Paris, the City of Light, deserves a little organization before you leave! Whether you’re traveling for the first time or are already a lover of the capital, it’s important to follow a checklist before your stay. Thanks to this checklist, you’ll avoid the unexpected and get the most out of your trip. In fact, a little preparation will save you precious time once you’re there.

Here’s our complete checklist for a worry-free trip to Paris. Follow each point carefully, and you’ll be ready for an unforgettable experience.

🌦️ 1. Check the weather before you go

First of all, check the weather forecast on the official Météo France website. The climate in Paris can be unpredictable: it can rain in the morning, be sunny in the afternoon, then shower in the evening. What’s more, seasons change fast! For example, in 2025, a huge hailstorm surprised residents in the spring, followed by a summer heatwave.

Tip: always carry a folding umbrella and a light jacket, even in summer. It’s saved me more than once on my walks along the Seine!

💳 2. Tell your bank before you leave

Next, contact your bank to inform them that you’ll be using your card abroad. Without this precaution, your card could be blocked for security reasons. This has already happened to me during my first stay in Paris: my card was refused at the restaurant, because my bank thought it was an attempt at fraud. A simple notification before departure will save you a lot of trouble.

💶 3. Take some cash with you

In Paris, cards are accepted almost everywhere, but it’s always useful to have a few euros for small expenses (bakeries, markets, public toilets, tips…). Also, avoid withdrawing too much money at once, as ATMs don’t always offer the best conversion rates.

Tip: keep your banknotes in different places in your bag for added security.

🧾 4. print out your reservations and important documents

Also, print out your plane tickets, hotel reservations, museum or train tickets. Although everything is digital, all it takes is a discharged phone or a bad connection to get stuck. A paper copy remains an asset in case of need.

👉 See also our practical guide to preparing your trip to Paris for more tips.

🚖 5. Plan your airport transfer

When you arrive in Paris, there are several options open to you: cab, bus, RER or private service. However, it all depends on your budget and arrival time. For added convenience, you can book a transfer in advance to avoid the stress of leaving the airport.

Personal tip: I tested a private shuttle from Charles-de-Gaulle to my hotel, and the service cost me little more than a cab, while being much more convenient after a long flight.

🗣️ 6. Learn a few French words

Parisians appreciate it when a visitor makes the effort to speak their language. Even a few words like “Bonjour”, “Merci”, “S’il vous plaît” can make all the difference. Indeed, politeness is an essential part of French culture. You’ll be amazed at how much more helpful people become when you try to speak a little French!

Tip: download a free application like Duolingo or Google Translate before you leave.

📱 7. Prepare your phone for France

Finally, think about how you’re going to use your phone in France. Roaming charges can be very high. We recommend buying a local SIM card, such as the Orange Holiday Europe, available at most airports and stores.

It offers a good balance between price and internet data, and allows you to call locally without excessive cost. Personally, this is what I use every time I visit, and I stay connected everywhere in Paris, even on the metro!

🏨 Where to sleep in Paris?

For a successful stay, choose a well-located, top-rated hotel. Hôtel Le Six Paris, located in the 6ᵉ arrondissement, is an excellent choice: central, quiet and close to the Jardin du Luxembourg. Its staff speak several languages and its breakfast is renowned!

🎟️ What to do in Paris once you’re there?

Once you’ve settled in, explore the capital’s must-sees: the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, Montmartre and the banks of the Seine. Book your activities in advance to avoid queues. For example, via GetYourGuide, you can book your tickets for the Eiffel Tower or a cruise on the Seine in just a few clicks.

✨ My personal experience of Paris

During my last stay, I had planned everything at the last minute. Result: blocked bank card, limited connection, and suitcase full of clothes unsuited to the weather! After this mishap, I decided to create my own checklist, and since then, my trips to Paris have gone perfectly smoothly. By preparing each point well, I’ve been able to take full advantage of the charm of Montmartre, the lively terraces and the summer evenings on the quays of the Seine.

❓ FAQ – Preparing your trip to Paris

👉 When should you start planning your trip to Paris?

Ideally, you should start planning around 3-4 weeks before departure, especially if you need to book accommodation or museum tickets.

👉 Do I need cash in Paris?

Not necessarily. Most shops accept cards, but a few euros in cash can be useful for small expenses.

👉 Which SIM card should I buy to stay connected?

The Orange Holiday Europe card remains the most popular with tourists, with 20 GB of data and calls included.

👉 Is it worth learning French before coming?

Yes, even a few simple phrases are much appreciated by Parisians. It shows your respect for the local culture.

👉 When is the best time to visit Paris?

Spring (April-May) and early autumn (September-October) are perfect: the climate is mild and the crowds lighter.

✅ Conclusion

Preparing a trip to Paris is above all a question of organization. With this comprehensive checklist, you’ll avoid oversights and make the most of every moment in the capital. Check the weather, alert your bank, print out your documents, learn a few words of French and let yourself be carried away by the Parisian magic. Bon voyage! 🇫🇷✨