5 travel tips for Paris; only locals know this
Paris is a city that never bores me. Even though I've been there countless times, I keep discovering new things. This time I learned from a real insider, someone who has worked in Paris for 25 years and knows the city inside out. She shared tips with me that even I didn't know. Time to share them with you, because this is how you really travel like a Parisian in 2025.
1. Forget Ladurée, go for macarons at Hermé
We all know Ladurée. Those famous macarons, those beautiful displays... But nowadays you have to struggle through three rows of Japanese tourists to score a box. Been there, done that, found it a bit less charming after a few times. And then Janet, my Paris insider, told me about Pierre Hermé. The real local gets her macarons there. What a difference. Hermé is not only tastier but also a bit more affordable. Plus, it's much quieter than at Ladurée. My favorite? The flavors with exotic fruit and a subtle hint of spices – perfect to take as a gift or to enjoy in your hotel room. Check www.pierreherme.com for locations and treats.
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2. Shop for tea at Mariage Frères
Besides macarons, tea is also a big thing in Paris. Mariage Frères is the classic tea house you must know. They sell loose tea, but especially those cute cotton tea bags that you also get in the most expensive hotels. No hassle with a tea strainer while traveling, just pop the bag in your cup and enjoy. Curious about something extra? Try their ‘Sexy Tea’ collection, a trendy twist on traditional blends. In Paris, you can easily find them, as Mariage Frères has multiple locations. And believe me, just the smell is a party.
3. No stress with the KLM app
Traveling is wonderful, but stressing at the airport is something else. That's why I swear by the KLM app. This is not an ad, but a real lifesaver. You add your Flying Blue number, and boom, all your flight information is in one app. No more hassle with paper boarding passes or searching for your e-ticket in your inbox. The app also alerts you well in advance when you need to check in, which gate you have, and even if your flight is delayed. Ideal for anyone who is a bit chaotic – and secretly, that's all of us.
4. Sneak through customs via the secret passage
Who doesn't know those long lines at customs at Schiphol? I always stood there for hours until Janet gave me this golden tip. Don't walk in the full crowd towards the middle, but shuffle all the way to the left. There, by that green sign ‘Nothing to declare‘, it's much quieter. This way, you easily save yourself ten to fifteen minutes of waiting. And believe me, you can spend that time much better enjoying a croissant on Paris’ terrace than waiting in a stinky line with grumpy travelers.
5. Eat like a local at hidden gems
Café de Flore remains a classic, but these days it sometimes feels more like a tourist trap than Parisian atmosphere. If you really want to experience the real Paris, you need to go to insider restaurants. Janet tipped me a few hidden gems that I now want to share with you:
- Restaurant Kong, above La Samaritaine, with an amazing view over the Seine and hip vibes.
- Le Georges, at the Centre Pompidou, perfect for a stylish lunch or dinner, and secretly a bit famous thanks to Sex and the City (you know, where Carrie met Alexandr Petrovsky's ex).
- Café Français and Frenchie. are also favorites of locals – relaxed, with good food and just that little extra.
These places are less touristy and therefore much cozier. You're among Parisians who come for taste and atmosphere, not for Instagram.
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Bonus: Practical tip for parking and traveling with children
If you're driving to Paris, don't forget to reserve a parking spot in a garage in advance. It saves you searching and sky-high fines. I also find that the garages in Paris always smell like green soap instead of dried urine. My car was even towed once – long story – and I had to pick it up in the most beautiful parking garage next to the Louvre. I only had to pay €50 for the towing and a day of parking. That's something else than the Amsterdam canals. And if you're traveling with small children, Paris is surprisingly accessible with a stroller. Most restaurants move tables aside, and people easily make room. I still remember breastfeeding in a hip café, and no one batted an eye. Comfortable and relaxed travel makes your city trip so much more enjoyable.
