Paris According to Locals: Video Guide

This local’s guide to Paris shares what to see, where to eat, and what’s actually worth doing. It’s built from our guide’s insights paired with Sean and Brandon’s own experience. Follow along for a laid-back plan that balances headline sights with hidden corners.

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What We Cover in This Video

• Getting Around the City
• 2-Day Itinerary
• Where to Stay

Resources Mentioned in This Video

• Paris Guide Book
• Best Restaurants
• Where to Stay
• What to Do in Paris
• Paris Tours

Getting Around Paris Like a Local

Here’s how to move around Paris like you’ve done it before.

• The city is divided into 20 arrondissements. Lower numbers are central, and neighborhoods often overlap districts (like Le Marais in the 3rd and 4th).
  
  
• The Metro is the fastest way to get around. Follow Google or Apple Maps for step-by-step directions.
  
  
• Walking is often quicker than transit and lets you see more. Remember, exploring is part of the experience, so don’t overplan your route.
  
  
• Uber works well when you have luggage, it’s late, or you’re crossing town. Here’s how to use Uber in Paris.

Get to Know Paris With a Guide:

The Best Paris Itinerary According to Locals

In our opinion, the worst way to see Paris is to cram it all in. This itinerary gives you just enough structure, with plenty of breathing room for good food and aimless wandering.

For more ideas, check these out:
1-Day • 2-Day • 3-Day • 4-Day Itineraries

Arrive in Paris

• Land, drop your bags, and ease straight into local life.
  
  
• Slip into Chez Fernand in Saint-Germain for boeuf bourguignon, crème brûlée, and a house red that tastes like you’ve officially arrived.
  
  
  

Day 1 in Paris

Major sights with local-approved breaks.

• Start at Le Hibou for a coffee and croissant. Or pick any café with terrace seating and a decent espresso. Don’t overthink it, what matters is where you’re comfortable.
  
  
• Book a Louvre tour. The museum is too big to tackle solo. A small-group or private guide makes a big difference.
  
  
• Break at Café Laperouse for elegant vibes, or sit in the Tuileries Gardens if the weather’s good.
  
  
• Wander Passage des Panoramas. Stop for lunch, browse shops, and enjoy the quieter pace. Need more ideas? See our Paris shopping by budget guide.
  
  
• Choose a dinner spot near your hotel. Paris is made for evening walks, so wrap the day with a good meal and a slow stroll.

Top Paris Tours

Day 2 in Paris

A focus on quality time in good places.

• Start slow. Sleep in, grab a buttery croissant, then wander aimlessly. This is a good day to explore a new neighborhood on foot.
  
  
  • Check out our Best Markets in Paris article for inspiration.
    

• Lunch at L’Avant Comptoir de la Mer for seafood lovers, or L’Avant Comptoir de la Terre if you prefer meat. Both are proof you don’t need white tablecloths for a great meal in Paris.
  

• Head to Montmartre in the afternoon. It’s quieter than central Paris and offers some of the city’s best views.
  
  
  • Stop by the Wall of I Love You
    
    
  • Have dinner at Le Relais de la Butte
    
    
  • Walk up to Sacré-Coeur around sunset

Where to Stay in Paris:

Pick based on your vibe, not just the location.

• Saint-Germain-des-Prés (6th Arr.) – Sophisticated, central, and walkable. Ideal for couples and travelers 30+ who want good food and wine nearby.
  
  
• Le Marais (3rd & 4th Arr.) – Young, cool, LGBTQ+-friendly, and packed with boutiques.
  
  
• Latin Quarter (5th Arr.) – Student-heavy, budget-friendly, and charming. Great for solo travelers or curious minds.
  
  
• Montmartre (18th Arr.) – Romantic, artsy, and residential. A little out of the way, but ideal for longer stays.
  
  
• 8th Arr. – Great if you’re after luxury, but you’ll be surrounded by tourists when you walk out the hotel door.
  

Find Your Perfect Parisian Hotel

More Resources for Your Paris Adventure

This Paris According to Locals article has come to an end, but your planning doesn’t have to.

Paris Travel Tips – Podcast

Top Paris Tours to Take (and Why)

Best Restaurants in Paris

Top Things to Do in Paris

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