My son and his girlfriend recently took a trip to Paris. It was the first time she was visiting the romantic city. Having visited Paris several times, I found myself giving her all kinds of advice. Paris is one of the most beautiful cities in the world with a rich culture, a fascinating history, and delicious cuisine. While it’s easy to hit all the main tourist attractions, I truly wanted her to experience the city like a local.
So I came up with a list of five tips for traveling like a local in Paris.
1.Get lost in the city’s neighborhoods
Paris is made up of 20 unique neighborhoods, or arrondissements, each with its own character, history, and charm. To really get a feel for the city, don’t just stick to the main tourist areas like the Eiffel Tower and the Champs-Élysées. Instead, wander off the beaten path and explore some of the lesser-known neighborhoods like the Marais, Belleville, or the 13th arrondissement. You’ll discover hidden gems like local cafes, street art, and charming boutiques.
- Visit local markets
Paris is known for its world-class cuisine, and one of the best ways to experience it is by visiting a local market. The most famous market in Paris is the Marché aux Puces de Saint-Ouen, which is a great place to find vintage clothes and antiques. For foodies, the Marché d’Aligre is a must-visit, where you can find fresh produce, meats, and cheeses. The Marché des Enfants Rouges is another popular market, with a great selection of prepared foods from around the world.
- Take a bike ride along the Seine
Paris is a bike-friendly city, and one of the best ways to see the city is by taking a leisurely bike ride along the Seine river. Rent a bike from one of the many bike rental companies in the city, and pedal your way along the river, taking in the stunning views of the city. There are also plenty of bike paths along the Seine, so you can explore at your own pace.
- Enjoy a picnic in a local park
Paris is home to some of the most beautiful parks in the world, and locals love to spend their afternoons relaxing in them. Pack a picnic with some local cheeses, baguettes, and wine, and head to one of the city’s parks like the Jardin du Luxembourg or the Parc des Buttes-Chaumont. You’ll get to enjoy the local food and wine while soaking up the sun and people-watching.
- Experience the nightlife like a local
Paris is known for its vibrant nightlife, with a wide range of bars, clubs, and music venues. To experience the nightlife like a local, head to some of the city’s trendiest neighborhoods like Oberkampf or Pigalle, where you’ll find a mix of locals and expats. Be sure to try some of the local drinks like the French 75 or the Kir Royale, and dance the night away to some live music.
After all, traveling like a local in Paris is all about getting off the beaten path and exploring the city’s hidden gems. Whether you’re exploring a local market, biking along the Seine, or enjoying a picnic in a park, you’ll get to experience the city like a true Parisian. So the next time you visit the city of lights, be sure to take some time to explore the local side of Paris.