best paris travel app

9 Paris Apps You Need to Download Before Traveling

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Are you looking for the best Paris Apps to help you to navigate the French capital? That’s smart because using apps for Paris is your secret weapon to counter the language barrier, unfamiliar streets, and the maze of Metro lines.

And these are only a few examples on how downloading the best Paris Apps can lift your Paris experience to the next level.

But what are the best travel apps for Paris? Look no further because in this article, I have you covered. I am presenting you with a list of the 9 most useful and popular apps for Paris.

Salut, I am Lena – travel planning expert and parisienne since 2006 🩷

CHECKLIST for your Paris Trip

✔ Hotel booked?

• Budget: Hotel France Albion (8.6)
• Midrange: Hôtel des Arts (9.6)
• Upscale: Millésime Hôtel (9.2)
• Luxury: La Demeure Montaigne (9.1)
• My Favorite: Hôtel Monte Cristo

✔ Tickets booked?

• Eiffel Tower ( book here )
• Paris City Pass ( book here )
• Louvre ( book here )
• Arc de Triomphe ( book here )
• Hop On Hop Off Bus ( book here )

🎁🎁 Exclusive 5% off on Seine Cruises – BOOK HERE with our code SALUT5 🎁🎁

Paris Survival Tips

• Buy your SIM card in advance
• Get a Travel Adapter
• Book your airport transfer
• Download the free survival guide

Fun Activities

• Explore the Covered Arcades
• Discover the quaint Bookstores
• Find Paris Hidden Cocktail Bars
• Take an easy Day Trip by train

And these Paris apps are not only great according to me!

I asked my favorite Paris travel community ( It’s free, join here ) about the applications that they found most helpful during their time in Paris, and what can I say? They delivered.

Having a right combination of apps on your phone is your secret weapon for navigating the City of Light like a local.

Whether you’re a first-timer aiming to easily navigate Parisian or a seasoned traveler looking for local gems, these apps will certainly enhance your experience.

Tip: Stay online while traveling! Roaming fees can be a nasty surprise when using your smartphone abroad. And they often remain unnoticed until a hefty bill makes an unwelcome appearance after your trip.

The Solution? An eSIM ! Safeguard your wallet by planning ahead and buying the data package you need, for an ease of mind and no surprise bills. See all data plans here .(they are cheaper than you might think)

The 13 Best Travel Apps for Paris

So, without further ado, here is the shortlist of the 13 best Paris apps according to locals and travelers.

#1 Google Maps

Google Maps is your Swiss army knife for exploring Paris. It’s more than just a navigation app . In fact, it’s my go-to Paris app for all sorts of things that I use every day.

Whether I need to know the best Metro or Bus connection , search for a spot to have lunch or simply want to know if my favorite Cocktail bar is open. I can be sure Google Maps has the answer.

If you are not keen on Google, Maps from Apple works as good. It’s just a matter of preference, but know that one of the two will absolutely be enough to find your ways around Paris.

My Google Maps Tip: Create Lists

Create lists with locations you want to see or restaurants you would like to eat at . This way, you find them back on the map. You can even share this list with your travel partner, so everyone can add their favorite spots.

My husband and me, for example, have a shared list on Google Maps with restaurants we stumble upon and want to eat at. It’s very helpful and a great way to organize our favorite addresses and make sure not to lose them.

Viable Alternative: CityMapper

City Mapper is a great navigation app for Paris because it connects the usual map and navigation function with external services: Uber, Vélib, Bolt and many more.

Offline Alternative: Maps.me

If you would rather not depend on mobile data or get a eSim Card , maps.me is a great app for downloading apps and then use them offline later on.

Good Read: 5 ways to get from the Airport to Paris

One of the most popular apps for Paris regarding transportation is Uber. If you are not familiar with it, it’s the easiest way to get a taxi, just that it’s not a taxi, it’s an Uber.

You type in your destination and your location, and the app calculates the price of the trip and connects you with a driver.

It’s safe and uncomplicated, and also easy in terms of payment. The price that is calculated before ordering your ride is the price you pay. No surprises. And: You can simply pay through the app .

If you use Uber already in your hometown, no need to download it in Paris. It’s international.

Alternatively, you can use Bolt or G7.

Bolt is the big competitor of Uber in Paris, and it can be worth it to compare prices. Depending on the demand, the difference can be huge. They often give you a few discount codes upon signup.

G7 is the transport app in Paris for the official Taxis Parisien . The difference is, that the price is only calculated throughout the journey, not before.

Get €10 off your restaurant bill by signing up here

is a wonderful app in Paris to find and reserve a table in a restaurant . The app is in English, reservations are online, and you can choose among hundreds of eateries.

Regularly they have promotions if you book through the app, like 20% off the bill, or the 2nd dish free.

It’s certainly worth it. For an extra €10 off your bill, use my code .

#4 Bonjour RATP

Download for Android | Download for iOs

RATP is the company that runs the public transportation in Paris: Metro, Bus, RER and Tram . And while I think for navigation purposes this app is rather useless because Google Maps has you 100% covered, you still should get this app.

Also interesting: How to use the Metro in Paris – The complet guide

Because: You can use the Bonjour RATP App to buy and top up your Navigo Travel Card . No need to stress out over vending machines anymore. Simply pick the ticket option you like, select your payment method (credit card or other) and top up your card.

You can also use the Bonjour RATP app to read your Navigo Travel Pass to see how many tickets you have left.

➲ Read my guide here on how to rent a Vélib in Paris

If you intend to explore Paris by bike , then the Vélib app is absolutely necessary. It holds all your account information and access codes, but most importantly, it shows you how many bikes are available at the closest station. And: in which state they are.

Because through the Vélib app, you will be prompted to rate the bike you got, and it’s a very valuable indicator for the next person.

#6 Google Translate

If you don’t speak French, a translator app is of course a no-brainer. And Google Translate is doing the job just fine. Maybe you won’t win a literacy price with it, but it will provide you with a translation that gets the job done.

Google Translate Tip: use the Camera

Google Translate has a camera function. Instead of typing in the word you want to have translated, open the camera and let Google Translate let do the work for you.

#7 Google Lens

Google Lens is my favorite app when traveling abroad to a destination, where I don’t speak the language. Especially, when I can’t read the language.

Google Lens is the image search tool from Google . You can take a picture of a sight or painting, or anything really, click on Google sense, et voilà, all the info you want.

But, and here it’s getting interesting: you can combine Google Lens with the translator app, and this means that the written word will be translated for you.

Works perfectly with menus in restaurants , simply take a picture of the menu and click translate.

#8 Flash Invaders

Also read: Best Fun things to do in Paris with Teens

Flash Invaders is one of my favorite Paris Apps. Ok, it has very little to do with travel planning, but it is a fun app that I suggest you look into. Especially if you are traveling to Paris with kids or teenagers.

Like in a real time video game, you can hunt down space invaders all over Paris, get points, create a collection and compete with your friends.

But… what are Space Invaders?

Invader art in Paris refers to the work of an anonymous artist known as Invader , who places mosaic pieces inspired by the 1978 arcade game Space Invaders around the city.

These pieces are recognizable by their pixelated and fun designs, mimicking video game characters. Invader’s mosaics can be found on all sorts of buildings, bridges, and any kind of surface, really, across Paris.

Turning the city into an open-air gallery with almost 1500 installations scattered all over Paris.

The app is simple: When you see a Space Invader in Paris, open the app and flash the mosaic, hence, take a picture of it using the app.

Depending on the size of the mosaic, you get points and the app shows you when the piece was installed. Some date back to the early 90s.

It’s a fun app, and it encourages you to look around and discover more than you normally would.

#9 ICI Toilettes

Worried about where to find a public restroom in Paris? Then you need to get this app.

It shows you on an interactive map where to find the nearest toilette and even the best (and fastest!) way to get there. It covers public toilets that you find all over Paris, but also restrooms in parks or along the Seine.

Voilà, these were the 9 most useful apps for Paris that you should download before heading to Paris. If you know more, please share them with us in the comment section.

For the ease of mind and to avoid hidden fees, I recommend getting this eSim card from Airalgo for your mobile phone – it’s a simple solution to stay connected throughout your trip.

Parisienne since 2006 🩷

Expert in: Parisian Life &

French Culture, Travel

Planning, Crochet & Food and Drinks

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11 Essential Apps for Travellers Visiting Paris in 2023

Are you excited about exploring the City of Lights? Paris is full of history , culture, and mouth-watering cuisine. But navigating it can be challenging, especially for noobies. Don't sweat. I've got the digital toolkit that will turn you from tourist to local in no time. Here are my absolute go-to apps for Paris in 2023 that help me nail every Paris trip. Whether you're navigating the extensive metro system, hunting down hidden gems, or grabbing those last-minute tickets to a chic fashion show, these apps are your Paris lifeline.

Best Apps for Paris in 2023

1. citymapper, 2. ratp app, 4. duolingo, 5. google translate, 6. google lens, 7. urbs travel app, 9. the fork, 10. mister good beer, best apps navigating paris with ease.

Navigating the streets of Paris can be a thrilling experience, with so many stunning sights around every corner. But to truly make the most of your time in the French capital, you’ll want to use the best apps to get around efficiently. These Paris travel apps will help you traverse the city’s complex public transport system and discover the quickest routes to your destinations, ensuring that your next Paris trip is a breeze.

Let’s dive into the top transportation apps that will make your journey through the City of Lights as seamless as possible, especially when you’re wondering how many bikes are available!

Citymapper is a must-have app for visiting Paris, offering optimized route suggestions, real-time updates, and offline maps to help you confidently navigate the city. This app not only covers the Parisian metro system, but also provides information on buses, trams, and even bikes! With Citymapper in your pocket, you’ll be able to find the best route and transportation mode for any journey, whether you’re heading to the Eiffel Tower or exploring the charming streets of Montmartre.

One of the most impressive features of Citymapper is its ability to adapt to your needs. Need to catch a train at Gare du Nord? Citymapper will tell you exactly where to board the metro to ensure you’re closest to your exit when you arrive. And if you’re worried about not having an internet connection, fear not! Citymapper offers offline maps, allowing you to navigate Paris without using data or relying on spotty public Wi-Fi.

It’s time to download Citymapper and make your trip to Paris as smooth as a perfectly baked croissant!

Download from Google Play or Apple App store .

As the official transportation app for Paris, the RATP App is your go-to source for everything related to public transportation in the city. Providing real-time transit times, route planning, and disruption alerts, this app is an essential tool for navigating Paris’ extensive metro, bus, tram, and RER network. With its user-friendly interface and accurate information, you’ll never have to worry about missing a connection or getting lost in the maze of the Parisian metro system.

The RATP App also offers an official map of the Paris metro system, making it easy to plan your routes and find your way around. Plus, you can receive notifications about delays and disruptions right on your phone, ensuring you’re always in the know about any potential travel issues. Don’t let the complexity of Paris’s public transport system intimidate you – download the RATP App and conquer the city with ease!

Last but not least, Moovit is a comprehensive transportation app that combines the best features of Citymapper and the RATP App. With Moovit, you can:

Access interactive maps

Get real-time information on buses, metros, and RER

Easily plan your journey

Avoid any surprises along the way

One of the most convenient features of Moovit is its ability to wake you up before your stop, ensuring you never miss your destination. So why not give Moovit a try and make your Paris trip even more enjoyable?

Download from Google Play or Apple App store.

Mastering the Language: Essential Language Learning Apps

While many Parisians speak English, learning some basic French phrases can greatly enhance your Paris experience and help you connect with locals. Plus, knowing the language will make it easier to navigate the city, read street signs, and understand menus.

To help you with this endeavour, we’ve compiled a list of essential language learning apps that will make mastering French a fun and enjoyable process. So let’s dive into these fantastic apps and get you speaking the language of love in no time!

Duolingo is a popular language learning app that makes learning French a breeze. With its gamified approach and adaptive learning platform, Duolingo keeps you engaged and motivated, turning language learning into a fun and enjoyable experience. Whether you’re a complete beginner or looking to brush up on your French skills, Duolingo has something for everyone, including teaching you the perfect French word for any situation.

With the free version of Duolingo, you’ll have access to basic language learning features like organized, progressive lessons and fun, game-like activities. Looking for even more? The premium version, known as Super Duolingo, removes ads and unlocks additional features to enhance your learning experience.

So download Duolingo and start practising your French before your trip to Paris!

Google Translate is an indispensable tool for anyone travelling to a foreign country. This free translation app allows you to:

Translate text, speech, and even images in over 100 languages

Easily communicate with locals

Understand signs and menus

Learn new French words and phrases

Making it an essential companion for your Paris trip.

One of the most impressive features of Google Translate is its live camera translation function. Simply open the app, tap the camera icon, and point your device at the text you want to translate – voilà! Google Translate will automatically detect the text and provide an instant translation. This feature is particularly useful for understanding street signs, menus, and other written information during your Paris visit.

Another fantastic app for overcoming language barriers in Paris is Google Lens. This AI-powered image recognition technology uses your smartphone camera to translate text in real time. Much like Google Translate’s camera feature, Google Lens allows you to understand signs, menus, and other written information just by pointing your camera at the text. With Google Lens, you’ll never feel lost in translation during your Paris trip.

Uncovering Hidden Gems: Best Apps for Unique Paris Experiences

Paris is full of iconic attractions and world-famous landmarks. However, some of the most memorable experiences can be found off the beaten path. To help you uncover the city’s hidden gems and unique experiences, we’ve curated a list of apps that will guide you to lesser-known destinations and local favourites.

Urbs Travel App is a fantastic resource for uncovering off-the-beaten-path attractions, restaurants, and experiences in Paris. This app offers personalized recommendations based on your interests and preferences, ensuring you discover hidden gems tailored to your tastes.

The app offers audio descriptions and bespoke routes, with smart city guides written by cultural experts and performed by professional voice-over artists. Whether you’re looking for a cosy neighbourhood bistro or an underground art gallery, Urbs Travel App will help you explore Paris like a local.

Say goodbye to long lines at cultural landmarks with Tiqets, the app that opens doors to culture. You'll never miss out on your dream Paris destinations with instant ticket delivery and Skip the Line options.

The app is your trusted guide, offering a comprehensive list of Paris's must-see attractions and hidden gems. From planning your itinerary to flexible booking options, Tiqets ensures your Paris trip is hassle-free and enriching. With Tiqets in your pocket, you'll feel more prepared and connected to the vibrant culture of London.

Download Tiqets App

Satisfy Your Appetite: Best Apps for Dining in Paris

Paris is a gastronomic paradise, with an abundance of world-class restaurants, cosy bistros, and charming cafes. To help you make the most of your culinary journey, we’ve compiled a list of the best apps for dining in Paris. These apps will help you find the perfect dining experience and offer restaurant reservations, reviews, and exclusive discounts.

So let’s dig into these delicious apps and satisfy your appetite!

The Fork is the ultimate app for dining in Paris, allowing you to book tables, read reviews, and access exclusive discounts at a wide range of Parisian restaurants. With its user-friendly interface and comprehensive list of dining options, you’re sure to find the perfect spot for any occasion, whether it’s a romantic dinner for two or a casual lunch with friends.

What sets The Fork apart from other dining apps is its exclusive discounts and promotions. By booking through the app, you can:

Save up to 50% off your meal at participating restaurants

Earn points for each reservation through the loyalty program

Redeem points for future discounts

So, not only will you discover amazing dining options in Paris, but you’ll also save money while doing so!

For beer enthusiasts visiting Paris, Mister Good Beer is a must-have app. This handy app helps you find budget-friendly bars with quality brews in the city. With reviews and recommendations from fellow beer lovers, you can trust that you’re getting the best experience possible. So raise a glass and say “Santé!” to discover the best craft beer Paris has to offer.

Yelp is invaluable for discovering amazing restaurants, bars, and cafes in Paris. With user-generated reviews and ratings, you can get a feel for the atmosphere, service, and quality of food before you even step foot inside. Plus, it is a great value. Yelp’s custom search filters and themed lists make it easy to find the perfect dining experience based on your preferences and budget.

In conclusion, visiting Paris in 2023 will be an unforgettable experience, thanks in large part to the amazing apps we’ve introduced in this blog post. From navigating the city’s complex public transport system and learning the French language, to uncovering hidden gems and finding the best dining experiences, these apps will help you make the most of your Paris trip. So don’t wait – start planning your dream Paris adventure today and make sure to download these essential apps for a truly magical and memorable journey!

Frequently Asked Questions

What app do i need to travel paris.

If you’re traveling to Paris, then RATP is the perfect app for you! It provides users with detailed information on transportation timetables and next departures - everything you need for a hassle-free experience in the City of Lights.

RATP is easy to use and provides up-to-date information on the Paris Metro, RER, bus, tram, and Noctilien networks. It also has an interesting history.

What are the top transportation apps for navigating Paris?

Don’t worry about navigating Paris - Citymapper, RATP App, and Moovit are the perfect apps to get you from point A to point B!

Which language learning apps are essential for visiting Paris?

You can’t miss the opportunity to learn some French before visiting Paris – Duolingo, Google Translate, and Google Lens are all essential language learning apps for a great experience! These apps are easy to use and can help you understand the language and culture of Paris. They can also help you communicate with locals and make the most of your trip. Duolingo is a great app for learning French. It offers a variety of lessons.

How can I discover unique and hidden gems in Paris?

Explore the backstreets of Paris, and don’t be afraid to wander off the beaten path – you may stumble upon delightful surprises like Paris’s secret gardens, flea markets, hidden bars, and other fascinating places. Our Urbs Travel app's Paris content will also help you find hidden gems based on your interests!

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There may be affiliate links on this page! That just means if you click on a link, find a ticket you like and buy it, we might make some cash. Don’t worry, you won’t pay any extra – sometimes you might even get a tasty discount. It’s a win for us and a win for you too!

Download the app and start exploring

So, what are you waiting for? Download the Urbs app today and bring your travel dreams to life.

The 21 Best Paris Travel Apps For Navigating The City In 2024

On my first trip to paris i got completely lost. sound familiar.

Well that’s where my list of the best Paris Travel Apps gets you out of trouble. All you need is a phone and a sim that lets you roam in France, and you’re all set.

Table of Contents

How often have you been somewhere and needed the toilet, only to have no idea where the nearest one is? Well, fear not, I have two apps to help you find the nearest loo to you in Paris.

And whether you’re looking for the best rooftop terrace for cocktails or where to find a pint of local beer, there are apps for that too.

It’s all about making your trip to Paris easy and giving you more time to explore without getting lost or struggling to navigate the Metro. So let’s dive in and discover which Paris travel apps you need to download.

The Best Paris Travel Apps for 2024

First things first, if you’re coming to France for any other country, do yourself a favour and get an eSim. It’s by far the easiest and cheapest way to use your phone when you’re overseas. I have a whole article dedicated to the best eSim providers to help you .

In total, there are 21 apps I’ve downloaded into my Paris Travel Folder on my phone, and I’ve split them down into categories, so it makes it quicker for you to find the ones you want.

Best Paris Metro Apps

The Metro confuses people, so to make it easy, I have two apps that will help you stay on track, plus an entire article dedicated to using the Metro .

No 1 Paris Metro App

I love this app as it takes the guesswork out of navigating the Metro. It’s an interactive map that allows you to find the best routes from point A to B across Paris. Whether you’re trying to reach the Louvre or find your way back to your hotel in Montmartre, this app simplifies the journey. 

You can search for stations, see real-time train schedules, and even get estimates on journey times. Plus, it’s updated with any service changes, which is super handy when you have to meet a tour guide at a designated time.

🌐 Website | Apple | Android

No 2 Bonjour RATP

Sometimes, the Metro won’t take you where you need to get to, and you’ll need to use the RER trains. This applies to any trips to the Palace of Versailles and also if you’re staying at Disneyland Paris .

Bonjour RATP is an all-in-one tool designed to make Parisian public transport more accessible and user-friendly. It helps you navigate the public transport network in Paris, including metros, buses, trams, and even RER trains.

You’ll get real-time traffic updates and suggestions for the fastest routes. But for me, I love being able to top up my Navigo Travel Card, as it means I don’t have to try and negotiate using the ticket machines. 

Often, if it’s busy, there is a queue, so it saves so much time, and you don’t have to deal with paper tickets, which they are phasing out anyway.

Best Map Apps for Paris

No 3 google maps.

Everyone knows Google Maps, and it is a lifesaver when you’re lost. Or just too tired to try and do it on your own. Either way, we all normally have it on our phones, so it deserves to be on this list.

Apple | Android

No 4 CityMapper

This one is a great alternative to Google Maps as it has everything you’d expect from a map app but with added benefits. It integrates with other apps, such as Uber, Vélib, Bolt and Zipcar, and it has a subscription service, CityMapper PASS, which integrates payment for multiple modes of transport into a single digital pass. 

This is really handy as everything is in one place which saves you searching for it.

🌐  Website | Apple | Android

No 5 Maps.me

Maps.me is your go-to offline map and navigation tool, invaluable if you need to go into areas with limited internet connectivity, or if you don’t have international roaming. 

Unlike other mapping services that rely on a constant internet connection, Maps.me allows you to download maps of entire countries, including France, ahead of your trip. 

This means you can access detailed maps, search for specific locations, and get directions without using data. The app covers everything from streets and cafes to historic sites and hotels, making it perfect for exploring Paris’s hidden gems, which suits me down to the ground.

No 6 Disneyland Paris App

If you’re staying at Disneyland Paris and decide to come into the city for a day or two, then the App will help you navigate. 

Mainly though, it’s there to help you make your way around the parks. From real-time wait times for attractions and shows to interactive maps that guide you through both Disneyland Park and Walt Disney Studios Park.

Paris Taxis Apps

Not all taxi companies are created equal, and you have your choice in Paris.

Everyone knows Uber and it does operate in Paris , but it can be really expensive, so although it’s on the list, it isn’t the one I use when I’m in the city. I tend to use either Bolt or G7, which are both below.

Having said that, if you already have it downloaded on your phone, it can sometimes just be easier to stick with it.

No 8 Bolt  

Bolt is Uber’s biggest competitor, and I’ve found it’s often the cheaper alternative. It works in a similar way, and unlike Uber, they sometimes have discount codes you can use. 

G7 has the largest fleet of electric and hybrid cars in Europe, so I use them when I can. It’s also the official transport app in Paris, Taxis Parisien. Their prices aren’t as inflated as Uber’s.

No 10 Heetch

Heetch started as a nighttime cab company but has now added daytime trips too, so it’s a 24/7 option. I love this brand as their drivers are always really friendly and happy to share tips on the best places to go that aren’t touristy.

I’ve found so many places this way. One driver told me about his daughter being a Harry Potter fan, which my daughter is too. He asked if I’d seen the house of Nicolas Flamel, the alchemist in Harry Potter . 

I hadn’t and didn’t even know it was in Paris. He told me, and I wrote an article all about his life in Paris and subsequent fame in HP.

Restaurant and Drinks Apps in Paris

There are so many restaurants, bistros, bars, and cafes in Paris it can be hard to know where to start. But these four apps get used every time I go to Paris.

No 11 Le Fooding

Le Fooding is created by locals, which I love, and you’ll often find places there a little off the main tourist streets. I’ve discovered some great places I’d never have known about otherwise.

You can search by area, cuisine type, or specific recommendations like “brunch spots” or “romantic dinners.” Each listing is accompanied by detailed reviews, photos, and practical information such as address, hours, and price range.

🌐  Website | Apple | Android  

No 12 La Fourchette/The Fork

The Fork is great for making reservations and often runs special offers when you book through the app. Most recently, I got 15% off my meal, just for using the app. I always check to see if there are any promos before I do anything regarding food or eating in Paris.

No 13 52 Martinis Paris Cocktails App

Unfortunately, there is no Android App for this one, and you can only get the app once you’re in France. I tried downloading it in the UK, and it wouldn’t let me due to region.

However, don’t let that put you off. The website is fab, as is the app once you are allowed to download it.

It’s fun by Forest Collins, and it’s all in English. She’s lived in Paris for 18+ years and is an expert on cocktails, and where to drink them in Paris. 

Plus, she has a great podcast too. I recently had the pleasure of interviewing Forest on my podcast, the Life in Rural France Podcast , so make sure you listen to that to hear more about her journey.

🌐  Website | Apple  

No 14 Mister Good Beer

If you’re not into cocktails and beer is more your thing, then you absolutely have to download Mister Good Beer. My hubby swears by it. He’s more into beer than me. Actually, I hate it, but he doesn’t, so I have the app on my phone.

It’s an app only for France and covers other cities, as well, such as Strasbourg , Toulouse, Marseilles, Lille and Bordeaux.

It tells you where to find the cheapest beer, gives you info on craft beer bars, places running promotions and the latest happy hours. 

Toilet Finder Apps in Paris

We’ve all been caught short before when we’re out and about, and there is nothing worse. I’ve lost count of times I’ve been dying for a wee when I’m in a city I’ve never been to before.

I think these two apps are invaluable, and more importantly, they work.

No 15 Flush Toilet Finder

Flush Toilet Finder is the app you want on your phone when you’re in need of a public restroom. The app features over 200,000 toilets worldwide, making it especially useful in a densely populated and tourist-heavy city like Paris. 

It will tell you where the nearest public toilet is and even give you accessibility information, whether a fee is required, and if a key is needed for access.

There is nothing worse than having to “pay to pee” only to find you have no change! It happened to me at Bordeaux train station, and luckily, I could use my phone to pay. Thank God for that.

No 16 ICI Toilettes

ICI Toilettes is similar but for France as opposed to the entire world. It’s also user-generated, which means it finds bathrooms not widely known, so super helpful when you’re travelling.

It also gives you directions on how to get to each one and covers parks too.

Other Paris Travel Apps

No 17 vélib.

If you fancy exploring Paris by bike, this is a great little app. It gives you access to the city’s extensive bike-sharing system. With thousands of bikes spread across hundreds of stations, Vélib’ allows users to pick up a bike from one station and drop it off at another 

The app shows real-time availability of bikes and docking stations, helping you plan your route and you can choose from classic or electric bikes.

It’s a truly lovely way to explore the city, plus it’s a good green option. I’ve done it once, and we packed a picnic to eat on the banks of the Seine .

No 18 Urbs Travel App

I’ve only recently started using this app, and it’s not just focused on Paris it covers other major cities around the world such as London, Berlin and Barcelona. 

But once you choose your city it gives you everything you could possibly need to know. It integrates information on the Metro, buses, trams, and even rental services like bikes and scooters, and gives you an introduction to the city.

Beyond transport, Urbs includes guides to landmarks, museums, parks, accommodation and airport transfers.

No 19 Deepl

This is my ‘go-to ’ translation app. I’m still learning French and don’t have the confidence I need to just go for it. Now I know most people seem to speak English in places like Paris, but not always. And besides, it’s nice to speak French and not assume everyone will talk to you in English.

Deepl is much better than Google Translate, and it’s more accurate. It also has a camera for scanning text, just like Google Translate. So this is my recommendation for a more accurate translation from English to French.

No 20 Spotted by Locals

Another app I love is Spotted by Locals , who are committed to sustainable travel and produce guides on 82 cities, Paris being one of them.

There is a profile on each ‘spotter’ who is always a local of the city, and you can read all about them. The guides are detailed, up to date and will give you details of places you’ll never find in the tourist guide books.

They aren’t allowed to write about the usual tourist hotspots or chain restaurants. They like to spread the tourism money fairly, supporting local communities and businesses, which I absolutely love.

No 21 Paris Storystreet

This is hands down my favourite app ever. Why? Because it’s all about books and stories set in Paris.

Find all the places featured in Dan Brown’s Da Vinci Code, step into Les Miserables and discover the floating bookstore in The Little Paris Bookshop.

All you do is download the app, select your story and then follow the directions to see all the places in Paris that are featured in that book.

But it gets better you can subscribe for just £0.99 for the year and get access to all the Emily in Paris locations too. Plus, my favourite movie, Midnight in Paris .

FAQS: Best Apps For Paris Travel

What is the best app to use in paris.

The best app to use in Paris depends on your needs. For general navigation and recommendations, Google Maps is highly versatile, offering directions, restaurant reviews, and tourist attraction information. For a local perspective, the Paris Tourist Office App provides detailed guides, maps, and tips to explore the city.

What app to use for transport in Paris?

For transportation in Paris, the RATP app is the most efficient choice. It provides real-time updates, route planning, and schedules for the Metro, RER, buses, and trams, helping users navigate the city’s public transportation system with ease.

What is the best app for finding toilets in Paris?

Flush Toilet Finder is the best app for finding toilets in Paris. It has a comprehensive database of public restrooms across the city, including details about accessibility, charge, and opening hours, making it convenient for tourists and locals alike.

What is the secret of Paris app?

The secret of the Paris app refers to “Paris Storystreet,” an app designed to uncover hidden gems and lesser-known attractions in Paris. It guides users to unique spots, historical anecdotes, and off-the-beaten-path experiences, offering a deeper insight into the city beyond its famous landmarks.

Final thoughts: Best Travel Apps For Paris

I’ll continue adding to this list each time I find a new app for Paris that I’ve used and found helpful.

In the meantime, I hope you enjoy exploring one of my favourite cities in France and fall in love with it as much as I have.

TRAVELLING TO FRANCE?

Here are my favourite resources I use each time I travel!

🧳 I always protected my trips with  this travel insurance company when I lived in the US  AND  this one now I live in Europe ​

🚘 I found a car rental for $500 less than traditional sites with  this car rental agency ​

🚌 🍷  My favourite platform  to find Day Trips and Wine Tours in France at the best price and with great reviews 

🚂 The cheapest train tickets are  always on this App ​

🏨 I got a 20% discount on a chateau hotel with  this hotel booking tool ​

I personally use these sites myself and if you use them, they will earn me a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps reduce the ever-increasing cost of maintaining my blog and writing about France. Thank you!

Kylie Lang is the founder of Life in Rural France. She moved to France in 2016 and lives in the beautiful Charente region in the Nouvelle Aquitaine. Through the blog, she showcases the best places to visit in France, especially in the South West. From chateaux and winery tours to hotels and restaurants, she has first-hand experience of life in France.

9 Essential Apps for Getting the Most Out of Your Trip to Paris

• By Rachel Huber
• April 9, 2018

Once upon a time a trip to Paris meant traveling with a stack of books, from city guides to phrasebooks, restaurant round-ups to metro and street maps. Thankfully, if there’s one thing the smartphone has heralded it is an era for emptier backpacks, relieved shoulders, and thousands of cool, new, and ever-practical ways to navigate the city like a pro. Welcome to the age of the appli (that’s app to you and me). Chances are you’ve already got a home screen laden with faithful go-to’s, but these free Paris-friendly options are guaranteed to give you that edge to truly make the most of your next stay.

Enjoy arty anecdotes with  Artips

Sure, long languid days spent taking in an entire museum can be great  — if not tiring  — but sometimes there’s nothing better than speedily dipping in and out of an art museum, especially for those in a time crunch. Based on a popular e-newsletter that shares bite-sized anecdotes on art history, Artips, which is available in French and English, offers up fun round-ups of the 10 essential pieces of art to visit at each Paris museum. Better yet, all the anecdotes are available in audio or written form. While the app is free, there are optional paid upgrades for some additional content.

Walk Paris with Eco Walks ( Paris Balades  Durables)

There’s no better way to see Paris than on foot and since the city of Paris has dedicated millions of euros to improving access to pedestrian and green spaces, it’s also the ideal way to get in touch with nature right in the heart of the city. Pull up the app to find the closest 2 km stroll, or use it to plan a longer walk. This app serves up an array of walking itineraries in and around the city, no matter whether you’re craving a walk along a pretty planted walkway, or through a historical neighborhood. Bookmark and share favorites and read information as you go.

Find restrooms with  Où sont les toilettes?

Public toilets and lack thereof can be one of the biggest complaints for travelers in Paris. And while using one of those infamous sidewalk restrooms with their automatic opening doors can represent a rite of passage for many, they can also often be out of order or just too intimidating for kids. This highly-rated app from toilet paper company Le Trèfle brings together thousands of toilet locations including disabled access restrooms, all so you don’t have to buy something to use a Starbucks bathroom. There are even cleanliness reviews included.

Uncover hidden gems with  Secrets de Paris

If you’ve been curating endless lists of must-see spots and Instagrammable café terraces for your next visit, stop now and download this app. Designed to serve up a constant rotation of hidden spots, you’ll find everything you need for getting that essential, local-eye-view of the city. Refreshed each and every day with a new must-try local spot, save your favorites or check out the archives. Available in French and English. Camera at the ready, your Instagram grid will thank you.

Go sightseeing with  Paris Monument Tracker

Perfect for sightseers looking to maximize their monument count, this simple monument app makes hitting up points of interest a breeze. Download ready-made walking itineraries, access background information, and enjoy fun Paris monument-themed quizzes and virtual treasure hunts. Complete with easy offline mapping, check out the Paris map app or download one of the developer’s other city versions, including Lyon and Nice.

Get around town with  Paris Travel Guide and Offline City Map

Don’t blast through your data, download Ulmon’s offline mapping app for handy maps and public transport planners. Consistently updated to feature up-to-the-minute information and travel advice, this app will even show you street numbers so you can figure out which side of the street and how far to walk.

Take in urban art with My Paris Street Art

Mapping as many space Invader mosaics you can around Paris? Looking for some lesser known pieces of street art? The Paris Street Art app makes hunting down street art easy so you can locate and share your finds. Log in and use it to find the closest designs, or simply read about the work around you.

Find the right words with  Translate Offline: French Free

Need a French word? How about an entire phrase? Google translate can be a life saver, but when roaming charges are a concern, it’s certainly not the most practical solution. Enter this handy app that works offline to translate as you type. There are even voice input and picture input options so you can translate signs and spoken word. Better still, there are even options to create your own reference history and personalized phrasebook.

Eat well with  Le Fooding

With café, bistro, and restaurant choices aplenty, there’s no danger of going hungry in Paris. There is, however, the risk of feeling unable to choose the right spot for lunch or dinner. Enter Le Fooding, a popular restaurant guide with its own app. Free to download, Le Fooding makes picking the nearest, best, fanciest, cheapest or trendiest spot around a cinch. Find weekly news content, thousands of reviews and make restaurant reservations in a few stress-free English-language clicks. Bon appétit!

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PARIS TRAVEL , GETTING AROUND · July 14, 2022

The 7 Most Indispensable Paris Travel Apps

Using your smartphone to navigate a large city is a great way to get around. Here is a list of my 7 favorite Paris travel apps, with links included, that I find indispensable and may be helpful during your visit to Paris. These apps will help you understand important information if you don’t speak French, such as translating French to English, finding a toilet in Paris, staying up to date on local and world news, navigating the city on foot, and some of the transportation app options that are available.

While most of the apps mentioned in this post will work offline, meaning without a Wi-Fi connection, free Wi-Fi (pronounced wee-fee in French) in Paris is widely available and the options are growing every year,  especially in the lead-up to Paris hosting the 2024 Summer Olympics.  Many museums, cafés, and shops, in addition to most hotels, offer it. I’ll talk more about how to access Wi-Fi in another post.

DISCLAIMER: Please note that as an iOS/Apple user, I do not have any experience with Android products. Nor can I guarantee the results you have personally with any of the apps I discuss in this post, whether iOS/Apple or Android.

Table of Contents

1.      GOOGLE TRANSLATE

Far and away the most useful app to download for your trip to Paris, in my opinion, is the Google Translate app. Google Translate is the world’s number one translation software and supports over 100 languages.   Although I read and speak French, I have found so many situations where this app has been extremely helpful.  (Including when I broke my ankle in Rome on a solo trip and the ER doc spoke zero English. But that’s another story for another time.)

Another great feature of the Google Translate app is that it also works offline so you can translate French without internet access.  Here are the links:

GOOGLE TRANSLATE APPLE

GOOGLE TRANSLATE ANDROID

In addition to its ease of use, one of the features I love about the Google Translate app is the instant camera translation feature. This allows you to translate the text in an image, such as a sign or menu, by using your smartphone’s camera.  I use this feature frequently on the hand-lettered chalkboard menus displayed outside so many Parisian restaurants.

To utilize the camera-scan feature first download the Google Translate app to your device. Then, visit the Google Translate Help page (link below) for useful and easy-to-understand instructions to use the app on both iOS and Android devices.  Look under the header of the article to select your device type.

Here is the link to How to scan an image in Google Translate

2.      FLUSH – TOILET FINDER

Hands down, this is the fastest and easiest way to find a public toilet or restroom in Paris. The Flush app does exactly what it is supposed to do. Based on your location, it displays a map with toilets and tells you which toilets have ADA-disabled access, and which ones require a fee for usage or a key for entry. And, when you tap the location you want, it provides suggested routes to get there – on foot or public transportation!   This is super helpful if you don’t know the city. Available in the Apple app store and Google Play for Android users.

FLUSH – TOILET FINDER APPLE         

FLUSH – TOILET FINDER ANDROID

I always carry a small Ziploc bag of extra toilet paper in my day bag – just in case.

3.      france 24 (news in english).

Let’s face it, we live in interesting times.  And while on vacation, it’s wonderful to disconnect and relax on our hard-earned and long-planned vacation. However, when and/or if things happen in Paris specifically, like a transit strike or protest, or in other parts of the world, it is nice to have a source in France that presents 24/7 the latest local, regional, and world news stories, and special reports in English.  (Links below)

FRANCE 24 APPLE

FRANCE 24 ANDROID

The FRANCE 24 social media apps also present breaking and relevant news and information. Here are links to two options:

FRANCE 24 FACEBOOK

FRANCE 24 TWITTER      

4.      METRO PARIS – MAP & ROUTES

Offline Maps & Route Planner – Designed for iPhone 

I use the version designed for the iPhone. This is hands-down, the app I use most frequently in Paris. I love it because I can pre-plan my routes.  It also has a geo-location finder that shows you the Metro station located nearest your present location. 

My favorite part of this app is the “Route” option.  If I need to travel on the Paris Metro from the Charles De Gaulle – Étoile station to the République station this app plans it out in very easy-to-follow steps, including where and when to switch lines. Best of all, with the “Route” option, it is intuitive with the name of the station so as a non-French-speaking traveler, it auto-populates the search for station names for you to select. So easy!!   It even has an option to save your favorite routes.  Ohh-la-la!!  (Links below) 

PRO TIP #2:  

Although the ios version is designed for offline use, i screenshot the route stops, including line changes, if needed, that i can quickly glance at from point a to point b. this helps me feel comfortable knowing where i am going by verifying the direction i need to travel on that specific line, knowing if and/or where i need to switch lines, and double-checking what stop i need to exit at my destination. using this method, i am not constantly looking at the app on my phone, hence not paying attention to and possibly making myself a target for pickpockets, and other nare-do-wells., pro tip #3:, while the primary tourist area of paris is located within zones 1-3, this free app also includes zones 1-5 of the rer/paris metro system, including routes to and from paris-aéroport charles de gaulle (cdg.)  .

METRO PARIS – MAP & ROUTES APPLE

METRO PARIS – MAP & ROUTES ANDROID:    

5. ADDITIONAL NAVIGATION, TRANSPORT & TOURIST GUIDE APPS FOR ANDROID & iOS USERS

There are some fantastic navigation, transportation, and tourist guide apps in addition to those I mention above.  I use both MAPS.ME and MOOVIT on all my trips.  If you are planning your first trip to Paris, or your last visit was pre-COVID, I suggest looking at these options in addition to the apps I mentioned above. Both are available offline.  Both apps are free to download but require in-app purchases depending on the type of transport you select.

A) MAPS.ME: FREE WITH IN-APP PURCHASES

For an overview of the MAPS.ME app:    CLICK HERE

Visit this link to learn about the different categories MAPS.ME offers in its catalog: Including Entertainment, Attractions, Business, Lodging, Shops, Health Food, Education, Transport, and Finance.

MAPS.ME APPLE

MAPS.ME ANDROID

B) MOOV-IT: FREE WITH IN-APP PURCHASES

MOOVIT is a terrific all-in-one mobility and transit app. It will get you anywhere you want to go using public transportation and other forms of transport including buses, trains, subway, bikes, scooters, Uber, Lyft, and more in Paris.         

MOOVIT APPLE

MOOVIT ANDROID

6.      G7 TAXI APP

I now use the G7 app exclusively in Paris, when not taking public transportation like the Metro or bus.  I have found their service to be very reliable. Now I reserve a taxi for my arrival at Paris-Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) and when it’s time to head home on my return trip back to CDG.

First, a quick word about Uber. During pre-COVID travel in Paris, I used Uber frequently, even though I had several instances where the driver confirmed and then canceled my trip.  Post-COVID is another story altogether.  Multiple Uber cancellations on one ride have become more frequent and depending on the time of year you are traveling, such as the high season from April through August, the wait time can be quite long. However, I do update all my Uber (and Lyft) account information BEFORE traveling in case I need to use it as a backup.

What I love about G7 is that you can book for an immediate departure or a future booking. Once you open the app, you are geo-located, like Uber and Lyft, you then indicate the number of passengers – and the app adapts to your request.

G7 TAXI APPLE

G7 TAXI ANDROID

A COUPLE OF FINAL PRO TIPS : 

Download all the Paris apps that you think you might need or use BEFORE your trip and before you depart the United States. Take a little time to familiarize yourself with them and practice using them in your area.  Doing this will make it easier for you to transfer your knowledge when using the apps in Paris. All the links I’ve shared in this post are for United States users.

For downloaded apps that are “pay-in app” such as the G7 taxi app, be sure to register or set up an account, if needed, and then enter your payment information  (credit card info) BEFORE you leave the United States.

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12 Best Travel Apps for Your Visit to Paris: Transport, Discovery, Tips

If you travel one or several times a year, you already know that travelers' best friends are their phone now. This little device becomes so handy in a foreign country, almost essential. Its first practicality is to help you locate and direct yourself like a local, in places you have never been to. But that's not it ! 

Nowadays, there are thousands of applications dedicated to help you travel more easily in different ways: locate restaurants or paths to walk, find free WIFI or restrooms, order food, get in touch with local friends, arrange transportation... Even the cities themselves develop apps to support the visitors in their experience.

In this article, we have compiled some of the best travel apps that would be helpful to download before your travel to Pari s. Check them out and let us know which ones you find vital to have on your phone !

Traveler's Tip: Don't miss out on the opportunity to save time and money on your visit to Paris! Consider purchasing a city pass in addition to using the best travel apps for the city. Check out our guide to the Best City Pass for Paris to find the right options for your itinerary and budget.

TABLE OF Contents 

1. RATP App

RATP is the transportation application of the main transport company in Paris . It helps checking timetables and next departures around you when in Paris. It allows you to plan your route, view transit times in real time, receive alerts in the event of disruption on your lines (which happens more often than we think) and view all RATP network maps. You can find all the information on your RER, Metro, Bus, Tramway, Transilien modes of transport. Gives the information about the density of the travel on your route.

• Download RATP

2. City Mapper App

Picture Credit: https://www.archdaily.com

City mapper is a great free application that provides the comfort of wandering around as if you are not a stranger to that city but a local. This application will save you from confusion when you need to get somewhere in Paris either by a vehicle or on foot. It guides you to the station you need to get on and tells you after how many minutes the vehicle will arrive, which stop you are at, how many stops are left. It is one of the most used app in the world when it comes to travel.

• Download City Mapper

3.  Your Mobile Guide App

It is nice to visit a beautiful place like Paris, the streets are like museums and every corner hides a new discovery building, monument or church. But if you don't know anything about them, you might feel easily bored or even frustrated ! The ideal solution would be to have a local guide in your pocket... Well, believe it or not, it's possible thanks to the Your Mobile App , an audioguide App ! This app is the only one to offer audioguides from local people, professionals mostly, who make you discover the city for a few euros. This concept is new and revolutionary. Enjoy !

• Download the Paris Audioguide Apps

4.  Wevat, the tax refund app

Wevat is a digital tax refund app that makes it easy for travellers to save money on their shopping in France. Compared to traditional in-store VAT refund methods, Wevat gives you up to 23% more VAT back. There’s also no minimum spend per purchase, as long as your spend over the whole trip is more than €100, you can claim! Just make sure you download Wevat before your trip  and remember to  ask for a ‘Facture’  (the French word for invoice) addressed to Wevat when shopping. Then simply snap a picture of your purchase invoices, generate and  scan your barcode  when you leave France. There are no paper forms , no repeated scanning or dropping off forms required with Wevat. It’s also fully regulated by both French and UK customs.

• Download the Wevat App 
• Know more about  Wevat and tax-free shopping in France
• Get a €5 refund bonus on your shopping with this code: PARISTOURISTINFO

5. Secrets de Paris  

Picture Credit: Google Play

Secrets de Paris is a free application that gives you a lot of usefull information about the unknown places that worths to see such as rooftops with a view, secret passageways, less known interesting streets or original restaurants. You can mark whatever takes your interest, create your own favorite list and find that place later. Discover the secrets through the interactive maps of Secrets de Paris.

• Download Secrets de Paris

6. WIFI Finder  

To see the nearest WiFi hotspots, this is a must have application. This is certainly easier to tap into a Wi Fi finder and let it direct you to the closest place with public hotspot than searching for a network by chance. 

• Download WI FI Finder

7.  Disneyland Paris

This is a must have application to find your way around Disneyland Paris to make the most of your visit. After passing through the entrance of the park, all the facilities can be used unlimitedly throughout the day at no additional cost. You should be prepared to  that you might  need to wait for long queues that occur from time to time. To control your time more effectively and enjoy the magic, this application will guide you. The users can check out the waiting times for the rides in real time. It is possible to check out the restaurant options as well as the shows and parades with the characters in the park.

• Download Disneyland Paris App
• Know more about Disneyland Paris Access and Attractions
• Get your Disneyland® Paris: Dated E-Ticket now !

Uber is actively operating in Paris. Standing out with its price consistency, feedback features and ease of payment, Uber would be a good option when there is a need for a ride. UberPOOL is the cheapest option as it allows you to share the vehicle with other passangers and share the price. Uber X could be a better and more economical option when you're going to travel with 3 or 4 people. 

• Download Uber app
• Get - 5 € discount on your next Uber ride with this code : 
• Learn more about Taxis and Taxi Apps in Paris

9. The Fork

The Fork is an application to make restaurant reservations easily. It is possible to check out the real reviews of the customers as well as shared photos. In France it is used commonly and also known as "La Fourchette". The Fork enables users to check the restaurants sorted by distance and keeps them updated about hourly deals of the restaurants. Every reservation made from the application makes the users earn points to be used for later bookings. 

• Download The Fork

10.  Mister Good Beer   

Mister Good Beer is a very popular application in Paris that shows list of bars around you with good beers, together with the prices. It becomes the best friend of beer hunters telling  the best  budget friendly and tasty options, besides how to get there. As the application keeps itself updated regularly, it is possible to stay informed about the "happy hours" of the bars nearby. It is a free application, very usefull for tourists and locals available for both iOS and Android.

• Download Mister Good Beer

11.   Balades Paris Durable

"Balades Paris Durable" is a free mobile application to discover several urban walking routes in Paris . An innovative idea to explore lots of alternative walks with little known facts about ecology around the capital. It is a fun way of learning a lot about Parisian biodiversity on your way to make your own discoveries with the details about common species, new garden concepts and developments. The users can share photos from the routes that could be found on the galleries.

• Download Balades Paris Durable

12.  Où sont les toilettes ?

Picture Credit : https://www.justgeek.fr/

When the emergency rings bell, you don't need to feel extra stranger in the streets of Paris you just started discovering. One of the most challenging thing for a tourist in Paris is to find a public toilet on the right time. But it is possible to be prepared by having this application before the extreme emergency situations. "Où sont les toilettes ?" will save the life of many parents during their vacation in Paris. It is used by travelers as much as by locals.

• Download Où sont les toilettes ?  (Android)
• Download Où sont les toilettes ? (iOS)
• If you are planing your trip to Paris, we recommend you check our tips on these articles : How to get a Taxi in Paris , TOP 30 Best Museums in Paris , DisneyLand Paris Tips and Tickets or 100 Things to do in Paris .

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8 Great Apps For Getting The Most Out Of Paris

Knowing where to begin when exploring a city like Paris can be a daunting prospect. Luckily, there are a number of fantastic apps that make it easier to navigate, eat, and enjoy the city. Here are a few of our top picks for apps to help you get around Paris.

Citymapper is truly a cut above the multitude of route-planning apps that saturate the market. Not only will it give you a number of different options of public transport that will get you where you need to go, factoring in delays, but also includes the walking and taxi journey time. The best feature of all is that it will give you a cycle route, with Vélib (Paris bike system) points marked on the map, along with the distance you will cover, number of calories you will consume in doing so, alongside a hilarious conversion into its equivalent in French food. Seriously, you will wonder how you ever managed without it. The app cannot be used offline, so make sure you plan your journeys before and take screenshots to refer to later. You can download on iTunes and Google Play .

Yandex – Translate

For those emergency scenarios when you are struggling to make sense of a menu, or you need to ask for something in a shop – Yandex is the perfect app. Thanks to the fact that it functions offline, you do not even need to worry about finding a wi-fi spot before making yourself understood! It can translate from an image or sound recording too, which can come in incredibly handy. Get it on iTunes and Google Play .

The Culture Trip App

The easiest part about traveling in a city is seeing the tourist attractions. The hardest part? Experiencing the place like a local. With The Culture Trip App , visitors have the best of art, food, culture, and local tips at the touch of a finger. It’s very easy to use: just select your location and choose from the “I Want” menu, which offers a range of options, including art, music, history, food, film, design, travel and more. Best of all, the app covers every city in the world – so you can always be in the know, no matter where you are. Get it on iTunes and Google Play

Ulmon (City Maps to go)

This is a very handy little app , which not only allows you to access detailed maps of the city offline but also provides articles and travel tips based on your interests. When you download, you will be asked to highlight your interests from a list of options and then personalize accordingly. With each attraction listed, comes a link to nearby hotels, reviews from other visitors and information about that place. If you are someone who really likes to plan ahead, there is also the option to create a bucket list, bringing everything you want to do into one place. Get it on iTunes and Google Play .

This app is every foodie’s dream come true. No matter where you are in the city, you can open up its map which has recommended restaurants plotted all over it, along with reviews and price guidelines, all accessible offline. Le Fooding Guide is written by Parisians, for Parisians, and they specialize in contemporary and creative restaurants, so you can be sure that their suggestions will take you somewhere exciting, and you will be dining with the locals. You can search by location, price or food type, and it also has a ‘chance’ feature, which gives you a completely surprise suggestion when you shake your phone – go on, live a little! Get it on iTunes and Google Play .

La Fourchette/The Fork

This is one for foodies on a budget: it can be used to both find and book a restaurant, providing offers of up to 50 percent off when you book through the app, making dining in the city quite a bit more affordable. Each option comes with a link to TripAdvisor reviews and a menu, so you can be sure you are making the right choice. Get it on iTunes and Google Play .

Spotted By Locals

This app is not exclusive to Paris, but it is an incredible tool for those who like to explore a little beyond the main tourist spots. Although it is not free, it is absolutely worth the few dollars you will pay for it, with honest, insider advice from Parisian journalists who genuinely seem to care about their audience. Get it on iTunes and Google Play .

Paris Guide Monument Tracker

Paris boasts some of the most beautiful monuments and buildings in the world. So much so that it is often difficult to keep track of what they all are and their significance. This app is genius, listing every monument with a concise and palatable description of its history. It also includes a quiz and treasure hunt, a fun little way to get to know the city as well as information and prices on events and activities. A word of warning though, you may want to turn off location tracking since it will drain your battery… fast! Get it on iTunes and Google Play .

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

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Américaine in France

7 essential phone apps for your trip to paris.

This post may contain affiliate links, meaning that if you click and make a purchase, I may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. Read the full disclosure here .

These essential phone apps will help you navigate Paris during your upcoming trip so that you can get the most out of your time here in the city. Ensure that you stay connected throughout your travel and download these mobile apps before you arrive in France!

Table of Contents

1. Citymapper

Technology has certainly changed a lot since when I first came to Paris and used a paper map to get around! Now there’s an app to let me know how many croissants I have burned on my walk!

On a serious note, Citymapper is hands down the best navigation map out there. You’ll be able to compare all the different modes of transportation—bike, bus, metro, taxi, scooter, etc. In the provided itineraries, Citymapper takes into account current traffic and potential problems on metro lines. Particularly useful for the Paris metro, Citymapper suggests the best metro car to get into and which metro exit to take, making your transfers and trips even smoother. 

Another feature worth mentioning is the option to choose the fastest walking route versus a route consisting of only main roads which will generally be better lit and more populated. This is a good option if you are walking alone at night or if you have any concerns about safety.

➡️ Tip! Google Maps can be used offline. You just need to download the area and save it to your phone for future reference.

2. Bonjour RATP

Bonjour RATP is the official public transportation app for Paris and all of the Ile-de-France region. It covers the bus, metro, RER, tram, Transilien trains, and Noctilien night buses. Truthfully, I don’t consider it a user-friendly app for navigation, but there are two reason why I’ve added it to this round-up list.

First off, particularly on the metro, it’s quite common to encounter stations that are closed or not being serviced due to demonstrations, strikes, accidents, or work being completed on the line. You can quickly check this app to see the current status of lines and decide if you need to take an alternate route. 

Related: Navigating Paris During Strikes and Protests

Secondly, paper transportation tickets are being phased out in Paris. The best option for tourists is a Navigo Easy pass . This is a plastic card that can be reloaded with tickets. You can make purchases directly through the Bonjour RATP app.

➡️ Tip! If you’re traveling around France by train at all, take a look at these two applications: SNCF Connect and SNCF Assistant.

G7 is Europe’s leading taxi provider and my go-to. Their drivers are professional and courteous, their fleet of cars is sleek and eco-conscious, and they have good customer service. With G7, you can select special accommodations, like an English-speaking driver or a booster seat for children. The app allows you to call a car for immediate pickup or schedule a ride in advance.

One of the more powerful features of the G7 Taxi app is the ability to schedule a taxi in advance to the airport. This is especially helpful if you have a very early (or very late) flight and public transportation isn’t running as frequently. (Personally, I think that taking a taxi to and from the Paris airport is worth it at any time of the day!)

➡️ Tip! Uber also works in Paris, and you can use the same account that you’ve already created in the United States.

4. WhatsApp Messenger

WhatsApp is a free messaging service through which you can exchange texts, make voice calls, and send voice messages. It sends and receives messages over cellular data or a Wi-Fi connection. Therefore, it’s especially useful when traveling because it doesn’t count as an international call. Popular with tourists and locals alike, I’ve used WhatsApp to stay in touch with friends and family while traveling in many different countries. Facebook Messenger is another one of my go-to apps.

It’s a good idea to have a number of ways to contact people. Keep in mind that Instagram, Facebook, and WhatsApp are all owned by the same company. They have failed in the past, so I would not recommend solely relying on Wi-Fi and smartphone apps. 

I recommend purchasing a SIM card with international data, calling, and texting. This will allow you to access all your apps as you usually do without roaming frees from your regular cell phone carrier. Pick a local SIM card that will reliably connect you to a French phone network. (Be sure to check that your phone is “unlocked.”) Read my full review on the best prepaid SIM card for France . 

➡️ Tip! When texting with a fellow iPhone user, you can send iMessages for free no matter where you are in the world.

5. WordReference Dictionary

As a former French teacher, WordReference is the resource that I would recommend to you if you need to look up words and phrases in French during your stay in Paris. Unlike a translation service that needs adequate context to work properly, WordReference is a dictionary, giving you more control over the word choice as it shows you multiple possible meanings.

A powerful component of this app is that you can listen to the pronunciation of words. This will allow you to learn how to say a few essential greetings and pleasantries in preparation for your encounters with French people. Don’t be the tourist that makes the mistake of not learning a bit of French before embarking on your Parisian adventure.

WordReference is the best choice for isolated words and phrases. If you are looking to translate full sentences, I recommend DeepL Translator. Compared to other translation services, I’ve consistently found DeepL to be the most accurate.

6. FlashInvaders

“Essential” is certainly a subjective word, isn’t it? While many people might not consider this smartphone app to be essential, I am certain you’ll become addicted to this fun game. It’s not just for kids!

Created by the Parisian street artist , Invader, FlashInvaders is a free, interactive app that goes along with his artwork. He has “invaded” cities around the world with mosaic Space Invaders. Since Paris is the first city where he started this project, this is where you’ll find the biggest number of his creations. Open the app to snap a photo when you spot one, fill your gallery with as many as you can, and compare your score to players around the world. Happy hunting!

Using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) is the only way to keep your personal information and data secure when accessing public Wi-Fi. In our world of constant connectivity, it’s easy to quickly jump on a public Wi-Fi hotspot without considering the risks. Always keep in mind that if you are able to access a public Wi-Fi hotspot, including your hotel’s Wi-Fi, other people can access it, too.

Limit the sites that you access while on public Wi-Fi or give yourself complete peace of mind by purchasing a VPN. It’s become a habit for me to use a VPN during all my travels now, and the one click activation with NordVPN makes it effortless.

Bonus—Websites to Bookmark

US Embassy : Check alerts for demonstrations, protests, and other travel advisories.  CDC : Travel requirements to and from the United States related to Covid. France Diplomacy : Information for foreigners traveling to France. France24 : International news with many updates of current events in France. Paris Tourist Office : Official website with information and practical tips for museums, events, and more.

➡️ Tip! Make sure you invest in a powerful portable charger for your phone to keep it going all day.

P.S. Do you have the French emergency numbers noted down in your phone?

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Europe , DESTINATIONS , France , Travel To Paris · 17/06/2023

9 Best Paris Travel Apps To Plan The Perfect Trip

Last updated on April 16th, 2024 at 09:00 am

Are you planning a trip to the enchanting city of Paris? In this digital age, travel apps have become indispensable tools for explorers, seamlessly transforming how we navigate, discover, and experience new destinations.

And when it comes to the City of Light, there is a treasure trove of Paris travel apps waiting to elevate your journey to new heights.

From navigating the intricate web of public transportation to finding the best local dining spots and unlocking hidden gems, these handy applications will be your trusted companions throughout your Parisian adventure. Join us as we unveil the must-have Paris travel apps that will ensure you have an unforgettable experience in the mesmerizing streets of Paris.

Best Paris Travel Apps To Plan The Perfect Trip

This list includes the best apps for visiting Paris; from transportation to things to do and places to eat, you can have everything at your fingertips.

Make sure to also check out those 17 things before visiting Paris to ensure a smooth trip!

Best Apps To Get Around Paris

Paris Public Transportation App: RATP

One app you will use the most during your trip is if you plan to use the metro to get around the city. Which you will do at some point as it is convenient to get from one point to another.

Even though I still think walking and getting lost is one of the most effective ways to explore a city!

The RATP app lets you get every itinerary from points A to B. With the different options, you can choose which transportation you want to use: Metro, Bus, Team or even Velib (bicycle to rent on the street). It’s a very convenient and basic app nearly all Parisians use to know itineraries or timetables.

In conclusion, this app is perfect for navigating Paris’s public transportation system. It provides information on metro, bus, and RER (regional train) routes, schedules, and real-time updates. You can plan your journeys, check for disruptions, and receive notifications about delays (which sadly happens a lot, especially over the Parisians summer)

You can also check the online RATP website .

City Mapper

City Mapper is another travel itinerary that can be very useful when you visit Paris. If you plan to use more than just the Parisian metro and explore further than Paris, this app will help you out in a more detailed way than the RATP one.

It gives you the price of your journey and the minutes and even the calories you’ll burn if you decide to take the bike or walk! You can also find the duration it would take on several taxi companies such as Uber or G7.

Using the metro will also let you know if it’s best to get on at the front, middle or back, depending on where you’ll get off to be as close as possible to the exit. Pretty amazing!

Visit Paris By Metro

RATP runs another helpful app to get around Paris; this app also shows you the city’s prominent landmarks and attractions and the instructions to get there by public transport. Hence the app’s name; it’s a fun way to get around the city quickly and not miss anything.

Velib’

Are you more of a bike person rather than a public transports? Then no worries, you can always hop on a bike.

Although Paris’ traffic can be a bit crazy, and while city drivers are accustomed to bike, and the city has many bike lanes, always ride carefully.

With the Velib app, you can identify the closest docking stations and how many bikes are available – for pick up or deposit.

Apps To Help You Communicate With The Locals

Being able to communicate with the locals when you travel is very important. While English is immensely spoken worldwide, please remember it doesn’t mean that everybody speaks English and that you are entitled to speak to everyone in English and expect them to understand you fully.

Of course, no one expects you to be fluent in every language of every place you visit, and in touristy places, most people will speak English; knowing a few simple words always goes a long way.

Here are some good travel apps you can use when you visit Paris for a better understanding of the language and your surroundings to facilitate your trip/

English French Dictionary

When travelling to a non-English speaking country, you should never assume everyone can speak English. English is a worldwide language, but that doesn’t mean everyone does.

So you should know at least a few words; a little effort can go a long way! If you get a Larousse dictionary, you can get every phrase you need to know, no matter the situation. Not only is it one of the best Paris travel apps, but it’s also valid everywhere in France.

If you’d like to read more about French, here are 20 helpful travel sentences to know!

Google Translate Photo App

In this digital era, the Google Translate Photo App has revolutionized how we interact and connect with people worldwide.

By harnessing the power of artificial intelligence and image recognition, this ingenious application enables you to translate text captured in photos instantly.

Whether you’re deciphering street signs, menus, or even handwritten notes, the Google Translate Photo App empowers you to break through linguistic barriers and unlock a world of communication possibilities.

Apps To Help You Find What To Do In Paris

Following this list of the best Paris travel apps, we have all the apps that will help you find out what to do in Paris or where to eat in Paris.

TheFork is the best app to help you decide where to eat by finding the best restaurants!

Formerly known as “LaFourchette,” TheFork is a popular restaurant reservation app. It allows you to discover and book tables at a wide range of restaurants in Paris. The app helps with rating and discovering new places and often provides exclusive discounts and deals, making securing a spot at popular dining establishments easier.

It is excellent to keep a budget during your trip to Paris, as it can get quickly pricey and indulge yourself simultaneously.

You may also discover some great restaurants you may not have if you’re looking at a traditional Paris travel guide. They also give you “yums” points to collect for more discount.

Spotted By Locals in Paris

However, this app is not specially dedicated to Paris and is helpful if you visit Paris. With spots by locals, you’ll be able to find great off-the-beaten-path activities in Paris to immerse yourself in the city, like a local entirely.

You will find some places and things to do you’d have never suspected the existence of. I am a local myself, and I also find some new stuff there occasionally!

In conclusion, Spotted by Locals can easily be another go-to travel app for Parisian explorers looking to venture beyond tourist hotspots. With insider tips from passionate local residents, it unveils the city’s hidden gems, authentic experiences, and offbeat attractions, making your journey in Paris truly unforgettable.

MyLittleParis

Indeed, if you’re familiar with Instagram and have been following some accounts about Paris, you have indeed seen the MyLittleParis account.

Did you know they have an app? Well, now you do; they offer a new offering for a limited duration with fun activities every couple of days.

MyLittleParis is a good companion for those seeking a curated and authentic Parisian experience, offering insider tips and recommendations to uncover the city’s hidden gems. With its delightful blend of local expertise and unique finds, MyLittleParis is your key to unlocking the true essence of the enchanting French capital.

It is quite haphazardous, but it’s worth checking up if you’re in the city for longer than a weekend!

GetYourGuide

GetYourGuide is an excellent travel app for Paris that offers a wide range of activities, tours, and experiences to enhance your visit.

Focusing on curated and verified options helps you discover Paris’s best attractions and experiences.

This app provides diverse activities (& easy booking process), ranging from iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and Louvre Museum to hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path experiences. You can find guided tours, skip-the-line tickets, food tours, river cruises, and more catering to various interests and preferences.

The app collaborates with local guides and tour operators, ensuring you have access to knowledgeable professionals who can provide insights, historical context, and interesting facts about the attractions you visit. This local expertise adds depth to your experience.

This app isn’t just great for Paris; it’s a great travel app for anywhere you travel in the world!

That’s a wrap for my nine best Paris travel apps; now, you must download them and prepare for your perfect trip to Paris. All you have to do is find all the spots you want to check out and enjoy your Parisian adventure.

Remember to download these apps before your trip and ensure that you have access to reliable internet connectivity while in Paris. These apps can significantly enhance your travel experience and help you navigate the city more efficiently.

More Paris Travel Guide worth checking out to plan your trip:

I hope those apps for Paris will help you, but you might also want to check more of my Paris content for extra tips and informations about the best things to do in the city.

50 free things to do in Paris

Best things to do in Paris In Winter

Beautiful Spots To See Cherry Blossoms in Paris

12 Secrets Covered Passages In Paris

18+ Churches And Cathedrals In Paris w/ Hidden Gems

Most Beautiful Parks & Gardens In Paris

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Best Apps For Paris Travel: Paris Travel Guide App

✈ Best Travel Ressources To Plan Your Next Trip If you need help planning your next trip, don’t worry. I’ve got you covered! Here are my favourite websites and apps to plan a trip! ✈ How To Find Flights? My favourite website for booking flights is Skyscanner; it is a good comparator for finding the cheapest flights. Google Flight is also a good help when it comes to comparing flights. ✈ Where To Book Accommodations? The best sites to book accommodations are Booking.com or Expedia. They both allow you to collect points for a discount; it’s worth comparing the two as they often have different pricing for the same hotels. Another perk of Booking.com and Expedia is that you can sometimes get bundle deals for flights and accommodations, which can help you save a lot of money. ✈ Best Sites To Book Activities My go-to website when I need to book an activity is GetYourGuide when I can’t get a ticket directly on the website or if it’s easier to go through them. I always check if the price is the same, though, as the whole point is for it to be easier but not more expensive. You can also check out Klook if you need to book more than just activities and would like to get everything from the same website—(i.e. transport cards, car rental, hotel…). ✈ Other helpful travel resources – Radical Storage: If you need a place to keep your luggage for an extended period when you travel, I recommend using them. It was a great help when we needed a place to keep our luggage safely while we left the city for a few days. – TheTrainline : If you love to travel by train like me, then TheTrainline needs to be your go-to website for train travel in Europe. It is very reliant and easy to use. ————————————————————————————————————- Disclaimer: This resources box contains affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission if you book anything through my links at no additional cost. These links help me support the blog and generate more content. Happy travels!

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Theresa says

16/09/2019 at 13:29

France is on my list of places to re visit next year so these apps will deff help! I’m loving the Spotted by locals app. Had never heard of it before – (just downloaded it and I’m a bit guttered it goesn’t have cities in Australia as locations yet 🙁 ) oh well – for Paris it is!

12/10/2019 at 10:03

I’m sure Australian cities will come soon enough! I hope you enjoy your next trip to Paris!

Unicorn says

15/02/2020 at 02:28

Nice! I’m always on the lookout for good travel apps. They seem to change from city so it’s really handy to have a list of apps that locale-specific. Thanks! ☺️

22/02/2020 at 03:33

I’m heading to Paris in May and will definitely be downloading all of these apps before I go. La Fourchette sounds amazing! I always have a struggle picking restaurant while travelling, and this app will solve all my problems! Love it.

hollysbirdnest.com says

02/05/2020 at 00:08

On my list to visit…these apps will be very helpful!

josypheen says

09/05/2020 at 18:16

Oooh La Fourchette is very helpful. It is always great to find out about the apps that locals use! 😀

I already love City Mapper too…and now I need to find spotted by a local. That sounds like it could be useful anywhere in the world!

Zarina Rimbaud-Kadirbaks says

09/05/2020 at 22:28

These are such great tips, thanks for sharing! I especially like the last one, Spotted by locals, as I’m always eager to seek out less touristy places 🙂

10/05/2020 at 21:26

I have only been to Paris once (about 9 years ago) so will have to go back and use these apps one day! 🙂

millieandmommie says

18/05/2020 at 03:32

Paris is my favorite!

Chrissy K says

01/08/2020 at 20:25

Such a helpful post. Cannot wait to visit Paris again. Pinning so I know these apps when I return. Thanks for sharing!

Sophia Bawany says

01/08/2020 at 20:36

City Mapper was a lifesaver for us when we were there last year! I fell in love with the city so we will be going back again and again once travel opens up 🙂 We didnt use public transport the first time but RATP and The Fork will be on my phone soon and will be used religously. Thank you for the super helpful apps. Fingers crossed we can get back to this magical city soon!

AllyTravels says

01/08/2020 at 21:24

Downloading the RATP app now – I always get lost on the Metro in Paris!

shanyyizhaki says

02/08/2020 at 05:17

Such a great and helpful guide! The city mapper seems like a life saver app when visiting the city.

E-HEALTHONLINE says

12/09/2020 at 09:56

Waw nice briefing about the travel apps.Actually right we all are know about many apps for travel but sometime din’t get good app,but this article has good contents about that type of apps.Just i’ll say good info..nice

29/11/2020 at 03:45

Great apps! I’m not living/ planning a trip soon to Paris but I’m definitely going to look for similar apps in the US. Thanks for sharing this!

Ildiko says

30/11/2020 at 03:40

If things open up in the Spring, then Paris is on my list. Your app suggestions look great. Pinned. Thank you

Venaugh says

20/12/2020 at 05:12

Thanks for sharing such a great post! I think this is something people dont look up enough and it makes life so much easier. I love that so many of your suggestions cater for visitors to help figure out how to get around.

Sarah | Travel for a Living says

20/12/2020 at 14:35

Citymapper sure was my life saver whenever trying to navigate the Parisian metro system. It makes city trips just so easy. Never heard of the Forchette, but will check it out for my next Paris trip (as I find Tripadvisor a bit too sponsored nowadays)

Krista says

20/12/2020 at 18:10

I think the app I would most need is the English French translation app! The other ones sound very helpful too though.

tripscholars says

06/04/2021 at 00:00

I’m always dreaming of trip to Paris, so I’m pinning this for later! Thanks for doing the research so we can find the best apps in one place!

The Jetset Boyz says

28/04/2021 at 06:15

The Fork has partnered with several European airlines, so if you’re a member of their frequent flyer program you’ll earn points when making a reservation.

18/06/2023 at 04:06

I’m a big fan of travel apps. These all sound great for when I visit Paris again…especially The Fork and Spotted by Locals.

Sharyn says

25/06/2023 at 06:35

Thanks for the recommendations. I’ve just visited Paris and used a number of these apps – all super helpful and made my holiday easier and enjoyable.

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Best Travel Apps for Paris, France for a Stress-Free Trip

By Author Meg Frost

Posted on Last updated: November 19, 2023

Categories Europe , France , Travel Tech

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Ready to plan the French adventure of a lifetime? Or just passing through and need a few pointers on navigating the City of Lights?

Either way, do yourself a favor and get comfortable with some modern Parisian technology – we’re talking apps!

From finding your way around to deepening your knowledge of local culture, here are my top picks for must-have travel apps for Paris, France.

Airvat Tax Refund

If you’ve shopped til you dropped while in Paris, you’re definitely going to want the Airvat Tax Refund app.

This app will help you get back up to 20% refund of VAT tax paid on your purchases.

Use your refund to start saving for your next trip!

Download : App Store / Google Play

If you’re looking to take a ride around the City of Light, then you need AlloCab. 

This convenient app has made hailing a cab easier and faster than ever before without the need to stand outside and flag one down. 

Moreover, this is the highest-rated among all taxi services operating in Paris, so there’s no better choice when you want a smooth and stress-free experience. Make your way through Paris with the help of AlloCab – it won’t let you down!

For those looking to explore the many delicious options Paris has to offer, Deliveroo is the ultimate food delivery app. 

With over 10,000 restaurants at your fingertips, you can easily find something to satisfy everyone’s taste buds. 

The hard part is deciding where to order from! 

Restaurant menus range from traditional French cuisine to a variety of global flavors, allowing for an unforgettable and unique dining experience without leaving home. 

Whether you’re in the mood for something light or indulgent, Deliveroo is sure to have what you need with its unbeatable selection of restaurants. 

Disneyland Paris

Ah, Paris – the home of romance, art, culture and…Disneyland? 

That’s right – Disneyland Paris is the ultimate destination for fun-seekers looking to explore the city with a magical twist. 

Whether it’s scaling the iconic Space Mountain or enjoying a crêpe in Main Street USA, this European outpost of the world-famous theme park offers something for everyone. 

If you’ll be visiting Disneyland Paris, definitely download the app to help you get around the parks with ease, snag premier access, make dining reservations, or mobile order quick service food.

It’s always a good idea to learn a few key phrases in the local language of a travel destination. Not only will it help with communication over basic needs, it shows respect, too. 

My favorite French language learning app for beginners is Duolingo.

Duolingo makes learning French so ridiculously easy, not to mention fun! 

It combines short lessons with quizzes that incorporate speaking, reading, and writing skills. This method is proven to help boost retention of the skills you learn.  

Tip : Using the Duolingo app each day will help you earn “lingots,” which you can trade in for bonus skills, such as Flirting in French!

If you’re looking for the best restaurant experiences in Paris, you’re in luck – The Fork has you covered. 

This comprehensive app will help you find the perfect spot, whether you’re looking for a cozy bistro on a romantic night out or an exquisite fine dining establishment with breathtaking views of the Eiffel Tower. 

Not only can you search through thousands of user ratings and reviews but there’s also the added bonus of being able to book reservations.

It’s never been easier to enjoy all that Paris has to offer without waiting in long lines. 

Google Translate

While Duolingo can help you learn French, if you’re having trouble understanding French or encounter some words you don’t know, Google Translate can help. 

With more than 100 languages to choose from, it’s the perfect tool for deciphering language barriers while in Paris. 

Plus, you can use it to quickly read menus, signs, and articles so you can easily get around like a local. 

So if you’re in need of a pocket tutor or want to be proficient at conversing with locals, Google Translate is your go-to app when visiting Paris.

When exploring the city of love, Paris, France, Heetch is the perfect ride-sharing app to have in your back pocket. 

Minimize wait time at the curbside with their intuitive app and get to all your fabulous French destinations in a jiffy. 

With Heetch, you can navigate all those beautiful Parisian streets without the hassle of hiring a taxi or searching for public transportation options. 

So what are you waiting for? Download it now and kiss goodbye to complicated travel arrangements!

Bonjour RATP

Master public transportation in Paris with the Bonjour RATP app.

This easy-to-use app enables you to quickly determine how to get from point A to point B via metro, train or bus.

You can also look up schedules and check out the different types of passes and tickets to determine which one is right for you.

Lastly, it works offline (no wifi needed!) and can be used in 10 different languages.

Check out my post about how to use the Paris metro for more tips on getting around via public transportation.

Mobile Passport Control

Not looking forward to the line at customs but don’t have Global Entry? 

Get the Mobile Passport Control app to help expedite your wait in line when arriving back home in the US (and select airports in Canada).

Be sure to fill out your profile on the app ahead of time. Then while the plane is taxing to the gate, fill out the questionnaire and get your QR code. 

Once you get to customs, you’ll show your passport and the QR code in a specific (shorter) line.

The best part? It’s free!

Palace of Versailles

Paris is full of breathtaking sights, but there is none more impressive than the Château de Versailles, just outside the city limits. 

This storied palace in Versailles has been a source of awe and excitement to visitors for centuries, due to its grandiose design and magnificent gardens. 

Use the Palace of Versailles app to help explore this beautiful and historical landmark.

There are even audio guides and maps to help you get around with ease.

Paris Aéroport

If you’re looking to make your travels through CDG or Orly a breeze, look no further than the Paris Aéroport app. 

From real-time flight updates to terminal maps, this app will allow you to travel with ease.

Plus, if you’re local, you can reserve and pay for parking at the airport, too.

Paris museum guide apps

Get ready to explore some of Paris’ finest cultural gems!

Learn more about all the amazing art you see with guides to Paris’ top 4 art museums: the Louvre, Musée de l’Orangerie, Musée d’Orsay, and Musée Rodin.

Each app includes maps, guides, and audio tours. If you have an iOS device, such as the iPhone, you can purchase the apps in a bundle for a slight discount.

Secrets de Paris

Paris is a city that has many hidden gems to explore, and with the best apps for Paris, you can unlock all of the city’s secrets. 

From centuries-old monuments to vibrant local markets, there’s something for everyone in the City of Lights. 

With just a few taps and swipes on your phone, you can quickly find where to go and what to do as you make your way through the city. 

Uncover hidden delights that only a Paris native would know about and discover the charm hidden inside every corner of this amazing city.

SNCF Connect

When visiting the City of Lights, don’t be left in the dark when it comes to your train travel. 

SNCF Connect is the perfect app for Paris-bound travelers looking to purchase and validate train tickets across Europe. 

With a few simple clicks and swipes, your journey will be planned in no time and you’ll be ready to see what amazing attractions await you in Paris. 

This app is one of the best picks on any list of apps for travelers journeying to or from Paris.

Toilets in Paris

You gotta go when you gotta go!

It can be difficult to find a nice place to “take care of business” while traveling through the streets of Paris, but worry not! 

With the help of the Toilets in Paris app, you’ll never have to worry about getting stuck in an unsightly situation on your sightseeing tour again. 

Vélib’

For those who want to explore Paris in a unique and environmentally friendly way, Vélib’ is the perfect choice. 

This public bicycle sharing system allows you to swiftly pedal through the city’s winding streets without worrying about bulky travel equipment or rental costs. 

You can even customize your journey by selecting from long-term, annual, and daily memberships, all of which provide access to an extensive range of bikes for an incredibly affordable price point. 

So forget sluggish buses and overpriced taxi fares – with Vélib’, you’ll be immersing yourself in Paris’ attractions more quickly than ever before!

XE Currency

If you’re looking to explore Paris, France without breaking the bank, then XE Currency is the app for you! 

It offers up-to-date currency conversion rates, so you can easily figure out how many dollars that croissant is costing you in euros. 

You can even set up rate alerts and historical charts so you can keep an eye on when is the best time to convert your money. 

What’s on your list of the best apps for Paris, France?

It seems apps truly are the answer to making the best of a new city! 

Now that you have the list of apps to make the most of Paris, it’s time to plan the rest of your trip with these posts: 

• 100+ Fun Things to Do in Paris, France
• 10 Fun Tours in Paris, France
• 10 Romantic Things to Do in Paris, France
• Top 15 New Orleans Travel Tips for A Good Time
• Best Travel Journal Apps for Journaling on the Go

But before you go, be sure to let me know what your favorite apps for Paris are in the comments below.

About the author

Meg Frost is a Boston-based travel blogger that helps people embrace technology to make vacation planning and traveling wicked easy, affordable, and fun.

She holds an M.A. in Journalism from Northeastern University and B.S. in Communication & American Studies from University of Miami.

Read more →

This post was originally published on February 16, 2017. It was last updated April 5, 2023.

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The Most Romantic Things to Do in Paris, France in 2023

Wednesday 5th of April 2023

[…] The Best Travel Apps for Paris, France […]

10 Super Fun Tours in Paris, France to Book in 2023

A Complete Guide on How to Use the Paris Metro

16 Free Apps to Download to Make Your Trip in Paris Easier

Does your smartphone never leave your side? Good! Today, there is an app for almost everything. If you’re scared that you won’t be able to make it on your own in the capital city, we have selected 10 apps to download to make your trip in Paris easier.

Related: Of course, for your smartphone to work, you must have a SIM card. To know which SIM card to use when you’re in France, check this article .

1) Moovit – Free

As beautiful as it can be, the French capital can be a real maze for those who are not used to using its transportation network. You will never get lost again thanks to Moovit, the ultimate public transportation application. It’s the world’s most downloaded transportation application, so that just shows how well it works! Its interactive map system, and its very simple and intuitive use, has already pleased 120 million users. Whatever means of transportation you use, this app gives you the real time situation on your bus, metro, RER… You tend to fall asleep on the Metro? No worries, Moovit will wake you up right before you arrive at your station. You are looking for a vélib’? Don’t worry, Moovit will take care of it in less than a split second. What is the best route to get to your destination as soon as possible? This app will find it in no time. A must-have or else you’ll be missing out.

Links: To download the app on iPhone, click here .

To download the app on Android, click here .

2) SNCF – Free

The SNCF app will help with public transport.

Train times and information are given instantly. So you can check departures or search for an itinerary very quickly. But you can also search for an itinerary for a specific date.

The app is customizable. For instance, when you are near a train station, you can choose which types of trains to display, and also filter which trains are shown depending on your stop.

Links: To download the app on iPhone, click here . To download the app on Android, click here . To download the app on Windows Phone, click here .

3) Map of Paris offline – Free

Without wi-fi, it is sometimes hard to find your way in Paris. If you don’t want to carry a physical map of Paris and look like an old-fashioned explorer, the best option is to download the “Map of Paris offline” app. This map is highly detailed so it can be displayed and easily read on both smartphones and tablets. The different available maps track you, and it is even possible to look up street names and directions in offline mode, which is really convenient. And if you feel desperately lost and in dire straits, no worries, you can send your GPS coordinates through text messages and other services.

To download the app, click here .

4) CityMapper – Free

This app is also related to transport in Paris and the suburbs. Every means of transport is available: trains, subway, bus, bike, taxi, Uber, walk…

You can compare different itinerary suggestions, all means of transport included, with information updated in real-time. So you will be informed of possible disturbances and new itineraries which might be set up. To allow you to take the subway “like a pro”, Citymapper shows you the exits and where to place yourself in the subway to optimize your journey. The map of Paris subway is also available offline so you can find your way even if you don’t have data or access to the internet.

What makes this app great is that it’s not only for Paris. you can also use it in other cities such as London, New York, Los Angeles, and so much more.

Links: To download the app on iPhone, click here . To download the app on Android, click here .

5) MAPS.ME – Free

Maps.me is a very useful app. It gives you access to a map and detailed itineraries if you’re looking for directions.

But the upside of this app is that it is completely offline. Indeed, you don’t need the internet, you can use it wherever and whenever you want… as long as your smartphone is charged!

6) TripAdvisor – Free

“Know better. Book better. Go better.”

The TripAdvisor app allows you to check the travelers’ reviews of the hotels, restaurants, and other things to do. Then you can leave your own review to help other people.

“Near Me Now” shows you the things to do near your location. You can also ask questions and receive answers from other travelers or the owners of the different establishments.

TripAdvisor is worldwide. So you can use it on all your trips!

7) TheFork – Free

Looking for a restaurant? You will have a lot of options with TheFork. You’ll just have to choose depending on what you want!

This app allows you to book a table in a restaurant without having to call beforehand. Indeed, availability is given in real-time. You can also get exclusive offers of up to 50% off your meal. For each booking, you will receive 100 Yums. If you get 1,000 Yums, you will receive a 10€ discount in a partner restaurant.

If you don’t know where to eat, TheFork makes restaurant suggestions. And if you hesitate, just check the reviews left by other users.

You will be able to use TheFork in many cities in France, and some cities of the world.

8) Google Translate – Free

Let’s be honest, when we travel, we often face the language barrier. Not understanding instructions or written indications in a foreign language can lead to embarrassing, even dangerous, situations. Thankfully, we do live in an era where technology can help us break this barrier. With the Google Translate app, in addition to being able to type text in to have it translated instantly in offline mode in 59 languages, it is now possible to take a picture and having it translated in two clicks! This app has improved a lot lately, and translations are more and more accurate, especially between French and English. A must-have for every traveler.

Links : To download the app on iPhone, click here .

9) AllBikesNow – Free

If you would prefer to take a bike to visit the capital city, this app will help you. It will let you know where to find a bike (from the self-service bike system) near you or near an address given, where to return it, and give in information on your favorite stations.

This app works with Vélib’, Paris’ self-service bike system. But you can also use it in other cities such as Lyon, Marseille, or Toulouse. Some international cities are also available.

10) Taxi G7 – Free

No need to look for a taxi, the Taxi G7 app lets you order one from your smartphone.

Besides ordering a ride quickly to leave as soon as possible, this app allows you to book a ride up to 14 days in advance! Different levels of services are available and you can choose the one you want when you order your ride.

Payment can be made via the app or with the driver.

11) Uber – Free

Uber allows you to order a car with a driver whenever you want, 24/7.

So you won’t have to worry about train times or finding a parking spot. In a few minutes, you will have ordered a ride. On the app, you will get a picture of your driver and all the information you need.

Several choices are available: uberX is for a ride where you’re the only customer, whereas, with uberPOOL, you share a ride with other people going in the same direction as you. The latter costs less.

12) Tricount – Free

Planning on visiting Paris with your friends? What a great idea – there’s no better city to have group fun. But it is always a mess when it comes to paying bills. Since short reckonings make long friends, the Tricount app allows to set your spending up and split it within the group, as you wish and according to your own criteria. A sync system instantly shares the accounts status, and the “balance” option allows you to see how much everyone owes each another. Nothing now could hinder your trip to Paris, so don’t hesitate to download this app a bit ahead of your trip to make sure everything is organized your way.

13) Secrets de Paris – Free

The Secrets de Paris app is like a tour guide that allows you to discover the city in a new light. Each day, the apps suggest something original to do!

Secrets de Paris will make you discover the City of Light in a unique way! Indeed, very touristic activities aren’t suggested. But you can discover the wonders that make Paris one of the most beautiful cities in the world. Come and visit the unusual places of the capital city!

Add the locations you like to your ‘favourites’ to find them again easily. You can also check the distance between your location and the place you picked.

14) The Tourist In Paris – Free

In need of a helping hand to enjoy your trip to Paris as much as possible? This app is made for you. The Tourist in Paris app gives you advice on the best deals, the absolute places to see, and the low-key addresses well known to Parisians that unaware tourists will surely miss. This app’s promise is to put you in a Parisian’s shoes, and to get you off the beaten tracks of overrated and overcrowded tourist spots. There isn’t, you know, just the Eiffel Tower to see in our beautiful city! This is a customizable app that will match your daily mood thanks to its “What’s your mood today?” section, and will give you activities to do that fit your wants and your state of mind.

15) Powize – Free

Visiting Paris often means being outside all day so not having access to a charger. And if you use your smartphone to help you with your activities, the battery might run low sooner than expected.

Powize allows you to locate public spaces where you can charge your phone. The app tells you the distance between you and the place, the opening hours, and the types of charging cables available. Users can leave a review of the place.

With Powize, you will never be out of battery when you need it the most.

16) WiFi Finder – Free

Many interesting apps to discover Paris require an internet connection, and so do you if you simply want to browse the web when resting between visits. Wifi Finder is an app that allows you to download a map of wifi hotspots near you, wherever you are, that even works offline thanks to its extremely complete database. The perfect tool to easily connect with the rest of the world.

I aim to share my tips and recommendations for the beautiful country of France. My goal is to help you plan your next adventure, whether it’s a weekend getaway or a once-in-a-lifetime trip. From finding the best hotels and restaurants, to discovering unique activities and sights, I’ve got you covered!

Related posts

Paris Travel Guide and Map 12+

Trip planner, offline city map, kulemba gmbh, designed for ipad.

• 4.7 • 342 Ratings

Screenshots

Description.

Offline Maps and much more! Discover new places and insider tips. Collect, save and organize them as you like. And have the best trip ever! With us, traveling got easier and even more fun. Here’s what you get – the shortest possible version: • Free offline maps – no roaming, no hustle • Insider tips and places to discover • Multifunctional lists to plan and organize your trip We let you discover new places, beautiful spots and insider tips at the touch of a button. Collect your personal best-of and save it for later. You will experience your best journeys yet with detailed offline maps and in-depth travel content on your mobile travel companion. And here’s why 5+ million travelers love our apps: CLEAR AND CONCISE MAPS Never get lost again. See your location on the map via GPS, no internet connection is required. Find streets, addresses or attractions and get pointed in the walking direction. IN-DEPTH TRAVEL CONTENT You’ll never have to buy another guide book. Our Guides features pictures as well as comprehensive and up-to-date information is available for thousands of places and attractions. SEARCH AND DISCOVER Search a specific place by name or browse by categories like restaurants, architecture, hotels, shops, bars, etc. PLAN TRIPS AND CUSTOMIZE MAPS Book the hotel for your next city tour right within the app. Remember and save all the places you would like to visit. Create new or individual ones. Mark them with different colors or add notes to them. SAVE ROAMING FEES Maps and guide content are stored on directly your device so you can access them at any time even without an internet connection. An internet connection is of course required for initial downloading of data or booking hotels. BACKUP AND SYNC Create a user account and login from any of your iOS devices. So all your personal content is right where you want it to be.

Version 21.0

We added "Sign in with Apple" as authentication method and fixed some bugs!

Ratings and Reviews

342 Ratings

Highly recommended!

If you are going to visit Paris (and surrounding areas) then you need this app! So basically, you get a map that looks a lot like Google Maps. It's complete with locations, road names, and even the entire metro system which was extremely useful for me! You are also able to create a "list" of restaurants, attractions, custom locations, etc, and save it all so that you know exactly where you're going in advanced. My ONLY problem with this app is that it won't show you turn by turn directions which shouldn't be an issue if you're good with directions. It also gives you recommendations of places to check out based on categories you can choose from like night clubs, shopping, the best food, and stuff like that. All in all, I heavily relied on this app during my week in Paris (It was literally my bible) and I couldn't have been happier with how it turned out. It didn't drain my battery either! Thank you to the creators, I truly love this app. PS: if you ever get lost, your smart phone should still show your gps location on the maps app even without service. It should be easy to use this app once you find yourself. Also, the metros will take you to almost every landmark in Paris with minimal walking so I'd invest in a "carnet" of 10 tickets at the metro.

Paris Lifeline

This app is AMAZING!!! We used it the entire time we were in Paris since it gave me real-time gps walking/navigation location so I could figure out directions - offline. Seriously, this app was a LIFE SAVER! We intended on using the Metro during most of our stay, which this app also give “closest metro stops” to sites, however with the strikes going on we basically walked the city. We couldn’t have done it without the help of this app. Before our trip I downloaded it & starred/saved all our points of interest we planned on visiting. While we were in Paris, I remained offline -didn’t use my data - and this app was still able to locate me on the map. Thank you for this app!!

Great for Identifying Places to Visit

I started using this app to locate restaurants I wanted to try while on vacation. Then I added historic places. Then I added museums, chocolate shops, etc. Then I realized I could add notes to all these places. All of these are found on a the map by icon. And are also identified in different lists that I've named so it means something to me. Now my map looks like a myriad of different icons and colors and I've got about 7 different lists. A fabulous app to make sure you at least try to see everything you want to see and experience.

App Privacy

The developer, Kulemba GmbH , indicated that the app’s privacy practices may include handling of data as described below. For more information, see the developer’s privacy policy .

Data Linked to You

The following data may be collected and linked to your identity:

• Contact Info
• Identifiers

Data Not Linked to You

The following data may be collected but it is not linked to your identity:

• Diagnostics

Privacy practices may vary, for example, based on the features you use or your age. Learn More

Information

English, French, German, Italian, Simplified Chinese, Spanish

• Developer Website
• App Support
• Privacy Policy

More By This Developer

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The ten most useful Paris apps

Get around the city with the help of Time Out’s ten handiest Paris apps

Apps have transformed the way people explore their cities, and Paris is no exception. Whether you’re stuck for directions, in desperate need of a drink, a wee or simply feel like going roller-skating with strangers, there really is an app for your every want and need. Check out Time Out’s pick of the ten best Paris apps below. Think we’ve missed a great app? Let us know in the comments box below.

An email you’ll actually love

Où Faire Pipi à Paris?

The free, self-cleaning Sanisette toilets are ubiquitous in Paris (the 420 cubicles are apparently used over three million times a year), but all too often you’ll find these generic metallic boxes are ‘in use’ or simply out of service. That’s where the app Où Faire Pipi À Paris (‘Where to Pee in Paris’) comes in handy, guiding you towards other free-to-use public toilets located in all types of public spaces EXCEPT along the major boulevards. From parks and libraries to hospitals and cemeteries, this app gives you a good excuse to pop in somewhere you’d never normally think of visiting.

How does it work? It’s only available in French, but is still easy to use for non-native speakers. On the home page, choose between the list of ‘All Toilets’ and the ‘Map of Paris’. Once on the map, click on a specific arrondissement to investigate the various loos in your vicinity. For each one, the app-makers include information on the building and opening times.

Availability: €0.99 on iOS

MisterGoodBeer

A good match for the Where to Pee in Paris app, Mister Good Beer offers an exceptional selection of bars serving pints at €6 or less. Such places are few and far between nowadays, but this app has successfully rooted out the best of those that do. Prices are helpfully specified for each location, including varying costs for drinking inside/outside and at happy hours.

How does it work? The app interface is built around a map of the city, with little circles hovering above pubs/bars that serve cheap beer (the numbers in the circles represent the cheapest pints available). You can refine your search according to location, price (between €0-€6) and timings. Tap on one of the bars, and you’ll be taken to a page specifying the name, address and drinks prices. By creating an account, you can also add your own address recommendations. 

Availability: Free on iOS and Android

RandoRoller

Roller-skating is a surprisingly popular means of getting to work or school in Paris. It’s also a great excuse for a bit of a workout or a fun get-together , or even both at once. That’s the idea behind the app RandoRoller, which will inform you in real time of various such events taking place around Paris and elsewhere in the Île-de-France region. Should you ever you feel the need to put your childhood skates or wheelies back in action, this is the app for you.

How does it work? The free ‘lite’ version will inform of you of the most imminently scheduled circuit, offering start and finish times, a route map, length, weather info and mid-way stop details. Your phone’s in-built geolocation service will also allow you to situate yourself with respect to the circuit outline. Extras with the full version include a complete and constantly updated agenda for the forthcoming year and the possibility of transferring event data over into your calendar, as well as connecting the app to Facebook and locating nearby water points, toilets and roller-skating shops.

Availability: Full version €1.99 (or ‘lite’ for free) on iOS

The Citymapper app is a godsend in any city, and particularly in Paris, where the sheer density of labyrinthine passages and lookalike streets can be overwhelming for the visitor. Comparing available routes across a wide variety of transports (bus, metro, RER, Vélib, taxi, tram, train), the app offers plenty of practical functions you don’t get on most itinerary planners, like practical alerts on approaching climbs and dips on bus routes, a map that works offline and a calorie loss calculator (converted, if you wish, into quantities of sugary food). It even enables you to find out how many bikes are free at the nearest Vélib dock. 

How does it work? From the welcome page, tap on ‘Where are you going?’ and type in where you’re headed. The app will then work out a suitable route according to your current position, but you can also choose an alternative starting point. After your destination has been registered, a map will then pop up with a proposed itinerary – choose your mode of transport and the route details will appear.

Peerby is the ultimate app for those who appreciate any excuse to help out a neighbour, or for anyone in desperate need of a particular tool or object. Riding the wave of new apps that promote and enact the sharing economy , Peerby allows app users to list things they need to borrow, while others nearby receive notifications of such requests and (depending on their availability and kindness of heart) respond with offers. Flicking down the recent activity in the Belleville area, you can observe hoovers, bikes, printer installation CDs, waffle makers and tents being exchanged between residents.

How does it work? Download the app and sign up with details of where you live or are currently staying in the city. A ‘quartier’ page will then pop up with a list of the recent activity in your area (fascinating for nosey types), also allowing you to respond to any unanswered requests with a no, maybe or yes. If you’re looking for something yourself, click on ‘request’ at the bottom and choose among a number of commonly requested items or type in your own.

Our very own Time Out Paris app offers the reviews and previews from the website, but hand-picked and reformatted for mobile. Concerts, exhibitions, bars, restaurants and club nights are all listed, and you can browse a ‘most read’ section to see what’s getting the most attention right now. You can sign in to comment or 'heart' articles to revisit later, meaning this is a great tool for organising days out in the city.

How does it work? Our editors’ selection of the best things to do in Paris this week is highlighted on the home page, plus popular bar and restaurant recommendations. Hit the search button in the top right corner to explore ‘what’ (art, film, restaurants, bars), ‘when’ (today, tomorrow, this week, this month) and ‘where’ (arrondissement). The drop-down menu on the left allows access to the ‘most read’ section and 'things I love’ (add to this section by tapping on the heart on each article). Plus, the same app can switch to London, New York and other Time Out cities.

Superb language-learning platform/app Duolingo provides a great way of whiling away any idle minutes or hours you may have while travelling on the metro or sitting at a café. French is one of 23 languages available, and the app is exceptionally thorough (it covers vocabulary, phrases and basic grammar). Almost teacher-like in its insistence, it automatically figures out your weak spots and keeps on testing you in these areas until you improve.

How does it work? Sign up for an account on the app or online (or log in via Facebook), then follow the instructions on screen.

Paris Pastry

Someone in Paris was always going to come up with a patisserie -finding app, and dessert chef/expert David Lebovitz has done a pretty decent job with Paris Pastry. Patisseries  are everywhere in the French capital, so locating the most outstanding in any given arrondissement or the most skilled at baking any particular item (say, almond croissants) can be a daunting task. This app enables you to filter through the best of the 1200 Parisian patisseries, sorting them by speciality, district and quality.


How does it work? On the full version, shops are listed by speciality, arrondissement, ‘David’s Top 25’ or your ‘favourites’. Click on each listing for addresses, nearest metro stations, an in-depth description of the available pastries, photos, opening times, maps and links. On the ‘lite’ version, you only have access to ‘David’s Top 25’.

Availability: Full version €3.99 (or ‘lite’ for free) on iOS

Marchés de Paris

Every Paris arrondissement has its own market (on top of the brilliant big name ones), which are always charming spots of local colour and sources of interesting goods. Reliably finding their opening times and locations can be a drag, though, and this app helpfully brings all available information into one place, as well as categorising the markets by types of produce.

How does it work? Built around a city map with little circles hovering above 85 different market locations, you can also add metro stations, bus stops and Vélib docks to the map in order to help work out your way there. Along the bottom, there’s a search function allowing you to sift through the market listings by days open, type of market and location, your ‘favourites’, plus a handy list of in-season fruit and veg.

Paris Avant

This clever little app offers a ‘history of the city in photos’, with a catalogue spanning over 2000 locations in the capital taken over a period of 100 years (with a new location added every day). The most amusing feature involves superimposing historical images on footage from your own camera, allowing users to investigate and analyse the evolution of Parisian architecture themselves (or simply play spot the difference).

How does it work? On the home page, turn on ‘notifications’ if you wish the app to guide you to the nearest location it has in its log. Alternatively, click on ‘repérer’ in order to search for specific places, use the map function, see nearby locations/images or use the augmented reality feature to compare and contrast old and new Paris.

Availability: €1.99 on iOS and Android

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Best Paris Travel Apps : The Best App Guide to Navigating Paris

Sarah waqas.

• October 19, 2023
• No Comments

Navigating Paris with the Best Apps: Your Ultimate Travel Guide

Are you planning a trip to the City of Lights and wondering how to navigate its charming streets and the extensive Paris Metro system? Paris is a city with an unparalleled blend of history, culture, and modernity, and getting around efficiently is key to fully enjoying your visit. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the best apps and tools to help you navigate Paris like a local. Whether you’re visiting Paris for the first time or looking to enhance your experience, this article will provide you with all the information you need to make the most of your trip.

Table of Contents

Why You Should Read This Article

Before we delve into the detailed guide, let’s highlight why you should read this article and what valuable insights you can expect to gain:

• Efficient Metro Navigation: Paris is famous for its intricate Metro system, and we’ll show you how to navigate it seamlessly, ensuring you reach all the top attractions, such as the Eiffel Tower, with ease.
• The Best Travel Apps: Discover the best apps for traveling in Paris, including Citymapper, Google Maps, and language learning apps to enhance your experience and communication.
• Local Expertise: Our guide combines local insights and expert recommendations to help you explore the streets of Paris confidently and enjoy the city to the fullest.

Best Apps For Your Trip To Paris

Let’s explore the detailed information and tips for navigating Paris efficiently and experiencing the best the city has to offer.

1. The Paris Metro: Your Ticket to Exploring the City

Paris is a city best explored by its efficient Metro system. With its extensive network of lines, the Metro can take you to most major attractions in the city. To make the most of your Paris trip, it’s essential to understand how to use the Metro efficiently.

Best Travel Apps For Europe

How to use the Paris Metro efficiently:

When navigating the Paris Metro, it’s crucial to understand the different lines, their destinations, and transfer points. The Metro system consists of 16 lines, each color-coded, making it relatively easy to understand.

• Line 1: Yellow
• Line 2: Blue
• Line 4: Fuchsia
• Line 6: Pale green
• Line 9: Olive green
• Line 12: Dark green

It’s also helpful to know that the Paris Metro typically operates from 5:30 AM to 1:15 AM the following day. However, schedules may vary on weekends and holidays, so it’s a good idea to check the exact schedule during your stay.

Tips for choosing the right tickets and passes:

The Paris Metro offers various ticket options, including single tickets, packs of tickets, and multi-day passes. To make the right choice, consider the duration of your stay and how frequently you plan to use public transportation. For tourists, the Paris Visite card is an excellent option as it offers unlimited travel on public transportation in Paris and its suburbs.

Navigating the Metro map and stations:

Understanding the Metro map is essential for navigating Paris with ease. Metro maps are widely available, both in print and online. Additionally, you can use smartphone apps like Google Maps or Citymapper, which provide real-time information on Metro lines, schedules, and nearby stations.

In the next section, we’ll explore the best apps for Paris travel, including those that can assist you in navigating the Metro.

2. Top Apps for Paris Travel

Navigating Paris efficiently and experiencing all it has to offer becomes a breeze with the right apps. Let’s delve into the best apps that every traveler should have on their smartphone when visiting the City of Lights.

Why you need travel apps in Paris:

Travel apps are invaluable tools that can enhance your experience in Paris. They offer features like real-time navigation, offline maps, and local insights that can make your trip smoother and more enjoyable.

Must-have apps for tourists:

When visiting Paris, some apps are essential for tourists:

• Citymapper: An all-in-one navigation app that provides real-time information on public transportation, including the Paris Metro, buses, and trams.
• Google Maps: A widely used mapping and navigation app that helps you find your way around the city, locate nearby attractions, and get directions.
• Language learning apps: Apps like Duolingo or Babbel can help you pick up some basic French phrases to communicate with locals.

How to download and use them:

Downloading these apps is easy. Simply go to your app store, search for the app by name, and tap “Download.” Most of these apps are available for free, and you can start using them right away.

In the following sections, we’ll explore each of these apps in more detail, offering tips on how to make the most of their features.

3. Language Learning Apps: Communicate Like a Parisian

While many people in Paris speak English, making an effort to learn a few basic French phrases can significantly enhance your experience. In this section, we’ll discuss the importance of learning some French and introduce you to the best language learning apps for your Paris trip.

The importance of learning a few French words:

Learning a few basic French phrases shows respect for the local culture and can be incredibly useful when navigating the city. It can also make your interactions with locals more pleasant and enjoyable.

Top language learning apps for your trip:

There are several language learning apps available, but some of the top choices for learning French include:

• Duolingo: A popular language learning app that offers interactive lessons in various languages, including French.
• Babbel: Known for its practical approach to language learning, Babbel provides lessons that are designed for real-life conversations.
• Rosetta Stone: Renowned for its language learning programs, Rosetta Stone offers French courses that focus on pronunciation and conversation skills.

How to use language apps effectively:

To get the most out of language learning apps, it’s important to practice regularly. Spend a few minutes each day on lessons and exercises. Additionally, try to apply what you’ve learned in real-life situations while in Paris. Locals will appreciate your effort to speak their language.

In the next section, we’ll explore Google Translate, a valuable tool for bridging language barriers in Paris.

4. Google Translate: Your Language Companion

Paris is a city that welcomes visitors from all around the world, and while many people speak English, there may be instances where language becomes a barrier. Google Translate is an invaluable tool for overcoming these challenges.

How to use Google Translate effectively:

Google Translate allows you to translate text, speech, and even images. Here’s how to make the most of it:

• Text Translation: Type or paste text, or use the camera to scan text in real-time. Google Translate will provide translations in your preferred language.
• Speech Translation: Speak or play audio in one language, and Google Translate will convert it to your chosen language.
• Offline Translation: Download language packs for offline use, which can be incredibly useful if you find yourself without an internet connection.

Using Google Translate can help you with everything from reading menus at local restaurants to asking for directions on the street. It’s a versatile tool that can save the day in various situations.

In the following section, we’ll explore Citymapper, an app that can be a game-changer for navigating the streets of Paris.

5. Citymapper: Your Ultimate Travel Guide

Citymapper is a must-have app for anyone exploring Paris. It’s a comprehensive navigation tool that offers real-time information on various modes of transportation, helping you get around the city efficiently.

What is Citymapper and how does it work:

Citymapper is a user-friendly app that provides you with all the information you need for getting around Paris. It covers various modes of transportation, including the Metro, buses, trams, and even Uber. Citymapper offers real-time updates on routes, schedules, and estimated arrival times, ensuring you stay on track throughout your journey.

Features that make Citymapper unique:

Citymapper stands out because of its in-depth navigation features:

• Real-time Data: Citymapper provides real-time information on transit options, ensuring you’re always up-to-date.
• Multi-modal Planning: The app offers multiple ways to reach your destination, allowing you to choose the most convenient route.
• Crowdsourced Updates: Users can contribute information about transit issues, delays, and more, making the app incredibly accurate.

Tips and tricks for navigating Paris with Citymapper:

• Input your destination, and Citymapper will present you with multiple route options. Compare them to find the one that suits your needs best.
• Enable notifications to receive real-time updates on your chosen route, including delays or changes.
• The app also provides information on walking, cycling, and scooter options, making it a versatile tool for getting around the city.

In the next section, we’ll explore public transportation beyond the Metro, including buses and trams, and introduce you to the RATP app.

6. Public Transportation Beyond the Metro

While the Paris Metro is an excellent way to explore the city, buses and trams are also convenient options, particularly for reaching places the Metro doesn’t cover. In this section, we’ll delve into these additional modes of public transportation and introduce you to the RATP app, which is the official app for public transportation in Paris.

Exploring Paris by bus and tram:

Paris boasts a comprehensive network of buses and trams that cover areas not reached by the Metro. Buses are a great way to explore different neighborhoods, while trams are a convenient mode of transport in the suburbs.

RATP: The official app for public transportation:

RATP (Régie Autonome des Transports Parisiens) is the official organization that manages public transportation in Paris. The RATP app provides real-time information on bus and tram schedules, as well as information on Metro lines. It’s a valuable tool for planning your journey and ensuring you don’t miss your ride.

How to use public transport effectively:

When using buses and trams, it’s important to understand the routes and schedules. The RATP app is incredibly useful for this, as it provides real-time information, making it easy to plan your journeys and avoid long waiting times.

In the following section, we’ll explore the importance of offline maps and introduce apps that offer offline navigation, ensuring you never get lost, even without an internet connection.

7. Exploring Paris Offline

Exploring Paris without internet access can be challenging, but with the right apps, it’s entirely possible. In this section, we’ll discuss the importance of offline maps and introduce you to apps that offer offline navigation.

The importance of offline maps:

Paris is a city full of winding streets and hidden gems, making it easy to get lost. When you’re offline, having access to offline maps can be a lifesaver. They ensure you can always find your way back to your accommodation or your next attraction.

Apps that offer offline navigation:

Some of the best apps for offline navigation in Paris include:

• Google Maps: You can download maps for offline use, allowing you to navigate the city without an internet connection.
• HERE WeGo: An app that offers detailed offline maps for most major cities, including Paris.
• Maps.me: A user-friendly app that provides free, detailed offline maps.

How to use offline maps effectively:

Before your trip, download the maps of Paris or the areas you plan to explore in each of these apps. Ensure that you update them regularly to have access to the latest information. When you’re in Paris and offline, simply open the app and use it as you would with an internet connection.

In the next section, we’ll discuss the importance of planning your Paris itinerary and introduce you to the best apps for creating a well-organized schedule.

8. Planning Your Paris Itinerary

A well-planned itinerary is essential for making the most of your Paris trip. In this section, we’ll explore the best apps for creating a detailed schedule and provide tips on how to maximize your time.

The best apps for creating your Paris itinerary:

When it comes to planning your Paris itinerary, these apps are your best friends:

• TripIt: An app that allows you to organize all your travel plans in one place, from flights and accommodations to activities and reservations.
• Sygic Travel: Sygic Travel is a comprehensive trip planner that provides detailed itineraries, including maps, route planning, and personalized suggestions.
• Google Trips: Google Trips offers a user-friendly interface for organizing your travel plans, including reservations and itineraries.

Booking attractions in advance:

For popular tourist destinations like the Louvre, Eiffel Tower, and Palace of Versailles, it’s wise to book tickets in advance. Many attractions offer online booking options, allowing you to skip the long lines and make the most of your time.

How to maximize your time with a well-planned itinerary:

A well-structured itinerary ensures you don’t miss out on any of the city’s top attractions. Plan your days strategically, grouping attractions by location to minimize travel time. Additionally, consider using navigation apps like Citymapper to help you get from point A to point B efficiently.

In the next section, we’ll explore how to enjoy Paris like a local by using apps that connect you with authentic experiences.

9. Enjoying Paris Like a Local

While the major tourist attractions are a must-see in Paris, there’s a whole local side of the city to explore. In this section, we’ll introduce you to apps that connect you with authentic Parisian experiences.

Apps that connect you with local experiences:

• Eatwith: This app allows you to book meals with local hosts, giving you a chance to savor traditional homemade dishes and connect with Parisians.
• Withlocals: Withlocals offers unique and personalized experiences hosted by locals, such as guided tours, cooking classes, and market visits.
• Paris by Mouth: A food-focused app that guides you to the best local restaurants, bakeries, and markets in Paris.

How to book a table at popular Parisian restaurants:

Popular restaurants in Paris can get busy, so it’s a good idea to book a table in advance. Many restaurants have websites or partner with reservation platforms like OpenTable, making it easy to secure your spot.

Insider tips for experiencing Paris beyond the tourist attractions:

To truly experience the local culture, consider exploring neighborhoods like Le Marais, Montmartre, and Canal Saint-Martin. These areas are rich in history, art, and local life. Additionally, don’t hesitate to strike up conversations with Parisians, whether it’s at a café or while browsing a local market. Engaging with locals can lead to unforgettable experiences and a deeper connection with the city.

Finally, in the last section, we’ll provide a summary of the most important things to remember from this guide, ensuring you’re well-prepared for your next Paris trip.

10. Summary and Quick Tips

In summary, here are the key takeaways from this comprehensive guide to navigating Paris with the best apps:

• Efficient Metro Navigation: Understand the Paris Metro system, choose the right tickets and passes, and use navigation apps like Citymapper and Google Maps for seamless transportation.
• Top Apps for Paris Travel: Download essential travel apps like Citymapper, Google Maps, and language learning apps to enhance your experience.
• Language Learning Apps: Learn a few basic French phrases to improve communication with locals and immerse yourself in the culture.
• Google Translate: Use Google Translate for language assistance, and don’t forget to download language packs for offline use.
• Citymapper: Maximize your navigation capabilities with Citymapper, a versatile app that covers all aspects of public transportation.
• Public Transportation Beyond the Metro: Explore Paris by bus and tram, and use the RATP app to stay informed about schedules and routes.
• Exploring Paris Offline: Download offline maps for navigation without an internet connection, and use apps like Google Maps, HERE WeGo, and Maps.me.
• Planning Your Paris Itinerary: Create a well-organized itinerary with apps like TripIt, Sygic Travel, and Google Trips, and book attractions in advance.
• Enjoying Paris Like a Local: Connect with local experiences through apps like Eatwith, Withlocals, and Paris by Mouth, and explore neighborhoods beyond the tourist hotspots.

Remember to make the most of your trip, explore the streets of Paris, and immerse yourself in the culture of the City of Lights. Paris offers a world of wonder waiting to be discovered, and with the right apps, your journey will be unforgettable. Bon voyage!

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I am Sarah Waqas. I’m a professional content creator with a passion for writing travel blogs. I enjoy researching and writing about new places to visit.  My goal is to always provide my readers with the most accurate and up-to-date information possible. I also enjoy interacting with my readers and hearing their feedback.

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10 free apps for planning the perfect trip to Paris

Year on year, the availability of free Wi-Fi across Paris has been growing and growing. Many parks offer it, as do a large number of cafés and some public spaces like the Centre Pompidou – this, of course, makes access to the all-knowing internet that much easier for a traveler. Admittedly, not everyone is on board with the technological revolution and some still prefer exploring cities without turning to their screens at every corner. Nevertheless, if you’re travelling with a smartphone and looking for a cheap way to help you navigate the many aspects of this city, here is a list of free apps that may prove useful during your stay.

1 .  Airbnb

Not a Paris focussed app per se but Airbnb is one of the best ways way find great value accommodation and also very quirky local experiences across Paris. I’ve found a few fab deals in Paris on Airbnb like Frederique’s cosy apartment just off Canal St Martin where I spent a week recently. At just £44 per night sleeping 4, this is an amazing deal for Paris. Note : If you are new to Airbnb , signup using   this link   to get £26 off your first booking. Also if you are looking for accommodation, do checkout my recently revised guide to the best budget places to stay in Paris .

1. Mr Good Beer 

Ignore the kind of lame logo – in a town as notoriously expensive as Paris, this app is a boon for anyone seeking a cheap night out. It locates the cheapest pints in town, taking into account any happy hours around and allowing you to select the maximum price you’re willing to pay for a pint of beer. Keep in mind, however, that the price listed is always for the cheapest pint available, invariably a lager, so if you’re after a more flavorful brew, this isn’t necessarily the best way to go about finding it.

Having just criticized the place for its pricy disposition, Paris benefits from a surprisingly affordable and efficient public transport system. The official app does everything you’d expect of it, providing routes, bus and train times, and a metro plan that doesn’t require you to be connected to the internet in order to access it.

But sometimes the metro smells. And on hot days it smells even worse. On those days, your best option is to hop on one of the thousands of bikes that can be found lining the streets all over the city. Unlike New York or London, for instance, the city of Paris is relatively compact and makes for a good biking experience. The fact that Vélib’ has been around for eight years also means that car and truck drivers are more accustomed to dealing with cyclists, but – as with any other major city – ride carefully. You’ll need a credit or debit card to get one, but a one-day pass only costs 1.70, the price of a single fare on the metro, and allows you to use bikes for up to 30 minutes per trip, which is plenty of time to get you to most destinations within the city limits.

The app allows you to identify the closest docking stations and how many bikes are available – or, alternatively, if you’re looking to deposit a bike, it also indicates how many free spots are available in your proximity.

4. Visit Paris by Metro

Also run by RATP, Paris’s public transport agency, this app is geared more at touring the city’s main sites, allowing you to search and select major tourist attractions and providing you with descriptions thereof as well as detailed instructions on how to get there by public transport. It also has a useful section on travelling with the ‘noctiliens’, Paris’s night buses that replace the metro system during the early hours of the morning.

A well-known but very useful app that allows you to book a table at any restaurant in town at short notice. It also usefully indicates any restaurants in your immediate vicinity, with ratings, menus, photos and comments from previous customers. In order to make reservations using the app, you’ll have to sign up for an account (which is also free and particularly useful if you’re not all that confident speaking French), but you can also just use the app for the information on offer and give the restaurant a call to make the reservations.

6. Kiosque Paris

If you’re looking for a place to grab your morning paper, use this app to locate all the newspaper stands in your area. It also gives you their opening times and indicates whether any given stand is open on Sundays or not – not always a given in Paris.

Unfortunately, like other major cities, Paris has got some serious pollution problems. Usually, you won’t notice, but – especially in the summer – there are still days when you should avoid strenuous activities, like biking or running. This app simply indicates the air quality of the city on any given day; so if you want to go for a run in the park next door but the air looks kind of hazy, take a quick look at this app – if the pollution is heading towards ‘élevé’ (‘high’), it’s best to leave your exercise for another day.

8. City Gardens

Once you’ve established that the air quality is good enough for you to go for that run, you may want to locate the nearest green space. This app maps all urban green spaces for most of France’s major urban centers, including Paris.

9. Paris Bouge

If you’re looking for a guide to what concerts, exhibitions and other events are going on in Paris during your stay, this app is your best bet. Not much explaining necessary here – it simply lists most of the important cultural events on any given date, providing you with a little description of each event (in French), with their time, location and price.

10. MyLittleParis

If you’re after a more serendipitous approach to Paris’s cultural offerings, try out this app. Every few days it presents you with a random new offering of limited duration – anything from a jazz concert in a park to boxing lessons along the Seine. Given the haphazard way in which it presents you with opportunities, it may be of more use to you if your stay in Paris is of a longer duration though.

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Highlights of Montreal International Jazz Festival

  As part of Must Love Festivals, earlier this summer I crossed the mighty Atlantic to finally visit Montreal and checkout what is THE world’s…

7 Useful Apps Every Traveler Should Know About

By Harrison Pierce

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Technology continues to make travel easier for millions of people around the globe. New apps offer travelers fresh ways to research a destination, connect with fellow globetrotters, communicate with locals, and track their flights. As a full-time digital nomad , I’ve learned the importance of having the right tools at your disposal when on the road.

Over the past few years, I’ve visited dozens of countries, flown hundreds of thousands of miles, and tested countless apps to find the ones that prove to be the most helpful. And while tools like Meetup, Google Maps, Google Translate, currency converters, and vacation rental , airline, and hotel–specific apps are in fact indispensable on most trips, I find that many of the best travel apps are still undiscovered by my fellow travelers.

Below, seven travel apps that make life on the go markedly easier (and more fun), from real-time flight trackers to photo-sharing gems—all of these apps are free, but some have paid pro versions worth considering. Don’t think these apps are only for full-time travelers—they prove useful for every type of traveler, whether you're in a brand-new destination or back for a return visit.

Discover the best apps for travelers:

Apps for flying, apps for exploring, apps for photo sharing.

My favorite app on this list is Flighty, a must-have for any frequent flier . The free version is fantastic, but I recommend splurging for the premium version, which gives you even more useful information and comes at a reasonable cost of $48 per year. The functionality it provides more than justifies the price.

The free version allows you to input all future flights plus past journeys you've taken within the last year. It provides updated information if any schedule changes occur to upcoming flights and allows you to track all the miles you’ve flown in one place.

The other main benefit is that it allows you to share your flight information with friends and family members who are also on Flighty. They will receive real-time updates about your flight without you having to text them. My parents love to make sure I’m safe so they appreciate getting detailed information about my travels—even while I’m in the air.

Flightradar24 is a favorite app among fellow aviation geeks. It lets you track almost any aircraft you see in the air throughout the day or night. You can track your own flight, a friend's flight, or any plane you see in real-time. It shares plenty of cool data, like the altitude, speed, arrival and departure airports and times, and tail number.

There are tons of eSIM apps on the market, but Airalo is probably my favorite, with digital SIM cards available for dozens of countries. I find it to be the most reliable and offers the best data packages. It can be a little pricey, but it is the best option if you’re only taking short trips. Holafly is another eSIM app that offers unlimited data and works well, but I find the app to be much more glitchy than Airalo and would recommend using the desktop version.

This one is for the planner of the group. Wanderlog merges the best of a bunch of different apps into one. Imagine an app that lets you plan a trip with ease: collaborate with friends as if you’re on Google Docs, manage expense tracking like Splitwise, and have a central place for your reservations, checklists, and more. Tripit is a similar travel planner app, so you can download both and get a feel for which interface you like better.

Been allows you to track the countries you’ve visited and make a wish list of places you can’t wait to cross off your travel bucket list . It gives you information like the percentage of the globe you’ve been to and shows you a world map of your trips. It’s always fun to add in a new country whenever I reach my destination.

This app was introduced to me by fellow nomads I met at a cafe in Montevideo, Uruguay . It automatically tracks your route across the world, allowing you to quickly upload pictures throughout your travels that can be viewed by anyone who has access to your profile. It’s an excellent way to share important moments with loved ones without needing to send photos to each person individually. Users can also create easily accessible guides filled with up-to-date information to help you plan your own trip.

Steller is another app that a friend recently introduced me to, and I’ve quickly fallen in love with it. It uses a combination of AI and user experiences to help you plan trips around the globe. From recommendations of things to see, like the Recoleta Cemetery in Buenos Aires or the Royal Palace of Naples, to full guidebooks created by users, you can get inspired, book experiences, and discover hidden gems within this app.

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A Parisian Adventure: Planning the Perfect Day Trip From Paris

Craving a taste of French countryside, medieval history, or artistic inspiration? A day trip from Paris unlocks a world of possibilities

Camilla Amadi • Apr 29, 2024

Beyond the Eiffel Tower lies a treasure trove of destinations waiting to be discovered. Craving a taste of French countryside, medieval history or artistic inspiration? A day trip from Paris unlocks a world of possibilities and you can return to the City of Lights with renewed energy and unforgettable memories.

5 Day Trips From Paris

If you have some extra time, there are many charming towns and villages waiting to be explored. We’ve compiled five enticing escapes, all perfect for a single-day adventure from Paris. Here are a few of our favorites:

Home to the iconic Palace of Versailles, Versailles is a must-see for any history buff. The palace was the seat of French royal power for over a century, and its opulent gardens and staterooms are a testament to the grandeur of the French monarchy.

Things to do: Visit the Palace of Versailles, explore the Hall of Mirrors, stroll through the meticulously manicured gardens, rent a rowboat on the Grand Canal, visit the Marie-Antoinette’s Estate, and attend the famous Musical Fountain Shows (seasonal).

Best time to travel: The best time to visit Versailles is during the spring (April to June) or fall (September to October) when the weather is mild, and the gardens are in full bloom, avoiding the peak summer crowds.

Where to stay : Experience luxury at its finest by staying at the Trianon Palace Versailles, a Waldorf Astoria Hotel, offering elegant rooms and impeccable service just steps away from the Palace of Versailles.

This small village in Normandy is best known as the home of Claude Monet, the founder of Impressionism. Monet’s home and gardens, which he immortalized in many of his paintings, are now a popular tourist destination.

Things to do: Explore Claude Monet’s House and Gardens, wander through the flower garden and water garden, visit the Museum of Impressionisms, and take a leisurely walk around the picturesque village.

Best time to travel: The best time to visit Giverny is from April to October, especially during late spring to early summer when the flowers are in full bloom, and the gardens are at their most colorful.

Where to stay : Enjoy a peaceful countryside retreat at the Le Jardin des Plumes , a charming boutique hotel located close to Monet’s gardens, featuring stylish rooms and a gourmet restaurant with garden views.

Mont Saint-Michel

Mont Saint-Michel is famous for its dramatic tidal variations, with the surrounding bay experiencing some of the highest tides in Europe. During high tide, the island is completely surrounded by water, creating a magical and isolated atmosphere.

Things to do: Explore the Abbey of Mont Saint-Michel, walk along the ramparts for panoramic views, visit the historic village, wander through narrow streets lined with shops and restaurants, and take a guided tour to learn about the island’s fascinating history.

Best time to travel: The best time to visit Mont Saint-Michel is during the shoulder seasons of spring (April to June) or fall (September to October) to avoid the large crowds of summer while still enjoying pleasant weather.

Where to stay : Immerse yourself in the magic of Mont Saint-Michel by staying at the La Mère Poulard , an iconic hotel and restaurant within the medieval walls, offering cozy rooms and panoramic views of the bay.

The city of Chartres is famous for its magnificent cathedral, Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Chartres, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The cathedral is considered one of the finest examples of Gothic architecture in France, and its stained glass windows are some of the most beautiful in the world.

Things To Do: Visit the Maison Picassiette, a unique mosaic-covered house created by local artist Raymond Isidore, using broken glass and pottery. You may also walk the labyrinth located inside Chartres Cathedral, a symbolic journey representing the spiritual pilgrimage to Jerusalem.

Best time to travel: The best time to visit Chartres is during the spring (April to June) or fall (September to October) when the weather is mild, and the city is less crowded. 

Where to stay : Indulge in the historic ambiance of Chartres by booking a stay at the Best Western Plus Hotel Le Grand Monarque , ideally situated near the cathedral and featuring comfortable rooms and a traditional French brasserie.

This medieval town is located in Seine-et-Marne, about an hour east of Paris. Provins is known for its well-preserved city walls, its underground passages, and its annual Rose Festival, which takes place in September.

Things to do: Explore the medieval ramparts and gates, visit the Underground Galleries of Provins, attend a medieval festival or reenactment, explore the Grange aux Dîmes, and visit the Saint-Quiriace Collegiate Church.

Best time to travel : The best time to visit Provins is during the summer months (June to August) when the weather is pleasant for exploring outdoor attractions and when various festivals and events take place, celebrating the town’s medieval heritage.

Where to stay : Step back in time at the Maison d’Hôtes Stella Cadente , a unique boutique hotel located within the medieval walls of Provins, offering themed rooms inspired by fairy tales and a whimsical atmosphere that transports guests to another era.

Plan Your Itinerary

Crafting a well-rounded itinerary ensures you make the most of your time away from Paris. Consider the following tips:

Early Start: Begin your day trip early to maximize exploration time and avoid crowds, especially at popular attractions like Versailles or Mont Saint-Michel.

Transportation : Research transportation options, whether by train, bus, or organized tours, and book tickets in advance for a seamless journey.

Highlight Attractions: Prioritize must-see attractions while allowing flexibility for unexpected discoveries and leisurely moments.

Local Cuisine: Sample regional delicacies at quaint cafes or charming bistros, savoring the flavors of each destination.

Pack Essentials: Prepare for a day of adventure by packing essentials tailored to your chosen destination.

Comfortable Attire : Dress appropriately for the weather and activities, whether exploring palace grounds, hiking nature trails, or wandering cobblestone streets.

Map and Guidebook : Arm yourself with maps and guidebooks to navigate unfamiliar terrain and gain insights into local history and culture.

Camera : Capture the beauty and memories of your day trip with a camera or smartphone to immortalize scenic vistas and cherished moments.

Snacks and Water: Stay energized and hydrated throughout the day with snacks and water, especially if venturing to remote areas.

Embrace the Experience

Venturing beyond Paris’s borders unveils a world of wonders waiting to be explored. Whether you seek history, art, nature, or gastronomy, a day trip from Paris promises an enriching experience. Whichever destination you choose, you’re sure to have a memorable day trip from Paris. As you embark on your day trip from Paris, embrace the sense of adventure, engage with the locals and soak in the sights and sounds that comes with exploration. Bon voyage!

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Read more: 12 Smart Gadgets You Didn't Know Existed

If your cell plan doesn't include international roaming, you can get slammed with steep fees for using mobile data outside your own country.

There are a few ways to get around roaming charges, including buying a local SIM card for the country you are traveling in, using a Wi-Fi stick , or investing in a dual SIM phone, like those from Samsung, Apple, or Google. One of the easiest and cheapest options though, is an eSIM app like Airalo . Airalo was one of the first in the eSIM game and continues to be popular with travelers. Fans of the app point to how easy it is to download and get started quickly, and how much it saves in fees. On the other hand, some users have noticed a discrepancy in how well it works in different countries. One reviewer on TrustPilot states "We do NOT recommend this plan given the extremely poor performance in Vietnam" despite noting excellent service in Hong Kong. 

Airalo is a paid service, available on the App Store and on Google Play.

Google Maps is often the default app travelers reach for when navigating new territory. It's a trusted resource for a lot of reasons, including the ease of finding reviews and info for even very small businesses. But it's not the only map app out there, nor is it the best in every situation. The main advantage of Maps.me over Google Maps is that it is based on user-generated information. Particularly for folks who are getting around on foot, this "boots on the ground" approach is excellent and more direct than reporting problems to Google Maps . It also means that if you find a cool place on your travels and want to make sure other travelers can find it, you can add it to a map.

Like Google Maps and other useful way-finding apps, you can download maps and bookmark points of interest for offline use, although the background information on locations is not as robust as on Google Maps. Maps.me also allows you to access various modes of transportation while offline, which Google doesn't. 

Maps.me is free to download and available from the App Store and from Google Play.

Cash's position as king is increasingly precarious. On your travels, you'll find cashless options in places you might not expect. The mass availability of mobile payment platforms like Square means you may be able to whip out your phone or card at Swiss coffee carts or Mexican street vendors. Wise (formerly Transferwise) lets you move between currencies seamlessly. Wise lets you operate in 40 currencies, which is particularly handy if you are traveling to several different countries. They advertise charges that are less than the major banks. However, some users have complained about complications with money transfers, so be forewarned if you intend to use this app for sending money. 

Of note to travelers is the option to get an actual bank card that can function as an international debit card with a nominal conversion fee (not all bank cards can pay by debit in countries other than your home base.) Or, save a step and scan your phone to pay from your Wise account. 

Wise is available on the App Store and from Google Play. There is no charge to download the app, but fees are charged for some banking activities.

If you are going to be traveling from place to place on your vacation, you will want the Rome2Rio app on your phone. Enter your destination and departure location, and the app spits out the options and approximate costs for each leg of your journey. For instance, if you are in Edmonton, Canada, and want to get to the Thai island of Ko Yao Yai, the app will suggest six options, labeling the best, cheapest, and fastest combination of flight, minibus, and ferry. You can't purchase tickets through the app, although there are links to book accommodation that take you to Booking.com. Being able to purchase travel fares through the app would make things easier, especially if they were offered in a package, but the absence of that feature means you can investigate and compare prices from different booking operators , so we are putting it in the win column.

Rome2Rio is free to download and available from the App Store and from Google Play.

Rick Steves Audio Europe

Rick Steves is recognized as a top voice in travel guides. His down-to-earth approach to travel has endeared multitudes of followers to him, spawning an industry of books, television shows, and a sprawling web presence that features how-to guides, articles, and an active travelers' forum. On top of all that, he has a free app for self-guided walking tours through many of Europe's top sights called Rick Steves Audio Europe . Reviewers of the app give it a high rating (4.7 on Google Play and 4.3 on the App Store) using superlatives like "This app is GOLD," and comparing the quality of the tours to paid audio tours. On the downside, it is difficult to sync the app on multiple devices, so if you are in a group you may all be at slightly different parts of the tour, which can be mildly annoying. There are a bunch of tour sites, with more added periodically.

The audio tours and accompanying maps are downloadable, so you don't need to worry about burning through mobile data or needing to rely on Wi-Fi. Rick Steve Audio Europe is free to download and available from the App Store and from Google Play.

How many trips come vividly back to life in your mind just by thinking about that one excellent bowl of Cacio e Pepe pasta or sun-drenched sip of a Paloma? Exploring a place through its flavors and discovering new spots to eat is a beloved part of travel. In Europe, TheFork (the French version is called LaForchette) is the go-to app for crowd-sourced restaurant reviews. Previously, the app also covered Australia, but at the start of 2024, it was announced they will be pulling out of Oz.

You can find Michelin-starred restaurants with months-long wait lists or little hole-in-the-wall spots by searching the name of the eating establishment, the city or neighborhood you want to eat in, or the kind of cuisine you are craving.

The app is worthy of its space on your phone just for the restaurant listings and reviews, but if you want to explore more of the capabilities, there are ways to expand its usefulness. You can make reservations, register to collect points, access discounts and specials at select spots, and pay through the app. TheFork is free to download and available from the App Store and from Google Play.

Looking for a little love on the road? The Fairytrail app might be the ticket to romance (or ROAMance) you are looking for. Aimed at digital nomads and van life devotees, the app is a nice addition to the dating lives of travelers of all stripes. Members are evaluated and assigned a fairytale character similar to enneagram-slash-Myers-Briggs personality types, which is a new and novel approach compared with other iPhone dating apps or Android dating apps .

Because the app is focused on people with nomadic lifestyles, matches are location-independent. The idea is that users of the app will be willing to travel to each other to meet and date. There is a setting that allows an extra layer of matching: dream places to visit. If you so choose, before chatting with a match you need to have an overlapping "bucket-list" destination. Previously, this was an unavoidable step but became an optional setting after it was changed in response to frustration expressed by reviewers. The app is being redesigned in 2024 and soliciting feedback from users. Stay tuned, it seems more happy endings are in store! Fairytrails is free to download with in-app purchases and is available from the App Store and from Google Play.

Price Scanner And Converter

A very unpleasant aspect of vacationing in another country is coming home to a shocking credit card bill. Part of the problem is the tendency of holidaymakers to spend like money isn't real, but the other problem is how difficult it is to calculate prices into your own currency. Sure, you can come up with shortcuts to do quick math, but that gives you an estimate rather than an exact cost. To help, there are many different currency converter apps out there, with features like real-time rate calculation and offline capability. The somewhat clunky-named Price Scanner and Converter takes it one step further by using your phone's camera to scan prices and display them automatically in your preferred currency (out of 150 global currencies.) New iPhone cameras also have a similar capability, but it isn't as seamless a process as using this app.

This price scanning app isn't presently available on Google Play, although there are similar apps to be found. The reviews are pretty overwhelmingly mediocre, so if you are on team Android, your best bet may be to download a regular currency converter and enter in prices the old-fashioned way.

Downloading the Price Scanner and Converter is free from the App Store.

Searching through your emails for confirmations and itineraries isn't an efficient way to access your travel information. And good luck if you have used your work email for some of your planning and your personal email for others. What if you are offline when you need to find your tour details? Nightmare fuel. Tripit has created a simple user experience, allowing you to forward all those endless travel planning emails to be arranged into an easily accessible itinerary in a single spot, which you can access from any of your devices.

Other features of this include the ability to load PDFs, QR codes, and other travel documents to your Tripit travel folder. There are helpful navigation tools, like airport maps, neighborhood safety ratings, and nearby places. You can share your travel plans and sync them to your calendar. For $49 a year (or a free 30-day trial) you can upgrade to Tripit Pro for enhanced travel aid, including notifications to help keep you on track and on time. 

Tripit is free to download from the App Store and from Google Play, and you can upgrade to the premium Tripit Pro on the Tripit website or in the app.

Mobile Passport Control

The latest app from U.S. Customs and Border Patrol goes by the wildly creative name, " Mobile Passport Control ." It's a no-nonsense app with a no-nonsense name that allows users to streamline the customs experience. Rather than filling out declarations forms, users enter their information into the app and send it to border officials so they can access it as soon as they get to customs. You can do this immediately upon arrival, say as your plane is taxiing to the gate.

The app is for United States citizens and Canadians with a B-1 or B-2 visitor visa who are entering the USA at one of 33 American airports, 11 preclearance sites, and four seaports. It works in tandem with your passport, but it doesn't replace it.

As a bonus, some sites allow those with the Mobile Passport Control app to use their own (almost always shorter!) line or expedited Global Entry lines at passport control. You can enter family members on the same app and there is no approval process, just download and go.

A previous iteration of the app had a premium, paid version, but this is no longer the case. The app is free on the App Store and Google Play.

Read the original article on SlashGear .

The 13 Best Airbnbs in Paris, Vetted by a Francophile Editor

Tower views included.

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There’s no place on earth like the City of Light . Trust me, I’ve lived there. After completing my studies, I spent one and half years gallivanting through Paris while hemming over whether to be a writer. (And did a lot of photography .) I spent pretty much all those 548 days wandering every arrondissement (districts), searching for the best pastries, snacks, restaurants, and scenic spots, which I then documented extensively on a blog I wrote at the time . Thus, I can confidently say I know the city well, and every time I return, it’s like going home. Whether you’re entertaining your first trip or your tenth, here’s a list of the 13 best Airbnbs in Paris, which I’ve vetted based on neighborhood, along with my recommendations of the best things to do nearby. Bon voyage!

14 Family-Friendly European Destinations for a Vacation to Remember

1. Eiffel Tower Apartment

• Price: from $195/night
• Why We Recommend It: close to métro, Eiffel Tower in walking distance, elevator building

Even after living there, the sight of the Eiffel Tower never got old. (Though, paying the entry fee has...) This apartment is located in the 15 th arrondissment, which is, in my opinion, underrated. The 15 th is a local’s neighborhood, not as flashy as, say, the 6 th or the 7 th with the well-known Boulevard Saint Germain. Still, you’ll want for nothing. The (relatively) new mall, Beaugrenelle, has everything you could possibly need, the Seine is within easy walking distance (where you can see a mini Statue of Liberty) and the tower is similarly accessible. The apartment itself is contemporary and Parisian, but the building does have an elevator if accessibility is important.

2. Champs-Élysées Apartment

• Price: from $289/night
• Why We Recommend It: luxury shops, close to major monuments

Sing it with me: Oh, Champs-Élysées. Joe Dassin was right when he sang that this legendary boulevard is splendid rain or shine and, in the morning, and night. If you’ve come to Paris to shop, this is the place to do it, in addition to the rue Saint Honoré. We’re talking Louis Vuitton, Longchamp, Sandro, Saint Laurent and my personal favorite, Petit Bateau. And that’s just getting started. The apartment is as grand as any you’ll find, with a coveted fireplace, gold-rimmed mirrors and plenty of sunlight. And when you step outside, you’ll be a convenient distance from the Arc de Triomphe, which offers a dazzling 360-degree view of the city.

3. Tuileries Studio

• Price: from $316/night
• Why We Recommend It: near the Tuileries gardens, easy access to métro station

Here’s a romantic little studio perfect for a pair of lovers right next to the Tuileries gardens. If you love traditional décor, you’ll melt over the Art Nouveau, Empire and Louis XV and XVI pieces that pepper the apartment. I love the Tuileries because in addition to the expansive gardens, you’re also right next to the Louvre and two smaller museums that, honestly, I much prefer. The Musée de l’Orangerie has wall-to-wall Impressionist paintings (including some by Monet, heard of him?), while the Jeu de Paume focuses on contemporary art, photography and cinema.

4. Montmartre Duplex

• Price: from $192/night
• Why We Recommend It: steeped in art history, close to Sacre Coeur, full kitchen

For those who perpetually live in the world of Amélie, the quirky Parisian waitress brought to life by Audrey Tautou in the 2001 eponymous film, this Montmartre duplex is calling your name. The church is a must-see if this is your first rodeo (be sure to climb to the top for great views), but if it’s been there, done that, here’s what I’d do instead. First, go see La Maison Rose. It’s a restaurant now but served as an intellectuals’ club in Funny Face starring Audrey Hepburn and Fred Astaire. Then, see a cabaret show, not at the Moulin Rouge but at Le Lapin Agile, a 19 th -century stone house that once served the likes of Picasso, Modigliani and Apollinaire. Across the street is the Vignes du Clos Montmartre, a vineyard operating since 1933. Tours are sporadic and usually in the fall during harvest, but it’s worth a shot. Top it off with a visit to the Montmartre and Dalí museums.

5. Louis XIV Apartment

• Price: from $2,143/night
• Why We Recommend It: luxury decor,

A panoramic view of the Eiffel Tower and the Seine? Sign me up. The apartment is a splurge, but marble floors, handcrafted furniture, gold leaf accents, stained glass and a dramatic freestanding cast iron bathtub make their case. Situated in the posh 16 th arrondissement, the pied-à-terre makes it easy to walk over to the Trocadéro, which provides the view of the tower that everyone seems to be getting in all their photos. Don’t get too starry-eyed, though, because you’ll want to see the Musée de l’Homme, another underrated museum. This neighborhood touches the Bois de Boulogne, and if you have time, it’s a must-visit. I love going to see the Parc de Bagatelle, with its stunning rose garden and grounds. Here’s cocktail trivia for you: The chateau and park were constructed in 64 days on a bet between Marie Antoinette and her brother-in-law, the Comte d’Artois.

6. Suite Haussmann

• Price: from $160/night
• Why We Recommend It: lively and local neighborhood, washing machine

Here’s the down-low: The Seine is just for the tourists. Not completely, but locals know that the real places to be are Canal Saint Martin in the 10 th and more recently, La Villette and Canal de l’Ourq in the 19 th . Come summer, there are movie screenings, and plenty of opportunities for social dancing. The apartment is close to the Parc des Buttes Chaumont, which is one of my favorite places to picnic. If you climb the hill to the Temple de la Sibylle, you’ll get the city skyline and it’s divine. There are also local cafés and restaurants all around (I recommend La Fontaine on rue Juliette Dodu), with residents spilling out onto the terraces with wine and coffee. Honestly, I prefer this over the usual recommendations in the ever-popular 6 th and 7 th .

7. Paris 3 Apartment

• Price: from $177/night
• Why We Recommend It: air conditioning, natural light, full kitchen

This apartment is a rarity in that it has air condition, or what the French call climatisation . It’s a precious thing here, even now, so if you can’t live without it, then you need this apartment, stat. But AC aside, the 3 rd is one of my favorite neighborhoods and probably one I’ve spent the most time in. Much of it comprises Le Marais, translating to “the marsh.” It’s one of, if not the city’s oldest, neighborhoods. Here, you’ll find no shortage of falafel. (L’As du Falafel has top billing, but the competitor across the street never has a line and is just as good.) There are also quite a few smaller museums, including the Picasso Museum, Carnavalet Museum, Cognacq-Jay Museum and Victor Hugo’s apartment in the Place des Vosges. And for you Anthropologie devotees, you’ll want to go shop at the French equivalent, Merci.  

8. Palais Royal Loft

• Price: from $257/night
• Why We Recommend It: heated balcony, air conditioning, full kitchen, Art Nouveau design

A friend of mine lives near the Palais Royal, which she affectionately and jokingly calls her backyard. So, trust me when I say this little loft is perfectly situated. In my opinion, if you have the Palais Royal, you really don’t need much else. The galleries are filled with cafés (stop at Café Kitsune for a coffee) and the posh restaurant, Le Grand Véfour. You’re a short walk away from the Opéra (which ironically is home to the ballet). And this one’s for the Swifties: You may recall that in Begin Again , Taylor buys pastries in a shop...that shop is Le Moulin de la Vièrge in the Place des Petits Pères. I went there. It was good. You're welcome.

9. Luxembourg Apartment

• Price: from $429/night
• Why We Recommend It: lots of sunlight, views of Luxembourg gardens and Panthéon, elevator, high ceilings with crown molding

Admittedly, I am a Right Bank gal, but this apartment is a shining example of the Left’s merits. Crown molding, high ceilings, sun-drenched, with views of the Panthéon and the Luxembourg gardens? Yeah, I’ll be there. And this apartment is on Rue Sufflot, which is the main avenue leading straight to the Panthéon. Easy access to the Latin Quarter and the 6 th arrondissement. You don’t have to walk far. I’d start with a visit to The Red Wheelbarrow, an anglophone bookstore on rue de Médicis. (Shakespeare & Co. is overrated. I said it.) Buy a book and then head to its neighbor, Treize au Jardin, for a mashup of English, French and American fare. Of course, a jaunt through the gardens is a must, too.

10. Opéra Apartment

• Sleeps:   2
• Price: from $236/night
• Why We Recommend It: full kitchen, quiet area, convenient location

I think the 9 th arrondissement should get a little more love. You have the storied department stores, Galeries Lafayette and Printemps (both of which have rooftops you absolutely must visit), quiet (but impressive) museums like Gustave-Moreau and the Musée de la Vie Romantique and the Palais Garnier on one end and Montmartre on the other. I’d make sure to stop at Bouillon Pigalle, where, inflation dependent, you could still have a three-course meal (including wine) for 20 euros.

11. Suite Lumière

• Price: from $331/night
• Why We Recommend It: in the heart of the city, modern building, lots of light

Many apartments will bill themselves as “the heart of Paris,” but this one truly is. Look at a map, you’ll notice that Paris is segmented into districts that spiral in numerical order, creating the shape of a snail. This apartment is in the 1 st arrondissement, smack dab in the middle. That means you have access to the Louvre, the Tuileries, the Champs Élysées, Nôtre Dame, the Palais Royal, Sainte Chapelle, the Pont des Arts...need I go on? If you really want to be in the middle of the action, this is the apartment for you.

12. Quartier Latin Apartment

• Sleeps: 4          
• Price: from $225/night
• Why We Recommend It: elevator, close to métro

When I was living in Paris, a good friend had an apartment in the Latin Quarter, so I spent a good bit of time there. This apartment is beautifully situated on the fourth floor, bright and airy with some country charm. I’d start the mornings with a croissant from La Maison d’Isabelle because I like mine flakey and simultaneously dripping in butter. There’s also a lovely market that pops up regularly out front in the Place Maubert. Another market I love is in Place Monge, filled with produce, flowers and local craftspeople. There are two real gems here that you don’t want to pass up. The first is the Jardin des Plantes. It has some of the spring’s most beautiful cherry blossoms. After you’ve explored every nook and cranny, stop for a drink at Place de la Contrascarpe. It’s one of those places that make you feel you’ve stepped out of the wardrobe and into Narnia. When I first left, I was afraid I wouldn’t find it again! But it’s filled with cafés and incredibly lively...the perfect place for a little drink.

13. Notre Dame Apartment

• Price: from $434/night
• Why We Recommend It: full kitchen, lively neighborhood, close to métro

Not going to lie: this area is hopping. But if you like being in the thick of it, then this is also the perfect apartment. Though the cathedral is still under construction, it’s still a sight to behold. And once you’ve beheld, beeline to Shakespeare & Co. I know I said it was overrated, but it’s still fun. (You can see a commemorative plaque at the original location where Syliva Beach published Ulysses, at 12 rue de l’Odéon.) They also have a café where you can grab a bite, or you can walk a few paces down rue Saint-Julien le Pauvre to Odette, a charming café in a Normandy-style timber wood structure that’s sturdier than it looks. They serve elaborate cream puffs and wine, which is all you need to know.

The 19 Best Airbnbs in London, Whether You Want a Romantic Urban Retreat or a Family-Friendly Vacation

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• Why Travelers Are Ditching Paris Hotels for Supersized Châteaux During the Summer Olympics

With prices competitive with the capital's best hotels and space for your entourage, the historic homes surrounding Paris are this summer's hottest booking.

Chrissie mcclatchie, chrissie mcclatchie's most recent stories.

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Hidden among 12 acres of private woodland 35 minutes from the center of Paris , Château Bouffément is filled with five Napoléonic-era reception spaces, a sweeping horseshoe staircase, manicured lawns, and a mirror lake. 

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“They have tickets for three days of events, other than that they have various activities in and around Paris planned,” says Gogebakan.

 “We have a few clients who prefer to pop in and out of château properties rather than stay in Paris itself,” says Staunton, an ex-superyacht crew member turned CEO of SoldOut Events . “That way they can invite larger groups of friends and family for a unique experience.”

As it stands, Staunton has personally inspected and confirmed four exclusive-use castle bookings for UHNWI clients flying in for the games from around the world. “The appeal of the château is absolute privacy and the ability to bring in existing house staff, chefs, butlers, and the like because there is space for it,” he explains. 

They also don’t want to be jammed into the chaos of central Paris, since they are mostly targeting particular events.

“These are people who sail or ride horses or play golf or tennis, coming to Paris for their passion sport,” Staunton says.

That’s why a Korean family booked six nights at Château de Méridon , southwest of Paris. They’re coming to town to support their national archery team. After they leave, an American family is checking in to Meridon to watch equestrian events at nearby Château de Versailles .

“One of the families was eying Le Royal Monceau or Le Bristol , but decided to stay with us because we’re surrounded by greenery,” says Château de Méridon co-owner and managing director Jehanne Bosco. “They’re able to avoid the hassle of Paris yet are only 22 miles away.”

One of the groups coming for the Olympics found the $71,000-a-week property via Instagram. They were wowed by the Art Deco styling of the newly refurbished castle that once stood at the heart of the wildlife reserve of French King Louis XV. 

“We’re like a Parisian palace [a status awarded to exceptional French hotels], but people can enjoy the grounds, breathe in fresh air, and discover the rural side of France here, too,” Bosco says.

Some of the world’s top athletes are also eschewing Paris, and the traditional stay at the athletes’ village, for a château stay. A 45-minute drive from Paris, Château de Farcheville has a one month booking for one American Olympian and their entourage of around 25. The athlete was so sure of their participation that they made the reservation two years ago, property owner Conny Carlsson says.

Surrounded by a deep moat, the 13th-century castle promises total seclusion with all the trimmings including a swimming pool, a tennis court, and a spa and fitness center. 

But getting one for yourself ahead of the games won’t be easy. It’s estimated that there are 500-plus châteaux in the Île-de-France region surrounding Paris, although some are ruined, while others are museums or private homes. And only a small percentage of what’s on the luxury rental market actually tick the boxes for the likes of Staunton’s clientele: swimming pool, helipad to fly in and out of Paris, and separate accommodation for staff. 

Still, not every gold medal worthy property has been snapped up. Just 40 minutes from the Champs Elysées, Château de Villette was finished by the same architect as the Château de Versailles and served as a location in 2006’s The Da Vinci Code .

“The Château has seven luxurious suites and regularly hosts events and A-listers as they seek respite close to Paris,” says Madison Littlejohn of luxury real estate agents Carlton International. 

John Travolta, Tom Cruise, and Lenny Kravitz are just some of those who have stayed at the property which is, at the time of publication, still available for the entire Olympic period at a cost of $76,000 a night. Both Château Bouffémont and Château de Méridon are also showing availability for dates in early August. Talk about historic wins.

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Come summer, travel to Europe will be top of mind for plenty of Americans with vacation on the brain.

But can we afford it? Summers especially can be crowded, hot and packed with tourists driving up rates as locals flee for the countryside and beaches — not really the best time to be visiting.

Plus, this year, there’s an extra level of expense added, with the 2024 Olympics taking Paris for the months of July and August.

And that won’t just impact Paris, but all the destinations like the French wine regions, the Cote d’Azur and even London and Brussels and Amsterdam — all easily accessible by rail and likely to receive plenty of extra visitors.

So you might still be going — but you might be going before or after the summer, this time around. And according to a new study , that’s totally fine.

For example, did you know that Paris can be a pretty good deal, as long as you’re not insisting on the peak travel periods?

The number crunchers at Radical Storage urge travelers not looking to go into heavy debt to select the shoulder season, when visitors can save a whopping average of 60.3% on their hotel stays, one of biggest budget busters on a Paris itinerary, where peak season nightly rates averaged $866.

Wait until shoulder season and see those same rates plummet to $344, the research revealed. That’s a discount of $522.

Shoulder seasons can vary by destination, but are by definition the times between peak and off-peak. And, most importantly, unlike during low season, the weather isn’t terrible. (If you’ve spent a winter in Paris, you know that’s an issue.)

“Shoulder season is the period before or after peak season but not yet the off-season. For example, many European destinations have a very busy summer (July/August) but May, June, September, and October may be considered shoulder season (it varies per destination), while January could be considered the off-season or low season,” the study stated.

“Visiting destinations in shoulder season usually means lower costs and lower crowds, while still keeping good enough weather for tourism.”

To find the best times to travel to Europe, the study pored over data from Google Flights and prices for thousands of hotels. Besides beaucoup bargain boltholes in Paris, they also found that flights to Budapest in the off-season sank to 56.6% of peak season highs, Thrillist reported .

And while Budapest had the best drop in prices, it was far from the best deal, overall — peak pricing for cities like Stockholm from the States averaged about $778, according to the study, and $537 during shoulder season — a drop of 30.9 percent.

As part of the study’s findings, the authors compiled a list of the best shoulder season month to visit a selection of cities around the world. Here are their picks for many of Europe’s most popular destinations.

The cheapest time of year to visit these European cities

• Athens – April
• Barcelona – April
• Brussels – April
• Copenhagen – April
• Florence – April
• Frankfurt – April
• Milan – April
• Munich – April
• Prague – April
• Venice – April
• Vienna – April
• Berlin – May
• Edinburgh – May
• Madrid – September
• Nice – September
• Amsterdam – October
• Budapest – October
• Dublin – October
• Lisbon – October
• London – October
• Paris – October
• Stockholm – October
• Zurich – October
• Rome – November

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Choose your own adventure: Where to go and how to save on summer vacations

Revenge travel is so last year.

“It's not necessarily about just getting out of the house anymore,” said Sydney Stanback, Global Insights and Trends lead at Pinterest, which has seen more than 1 billion travel searches and more than 10 billion travel saves over the past year. 

Sure, many of the usual suspects are once again among the most popular destinations across multiple search engines this year, but she said this summer, “It's more so about traveling with intention.” 

According to NerdWallet’s Summer 2024 Travel Report , 45% of Americans plan to take a trip requiring a hotel stay or flight this summer with expenses averaging just under $3,600. A fifth of those travelers expect to go into debt to pay for vacations.

Here’s what to consider when booking a summer trip, including where to go, when to travel and how to save:

Learn more: Best travel insurance

What is the best place to travel in summer? 

The answer is subjective, especially this summer.

“Everyone's kind of choosing their own adventure based off of what their needs are for travel,” Stanback said. 

Pinterest’s Summer 2024 Travel Report found summer travelers are most interested in adventure, exploring mysterious or uncharted destinations, and rest. Searches for “quiet life” jumped 530%, but that doesn’t mean the same thing to everyone.

“My mother actually just took a yoga retreat to Panama,” Stanback said. “That's what she needed to do in order to get the rest that she needed and the well-being that she needed. But for me, when I think of rest and restoration, I simply think about going to a beach spa and just sitting and being by myself.”

Solo travel remains popular. Solo travel searches reached an all-time high in Google in January, but again, not for everyone.

“For Gen Z specifically, that need is to gather and reconnect with their community because they were in isolation for so long and during very meaningful moments in their lives,” Stanback said. She noted group travel and road trips are of keen interest to Gen Z.

“It's not necessarily about traveling and going out and going to restaurants and going to bars and clubs,” she added. “We actually see that a lot with younger generations. They’re kind of stepping away from that and really considering their well-being when they're taking time off.”

Where do most tourists go in summer?

Expedia’s Summer Outlook and Google Flights identified the same cities among their most searched summer 2024 destinations based on flights, though rankings varied by platform.

Top 5 domestic destinations 

◾ Orlando, Florida

◾ Los Angeles

◾ Las Vegas

Top 5 international destinations

◾ Cancun, Mexico

◾ Paris, host of the Summer Olympics

Allianz Partners found slightly different results in their analysis of “more than six million flight itineraries for trips between five and eight days in length for travel booked between Memorial Day weekend and Labor Day.”

Instead of LA and Vegas, Allianz named Boston and Honolulu among this summer’s top five domestic destinations. Internationally, San Jose del Cabo, Mexico; Oranjestad, Aruba; and Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, made Allianz’s top five, instead of Rome, Paris and Tokyo.

“I am expecting crowds to rival last summer's in popular overseas cities,” Expedia’s travel expert Melanie Fish said, noting how places like Barcelona and Venice are trying to curb overtourism. “They're trying fees and if that's not enough, they're going to have to go even further.”

How can I save on a trip?

Summer trips are already costly for many travelers. “Americans with household income under $100,000 accounted for nearly half (46%) of intended leisure travel spend in summer 2023,” according to Deloitte’s Facing travel’s future report from April.

Expedia’s Fish shared five tips for booking summer 2024 vacations:

◾ Bundle your trip. Booking airfare and a hotel at the same time can earn you deep discounts.

◾ Travel midweek or later in the summer if it's an option. You'll save money and save yourself from fighting crowds. 

• ◾ Fly early in the day … The early bird who takes the first flight of the day will typically get a better price and a lower chance of delays and cancellations. ◾ Book once, earn twice. You can stack rewards from your travel credit card (and) your airline.◾ Just go. Don't pressure yourself to create the trip of a lifetime … Do it in a bite-sized chunk if possible. 

'Expensive in every way': What travelers should expect this summer

How far ahead should I book travel?

“The sweet spot is now,” Fish said. “We're within that 21- to 60-day pre-travel window to save around 15% on airfare, so now is the time to plan. That means ready, set, but maybe wait until August to actually go.”

She said travelers can save an average of $250 on international flights if they wait until the peak summer travel season passes. 

“It's 15% cheaper on average to fly domestically in August versus June, 30% cheaper to fly to Europe in late summer, and 55% cheaper to fly to Mexico and the Caribbean in August,” she said. “Of course, August is peak hurricane season , so that has something to do with that price dip.”