I still remember the first time I finally set foot in Paris. For years, it had been on my list, almost a dream. And yet, my very first trip didn’t happen until 2021. It felt late, considering how long I had been craving the city, but maybe it was perfect timing. Because since then, Paris has wrapped itself around my heart in ways I didn’t expect.

Every year since, I’ve gone back. Sometimes alone, sometimes with friends, sometimes for work. I’ve had my bachelorette party in Paris, I’ve done photo shoots there, I’ve walked endlessly on my own and shared croissants with people I love. Seven trips later, Paris feels like home. A place I know well, but also a city that keeps surprising me.

What I’ve learned over these visits is that Paris is not just a checklist of landmarks. It’s a rhythm, a feeling, a way of moving through a city with curiosity and openness. And if you let it, Paris will give you more than just photo opportunities, it will give you memories, insights, and magic.

Here are my biggest lessons from visiting Paris seven times, plus some of my personal go-to spots and tips.

1. Paris is Meant to Be Walked

If I had to give you one tip, it would be this: walk as much as possible.

Yes, the metro is convenient and you’ll probably use it when heading to the airport or covering a long distance. But the heart of Paris isn’t underground. It’s in the streets, the corners you didn’t expect to turn, the views of the Seine you stumble across when you weren’t planning to.

I’ve walked for hours in Paris, sometimes three to four hours in one go. And honestly, those were my favourite days. My advice? Bring comfortable walking shoes, a fully charged phone, and a sense of adventure.

My favorite parks & gardens:

Parc Monceau, 17. Arr.
Jardin des Plantes, 5. Arr.
Jardin du Luxembourg, 6. Arr.
Parc des Buttes-Chaumont, 19. Arr.
Jardin des Tuileries, 1. Arr.

2. Don’t Try to See Everything at Once

It’s tempting to fill your trip with every single landmark you’ve ever dreamed of: the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, Montmartre, Versailles. But here’s the thing: if you try to see everything in one trip, you’ll miss what makes Paris truly special.

The magic of Paris is not in rushing from sight to sight. It’s in sitting at a café for two hours just watching the world go by. And while you’re sitting there, notice the people around you, especially the women. Parisian women have a sense of style that feels effortless and deeply inspiring. From the way they dress, to how they order their food, to how they laugh and chat with friends. There’s so much to observe and take in. I often find myself learning more about style and elegance in those quiet moments of watching than I ever could from a fashion magazine. Of course, you should absolutely see the classics, the Eiffel Tower sparkling at night is worth it every single time. But don’t overload your days with four or five “must-do’s.” Instead, leave room for strolling, discovering, and feeling.

“The magic of Paris is not in rushing from sight to sight. It’s in sitting at a café for two hours just watching the world go by.”

3. Choose Your Neighborhood With Intention

Paris is made up of so many districts, and each has its own personality. For me, I always seem to end up around Le Marais. It’s central, lively, full of small cafés, matcha spots, and boutiques. From here, you can walk to many of the city’s highlights, and you’re surrounded by that mix of charm and energy that Paris does so well.

If you want a more local, intimate vibe, look for Airbnbs or hotels in areas just outside the center. Often, the apartments there are more “typically French” (think big windows, rustic floors, balconies with those classic french iron railings). Just make sure you’re still within walking distance of where you want to spend your time.

And if you’re a woman traveling alone, here’s my personal tip: During the day you can walk, explore, and enjoy everything Paris has to offer. But when it comes to evenings, I personally make sure I’m back in my apartment by 8 or 9 p.m. at the latest. I honestly do that with every city trip, no matter how big the city. I don’t think Paris is especially dangerous but I would never risk my safety for a late dinner out. It’s just not worth it for me and it shouldn’t be for you either. And if you do want to stay out for dinner or a later activity just don’t walk home alone at night. Splurge on an Uber or a taxi, it’s so worth the peace of mind to know you’ll get back safely.

4. Food is the Experience

Paris is not just about eating: it’s about how you eat.

Breakfast outdoors with a coffee and croissant. Grabbing a baguette and cheese for a picnic by the Seine. Wandering into a little bistro for dinner and letting the waiter recommend something local.

If you’re gluten-free, plan ahead. Paris has more and more gluten-free bakeries and restaurants, especially in younger, trendier districts like Le Marais (3. Arr.). If gluten is no issue for you, make it your mission to explore a new bakery every day, you won't regret it.

One tip: if you’re a matcha lover like I am, don’t order it in a typical café (this honestly is the same in all cities). Many cafés add it to the menu because it’s trendy, but it won’t always be good. Do your research and seek out the real matcha spots. (In Le Marais, you’ll find some gems!)

Also, don’t underestimate the joy of a simple supermarket visit. Pick up crackers, fruit, cheese, and a bottle of wine, and create your own charcuterie night at home in your Airbnb. It’s cozy, affordable, and honestly just as Parisian as going out.

My two cents on indulging in croissants & baguettes: Paris is a city where you really can (and should) enjoy carbs. Don’t be afraid to indulge in croissants, baguettes, eclairs or the traditional pain au chocolat. It’s a vacation, and the taste is unlike anywhere else in the world. Plus, all the walking you’ll do around the city will help balance it out.

If you’re staying in an Airbnb, many have a capsule coffee machine, bringing your favourite coffee capsules can save money and let you enjoy your preferred routine. The same goes for matcha: if it’s part of your daily ritual, bring a travel matcha set so you can start the day just the way you like.

Don’t eat out around the Eiffel Tower area, it’s just way too expensive for not that high quality food.

Here are some restaurant & coffee shop recommendations by me:

Le Progres Montmatre (go for a cheese & charcuterie board), 18. Arr.

Ober Mamma (LOVED the truffle pasta & if you can reserve your spot right when they open up the doors for a little italian surprise) or any other of the Ober Mamma restaurants, 11. Arr.

Le Charivari (stumbled across this little gem on the look out for a quick lunch spot and loved the french onion soup & vibe of the place itself), 6. Arr.

Café de Flore (obviously the most touristic spot but in my opinion but you can’t go wrong with it -> choose the chocolat spécial flore to be even more cliché, if there’s no free table on the terrace try the first floor, it’s so cute), 6. Arr

Chez Janou (haven’t been there yet myself but it has been recommended to me multiple times so it definitely is on my list, another reason to go back to Paris next year yaay), 3. Arr.

And YES hear me out: There's probably a thousand more recs I could give you but the fact is that most of the time I just wander around the city and end up in some small little café without even knowing where I am. So be spontaneous as well because those treats I just gave you are around every little corner in Paris.


 

5. Shop With Intention

I love shopping in Paris but I don’t mean rushing to Zara or H&M. Those stores exist everywhere. Instead, I like to invest in one meaningful piece from each trip. Something small and special that will remind me of Paris every time I use it.

For me, that’s often jewelry or accessories. On my first trip, I stumbled into a tiny jewelry shop and bought dainty little earrings. I still wear them daily, and every time I do, I remember that Paris trip. Another time, I splurged on a pair of Anine Bing sunglasses, and they’ve become my go-to.

My advice: save your budget for something that will last and carry the memory of your trip with you whether it’s jewelry, a bag, or even just a book from a Parisian bookstore.

You can also collect small, unique items that aren’t necessarily fashion-related. On one trip, I bought a high-quality print at the Claude Monet Museum. Now it sits in my apartment, and every time I see it, I remember Paris. Prints like this are easy to carry in a laptop case or suitcase and don’t take up much space. Another idea is a little coffee or tea cup from the little store at the corner. Every time you use it at home, it will instantly transport you back to Paris. Little reminders like these can be just as meaningful as a piece of jewelry.

Lastly, if you love wellness and skincare, treat yourself to something special. My favourite is a facial at AIME Glow Studio in Le Marais. I also get supplements and collagen drinks there. It’s usually fully booked, but if you plan ahead, it’s worth it — one of the best facials I’ve ever had.

6. Art is Everywhere

Paris is a city for art lovers. Of course, the Louvre is iconic, even just standing outside and seeing the glass pyramid is breathtaking. But don’t stop there.

I personally love Claude Monet, so I always seek out his work when I’m in Paris. I even took a day trip to Giverny once to visit his house and gardens. If you plan to do the same, buy your tickets online from an official source (to avoid scams), and go as early as possible to beat the crowds.

If you have even more time, explore smaller museums or just spend time in the city’s many gardens (like Jardin des Tuileries or Jardin des Plantes). Grab a coffee, bring your journal and soak in the atmosphere.

7. Slow Down and Soak It In

This might be the most important lesson of all: let Paris be slow.

Sit in a café by yourself. Order lunch, watch French women walk by in their impossibly chic outfits, admire the apartments across the street. Write in your journal, listen to music, or simply do nothing at all.

Paris rewards the slow traveler. The one who notices the details, who wanders without a plan, who isn’t afraid to sit still.

My Paris Survival Kit

After so many trips, I’ve realised there are a few essentials that make a Paris trip so much smoother and more enjoyable. Here’s my personal checklist:

- Comfortable walking shoes (non-negotiable for hours of strolling)
- Headphones for your playlist or a good podcast
- A journal + a light-weight book (perfect for parks or cafés)
- Reusable water bottle (staying hydrated is key)
- Snacks (fruit, crackers, or a croissant for spontaneous park picnics)
- An open mindset (don’t cling to Google Maps, let yourself wander)

A Few Go-To Spots I Love

Le Marais: My favourite neighbourhood to stay in, full of cafés and boutiques.
Jardin des Tuileries: Perfect for journaling and people-watching.
Any local bakery: Truly, you can’t go wrong.
Small jewelry shops: The best places for meaningful souvenirs.
Supermarkets: Yes, really. They make for the best cozy nights in, save you money & make you explore new products.

My Closing Thoughts

Paris has taught me so much in just seven trips. It’s not about cramming everything in. It’s about slowing down, wandering, indulging, and noticing the beauty in the details.

I will continue going to Paris once a year for as long as it’s possible for me. Not because I haven’t already seen so much — but because there is still so much left to discover. I know Paris holds endless magic, and I cannot wait to fall in love with the city even more, trip after trip.