I love Paris. Since my first visit for a work trip in 1998, I’ve been back many times and got to know it better each time. However, 2025 was the year I stopped feeling so much like a tourist and started feeling more like part of the city. I commuted to work, had a local boulangère, and explored with every spare moment. I learned a lot about this beautiful city and its way of life, so for anyone planning their own Parisian adventure, here’s my list of top tips for visitors:

1. Never walk past a toilet

The Paris Toilet Paradox: they’re everywhere when you don’t need them, nowhere when you do. And unless you enjoy riling the café owner whose facilities you’re attempting to use without buying so much as an espresso, grab the toilet opportunity when it presents itself.

2. Roads are dangerous – stay on guard

After a while you’ll feel like you’ve got the hang of Parisian roads, leaving timid tourists in your dust. Don’t. Just when you’re feeling invincible, a cyclist will materialize from thin air traveling at roughly the speed of sound, missing you by a breath. Stay humble. Stay vigilant. Stay alive!

3. Buses – take the scenic route

If time is no object, hop on a bus. Yes, they run on “French time” and often pack you in like sardines, but it beats the Métro for people-watching and actually seeing the city above ground.

4. Attempt French, even badly

You don’t need fluency—just manners. A “bonjour,” “merci,” or “s’il vous plaît” costs you nothing and buys you surprising goodwill. Most Parisians will reply in English anyway, regardless of how well you speak French. Pro tip: pretend you don’t understand their English if you want to force them to speak to you in French!

5. The Bonjour RATP app is your new best friend

Slightly fiddly to set up, but honestly worth it. Contactless payments, route planning, real-time updates—it’s basically Paris travel magic in your pocket.

6. Fast food = tourist central

Spot a McDonald’s? Congratulations, you’ve found where tourists congregate. Nothing wrong with that in principle, but to experience real Paris, move venture away from these areas for something more authentic. Which brings us onto…

7. Use Google Maps to find the interesting areas

Google Maps highlights “busy areas” which is often code for “interesting things are happening here.” You’ll often find busy bars and packed restaurants – lots of Parisian life happening right in front of you

8. Parisians aren’t rude, just efficient (actually they’re both sometimes)

That famed grumpiness? Mostly reserved for people who block escalators (stand right!), wander into bike lanes, or swagger across roads (see above). Stay out of the way and you’ll be fine.

9. Count your change

Paying cash? Double-check what you’re handed back. I wish I knew why this still happens, but it does, and it’s maddening.

10. The great dog poo mystery

Parisians adore dogs. Picking up after them? Not so much. It’s as if the poo is invisible—certainly the owners seem unable to see it. Keep your eyes on the pavement and you’ll keep your shoes pristine.