Discover Paris: Insider Tips & Hidden Gems

Discover 25 essential Paris travel tips, dos and don’ts for a safe, fun, and unforgettable visit. Insider advice for first-time and returning travelers.

Traveling to Paris in August? Skip the guesswork and avoid tourist traps! Discover what’s open in Paris this August with our local-approved 5x5 guide to food, coffee, drinks, museums, and more.

When you’re planning your trip to Paris, chances are you’re not prioritizing the 20e arrondissement - and we understand why. It’s out of the way, there aren’t many big tourist attractions… why bother? If you’re here for more than a few days, or you’ve been to Paris before, we’re here to tell you: It’s worth it. While there might not be massive churches or enticing museums, the 20e is where you can come to truly feel like a local. Relatively untouched by tourism so far, it feels the way the 11e once did. Young families hang out in the park, and side streets stay fairly quiet throughout the night. You can find incredible food, great nighttime vibes, and some of Paris’ most epic green spaces. It’s worth a visit (but perhaps grab an electric bike, if you choose to cycle up). Let’s get into it.

When you think of the 18e, your mind might go straight to Montmartre - and you wouldn’t be wrong to think that. The hill of Montmartre takes up much of this arrondissement, but not all of it. Around Montmartre you have some seriously up-and-coming bar and restaurant areas where you can find quite a range of tasty treats. On the actual hill, there are tons of nooks and crannies to discover - from hidden parks to various surprise statues to tucked away coffee shops. We’re going to take you through some of our recommendations for Montmartre and the 18e in general.

Ahh the 17e arrondissement of Paris. Quelle mystère! Okay, maybe it’s not mysterious per-se, but it’s definitely a bit of a zone of not-too-much-going-on-so-we-don’t-really-hang-out-there. That said, the 17e still has plenty to offer for locals, and certain travelers. So we’re going to help you maximize your time in the 17e district of Paris.

If it’s your first time in Paris then don’t make the 15e a priority - this city has a lot to offer and the 15e is very residential. But, if you’ve been here before, you might want to check it out because there’s some great stuff to see here and some excellent food hidden away.

Ah Paris 14e. The boring arrondissement. Home to a big old train station and a lot of corpses. There’s not much to eat, drink, or see here if we’re being honest. If you’re really looking to jam a full-day itinerary in, we’d recommend you stick to other arrondissements.

We don’t expect you to be hanging out in the 13e district of Paris if you’re visiting the city for the first or even really the fourth time. It’s pretty out of the way - far from any monuments, most of the best food and drink, and even from much of the classic Haussmanion architecture. However, perhaps you’re here because you want to get out of central Paris for something new, or maybe this is where your hotel or Airbnb are located. There are some great places to check out while you’re in the 13e, regardless of why you’re here. So let’s get into it.

Did someone say ’The best arrondissement in Paris?’ The beating heart of Paris’ food scene has recently landed in a new district. The 11e has taken the crown from the Marais, is the spot for food, drinks and some of the best coffee in town. This arrondissement used to be known for its nightlife, and if you’re looking for a party you will definitely find one here, but lately the food scene has been taking over the streets north of Bastille. Not just for foodies though, you’ll find some great alternative arts and culture here, as well as a few places for some peace and quiet. The 11e really has it all.

We love the 10e arrondissement of Paris and we know you’ll love it, too, once you get to know it! This neighborhood has so much to offer in the way of food and drink, while maintaining a bit of that local, residential energy in some areas and total party blocks in others. We’re not going to preface it with much - let’s dive right in.

Perhaps one of the most diverse arrondissements in all of Paris, in the 9e you can start the day with some luxury shopping and end it in the seedy belly of Paris’ red light district (if you so desire). Along the way are some of the best coffee shops in the city, amazing local bistros and the odd dive bar or two, of which we are particularly fond. Highlights include the Opera Garnier and the Rue des Martyrs (though we personally wouldn’t stay near the Opera house, just drop in for a visit.) There is plenty to do in the 9e. This blog will touch on a few recommendations, but if you’re interested in even more, be sure to grab our guide. You’ll get instant access to hundreds of recommendations across the city to ensure you have the best time possible in Paris.

Ah, the 8e arrondissement. The arrondissement that gets us into a fair bit of trouble for saying - why are you here? But we stand by that question. The 8e arrondissement is full of… not much of anything. A couple monuments, a sad and crowded shopping street, and a beautiful park. That’s about it. Sprinkle in truly next to no good food and coffee (except for wildly priced Michelin restaurants) and you’ve got yourself a wasted day.

When it comes to the 7e arrondissement of Paris, the important thing to keep in mind is that it’s mainly quiet streets between big attractions. You’ve got the Eiffel Tower, the Champs de Mars, Les Invalides, the Rodin Museum, the Orsay Museum, river views, and more. If you’re looking for a day filled with these things, this blog will help you to maximize your time in a neighborhood that has limited offerings for food, coffee, drinks, and instead fill it with general laid back vibes.

The 6e arrondissement is classic central Paris at its most elegant. The gem of the left bank, the 6e is a mix of literary history, cozy cafés, and art galleries. Home to the Luxembourg Gardens and Saint-Sulpice, this quartier is the Paris of daydreams. Our advice will always be this: Let yourself wander. This is a neighborhood best experienced at a relaxed pace, with detours through bookstores, long pauses in the sun, and stops in various galleries.

Welcome to the 5e arrondissement of Paris, where old-school Paris and student life collide. This neighborhood is lively, fun, and filled with bookstores.The 5e, which makes up the majority of the Latin Quarter (though it does spill over into the 6e!) is home to ancient Roman ruins, the Sorbonne, the Panthéon, and a museum full of dinosaur skeletons. And who doesn’t love dinosaurs?

If Paris were a board game, the 1er arrondissement would be the center square. Home to the Louvre, the Tuileries, and some of the postcard-esque places in the city, many people pass through this neighborhood for its big sights and sounds, but few take the time to really explore it well. It’s surprisingly calm in some parts, full to the brim with history, and worth some time spent lingering.

Discover the cozy magic of Paris in November, where the chillier days bring seasonal charm to life with festive lights, steamy mugs of vin chaud, and cultural highlights like the Paris Photo Exhibition and Beaujolais Nouveau celebrations. From museums and immersive light shows to jazz nights and Thanksgiving feasts, Paris offers a perfect blend of indoor and outdoor experiences this month. Whether you're looking for art, live music, or a taste of home with turkey and pumpkin pie, there’s something for everyone.

Planning your trip to Paris? Discover our 25 Essential Dos and Don’ts to navigate the City of Light like a local! From choosing the perfect neighborhood to stay in and packing the right power adaptors, this blog covers everything you need for a smooth and unforgettable Parisian experience. Learn why you should avoid booking accommodations near the Eiffel Tower and where to find the best local haunts for coffee and cuisine. Don’t miss out on crucial tips for navigating pharmacies and transportation, ensuring you're well-prepared for any situation.

Discover the hidden foodie gems of Paris on Rue Rambuteau! From lobster rolls to pastries and coffee spots, this underrated street links the neighborhoods of Les Halles and Le Marais, offering some of the best eats near the Pompidou. Explore our ultimate foodie guide to uncover must-visit spots like Homer and Glace Bachir.

Discover the top 5 best brunch places in Paris, perfect for indulging in a delicious breakfast or coffee. From classic French pastries like croissants and pain au chocolat to savory options like shakshuka and eggs benedict, this guide to Paris brunch spots has it all. Explore trendy neighborhoods like Montmartre, Canal Saint-Martin, and the 11th arrondissement while enjoying the best brunch cafes Paris has to offer. Find vegetarian, gluten-free, and coffee lovers’ favorites at these must-visit Paris brunch restaurants. Volume I of Paris in My Pocket’s ultimate brunch guide.

Get the inside scoop on where to watch the Paris 2024 Olympic Opening Ceremony! Discover top Parisian bars and spots for an unforgettable viewing experience. With the Seine banks closed, find out where to enjoy the ceremony, support local businesses, and savor quality drinks and ambiance. Explore our curated guide to the best bars in Paris for the Olympics and make the most of the Games.

Discover the ultimate guide to the best specialty coffee roasters in Paris. Once known for its classic, yet underwhelming espressos, Paris has transformed into a haven for coffee lovers, offering some of the finest brews in the world. Whether you’re searching for the perfect flat white, a rich espresso, or a flavorful filter coffee, this guide covers the top cafés and roasters across the city. From hidden gems to trendy hotspots, find out where to experience the best of Paris’s coffee culture. Learn which cafés are making waves with their expertly roasted beans, warm ambiance, and delicious pastries. Whether you're a Parisian or visiting the city, our guide will help you navigate Paris’s flourishing coffee scene, ensuring you enjoy the very best coffee Paris has to offer. Explore Paris like a local and savor the city’s top coffee experiences with our curated recommendations and insider tips.

Planning your Paris trip? Explore the best guided tours to see all the top Paris attractions, including iconic landmarks, hidden gems, and local markets. Whether you're cycling through the city, taking a private walking tour, or enjoying a scooter ride, our curated list of top-rated Paris tours ensures you experience the City of Lights to the fullest. Plus, discover the best places to eat, drink, and snap photos. Optimize your Paris adventure with our expert recommendations and insider tips!