Your Next Trip TRAVEL GUIDE
Paris
Step into the heart of Parisian culture with “DIY Paris: Beyond the Landmarks.” This episode explores hands-on experiences, from crafting Suprême de volaille at FERRANDI Paris to designing leather goods at a local atelier. Dive into Paris’s culinary and artisanal traditions while discovering its iconic flair for fashion and delectable desserts.
Now, check out our recommendations featured in this episode and more!
What to do
Cooking Class at FERRANDI Paris
Master the art of French cuisine by preparing classic dishes under the guidance of top chefs.
- Address: 35 Boulevard Haussmann, 75009 Paris, France
- Hours: Classes typically last 1.5 hours; check the website for schedules.
- Cost: Approximately €120 per person.
- Website: Galeries Lafayette Cooking Classes
Artisan Crafting Workshop
Create your own leather wallet in a hands-on workshop led by skilled artisans, gaining insight into traditional craftsmanship.
- Address: Various locations; refer to the website for details.
- Hours: Workshops are typically 2-3 hours; consult the website for available times.
- Cost: Starting at €70 per person.
- Website: Artisan Craft Workshops in Paris
Macaron Baking Class at Galeries Lafayette
Learn the delicate art of macaron making in a class set within the iconic Galeries Lafayette, and savor your creations.
- Address: 35 Boulevard Haussmann, 75009 Paris, France
- Hours: Classes are available on select days; check the website for the schedule.
- Cost: Approximately €49 per person.
- Website: Galeries Lafayette Macaron Class
Where to stay
Hôtel Grand Powers
A luxurious 5-star hotel blending classic Parisian charm with modern amenities, located in the heart of the Golden Triangle.
- Address: 52 Rue François 1er, 75008 Paris, France
- Cost: Rooms starting at €520 per night.
- Website: Hôtel Grand Powers
Hôtel de JoBo
A boutique hotel with a distinctive 18th-century décor, offering an intimate atmosphere in the vibrant Le Marais district.
- Address: 10 Rue d’Ormesson, 75004 Paris, France
- Cost: Rooms starting at €300 per night.
- Website: Hôtel de JoBo
citizenM Paris Gare de Lyon Hotel
A modern hotel featuring smart technology in rooms, a rooftop bar with city views, and a convenient location near major attractions.
- Address: 8 Rue Van Gogh, 75012 Paris, France
- Cost: Rooms starting at €120 per night.
- Website: citizenM Paris Gare de Lyon
And there’s tons of other fabulous places to stay during your trip.
Check out the best accommodation deals below.
What to eat
Le Voltaire
A historic restaurant on the Left Bank, offering classic French cuisine in an elegant setting.
- Address: 27 Quai Voltaire, 75007 Paris, France
- Hours: Monday to Saturday: 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM, 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM; closed on Sundays.
- Cost: Entrées from €30.
- Website: Le Voltaire
Breizh Café
Renowned for its authentic Breton crêpes and galettes, this café offers a delightful taste of Brittany in Paris.
- Address: 109 Rue Vieille du Temple, 75003 Paris, France
- Hours: Monday to Friday: 11:30 AM – 11:00 PM; Saturday and Sunday: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM.
- Cost: Galettes from €9.
- Website: Breizh Café
L’As du Fallafel
Famous for its flavorful falafel wraps, this spot is a must-visit for delicious Middle Eastern street food.
- Address: 34 Rue des Rosiers, 75004 Paris, France
- Hours: Sunday to Thursday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM; Friday: 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM; closed on Saturdays.
- Cost: Falafel sandwich at €6.50.
- Website: L’As du Fallafel
Travel Tips
Best Time to Visit
Paris is a year-round destination, but the best times to visit are in the spring (April to June) and fall (September to early November). These seasons offer mild weather, fewer crowds, and beautiful scenery with blooming flowers or colorful autumn leaves.
Summer is lively with outdoor events, but it can be crowded and expensive. Winter brings a romantic charm with holiday lights, fewer tourists, and cozy cafés.Getting Around
Paris has an excellent public transportation system, making it easy to navigate the city without a car.
Metro: The Paris Metro is fast, affordable, and extensive, with 16 lines covering most attractions.
Bus: Buses are a scenic way to explore the city and reach areas not serviced by the Metro.
Ride-Sharing Services: Apps like Uber and Bolt are widely available. Locals also recommend downloading the taxi app - G7 Taxi.
Bikes and Scooters: Vélib' Métropole offers bike rentals, and e-scooters are popular for short distances.
Walking: Many iconic sites are within walking distance of each other, making strolling a great option.
Car rentals are not recommended unless you're traveling outside the city.
Safety Tips
Pickpocket Awareness: Be vigilant in crowded areas like the Metro, tourist attractions, and markets. Keep valuables secure and avoid carrying large amounts of cash.
Scams: Watch out for common scams, such as friendship bracelets near Sacré-Cœur or petition scams near major landmarks.
Transportation: Use licensed taxis or reputable ride-sharing apps at night. Avoid unmarked cabs.
Emergency Numbers: Dial 112 for general emergencies and 15 for medical assistance.Helpful Notes
Currency: The currency in Paris is the Euro (€). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but it’s helpful to have small cash on hand for street vendors and markets.
Language: While many Parisians speak English, learning basic French phrases like "Bonjour" (Hello) and "Merci" (Thank you) is appreciated.
Tipping: Service charges are typically included in restaurant bills, but it’s customary to round up or leave small change if the service was excellent.
Water: Tap water is safe to drink. Carry a reusable bottle to refill at the city’s public fountains.
Plug Type: Type C and Type E
Voltage: 230V
Frequency: 50Hz
Packing list
Here’s our suggested items to pack for this destination. Please always consider the weather and activities you will be doing.
Clothing
- For Spring/Fall: Light layers (jackets, sweaters, long-sleeve tops), comfortable walking shoes, and a scarf for cooler mornings or evenings.
- For Summer: Lightweight clothing (dresses, short-sleeve tops, breathable pants), sunhat, and sunglasses.
- For Winter: Warm coat, thermal layers, gloves, scarf, and waterproof boots for cold or wet weather.
Activities-Specific
- Cooking Classes: Closed-toe shoes and casual attire (aprons are usually provided).
- Fashion Events or Shopping: Chic outfits for trying on couture or attending shows.
- Leather Workshop: Comfortable clothing you don’t mind getting a bit messy.
Footwear
- Comfortable walking shoes for cobblestone streets and exploring.
- Stylish flats or boots for dining out or fashion events.
Accessories
- Reusable water bottle for staying hydrated.
- Crossbody bag or anti-theft backpack to keep belongings secure.
- Compact umbrella for sudden rain showers.
Travel Essentials
- Passport (with copies for backup).
- Travel insurance documents.
- Power bank for charging devices on the go.
Toiletries & Health
- Travel-sized toiletries.
- Personal medications.
- Sunscreen (even in cooler seasons).
- Lip balm and moisturizer for colder months.
Electronics
- Universal travel adapter for Type C/E plugs.
- Camera or smartphone for capturing memories.
- Lightweight laptop or tablet if needed for work or leisure.
Optional Items
- Notebook or travel journal for documenting experiences.
- Small tote or reusable bag for markets and shopping.
- Lightweight foldable rain jacket.
Get a full packing list and free downloadable template at Pack Better.
Ultimate Packing List Library
Find the perfect customizable packing list for all of your travel situations on our sister website Pack Better.
The ancestral lands of Paris were the island in the Seine River where the original settlement of Lutetia was established in the late 3rd century BCE. The settlement was established by a group of Celts called the Parisii, who were tribal fishermen who settled on the island due to its fertility and climate. The name Paris comes from the Gallic tribe, the Parisii.
We extend our respect and gratitude to the Indigenous communities who have been the stewards of these lands for generations.
Learn more about responsible travel practices in the TWD Responsible Travel Guide.
Visit the guideExperiences provided in part by: Paris Tourism Office
Editor: Ashhad Zubair
