Land with a plan
Save your hotel address, booking and arrival instructions offline. Check whether reception is staffed when you arrive; ask about luggage storage if your room is not ready. Keep your first afternoon light. Jet lag is a poor tour guide.
For a taxi, follow the airport signs to the official rank. For public transport, plan the actual airport-to-hotel journey rather than simply searching “Paris”.
- Download maps and your audio walks before leaving reliable Wi-Fi.
- Keep a second payment card separately from your wallet.
- Check your Indian bank’s overseas payment settings and fees before departure.
Tickets without the headache
Use official machines, staffed ticket desks or the Île-de-France Mobilités app. Metro–Train–RER and Bus–Tram tickets serve different networks; airport rail journeys need the appropriate airport ticket or a valid covering pass. Check the current fare and route in the official planner.
Validate your ticket and keep the pass or phone available until you have left the network. Check device compatibility before relying entirely on mobile ticketing. A charged phone is a surprisingly important travel companion.
Eat according to your rules
Decide what vegetarian means for you: eggs, dairy, animal rennet, stock and gelatine may all need checking. Jain requirements deserve a clear ingredient conversation; “vegetarian” alone does not rule out onion or garlic. Ask about halal certification if you need it.
Keep one convenient food option near your hotel and another near your day’s main stop. Use our Food section, then confirm opening hours and requirements directly. Bring a small suitable snack for the inevitable museum-to-lunch gap.
Small habits, easier days
Begin a shop or restaurant conversation with “Bonjour”, then ask for help. At a restaurant, ask for “une carafe d’eau” if you want tap water. Keep a light layer, comfortable shoes and an umbrella handy.
Compare the complete hotel cost, including any locally payable charges. Check lift access, cooling or heating, room size and cancellation conditions instead of judging solely by the distance to a landmark. Plan one main attraction per half-day and leave space for a café pause.
Sources & official links
Original editorial guidance. Check current procedures and opening hours with the linked organisations before travel. French phrases are our own translations; suggested days are editorial plans.