Solo travel in Paris: How to Visit the City of Love Alone

I’m going to be honest, I am not a solo traveler. But Paris is one of the most romantic cities in the world and, I thought, who better to take with me than myself? So, recently, almost on a whim, I decided to travel solo to Paris.

Tell you what, I have had the best time exploring this city on my own. It was so freeing! I didn’t have to worry about what anyone else wanted to do or see. I could just wander where my heart lead me and take in all the sights and sounds of Paris at my own pace.

Below is everything you need to know about traveling solo in Paris. From things to do alone, to how to stay safe in Paris, I’ve tried to condense all my experience (and learning) into this article.

IS PARIS GOOD FOR SOLO TRAVEL?

Absolutely! I found Paris to be an incredibly solo-friendly city. There are plenty of things to do by yourself, and people are generally very helpful if you need directions or assistance.

Of course, there are certain precautions you should take when traveling alone in any city (which I will get into later), but overall I felt very comfortable visiting Paris solo.

Especially if this is your first time traveling alone, Paris is a great choice as it can help you get out of your comfort zone, but also provide the safety and support you need.

Being a large and incredibly touristy city, people mostly speak English and communication isn’t a barrier.

Besides, there is no shortage of things to do for solo travelers in Paris. Museums, parks, monuments, churches, and more – you could easily spend weeks here and never tire of exploring.

IS PARIS SAFE FOR FEMALE SOLO TRAVELERS?

For the most part, yes. I never felt unsafe walking around Paris by myself during the daytime.

Of course, as with any large city, some areas of Paris are best avoided at night, particularly if you are a female solo traveler. These include the red light district near Place Pigalle, Porte de Montreuil, Porte de la Chapelle, Porte de la Villette, Porte de Clignancourt, and the area around Gare du Nord. If you need to go to either of these areas, it’s best to do so during the daytime, or take a taxi or Uber rather than walk.

Aside from these small areas, Paris is generally a very safe city for female travelers. There are plenty of women in Paris who travel solo, so you will not be alone in your journey.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE VISITING PARIS SOLO

As you plan your visit, it helps to have all the information handy. Here are some things to know before you head out on your Paris solo travel trip:

Free WiFi is hard to find

This was a big surprise to me, as I assumed Paris would have free wifi in all public spaces like most major cities. Unfortunately, that is not the case.

While some cafes and bars offer free wifi access, and the city has started setting up wifi zones in public areas, it’s still far from done. So rather than relying on wifi, I recommend getting a SIM card. You can pick one up from any store, or order one online from companies like O2, T-mobile, and Lebara.

Particularly when traveling alone, the last thing you want to struggle with is not being connected to the internet.

Beware of pickpockets

Paris, like many big cities, has its share of pickpockets. For the millions of tourists it attracts every year, the number of petty crimes, especially pickpocketing doesn’t surprise.

The most common areas for pickpocketing are around tourist attractions, on the metro, and near Gare du Nord. There are also incidents of people flicking stuff out of your bag in cafes. So keep your valuables close to you at all times.

Parisians are NOT rude

Like most people, I visited Paris with the impression that Parisians are rude. As soon as I got there, I was waiting for rudeness. I was on edge. I just knew it would happen.

Paris proved me wrong in the most delightful way.

A few random acts of kindness from strangers:

• The bus from the airport to the city center (ticket: 13 euros) didn’t accept cash and my card wasn’t working. The driver let me board anyway, and when we reached the downtown area, he let me get off without paying. I insisted on paying cash, but he didn’t take it (he could’ve pocketed the money but he didn’t).
• I stepped into a boutique to ask if there was an atm nearby. Not only did the owner give me directions, but she also walked me down to the end of the street and brought me to the atm.
• On another occasion, I wanted to catch a bus and didn’t have a ticket. A woman waiting at the stop offered me a spare ticket she had. I didn’t end up taking it though as I managed to pay on the bus.

Like I said, most people in Paris speak English. However, it sure helps to have some basic French phrases up your sleeve as it’s easy to break the ice that way.

Parisians aren’t rude. They’re nice – well, mostly. You might encounter some bad apples here and there, but it’s even more important to keep an open mind when visiting Paris solo.

I would just approach everyone I met with a “Bonjour, vous parlez anglais?”, a smile, and with no expectation of having a red carpet rolled out for me.

And, more often than not, my expectations were exceeded.

Get the City Card for unlimited museum access

Paris is full of interesting, insightful, and fun museums that you can spend hours exploring, one at a time. Entry to most museums is also fairly expensive and can put a dent in your wallet.

I really recommend getting the Paris City Card which allows free skip-the-line access to 60+ museums in and around Paris (yes, including the Louvre!).

This way, you can enjoy free visits to the diverse Parisian museums and exhibitions – museum hopping is an excellent thing to do in Paris alone.

The City Card is available for 2, 4, or 6 day periods here.

THINGS TO DO ALONE IN PARIS

1. Do a Walking Tour

Walking tours are a great way to explore a new city, and you can do them solo without feeling awkward or out of place. Below are some cool guided walking tours to help you learn about the city and see Paris from a unique angle:

Paris: Notre Dame Outdoor Walking Tour with Crypt Entry

Père Lachaise Cemetery: Walking Tour

Montmartre: Walking Tour

You could also consider doing a free walking tour to get a quick but comprehensive look at the city before exploring it further on your own.

2. Visit the Eiffel Tower

No trip to Paris is complete without visiting the Eiffel Tower – both by day and by night.

Built in 1889 to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the French Revolution, the Eiffel Tower is now one of the most iconic landmarks in Europe and the world.

Heralded as a symbol of love, the tower has been attracting couples from across the globe for decades. That’s what makes it such a sweet surprise when you visit solo.

Witnessing the Eiffel Tower standing upright in all its might, watching people propose to each other, and feeling the love in the air is an experience I’ll cherish for years to come.

Climbing to the top is, of course, the best way to experience the Eiffel Tower. Also don’t miss the tower light up at night – it dramatically transforms the cityscape.

3. Do a Picnic

One of my favorite things to do in Paris alone was to take myself to a picnic. I would pack a full bag with bread, wine, fruit, some croissants, and cheese – you know, the whole shebang – and head to one of the many places in Paris to spend a sunny Sunday afternoon.

The city has a plentitude of green spaces to sunbathe in. From sprawling in public gardens to parking yourself at one of the bridges along the Seine, there is no dearth of spots to enjoy a picnic at.

My favorite idea for a picnic in Paris is to head to Champ de Mars early evening, park myself on the grass and enjoy a breathtaking view of the Eiffel Tower as it lights up at night. Nothing beats that!

You can also go to Saint-Martin Canal, which lies along the Seine and has a more relaxed and less touristy atmosphere.

Just as much, The Pont des Arts offers a breathtaking backdrop as you savor your baguette and brie.

No matter what spot you choose though, make sure you pack a picnic à la française in your itinerary – it’s definitely one of the best things to do solo in Paris.

4. Sign up for a Bike Tour

Paris is a great city to explore by bike.

And if you’re traveling solo, what better way to see the sights, get oriented, and meet fellow travelers, than to join a bike tour?

There are plenty of companies that offer tours, and they’re generally very affordable. You can choose from different routes – whether you want to cover the city highlights or explore Paris off the beaten path. You can also take a guided bike tour at night and catch Paris in all its radiant, illuminated splendor. ✨

5. Pick up a Book from Shakespeare & Co.

Paris’s most famous bookstore, Shakespeare & Co., is a must-visit for any book lover.

Huddled in the center of the Latin Quarter, this iconic English-language bookstore has been around since 1951. It’s a popular spot for tourists, and was even made famous by Ernest Hemingway who was a regular visitor to the store.

With many floors and nooks to explore, it’s easy to pass an entire afternoon getting lost in the stacks.

If you’re traveling solo, make sure to pick up a book from here and curl up in one of the many cozy cafes nearby – the perfect recipe to spend hours in Paris alone.

And why not choose one of Hemingway’s works while you’re at it? A Moveable Feast is a delightful read and one of the most famous books set in France. It’ll be like walking in the footsteps of giants.

6. Do a river cruise

Paris is built on the banks of the River Seine, and taking a cruise through the river offers a unique vantage point to the magical city.

There are different kinds of river cruises available, and you can pick one depending on your budget and time. While most of the popular ones are during the day, I recommend opting for a nighttime cruise for a different experience.

As you glide through the river, take in the stunning views of Paris – from the illuminated Eiffel Tower to the bridges, and Notre Dame Cathedral. It’s a picture you won’t forget anytime soon.

7. Visit Notre Dame

We all know about the unfortunate fire that ravaged Notre Dame in 2019. The iconic building is still undergoing construction, and the cathedral is set to reopen in 2024. But even though it’s not in its original glory, the cathedral is still a must-visit for anyone visiting Paris.

Solo travelers in Paris can explore the cathedral at their own pace, and marvel at the French Gothic architecture up close. There’s something about the grandeur of the building that is simply breathtaking.

And if you’re looking for a little bit of history, there’s plenty to be found here too. The cathedral is over 600 years old, and has been witness to some of the most important moments in French history.

8. Visit Le Marais

Nestled in the heart of Paris, Le Marais is one of the city’s most historic and charming districts. Formerly the Jewish quarter of Paris, it has since been transformed into a trendy neighborhood with cobbled streets, quaint cafes, and boutique shops.

When exploring Le Marais, make sure to visit Place des Vosges – the oldest square in Paris. With its beautiful red-brick buildings and manicured gardens, it’s easy to spend a late morning people watching here.

There are also a bunch of museums and art galleries in the area, like Musée Carnavalet, Picasso Museum, and The House of European Photography.

If you’re looking for some alone time, Le Marais is the perfect place to wander around aimlessly and allow yourself to get lost.

9. Watch Tango by the Seine

Something typical about Paris is how much people like to dance. It isn’t called the most romantic city in the world for no reason – the residents here know how to infuse the magic of romance into the air.

Watching people breaking a leg isn’t a rare sight in Paris. I was lucky to catch three such ‘street dance parties’ during my visit, with the most memorable being the one by the Seine.

As the sun set, I sat on the edge of the river and watched as couples whirled and twirled to the tunes of Tango. The atmosphere was electric, and I couldn’t help tapping my feet to the rhythm of the music.

While there are many spots to watch people Tango, you can head to the mini amphitheater in Jardin Tino-Rossi along the Seine in the 5th arrondissement, sometime around sunset. Dance enthusiasts will soon start gathering, followed by gorgeous, seductive tango until twilight.

Witnessing this unique expression of love is something even more special when you experience it as a solo traveler in Paris.

P.S. You might also just get asked by a suave young man for a dance!

10. Go to the Opera Garnier

Visiting an Opera House is an experience in itself, and if you’re a fan of the arts, then you’ll want to check out Opera Garnier.

Also called Palais Garnier, The grandiose building is one of the most beautiful opera houses in the world. It served as the setting for the epic novel The Phantom of the Opera.

Built in the Neo-Baroque style, the interior of the opera house is just as stunning as its exterior. From the grand staircase to the chandeliers, every detail here is truly a work of art.

In addition to catching a performance, you can admire the lavish interiors, and get a front-row seat to a monumental facet of French and Parisian culture.

11. Take the Time to Reflect at Père Lachaise Cemetery

Touring a cemetery may not exactly seem like a stellar idea for your solo trip to Paris, but hear me out.

Père Lachaise Cemetery is one of the most beautiful cemeteries I’ve ever been to. It’s the final resting place of some of the most famous names in French history, including Chopin, Balzac, Proust, and Jim Morrison.

Wandering through the cemetery, you’ll be struck by the beautiful monuments and mausoleums. The cemetery is huge, in fact it’s the largest cemetery in Paris.

And there’s more… Père Lachaise draws over 3.5 million visitors every year.

So head up there, spend some time, say a prayer, and appreciate the transient nature of life.

12. Explore St. Germain

St. Germain is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Paris, and for good reason. The area is centrally located and very close to some of the city’s most iconic landmarks, including the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, and Notre Dame.

But that’s not all.

For the better part of the 19th and 20th centuries, St. Germain was the epicenter of Paris’s intellectual and cultural prosperity.

Many artists, writers, poets, and existentialists gathered in cafes like Les Deux Magots and Café de Flore to discuss politics, art, and philosophy.

Nowadays, the area still has a very bohemian and arty vibe, which makes it the perfect place to explore by yourself, if you’re looking for something a little different.

Sure, there are must-sees in the vicinity, but St. Germain also has many bars, restaurants, and cafes immortalized by Paris’s intellectual elite. It also has many museums, art galleries, quaint boutiques, old churches, and imposing buildings that carry centuries worth of history.

13. Walk along the Seine

Part of what makes Paris so magical is the Seine flowing through the length of the city.

There’s something about the river that makes Paris seem even more romantic, and it’s perfect to take a leisurely stroll along, especially if you’re traveling solo.

I woke up early one morning during my visit to Paris, and walked along the Seine starting from Notre Dame and all the way up to the Eiffel Tower.

Along the way, I got to see some of Paris’s most famous landmarks from an unparalleled perspective.

Stopping at the Pont des Arts, I read through promises etched on love locks from all over the world. I watched bouquinistes opening up shop, people jogging along the quays, and boats lazily leaving the docks.

Ambling along the river, I could catch the pulse of Paris, I could feel the city’s heartbeat. Even though I was alone in Paris, I felt like I had always belonged there.

So take the time to walk along the Seine, and maybe you’ll find your own beautiful sense of belonging in Paris. 😊

14. Discover Hidden Passages

Paris is a city of hidden surprises, and one of my favorite things to do is explore the many hidden passageways, or “passages”, that are scattered throughout the city.

These passages were built in the 19th century as covered walkways. Essentially they served to protect the Parisian bourgeoisie from mud, rain, and bad weather, as they poured out cash at the many boutiques, stores, bistros and theaters.

Adorned with beautiful mosaics, stained glass, and wrought iron railings, the passages were an important addition to Paris’s architecture.

Unfortunately, only a handful of these passages have survived over the years. But those that remain have been restored and are open to the public.

My favorite ones include Galerie Vivienne, Passage des Panoramas, and Passage Verdeau.

In fact, a fun thing to do alone in Paris is to go on a treasure hunt and try to find as many of these hidden gems as you can.

Make a day of it, as you explore the passageways of Paris, sauntering in and out of arrondissements, and perhaps stopping at an odd cafe to rest your feet and drink in the city.

15. Experience Centuries-Old Grandeur in Galeries Lafayette

Galeries Lafayette is an institution in itself. The iconic French department store chain has its flagship store at the Boulevard Haussmann in the 9th arrondissement. It’s a great solo travel in Paris choice of things to do.

With its beautiful Art Nouveau architecture, stunning stained glass dome, and luxurious designer labels, Galeries Lafayette is a feast for the senses.

But it’s not just a place to shop. Galeries Lafayette also has a gourmet food court spanning several floors, where you can sample French and international delicacies. There is also a rooftop terrace with incredible views of Paris.

On my visit, I took a macaron-making class at the Galeries Lafayette, and it was an unforgettable (and FYI, pretty messy but delicious) experience.

16. Witness the Catacombs of Paris

The Catacombs of Paris is one of the city’s most unusual and macabre attractions. It is a network of underground tunnels and caves that hold the remains of over six million Parisians.

The Catacombs are located 20 meters below street level, and span a length of around 300 kilometers.

They were originally used as limestone quarries, but became the city’s unofficial burial ground in the 18th century.

The Catacombs are open to the public, and you can take a guided tour through the tunnels. It’s a great way to learn about the history of Paris, and get a glimpse into the city’s morbid past.

17. Drink With a View of the Eiffel Tower

There’s no better way to end a solo travel day in Paris than with a drink in hand, and a view of the Eiffel Tower. The Parisian beacon of tourism and love is even more beautiful when seen at night, all lit up against the dark sky.

There are many bars and restaurants with a view of the Eiffel but my favorite is Ilvolo Bar Rooftop. Not only will you get a brilliant view of the tower, they also have kickass cocktails by legendary mixologist Matthias Giroud who whips up innovative concoctions inspired by his travels from around the world.

If you’re on a budget and want the experience without going home with a big hole in your wallet, you can always pick up a bottle of wine from a supermarket and go to the Champ de Mars, the park located opposite from the Eiffel Tower. I loved doing this just as much.

18. Grab a Coffee in Montmartre

Montmartre is a historic district located on a hill in the 18th arrondissement of Paris. It’s known for its picturesque streets, charming cafes, and bohemian atmosphere.

With cafes lining cobblestone streets, and artists selling their wares on every corner, it’s the perfect place to enjoy a leisurely cup of coffee. As a solo traveler in Paris, you can spend a whole day wandering through Montmarte’s alleyways and adjusting to the pace of this relaxed district.

Then, head up to the Sacré Coeur for panoramic views of Paris. Perched on a hill, it’s a bit of a walk up to the basilica but it’s so worth it.

The finest example of Roman-Byzantine architecture in Paris, the Sacré Coeur is one of the most beautiful churches I’ve ever come across. The unique steeples place so well against the stunning white facade…

Words can’t describe what a beautiful monument Sacré Coeur is!

And as you descend from the steps of the church, you can see all of Paris stretched out before you.

19. Head to a Jazz Club One Evening

Jazz was born in New Orleans but it quickly made its way to Paris in the early 20th century. The city’s vibrant jazz scene flourished in the 1920s, shortly after the first World War. And there are still many clubs In Paris where you can enjoy live music today.

My favorite is the Duc des Lombards, located within walking distance from Pont Neuf. One of the longest-running Jazz clubs in Paris, it has a snug, intimate setting with a great lineup of jazz musicians.

Experiencing Jazz in Paris is a must, even if you’re not usually a fan of the genre. There’s something about live music in this city that makes it that much more magical (I realize I may have done that word to death 😂).

20. Take a Walk in the Tuileries Gardens

The Tuileries Gardens is a public park located between the Louvre Museum and Place de la Concorde in the 1st arrondissement of Paris. One of the oldest public parks in Paris, it’s a beautiful oasis in the heart of the city, adorned with sculptures, fountains and ponds. The perfect place to take a stroll on a sunny day.

The Tuileries Gardens is also home to the Orangerie Museum, which houses an impressive collection of impressionist and post-impressionist paintings. If you’re a fan of Monet’s work, you’ll certainly want to check it out.

A hot solo travel tip is to go to the Tuileries Gardens early in the morning, before it gets too crowded with tourists. Get a coffee from one of the nearby cafes and enjoy a quiet moment in the gardens. It’s an excellent way to start your day in Paris.

21. See Parisian luxury in Champs-Élysées

The Champs-Élysées is one of the most famous streets in Paris, and perhaps even the world. It’s a beautiful tree-lined avenue that stretches for over 2 kilometers, from the Place de la Concorde to the Arc de Triomphe.

Think of strolling through the Champs-Élysées as a crash course in Parisian living. You’ll find luxury brands, high-end restaurants, and cafes. You’ll also find some major style inspiration (the Parisians definitely know how to dress).

Champs-Élysées is the perfect place to window-shop, people-watch, and get a taste of the city’s opulence. It also has some of Paris’s best theaters and exhibition venues. You can see people gathering outside the Théâtre du Rond-Point and the Théâtre Marigny, looking like a million bucks – the setting looks like it’s straight out of a 20th century movie.

On Bastille Day, the Champs-Élysées is transformed into one giant party. The French National Day is celebrated with a big pomp and show. The Champs-Élysées also marks the finish line for the Tour de France.

With such history, economical and cultural significance, the Champs-Élysées is a must-visit when you’re in Paris, solo or otherwise.

22. Catch a Show in Le Louxor

Take a step back in time at Le Louxor, an Art Deco, Egyptian style cinema located in Barbès in the 10th arrondissement. The cinema was built in 1921 but was closed to the public in 1983. After years of being under restoration, it reopened its doors to the public in 2013.

Le Louxor is absolutely gorgeous. The interior is decorated with hieroglyphics, pharaonic statues, and an ornate ceiling. There are stained glass windows and also an outdoor terrace.

A strange, incredible vintage vibe envelopes this iconic pre-war cinema, making it one of the coolest places to catch a movie in Paris as a solo traveler.

The cinema screens a mix of new releases and classic films. They also host regular themed events, such as silent movie screenings.

23. Check out the Bouquinistes – Libraries on the Seine

Flanking both sides of the Seine, some 226 green kiosks called bouquinistes are stationed along the river’s length. These are essentially open-air libraries, where you can buy used books, magazines, prints, and other collectibles.

The bouquinistes have been around since the 16th century, making them one of Paris’s most authentic treasures.

Wandering along the river and browsing through the stalls is one of my favorite things to do in Paris. From antiquarian books to vintage prints, you’ll never know what you’ll find.

If you’re alone in Paris, and if you’re a bibliophile like me, it’s easy to spend a whole afternoon (or day) here. Books, people, the sound of the Seine and that extraordinary Parisian charm… What’s not to like?

The Bouquinistes were declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1991.

24. Climb the Montparnasse Tower

Often called the ugliest building in Paris, the Montparnasse Tower is a 60-story skyscraper located in the 14th arrondissement. At 210 meters in height, it’s the tallest building in Paris.

Montparnasse is criticized for its architecture, but I think it’s kind of cool (in a retro-futuristic way). The black glass and metal exterior is a stark contrast to the traditional, Haussmannian architecture of Paris.

Why should you visit the Montparnasse Tower, then? Because of the views, my friend. The views.

The tower has an outdoor observation deck that offers some of the most incredible views of Paris. (Apparently because that’s the only place where you can’t see the tower from 😝) On a clear day, you can see for miles and miles. You can see all the major landmarks in Paris – the Eiffel Tower, the Sacré-Cœur Basilica, Notre Dame Cathedral.

On the 56th floor, there’s also the Ciel de Paris, a flamboyant bar and restaurant known for its elegant French gastronomy. It has expansive floor-to-ceiling windows, so even if the weather is not cooperating, you can still enjoy sweeping views of Paris with a cocktail in hand.

In fact I’d go on to say that you can skip climbing the Eiffel Tower, and go up the Montparnasse Tower instead (if you’re pressed for time or money). It’s much less crowded, in my opinion, and the views are easily twice as good.

25. Spend an Evening in the Latin Quarter

Think beautiful facades and gaping boulevards, historic buildings and quaint alleys.

The Latin Quarter is one of the most picturesque neighborhoods in Paris, and it’s perfect for an evening of ‘flaneuring’ (look up that word – you’ll be doing a lot of it in your Paris solo trip!)

The Latin Quarter is located on the Left Bank of the Seine, and it’s where you’ll find the Sorbonne University and the Pantheon. It’s a lively, youthful neighborhood with a lot of character.

There are plenty of bars and cafes here, and the streets are lined with bookshops and art galleries. I could spend hours just walking around, taking in the architecture and soaking up the atmosphere.

The iconic bookstore, Shakespeare and Co., is also located here. There is also the Saint-Michel Fountain, the Grand Mosque of Paris, and Luxembourg Gardens nearby – all worth a visit.

If you want to experience the true Parisian ‘je ne sais quoi’, the Latin Quarter is the place to be.

26. Visit the Grand Mosque of Paris

Sitting in the heart of the Latin Quarter is the Grand Mosque of Paris, one of the largest mosques in France. It was built in 1926 for the large Muslim community in Paris, and it’s a stunning example of Moorish architecture.

The Grand Mosque covers an area of 7500 square meters, and it can accommodate up to 1000 worshippers at a time. It has a beautiful courtyard with an ablution fountain, and the prayer hall is decorated with intricate zellige patterns and floral motifs.

When I visited, the mosque reminded me of the Bahia Palace in Morocco. The architecture is indeed inspired by the palaces and mosques of Islamic Africa.

Non-Muslim visitors are welcome to enter the mosque, but basic dressing etiquette (no shorts or sleeveless shirts) applies.

If you’re interested in learning more about the Muslim community in Paris, the Grand Mosque is a great place to start. Guided tours are available, and you can also visit the attached Islamic bookshop and library.

Lastly, you can enjoy Tagine and Couscous at the annexed restaurant, or take a hammam spa at the Grand Mosque.

27. Catch a Cabaret Show in Paris

You can’t go to Paris and not see Cabaret. The entertainment form is emblematic of Paris’s Joie de Vivre spirit, and it’s a must-watch when you’re in the city.

There are many cabaret shows in Paris, the most famous one being Moulin Rouge. Over it’s 120 years of existence, the show has been attended by everyone from royalty to celebrities, and it’s still as popular as ever.

If you’re looking for something a bit less touristy, check out the Artishow Cabaret in the 11th arrondissement. It’s a tad less busy, and you can catch a fabulous drag show here!

Either way, don’t miss a Cabaret show when in the city – it’s the perfect way to spend a night alone in Paris. The shows are a mix of singing, dancing, acrobatics, and the famous French cancan.

It’s RACY, I’m telling you!

28. Do a Day Trip to Versailles

Located just a short train ride away from Paris is the beautiful Palace of Versailles. The former royal residence for King Louis XIII was built in the 17th century, and it’s one of the most opulent palaces in the world.

A visit to Versailles is a must, whether you’re traveling solo or with company. The palace is immense, and it’s surrounded by beautifully manicured gardens. And it’s one of Europe’s most famous landmarks.

There’s so much to see and do here, from exploring the royal chambers to walking through the stunning Hall of Mirrors. I would recommend spending at least a full day here, so you have enough time to appreciate everything.

If you’re interested in learning more about the history of the palace, there are guided tours available. You can also book a day trip to Versailles from Paris, so you don’t have you bother about figuring out transportation.

You can also visit the nearby Grand Trianon and Petit Trianon, two smaller royal residences on the grounds of Versailles.

29. Hang out in the Luxembourg Gardens

Lounging in the Luxembourg Gardens is just the kind of thing you want to do after getting lunch at a Parisian bistro.

Located just off the St. Germain district, the gardens are huge (23 hectares) and very popular with locals and tourists alike. Inspired by the Boboli Gardens in Florence, these gardens are the perfect place to take a break from sightseeing.

There’s plenty to do here, from exploring the different gardens (the Medici Fountain is a must-see) to playing chess or petanque. You can also take rides, visit playgrounds, chill at open-air cafes, visit a museum, or just relax in the green lawns.

The gardens consist of beautifully manicured lawns, flower beds, trees, and sculptures. Around the Grand Bassin pond, you’ll find kids sailing toy boats and artists drawing caricatures. The setting is so easy on the eyes.

Luxembourg Gardens are a great place to spend a few hours alone in Paris, away from the hubbub of the city.

30. Get a Picture at the Pont Alexandre III Bridge

Widely regarded as the prettiest and most ornate bridge in Paris, the Pont Alexandre III connects the Champs-Élysées district with the Invalides and Eiffel Tower.

The bridge is adorned with gilded statues and lamps, and it has spectacular views of the Eiffel Tower.

Built in 1900 for the World Fair, the Pont Alexandre III is is a key monument symbolizing Paris’s architectural patrimony. The Art Nouveau lamps, the bronze cherubs, and the gilded horses on both ends of the bridge are a sight to behold.

Chances are you’ll be crossing the bridge anyway during the course of your visit, given its central location. However, I urge you to make a trek through it during twilight or later, when it lights up. The bright lamps spanning the length of the bridge cast a brilliant glow on the Seine water.

The Pont Alexandre III is one of those places that’s just begging to be photographed. And even better when you’re in it! 😉

FUN TOURS AND WORKSHOPS TO TAKE SOLO IN PARIS

Traveling to Paris solo? Check out these fun workshops. Not only will you get a chance to try something new, you’ll also meet with fellow travelers from all over the world.

• Baking tour at a local French bakery
• Wine tasting Class with a French Sommelier
• Perfume making workshop
• Macaron making class

FINAL THOUGHTS ON SOLO TRAVEL IN PARIS

Paris is a city of romance, but it’s also a city where you can feel free to be yourself.

What makes Paris such a great destination for solo travel is that you’re never really alone.

Navigating as a solo female traveler here can be really empowering – especially because there are so many women out there doing exactly that. Then, there is no paucity of things to do alone in Paris… you’ll always find something to keep you busy, engaged, and enchanted.

I had an incredible time exploring the City of Light solo, without any reservations or inhibitions. From lounging by the Seine River at sunset to dancing in the streets with strangers, my trip was everything that I expected and more!