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-   -   Things to do alone in Paris? (https://www.fodors.com/community/europe/things-to-do-alone-in-paris-255890/)

Eileen Sep 4th, 2002 12:46 PM

Things to do alone in Paris?
 
I'd love some suggestions for restaurants to go to alone in Paris or other interesting things to do.....I do speak fluent French.<BR><BR>Thanks!

Merilee Sep 4th, 2002 12:53 PM

Eileen, the best advice I can give you is to wear the most comfortable shoes you own and walk through every neighborhood you can. You will discover so many little gems that you would normally miss. Rue Moufettard has many cafes and shops. There's a panini shop right near the cobblestone square that is a wonderful place to stop for a panini and a crepe. One of my favorite walks was from Le Pantheon to Pere Lachaise Cemetery...I passed Le Bastille and so many wonderful little stores and the like.

aj Sep 4th, 2002 01:07 PM

Merilee,<BR><BR>Of course you will see all the main "sights" but do walk the neighborhoods and small stores. I love the Marais area. I travel with my husband but I really love the "free" time I have alone to go into the small shops and brouse. The Place des Vosges has some great shopping and there is a really nice little coffee shop on Rue de Birague before you go the Place. She has french magazines to read and there are local french women in there reading and drinking coffee. It reminded me of a french country "Barnes and Noble" only smaller and better! There are great little boutiques on the same street.

elaine Sep 4th, 2002 01:08 PM

Hi Eileen<BR>I've been to Paris both duo and solo, and it's great either way. While on my own I've never had a problem in a bistro, cafe or even top restaurant--I've almost always been treated well.<BR>When on occasion a particular shop assistant or waiter was rude, it was about them, not about me.<BR><BR>Any good guidebook can make lots of suggestions for you, and also look at the Paris information in the Destinations section of this Fodor's website. I suggest museums, strolling, eating,shopping/browsing, perhaps a boat ride, and lots of walking, especially in the 4th,5th, 6th, 7th, and 8th districts. What are your interests?<BR><BR>I have a long file on Paris; if you'd like to see it, email me.

Lesli Sep 4th, 2002 01:32 PM

Paris is great on your own; agree with Elaine that nearly all restaurants treat you well when dining alone. You will have the advantage of speaking the language fluently (my French is only passable) and so can perhaps converse with the staff!<BR><BR>If you do a search here for "paris" and "solo" or "alone" you will find *many* posts on this subject, with recommendations for restaurants, hotels, and so forth. <BR><BR>I've attended the ballet and a church concert on my own and enjoyed both very much. Museums are great alone - you can spend as much time as you like with what interests you and skip the rest. I really liked some of the smaller museums, such as the Musee de Mode, the Jacquemart-Andre, and the Marmottan.


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