Practical

Metro & transport

·The Paris metro has 16 lines, running 5:30am to 1:15am (2:15am on weekends).
·A single t+ ticket costs €2.15 and allows metro/RER/bus connections within Paris.
·Navigo Easy (rechargeable) or Navigo Découverte are best for multi-day stays.
·RER A and B serve airports and suburbs.
·Vélib' bike-share costs €5/day, ideal for short hops.

Airports

·Charles-de-Gaulle (CDG) NE: RER B (35 min), Roissybus (60 min), flat-fare taxi €56-65.
·Orly (ORY) S: Orlyval + RER B (35 min), tram T7, flat-fare taxi €36-44.
·Beauvais (BVA) 80 km away: official shuttle 1h15 to Porte Maillot.
·Always allow 30 extra minutes for connections.

Safety & scams

·Paris is generally safe, but watch out for pickpockets in the metro and around monuments.
·Beware of classic scams: petitions, friendship bracelets in Montmartre, gold rings, shell games.
·Keep bags closed in front of you, especially on lines 1, 4, 6 and 9.
·Useful numbers: 112 (emergency), 17 (police), 15 (medical).
·At night, avoid empty stations, stick to busy streets.

Where to stay

·1st-4th arrondissements: historic core, ideal first stay.
·5th-6th (Left Bank): elegant and literary, great for couples.
·Le Marais (3rd-4th): trendy, nightlife, boutiques.
·9th (Opéra/Pigalle): practical, good value.
·Avoid northern 18th, northern 19th and parts of 10th for a first visit.

Money & tipping

·Currency is the euro. Cards accepted almost everywhere, contactless widespread.
·Service is included in restaurants — tip is appreciated but optional (€1-5).
·Free ATMs at banks, fees vary elsewhere.
·Avoid tourist exchange bureaus.

French etiquette

·Always say "Bonjour" when entering a shop, "Au revoir" when leaving.
·Even a small effort in French is hugely appreciated.
·Don't eat while walking, except for a croissant or crêpe.
·Use formal address (vous) with strangers.