When exploring one of the most romantic cities by yourself, it’s only natural to feel overwhelmed.
Paris is a place that was almost certainly designed as a backdrop for dreamy dates. Peep through your accommodation window and you’ll spot grand landmarks (the setting of many a Twinkletown kiss), frolic-worthy gardens and flower bed-adorned balconies that you’d kill to have breakfast on with a lover.
But let’s face, it solo travel is all going outside your comfort zone, and if you remember that speech from Girls, it’s where the magic happens.
So even if you’ve only recently ditched room service dinners for tables for one at a restaurant, it won’t take long for you to realise that the boulevardes, museums, bistros of Paris are just as welcoming to travellers on solo adventures.
Here are four solo travel ideas that’ll make you fall truly, madly, deeply in love with the French capital.
Go On A Day Trip Out Of Paris
While there’s plenty to explore in the neighbourhoods of Paris, once you’re out of the city you’ll see a whole different side to France.
One of the biggest pros of travelling companion-free is that you don’t have to feel guilty about doing what you want, whenever you want. What a luxury!
In well-connected Paris, the historic sights of your favourite docos are just a short day trip away. From Monet’s Garden in Giverny, and Marie-Antoinette’s former home, The Palace of Versailles to the boozy champagne houses of Reims – all you need to do is jump on a train and you’ll be there.
Dare To Eat On Your Own
Parisians are expert solo diners. Here, alfresco tables are positioned to face outwards so those with zero company can watch the world go by.
Reluctant to sit on your own? Perch at the bar of L’Avant Comptoir, a hole-in-wall restaurant and what must be the ultimate foodie destination for the solo traveller.
This quaint tapas bar will let you sample some of Paris’ finest fare in one go. Devour the foie gras hamburger, sample pig’s blood macaron and don’t miss the duck ragu pastry on a bed of courgette.
L’As Du Fallafel’s snaking queue cements its status as the falafel wrap vendor worth a try, but if you’re looking to put your feet up after a long day of exploring, take your pick of nearby restaurants – including hip eatery Frenchie.
Ditch The Map And Get Lost
Seasoned travellers will know that Paris is split up into 20 arrondissements, each with a certain je ne sais quoi. Some of the best finds are unexpected, so instead of focusing on a map take a look around.
From the boulangeries of Bastille and the artistic hub of Saint Germain and to the hills Montmartre, explore by foot and you’ll come by unique architecture, boutiques and galleries that await discovery.
However, a lesser-known beauty to be mark as a ‘must-visit’ is the Sainte-Chapelle. Come armed with a portable battery charger and empty SD card so you can take as many photos of you like of the magnifique stained glass chapel.
Rummage The Outlet Boutiques And Shop ‘Til You Drop
You haven’t shopped until you’ve shopped in Paris.
The boho-chic neighbourhood of Le Marais has a reputation for being on the exxy side, but nestled in between the independent stores and the well-known international labels of the area are an array of outlet stores.
Take your time, rummage the likes of Sandro Stock, Maje and Celine surplus stores until you’ve found that dream dress that you’ve been eyeing for the past 9 months. No one is judging – you’re on your time.
