Having visited Paris almost 40 times, I’ve gathered many smart Paris travel tips to help make each trip smoother, more enjoyable, and less stressful. Along the way, I’ve learned what works, what doesn’t, and how to avoid common pitfalls. Whether you’re a first-time visitor, a returning traveler, or even my sister—who’s about to experience Paris for the first time—these tips will help you navigate the city with confidence and ease.
Tip #1: Bring More Than One Credit Card
Bring two credit cards (Visa + Mastercard) since some places accept only one—I once needed a Mastercard for a Roissybus ticket.
Keep a backup card in a hidden money belt or separate wallet in case the first one doesn’t work, is stolen, or is compromised.. Also, carry a debit card for ATM withdrawals.
Tip #2: Bring Just A Little Cash (Euros)
(a) How Much Cash To Bring To Paris?
Paris is card-friendly, but carry some cash (for café tips and public toilets). For 5 nights, I’d bring ~125€.
Key Tips:
- Stick to 20€ bills—avoid 50€ and 100€.
- Skip airport ATMs—higher fees, large withdrawals.
- Need coins? Break a 20€ at a café.
- There’s no tipping in France—service is included (service compris). If service is exceptional, round up your bill or leave 1-2€ in coins.
- Ignore waiter pressure—if they claim service” n’est pas compris”, they’re lying!
(b) Getting More Cash In Paris
Need cash? Use an ATM, but expect foreign transaction fees. I now prefer La Poste ATMs after being double-charged at BNP Paribas. Others have had similar issues—check the comments in my post about my fight to get my money back: Encountering Credit and Debit Card Problems In France.
(c) Where To Exchange Funds In Paris
I go to Yes Exchange (also known as “Change and Collection”) located off rue du Louvre to change money into Euro. I found their rates to be not bad.
Address: 1, rue Rouget de Lisle
Website: https://www.yes-change.com/
Tip #3: Use Apple Pay Or Google Pay
Use your smartphone to pay for purchases and meals (and even at local farmer’s markets). Just tap using Apple Pay or Google Pay. They are safer and more secure than using a physical credit or debit card as your Face ID, Touch ID, or passcode is required to approve payments. Advanced encryption protects your payment information.
Check out this post about the proper etiquette in France and how NOT to embarrass yourself with the wrong words or actions:
Tip #4: Use A Crossbody Bag
In Paris, like many big cities, there is pick pocketing, so you need to keep your valuables secured and hidden. I keep an extra credit card and important notes in a money belt and/or in a secure crossbody bag which is RFID protected.
Extra Tips:
- Consider using a carabiner if your bag doesn’t have a secure clasp or lock. They make it just a bit harder for someone to unzip your bag.
- Create your own RFID cover by using a piece of foil glued to paper. Wrap it around your credit card. Be sure to check out this post on keeping your valuables and tech safe: Tips To Protect Your Valuables And Tech Travelling.
Tip #5: Use Taxis (And Occasionally Uber)
I had a bad experience using Uber going from Paris to the airport. The amount that was to be charged changed due to dynamic pricing—-this is where the price changes depending on the demand. I paid a lot more than if I had just used a taxi.
Since then, I only use the company, G7, to go to the airport (they have an app).
Extra Tips:
-Avoid using a taxi during rush hour. You’ll be in traffic too long to make it worthwhile.
-Use the taxi line at the airport. Do not go with someone who approaches you and says they have a taxi around the corner as they are often not legitimate and will rip you off. -Taxis between Paris and the airport have flat rates. Check out this post to find out more about your options: Charles de Gaulle airport to Paris: Cheaper isn’t always better.
Tip #6: Navigate the Paris Metro Like a Pro
The Paris metro is so well laid out that it’s a breeze to use. When you arrive, get a Navigo Easy Card. You’ll just add money to it and your trips will be deducted from your total. Check out this post for more information: Using The Paris Metro.
Safety Tip: I avoid taking my smartphone out when I am on the Paris Metro and certainly NEVER take it out if I am sitting near the door. I have heard stories of people having their phones ripped out of their hands when the doors open and the thief runs out with it.
Tip #7: Bring Two+ Pairs Of Shoes
Bring comfortable shoes—-at least 2 pairs and prepare yourself by getting in shape now and walking a lot. You’re going to walk A LOT in Paris. Switch shoes each day.
One year I wore stylish shoes with NO support except my orthotics inside. From all that walking in crappy shoes (and doing a 20km race), I got a stress fracture in my foot soon after returning home!
Tip #8: Check Out The Pharmacies For Skincare Products
The pharmacies in France are unlike any you’ll find in North America. Looking for skincare and beauty products? Head to a pharmacy, but not just any pharmacy. You’ll find an ENORMOUS selection of well known products such as Vichy, Clarins, Avène, Caudalie, Bioderma, and Nuxe at these three stores listed below. I like to stock up on La Roche-Posay for my sunscreen and saved almost 50% compared to what I pay in Canada.
While the first pharmacy is the most famous, the second and third to be less crowded and can have great deals too, especially when there are sales. I find their locations very convenient.
(a) Citypharma
Popular and often packed, with great prices and helpful staff—though items sell out fast.
Address: 26 Rue du Four (6th arrondissement)
(b) Pharmacie du Forum Des Halles
Spacious, well-stocked, and carries everyday essentials like toothbrushes and lip balm. Located in Les Halles’ underground shopping area.
Address: Level -2, 1 Rue Pierre Lescot (1st arrondissement)
(c) Pharmacie des Archives
Great selection, sometimes with products not found elsewhere. I always check for promotions here. Conveniently near Hôtel de Ville and BHV.
Address: 2 Rue des Archives (4th arrondissement)
Tip #9: Consider These Museums For Fashion Lovers
When my fashion-loving nieces and sister visit Paris, these museums are worth checking out:
(a) La Galerie Dior-New exhibition starts after May 4. Notes about my visit: Trip #36
(b) Musée Yves Saint Laurent—New exhibition also after May 4. My trip report: YSL Museum
(c) Palais Galliera-Musée de la Mode de Paris-Home to 100,000+ fashion pieces. Free permanent collection. Current exhibit (Fashion on the Move) explores fashion adapting to movement and runs until October. I saw the “Les Années 50” exhibit here years ago, showcasing 1950s fashion and it was excellent but no photography was allowed.
(d) Petit Palais: House of Worth exhibition (May 7–Sept 7, 2025). Permanent collection is free; temporary exhibits require tickets.
(e) Musée des Arts Décoratifs-More than furniture! Spring 2025 focuses on Nicolas Pineau (sculptor/architect) & Jacques-Émile Ruhlmann (decorator).
Want more ideas for your stay in Paris? Check out these posts:
Unique Experiences In Paris
Exploring Paris
Tip #10: Decide If Visiting the Top of the Eiffel Tower Is Worth It
Should you go to the top of the Eiffel Tower? I realize it’s a personal choice; however, I didn’t go to the top until it was my 6th trip to Paris! It was August, hot and crowded, and in my journal I actually wrote, “At 10pm walked to the Eiffel Tower and spent 2.5 hours in line, [and going] up and down. It was horrid!”
(a) How To Get Tickets For The Eiffel Tower
- Online tickets for the summit open 60 days in advance and sell out fast—set an alarm for Paris time to join the queue.
- Same-day tickets may be available on your phone.
- Stairs access: lines are sometimes shorter if you climb.
- Skip-the-line tours: convenient but pricey.
(b) Important To Note
- Expect crowds and a rushed experience.
- At the top, you’ll get city views, not Eiffel Tower photos. Consider saving the summit for another trip. -If you’re looking for panoramic views of Paris, consider these spots instead—they offer stunning views day and night. More details in my post: Best Views Of Paris At Night:
- Tour Montparnasse
- Galeries Lafayette
- Printemps (my favourite!)
- Arc de Triomphe
For First-timers And Repeat Visitors To Paris
Here are some other posts that might be helpful, whether you are a first-timer or a repeat visitor to Paris:
Each trip to Paris has taught me something new. I’ve made many mistakes but have also learned how to navigate and enjoy the city. I hope my practical tips were helpful and wish my sister and her daughters a fabulous trip to Paris in May!
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