How To Plan A Solo Trip To Paris
How To Plan A Solo Trip To Paris
There’s something magical about traveling to Paris, whether with a group or even on a solo trip. The city’s rich history, stunning architecture, and iconic landmarks make it one of the most beautiful and exciting places to visit.
While most people think of Paris as a romantic getaway or a girls’ trip, it’s an amazing place to explore solo.
You get to do exactly what you want, at your own pace, without worrying about anyone else’s schedule.
Whether it’s soaking up the art, strolling the streets, or eating your weight in croissants, a solo trip to Paris lets you take it all in on your terms.
If the thought of planning your own adventure feels a bit overwhelming, don’t worry. With a little preparation, you’ll be well on your way to experiencing the City of Light like a local.
Today, I’m sharing a solo traveler’s guide to Paris, filled with tips and recommendations to help you make the most of your trip.
How To Plan A Solo Trip To Paris
Getting your solo trip to Paris off the ground is all about knowing when to go, where to stay, and how to get around. Here’s what you need to know before you pack your bags.
1. Pick the Perfect Time to Go
Paris is magical year-round, but certain times are better depending on your interests. Spring and fall are great if you want mild weather and fewer crowds, while summer is packed but full of energy.
Winter, especially around the holidays, has a charm all its own with festive lights and cozy vibes. Decide what suits your style, and plan accordingly.
Also, think about your budget because airfare, hotel, and apartment costs could be higher depending on when you go.
2. Stay in Safe, Central Locations
When you’re traveling alone, location is everything. You’ll want to stay somewhere central, like the Latin Quarter, Le Marais, or near the Eiffel Tower, so you’re close to the must-see spots and well within bustling, safe areas.
Paris is pretty easy to navigate, but being close to the action will make your trip a breeze—and you’ll have more time to explore rather than commuting.
My favorite area to stay when I travel to Paris is Saint Germain-des-Prés, on the left bank. The area is perfect for wandering the streets alone to discover what this famous area is known for.
Grab a baguette sandwich from a local café such as Copain or Binôme, and do as the Parisians do.
Sit in the Jardin du Luxembourg and enjoy the beauty of the garden. It’s the perfect place for relaxation and genuinely experiencing the French lifestyle.
3. How To Get Around Paris On A Solo Trip
For female solo travelers, Paris is one of the best places to feel safe while wandering simultaneously.
The best time to see the city is early morning when it’s quiet, and the streets are empty.
Grab a coffee, head out to enjoy the city to yourself, be what the French call a flâneur, and wander aimlessly. Paris is full of hidden gems; you never know what you will discover.
Just make sure you pack comfortable shoes to walk as Paris is definitely a walking city full of cobblestone streets.
However, public transportation in Paris is excellent when you need to get somewhere quickly or don’t want to walk.
There are many options, such as a taxi, uber, bus, and, of course, the metro, which is fast, affordable, and takes you pretty much anywhere you need to go.
Tip: Make sure when you are researching ahead of time your hotel or apartment is near a metro station in case you need one.
You can download a metro map ahead of time to help with planning purposes. I also like to download and use an app called Citymapper, which gives you all the various routes and modes of transportation to your destination.
If you are going to use the bus and metro a majority of the time, you can purchase what’s called a Visite Travel Pass. It allows access across various public transport networks: metros, trams, buses, RER and SNCF Transilien train lines, and it’s valid for 1,2,3, or 5 days.
Before you come, it. might be a good idea to use google maps to plan out your locations or save spots you know you want to visit.
This way it might make things a bit easier when it comes to knowing which mode of transportation you need to take.
What To Do In Paris Alone As A Solo Traveler
One of the best things about being solo in Paris is that you follow your curiosity, from famous landmarks to off-the-beaten-path experiences.
You can take your time seeing the sights you are interested in without feeling rushed. There’s also the option of visiting places on your own or hiring a tour guide for a more in-depth experience.
There’s no shortage of things to do on a solo trip to Paris, so here are a few ideas to get you started.
1. Visit Iconic Landmarks
No trip to Paris is complete without visiting its famous landmarks. Start your day with a view of the Eiffel Tower, and then make your way to the Arc de Triomphe for a panoramic view of the city.
Take a stroll along the Champs-Élysées and end your day at Place de la Concorde, soaking in the atmosphere of this historic square.
Head to Montmartre to visit the Sacre Cœur; after visiting the beautiful inside of the church, climb to the top for another panoramic view of the city. Then, spend the rest of the day walking the area.
2. Explore the Museums
Paris is home to some of the world’s most famous art collections, and going solo means you can take your time.
Visit the Louvre and say hi to the Mona Lisa, or head to the Musée d’Orsay for its stunning collection of Impressionist art.
If you’re feeling adventurous, check out the Centre Pompidou for modern and contemporary pieces.
Check museum hours ahead of time and consider the Paris Museum Pass if you want to visit multiple museums and monuments during your trip.
3. Take a Walking Tour
Walking tours are a great way to get to know the city and meet other travelers. Try a guided tour of the Latin Quarter or dive into the food scene with a culinary walk through Le Marais.
You could even take a day trip from Paris to Versailles to get your fill of French history and royal flair.
4. Visit A Flea Market
If you’re an antique lover, you can visit one of the many Paris flea markets or maybe even come upon a local brocante happening on the weekend.
5. Shop Like The Locals
If you like to shop, there’s no better place than Paris. Besides being full of local boutiques and high-end designer stores, check out some of my favorites, such as Le Bon Marché, Sézane, Maison Standards, and Bobbies for shoes.
If you want to shop at the high end, head to Rue Saint-Honoré and Avenue Montaigne.
Where To Eat On A Solo Trip To Paris
Dining solo in Paris is a treat all its own. You’ll find no shortage of delicious food and cozy spots that are perfect for a solo meal, whether you want to people-watch or just savor the food.
1. Café de Flore
This iconic spot in Saint-Germain-des-Prés is a Parisian classic. It’s perfect for solo travelers, with its sidewalk seating and endless people-watching opportunities.
One of my favorite things to do in Paris is sit at a café early in the morning for breakfast with my coffee and just people watch as the Parisians head to work or school in their stylish outfits.
2. Saint Regis Café
Located on the charming island of Île Saint-Louis, the Saint Régis Café, is so incredibly charming and picturesque both inside and outside, and very welcoming for a solo traveler.
Go for a croissant and coffee in the morning or a glass of wine on the terrace in the evening. This is a beautiful spot to relax anytime of the day.
3. Holybelly 5
If you’re in the mood for something modern and laid-back, Holybelly 5 is a great spot for solo travelers.
Located near the Canal Saint-Martin, it has a communal vibe and is known for its amazing brunch. (Pro tip: be sure to order the pancakes!)
Is Paris Safe For Solo Travel?
The short answer? Yes, Paris is generally safe for solo travelers, including solo female travelers. That said, it’s always smart to stay alert, especially in crowded areas or at night.
Stick to well-lit, busy streets, and don’t flash valuables like your phone or wallet. The metro is safe during the day, but if you’re out late, it might be a good idea to grab a cab or use a ride-sharing app to get back to your hotel.
Paris has been visited by solo travelers from all over the world, and by following basic safety precautions, you can enjoy your time in Paris without any worries.
Scams To Look Out For As A Solo Traveler
Even through Paris is very safe and I feel completely at ease their as a solo traveler, there are still a few common scams to be aware of just so you’re prepared and not taken off guard.
Most of these common scams are taking place in crowded tourist areas as well. Beware anytime someone wants you to sign a peition, they are trying to distract you while someone else steals your belongings.
If they approach and ask if you speak English, just ignore them and walk past. Also, lookout for the gold ring scam where they will come up to you and ask if you’ve lost a gold ring and either distract you or try and sell it back to you.
Just use common sense in high crowded tourist areas and keep your valuables securely next to you and you won’t have an issue.
3 Day Trip Itinerary Example
Here’s an example of 3 days in Paris to help inspire your trip. This can vary depending on where you want to go and how long you choose to stay in each spot. However, if I only had 3 days in Paris, here’s what I might do.
Trip Itinerary
Day 1
- Breakfast at Café Marly
- Explore the Louvre for 2 hours
- Walk through the Tuileries
- Head to Palais Royal to walk around
- Lunch at Bistro Vivienne
- Walk down Rue Saint Honoré To Place Vendome
- Dinner at Ellsworth or Chez Georges
Day 2
- Breakfast at Café de Flore (get there before 8:30)
- Wander around Saint Germain
- Shop at Le Bon Marché And Le Grand Épicerie
- Head to the Luxembourg Gardens for a bit of relaxation, and take a book
- Have a glass of wine at Bonaparte Cafe, and people watch all the chic Parisians going by
- Dinner at Les Antiquaires. Order the French Onion soup
Day 3
- Breakfast Saint Regis Café (scrambled eggs are best in the city).
- Walk around the island.
- Head over to Notre Dame and walk around.
- Go across the river to the Marais and head to Places Des Vosges.
- Wander the area.
- Dinnerat Chez Janou or Breizh Café for a Crêpe.
Common FAQ’s
If you’ve traveled solo to Paris, share your experience in the comments below—I’d love to hear how your trip went!