Top Travel Tips from the Ryanair Team: Paris

Hi there, I’m Julien Tranchant, Marketing and PR Manager at Ryanair, for France, Benelux and Morocco.

I’ve lived in several cities and countries and have spent more than 6 years in the City of Light.

Even though I no longer live in Paris, I still feel my heart partially belongs to it. As Ernest Hemingway once wrote: “If you are lucky enough to have lived in Paris, then wherever you go for the rest of your life, it stays with you…”

Paris has many world-renowned sites to offer but be sure to lose yourself elsewhere too — that’s often where the magic happens!

Take a walk around the Seine River where you’ll see the natural island named Île Saint-Louis. You’ll also see Notre Dame, the Louvre Palace, the Pont Alexandre III bridge, the Grand Palais des Champs-Élysées, the Eiffel Tower, and more.

Did you know, the Eiffel Tower was supposed to have been destroyed just 20 years after its construction? It was built as a temporary monument for the International World Expo of 1889. Fun fact! 

It’s worth your while going to the hill of Montmartre too. The easiest way is to start at the famous Moulin Rouge, then walk by the Café des Deux Moulins (from the movie Amelie), and then through the Abbesses square, up along the hill, until the Sacré Coeur church at the very top, where a gorgeous view of the city awaits.

The 5^th district of Paris or the Latin Quarter, as we call it, since it has been the main student area since the middle-ages, is my personal favourite. You’ll find magnificent historic buildings like the Panthéon or the Sorbonne University but also cute cobblestone streets like Rue Mouffetard or the peaceful, beautiful gardens like those of the Jardin des Plantes are entirely worth a visit.

There is much to see in Paris but moving away from the city centre or main tourist sites makes for a pleasant surprise. This way, you’ll be much more likely to find some authentic experiences.

The Butte-aux-Cailles is a small hilltop neighbourhood with just a triangle of streets, but this tiny village is full of life!

The Belleville neighbourhood also feels like a little laidback city. On spring and summer evenings, take the time to walk around the Canal Saint Martin where you’ll find a very youthful and festive-like energy.

The Museum of Immigration History is a very captivating place too. It provides a key understanding of the French nation, from its various waves of immigration from all over Europe and beyond. It makes for an interesting visit and is off the beaten track.

Crêperie Le Pot O'Lait, 41 Rue Censier, 75005 Paris

Originally from the Brittany region, crêpes are probably one of the best French specialities to try, so why not go for the most delicious crêpe in all of Paris?

Le Relais de la Butte, 12 Rue Ravignan, 75018 Paris

Just picture yourself on the hill of Montmartre, in the middle of a tiny square, sitting on a restaurant terrace, overlooking the Parisienne rooftops in the distance while you sip on a glass of wine and listen to French Jazz… It’s simply dream-like. Oh, and the traditional French dishes are delightful too!

Le Bouillon Chartier, 7 Rue du Faubourg Montmartre, 75009 Paris

This typical French brasserie will bring you back in time to the early 20^th century, all while you enjoy great food at an affordable price, and above all, within a terrific atmosphere.

Ground Control, 81 Rue du Charolais, 75012 Paris

A trendy space within an old post office, you’ll find various cosy spots to get food and drink. It’s lively and unique!

Wanderlust, 32 Quai d'Austerlitz, 75013 Paris

On top of the modern French Fashion Institute (IFM) is a rooftop with a view over the Seine River. In the summer, take the time to enjoy a chilled white wine on the terrace during late afternoon — it’s a must.

The 11^th District is full of choice when it comes to going out, even more so around Oberkampf Street. The Seine River also offers plenty of houseboats where you can enjoy a meal by its beautiful surroundings.

So, I hope you enjoy the city of Paris. It’s full of wonders but above all, the experiences and atmosphere you’ll experience will provide plenty of great memories!