Paris, the City of Love – and that can mean the City of Self Love, right?
This charming and iconic city has more than enough to enjoy for solo travelers. And who knows? You could just fall head over heels in love… with the amazing sights, culture, and food because, oh mon Dieu, is it magical.
Image Credit: Getty Images, Olena_Z. Image Location: Notre Dame, Paris, France.
See the icons of Paris
For first timers, be sure to get a good view of the Eiffel Tower and Arc de Triomphe – and buy tickets ahead of time to go inside at least one of the structures.
Pro-tip: Most people know they can go to the top of the Eiffel Tower, but the views from the Arc de Triomphe are equally beautiful and generally less crowded. Take in the picturesque residential architecture, grandiose statues, and the hundreds of thousands of trees that line the city streets. Once you’re back on the ground, treat yourself at one the city’s many crêpe stands.
Definitely visit a Parisian museum or two; art colors the city and inspires creative works of every kind. If you love the Impressionists, you must visit the Musée d'Orsay, which is housed in a former railway station along the Seine River.
The Louvre is the most popular museum. To spend your time well, be sure to have a general plan of what you want to see – the space is truly énorme. While you’re there, say bonjour to da Vinci’s famous Mona Lisa, but don’t be surprised when you push through the crowd of admirers and find the painting to be très petit. No worries, though, beautiful creations abound, and the museum’s architecture itself is a sight to behold.
Speaking of the Seine, book a boat ride and float along the river while sightseeing and people-watching, perhaps while sipping a glass of France’s inexpensive and delicious wine. Or buy a whole bottle and head for one of the city’s beautiful gardens, like Jardin du Luxembourg, once you return to land.
Image Credit: Getty Images, Westend61. Image Location: Paris, France.
Eat to your heart's content across Paris
For the love of all things bonne, please enjoy the rich, mouthwatering cuisine. Visit a small boulangerie for breakfast and buy yourself a croissant or pain au chocolat with some freshly squeezed orange juice and rich French coffee. Note: A lot of these places may be cash only, so bring some euros with you! Find a cute place for lunch in neighborhoods like Le Marais, Latin Quarter, Montmartre, and Saint-Germain-des-Prés.
You can go for traditional French food at small, charming restaurants like Le Casse Noix, or enjoy morsels from the many other cultures that call the city home, like the scrumptious sandwiches at the multicultural Nonette Banh Mi & Donuts.
Walk off your lunch visiting shops, galleries, and parks, then eat somewhere equally marvelous for dinner. And be sure to get dessert; to not order it would simply be un-Parisian in a city that prides itself on hedonism.
Image Credit: Getty Images, Alexander Spatari. Image Location: Paris, France.
Is Paris good for solo travelers?
Oui oui, Paris is great for solo travel. It’s also one of the most visited cities in the world, so you will likely find other tourists who could use a friend, too! Just know that some Parisians might not be as eager to talk to you, especially if you don’t speak French. However, experiences tend to be hit or miss, and some would argue that Parisians are extremely warm even if you don't speak the local lingo! There are even some local Americanophiles or Anglophiles out there who may want to practice English with you.
Can you enjoy Paris alone?
You can definitely enjoy Paris alone. There is so much to do, and you can use your time there to eat, meander, enjoy, and reflect. Just pretend you’re Ernest Hemingway planning out a new novel!
Is it normal to dine alone in Paris?
Dining alone in Paris is totally fine. Just don’t expect the waiter to make small talk with you. People don’t generally tip in France, so there is no need for them to be extra nice for more money.
Is Paris safe as a solo female traveler?
Paris is a big city, so you could walk past pickpockets, scammers, and some generally less-than-nice guys. But as long as you maintain your awareness, look like you know what you’re doing, and monitor your bag and phone at all times, you should be safe. There are also plenty of safe and secure ways to travel around the city, for example using city maps or hopping on the Metro. However, if you want to be on the side of caution there are readily available taxis or Ubers around the city.
Download the Trainline app, travel in ease to Paris and your next solo destination!
Header Image Credit: Getty Images, Alexander Spatari. Image Location: Paris, France.