Top 7 Tips for Not Ruining Your Paris Trip (Seriously, Read This Before You Go)
Paris is magic—but only if you avoid the rookie mistakes that can turn your dream vacation into a jet-lagged scavenger hunt with a side of soggy socks. First off, while staying near the Eiffel Tower sounds great, it’s often overpriced, quiet at night, and farther from the action. For a better experience, stay in neighborhoods like Le Marais, the Latin Quarter, or Saint-Germain, where you’ll get more charm, better food, and easier access to the city’s best sights. Now, here’s how to sidestep the most common travel blunders and enjoy Paris like a pro.
1. Airbnb Can Break Your Heart
Airbnb might be great in the States, but in France? It’s a gamble. Last-minute cancellations are a thing, and when it happens, you're left scrambling to book an overpriced broom closet with a view of a wall. Want to lower the risk? Stick to Superhosts only.
Also, prepare for an awkward arrival. If your flight lands at 6 a.m. and check-in isn’t until 3 p.m., your Airbnb likely won’t store your bags. Unless your host is a unicorn, you'll end up guarding your luggage in a café, slowly fusing with the furniture as jet lag crushes your will to live.
Oh, and those listings bragging about a “great view”? That usually means fifth-floor walk-up with no elevator. Fun with luggage. Bonus tip: no window screens. Bring bug spray and a sense of humor.
2. Sleep on the Plane or Pay the Price
Not sleeping on the flight is the international rookie move of the century. Yes, the movies are tempting. Yes, that seat is made of medieval torture foam. But even a few hours of sleep can save your first day in Paris.
Upgrading your seat—just a little—can be a game-changer. A few extra inches of space could mean arriving human instead of zombie. And trust us: your goal is to stay awake until local bedtime. How well you handle that first day determines how long you’ll be a jet-lagged mess.
3. Don’t Fall for the Museum Pass Trap
Paris museums are incredible. But here’s the truth: you won’t hit more than one big one a day unless you’re part machine. Most people tap out after 2–4 hours. The Louvre alone will melt your brain and feet.
So skip the Paris Museum Pass unless you’re planning a sprint. Instead, pick a few favorites and book tickets in advance—which you should do anyway because lines are long and your time is precious.
4. Transit with Luggage? Think Again
The Metro is great... until you try it with two suitcases and three hours of sleep. Many stations don’t have elevators or working escalators, so be ready to haul bags up endless stairs while Parisians silently judge you.
Save yourself. Book a car from the airport. It’s not flashy—it’s just the smart move. Door-to-door service, no stairs, no crowds, no regrets.
5. Don’t Fall for the Scams
Paris is safe, but the scams are from seasoned professionals. Watch out for:
People with clipboards asking if you speak English (they’re distracting you while their buddy checks your pockets).
Guys trying to tie a bracelet on your wrist (congrats, now you owe them €10).
Someone who “found” a gold ring on the ground (spoiler: it’s not yours, and it’s not gold).
Best defense? Look busy, walk confidently, and ignore strangers trying to chat you up near landmarks.
6. Money Matters—Don’t Get Played
Do not get euros from your bank in the U.S.—the rates are trash. Use a credit card with no foreign transaction fees, and when asked, always pay in euros, not dollars. That “convert to USD” button? It’s a scam dressed as convenience.
Let your bank do the math—you’ll get a much better exchange rate.
7. Pack Like a Parisian, Not a Tourist
Paris weather is moody. Sun one minute, surprise rain the next. Pack a small umbrella or light rain jacket, even in summer.
Also, Paris is a walking city, so skip the stilettos or brand-new loafers. Bring comfortable, weather-appropriate shoes that won’t destroy your feet. Layer clothes instead of packing heavy stuff, and ditch the giant travel umbrella for the love of fashion—it’s a sidewalk menace and a tourist billboard.
With these tips in mind, you’ll skip the stress and soak up everything Paris has to offer. Less drama, more croissants. Viola!
And if you’re looking to make your trip even smoother, why not take advantage of a complimentary 15-minute Zoom call with me? We can discuss personalized concierge services, exclusive tours, and how I can be your ally abroad, ensuring your Paris experience is nothing short of perfect. Book your session today, and let’s make your Paris adventure as seamless as possible!
