Experience Paris like a local
Staying in an apartment rather than a hotel is already a step towards living like a Parisian. Here are the small habits that make the difference, tried and tested by our team.
· Paris Suite
1. Start the day at the bakery
Ask for a « tradition »: the traditional French baguette, made without additives, is the one Parisians buy. Every neighbourhood has its award-winning bakeries; we share ours in our neighbourhood guides.
2. Shop at the market
Food markets usually open two or three mornings a week. With a fully equipped kitchen in your apartment, it is the best way to enjoy cheese, seasonal fruit and roast chicken at home. Bring a bag.
3. Say « Bonjour » when you walk in
In a shop, café or bakery, always greet people as you enter. A simple « Bonjour madame / monsieur » changes the welcome completely.
4. Walk, then walk some more
Paris is compact: from our residences, most major sights are less than 30 minutes on foot. In the evening, the banks of the Seine and the Canal Saint-Martin are the loveliest walks.
5. Take the metro without paper tickets
Tickets are now loaded onto a Navigo Easy card or directly onto your smartphone. The metro is fastest for long distances, the bus the nicest way to see the city.
6. Try Vélib'
Shared bikes are everywhere and bike lanes have multiplied. Perfect to ride from Notre-Dame to the Canal Saint-Martin in about twenty minutes.
7. Book your restaurants
Good places fill up quickly in the evening, especially at weekends. Book the day before, and dine the French way, rarely before 8pm.
8. Tipping is not compulsory
Service is included in prices. Leaving a few euros for friendly service is appreciated, but never expected as in some other countries.
9. Have your apéro outdoors
When the weather is fine, Parisians meet on café terraces or along the river. A baguette, some cheese, a bottle: the evening picnic is an institution.
10. Plan ahead for Sunday
Many shops close on Sunday afternoon, but Sunday-morning markets are among the liveliest. Do your shopping on Saturday.
11. Visit early, or late
Major monuments are calmer at opening time and in the evening. Book tickets online to skip the queues.
12. Stay longer
Paris reveals itself over several days: you find your café, your bakery, your market. Our apartments with kitchens are made for that, and our team is available 24/7 to help.
