Feeling overwhelmed at the thought of planning a solo trip to Paris? Don’t fret—I’ve got you covered with the ultimate solo weekend guide, packed with all the insider tips and lessons I learned the hard way.
This is your shortcut to avoiding common pitfalls and ensuring a smooth, unforgettable adventure!
Why trust my advice? I’ve navigated solo travel in over 40 countries, learning each city’s secrets, especially Paris.
Despite its “City of Love” fame, Paris is a solo traveler’s dream, filled with unforgettable food, art, and architecture. Inspired by tales like “Emily in Paris,” more solo explorers are discovering its charm.
This guide cuts through the noise, offering you a curated path to what to do alone in Paris, without the loneliness often feared in such a big city.
Ready for a weekend filled with the essence of Parisian life? Let’s make your solo journey as fun and seamless as the city itself.
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Where Is Paris & How To Get Here
Paris, the world-renowned capital, sits in the north-central part of France. Its location and status as a major European hub make it exceptionally accessible for travelers.
Depending on the airport you land at, several public transit options are available to seamlessly connect you to the heart of Paris.
Upon my first arrival in Paris, navigating my way to the city center felt daunting. And, while I managed it with no problem, there are some things to consider.
🛑 I don’t recommend taking transit alone from the airport to the city if any of the following apply!
- It’s late at night
- You don’t regularly take public transit in your home city
- It’s your first time traveling solo
- You have a lot of luggage
- The flight took more than 4 hours to get to Paris.
I am not suggesting you avoid transit the whole trip, just consider alternatives for the arrival. Don’t try to be a transit hero on your first day and start the trip having bitten off more than you can chew.
Paris Airport Transit Options Breakdown
Paris is served by three major airports: Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG), Orly Airport (ORY), and Beauvais-Tillé Airport (BVA).
Here’s how to reach the city center from each of these airports:
Public Transportation from Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) to the city center:
Charles de Gaulle Airport is the largest and busiest airport in Paris, located about 25 kilometers (15 miles) northeast of the city center.
By RER (Suburban Train):
- Follow the signs to the RER train station inside the airport (usually located near Terminal 2 or Terminal 3).
- Take the RER B line (blue line) heading towards Robinson or Saint-Rémy-lès-Chevreuse.
- Travel to one of the central Paris stations, such as Gare du Nord, Châtelet-Les Halles, or Saint-Michel Notre-Dame, depending on your destination.
By Roissybus:
- Roissybus operates a direct service between CDG Airport and Paris-Opéra (near the city center).
- The bus runs at regular intervals, and the journey takes approximately 60 to 75 minutes, depending on traffic. Get your tickets online here!
- 🚌 Look for the Roissybus stop outside the terminals.
By Private Transfer
PRO TIP: 💁♀️ If you are a first-time visitor solo traveler and don’t feel comfortable navigating public transit alone, book an airport transfer. I always use Get Transfer because of their rates and reliable service.
From Orly Airport (ORY):
Orly Airport is the second-largest airport in Paris, located about 13 kilometers (8 miles) south of the city center.
Orlyval and RER (Suburban Train):
- Take the Orlyval automated light rail from the airport to Antony station.
- At Antony, transfer to the RER B line (blue line) heading towards Charles de Gaulle Airport or Mitry-Claye.
- Get off at your desired central Paris station, such as Châtelet-Les Halles or Saint-Michel Notre-Dame.
By Orlybus:
- Orlybus offers direct service between Orly Airport and Denfert-Rochereau station in Paris.
- The bus departs at regular intervals, and the journey takes around 30 to 40 minutes.
- Tickets cost 11.50 Euros. You can buy on the bus IF you have cash. Otherwise, use the machines at the stop.
By Airport Shuttle:
Like CDG Airport, you can also find private shuttle services from Orly Airport to various locations in Paris.
From Beauvais-Tillé Airport (BVA):
Beauvais Airport is the farthest from the city center, located about 85 kilometers (53 miles) north of Paris. Of course, this is where a lot of the budget airlines fly into, like Ryanair.
💁♀️ I would pay a little extra to fly into the other two airports to save yourself some time on the transit!
By Shuttle Bus:
- Several companies operate shuttle buses between Beauvais Airport and Porte Maillot station in Paris.
- The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 30 minutes, depending on traffic.
By Train:
- Take the airport shuttle bus from Beauvais Airport to Beauvais train station.
- From the train station, you can catch a train to Gare du Nord station in Paris.
- The train journey takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes.
- Once you arrive in the city center, you can easily connect to other parts of Paris using the city’s extensive public transportation system, including buses, trams, and the Metro.
Parisian public transit is generally efficient, safe, and cost-effective, making it a convenient way to explore the city.
Is It Safe To Take Transit Alone in Paris?
Traveling Paris solo, will I be safe on trainsit??? The short answer is YES! But this is a big city, where you do need to be mindful.
I used the well-connected public transportation system alone as well as walked the streets at night by myself. Navigating Paris was easy because I prepared myself ahead of time.
If this is your first time traveling alone, it is a good idea to map out your transit in advance!
Pro Tip: Even though I found Paris to be safe, I ALWAYS recommend getting travel insurance to avoid any mishaps. Lost luggage or getting sick can happen at any time.
Here are some tips for using the inner city transit:
Metro:
The Paris Metro is the go-to method of transportation in the City of Lights. It has many lines that can quickly take you to different neighborhoods and attractions.
Paris Transit App:
- 📲 Transit App for Andriod (Bonjour RATP)
- 📲 Transit App for Apple (Bonjour RATP)
Just be vigilant when at the metro station. As with many other metros in metropolitan cities, you need to always keep an eye on your personal belongings!
Walking:
Parison your own is a great city to explore on foot. Put on some comfortable shoes, use Google Maps, and find your way. Walking allows you to discover hidden gems and soak in the city’s atmosphere.
If you are out walking after dark, keep drinking to a minimum and Always be aware of your surroundings. Avoid the obvious, like strolling in dark alleys alone after too many glasses of wine!
Taxis:
If your feet are burning from a day of exploring you can get a taxi! I used an app called G7, but you can also try Free Now, although they have fewer taxis.
Keep in mind that taxi prices may be higher during busy times or in heavy traffic.
Is there Uber in Paris?
YES! There is Uber in Paris. Uber operates in several cities in France such as Bordeaux, Toulouse, Lyon, Nice, Strasbourg and more! For a full list check out the official website.
📲 Downloadable Map of Paris
📍 Download my pre-pinned Google map of all the best locations in this post!
My favorite restaurants, bars, hotels and top sights are all saved and ready to use!
👩🏻💻 Need Help Planning Your Trip? Get a customized itinerary!
Is the City of Paris Safe for Solo Female Travelers?
Paris is generally considered safe for solo travelers and I didn’t feel unsafe at any time. If you are wondering how to travel alone in Paris, just behave like you would in any major city.
You know the drill, exercise caution, and be aware of your surroundings.
It’s those crowded tourist areas and public transportation that you want to be mindful of.
As long as you use common sense and stick to well-lit and populated areas you will be fine. Leave the valuable items at home and be cautious of pickpockets.
My best advice is don’t make yourself stand out and carry flashy items such as high-end designer bags like Louis Vuitton when you are walking around in a city you aren’t familiar with.
It is a good idea to be understated rather than attract attention.
Solo Female Travel Safety Gear
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Want to protect your valuables anywhere? This portable safe will do the trick!
Being connected makes me feel safe! Get a portable Wi-Fi device and have the internet everywhere!
I don’t care how safe the city is, things happen. I always get travel insurance anytime I travel!
Download 13 must-have travel apps for women
Emergency Numbers
Emergency Number in Europe: Dial 112 & Emergency Number in the United States: Dial 911
Things You Might Like To Do In Paris By Season
Spring
- Paris Fashion Week (Late February to Early March): Witness the latest trends from top designers at one of the most prestigious fashion events in the world.
- Marché des Fleurs Reine Elizabeth II (March to May): Explore the beautiful flower market on the Île de la Cité, renamed in honor of Queen Elizabeth II, perfect for those who appreciate nature’s beauty.
- Foire du Trône (April to June): Enjoy one of Europe’s oldest and largest funfairs, offering thrilling rides, games, and traditional food.
Summer
- Fête de la Musique (June 21): Celebrate the summer solstice with free music performances of all genres across the city.
- Paris Jazz Festival (June to July): Relax in the Parc Floral de Paris and enjoy jazz concerts in a beautiful setting.
- Bastille Day (July 14): Experience France’s National Day with spectacular fireworks over the Eiffel Tower, military parades, and parties throughout the city.
Autumn
- Nuit Blanche (First Saturday of October): An all-night arts festival where museums, galleries, and even city streets become venues for art installations and performances.
- Montmartre Grape Harvest Festival (October): Celebrate the wine harvest in the heart of Paris’s most bohemian district, with tastings, parades, and cultural events.
- Paris Chocolate Fair (Late October to Early November): Indulge in chocolate creations from the world’s best chocolatiers and pastry chefs.
Winter
- Paris Illuminations (Late November to January): Marvel at the city’s Christmas lights and decorations. The Champs-Elysées is particularly spectacular.
- Christmas Markets (Late November to December): Visit traditional markets for holiday gifts, mulled wine, and festive treats. The market at Tuileries Garden is one of the largest.
- New Year’s Eve in Paris (December 31): Ring in the New Year with fireworks and celebrations at iconic spots like the Champs-Elysées or Montmartre.
A Tailor-Made Solo Trip to Paris Itinerary
The itinerary below is the itinerary I had for my quick trip to Paris! it is a full day packed with the most exciting sights in the city!
Short weekend breaks to Paris can be more relaxed than the suggested itinerary, just do exactly what you want!
Day 1
Morning:
Grab a croissant and cappicouno at Terres de Café. The cafe is an 8-minute walk from your first stop this morning!
Eiffel Tower
Start your Parisian adventure by visiting the iconic Eiffel Tower early in the morning to is a great way to avoid crowds. Take an elevator ride to the top for breathtaking views of the city. I recommend booking this guided tour in advance or getting a skip-the-line ticket.
Learn all about Gustave Eiffel the engineer behind the design and construction of the Eiffel Tower. One of the most iconic landmarks in the world, which stands tall in the heart of Paris.
If you have a fear of heights, then you can skip going to the top, and just wander around the grounds!
Eiffel Tower Guided Tour with Summit Option
Book this 75-minute Guided Tour with a summit option of the Eiffel Tower.
Afternoon:
Louvre Museum
Head to the Louvre Museum! It is a beautiful building and a great place with a vast collection of art and historical treasures.
Spend the afternoon on a quick 2-hour visit to the Louvre exploring world-famous masterpieces like the Mona Lisa and Venus de Milo.
Get The Paris Museum Pass
Visit more than 60 of the top museums with this 2, 4, or 6 day pass!
After the Louvre have a late afternoon at Maison Maison! The best part of my trip was enjoying the French cuisine. I loved this place for its little neck clams.
Later, if the weather is nice, a great place to check out between the Louvre Museum and Place de la Concorde is the Tuileries Garden. It is a 15-minute walk from Maison Maison.
Here you will find a picturesque public park with immaculate lawns, beautiful flowerbeds, and sculptures, providing a peaceful escape in the heart of the city.
Or alternatively, you could visit Rue de Rivoli, one of the most famous streets in Paris, Rue de Rivoli is known for its upscale shopping!
Evening:
Seine River Cruise
Unwind with a relaxing evening cruise on a boat ride on the Seine River. Enjoy the illuminated beauty of Paris landmarks such as Notre-Dame Cathedral and the Louvre from the water.
Sail by the Pont Neuf, which despite its name meaning “New Bridge,” Pont Neuf is actually the oldest standing bridge across the Seine River. It has historical significance and offers splendid views of the river and surrounding landmarks.
I recommend this great gourmet river cruise with dinner and live music! Joining this cruise is also a great opportunity to make friends!
Gourmet Dinner Cruise on the Seine River with Live Music
This is the perfect 2.5 hour cruise on the Seine River.
Day 2
Morning
On my second morning in Paris, I started my day like a true Parisian, indulging in a typical breakfast of freshly baked croissants and a frothy cappuccino at a charming local café.
Visit Shakespeare and Company Cafe just a 3-minute walk from Notre Dame Cathedral!
Notre Dame Cathedral
Begin your day with a visit to the magnificent Notre Dame Cathedral. Admire its stunning Gothic architecture and get pictures!
Please note: The interior of the Notre Dame Cathedral is set to open to the public on the 8th of December 2024.
Afternoon
Montmartre
From the Norte Dame, you should go check out the charming neighborhood of Montmartre. Montmartre is famous for its iconic white-domed Basilica of the Sacré-Coeur, which sits atop a hill and offers stunning views of the city.
To get to Montmartre from Norte Dame you are looking at either an hour’s walk or a 30-minute ride on the metro line M4.
Montmartre is known for its artistic past, bohemian atmosphere, and picturesque streets. It’s a great place to explore and experience the artistic and cultural side of Paris.
If you are ready for lunch a great restaurant for solo dining is Le Cabanon de la Butte.
Here I can recommend the fish! If you are vegetarian or vegan, this place might not work for you. Instead try, Uban Greener!
Père Lachaise Cemetery
After lunch take the Metro line 2 thirty minutes to the Père Lachaise Cemetery. Alternatively, you can walk to Père Lachaise Cemetery in one hour or a short taxi ride.
Père Lachaise Cemetery is one of the most famous cemeteries in the world and serves as the final resting place for many notable figures, including Oscar Wilde, Jim Morrison, and Frédéric Chopin.
Evening
Moulin Rouge
When going to Paris alone on a Saturday evening why not book a show at the Moulin Rouge! ?Enjoy a captivating cabaret show and indulge in a delectable French dinner.
You can opt out of dinner at the Moulin Rouge, but I suggest out of convenience you book with dinner. It was not the best meal I’ve ever had, but it was totally enjoyable.
If a night at the theatre is out of your budget or just not your thing, you might enjoy a swing through the spookier side of the capital with one of these Paris ghost tours.
Day 3
Morning
Visit the famous Café Le Carré Élysée for breakfast before you start your final day!
Petit Palis Museum
After breakfast, you will visit the Petit Palais in Paris. This magnificent museum, nestled in the heart of the City of Lights, showcases an impressive collection of fine arts, including paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts from the 19th and 20th centuries.
I was so impressed with the grand facade, adorned with intricate details and sculptures, especially the Belle Époque architecture.
Inside, the museum’s vast galleries offer a journey through the works of renowned artists like Monet, Delacroix, and Rodin, among others.
From stunning Impressionist masterpieces to exquisite Art Nouveau artifacts, the Petit Palais presents a diverse array of artistic expressions.
The museum is open from 10 am to 6 pm daily except closed Mondays.
Afternoon
Champs-Élysées and Arc de Triomphe
Visiting the Champs-Élysées and Arc de Triomphe is a quintessential Parisian experience that every solo traveler should have on their weekend itinerary.
The elegant Champs-Élysées avenue stretches from the Place de la Concorde to the Arc de Triomphe, lined with all those iconic landmarks you came to Paris to see! Not to mention those high-end boutiques and charming cafes straight out of a movie.
As one of the most famous streets in the world, the Champs-Élysées offers an enchanting ambiance for leisurely strolls and window shopping.
NOTE: The Arc de Triomphe is open daily from 10 AM to 10:15 PM.
Evening
Seine Riverbanks and City Lights
End your weekend with a leisurely stroll along the Seine Riverbanks. Take in the beauty of the illuminated city and iconic landmarks before bidding Paris adieu.
Have dinner in the Latin Quarter, also known as where Emily in Paris lives! A vibrant and historic neighborhood located on the left bank of the Seine River.
Known for its bohemian atmosphere and intellectual legacy, it is home to the Sorbonne University and offers a delightful array of bookshops, cafes, and charming streets.
A great place for dinner is Le Prince Racine! Here I recommend literally everything!!
An Alternative Last Day in Paris
Palace of Versailles
Take a day trip to the opulent Palace of Versailles. Marvel at the grandeur of the Hall of Mirrors and stroll through the stunning gardens.
Palace of Versailles & Gardens w/ Transportation
Book this 5.5-9.5 hour Full Day tour to Versailles.
Customizing this itinerary to suit your own preferences will allow you to fully experience the captivating atmosphere of Paris and create lasting memories.
I loved exploring this city alone doing and eating whatever I wanted at the moment. Paris truly lived up to its reputation as the City of Light.
This itinerary should hopefully answer any questions about what to do for a weekend in Paris! But if you find yourself with more time, there are a lot of day trips you can take by train from Paris to nearby cities!
Feel free to customize this itinerary to match your interests and preferences. This way, you can create a truly unique and memorable Parisian adventure.
How To Manage Solo Trip to Paris Cost
The cost of a weekend trip to Paris can vary depending on various factors, including accommodation, transportation, dining choices, and activities.
While it ultimately depends on individual preferences and spending habits, a rough estimate for a weekend trip to Paris could be around €1000 or more. I use a travel budget calculator to help plan my trips.
Accommodation
- The cost of accommodations in Paris can vary significantly based on factors such as location, type of accommodation, and the time of year.
- You can opt for a hostel or budget hotel, so prepare from something like €50 to €300 or more per night. Since you are on a solo weekend trip I would splurge a little and look for something in the best neighborhoods.
Flights
- The cost of flights to Paris will depend on where you fly and which airline. My favorite way to book travel is with Skyscanner! This is how I find the best deals for last-minute trips.
Transportation
- Getting around Paris can be affordable with options like the Paris Metro and very expensive with Taxis.
- For a 1-day pass for Zone 1-3 the cost is 13.20€ and for Zone 1-5 27.80€.
Meals
- France is renowned for its cuisine, and solo dining experiences can range from budget-friendly street food to fine dining. Plan to pay around €20 to €50 per meal.
Money-Saving Tips for a Solo Weekend in Paris
- Accommodation: Opt for hostels, guesthouses, or Airbnb rooms in less touristy neighborhoods for better rates and a more authentic experience.
- Transportation: Use public transport (Metro, buses) instead of taxis. Consider purchasing a Navigo Découverte pass for unlimited travel in a week.
- Dining: Eat like a local by visiting bakeries for breakfast, markets for lunch, and opting for the “plat du jour” at bistros for dinner. Avoid dining in tourist areas.
- Sightseeing: Take advantage of free museum days (first Sunday of the month for many museums) and visit free attractions like Notre-Dame Cathedral and Sacré-Cœur.
- Picnics: Shop at local markets and grocery stores for picnic supplies and enjoy meals in beautiful parks like the Luxembourg Gardens or along the Seine.
- Walking Tours: Join free or pay-what-you-wish walking tours to explore and learn about the city from a local perspective.
- Discount Cards: Consider buying the Paris Museum Pass if you plan to visit many museums and monuments; it can save you both money and time.
- Nightlife: Look for happy hours in bars and free entry nights in clubs. Enjoy free concerts or outdoor events during the summer.
- Shopping: Avoid buying souvenirs in tourist spots. Instead, explore flea markets and brocantes for unique finds at lower prices.
- Communication: Use free Wi-Fi spots across the city and messaging apps to avoid international roaming charges.
Best Area to Stay in Paris for Solo Travelers
When it comes to choosing the best area to stay in Paris for solo travelers, two popular and highly recommended neighborhoods are Le Marais and Saint-Germain-des-Prés.
Le Marais
Le Marais is a vibe for sure. Located in the 4th arrondissement, it is also referred to as the SoMa. Known for its vibrant atmosphere and rich history, Le Marais is a favorite among solo travelers.
This central neighborhood offers a perfect blend of charming cobblestone streets, trendy boutiques, art galleries, and a lively nightlife scene if you are into that sort of thing.
Le Marais is well-connected by public transportation, perfect to use as a base to spend a weekend in Paris, allowing for easy exploration of other parts of the city.
Click Here For Hotels in Le Marais Neighborhood
Saint-Germain-des-Prés
Located in the 6th arrondissement on the Left Bank of the Seine, Saint-Germain-des-Prés has a bohemian and intellectual ambiance.
It has a rich literary and artistic heritage, with historic cafes like Café de Flore and Les Deux Magots that have hosted famous writers and philosophers.
The weekend in Paris can be very short and this neighborhood offers charming streets to wander, upscale boutiques, art galleries, and renowned institutions like the Musée d’Orsay.
As a solo female traveler in Paris, I appreciate the neighborhood of artistic and cultural heritage of the area.
The central location of this neighborhood makes it a super convenient base for exploring Paris.
Best Hotels For Solo Females in Paris
Here are the top two hotels that are perfect for any solo female traveler!
- Hotel Joe M ($$)
- Hotel Darcet ($)
What to Pack & Wear For 3 Days in Paris
Here are some key items to consider:
- comfortable walking shoes for exploring the city streets
- a simple black dress that goes with everything
- T-shirts, shorts, skirts
- versatile clothing suitable for layering (i love linen shirts!)
- a light jacket or sweater
- a stylish yet practical day bag
- a universal adapter for charging electronics
- an umbrella
- a reusable water bottle (yes, you can drink tap water in Paris)
Don’t forget essentials like travel documents, a copy of your passport, and any necessary medication.
Solo Travel Tips For Paris
Before I wrap up this weekend’s guide for traveling alone to Paris, I wanted to leave you with some helpful tips:
- Safety first: Paris is generally a safe city, but like any major city, there are some areas of Paris best to stay from. The neighborhoods to avoid in Paris are the 10th, 18th, and 19th arrondissements. Learn more on Numebo.
- Learn some basic French: While many Parisians speak English, making an effort to speak a few basic French phrases can go a long way in showing respect and appreciation for the local culture. Simple greetings like “Bonjour” (hello) and “Merci” (thank you) can make a positive impression.
- Choose accommodation wisely: Pick a centrally located and safe neighborhood to stay in. Popular areas for solo travelers include Le Marais, Saint-Germain-des-Prés, and Montmartre. Consider staying in a reputable hostel or a well-reviewed hotel to meet fellow travelers and potentially make some friends.
- Take guided tours: Best tip for solo travel in any city is to participate in guided tours, whether they are walking tours, museum tours, or food tours. Not only will you learn more about the city’s history and culture, but you’ll also have the chance to meet other travelers and share experiences.
- Stay connected: Having a mobile data plan or a portable Wi-Fi device can be beneficial for staying connected with maps, translation apps, and online resources while exploring the city.
Where to Next?
Another amazing city for solo female travel is Toulouse! It’s called “The Pink City” because of its beautiful pink buildings that look amazing in the sunset.
Toulouse has old, charming streets to explore and is known for space exploration too. You can visit museums about space and enjoy walks or bike rides by the river or the canal.
The city is friendly and easy to get around, with lots of cafes and markets to check out. It’s a safe and fun place for anyone wanting to experience the good life in the south of France.
Planning Trips to France?
READ MORE:
- Visit the nearby city of Toulouse
- Solo Trip Weekend in Paris Guide
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- 3 Best Saint Emilion Wine Tours