Are you traveling to Paris alone for the first time? It can be quite overwhelming, but trust me it doesn’t have to be!
After my recent trip to the famed City of Lights, I curated a solo travel “survival guide” perfect for any solo traveler heading to Paris on their own!
You can expect all the detailed information you will not find by scrolling the forums or asking friends.
I’ll cover the nitty gritty details from how to get to and from the airport(s), where you should and SHOULD NOT stay as well as everything you don’t want to miss!
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Which Paris Airport Should You Fly Into?
I found flying to Orly Airport (ORY) very convenient! This airport is the closest to the city center, only 8 miles away.
Charles de Gaulle International Airport is the second closest only 15 miles from the city center of Paris.
Then there is Beauvais-Tillé Airport (BVA), the furthest away at 53 miles from the center.
Personally, I would pay more to fly to the closest airport, especially if you are short on time. As the saying goes, time is money!
Arriving in Paris Alone & Getting to The Center
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.
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.
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.
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, and only when you are going from the airport to the city. Otherwise, use the machines at the bus 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?
Common question: If I’m in Paris solo, will I be safe taking transit???
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 a big city, you need to always keep an eye on your personal belongings!
Get the Navigo Card
One of the best tips I received when going to Paris was to get the Navigo card and pair it with the Bonjour RATP app.
You will need to buy the physical card at any of the machines in the Metro stations.
Select this option when buying a day pass for zones 1 &2 on your first day.
The card itself costs €2 and once you have it you can EASILY reload it from the app which makes life so much easier!
Use Transit Apps For Directions to Exit the Station
I feel silly to admit this, but until recently I didn’t notice that Google Maps actually tells you which exit to use when leaving the metro station.
As you can see below the signs in the station correspond with the information online.
Walking:
Paris is a great city to explore by foot! Put on some comfortable shoes, use City Mapper, not Google Maps, and find your way around.
City Mapper is actually better than Google Maps in so many ways! It gives you smart options to get to your destination as well as gives you the calorie burn amount which I think is pretty neat.
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.
Top Things To Do Alone in Paris
When planning your solo trip to Paris Itinerary, I imagine you will want to hit all the iconic spots am I right?
I admit, they are very touristy, but honestly, 100% worth visiting on your first trip to Paris.
Here are the quintessential things to do in Paris solo…
Visit The Eiffel Tower
Visiting the Eiffel Tower is epic, and in my opinion, a little more fun if you are with a group.
That is why I highly recommend visiting the Eiffel Tower with this affordable guided tour option!
It is a great way to meet other travelers, solo or not, I always end up making a friend.
Stroll Along the Seine River
Simple, but magical. I had to pinch myself when I walked along the Seine, which is a quintessential Parisian experience.
The riverbanks are a UNESCO World Heritage site and offer stunning views of many of Paris’ famous landmarks.
It’s a perfect spot for some peaceful reflection or to enjoy a good book from one of the iconic bouquinistes (second-hand book stalls).
Explore the Musée du Louvre
I’m not the world’s biggest museum person, but even I would insist that you visit the Louvre! Did you know it’s the world’s largest art museum?
As a solo traveler, I would consider downloading an audio guide or joining a small group tour to enhance your visit.
The most famous masterpieces here are the Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo!
🎟️ Get Your Ticket Now: Louvre Museum Timed Entry Ticket
Wander Through Montmartre
Montmartre is an artistic and soulful neighborhood outside the city center. You’ll find charming streets, stunning views from the Sacré-Cœur Basilica, and a lot of hills!
From the center of the city, you are looking at about a 30-minute metro ride that is absolutely worth the trip!
Montmartre has several idyllic cafes including La Maison Rose which is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. Spend an afternoon in the Place du Tertre just sipping cafe au laites and taking pictures.
Visit the Musée d’Orsay
Housed in a grand former railway station, the Musée d’Orsay is a great place to visit if you are into Impressionist and Post-Impressionist masterpieces.
It’s less overwhelming than the Louvre and offers a fantastic artistic experience, particularly if you enjoy works by Monet, Degas, and Van Gogh.
Explore the Luxembourg Gardens
The Jardin du Luxembourg is one of the best places to visit in Paris on a sunny day! It is famously featured in the show, Emily in Paris, one of my favorites.
The Luxembourg Gardens are free to explore, but if you want to visit the Musée du Luxembourg there is a fee.
Take Yourself Out For Tea & Cake
Go on a little date with yourself solo in Paris at Le Jardin de Mademoiselle!
Located in the 7th Arrondissement, this adorable little tea and cake shop does an excellent high tea.
It’s the perfect spot to treat yourself to something sweet on a mid-afternoon in Paris!
Shopping at Galeries Lafayette
A wonderful way to enjoy some solo time in Paris is by indulging in a bit of retail therapy at Galeries Lafayette!
It’s a famous upscale department store in Paris known for its wide selection of high-end goods, ranging from fashion to beauty products, and even gourmet food.
It’s well-known for its stunning architecture, including a remarkable stained-glass dome.
Even if you don’t plan to buy anything I insist you visit the top floor which leads to a rooftop observation deck with views of the Eiffel Tower!
Go To A Moulin Rouge Show
Attending a Moulin Rouge show can be super fun, even if you’re on your own! It’s on the pricier side of things to do in Paris, but hey, you are worth it.
After the show, since the area can get a bit iffy late at night, it’s a good idea to take a taxi or Uber back to your accommodation.
This ensures you’ll end your fabulous evening on a safe and comfortable note!
Common Scams in Paris to Watch Out For
As a solo traveler, it’s important to stay informed about common scams you might encounter in Paris.
While there’s no need for alarm, maintaining vigilance can help you navigate these challenges.
Here are some of the most frequent scams that I’ve been cautioned against and have observed firsthand.
Tie A String on Your Finger
Look out for anyone who innocently walks up to you and starts talking about a tradition where in their culture tying a string around your finger means good luck, or health, or whatever.
Look away, ignore, and just keep walking.
They want to either distract you so that someone can pick-pocket you or they will ask you for money.
🕵🏻♀️ I witnessed this just at the base of the stairs that lead to the Sacré-Cœur Basilica.
Woman With A Clipboard
Similar to the scam above, these women will walk right up to you asking you to sign something.
The scam is usually someone nearby who is ready to pickpocket you once they have your attention and you are distracted.
🕵🏻♀️ I saw this several times around the Eiffel Tower.
Find The Ball Under the Cup and Win a Prize
The scam involves a scammer using three cups or shells and a small ball. They’ll deftly shuffle the ball under the cups, challenging onlookers to guess its location.
Initially, to attract a crowd and build trust, accomplices—posing as unsuspecting tourists—will play and win, creating an illusion of simplicity and fairness.
However, once a real tourist bets money, the scammer uses sleight of hand to ensure the tourist loses.
This might include quick, misleading movements or even removing the ball from under the cups subtly.
The game, rigged from the start, is designed to entice tourists with the prospect of easy money but ends up swindling them instead.
🕵🏻♀️ I witnessed this happening on the stairs of Place du Trocadero, a popular spot with views of the Eiffel Tower.
Best Area to Stay in Paris for Solo Travelers
Paris neighborhoods are organized arrondissements, the closer to the center, the lower the number.
You can also bank on the closer to the center the more expensive the hotels will be.
I stayed in the 9th and 10th arrondissements on my solo trip to Paris. While I thought the 10th was convenient and a cool place to stay, I can’t say enough good things about staying in the 9th!
My hotel of choice is Hotel Sascha! It is a quiet, boutique-style hotel in a neighborhood I am absolutely in love with!
The price was also reasonable (compared to hotels in the US). I paid around $150 per night in the month of April.
Alternative areas to stay in solo in Paris are:
Le Marais
Le Marais is a vibe for sure. Located in the 4th arrondissement, it is also referred to as the SoMa. Go on any social media platform and you’ll see 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.
One of my favorite restaurants, Chez Janou, is located in Le Marais! They have bar seating which is ideal for solo travelers!
Le Marais is also 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 the 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.
This neighborhood offers Instagramable worthy streets to wander, upscale boutiques, art galleries, and renowned institutions like the Musée d’Orsay.
The central location of this neighborhood makes it a super convenient base for exploring Paris.
Areas to Avoid Staying As A Solo Traveler
Paris is mostly a safe city for tourists, including solo travelers. However, some areas might require extra vigilance, especially at night.
In my travels, I tend to be cautious in the northern parts of the 18th and 19th arrondissement.
These areas, particularly around the Porte de la Chapelle and Gare du Nord experience crime, and can feel a bit edgy due to the bustling traffic and crowded streets.
Although they have their charms by day, places like Château Rouge and Barbès are known for being a bit more hectic and might not be the best places for solo travelers looking for a quiet evening stroll.
Remember, every city has its nuances, and Paris is no exception. It’s all about finding the spots that make you feel comfortable and enjoying what this beautiful city has to offer!
What to Pack For A Trip To Paris
Now, I know I don’t need to state the obvious, like pack clothes per the season you are visiting, but I there are a few essentials:
- comfortable walking shoes for exploring the city streets
- Shampoo for hard water like this one from Ion
- a simple black dress that goes with everything
- Leggings are easy to pack
- 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)
- Use a small suitcase like Level8 to comply with European Airlines
Remember you might want to actually buy clothes there and bring them home so consider leaving a little room in the suitcase.
Don’t forget the basic essentials like travel documents, a copy of your passport, and any necessary medication.
Best Paris Tours for Solo Travellers
When I travel solo I always try to join a couple of tours if I have the time. It is the best way to make new friends!
In Paris, I joined a few that I would recommend!
- Day Trip to Mount Saint Michel – It’s a long full day off the beaten path, but well worth it! I made a friend on the bus that I spent the day with.
- Bike tour to Versailles! – You can always just go to Versailles alone on the train from Paris, but I highly recommend going on a bike tour!
Wrapping Up & Where to After Paris?
Now that I wrap up this guide to Paris, I hope you have found it helpful in your planning a trip to Paris alone!
If you have more time to explore France on your own, might I suggest a trip to Bordeaux!?
You can spend a few days in Bordeaux by taking the train from Paris in under 3 hours! Bordeaux is a wonderful smaller city to visit alone if you are interested in art, food, and wine tasting!
TRAVELING TO FRANCE? YOU ALSO MIGHT LIKE:
- Visit the nearby city of Toulouse
- Solo Trip Weekend in Paris Guide
- How To Go From Marseille to Cannes Guide + Map
- 3 Best Saint Emilion Wine Tours
- Is Mont Saint Michel Worth Visiting?
- Cost Guide for a Solo Trip to Paris
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