.
You’ll probably feel like jello afterward, but it is so much fun! I was so relaxed.
8. One of the Best Things to Do in Paris on Your Own: Perfume Shop in Le Marais
Shopping in Paris is really fun, and I honestly prefer to shop alone and take my time. But while you could certainly go shopping at the department stores in Paris, I really fell in love with shopping around the Marais neighborhood, especially for perfume!
There are perfume shops all over Le Marais. Whether you want to find a signature scent or create your own perfume, there are endless options!
You can book a perfume-making workshop in places like Studio des Parfums, or you can just shop around, enjoying the smells and the adorable shops.
Of course, there are big names like Dipytique, but there are smaller little shops selling great perfume as well. I fell in love with and purchased a unique perfume at Parle Moi de Parfum and wear it all the time!
But I remember walking around Le Marais and popping into perfume shops like Perfumer H, Sens Unique Parfumerie, and Penhaligon’s Francs Bourgeois.
9. Get Some Great French Pharmacy Skincare Products
Speaking of shopping, you can also enjoy searching for the best French pharmacy products and stocking up on things you’ll want to take home!
While City Pharma is a popular spot with great deals, most of the best products can honestly be found in most pharmacies around the city.
10. Go on a Guided Tour
Solo travel in Paris doesn’t have to be lonely. If you want to meet new people, just book a guided tour! As an added bonus, the tour guides are usually friendly and have so much knowledge!
For example, this Evening Louvre tour is with an art history expert and includes highlights of the top things in the Louvre!
You can also book guided food tours like this one around Le Marais, or this delicious tour of Montmartre.
And what could be better than to chat and make friends while taking a cooking class?
11. Go on a Day Trip From Paris
Want to get out of the city? Then you’re going to love going on a day tour. It is also a great way to make friends!
There are ample great day trip ideas from Paris, but here are a few popular ones to check out:
- Paris to Versailles With a Bike Tour
- Loire Valley Castles and Wine
- Mont-Saint-Michel Tour
- Champagne Day Tour
- Giverny Monet Gardens Tour
12. Book a Photoshoot During Your Paris Solo Trip
Traveling solo can be cumbersome when it comes to getting photos of yourself. And I don’t particularly trust having my phone so far away from me if I set it up on a tripod.
So, the solution is to either do an obvious selfie… or you can book a photographer for an hour or more!
Get professionally shot and edited photos done around the Louvre or other popular spots in Paris during this photoshoot.
Get dressed up and enjoy feeling like a model for an hour!
13. Enjoying a Show at a Movie Theater is One of the Best Things to Do in Paris Alone at Night
Want to see the latest blockbuster film? What about checking out the latest French film? You can do that at the many cinemas around the city! And this is easily something you can do alone.
Get some snacks, and settle in to see a great movie.
The most well-known movie theater is the Grand Rex, but there are other great places like Studio 28, Le Louxor, Le Champo, and more!
14. Catch A Show at Night Alone in Paris
Don’t want to watch a movie? Then, check out the ample shows that happen all over the place in Paris!
Catch the latest playing at the Palais Garnier. Or you could check out the many other amazing theatres in the city. This can be a really fun thing to do in Paris alone at night for those who speak a bit of French!
15. Stroll Along the Seine
The Seine flows right through the middle of the city, and there is always something going on. There are some evenings where you’ll spot people dancing and enjoying the music along the river.
There are also beautiful stands to purchase souvenirs, and it is overall a really fun spot for people-watching.
16. Partake in Cafe Culture
There are several lovely cafes all over the city. And you could spend hours just enjoying a coffee, reading a book, and watching the world go by at a sidewalk cafe.
And for those who love a historic cafe, you can visit places like Les Deux Magots, Cafe de Flore, or even Cafe de la Mairie.
17. Grab a Drink During Solo Travel in Paris
You don’t have to skip aperitif during a solo trip to Paris! Grab a glass of wine at a cute cafe, or perhaps enjoy a spitz on the patio. Or, if you love a good cocktail, head to a fun cocktail bar for a drink.
I loved a little wine bar called Soif for a fun glass of wine! And I even met some other people and chatted for a bit!
Some other great bars include Castor Club, Le Bar, and Little Red Door.
18. What to Do in Paris Alone at Night: See the Lights!
Admire the Eiffel Tower while it sparkles and shimmers on the hour at night! Or you can enjoy the lights around the city, especially around the holiday season.
Either way, this is a fun thing to do at night in Paris whether you’re alone or with friends. Again, just be vigilant of your surroundings.
19. Enjoying the Markets is One of the Top Solo Travel Paris Activities
There are several amazing markets to enjoy throughout the city! Whether you want to go antique shopping at Marche Aux Puces de St-Ouen, or you want to grab a bite to eat at Marche des Enfants Rouges, there are several options.
Want fresh fruits, veggies, and cheeses at a farmers market? Enjoy the twice-weekly Marche Bastille.
Or if you want to enjoy a covered market where you can get meats, cheeses, veggies, and takeaway food, definitely check out the lesser-visited Marche Saint-Quentin.
20. Partake in Local Events
Want to immerse yourself in the local culture? Check out the local events! In the summertime, check out the Paris Plages along the Seine!
During the holiday season, grab souvenirs and lovely treats at the Christmas markets.
And if you’re here on the summer solstice, you can partake in the annual Fete de la Musique! There is music everywhere and you can dance the night away as you celebrate the longest day of the year!
Solo Travel Paris: Where to Dine Alone
While solo traveling, you can pretty much dine anywhere you’d like to and feel comfortable with. There are some great restaurants that I absolutely love to eat at whether I’m alone or with others. Here are some amazing places to check out!
- Carette– Great sit-down place for the best hot chocolate! Have that and a croissant to get your morning going!
- Les Deux Magots– Another great cafe for hot chocolate. Grab breakfast here and enjoy the people-watching.
- Hardware Societe– Great brunch spot- just be sure to go early!
- L’As Du Fallafel– The best falafel sandwich you’ll ever have! You can get this to go or eat inside.
- Marche des Enfants Rouges– Fantastic market with food stands where you can order anything from hamburgers to Moroccan and in between!
- La Felicita– Giant Italian food hall that is owned by the same company as Pink Mamma. Get amazing Italian food without the crazy lines at Pink Mamma.
- La Pointe Drouot– Cute little spot for dinner and drinks.
- McDonald’s– Hear me out! You’ve got to try McDonald’s here at least once. They offer different things that you can’t get in other countries!
- Les Boites aux Lettres– Amazing place in Montmartre with very delicious food. Seriously, I loved the hummus with roasted cauliflower and poached egg.
- Chez Alain Miam Miam– Such good sandwiches in Le Marais.
- Cafe Breizh– Great spot around the city for crepes.
Solo Travel Paris Itinerary
It is hard to give you an exact itinerary, mostly because I don’t know when and for how long you’ll be visiting Paris.
However, I do have plenty of great blog posts with itineraries including:
These are super detailed itineraries that give you everything you need to know about staying in Paris for those amounts of time by someone who has lived in France and visits Paris a lot (aka me).
If you have 4 days in Paris while solo, here is a shortened itinerary I’d recommend
- Day 1: Arrive, wander the streets of Paris including the Louvre (potentially visit if time!), Palais Royale, Seine River, Eiffel Tower, and Pont Alexandre III.
- Day 2: Breakfast at Les Deux Magots, explore Saint Germain, visit the Rodin Museum and Orangerie Museum, and go on a food tour of Le Marais.
- Day 3: Day trip of your choice and have dinner at a lovely restaurant (Love Les Boites aux Lettres).
- Day 4: Breakfast at Carette. Explore Le Marias and Montmartre. Enjoy smaller museums in Le Marais like Musee Carnavalet or Maison Victor Hugo and in Montmartre like the Montmartre Museum.
For more itinerary ideas, definitely go check out my guides listed above. I have so much great information to plan the perfect trip!
Other Solo Travel Paris Tips
I hope that by now you’re feeling confident traveling Paris solo. You’ve got this! But before you arrive, here are some final tips to follow.
Learn a Little French
I’m not saying you must be fluent, but every little bit helps. Learn how to say hello, goodbye, thank you, yes/no, etc. These make a huge difference. Check out my useful French phrases to know here.
Always Say Bonjour/Bonsoir
If you enter a shop, boulangerie, etc. and don’t say hello, it is considered rude. So when you enter, say “Bonjour/Bonsoir” depending on the time of day. Typically I switch from bonjour to bonsoir around 5 pm, but you can also do it from sunset onwards.
What to Wear in Paris
I have a whole guide complete with a packing list about what to wear in Paris. It is on my other travel blog! I update it after every trip to Paris to keep up with what people are actually wearing.
The most important thing is comfortable walking shoes. I love these sneakers for walking around all day.
Again, a crossbody bag like this beltbag is a great idea too. And be prepared for the weather. That means having a waterproof trench coat, umbrella, etc.
Some things to not bother bringing to Paris: stilettos (absolutely not on those cobblestone streets!), a beret (locals don’t tend to wear these), super tight/revealing clothing isn’t as popular here, athleisure, short shorts, and heavily done hair and makeup.
They like to keep it simple, so with some basics, you’ll be good to go!
How Much Does A Solo Trip to Paris Cost?
I have you covered on that one too in this blog post. I detail all the things to include in your budget and what the overall cost is.
For solo travelers on a budget in Paris, $1,000-1,500 is appropriate for a 5-day trip to Paris. For mid-range travelers, you’re looking at around $2,400 for 5 days. And for luxury travelers, plan for at least $6,500+ for a 5-day trip.
Find the detailed Paris trip cost here!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance
Whether you lose your luggage or your flight is delayed or canceled, travel insurance is a great idea, especially if you’re traveling Paris solo. I use World Nomads for my travel insurance needs.
How to Meet People in Paris
The best way to meet fellow travelers and new friends is by taking group tours! Whether that is a food tour, a tour of a museum, or a guided tour of an area, that is a great way to get to know people along the way.
Another way is to stay in a hostel. I met so many great people when I used to stay in hostels thanks to the community atmosphere. And with so many other solo travelers, you’re bound to make friends!
Language classes are a great way to meet new people too! If you’re planning to visit to immerse yourself in France and learn the language, finding a language class is a great way to go!
So…Is Solo Travel in Paris Recommended?
Absolutely! I loved my experience during my solo trip to Paris as a woman. Yes, you’ll need to use common sense and avoid pickpockets, but the experience is quite freeing!
I love solo travel in general as you are on your own schedule and can do whatever you want! You can sleep in and have a lazy morning wandering around, or you can get up at the crack of dawn and hit the main sights.
But it is a great way to get to know yourself better and feel more comfortable with yourself. When I solo traveled in my 20s, I learned more about myself than I ever had during that time. I built so much confidence in my ability to navigate cities alone too!
As someone who is in my 30s, I still love building that confidence during solo travel and finding time for just me.
I hope you love your solo travel experience in Paris and fall in love with this city too!
Want more Paris travel ideas? Check out these posts!
- Ultimate Guide to Visiting Paris in January
- Most Romantic Things to Do in Paris
- Best Gifts For the Paris Lover
- Top Weekend Trips From Paris
- Perfect Paris Autumn Guide
- Paris Olympics Guide
- 10 Days in France: 10 Ways to Spend 10 Days in France
- 23 Paris Travel Tips for First Timers
- Hidden Gems of Paris
- Ultimate Paris Bucket List
- Most Beautiful Cities in France
- France Bucket List
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