A Solo Girl's Travel Story: Rae's Guide to Exploring the City of Lights
- Rhonda Charles
- Jul 26
- 6 min read
Paris, the enchanting City of Lights, is the perfect destination for a solo adventure, especially for women seeking an unforgettable journey. With its charming streets, iconic landmarks, and vibrant culture, Paris offers endless possibilities for exploration and discovery. Whether you're savoring a croissant at a local café or marveling at the Eiffel Tower's grandeur, there's something magical in every corner. This guide is packed with travel tips for women, highlighting how to navigate Paris with ease and enjoy its wonders safely. So, grab your beret and let's explore solo travel in Paris with confidence and excitement!
Arriving in Paris
Stepping into Paris for the first time as a solo female traveler can be both exhilarating and a bit nerve-wracking. Let's dive into my experience of arriving in the City of Lights and getting settled in my temporary Parisian home.
Unexpected Flight Benefits
My original plan to take the train from Barcelona to Paris hit a snag when seats sold out. Switching to a flight turned out to be a blessing in disguise.
Booking transport to the airport was a breeze, and I didn't have to worry about translating signs or directions. This ease of travel is a huge plus for solo travelers.
The flight's 2 PM arrival time was much more convenient than the original 10 PM train arrival. It gave me plenty of daylight to navigate to my Airbnb and get my bearings in a new city.
For solo travel tips and tricks, check out this helpful guide on where to start your solo adventure.
Navigating to My Airbnb
Finding my way to the 18th Arrondissement was surprisingly simple. Paris has an excellent public transportation system that's easy for newcomers to use.
I opted for a taxi from the airport to ensure a smooth start to my stay. It's always a good idea to have your accommodation's address written down or saved on your phone for the driver.
Upon arrival, I was thrilled to discover a local market just a block away from my Airbnb. This proximity to fresh food and essentials is a real perk when staying in a residential area.
First Impressions of the 18th Arrondissement
The 18th Arrondissement, home to the famous Montmartre neighborhood, offers a unique blend of Parisian charm and multicultural vibrancy.
As evening fell, I noticed the streets filled with men at cafes and bars, while women were scarce. This observation made me more aware of my surroundings and reinforced the importance of staying vigilant as a solo female traveler. Despite feeling a bit conspicuous, the area's lively atmosphere and the smell of fresh bread from nearby bakeries quickly won me over. It was clear I'd chosen an authentic Parisian experience for my stay.
Exploring Montmartre
Montmartre, with its artistic history and stunning views, is a must-visit area for any Paris itinerary. Let's explore the highlights of this charming neighborhood.
Morning at Le Sacré-Cœur
My first full day in Paris began with a visit to the iconic Sacré-Cœur Basilica, perched atop the highest hill in the city.
The climb to the basilica offers a great workout and increasingly beautiful views of Paris. Once at the top, the panoramic vista of the city is truly breathtaking.
Street performers and artists add to the lively atmosphere on the church steps. It's a perfect spot to soak in Parisian culture and maybe even pick up a unique souvenir.
For more Paris travel inspiration, check out these reviews from fellow travelers.
Brunch Spots You Can't Miss
After taking in the views, I stumbled upon a quaint café perfect for a leisurely brunch. Paris is renowned for its café culture, and Montmartre doesn't disappoint.
Look for places with outdoor seating to enjoy people-watching while you dine. Many cafés offer set menus that include coffee, juice, and a selection of pastries or savory dishes. Don't rush your meal. Parisians take their time over food, and brunch is the perfect opportunity to adopt this relaxed pace of life.
Shopping for Essentials at Monoprix
Monoprix, often described as a French Target, became my go-to spot for essentials. It's a great place to pick up items you might have forgotten or need for your stay.
I found bedding, towels, and washcloths to make my Airbnb more comfortable. When staying in a vacation rental, it's not uncommon to need a few extra comforts.
Monoprix also stocks a variety of French snacks and beauty products, making it a fun place to explore local brands. It's a practical stop for any solo traveler settling into their Parisian home away from home.
Eiffel Tower and Beyond
No trip to Paris is complete without visiting its most famous landmark. Here's how I spent a day exploring the Eiffel Tower and surrounding areas.
Morning Strolls in the Park
Starting the day with an Uber ride to the Eiffel Tower area, I was ready to embrace this iconic Parisian experience.
The park surrounding the tower is perfect for a morning walk. It offers different perspectives of the iron structure and plenty of photo opportunities.
Take your time to explore the various paths and gardens. The tranquility of the park in the early hours provides a stark contrast to the bustling city beyond.
Savoring Craft Fairs by the Seine
Along the river, I discovered a delightful craft and food fair. These pop-up markets are common in Paris and offer a taste of local culture.
Browse handmade crafts, artisanal foods, and unique souvenirs. It's a great way to support local artisans and find one-of-a-kind gifts.
Don't hesitate to try some of the food offerings. From fresh pastries to gourmet cheeses, these fairs are a foodie's paradise.
Dining at Le Procope
For lunch, I treated myself to a meal at Le Procope, Europe's oldest continuously running restaurant. Despite its historical significance, the prices were surprisingly reasonable.
The menu offers a mix of traditional French cuisine and more modern dishes. It's a chance to dine where historical figures like Voltaire and Benjamin Franklin once sat.
The service was impeccable, adding to the overall experience. It's proof that solo dining in Paris can be just as enjoyable as sharing a meal with companions.
Daily Life in Paris
Settling into a routine in Paris allows you to experience the city like a local. Here's how I navigated daily life in the City of Lights.
Embracing Paris Cafe Culture
Parisian cafes became my office away from home. Many offer free Wi-Fi, making them perfect for catching up on work or planning your next adventure.
Order a café crème and a croissant, and you'll blend right in with the locals. It's common to see people lingering for hours over a single cup of coffee.
Use this time to people-watch, practice your French, or simply soak in the atmosphere. It's a quintessential Parisian experience that shouldn't be missed.
For more travel planning tips, including how to find the best cafes, check out these ChatGPT prompts for travel planning.
Solo Female Travel Safety Tips
As a woman traveling alone, I always prioritized safety. Here are some tips I found helpful:
Stay aware of your surroundings, especially at night.
Use reputable transportation options like official taxis or ride-sharing apps.
Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
Trust your instincts. If a situation feels uncomfortable, remove yourself.
Learn a few key French phrases for emergencies.
Remember, while Paris is generally safe, it's always better to err on the side of caution.
Navigating Parisian Dining Hours
Adjusting to Parisian dining hours can be tricky for travelers. Most restaurants don't open for dinner until 7 PM or later.
If you're hungry earlier, look for cafes or brasseries that serve food throughout the day. Many offer a "menu du jour" or daily special that's both delicious and affordable.
For late-night dining, consider ordering in or stocking up on supplies from local markets. It's a great way to enjoy a quiet meal in the comfort of your accommodation.
Departing Paris
All good things must come to an end, and saying goodbye to Paris was bittersweet. Here's how my Parisian adventure concluded.
Train Station Mix-Up
My departure hit a snag when I realized I had misunderstood my train station information. Always double-check your departure details!
I had planned to leave from Gare de Lyon, but my train was actually departing from Gare de l'Est. These stations are on opposite sides of the city.
Thankfully, I figured out the mistake in time and made it to the correct station. It's a reminder to always verify your travel details, especially when navigating a foreign city.
For stress-free train travel in Europe, consider booking through Rail Europe.
Final Thoughts on Solo Travel Paris
Reflecting on my week in Paris, I'm amazed at how much I accomplished and experienced as a solo traveler.nnFrom navigating public transportation to dining alone in historic restaurants, each day brought new challenges and rewards.
Solo travel in Paris allowed me to set my own pace, indulge my interests, and truly immerse myself in the Parisian way of life.
Saying Au Revoir to the City of Lights
As I boarded my train, I felt a mix of sadness to leave and excitement for future adventures.
Paris had lived up to its reputation as the City of Lights, illuminating not just its streets but also my spirit of independence and exploration.
I left with a suitcase full of memories, a camera roll of beautiful moments, and a burning desire to return. Au revoir, Paris. Until we meet again!
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