The city of light – Paris is a dream destination for international students as well as for travel enthusiasts. The city is renowned for its rich and traditional history boasted by its magnificent architecture and vibrant culture.
If you are planning to escalate your career to further heights in this fantastic city as an international student or as a travel explorer, this Paris city guide is going to ease your journey. Keep reading further for a detailed Paris city guide.
Table of contents
- Paris City Guide: Exploring Top Attractions
- Paris City Guide: A Walking Tour
- Best Day Trips from Paris
- Paris City Guide: Getting Around
- Paris City Guide: Affordable Housing
- Paris City Guide: Food and Dining
- Paris City Guide: Essential French Phrases
- Paris City Guide: Tips for International Students
- FAQs on Paris City Guide
Paris City Guide: Exploring Top Attractions
Paris is renowned for its key attractions, iconic landmarks, and hidden gems. It is the most populous city in France with world-class hospitality and friendly nature. If you are planning to visit Paris soon, be sure to check out some of the top attractions in Paris.
Eiffel Tower
No trip to Paris is complete without visiting the iconic Eiffel Tower. You can take an elevator ride to the top for a breathtaking view of the city. Since 1889, it has been the most visited monument with entrance fees in the world with 6.91 million people ascended it in 2015.
Catacombs of Paris
For a unique experience, visit the Catacombs of Paris. These underground ossuaries hold the remains of over six million people. Make sure to book your Catacombs of Paris tickets in advance to avoid long queues.
Louvre Museum
If you find yourself an art enthusiast, be sure to explore the Louvre museum which is home to the Mona Lisa and thousands of other works of art. The best part about this museum is, that it offers discounted or free entry to students only. Even if you’re not an art lover, the museum’s architecture and the beautiful Tuileries Garden are worth a visit.
Notre-Dame Cathedral
For stunning views Don’t miss climbing to the top of Notre-Dame Cathedral – a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. Although it’s under renovation after the 2019 fire, you can still admire its Gothic architecture from the outside and visit nearby attractions.
Montmartre
For a charming neighborhood with artistic history and the beautiful Sacré-Cœur Basilica, try exploring Montmartre. Don’t miss taking a boat cruise to see Paris from the water. It’s especially magical at night.
Also Read: Wondering about the student accommodation cost? Check out our blog – Average Cost of Student Accommodation – UK, USA, Canada
Paris City Guide: A Walking Tour
One of the best ways to explore Paris is on foot. There are many Paris city walking tours available that you can prefer as an international student or an explorer. Paris city guide is incomplete without discovering the city on foot and taking free walking tours in Paris.
Free Walking Tours Paris
Free Walking Tours Paris are a great way to see and explore the city without spending a lot of money. Experienced guides will take you through the most famous landmarks and share fascinating stories about the city’s history. Paris city walking tour will be an unforgettable experience of your journey for sure.
Historical Paris City Walking Tours
You may also try Paris city walking tours that will provide you with a glance at the history of the city. Know about Paris’s past with a tour that focuses on its rich history, from medieval times to the French Revolution.
Best Day Trips from Paris
While studying in the city, it is really important to escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. It actually keeps you motivated, excited, and fresh during your academic journey in the city. If you have extra time, consider going on one of the best day trips from Paris.
Versailles
The magnificent Palace of Versailles is an ideal place and one of the best day trips from Paris. This palace is known for its opulent rooms and stunning gardens. It’s just a short train ride from Paris and you can easily plan this to have one of the best day trips from Paris.
Giverny
One of the best day trips from Paris is to explore the beautiful gardens and home of Claude Monet, the famous impressionist painter in Giverny for sure. It is a peaceful place and serves as an ideal escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. You can either choose the bus or the French rail system to commute for this one of the best day trips from Paris.
Disneyland Paris
Another best day trip from Paris or for a fun day out, head to Disneyland Paris. Whether you’re travelling with friends or just love theme parks, it’s a magical experience. It is one of the most expensive in the world providing you with a non-stop centralised experience. With nearly 15 million visitors every year, it is one of Europe’s leading private tourist destinations.
Paris City Guide: Getting Around
In this Paris travel guide let’s talk about how you can commute and get around in the city while exploring, The country boasts its well-connected transportation and French rail connect that will keep you connected to this vibrant city. Subway, buses, and trams are some of the other options with the help of which you can commute in the city. Here’s what you need to know in this Paris City guide for commutation.
- Metro: The quickest way to travel around Paris. Buy a “Navigo” card for unlimited travel on the Metro, buses, and trams.
- Buses and Trams: Great for seeing the city above ground. Use the same Navigo card.
- Biking: Paris has many bike lanes and a bike-sharing system called Vélib’. Rent a bike for a fun and eco-friendly way to get around.
Recommended Read: Don’t miss our blog on German Dining Etiquette, if you are studying in Germany!
Paris City Guide: Affordable Housing
Finding a place to live in Paris can be challenging. But if you are an international student and searching for ideal student accommodation in Paris, Fly Homes is at your service. There are various options to live and reside in this vibrant city while identifying affordable housing is a daunting task. You may explore various places to live in Paris like:
University Housing
University housing is also referred to as on-campus student accommodation in Paris. If you are planning to move to this vibrant city for further studies, you may choose on-campus student accommodation for affordable and convenient housing. Many universities offer dormitories for students. Try to apply early to secure one of the best student accommodation in Paris!
Private Rentals
You may also choose to stay and reside in private rentals during your academic journey in this beautiful city. There are various websites like Fly Homes and many more that offer private apartments for rent. Sharing an apartment with other students can reduce costs effectively. You may choose shared apartments for affordable housing in Paris.
Student Residences
For some other options in student housing properties, you may consider choosing student residences or student halls of residences (résidences étudiantes) that provide affordable and convenient living spaces. Try to understand the tenancy agreement before signing it. The rent might be on the higher side in these kinds of student accommodations but be sure to check out in advance.
Homestays
Homestays are where you stay with a local host family who will provide you with a room, meals, and cultural immersion. They can be a great way to learn French, experience the Parisian lifestyle, and make new friends.
Further Read: Want to learn more about German culture? Refer to our blog and learn the Difference Between German and American Culture!
Paris City Guide: Food and Dining
Paris is a food lover’s paradise. Next on the list in the Paris city guide is how to enjoy food and dining on a student budget. Don’t miss out on exploring some of the traditional food cuisine in France.
- Boulangeries (Bakeries): Grab a fresh baguette or croissant for breakfast.
- Cafés: Enjoy a coffee or a simple meal. Many offer affordable “plat du jour” (daily specials).
- Markets: Visit local markets for fresh produce, cheese, and more. Marché Bastille and Marché d’Aligre are popular choices.
- Street Food: Try crêpes, falafel, and other street food for a quick, tasty, and inexpensive meal.
Paris City Guide: Essential French Phrases
While many Parisians speak English, learning a few French phrases can make your life easier. You should at least know how to greet in France. Some of the French phrases can be really helpful in the Paris city guide.
- Bonjour (Hello)
- Merci (Thank you)
- S’il vous plaît (Please)
- Parlez-vous anglais? (Do you speak English?)
- Où est…? (Where is…?)
Paris City Guide: Tips for International Students
Here are some tips in the Paris city guide that you can consider during your academic journey in the city.
- Always carry your student ID. Many museums, attractions, and even restaurants offer discounts for students.
- Paris has an extensive public transport system. The metro, buses, and trams are convenient and affordable ways to get around the city.
- While many people in Paris speak English, learning a few basic French phrases can help you connect with locals.
- Paris is generally safe, but like any big city, it’s important to stay aware of your surroundings, especially at night and in crowded areas.
- Paris is generally safe, but be mindful of pickpockets, especially in tourist areas.
- Discover the lesser-known neighbourhoods and parks. They often offer a more authentic Parisian experience.
- Paris can be expensive, so plan your budget carefully. Use student discounts whenever possible.
FAQs on Paris City Guide
Some of the must-visit key attractions in Paris include:
– Eiffel Tower: Visit for stunning city views.
– Louvre Museum: Home to the Mona Lisa and thousands of other artworks.
– Notre-Dame Cathedral: Admire the Gothic architecture.
– Catacombs of Paris: Explore the underground ossuaries.
There are two ways in which you can get tickets for the Catacombs of Paris.
– Online Booking: It’s best to book your Catacombs of Paris tickets online in advance to avoid long queues.
– On-Site Purchase: Limited tickets are available on-site, but the wait can be long.
Indeed, There are several companies offering free walking tours Paris. They are tip-based, so you can pay what you think the tour was worth.
Some of the best day trips from Paris include:
– Versailles: Visit the Grand Palace of Versailles and its gardens.
– Giverny: See Monet’s home and gardens.
– Disneyland Paris: Enjoy a magical day at the theme park.
The well-connected public transport system will keep you connected in this vibrant city. Use the metro, buses, and trams for convenient travel while you will find most of the attractions within walking distance of each other. Or you can also rent a bike or electric scooter for a fun way to explore.
Paris is a city that captivates the heart of every visitor. From its iconic landmarks and rich history to its charming streets and vibrant culture, there’s always something new to discover. Enjoy every moment, make new friends, and get involved in the Parisian way of life. Bonne chance (good luck) and enjoy your time in Paris!
Hope you liked reading our blog about the Paris city guide. For a stress-free stay during your study abroad adventure, choose Fly Homes. Call 1800572118 to reserve your ideal accommodation abroad with ease.
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