Paris Local City Guide

Insider knowledge to experience Paris like a true Parisian

Check The Paris Trip

The Ultimate Local's Guide to Paris

Beyond the Eiffel Tower and Louvre

Paris Neighborhoods

Discover the authentic character of Paris through its diverse neighborhoods, each with its own personality and hidden treasures.

Montmartre

The village within the city, known for its artists, cobblestone streets, and the Sacré-Cœur. Local tip: Visit Place du Tertre in the early morning before the crowds arrive.

Le Marais

Historic Jewish quarter turned trendy district with boutique shops and LGBTQ+ friendly venues. Don't miss the falafel at L'As du Fallafel.

Canal Saint-Martin

Where Parisians picnic along the water. Best experienced with a bottle of wine and some cheese from the local fromagerie.

Paris neighborhood streets

Where Parisians Eat

  • Boulangeries: Du Pain et des Idées (7th arr.) for the best croissants
  • Bistros: Chez la Vieille in Les Halles for authentic cuisine
  • Markets: Marché d'Aligre for local produce and antiques
  • Wine Bars: Le Baron Rouge for natural wines by the glass

Parisian Drinking Culture

  • Apéritif time is sacred - usually 7-9pm
  • Try a "kir" (white wine with crème de cassis) or "kir royal" (with champagne)
  • Local beers: Paname and BAP (Parisian Brewery)
  • After-hours at experimental cocktail bars like Little Red Door

Getting Around Like a Local

Public Transport

 

  • Buy a "carnet" of 10 metro tickets for €16.90 (cheaper than single tickets)
  • Download Citymapper app for real-time transit info
  • Night buses (Noctilien) run when metro closes

Vélib' Bikes

 

  • Paris' bike share system with 1,400 stations
  • Day pass: €5, week pass: €15
  • Best for short trips along the Seine

Walking

 

  • Paris is surprisingly walkable
  • Discover hidden passages between buildings
  • Use the Seine banks when possible

Parisian Cultural Codes

1

Greetings Matter

Always say "Bonjour" when entering shops and "Au revoir" when leaving. A simple smile goes a long way.

2

Dining Etiquette

Wait to be seated in cafés, don't rush meals, and remember that service is included (no need for big tips).

3

Sunday Traditions

Many shops close on Sundays except in tourist areas. Parisians spend Sundays at markets, parks, or brunching.

Seasonal Paris

Spring (Mar-May)

Cherry blossoms at Parc de Sceaux, open-air cafés return, Nuit Blanche festival

Summer (Jun-Aug)

Paris Plages (beaches along the Seine), outdoor cinema at Parc de la Villette

Autumn (Sep-Nov)

Grape harvest in Montmartre, Nuit Blanche art festival, fall foliage in parks

Winter (Dec-Feb)

Christmas markets, ice skating at Hôtel de Ville, cozy wine bars

Local Secrets

1

Free Museum Days

First Sunday of each month offers free entry to many museums including Musée d'Orsay and Centre Pompidou.

2

Secret Passages

Discover covered passages like Galerie Vivienne with their 19th century charm and boutique shops.

3

Local Hangouts

Parisians love the Buttes-Chaumont park (especially for picnics) and the Petite Ceinture abandoned railway.

Ready to Experience the Real Paris?

Let our local guides show you the Paris we love - beyond the guidebooks and tourist traps.