Paris is a city that has enchanted dreamers, writers, artists and filmmakers for centuries—did you know that the first public screening of a film happened in Paris in 1895 by the Lumière brothers? One of the small tidbits of information I learned while in my university film classes. Speaking of movies, spending an entire month in the City of Light felt like stepping into an old movie, with winding cobblestone streets, sidewalk cafes on every corner, and glorious Haussmannian architecture.

Living in Paris for a month gave me the opportunity to not just visit the city, but truly experience it. Here’s a glimpse of what my month in the infamous city looked like—complete with recommendations, tips, and insights to help you make the most of your own Parisian adventure.

Table of Contents

• Why Paris?
• The Logistics: How I Made It Happen
• Safety Tips for Living in Paris
• Things I Would Recommend: My Paris Highlights
• Things I Would Not Recommend: What to Skip in Paris
• A Day to Remember in Paris
• Would I Go Back to Paris?

Why Paris?

Paris is more than just a postcard-perfect city—although it is very photogenic. The city has long been a hub for intellectual and artistic movements, from the Enlightenment thinkers who shaped modern philosophy to the artists of the 20th century who revolutionized the art world. The rich history of creative expression in Paris is what gives the city its unique energy, making it a place where the past and present coexist in an inspiring way. I knew that I had a lot to learn from the city and was excited to visit as many museums, historic landmarks, and other cultural sites as I could fit into my trip.

I was also drawn to Paris for its renowned café culture and incredible food. The idea of spending mornings at quaint cafés, sipping coffee while soaking in the city’s atmosphere, felt like the perfect way to slow down and embrace a different pace of life. The promise of fresh croissants, baguettes, and some of the best cheeses and wines in the world made the culinary experience impossible to resist—have I ever mentioned that I have a culinary degree? Paris’s focus on enjoying the simple pleasures of life was a major part of its allure for me.

The Logistics: How I Made It Happen

Where I Stayed

I rented a cozy Airbnb near Montmartre, a neighbourhood known for its artistic history and charming streets. It was a lovely spot, and I particularly loved being just a 15-minute walk (albeit uphill—hello, leg workout!) from Sacré-Cœur. The proximity to the basilica meant I could enjoy stunning views of the city whenever I wanted, and the neighbourhood’s vibrant cafés, crêperies, and shops gave it a distinctly local feel.

Getting Around

Paris has an excellent public transport system, and the Navigo Pass was my best friend. It gave me unlimited access to the métro, buses, and even the RER trains, which are perfect for exploring both the city and nearby areas like Versailles. The métro is incredibly efficient, with 16 colour-coded lines that can take you almost anywhere in Paris. Buses are a great way to see the city above ground, and the RER trains are ideal for longer trips or reaching destinations outside the city center. Whether it was a quick ride to the Latin Quarter or a day trip to Disneyland Paris, the Navigo Pass made getting around simple and stress-free.

However, my favourite way to explore Paris was on foot—there’s something special about wandering without a plan and stumbling through the different districts (arrondissements) in the city.

Budgeting

Living in Paris for a month meant sticking to a budget, but it wasn’t as daunting as I’d expected. Shopping at local markets like Marché Bastille, cooking meals at home, and finding affordable local spots helped me stretch my euros without sacrificing the Parisian experience. To give you some ideas, here’s an article by Time Out on 18 of the best cheap eats in Paris.

If you’re on a tight budget, I also recommend reading the book How to Travel the World on $50 a Day: Travel Cheaper, Longer, Smarter by fellow travel blogger Matt Kepnes (aka Nomadic Matt). It was honestly a lifesaver and really helped me budget for my three-month-long trip to Europe.

Safety Tips for Living in Paris

Paris is generally a safe city, but like any major destination, it’s important to stay aware of your surroundings.

Here are some tips to keep your experience stress-free:

• Beware of Scams: Tourist hotspots like Montmartre, the Eiffel Tower, and the Champs-Élysées attract scammers. Common ones include friendship bracelet sellers who try to tie a bracelet on your wrist and then demand money or petition signers who distract you while their accomplices pick your pockets. Politely decline and keep walking.
• Pickpocketing: This is one of the most common crimes in Paris. Keep your valuables close—crossbody bags with zippers are a great option. Avoid carrying your phone in your back pocket or leaving it on café tables. According to Quotezone’s research, Paris sees approximately 251 thefts per million visitors each year.
• Late-Night Precautions: While most neighbourhoods are safe to walk through, some areas around train stations (like Gare du Nord) can feel sketchy after dark. Stick to well-lit, busy streets, or consider taking an Uber or taxi if you’re travelling late at night.
• Set Clear Boundaries with Unwanted Attention
  Women may encounter unwanted attention from men, especially in touristy areas, bars, or late at night— this is something that I know from personal experience. Unfortunately, some individuals may not respect boundaries and could try to chat you up, follow you, or even invade your personal space. If this happens:
  • Be firm and direct in saying no or ignoring them entirely.
  • Avoid engaging further, as it can sometimes escalate the situation.
  • If someone is persistent or makes you feel unsafe, move toward a crowded area, seek help from others nearby, or step into a café or shop.
  • Carry personal safety items like a whistle, or even a personal alarm if that helps you feel more secure.

*Read more helpful travel safety tips here.

Things I Would Recommend: My Paris Highlights

During my month in Paris, I discovered some unforgettable experiences that made my stay truly special. Here are my personal favourites:

1. Explore Montmartre and Sacré-Cœur
   Wandering through the cobblestone streets of Montmartre felt like stepping into a Renoir painting. The district’s artistic charm is palpable, with local artists displaying their work at Place du Tertre. The climb to Sacré-Cœur is well worth it for the breathtaking views of the city.
2. Picnic at the Champ de Mars
   Few things compare to enjoying a picnic with the Eiffel Tower as your backdrop. Grab a fresh baguette, some cheese, charcuterie, and a bottle of wine (or sparkling water if you prefer!) from a local market, and soak in the iconic Parisian ambiance.
   • Note: All alcohol consumption is banned from 4 pm-7 am along the quays of the Canal St-Martin, Bassin de la Villette, and the Seine River. So, if you do discreetly bring out the wine, stick to a lunch picnic to be safe.
3. Evening Cruise on the Seine
   The Seine at night is pure magic. Taking an evening cruise offered a completely different perspective of the city, with its landmarks glowing under the night sky. The moment the Eiffel Tower sparkles is one you won’t forget!
4. Day Trip to the Palace of Versailles
   The grandeur of Versailles is unparalleled. Exploring the palace is fascinating, but don’t skip the sprawling gardens—they’re stunning, especially in the spring and summer. You can even rent a row boat and explore the garden’s grand canal for roughly 20€ per hour.
5. Rooftop Bars
   Paris has some fantastic rooftop spots for enjoying drinks with a view. Some of my favourites include:
   • Le Perchoir: Trendy vibes and an unbeatable view of the Paris skyline.
   • Terrass’’ Hotel Bar: Located in Montmartre, offering sweeping views of the Eiffel Tower.
   • Les Ombres: Overlooks the Eiffel Tower, perfect for a sunset drink.
6. Take a Crepe-Making Class
   Learning how to make authentic French crepes was a deliciously fun experience! The instructors were welcoming, and I left not only with a full stomach but also with a new skill to recreate at home.
7. Join an Art Class in Montmartre
   I had the opportunity to attend an art class led by a local artist, where I created a unique piece of art to take home as a special souvenir from my trip.
8. Dance on the Banks of the Seine
   One of the most joyful experiences I had was dancing along the Seine at Jardin Tino-Rossi. In the evenings, locals and visitors alike gather here for impromptu dance sessions ranging from salsa to tango to swing. It’s a lively, free-spirited way to feel part of the Parisian community.

Things I Would Not Recommend: What to Skip in Paris

While Paris is brimming with amazing experiences, there are a few things I’d suggest skipping—or at least reconsidering—based on my own time in the city:

1. Visiting the Louvre Only for the Mona Lisa
   The Louvre is a treasure trove of art, history, and culture, but many visitors make a beeline for the Mona Lisa, snap a quick photo, and leave. While it’s an iconic painting, the experience can feel underwhelming due to the crowds and the painting’s small size. Instead, take the time to explore the museum’s other wings—there’s so much more to see, from Greek sculptures like the Venus de Milo to stunning French paintings and the grandeur of the museum itself.
2. Pont des Arts (Love Lock Bridge)
   Once a romantic hotspot where couples affixed padlocks to symbolize their love, the locks have since been removed due to safety concerns back in 2015. While the bridge itself is still pretty, its magic has faded without the sea of colourful locks. Instead, take a romantic stroll along the Seine or visit a lesser-known spot like Square du Vert-Galant, a peaceful park at the tip of Île de la Cité.
3. Spending Too Much Money to Go to the Top of the Eiffel Tower
   While visiting the Eiffel Tower is a must, the hefty price and long wait to go to the top may not be worth it—especially since there are better, often free, viewpoints around the city. My top picks for panoramic views include:
   • Sacré-Cœur Cathedral in Montmartre (free to access and absolutely stunning view of the city).
   • The rooftop of Galeries Lafayette Haussmann (also free and offers an incredible view of the Eiffel Tower).
   • Parc de Belleville (a less crowded park with a unique perspective of the skyline).
4. Visiting Rue Crémieux
   While Rue Crémieux is known for its colourful houses, it can be underwhelming in person. The street, although quaint, has become a hotspot for influencers who flock there for the perfect Instagram photo, making it difficult to experience the charm of the place without being distracted by the crowds and photo shoots. If you’re after some authentic Parisian charm, there are plenty of other picturesque spots to explore, like the narrow streets of Le Marais or the cozy alleys near Canal Saint-Martin.

A Day to Remember in Paris

If I could bottle up one perfect day in Paris to inspire your trip, it would go something like this:

Morning:

Start your day like a true Parisian—head to your local boulangerie for a buttery, flaky croissant or pain au chocolat. Enjoy it at a corner café with a café crème, watching the city come to life.

Once you’re fueled up, make your way to Montmartre, stopping to admire the charming art studios and boutiques along the way. Don’t miss Place du Tertre, where artists are painting portraits in the square ranging from realistic to cartoon styles. Finally, climb up (yes, it’s worth it!) to Sacré-Cœur for panoramic views of the city that will leave you breathless in more ways than one.

Afternoon:

For lunch, head to L’Assiette, a bistro known for its classic French dishes, or head to Angelina‘s to grab a deliciously rich hot chocolate (they’re famous for this!) and a dessert. Another option is you can grab a local sandwich from a nearby cafe and take your meal to the Jardin des Tuileries, where you can relax by the fountains and enjoy your lunch.

Next, dive into Paris’s rich art scene at the Musée d’Orsay, housed in a stunning former railway station. Its collection of Impressionist masterpieces—Van Gogh, Monet, Renoir—will leave you speechless.

If museums aren’t your thing, opt for a leisurely walk along the Seine, exploring the riverside bookstalls. You can even stop to see the infamous Notre Dame Cathedral and the nearby flower markets on the Ile de la Cité (The market is between Notre Dame Cathedral and Sainte-Chapelle by Quai da la Corse, which runs along the Seine).

Evening:

As the day winds down, treat yourself to a riverside dinner. Book a table at Les Ombres, where the restaurant is wall-to-wall glass and offers an exceptional view of Paris and the Eiffel Tower. 

After dinner, take a sunset cruise on the Seine River. There’s nothing quite like Paris at night, with the city glowing under the moonlight. Additionally, every evening (just after sunset), the Eiffel Tower is adorned with golden lights as it sparkles for 5 minutes every hour on the hour.

If you’re up for a later night, you can also discover quite a few amazing local bars in the city. To help with your search, here are a few great options according to the Condé Nast Traveler.

Would I Go Back to Paris?

Absolutely. Paris is one of those cities that continuously calls you back. My month-long stay gave me the chance to explore the city in depth and experience its unique charm. Whether it was strolling through quiet neighbourhoods, savouring a freshly baked croissant in the morning, or watching the Eiffel Tower sparkle at night, Paris never lost its allure.

Despite a few challenges—like the hustle and bustle of crowds or moments of unwanted attention—Paris has a way of turning the ordinary into something extraordinary. From its world-class museums and magnificent architecture to its charming cafes and lively streets, the city constantly offers new experiences and unforgettable moments.

Next time, I’d love to spend even more time exploring some of the quieter areas and revisiting the places I grew fond of. For anyone thinking of visiting, I’d say: don’t hesitate. Paris will keep surprising you, and there’s always something new to discover.

So, yes—I’m already looking forward to my next trip!

Safe travel,

Carina

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