When I planned my first solo trip in Europe, I spent most of my time researching about how to get around Paris on my own. It was overwhelming at first. I don’t know where to start. I was doubtful if I could really do it. Would it be possible for me to see a lot of places in 1 day?
If you are reading this and in the same situation, I’m here to tell you that it’s possible… but challenging. Well most DIY’s are really challenging especially if you are going to do it alone. I know how hard it is and I want to share some tips on how you will manage it like I did.
What To Prepare?
Paris Metro Map app– I love this app for the fact that it’s FREE, you can use it offline and it’s really easy to use. This is a must if you want to take the metro in Paris. Taking the metro will help you travel within Paris on a budget. Each metro ticket costs only £1.99.
Google Maps app – download Paris map in Google Maps app so you can also use it offline to help you get around Paris. Start saving/marking the places in your map so you can easily navigate it once you are in Paris.
Orange Holiday Sim – you can buy the sim at Relay shops. It only costs £39.99 and you can use it all over Europe. It has 120 min + 1000 texts, and 10 GB data.
Where To Stay?
On my last day in Paris I stayed in Vintage Hostel. I would recommend this hostel. It’s close to the metro station (1 stop away from Gare Du Nord station), the room is really clean and they have a nice shower room. The place is very secured too.
Stay away from Hostel Blue Planet. It’s where I stayed on my first 2 nights in Paris. I only stayed there because it’s very close to Gare De Lyon station. I booked for a 2-bed dormitory room but when I arrived there they gave me a 3-bed dormitory room. Me and my roommates had to share one key. There’s only one power outlet that all three of us had to share. We had one small shower room and the common toilet is outside which is to be shared by the guests in our floor.
What’s The Best Way To See Paris?
Most tourist spots in Paris like the Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, Notre-Dame Cathedral, etc. are close to Seine River. The best way to see Paris is by boat and I would recommend BatoBus Paris. It only costs £17 for a whole day hop-in, hop-off tour. It will give you enough time to explore Paris in a convenient way. There’s no traffic and you have the best view of Paris.
BONUS: My Favorite Spots for Photoshoots in Paris
If you want to have great photos from your trip in Paris, these places make a perfect location.
Louvre Museum
Jardin des Plantes
Eiffel Tower view from Pont de Bir-Hakeim. The best time to come here is during sunset.
Pont de Bir-Hakeim also known as the Inception Bridge where a scene from the movie The Inception was shot.
Pont Alexandre III. The bridge is one of the most beautiful bridges in Paris.
Arc De Triomphe. It’s best to come here during sunset.
Are you planning to go to Paris anytime soon? Drop me a message and i’ll be glad to give you more information, tips and suggestions. Happy travels!