How I Fell in Love With Paris on My First Visit: A Solo Traveler's Guide

• Eiffel Tower: I mean, obviously—I personally have never been up inside the tower, but just gazing upon it from all angles is enough for me.

• Arc de Triomphe: Another iconic monument that you must visit on the famous street of the Champs-Elyssee. If you wish to climb to the top, it gives you, in my opinion, the best view of Paris. Be sure to go down the tunnel to reach the arc and DO NOT risk your life running across the wild roundabout traffic of Paris.

• Mont Martre Neighborhood: My personal favorite neighborhood to stay in Paris.

• Sacre-Cœur Cathedral: Provides another excellent viewpoint of the city. The shops surrounding this area are also worth visiting. It’s just a cute area to go to after an afternoon of sight-seeing.

• Fotoautomat: There are several of these around, but the famous one in Mont Martre is a lovely place to get a unique souvenir from Paris.

• Moulin Rouge: A saucier side of Paris, you can book dinner and drinks here and enjoy the show to start your night in the city.

• Galeries Lafayette: Not only an excellent place to shop, but it has a rooftop terrace with another unique view of the city.

• Notre Dame: This impressive cathedral, now restored after the massive fire that almost destroyed it, stands tall on the little Ile on the Siene. It is currently free to enter and I would recommend stopping there.

• Shakespeare and Company: Even if you aren’t a book lover, this shop has such character that anyone can appreciate its historic charm.

• The Louvre: Even more interesting following the famous heist, the Louvre is a must-see museum. It is massive, so take as much or as little time as you need in here.

• Musée d’Orsay: A less popular but equally impressive museum in Paris. I prefer some of the art here to the Louvre, so if this appeals to you, don’t miss the Museum d’Orsay.

• Au Bourguignon du Marais: A cozy, classic bistro in the heart of the Marais specializing in traditional Burgundy dishes. Think boeuf bourguignon, escargots, and a warm, old-Paris atmosphere perfect for a comforting French meal.

• Chez Mademoiselle: A charming, intimate spot serving elegant French cuisine with a modern touch. Great for a relaxed dinner date or a refined lunch after wandering the neighborhood’s boutiques.

• Marché Couvert des Enfants Rouges: Paris’ oldest covered market, filled with global food stalls, fresh produce, and local specialties. Ideal for grazing, people-watching, and grabbing a casual, flavorful lunch.

• Chez Alain Miam Miam: A cult-favorite sandwich counter inside Enfants Rouges known for giant, overflowing galettes and sandwiches made with incredible care. Expect a line—but it moves fast and is worth every minute.

• Pavillon Puebla: A dreamy, greenery-covered café and bar inside Parc des Buttes-Chaumont. Come for outdoor drinks, relaxed bites, and a summery ambiance that feels far away from the city bustle.

• Coup de Tête: A lively, modern wine bar offering natural wines and creative small plates. Friendly, unstuffy, and perfect for a casual night out with great drinks.

• Buvette Paris (brunch): A beloved, cozy brunch spot serving French-inspired comfort dishes—think eggs, waffles, tartines, and great coffee—in a romantic, vintage setting.

• 5 Pailles: A specialty coffee shop with excellent roasting, minimalist style, and quality pastries. A reliable stop for a great espresso or a slow morning.

• Buttes Snack Bar: An easygoing, sun-soaked snack bar in Buttes-Chaumont offering simple plates, drinks, and park views. Great for a casual break during your stroll.

And yes—Le Marais is packed with incredible food options, from classic bistros to concept cafés, making it one of the best neighborhoods for eating your way through Paris.