Paris: Mistakes 1st Time Visitors to Paris Make

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  • Опубліковано 23 лип 2022
  • Paris is an incredible city that millions of tourists enjoy. There are some common mistakes that first time visitors to Paris make. Here are the most common ones we see, so that you won't make them when you visit Paris!
    Filmed in Paris, France
    Copyright Mark Wolters 2022
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КОМЕНТАРІ • 586

  • @Hiro_Trevelyan
    @Hiro_Trevelyan Рік тому +154

    As a Parisian myself, great tips !
    I always forget that people are not necessarily used to public transit, but our system is great compared to most US cities. So tourists, don't be afraid to use it (though the pricing is a bit confusing for tourists tbh). And please eat at bakeries if you can afford it, if you want the full "french experience". We depend on bakeries here, hence why we have so many everywhere.

    • @markborok4481
      @markborok4481 Рік тому +4

      I went there with my wife years ago, and this was after having lived there for nine months. There was an open air market near us, and my wife suggested buying things for our breakfast there. It was great. Never would have occurred to me if she hadn't suggested it.

    • @thedude5599
      @thedude5599 Рік тому +5

      Rue Mouffetard is a mistake if you do not visit that spot. Been to Paris like 4 times everytime I must spend some time on this street. best cafes bakery shops etc. Oh I miss Paris so much.

    • @tw4601
      @tw4601 Рік тому

      I'm bringing my family to visit in a few weeks and honestly have been quite anxious after hearing some rumors. I've heard it's difficult to find places to eat if you don't have reservations, you get looked down on for not being able to speak French, etc. Would you care to give some advice as to what would be best practices when coming to France?

    • @zankhanabhagattji4084
      @zankhanabhagattji4084 Рік тому

      Hi. Are the metros wheelchair accessible?

    • @marcjames3487
      @marcjames3487 Рік тому +4

      Bakeries ? LOL I spent 3 days looking for Gluten Free. But I asked for 'Gluten Libre ' Non ! it's 'sans glutan'

  • @victoriadell614
    @victoriadell614 Рік тому +159

    For the Louvre, get to the mall entrance on Rue de Rivoli at the time it opens. You don't have to use the pyramid entrance. This take you underneath the small pyramids where the points meet (ala last scene in the Da Vinci Code). You skip the giant line outside. We walked briskly to Mona and were alone with her for at least 2 minutes. Also buy your museum pass online ahead of time so you don't have to stand in any museum line. Bon Chance!

    • @radiant2052
      @radiant2052 Рік тому +3

      Great tip, thanks!

    • @Tris-Mimi
      @Tris-Mimi Рік тому +2

      Need to go back and watch Da Vinci code

    • @CarlaR92
      @CarlaR92 Рік тому +1

      Hello to use the museum pass did you reserved the time slot? Thanks

    • @stevieboy110
      @stevieboy110 Рік тому

      f.. Mona Lisa

    • @bugsygoo
      @bugsygoo Рік тому +2

      Amazing thing about the Louvre is that it has other art work besides the Mona Lisa. Crazy, I know!🤯 Even at peak tourist season, there are hardly any people in the rest of the museum. It seems most people aren't buying a ticket to see one of the world's great museums, but rather to see one painting.

  • @warrenberckmann3509
    @warrenberckmann3509 Рік тому +219

    I've visited Paris over 50 times and every tip he gave is right on. You should take each of those tips and expand on them because newbies need more explanation. The most significant tip was to not try to do to much! Make up your mind that you will be back. A corollary to this is to eliminate as much of the strictly tourist stuff as possible. Who cares if the people back home find out that you didn't go up the Eiffel Tower! Do you really want to lose 4-6 hours of precious time on that? See a video of it! Do'n't waste time at the Moulin Rouge. It's in the seediest part of Paris, it's been resting on its reputation for over 50 years and there are much better shows like the Lido or Paradis Latin. Do your homework in advance and narrow down your plans: 1) Things I must do in case I never come back; 2) Second tier things to do if my timing works out well. Don't even bother with anything less than these because you'll never get to them anyway. Also, don't just look at tourist guide books in your research. Ask people who are local or have spent a lot of time there. Learn where the Parisians go. Take in a show at l'Olympia or Opéra Garnier. A real gem is the Église St. Julian-le-Pauvre which has some extraordinary shows and almost no tourists. Another tip: get comfortable taking the bus during non rush hours. You see more of the city and they are often more direct than the métro. I could go on for pages and pages but mostly, do your research!!!!

    • @johnsain
      @johnsain Рік тому +1

      Nice to know I can stay a little north of the city and save lots!

    • @jj9501
      @jj9501 Рік тому

      You're right, skip the things you can find on postcards and therefpre have a more relaxed time while there.
      Next week I'm going to Paris for a week and planning mostly around food 😂. Do you have a dish/food/place that a food lover must try?😀

    • @hayerenders4576
      @hayerenders4576 Рік тому +1

      Eiffel tower depends on time as well. Couple of times I've been late in the evening and it was fine. No waiting time for the stairs and a little bit for the lift that does the last bit. Early I've been lucky as well. I get to Paris with my truck so I can just have a look and when it's to busy at the Eiffel Tower I go somewhere else.

    • @carolyn90272
      @carolyn90272 Рік тому +3

      Bus-great point! But how do you buy a bus ticket? When you get on? Cash accepted on bus? Buy bus ticket before at a tabac before you go to the bus stop? App you can use?

    • @JM-vu2tt
      @JM-vu2tt Рік тому

      I ve visited 209 times and can say you are over reacting certain points, paris needs u to let go, not to worry that much, just let it be

  • @trumanpatriotsactivities6913
    @trumanpatriotsactivities6913 Рік тому +48

    I’ve been to Paris 8 times, including a trip with my wife just last week, and these tips are terrific. Enjoy some downtime-buy a bottle of champagne and find a park, sit for a few hours at a cafe, take a nap in the park. It’s one of my favorite places on earth. Safe travels!

    • @colors6692
      @colors6692 Рік тому +1

      It’s illegal to drink in parks💩

    • @jadewest3153
      @jadewest3153 Рік тому

      can you drink in the parks?

    • @MrAnythingZ
      @MrAnythingZ Рік тому +1

      @@jadewest3153 yes it's not an issue at all dont worry :)

    • @melodie4286
      @melodie4286 Рік тому +1

      @@jadewest3153 but you can get fined ( not very commun but possible) for being drunk in a public place, so drink responsibly 🥂

  • @angus7278
    @angus7278 Рік тому +41

    I’ve been to Paris 5 times and I’d definitely recommend buying a guided tour of the Louvre (same for the Vatican Museum) online beforehand. You won’t waste your time in the lineup or wandering aimlessly in a huge place suffering from FOMO. You will get in quickly and see the most important works along with valuable information about each one.

    • @joeandwendymaho3991
      @joeandwendymaho3991 Рік тому +7

      As for a tour guide for the Lourve, who did you use and would you recommend them?

  • @LookingupforJesus396
    @LookingupforJesus396 Рік тому +19

    It was dumb luck... but it was a rainy spring night and we went to the Eiffel Tower.....it was nearly empty; 30 minutes before closing, and absolutely magical!!! An unexpected delight❣️

  • @jasecola
    @jasecola Рік тому +57

    I agree with all of these. The biggest ones I agree with are to take the metro and walk as much as possible, and also to not be so concerned with seeing everything you think you are supposed to see. The best things about Paris are not the things that you see on a postcard. Walk the streets, sit at a cafe patio and sip some coffee, go into a bunch of bakeries, buy stuff for a picnic along the river or in a park, etc, etc. One big mistake that got left out is in regards to dining culture and general etiquette in any shop. Always say "bonjour" or "bonsoir" and don't expect to be pampered by your server. Also, don't be afraid to ask for your check when you're ready to leave.

    • @Hiro_Trevelyan
      @Hiro_Trevelyan Рік тому +1

      Paradoxically, you'll see more of the "Paris postcard" by walking and enjoying the city than just seeing monuments.

  • @heidij7374
    @heidij7374 Рік тому +14

    I have been to Paris four times. The biggest mistake I made in Paris last time was leaving 💔 I can't wait to go back.

  • @DCSuperHerosPlayMC
    @DCSuperHerosPlayMC Рік тому +30

    My favorite part of Paris was just walking around and immersing myself in the city. We stayed at Noisy and we took the metro to the city which was very easy.

    • @walideg5304
      @walideg5304 Рік тому

      Noisy le Grand or Noisy le sec ?

    • @DCSuperHerosPlayMC
      @DCSuperHerosPlayMC Рік тому

      @@walideg5304 Noisy-le-Grand

    • @walideg5304
      @walideg5304 Рік тому +2

      @@DCSuperHerosPlayMC My beloved city. I love it. Nice people. I miss them.

    • @youtopia2621
      @youtopia2621 Рік тому

      Omg I'll be in noisy too! I'll be there in about a week and I'm just worried about getting to my place safely because I'll be arriving at nighttime. Was it safe?

    • @DCSuperHerosPlayMC
      @DCSuperHerosPlayMC Рік тому

      @youtopia2 I felt safe there. Granted we were in a group. But it's a typical urban environment in the nighttime. Don't stick to shadowy places and you'll be good

  • @Christinebythesea
    @Christinebythesea Рік тому +55

    Great tips! As a Londoner who has visited Paris often, and being a very similar age to Mark and Jocelyn, I now have started staying more centrally in order to visit my favourite museums at opening time without having to deal with rush hour public transport. I’ve had the magical experience of Musee de L’Orangerie and Sainte Chappelle almost to myself as a result. Mercure often have great deals in quieter months. Expect small rooms but good standards and avoiding the crowds for a calmer time 😊 Also, as well as the Boulangerie, a cheap but nice picnic lunch can be got at supermarkets to enjoy in one of the many parks…

  • @corgiowner436
    @corgiowner436 7 місяців тому +3

    Always call ahead to a restaurant even if it’s an hour before you want to eat dinner. Go to the Louvre on Thursday afternoon or evening and it’s open late. Pick out what you want to see beforehand. You could spend the rest of your life there. Don’t overlook smaller museums. Visit Malmaison and Vaux le Vicompte outside Paris. Versailles takes up a full day and the fountains only run at specified times on certain days.

  • @DanielA-nl9nv
    @DanielA-nl9nv Рік тому +11

    Honestly that's probably the best advice I ever got from you, and I've been using it for years.... Don't burn yourself out trying to see everything; pick two or three things you really want to do and focus on doing them right.

  • @chp4715
    @chp4715 8 місяців тому +4

    I almost entirely agree with your list. My one disagreement, as an American yet someone who loves and works with trains, is that I'd recommend splurging for a cab or Uber at least once, if not a few times for your longer commutes. I love the Paris Metro and you should definitely take it - but there's something about being able to look out your window and see the liveliness of the streets, the shops, restaurants and unique buildings you might not see again, and peeks down random streets that simply appear spectacular. Line 6 of the Metro does have some pretty fantastic views of it's own, though! Enjoyed the video overall.

  • @MrPulimen
    @MrPulimen Рік тому +32

    I went to Paris and I stayed at an apartment 20 minutes away from the main sights. I saved so much money and I had such a comfortable room. This also allowed me to get to the city easily since the metro was close to my apartment.

    • @kumarjo1982
      @kumarjo1982 Рік тому

      May I know which apartment you stayed in. I am looking for some stay options this June

    • @MrPulimen
      @MrPulimen Рік тому +2

      @@kumarjo1982 Yes! It’s in the city of Creteil and I did it through the AirBnB app

    • @kumarjo1982
      @kumarjo1982 Рік тому +1

      Thanks much, I see the prices are quite good there, is this closer to attractions

    • @MrPulimen
      @MrPulimen Рік тому +1

      @@kumarjo1982 It’s closer to the train. The public transportation in Paris is great!

  • @crystalrc4700
    @crystalrc4700 Рік тому +5

    I literally just booked my Airbnb tonight for paris next year in March and your videos are awesome!! Thank you for all the tips!

  • @billjohnson6300
    @billjohnson6300 Рік тому +27

    Go to Paris often!! It's a wonderful place and they are much more welcoming now than they were 40 years ago. Ride the metro and the trains! It's so easy and you can get everywhere really fast. France is clean, modern and very well-organized, especially Paris! Wear a Rick Steve's money belt and the pick pockets will never get your money. Watch your purse when somebody wants to interview you. The purse snatchers are part of the team while the interviewer distracts you!

    • @feastmode123
      @feastmode123 Рік тому +3

      This definitely happened especially on the metro! If anybody asks you a question in French, ignore and keep tight. Best way to avoid those snatchers.

    • @philwanadoo7435
      @philwanadoo7435 Рік тому

      Paris is clean ???

  • @angus7278
    @angus7278 Рік тому +8

    Don’t forget about the great day trips you can take by fast train from Paris! Reims, Strasbourg, Lille, etc.

  • @juliegoodwin6850
    @juliegoodwin6850 Рік тому +39

    Great timing, we are headed to France late Sept! Something we've found that's worked for us in many places is just to plan one activity a day and then just go with the flow! Thanks for all you do your videos are always such a great help

    • @robinsmith8846
      @robinsmith8846 3 місяці тому

      Yes! Plan a place to see or show, and plan dinner, or larger lunch. Then just enjoy the city! Have been 5 times and going again next year!

  • @TeddyAura
    @TeddyAura Рік тому +65

    I currently live in France since seven years ago, and one of the biggest mistakes I have seen people make when visiting Paris is dinning at a restaurant on Champs Elysée. It is way overpriced, sometimes the food is awful and the best restaurants are not in that area. It amuses me when friends and relatives visit me an insist on dinning in this area. I try to convince them not to do that but people are very stubborn.

    • @markmakallister4653
      @markmakallister4653 Рік тому +3

      Mistake 1, not speaking Arabic

    • @cloverhal2284
      @cloverhal2284 Рік тому

      I only know of one that’s really good (I lived in the district), next to the Nike store, waiters wearing striped shirts

    • @-greeze
      @-greeze Рік тому +6

      And I would add as a Parisian native, that there is no Parisian who goes to the Champs Elysées. You will only find tourists or people working in the neighborhood. For restaurants on the Champs Elysées this is not where you will eat properly.

    • @-greeze
      @-greeze Рік тому +1

      I will help you have a culinary stay as it should be. Download the "raisin" application is a French application that includes all restaurants, wine cellars, bars or merchants selling natural and organic wine and healthy food. You will be sure to drink very good wine and eat well. And do not forget the magic words "Bonjour, s'il vous plait, excusez moi and Merci" otherwise your interlocutor will consider that you are disrespectful and will not make an effort either. With the application and the magic words you already have 50% of your trip successful ... it's up to you to find the other 50% .... enjoy your stay in Paris ;)

    • @citrine65
      @citrine65 Рік тому +2

      @@-greeze Merci!

  • @EscapingtheEmptyNest
    @EscapingtheEmptyNest Рік тому +14

    Proud to say that I think the only one of those mistakes we made in our first trip was trying to do too much in our time there. We were worn out, but we did see the things we most wanted to see. Thanks for all of your great advice leading up to the big trip

    • @xymzk
      @xymzk Рік тому +1

      Same though I don't consider seeing a lot a mistake. Sometimes I can fit in even more than I have planned. Especially with limited vacay time and $!

    • @Solo-vh9fm
      @Solo-vh9fm Рік тому +1

      Tbh I prefer shorter, more condensed stays. I get homesick easily (except for when I was in Iceland) and as someone whose not into much food and not comfortable enough to make conversation with locals in French (that failed in Brussels) and no friends with me to talk to, walking is my favorite part of the trips and it’s best to have as many places as possible to walk around. I’m tired by the end of it but that feeling lasts a couple of days or so whereas the memories are there for life.
      Obviously lower costs and holiday time makes this even more helpful.

  • @mffmoniz2948
    @mffmoniz2948 Рік тому +6

    I loved the bus in Paris. In London the bus is useless, so you HAVE to take the underground. But in Paris, when we visited, we hated the metro and tried the bus. Fantastic. It was on time, it took us where we wanted and we could see the sights going there.

  • @soapyd2
    @soapyd2 Рік тому +1

    Yes, downtime is Paris is so nice! I have had some when traveling for work and I had great experiences that way.

  • @CarolandDerek
    @CarolandDerek Рік тому

    Thanks for pointing the facts out 🙏👍

  • @vagabonny2941
    @vagabonny2941 Рік тому

    So true! Slow travel. Relax, enjoy 💙

  • @sams3015
    @sams3015 Рік тому +28

    On my recent stay, I stayed in an Ibis that did the job. They are like Starbucks or McDonald’s as in if you’ve stayed in one Ibis, you’ve stayed in them all. They’re pretty affordable hotels aimed at business travellers. Paris and similar cities have a ton of them, so definitely worth looking into if staying there on a budget as it takes the guessing game out of it.

    • @xymzk
      @xymzk Рік тому +1

      I'm a fan of Ibis! Sometimes they have a discount if you stay longer by booking directly.

    • @sams3015
      @sams3015 Рік тому +3

      @@xymzk also it’s a good idea to sign up to All Accor as you get a discount there too & you can collect points you can use later

    • @xymzk
      @xymzk Рік тому +2

      @@sams3015 yup!

    • @barvdw
      @barvdw Рік тому +1

      Depends on what you're looking for I guess. I like a hotel to have some personality, even if the comfort is less than your standardised Accor hotel. But I understand the allure to some of reliability and predictability.

  • @virtualwalkjp8920
    @virtualwalkjp8920 Рік тому +4

    美しい街並みで旅行に行きたくなります🇫🇷

  • @kalyar.9484
    @kalyar.9484 День тому

    Thank you for useful tips❤

  • @satan6548
    @satan6548 Рік тому +4

    I spent an hour on UA-cam learning how to use the Metro and it was a great decision. Took it everywhere, stayed in a cheaper area. Even rode the RER to Disneyland Paris for $7.

  • @dr.baotran8448
    @dr.baotran8448 Рік тому

    Thank you for your travel insights...very helpful.

  • @linkisraw
    @linkisraw Рік тому +39

    One of the biggest tip after visiting Paris I can say to anyone is... don't wait at the main line for the Louvre. There are tons of people and the line can take 1-2 hours. Instead, take the entrance underground by the small arc. There is no line and you will get inside instantly.
    Besides that we broke many of these rules 😄, we stayed near eiffel tower, took uber all times and had breakfast at the hotel (though it was really good and well worth it).

    • @peterpain6625
      @peterpain6625 Рік тому +5

      That Louvre tip will probably save my sanity. gf so wants to go there... cheers!

    • @tylerwest2449
      @tylerwest2449 Рік тому +4

      Going in that way saved us so much time. The only one of these the mistakes we made was staying near the Louvre. We chose it because we were spending 2 days at the Louvre, and it was in the center of everything we wanted to see, which made walking the city easier. Knowing what I know now I kind of wish we stayed in Montmartre just because that was our favorite area of the city, a lot quieter and less crowded.

    • @johnsain
      @johnsain Рік тому

      Where is the small arc?

    • @tylerwest2449
      @tylerwest2449 Рік тому

      @@johnsain in front of the Louvre. It’s called the Arc de Triomphe du Carrousel.

  • @Tamar-sz8ox
    @Tamar-sz8ox Рік тому +9

    On point 👍 don’t overspend on hotels , our daughter stays at smaller budget boutique places eg ibis hotels maybe 30 mins away from Eiffel town etc by metro . She also likes to do picnics in the many beautiful parks to soak in all the scenery , and budget friendly for dinner etc 🇫🇷 just as you suggested / oh last one , get some falafels and middle eastern food ! Very good

  • @mykellacarter7322
    @mykellacarter7322 Рік тому +2

    Yes, i agree about the lodging, we actually did VRBO when we visited a few years. This worked out better and we stayed in the 10th which had 2 metro stations

  • @babsr8479
    @babsr8479 Рік тому +4

    You are right about the hotel breakfast. The best Western had an option for breakfast, but expensive and I pastries didn't look fresh, more like packaged. I chose the boulangerie at the corner for a croissant and cafe au lait Their baguettes were excellent too.

  • @darylfranck8854
    @darylfranck8854 Рік тому +1

    Absolutely love your content. So nice to hear that you hardly never use the word "like" in every sentence. Keep up with the great videos. 👍🏻

  • @jamesl9371
    @jamesl9371 Рік тому +2

    I loved the Metro. Actually I take subways everywhere I go. One of my favorite things to do

  • @hillroberts1311
    @hillroberts1311 Рік тому +2

    Very good advice. I spent my Christmas week in Paris and walked the city for hours. I became ill for two days but enjoyed Paris despite the cold. I plan to visit it again, my 4th visit, when Notre Dame is finished. Thanks for the tips.

  • @evermarquez7506
    @evermarquez7506 Рік тому

    Went 12 years ago. Going back in November. Glad you made this video. Following you for years. Over my travels your videos have helped alot.

  • @kookaburraoct64
    @kookaburraoct64 Рік тому +2

    October in Paris is fabulous

  • @AlexanderCadena-mq3gm
    @AlexanderCadena-mq3gm Рік тому

    Amazing video, and I live here !! Love the way you explain everything! Cheers!

  • @Sonny0276
    @Sonny0276 Рік тому

    Great Video. Thank you for posting.

  • @pelanconglansia2000
    @pelanconglansia2000 Рік тому

    Thank you for sharing this video…. Best regards!

  • @MacTravellers
    @MacTravellers Рік тому +2

    The metro is indeed really great and easy.

  • @video-trip
    @video-trip Рік тому +2

    Thanks for the tips !
    Cheers from Nantucket, Massachusetts ! ☀️😎

  • @doctorstrangelove9487
    @doctorstrangelove9487 Рік тому

    Good tips thanks for posting.

  • @kelvincuellar2427
    @kelvincuellar2427 8 місяців тому +1

    I just got back from trip to Paris yesterday and you are absolutely right about these tips. As far as public transportation and getting around it is VERY easy to use there are maps all over the place and the ticket machines are in english also not to mention that Paris is very walkable also. When I got to Paris I didn't really have anything planned out I kind of just figured it out as time went on and like he said the best thing to do is just take your time and enjoy the city. Its amazing!

  • @Daisy-cg1fh
    @Daisy-cg1fh Рік тому

    very helpful thank you!

  • @kamalpreetkaur7648
    @kamalpreetkaur7648 Місяць тому

    Great tips! Very well explained Thanks

  • @jlswrighty
    @jlswrighty Рік тому +1

    such good advice, especially taking some time to chill

  • @magfamous
    @magfamous Рік тому

    Thank you, that was very helpful!!

  • @MrInzeo
    @MrInzeo Рік тому

    Great advise, thank you.

  • @tobiojo9454
    @tobiojo9454 Рік тому

    These tips are very helpful

  • @crqdea6654
    @crqdea6654 9 місяців тому

    THANK YOU

  • @mariacarpenter2206
    @mariacarpenter2206 Рік тому

    Excellent tips. Thank you.

  • @ahlivetuhsidamaro150
    @ahlivetuhsidamaro150 Рік тому

    I always enjoy your videos!! No nonsense and great info

  • @mrn13
    @mrn13 Рік тому +201

    Great tips! I am a local and I would 100% recommend NOT to visit from mid July to last week of August: massive tourist invasions, most locals are out of town for vacation, basically 80-90% of the places locals go to for daily stuff are therefore closed...Streets desserted and so forth...

    • @peterpain6625
      @peterpain6625 Рік тому +17

      That's for sure. Friend wanted to spend his honeymoon in Paris with his wife... Jeez what a rip-off. Sent them to Bulgaria instead and they're in some luxury mountain-resort with 2 michelin star cuisine and spend half of what they would in Paris for a week longer. Went to Paris for a weekend though just because ;)

    • @MsDezB1
      @MsDezB1 Рік тому +4

      Perhaps because of C-19, when my daughter and I went 2021, late July-early August, it wasn't crazy! We visited the Eiffel Tower and few a few moments, had one whole side of the deuxieme etage to ourselves! Went to the Palace of Versailles and shared the mirror room with no more than 8 other people (if that many). Granted, we went very early in the morning. Even when we visited Disney. Wasn't crowded. Loved it! This and future years, might be a different story.

    • @azca.
      @azca. Рік тому +3

      I literally just arrived Jul 29 lol. I'm definitely never going during the summer ever again. Only winter from now on

    • @gurikuri1595
      @gurikuri1595 Рік тому +1

      Precisely, it's the only season when you can visit. Otherwise, you'll visit a giant traffic jam.

    • @DrewHyttinen
      @DrewHyttinen Рік тому

      How about in December around Christmas?

  • @andresangulo6452
    @andresangulo6452 Рік тому +1

    Great tips!!! Your videos help me alot to travel

  • @Al69BfR
    @Al69BfR Рік тому +7

    When I was in Paris with my company the hotel we were at had three stars and the price for a room that was a little bit bigger than the bed was 450€. Luckily I didn’t had to pay for it. But it was relatively in the center of Paris. So even if you book a hotel in the outer ring of Paris, as long as you can reach the metro by foot, you have easy access to the whole city.

  • @tammejohnson6885
    @tammejohnson6885 Рік тому

    Thank you!

  • @carabela125
    @carabela125 Рік тому +4

    My favorite experience was staying in one of the older apartments with exposed beam ceilings and original wood floors. It was a 4th floor walkup with a tremendous view. One mistake I did make was taking the metro to watch the fireworks on the 14th and dealing with huge crowds and poor views.

  • @Rachel-rs7jn
    @Rachel-rs7jn Рік тому +22

    Excellent tips! Number one I find I especially have to explain to people, that there's not really "downtown" in Paris in the sense that you can stay almost anywhere in the city and still have plenty of interesting shops and places to go. (Of course, there are certain neighborhoods to avoid, but for reasons other than being far from the "center".) And like you said, you can still be in the "center" in 10 minutes.

    • @delia1985
      @delia1985 Рік тому +1

      Which areas should be avoided?

    • @Rachel-rs7jn
      @Rachel-rs7jn Рік тому +1

      @@delia1985 In my opinion, Barbès-Rochechouart is the main area to avoid. The Gare du Nord and Gare de l'Est can sometimes be a little dicey too. The rest of Paris I think is fine (there's variance in the wealth of the other neighborhoods, but I think they're safe).

    • @onomatopoetisk
      @onomatopoetisk 5 місяців тому +1

      I lived right by the Gare du Nord when I visited 10 years ago (time flies 😅) and I agree, it was a bit sketchy at night but the hotel was very cute with a winding staircase and a crappy tiny elevator that could only fit some luggage. Very Parisian. 😂 Ibis styles Gare du Nord.

  • @jalmonte0509
    @jalmonte0509 Рік тому +2

    I been to Paris 5 times and I love it ❤️🥰

  • @analdyvega4516
    @analdyvega4516 7 місяців тому

    great info

  • @brettparnell8254
    @brettparnell8254 Рік тому +49

    I avoided all of these errors on my two trips to Paris (thankfully). The one mistake I made (and this could only be done by my fellow Canadians), is speaking to locals in the dialect of French spoken in Quebec. I swear some people looked at me as if I was rambling in Japanese.

    • @xenotypos
      @xenotypos Рік тому +4

      Well the accent is surprising, but I think overall everyone can understand Canadian French in France, more or less. There are just some phrases that are hard to understand.

    • @jfrancobelge
      @jfrancobelge Рік тому +6

      That's weird. We normally don't have issues understanding Canadian French, even if we can immediately identify the accent. Are you sure those people were indeed French, which is not necessarily granted in Pairs?

    • @brunobailly7013
      @brunobailly7013 Рік тому +2

      @@jfrancobelge ça dépend des expressions françaises... Le vrai québecois a des expressions qui pourraient effectivement être surprenantes pour quelqu'un qui n'en a jamais entendu. Ne serait-ce que la répétition du "tu" dans une question ou l'utilisation de termes comme "char" pour dire une voiture... Moi ça ne me pose aucun problème, je m'intéresse au parler québécois mais je comprendrais qu'un autre français réagisse bizarrement la première fois qu'il entend du québécois.

    • @brunobailly7013
      @brunobailly7013 Рік тому +2

      😅 I can understand that. Especially if those people looking at you were young people... As we grow older, we usually get more interested in other dialects (in big cities at least), but it's true though that the dialect of French spoken in Quebec can be filled with "confusing" words and expression for French people. That being said, I must admit the everyday "urban/suburban" parisian dialect can be confusing as well for a foreigner who learned French at school...😜

    • @philwanadoo7435
      @philwanadoo7435 Рік тому +2

      The french love the quebec accent

  • @LIBREPUB
    @LIBREPUB Рік тому

    You’re tips are always spot on.

  • @Flo-yx7yu
    @Flo-yx7yu Рік тому

    Great advice! Made me subscribe!

  • @richardgreen8919
    @richardgreen8919 7 місяців тому

    Really,really great advice and spot on.

  • @stillirise9705
    @stillirise9705 Рік тому +1

    That drawing of your son, was incredible

  • @sa21g22g23
    @sa21g22g23 Рік тому

    Very wonderful and great video cultural of the lovely city of Paris, très jolie et très splendide vidéo touristique et culturelle de la douce ville de Paris

  • @Sora_Digital
    @Sora_Digital Рік тому

    I’m going in a few months and decided to look up tips. As soon as I saw your video I knew it would be a good one! Great tips, thank you!

  • @kristian21
    @kristian21 2 місяці тому

    Congrats on the 1M followers! Going to Paris this May, can't wait!

  • @DeeNimmin
    @DeeNimmin Рік тому +2

    Great tips! We’re long overdue for a trip back to Paris. It’s been about 20 years.

    • @woltersworld
      @woltersworld  Рік тому +1

      Biggest change... they don't use the tiny paper tickets anymore.

  • @elisabeth1677
    @elisabeth1677 8 місяців тому

    We are doing our research for our visit at the end of october, so thanks a lot for your quality tips!

  • @abdulbaloch6097
    @abdulbaloch6097 Рік тому +1

    Thanks for your tips Mr. Wolters, this summer I am intending to tour Europe via Eurostar from London onwards. Thanks for your honest advise. Love and respect.

  • @AdventuresWithJerr
    @AdventuresWithJerr Рік тому

    Thank you

  • @sonjamuc6638
    @sonjamuc6638 Рік тому

    Thank you so much for sharing the greate La Vache et le Cuisinier. In 3 days we had dinner there twice. The poached eggs (and all the other food)! OMG!!
    DANKE und viele Grüße aus München!!

  • @TheCmac316
    @TheCmac316 Рік тому +5

    These were great tips! We tried to save money by grabbing some groceries at the Franprix close to our Airbnb for breakfast, snacks etc. of course a boulangerie was right across the street also! 😃

  • @Ro7068
    @Ro7068 Рік тому

    What a wonderful video! Thank you as it will be my first time.

  • @misi_epa
    @misi_epa Рік тому

    Cheers 👌🤩

  • @denisplouffe514
    @denisplouffe514 Рік тому +1

    Comme canadien j’ai visiter Paris souvent et je suis d’accord avec
    vos recommandations.

  • @vaikadam
    @vaikadam Рік тому

    great tips

  • @marylee8372
    @marylee8372 Рік тому

    Yes, yes, yes to lunch specials (plat de jour)!!!!

  • @carlfromtheoc1788
    @carlfromtheoc1788 Рік тому +4

    Really, those tips apply to any major city, although some big cities, their public transportation can be hit or miss. I have the same rules for when I travel and I use Google Maps so I know where the restaurants, pubs/bars, and food stores are in the area of where I plan on staying.

  • @addie-eileenpaige6460
    @addie-eileenpaige6460 Рік тому +1

    Good advice with having just a do nothing day. My family used to go on mini vacations for four or five days. When we'd ask to just stay in the hotel for a bit, they said we needed to be doing stuff all the time.

  • @pamelajones1135
    @pamelajones1135 Рік тому

    Will be celebrating our 31st anniversary there in June. Thank you for the great tips!

  • @butalina
    @butalina Рік тому +1

    We toured all of England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales...then took a high speed train to Paris...saw all the sites..walking around and found this great place for lunch.

  • @freddymiguelponce
    @freddymiguelponce Рік тому +1

    We LOVE your content! Thank you for putting so valuable information alsways in your videos.
    We're planning to visit Paris next year. Do you have any video about hotels there? Would be great to find a good Family friendly hotel
    Thanks in advance and sorry for my English; I'm still learning
    Have a Productive and Healthy Day!

  • @pazovackiputnikglobetrotte1712

    I just came back from 10 day trip from Paris. It was awesome. It was my second time in Paris and I love it. I rented an apartment in Saint Germain Blvd in lovely Latin Quarter. Only one negative thing this time is returning back from Paris to the CDG airport. I figured 4 hours before my flight would be enough to make it. BUT there was traffic jam in Paris and I took Roissy bus from Opera to the airport. It took us 2 hours to reach the airport. And then on top of that ENORMOUS crowds at the airport. Mess and confusion. I barely made it on time for my flight.

    • @woltersworld
      @woltersworld  Рік тому

      Yikes. Glad you made it!

    • @barvdw
      @barvdw Рік тому +3

      That's why I would advise to take the RER to CDG. Or was there a planned closure for maintenance, perhaps? Normally, the RER will get you there much quicker and for less money, too.

    • @noddybebetrain9896
      @noddybebetrain9896 Рік тому +1

      I used the roissy bus during my first 3 trips to paris, but nowadays i always use the RER. Much faster and more convenient

  • @pfg5617
    @pfg5617 Рік тому +39

    Be aware of just how sketchy certain areas are, especially around the major train stations (Gare du Nord, etc) and close to the Peripherique. Also, the RER train from DeGaulle airport into the city centre has a horrible 1980s-Bronx-subway vibe about it.

    • @xXPyrophorusXx
      @xXPyrophorusXx Рік тому +5

      We stayed in Pre-Saint Gervais, meters from the Peripherique (close to the Zenith). It was a quiet Muslim area.
      I would advise to stay at places where many Metro lines intersect. Not necessarily Chatelet, but Montparnasse or Republique. I would go for my 6th time in a heartbeat, but my kids don't like it...I say they don't understand Paris.

    • @walideg5304
      @walideg5304 Рік тому +2

      @@xXPyrophorusXx Pré Saint Gervais is more than ok. You know muslim presence is ok except if you like clichés. And traditionally restaurant and super market are cheaper

    • @walideg5304
      @walideg5304 Рік тому +3

      RER B is ok. Did you go to the Bronx. There is no firearm. You can be robed, but traditionally it’s ok.

    • @aaronhurst4379
      @aaronhurst4379 Рік тому +3

      Oh gosh I remember being constantly accosted by a bunch of people pretending to be taxi drivers outside Gare du Nord!

    • @dieseldragon6756
      @dieseldragon6756 Рік тому +2

      At least the RER B conforms to European safety standards and is safe to travel on, unlike the Heathrow eXcess and other services using Crossrail… 🚈🇬🇧🔥💸
      (I’m not kidding: Search for safety advisories concerning Bombardier „Aventra” trains.)

  • @rjflores438
    @rjflores438 7 місяців тому

    I actually syayed in Neuilly Sur Seine which is just outside the city limits but still feels like Paris. Alot of the suburbs of Paris like Clichy and Neully Sur Seine are really nice.

  • @eamonnmcmahon1704
    @eamonnmcmahon1704 Рік тому +7

    My wife and I visited Paris in 2016 and pretty much did all those things you advised. We've never been the kind to want to see as much as we can anyway as that's just stress. Even so, during a 4 day visit we got to see many of the well known sites. The best part was our accomodstion which was a lovely appartment in Meudeon, a quiet residential subarb 15 mins from the city on the C line to Versailles. Here we could soak up the vibe of a parisian neighbourhood, go to bars and resturants where we were the only tourists. So yes, you do not have to stay beside the Eiffel Tower ect. Had lunch at Le Cafe Pure where Before Sunset with Ethan Hawke & Julie Delphy was filmed. For us it's more about experiencing the vibe of a city, seeing how the locals live, socialising with them ect rather than being surrounded by tourists at all the major attractions. For such an expensive city, our appartment only cost us €150 for 4 nights, only 15 mins from the Eiffel tower and 20 mins from Versailles. I also got the heads up about the braclet scam from another Utuber before we went and yes, they tried this on us at Sacred Couer but we just walked away. I love your videos, have been to many of the cities you report from. I travelled throughout Europe in my 20's staying with friends in London, Bremen, Munich, Hechingen near Stuggart, Zurich, Salzburg Milan, Cuneo near Turin, Rome ect. All your travels bring back many memories of my own and like you I've lived for many years in Germany not far from Nurnberg and Bamburg. You're a great insperation to anyone who wishes to travel, get out of their comfort zone and experience the beauty and diversiveness of the world and it's many cultures. Next trip for us is Bordeaux for 6 days where we intend to just chill......with some great food and wine of course.

    • @citrine65
      @citrine65 Рік тому

      That sounds like the perfect Paris trip to me.
      Do you speak French?

    • @mariamurray3959
      @mariamurray3959 Рік тому

      Which air n b

    • @tindavid83
      @tindavid83 7 місяців тому

      Hi Can you recommend the apartment? Planning for 4 nights also. Thank you so much

  • @jlafunk
    @jlafunk 7 місяців тому

    Hi!
    I love these tips.
    I just got back from Paris (and only discovered your channel a few days ago) and your advice is spot on!
    I'd like to add: Don't stay by the Eiffel Tower- there's not much over there and you'll have to take the metro, bus, or water taxi to get everywhere else, plus I found the food over there to be not as good as elsewhere.
    I 100% agree: Don't pay for you hotel breakfast- I went to the local cafe and got a "filter" coffee & 2-3 pastries for 10 Euros or so. (I wanted to eat everything... so I did). I'd get my coffee and pastries, I'd walk to the park nearby (I was next to the Luxembourg Gardens) and just sit for 30 minutes or an hour and take it all in.
    The buses, Metro and RER are fairly easy to use but prepare to walk a lot. The only trick is figuring out which direction things are going in. Other than that, I was hoping on and off all the time.

  • @graemegalley400
    @graemegalley400 Рік тому

    Appreciate your comments. Planning to train from hamburg & stay in a hotel near the train station & metro to sights - after picking up a breakfast croissant for 2 euros. Then train to England. Believe those 2 stations are adjacent to each other. All in late October. Will keep researching till we go. Cheers

  • @nochenemo
    @nochenemo Рік тому +4

    I just returned from 4 days in Paris- This is a really great video. Like he said, you can't do everything. So yes, take that time to relax and just sit at a cafe or walk the streets with no destination in mind. We did not use the Metro- probably could have spread out a bit more but honestly we saw plenty walking and taking taxis- which are kind of like little tours through the city streets- The Metro is underground. It is indeed a busy place year round but our "off peak" trip in September was great. As Notre Dame was closed -we wanted to see the stained glass at Sainte Chappelle. The lines for pre purchased set times were long- We just got in the line for "need tickets people" and passed all of those people up. Same with the Louvre and Eiffel Tower. It is totally fine to just do the touristy things-especially if you may never return. Have fun and bring some super comfy shoes (wife and I actually walked a bunch for months leading up to the trip to get ready- and boy did we walk our buts off! The Language barrier was also a pretty non issue- and plenty of food to choose from if your not up for French Cuisine. (actually had really good Mexican Food our first night) We really enjoyed our trip.

    • @philwanadoo7435
      @philwanadoo7435 Рік тому

      2 lines are partially outside : south and north of the capital.

  • @jray5526
    @jray5526 Рік тому

    Love your tips. Im going soon thank you. 👍

  • @krazyshady902
    @krazyshady902 Рік тому +8

    I traveled to Paris last October and one thing I agree with is I spent most of my time running from one attraction to another. By time I left I felt like I didn't get to fully experience the city and culture as much as I wanted to. I am going to Italy this October and I will slow it down this time and take it in

    • @genxx2724
      @genxx2724 Рік тому

      How many days were you in Paris? How long will you be in Italy?

    • @krazyshady902
      @krazyshady902 Рік тому +2

      @@genxx2724 I was in Paris for 5 full days and it will be the same for Italy

    • @genxx2724
      @genxx2724 Рік тому +1

      @@krazyshady902 Fantabulous. I like the American standard of comfort in a hotel. Would it be too out of the way to stay at the Hilton in Paris?

    • @Solo-vh9fm
      @Solo-vh9fm Рік тому +1

      @@krazyshady902 I’m going to both for two nights each in the next couple of months, wish me luck (granted, as non-foodie, I prefer to see sights and burn some calories and I often have more time on my hands than I plan for)

    • @krazyshady902
      @krazyshady902 Рік тому +1

      @@Solo-vh9fmoh you'll do the most walking in your entire life. Just make sure you have good shoes

  • @lancefron1
    @lancefron1 5 місяців тому +1

    Great advice. I managed to see most of what I wanted in 3 days. But it requires making choices - such as choosing the Musee D'Orsay instead of the Louvre (more to enjoy in less time).

    • @joemccormack2446
      @joemccormack2446 5 місяців тому

      I’m planning on visiting Paris next year in May and deciding between 3 or 4 days, I do want to see the Louvre though 😅 do you reckon 3 days is defiantly enough?

  • @tobiojo9454
    @tobiojo9454 Рік тому +2

    Awesome video

  • @Olek2404
    @Olek2404 Рік тому +6

    I was in Paris, in 1964 and a 3-star hotel, on the Left Bank, cost US$10, per night. Now, the same hotel costs about US$280.
    Besides, I was in Paris, in 1972 and stayed, in a small hotel, on rue Des Petits Hotels, which means "street of small hotels".
    This street still exists and you can get a 2-star hotel, there, for US$90. Also, 50 years ago, there was practically no crime,
    in Paris, and no scams. I don't know, why things got worse, since then. And, as Mark once said - learn French, because then,
    you will feel at home, when in Paris. Greetings from Canada, Alex

    • @thunderbolt8409
      @thunderbolt8409 Рік тому

      because you have know the mass tourist
      it's the same everywhere

    • @thunderbolt8409
      @thunderbolt8409 Рік тому

      @remplacement TV lol no

    • @wallybag100
      @wallybag100 11 місяців тому

      I'm staying at hotel du Brabant on des petits hotel for 5 nights in Oct 2023 for under $400 canadian great deal kinda dumpy hotel

  • @jamesjackson3293
    @jamesjackson3293 Рік тому +5

    I always suggest learning a few key phrases in French to try and interact with anyone. Even just a Bonjour or Merci goes a long way in getting help. 2nd tip is not dressing in clothes with logos. I see so many wearing full sports teams etc and it's make them stand out in a crowd. I want to blend in as much as I can and not be a target for the scams. Air BNB is great to save cash and have what we need in terms of a place to shower and sleep since so much time is spent in the city.

  • @codeTRIP777B-TRIP00
    @codeTRIP777B-TRIP00 25 днів тому

    Thank you immensely for the wonderful video about traveling to Paris! Your detailed tips are perfect for newcomers like me who want to plan their itinerary carefully which can help me avoid mistake! After Spain I'm going to take the train to Italy, But I find France is between two of them my friend said take train is very convenient. And she also taught me how to buy cheap tickets! I can't wait for my exciting trip to Europe after my final exam!