solo trip in france

10 Best Places in France for Solo Travel

France is the most popular tourist destination in the whole world , so there’s a good chance that any solo trip to Europe this year will take in a stop in France.

This Western Europe powerhouse has timeless appeal thanks to its elegant architecture, world-class cuisine, and incredible museums. It’s the largest country in Europe – and there’s a surprising amount of variety in its landscapes once you get out of the cities. 

And oh what cities they are. Any trip to France will surely include a visit to Paris, but don’t miss some of the country’s smaller cities. Use them as a base to discover the surrounding region (and its castles and vineyards) – Nice or Cassis for exploring the French Riviera , for example. Or Strasbourg for the Alsace. 

France is easy to get around thanks to its excellent train network, which is one of the densest in the world. Prices for the faster direct lines such as the TGV can be expensive so stick to the slow, rural routes if you’re looking to save money.

Even travellers on a budget can eat well in France though (as long as you’re a carb fiend, at least). Expect a lot of croissants, crepes, and croque monsieur. Then there’s the cheese!

France has a good selection of hostels, including an increasing number of design hostels in urban areas (prices for a bed can be eye-watering in the summer months though). It has a long-standing tradition of youth hostels ( auberge de jeunesse in French), so even in smaller more out-of-the-way places, you’re likely to find a cheap bed – an HI membership might be required. Off the tourist trail it helps to speak a few words of French.

The City of Light is one of Europe’s unmissable cities. It’s also one of the largest. Any trip to Paris must take in its iconic sights; the Eiffel Tower, the Arc de Triomphe, the Louvre, the Notre Dame cathedral and a stroll along the banks of the Seine, the Opera Garnier, the Pompidou Centre, Montmartre and the Sacre Couer cathedral, and the Moulin Rouge.

It’s well worth an extra few days in Paris to take advantage of day trips to Champagne and the Château de Versailles.

Paris is one of the best cities in the world for shopping and eating so be prepared to watch those euros disappear. Hostels don’t come cheap either, but they do tend to be modern.

St Christopher’s Inn Gare du Nord is one of the most popular hostels in Paris. It’s located near the Gare du Nord train station so perfect if you want to roll off the Eurostar or the train from Charles de Gaulle airport. It’s a large hostel with a bar, better for party animals than those looking for a quiet night.

Highly-rated Les Paules Hostel is in the arty area of Belleville and is run by a team of locals. It has a boutique decor, art deco building, and a friendly vibe. The rooftop terrace has an amazing view of the city and Sacre Couer.

The city of Nice on France’s Mediterranean coast makes a great city break in the spring when the days are starting to warm up. It’s the gateway to the French Riviera and has long been a tourist destination thanks to its temperate climate. 

Nice is famous for its pebble beach and the Promenade des Anglais which runs alongside it, surrounded by vast and colourful 19th-century mansions. What you might not know is that Nice also a great destination for art – Matisse was a former resident. It has a lively cafe-bar scene and the food is excellent.

It’s well connected by rail to other destinations along the coast, including Cannes and Monaco, but is significantly cheaper and the airport is well-served by budget airlines. It’s often one of the cheapest entry points if flying from London. Hop on the train to reach the better beaches.

Stay at Villa Saint Exupery Beach is a cross between a hostel and a hotel, with private rooms, a bar, and a gym also available. There’s no outdoors space but it’s not far from the beach.

Wine buffs will want to make a pit stop in Bordeaux, surely a contender for wine capital of the world. It’s the second-largest wine-growing region in the world, and it also produces some of the world’s best and most well-known wines. In other words, it’s the perfect place for wine-tasting. Tours to nearby vineyards are easily arranged.

And then there’s La Cité du Vin, Bordeaux’s shiny new world-class wine centre on the banks of the Garonne.

This west coast beauty is also noted for its elegant historic buildings, bridges, and palaces. It’s a vibrant and laid-back university city with a happening cultural scene. Football fans, cyclists, shopaholics and foodies will also be happy here.

The best hostel in town is Central Hostel which is boutique style with Moroccan textiles, pod beds, and comfortable mattresses. It’s expensive though – the alternative is the cheaper and friendly Hostel 20 Bordeaux .

Annecy is not quite a household name, but this stunning medieval town- known as the Venice of France – is one of the prettiest fairytale towns in the country. The classic image of Annecy is that of the canals which surround its 14th-century chateau (which is open to the public as a museum).

As well as its picture-perfect streets, there are plenty of activities available in the lake or surrounding mountains – rowing boats, hiking, kayaking, and hangliding to name just a few.

Annecy is located in the Haute-Savoie region of the Alps – famous for its cheese and butter – alongside Lac d’Annecy which seems to glow an emerald colour. It’s easiest to reach Annecy from Geneva or Grenoble.

Annecy Hostel is a bit dated and in need of a refresh, though scores highly for friendliness, atmosphere, and staff. 

If Bordeaux is the French capital of wine, then Lyon is the capital of food. It’s the third-largest city in France and is recognised by the UNESCO for its wealth of buildings from all points in its history (dating back to the Romans in the 1st century BC). In December it comes alive with its popular City of Lights display.

Old Lyon is one of the largest Renaissance areas in Europe, with many narrow streets, hidden courtyards, and secret passageways (known as traboules ). But Lyon also a popular commercial hub with modern districts and hipster delights.

But back to the food – Lyon’s Rhone location means access to some of the finest produce in the land. It’s known for bouchons , a type of small bistro that you only find in Lyon, and long-standing culinary traditions. And as of 2019, there are 20 Michelin-starred restaurants in Lyon. Not a place to come on a diet.

There’s a tough choice between two great hostels in the city.

Away Hostel is a bright and airy design hostel with wooden pod beds and a welcome drink. Private rooms are available. It’s friendly but not a party hostel.

SLO Living Hostel is equally as beautiful, with homemade dinners and pancake breakfasts available.

If you prefer urban grit and authenticity to holiday villages and tourist traps then France’s second-biggest city Marseille is right up your street. Situated on the Mediterranean coast and founded in 600BC, Marseille has been an important port for over 200o years.

And now it makes a fascinating alternative city break. This City of Rogues is a melting pot with a distinct influence from Algeria and other former French colonies. Gentrification is on the march but you can still find neighbourhoods which look like they haven’t changed in centuries.

Fans of modern architecture will love the Museum (Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilisations). A street art tour is an excellent way to discover the creative side of the city.

The foodie highlight is the famous fish stew bouillabaisse – but don’t expect it to come cheap, with prices upwards of €40. And don’t miss a trip to the stunning Calanques National Park for its epic rock formations.

Marseille does have a reputation for being a bit seedy and unsafe, solo travellers might feel more comfortable taking a taxi or Uber after dark.

Pitch up at  Vertigo Vieux-Port Hostel which is in the Old Port area and has dorms decorated by local artists. B&Bs and guesthouses are also affordable in Marseille – Pension Edelweiss is cute and welcoming.

Outdoorsy travellers will want to make a beeline straight for the majestic peaks of the Alps, which is a top destination whatever time of year you visit. In the summertime the hiking is unparalleled, and there’s also a feast of activites such as mountain biking. But the Alps is most famous as the best winter sports destination in Europe.

Thankfully solo travellers aren’t forgotten when it comes to skiing in the Alps – check out the concept hostel Moontain . This chalet-hostel-hotel at once cosy and industrial-chic, with modern design and pod beds. It’s located in the small town of Oz, not far from the popular ski resort town Alpes d’Huez.

The resort vibe is more family-friendly than hardcore après-ski , but it even comes with its own app to encourage guests to socialise and organise events.

If you’re after small-and-chic summer vacay vibes, rather than the bustle of a big city, then beautiful Côte d’Azur town Cassis is for you. 

Popular with sailors and writers, this magical little harbour town is popular lined with colourful buildings and restaurants serving seafood and rose wine. There are beaches within walking distances, and boat trips to the Calanques National Park available.

For accommodation, it’s a toss-up between super cute Mini Hostel which is decorated in summery blues and whites with a charming patio, and Cassis Hostel which is villa-style with a pool and sea views.

Strasbourg may not be the first place that springs to mind when you think of fairytale architecture, its better known as the home of modern European bureaucracy (!).

But Strasbourg has a UNESCO-listed historic centre – Petite France – and is the capital of the Alsace region which a popular for its beautiful half-timbered houses and excellent wine and beer. The Beauty and the Beast vibes are strong here – and you can’t miss the dramatic cathedral.

 Train and bus links are excellent, and its an ideal base for exploring Alsace.

Ciarus is the only hostel in Strasbourg – it’s large and modern though feels a tad institutional. However, hotel rooms in the city are good value.

One of the most underrated destinations in France is the coastal city of Biarritz in the Basque Country. Located on the Atlantic Coast not far from the Spanish border, in centuries past Biarritz was a spa town and glam coastal resort popular with the country’s elite for its beaches and casinos.

Though it went through a neglected phase in the 20th century, Biarritz is having a hipster revival – these days it’s one of Europe’s best beach cities and surf destinations.

The best place in Biarritz for solo travellers is Nami House which is located outside town in a traditional Basque house and hosts plenty of social activities such as BBQs and surf lessons. 

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Paris (spring): By Samot / Shutterstock

Paris (fall): By ESB Professional / Shutterstock

Nice: © saiko3p / Adobe Stock

Bordeaux: © Alexander Demyanenko / Shutterstock

Annecy: © karp5 / Shutterstock

Lyon: © Southtownboy Studio / Shutterstock

Marseille: © S-F / Shutterstock

Alpes: © Kartouchken / Shutterstock

Cassis: © Boris Stroujko / Shutterstock

Strasbourg: © Southtownboy Studio / Shutterstock

Biarritz: © Dutourdumonde Photography / Shutterstock

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Solo travel in france: a personal guide.

Are you looking for the perfect destination for your first solo trip ? Or maybe you are a seasoned solo traveller seeking inspiration.

France is the most visited country in the world and a wonderful destination for those travelling alone. It is also a country I love and have visited solo more times than I can count.

Whether you are a foodie, culture vulture, beach bunny or history fangirl/fanboy, there is something for every type of single traveller. Get the lowdown in my France solo travel guide. Discover why you should visit, the top solo travel destinations, how to get around and more.

Some articles on this website contain affiliate links. This means that I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through these links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases . Read the full disclosure here .

IN THIS ARTICLE

France is Superb for Solo Travel

France is one of the best solo travel destinations in Europe , even if you are travelling alone for the first time. It is safe, has a good transport infrastructure and activities to suit every solo traveller.

Food and wine – France has a deserved reputation as one of the foodie capitals of Europe. If there was ever a country to try wine-tasting this is it.

Rich culture – This is one of Europe’s most culturally rich countries. Whether you want to gaze at the Mona Lisa in The Louvre or sing along to the Arctic Monkeys at the Nimes Festival, there’s something for everyone.

Rich history – France is home to almost 50 World Heritage sites, from the Palace of Versailles to the Cathedral at Chartres

Diverse landscapes – From vertiginous canyons to salt flats, jagged mountain peaks to sand dunes, there is an array of landscapes packed into this country.

Transport infrastructure – It’s easy to travel around France by train or bus if you are not hiring a car. For places that public transport doesn’t reach, there’s usually a day tour you can join.

Plentiful accommodation – As France is a popular tourist destination, solo travellers shouldn’t struggle to find somewhere to stay.

Easy for English speakers –France welcomes visitors from across the globe and English is widely used as a second language. That said, it doesn’t hurt to learn a little French.

France is Safe for Solo Female Travellers

Personal safety is a priority for female solo travellers.   France is considered to be safe for women travelling alone. I’ve never had any problems travelling there.   Although violent crime is rare, the cities do suffer from nimble-fingered pickpockets. As with any destination, don’t make yourself a target.   Keep your belongings safe. Stash your valuables at your accommodation and use an anti-theft backpack when you are out and about. I use  this PacSafe backpack  which has anti-RFID technology and a hidden pocket.   Stick to familiar streets after dark and make sure that you know your way back to your hotel or apartment. In the big cities, quiz your hotel concierge about local risks.   Above all, trust your instincts. If something doesn’t feel right, remove yourself from the situation.

Popular Solo Travel Destinations in France

Pulling together a definitive list of places to visit alone in France is nigh on impossible.

All 13 regions of this large country have something to offer and you could spend a lifetime exploring their attractions. Each time I visit I make discoveries.

Instead, I have focused on the most popular French solo travel destinations, sprinkled with a few of my favourites. If you like to map it out, here’s one I prepared earlier:

I have a love-hate relationship with France’s capital.  

On the one hand, I find it busy, dirty, traffic-clogged and expensive. But after a visit to a favourite museum or a slap-up meal in a Parisian bistro, all is forgiven.

Paris is stuffed with iconic landmarks from the Pantheon to the Eiffel Tower. But I like the lower-key activities such as wandering along the Seine, watching kids sail their boats in Jardin du Luxembourg or walking the Paris Highline.

It’s also a great base for a day trip to Chartres, the Palace of Versailles and Amiens, to name but a few places.

2. Champagne region

One of the best solo activities in France is wine tasting and you can sample some of the best in the Champagne region, 100 miles east of Paris. 

Although you can do a DIY champagne tour of Reims as a day trip from the capital, I recommend staying overnight. This will allow you to visit the UNESCO-listed Reims Cathedral or take a side trip to Epernay.

Alsace wines are criminally underrated but there’s more to this region in eastern France than tasting the nectar of the grapevine (although that’s not a bad start). Hugging the border with Germany, the Alsace’s exquisite architecture is a legacy of the region yoyoing between the two countries over a 200-year period.

With its cobbled streets and pastel-hued, half-timbered houses lining small canals, Colmar is a feast for the eyes . The UNESCO World Heritage site of Strasbourg historic centre is also picture-book pretty and its cathedral is the second-most visited in France.

4. Normandy

Normandy is often ignored by northern Europeans in their haste to reach the delights of Provence, the Languedoc or Côte D’Azur. This is a shame because this part of France has much to offer visitors, from its spectacular coastline to its charming towns and villages.

Gorgeous Honfleur is a perfect base for exploring Normandy . From here, you can visit Etretat, Deauville, Villerville and the D-Day Landing Beaches .

This is a region of France where the car is king. But you can visit Normandy on a day trip from Paris that includes the D-Day beaches.

5. Brittany

Brittany is on a peninsula in the northwest corner of France, jutting out into the Atlantic Ocean like a pointing finger. Like Normandy, a car is your best friend here but it is a region that offers something for everyone.

St. Malo on Brittany’s rugged coast has a rich seafaring legacy. You can enjoy the seafood that the region is known for in historic cities such as Brest , Quimper and Vannes .

But my favourite place in Brittany is the medieval riverside town of Dinan with its narrow cobbled streets, lined with pretty half-timbered houses.

6. Loire Valley

The Loire Valley is the stuff of fairy tales.

Located on the frontier between northern and southern France, and a short rail journey from Paris, you can easily include this historic region into most France solo travel itineraries. Its main hubs are Orléans, Blois, Tours and Angers.

This is where the nobility established feudal castles and pleasure palaces. As a result, this river valley is dotted with some of France’s most sumptuous aristocratic estates, attesting to over a thousand years of architectural creativity.

Oenophiles won’t feel short-changed. The Loire Valley wines are amongst the best in France. 

7. Provence

There is something for every solo traveller in Provence.

The region’s architectural wonders, such as the Palais des Papes in Avignon , are a lasting legacy of its rich history. These are equalled by its natural wonders, like the famous Calanques near Marseilles or its acres of lavender fields .

Better still, it’s easy to explore Provence by train . You’ll just need to join a day trip to see the famous lavender fields.

8. Bordeaux

Bordeaux, on the Garonne River in southwestern France, is the hub of the eponymous wine-growing region . The city has a spectacular museum dedicated to wine – Cité du Vin – and hosts a famous wine festival every summer.

Use Bordeaux as a base to visit the vineyards of Saint Émilion , or Arcachon and Dune du Pilat . Both of these day trips are doable by train.

9. Occitanie

Languedoc-Roussillon , or Occitanie, is one of my favourite regions in France. It stretches from the Rhone Valley in the east to the Spanish border in the southwest and includes the western Mediterranean coast of France.

The region is not short of historic cities.

I have a soft spot for Nimes with its superb Roman remains, and Albi and its immense red-brick cathedral. Other highlights include the pink city of Toulouse and the famous fortified city of Carcassonne .

And if it’s a spot of R&R you are after, head to enchanting Collioure on the Roussillon coast.

10. French Riviera

Also known as the Côte d’Azur, the French Riviera is all about glamorous resorts. If you are a solo beach bunny, this could be the region of France for you.

So, don that sunhat and those sunglasses, and an air of sophistication, and people-watch on the beach of Nice or stroll the boardwalks of Cannes and Monaco .

I prefer the lower-key town of Menton . It equals – or exceeds – the beauty of the better-known coastal towns, but attracts a fraction of the crowds.

Featuring grand cobblestoned squares lined with exuberant Baroque buildings, Lille is one of France’s best-kept secrets. And thanks to its excellent rail connections, it is easy to take a day trip to Lille from other major cities, including London via Eurostar.

I’ve twice used it as a France solo city break.

Lille is in Northern France, close to the Belgian border and around 140 miles from Paris. It is the so-called capital of French Flanders and Flemish influences are evident throughout the city, from its architecture to its food.

For culture vultures, the city is home to Palais des Beaux-Arts , a fine art gallery second only to the Louvre in Paris in size and stature. But for a unique experience, take the short metro journey to La Piscine Museum in Roubaix. This modern art museum is housed within a former glorious Art Deco swimming pool.

When to Visit

France is a year-round solo travel destination. Its climate is not a major consideration.

Northern France – like the UK, this can be wet and unpredictable.

Western France –  tempered by the proximity of the Atlantic, this is subject to storms and close thundery days

Central & Eastern France – more reliable weather with colder winters and hotter summers

South of France – short winters and long, hot summers long. Perfect for soaking up the sun on the Côte D’Azur,

However, there are a few times of the year when I would steer clear of France .

As many French people vacation in their own country, think twice about visiting during the main French holiday periods – mid-July to the end of August.

Groups of European schoolkids descend on Paris at Easter in Paris. And if you are a solo skier, school groups also favour the February ski break.

Getting Around

I have travelled around France by train many times. It has the most extensive train network in Western Europe and the national rail company, SNCF (Société Nationale des Chemins de Fer), runs fast, efficient trains between the main towns.  

The poster child of SNCF is the high-speed TGV , capable of speeds of up to 300kph. Seat reservations are compulsory. These trains can fill up, especially around weekends, and holidays.

Intercité trains are also a good option. These are trains plying intercity routes not yet upgraded to TGV. While they are not as fast, they are modern and comfortable and have restaurant cars.

The slower, regional express trains (TER) meander from the likes of Paris to Provence, Lyon to the Loire or Brittany to Bourgogne.

You can buy tickets online or at train stations (I use self-service machines which have instructions in English).

Using an Interrail pass in France has saved me money on rail travel. However, this does not excuse you from the reservation fee for high-speed services. SNCF also offers rail passes .

However, if you’re taking just a few train rides and are able to commit to dates and times in advance, take advantage of advance-purchase discounts on point-to-point train tickets.

Here’s an excellent overview of rail travel in France .

I haven’t found buses to be very useful for my solo France itineraries. Although they cover the parts that trains don’t reach, services can be sporadic with awkward departure times.

On an organised tour

To reach places that are more off the beaten track, or to maximise your time in France, a day tour can be an excellent solution. Excursions are also a good way for you to meet other people as a solo traveller. 

I book my day tours through GetYourGuide . I like the booking interface, there’s an easy-to-use app and their tours usually come with a generous free cancellation window.

>>> EXPLORE DAY TOURS IN FRANCE HERE

Small Group Tours of France

Although I have been an independent solo traveller for many years, I am a fan of small group tours .

Your tour operator takes care of all the arrangements on the group’s behalf. These include transportation, accommodation and most activities.

It’s a time-efficient way of exploring a country and, if you are concerned about the spectre of solo travel loneliness , you will have ready-made travel companions.

Here are some options from a few of my favourite small group tour companies :

Paris & Normandy Highlights

Normandy is tricky to explore on public transport and this G-Adventure National Geographic tour offers a way to hit the region’s highlights with ease. Bookended by Paris, it explores Bayeux, Rouen, Honfleur , the D-Day Beaches, Mont St-Michel and the gardens at Giverny .

This trip is for you if you are looking for a comfortable experience with upgraded accommodation and meals , and a diverse selection of sights.

>>> CLICK HERE TO FIND OUT MORE

Cycle Provence

Few things are more quintessentially French than cycling through the lavender fields of Provence, another area of France that is not well served by public transport. This 8-day tour takes you to the heart of Provence, visiting hilltop villages and vineyards and exploring the region’s Roman heritage . E-bikes are available at an extra cost.

London to Bordeaux, the Basque Country and the Beach

Do you want a relaxing rail itinerary that combines cities and beaches ?

This 7-day adventure starts at the Eurostar terminal at London St. Pancras and finishes in the sunny city of Málalga . It’s a terrific journey visiting Bordeaux, San Sebastian and Segovia . You also get to walk part of the famous Camino de Santiago .

Where to Stay

Choosing the right place to stay is key to the success of a solo trip. As well as being comfortable and welcoming, it needs to be in a safe location.  

Outside of the busy times of the year (mid-July until the end of August), you can turn up in any French town or city and find a room or apartment. However, booking some accommodation can be reassuring, sets your budget in advance and gives you the pick of the best places.

In French cities, there is a range of accommodation to suit all budgets. In smaller towns, your options may be confined to more expensive establishments.

Hotels in Paris can be eye-wateringly expensive.  

More Solo Travel Advice

France ticks so many boxes for those travelling alone. It is a safe and beautiful country, packed with cultural attractions and epic landscapes, and is easy to get around.

If you need more help with planning your perfect solo trip to France, take a look at these articles before you go:

• 17 Essential Safety Tips for Travelling Alone
• The 25 Best Ways to Beat Solo Travel Loneliness
• 20 Easy Ways to Meet People While Travelling Alone
• The Secret to Successful Solo Dining: 21 Tips To Make Eating Out Alone Fun

About Bridget

Bridget Coleman has been a passionate traveller for more than 30 years. She has visited 70+ countries, most as a solo traveller.

Articles on this site reflect her first-hand experiences.

To get in touch, email her at [email protected] or follow her on social media.

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13 Best Solo Travel Destinations In France For 2023

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If you don't know by now, France is a great travel destination with so much to see and do. For solo travelers looking to traipse about this stunning country, you'll be glad to know that France is a solo traveler's paradise no matter the time of year. With an abundance of must-see attractions, boutique accommodations, and user-friendly public transportation, there's no reason why you shouldn’t check out France this year . That said, to assist you in your solo exploration , here are the 13 best solo travel destinations in France for 2023.

UPDATE: 2023/01/13 12:41 EST BY SERA PARRIS

France is a beautiful country that wanderlusters should explore to the fullest extent. The original article covers several amazing solo travel destinations like Paris, Nice, and Normandy. A few more solo travel-friendly cities were added to this list for 2023 because it's a new year, and there are definitely new places to see.

Located just off the water, Nice is the perfect solo vacation spot. Here, California vibes meet European influence, making for a lively city filled with markets, shopping, boardwalks, beaches, and more. Another perk is that Nice is also conveniently located next to the airport, which makes getting around much easier for solo explorers. Plus, there's an abundance of amazing cities and attractions to check out in the South of France if you want to continue exploring this particular region. A recommended day trip from Nice to St. Tropez or a Mediterranean coastal sightseeing tour is a fantastic way to see more here this summer.

Related: Top 10 Places To Visit In The South Of France

Cannes is another beautiful location in France for solo travel. In this resort town off the French Rivera, visitors can easily spend all day relaxing on stunning beaches and living the good life. In addition to lounging on the French Rivera , you can grab a delicious bite to eat at any of the fantastic restaurants in the area, indulge in world-renowned shopping, and then check out this city's legendary nightlife scene. Of course, for those who prefer something a little different, there is always something going on in Cannes, usually in the way of festivals, especially in late summer or the fall. So, if you’re more of a festival-goer than a beach-goer, Cannes is still a great option to consider.

Alsace is a wonderful spot to check out for those planning a solo trip to France later in the year, especially during the holiday season. Not only are the Christmas Markets in this part of Europe a must-see, but Alsace itself feels like a winter wonderland in December. Yet another perk of Alsace is the wines. While visiting, solo wanders should also make it a point to stop by the local castle and nearby beautiful villages. This particular area of France is a real treat, especially during this time, so be sure to get in on the holiday fun. That said, if you opt to make the journey to Alsace before the Christmas season, you can still enjoy all the beauty this place offers and, of course, all the wine.

Who doesn't love the city of love and lights? Sure, you may think you need a travel buddy to truly enjoy Paris, but with delicious pastries, Michelin-star restaurants, cafés, and more, Paris is the perfect place for not sharing half of your food with someone. Besides, Paris is the must-see city in France, and you haven't truly traversed the globe if you haven't visited this marvel at least once or twice. So check out the cool cafés, the Louvre (plus all the other museums in Paris), or simply get lost walking around the city. Not only is Paris super easy to get around thanks to its public transportation, but you can also take the train into or out of this destination with ease.

Related: Paris Vs. Nice: Which French Destination Is Best For You?

Wine lovers, especially red, can rejoice here. Bordeaux is essentially the heartland of good French red wine, and this city isn’t afraid to show it. While sampling your way through this delightful region, stop by La Cité du Vin , an actual museum entirely dedicated to the love and appreciation of wine. Of course, you don't have to be passionate about wine, or red wine for that matter, to enjoy a little me time in Bordeaux. Instead, you can enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of this French city any time of the year and admire the surrounding area/countryside.

A staple on Conde Nast's list of the ten most beautiful towns in France, Colmar is a gorgeous solo destination that needs to be checked off your bucket list. Known as the likely inspiration for Belle's village in Disney's Beauty and the Beast, Colmar is a little town and a quiet village that you can easily explore in a few days. While visiting, make sure you add these items to your itinerary: stop by Petite Venise , check out St. Martin's Church , see the works at Musee Bartholdi, marvel at the Pfister House paintings , and visit one of Colmar's unique attractions— a Statue of Liberty .

Only an hour's train ride from London, Lille is the perfect little spot for a day trip for solo travelers. This quaint little town is pedestrian-friendly, rather inviting, and an absolute treat to explore on your own. Lille also has a beautiful main square with a rich history, holiday markets, bookable activities, wonderful cafés, shops, galleries, and so much more. For Wanderers looking to spend more than a day in Lille, this cultural hub is a great destination with a superb overall selection of accommodations available.

6 Champagne

Who doesn't enjoy a good old-fashioned sip and see, right? Well, this is exactly what solo wanders can do here. Champagne is a gorgeous city in France that is known for — obviously, champagne. Thus, solo travelers can appreciate some of the world's best wines, get in a bubbly tasting or two, check out some of the high-end champagne house names, and enjoy their own company. Here, visitors can also partake in bike or walking tours, scenic train rides, historical sightseeing, delightful champagne picnics, and more.

5 Versailles

To see the Palace of Versailles in person in all its glory should be reason enough alone for any traveler to add this world-renowned city to their solo travel bucket list. With a rich and important history, stunning works of art, an abundance of museums, and fascinating facts about the French Revolution and King Louis XIV, Versailles is a city that is sure to keep you busy. But that's not all; Versailles has lovely accommodations, ample history tours, must-try cuisine, and a surprisingly fun nightlife scene.

One of the bigger cities in France is Lyon. That said, solo visitors shouldn't be deterred so easily. This picture-perfect French town is home to some of the most world-famous attractions, including the ancient Roman Amphitheater and the breathtaking Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière — just to name a few. So for wanders who love history and snapping pictures, Lyon is an excellent option. There are quaint inns, cafés, great bars, rave-worthy eateries, and much more in Lyon. So, don't be afraid to carve out a few days so you can explore this incredible city.

3 Loire Valley

Fairy-tale and castle enthusiasts should also check out the town of Loire Valley while out and about in the beautiful country of France. Here, solo visitors can easily get lost in all the unbelievably stunning 15th and 16th-century French chateaus . Loire Valley also has more than a few castles and impressive architecture to marvel at, including Château d'Ussé , which is rumored to be the inspo for Sleeping Beauty. So, if this sounds like your cup of tea or glass of champagne, then Loire Valley awaits you.

For history buffs, Normandy is an excellent choice. Here, solo travelers can learn all about this destination's history in World War II, D-Day, and the famous Mont Saint Michel . But that's not all; the one thing Normandy isn't short on is history. So visitors will have more than a few things to see and do. It is worth noting, however, that this excellent solo vaca spot is at its best during the summer months—so make sure you plan accordingly. Here, wanders can make this history having a day trip from Paris and getting the best of both worlds. Other activities to partake in while visiting include seeing Claude Monet's House and Garden and checking out the stunning view at the Etretat Cliffs .

Finally, for solo travelers looking for it all and then some, Corsica offers something for everyone, including over 2,500+ native species of wildflowers . So if you want to spend all your time at the beach, sampling the best regional vintage, or simply want to know all there is about this country's past, Corsica won't disappoint. Not only is this famed city the birthplace of Napoleon , but it is also home to some of the world’s fanciest beach resorts with out-of-this-world cuisine plus free-flowing beachside cocktails and unctuous wines. Known as a French island with an Italian soul, foodies will feel right at home. Like so many islands, Corsica has an independent character and culture all to its own, which should speak to the solo traveler in all of us and definitely makes it worth exploring.

• Destinations

Travels with Erica

A Solo Traveller's Guide to the World

9 Epic Tips for Travelling Alone in France

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Travelling alone in France is one of the most incredible travel experiences you can have!

The country has a rich culture, a variety of architecture depending where in the country you are, and it is super easy to travel alone in France.

You can even visit France on your first solo trip and get by without a hitch!

If you’re looking for the perfect European country for your solo travel adventure , look no further than France!

There are a few important things you need to know before you visit France alone though!

Lucky for you I’ve been to France many times and have made a number of mistakes while travelling alone in France.

I’m going to share my top tips and tricks for the perfect solo trip to France, so you can be prepared for your trip.

You’ll be an expert and ready to explore France in no time!

Just going to Paris? Check out my guide to solo travel in Paris to prepare!

Table of Contents

1. Get Outside of Paris

One of the biggest mistakes you can make on your trip to France (whether you’re alone in France or with a group) is staying in Paris the entire time.

I definitely made this mistake the first time I visited France, and I regret it.

Don’t be like me!

Paris is just a small slice of France, and the rest of the country has so much to offer! Every area of France is unique and a different experience.

As with many of the major cities in the world, Paris doesn’t give you a genuine sense of what France is like.

It is a taste of France, but you have to try more than one dish to get the full experience!

If you don’t have a lot of time in France or you’re nervous about travelling between cities, taking a day trip from Paris is a great option.

You will be surprised at how different somewhere just an hour or two outside Paris is from the capital city.

Especially if you choose your destination properly!

In a perfect world, you would spend at least a weekend outside of Paris, but I know that isn’t possible.

But please, please, please make sure you get outside Paris for at least one day on your solo trip to France!

I promise you’ll thank me later!

2. Learn a Little Bit of French

I’m sure you’ve heard the stereotypes that French people are rude and don’t like tourists.

That is 100% a myth. I’ve had nothing but incredibly positive experiences when in France.

That being said, it is very important to know a few key French words when visiting France.

I’ve found that French people are extremely appreciative of you trying to speak a little bit of their language.

Even if you’re not very good at it!

Simple things like knowing how to say hello, good-bye, and thank you in French goes a long way in France.

The more you know the better!

And be polite!

Kindness goes a long way anywhere you go, and that is no different in France.

You have to remember as a traveller that nobody is obligated to speak in their second or third language to accommodate your language skills.

It is a kindness that people do, and we shouldn’t take it for granted.

I’m certainly very grateful when people speak English for me when I’m in their country! I know how privileged I am to be afforded that convenience.

Communication is give and take.

Try your best to throw a little French into the conversation, and I know you’ll have a good experience while in France!

Conquer your fear of solo travel

3. France is Safe for Solo Travellers

One of the first things people who are travelling to France alone Google is whether or not the country is safe for solo travellers.

Especially for solo female travellers.

I’m here to put your nerves at ease and tell you that France is very safe for solo travellers!

I’ve never had an issue travelling alone in France.

You still need to be aware of local scams (pick pocketing can be a major issue in Paris), but you’re no more at risk as a solo traveller than if you were in a group.

If you’re aware of your surroundings and have your wits about you, you should have no issue travelling alone in France!

And if you’re ever in a situation where you start to feel a bit uncomfortable, listen to your gut and turn around.

Or scurry home as quickly as possible if you’re on your way back to your hotel.

You probably won’t feel uncomfortable as a solo traveller in France, and it is a very safe country for tourists.

Just be aware of those pick pocketers and keep your valuables safely stored in your bag and out of reach!

4. But It Can Feel a Bit Sketchy at Night

Okay, okay. I know this kind of goes against my last point, but hear me out.

The only time I’ve felt even the slightest bit uncomfortable alone in France is at night.

I’m not normally one to stay out past dark, but I was coming home from a hockey game and had no choice.

I’m specifically thinking about Paris. The streets are kind of eery to me at night, and I can’t quite place my finger on why.

There isn’t any reason to be afraid or feel sketched out, but I know quite a few people who hate walking outside in the evening in Paris.

Even my dad hates it!

I’m not saying you shouldn’t be out after dark. I just want you to be prepared to maybe have your heart beat a little faster and feel the need to walk a little bit faster.

It isn’t everywhere in France, but I’ve found that some of the larger cities have the same after dark vibe that makes my heart race.

You may have a different experience though!

I just want to give you my experience, so you can be a little bit more prepared if you are out and about at night.

But definitely take the metro to as close to where you’re going as possible!

How to use the Paris metro like a local

5. Buy Your Train Tickets in Advance

Not buying your train tickets in advance is one of the biggest mistakes anybody who visits France can make.

I’ve made the mistake too many times in the past, and my wallet hurts because of it.

Many places in Europe (France included) determine the price of a train ticket around when you purchase your ticket.

The earlier you purchase your ticket, the less expensive it is. Leave buying your ticket until the last minute, your wallet is going to hurt like mine does!

I know not everybody likes to pre-plan their trips (me included!), but you should definitely pre-plan and purchase your train tickets in France.

I’m not talking about the ticket prices going up by a few Euros closer to the day of departure.

I’m talking the price difference could be €50 to €100 more!

I’ve had to not go on a day trip from Paris because I didn’t book my train ticket in advance, and it was too expensive.

Like it was going to be over €300 round-trip for a two-hour train ride each way!

So, learn from my mistakes and book your train tickets early!

I know this isn’t exactly a tip for travelling alone in France, but I need you to know this! It’ll make your France trip go so much smoother and save you a ton of money.

Especially if you’re visiting multiple cities on your trip!

The easiest way to travel from Paris to Lille

6. Don’t Eat Near Tourist Attractions

This tip applies to most cities, but it is especially important when you’re alone in France.

That’s for three main reasons:

• The food is always really expensive
• It also doesn’t taste that good
• They are always really busy, so you’ll feel rushed, which can make eating along awkward

I highly recommend you plan your meals, so you don’t get hungry right after visiting a major tourist attraction.

Easier said that done I know!

I especially recommend this for people who are new to solo travel and still feel a bit awkward eating alone.

Plus you’re in France, so you want to try the best food they offer!

And let me tell you that that food isn’t normally found near the most popular tourist attractions.

Get off the beaten path and find where the locals eat.

That will save you money, and you’re guaranteed to have a better meal!

Tips for eating alone at restaurants

7. Pre-Purchase Tickets to Tourist Attractions

France- especially Paris- is a very popular tourist destination.

It is so busy that there isn’t an off-peak season anymore. You will always run into crowds on your France trip no matter what time of year you visit.

Luckily you can pre-buy tickets to the most popular tourist destinations.

This will save you hours waiting in the stand-by line, which is kind of a waste of time!

Standing in the stand-by line is bad in the best of circumstances, but it is even worse when you’re alone in France.

You don’t have anybody to pass the time with. You’re stuck standing in line alone, and the time seems to drag by painfully slow.

You do not want to go through that experience!

In a lot of instances, you don’t need to buy your tickets too far in advance. I’ve been able to snag a ticket to the Louvre two days before I visited.

That isn’t guaranteed to happen though!

The earlier you can book your ticket, the more likely you are to get the date and time slot you want.

At peak times (like summer and spring break), you probably won’t be able to get a ticket to the most popular tourist attractions if you leave buying a ticket to the last minute.

And the stand-by line is even longer during peak season!

Even if you decide to visit a certain attraction the night before, jump onto their website and see if you can get a ticket for the next day.

It doesn’t hurt to try, and you may just get lucky!

8. Accommodation is Fairly Expensive

You can find inexpensive food and get by without spending a ton of money on tourist attractions, but the price of accommodation in France is going to kill your budget!

Even a bed in a hostel dorm will run you upwards of €50 in the most expensive cities like Paris and Nice.

And there isn’t a way to get around the cost of accommodation.

You need to sleep somewhere!

And preferably not on the street!

It is important to realize that accommodation isn’t cheap before you start your solo trip to France.

As a solo traveller, you’re 100% responsible for every penny spent on your trip, and you want to make sure you have the budget for it before you commit to your trip.

And when you’re alone in France (or anywhere for that matter), you don’t want to cheap out and stay in an unsafe, crappy area.

The good news is that you can often find very affordable Airbnbs in France.

I often find it is cheaper to rent out an entire apartment than it is to book a hotel.

Look into hotels , hostels, and Airbnbs in your desired neighbourhood. Find the right option for you and decide if you have the budget for it.

But please don’t show up in France thinking it is as affordable as its neighbour to the left Spain. It isn’t, and you need to be prepared to level up your accommodation budget while in France.

9. Public Wifi Isn’t Widely Available

It pains me to say this, but public wifi isn’t widely available in France.

You would think for such a financially wealthy country they would have a strong wifi network, but they don’t.

In a lot of cases, even restaurants and cafés don’t offer guests complimentary wifi!

Shocking. I know.

It is super important you have a plan on how you’re going to access the internet while you’re alone in France.

In a lot of cases, you can 100% rely on your hotel wifi and go without internet access while you’re out and about exploring during the day.

However, there are many instances where you need more reliable access to the internet, and that is when you need to come up with a plan.

The two best options are renting pocket wifi or buying your own pocket wifi device (only for the most serious of travellers).

No matter what, you need a plan before you hit the ground in France.

It is super annoying when you need to access the internet for some reason and aren’t able to.

Or when you’re stuck in a super long line because you didn’t pre-buy tickets to the Louvre and now need to kill two hours in line.

No matter what your plan to access the internet is, you’re going to connect to a public wifi network on a regular basis.

Using public wifi puts your online data at risk, and there is nothing worse than having your banking information stolen while you’re on vacation and having to cancel all your bank cards while you’re in France.

No fun at all!

The only way you can protect your online data is by installing a VPN on your devices. It makes using public wifi just as safe as using your home internet where you’re the only person who knows the password!

Tourist’s guide to wifi in France

My Favourite VPN

As you can imagine, I’ve used a ton of different VPNs over my many years of travel.

To be frank, most of them suck.

They slow down your phone to the point where you get frustrated at not being able to use the internet normally, and you turn the VPN off.

Or at least you do if you’re like me and don’t have the patience for slow wifi.

The only VPN I’ve used for years (and will continue to use for years) is NordVPN .

It is the fastest VPN on the market by a mile, which is why I recommend it to you (a fellow solo traveller).

You need to need to need to keep your online data safe when you travel alone.

Having your personal information stolen is 100% worse when you’re a solo traveller. There is nobody else around for you to rely on, and you have to find a solution to a difficult problem all by yourself.

You don’t need that hassle in your life- especially when the solution is so simple!

The cost monthly cost of a two-year NordVPN subscription is less than the price of a single Starbucks latte.

There is zero excuse to leave your online data unprotected.

I always say if you can afford to travel, you can afford to protect your online information with a VPN.

There are no excuses!

Do you feel more prepared for your solo trip to France now?!

I hope this article gave you some tips and tricks to help you while you’re alone in France!

France is an amazing country, and I highly recommend everybody visit it once in their life.

It is also a very easy country for solo travellers. Even if it is your first solo trip, you’ll be able to navigate travelling alone in France without issues.

English is widely spoken, the trains are easy to navigate, and the people are always willing to help if you have any issues.

So, if you’re dying to go to France but nobody in your life will go with you, now you can confidently book a solo trip to France knowing you’ll have an amazing time.

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My Top Tips For Solo Travel In France

One of the great joys of travelling is the opportunity to stretch and challenge yourself. It also gives you a sense of freedom and a chance to try something you might not try at home. 

These moments of personal growth are multiplied when you choose to travel on your own.

I was recently asked by a DF reader to share my advice for anyone wanting to experience solo travel in France. 

It won’t come as a surprise to regular readers that France is my favourite destination when travelling alone. And it’s fair to say that I’ve picked up many helpful tips over the years. These learnings usually arose when I had refused to budge from French soil, and Scott had been keen to explore further afield…

Pack Lightly And Stylishly

Yes. Yes. I know I bang on about packing lightly all the time. But it is important. If you are on your own, you need to be able to manoeuvre your luggage without injuring yourself. Or exhausting yourself. The stylish part probably needs no further explanation. You are going to be in France after all. Look to pack neutral colours, travel friendly fabrics and don’t forget the ‘must have’ accessories – cross-body bags and scarves.  

Some adventurous souls can easily head to a new city on their own with nothing more than a passport and their credit card. That collection of souls doesn’t include mine. Personally I find I am more relaxed when I am as organised as possible. My advice is to book your travel plans – doesn’t matter if it is a train, plane or an automobile – as well as your accommodation. You might want to book any ‘must do’ activities too.

It is also worthwhile having a vague idea of where you need to be and how you are going to get there. For example, many French cities offer the convenience of a Métro rail system. No matter which city you are headed to, it’s much better to know which Métro line you need to take before you arrive at the station. This strategy saves you having to work it out via one of those big station maps (which always have a ton of people milling around them).

And if it is your first time in a particular French location, you might want to take a cab/car from the airport or train station to your accommodation. Keep copies of your tickets with you, together with maps or directions on how to get where you are going.

But Leave Some Space In Those Travel Plans

Plans are one thing but don’t fill up your days with so much that you put yourself under pressure. Travel takes you out of your comfort zone. Things that you might manage quickly and easily at home – like finding your hotel or a restaurant – can take way longer when you are travelling. This is especially true if your French isn’t strong. And then there are the seemingly inevitable transport delays. Knowing you don’t have to rush and that you have time to sort yourself out can take a lot of stress out of proceedings.

Back Up Your Documents

Regardless of whether you store your travel paraphernalia digitally or travel with ‘old school’ paper copies make sure you leave a copy with a friend or family member so you can access them if they happen to get mislaid while you are travelling.

Use Your Time Wisely

When you travel on your own, it can be easy to get distracted. Or put things off. Having a list can keep you on track and stop you from getting to the end of your trip disappointed in what you did or didn’t do.

Learn A Few Key French Phrases

In the decade we’ve been travelling to France, we’ve seen a real increase in the amount of English spoken. Particularly in Paris. However, while it is easier and easier to travel in France speaking only English, you will find it is less widely spoken the further away you are from the major centres. This doesn’t mean you need to be fluent, but if you want to get the most from your solo travel in France, it’s worthwhile learn enough French to allow you to appear polite. And memorise a few key a phrases – in case you get lost, need help or would like to get a table in a restaurant.

Take A Journal

Solo travel in France provides space that we don’t always get in our busy lives. And all sorts of ideas, emotions and feelings can bubble up. A little journalling can help you capture both your creativity and any lessons you might learn while you are on your own.

Take Something To Read

A book in any format is a handy thing to have in your bag. It can stave off boredom and can provide excellent distraction if you find eating alone a challenge.

On The Topic Of Solo Dining

Eating in a restaurant alone can be a daunting experience when you are at home, let alone when you are travelling. I was pleased to discover that solo diners are very welcome in French restaurants, as dining is considered an art form – one where the diner becomes completely engaged with their meal. When I really started to pay attention, I realised that there were numerous solo diners in restaurants everywhere.

If you are feeling a little uncomfortable about dining alone, make sure you choose a restaurant that has one of your favourite dishes on the menu and take the time to truly enjoy it. Additionally, a book or a tablet can be very helpful if you are new to solo dining. And, as an added incentive, remember that solo diners do seem to get good tables and excellent service!

Consider A Tour

If you’d like the idea of travelling solo to France but would like some level of companionship, then a guided tour could be an option for you.

I have a girlfriend who swears by female only tour groups (you can find options the world over). Alternatively, you might like to take a special interest tour, such as a food or language tour. And if you find Provence appealing make sure you check out Our French Impressions – Jean-Marie has recently released his latest tour dates.

Are you a fan of solo travel in France? Do you have any strategies that could help out your fellow travellers? I’d love for you to share in the comments section below.

And until next time – au revoir.

Photo Credit: Haute Stock

Please note: This is an unsolicited post. No compensation has been received from any of the providers named in this post.

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8 thoughts on “ My Top Tips For Solo Travel In France ”

• 8 Comments

I spent many years as a solo traveler, mainly in Paris, but also in the countryside. You have many good tips here. I would add: –If you want to check out a fancy restaurant, do it at lunch. It’s less unusual for someone to eat alone at lunch time, whether man or woman, so you’ll have a better experience. Other advantages of this: lunch menus cost less, and eating your big meal earlier is healthier, too. –Choose a hotel–with 24-hour desk staff–rather than an apartment. It is good to have someone who is checking on you, who knows whether you’ve come back from a night out. Also, they can call make restaurant reservations for you, and a restaurant has more at stake delivering good service to a client of a hotel that might send more diners its way, vs. a one-off tourist. And usually the staff are very friendly–it’s nice to see a friendly face if you’re alone for a long stretch. –Try out your hobby in France. I was a die-hard Argentine tango dancer, and I sought out venues all over Paris. All over Europe, actually. It got me to untouristy parts of the city and was an immediate entry ticket to a slice of local life. I also took one-off classes (called stages). If you don’t dance, how about a favorite sport, or a cooking class? It’s also a good way to practice French. –Wear a cross-body bag. Museums increasingly forbid backpacks. A cross-body bag is harder to snatch. In more than 25 years of traveling in France, I have never had anybody even try to grab my bag, but better safe than sorry. The only time somebody tried to snatch my bag was in Barcelona and it wasn’t a cross-body bag–it was a businessy tote that I had in the same hand as my wheeled carry-on. In broad daylight on a busy street, but it was an easy target (no, they didn’t get it–I held on despite being dragged and they eventually gave up).

Thanks so much for all the great tips Catherine. I love the idea of engaging in your hobby while in France – for each and every one of the reasons you mention. I also like the idea of staying somewhere with a 24 hour reception. I hadn’t thought about it when I was writing the piece, but more often than not, I stay in serviced apartments when I travel without Scott. I have the benefits of the staff being around, but can eat in if I choose.

Wonderful tips,especially the part about solo dining. I never feel uncomfortable dining alone in France and sometimes the service is even more attentive, so different from the States! When I travel alone to a new city, I like to take one of the guided tour buses when I first arrive to have an overview of the city and to get the ‘must see’ tourist spots checked off my list efficiently so that I can enjoy the things that really matter. And I ALWAYS look for AirBnB « experiences » on the AirBnB website for the city when I travel alone. These are group experiences, usually in English, that can be quirky and fun. I have learned to make paella in Barcelona, explored street art, learned to use the velib bike system in Paris, and painted a silk scarf in an artist’s studio. All added color and a personal touch to my solo travel.

Thanks for the AirBnB experiences tip Alisa. It sounds like they have introduced you to some very interesting opportunities. The idea of scarf painting sounds amazing. And thanks for reminding me about the tours. We also do a day tour of some type when we first visit a city. We rather naively did a bike tour around Paris when we first visited a decade ago. I don’t know what I was thinking given the traffic and our jet lag!! But we survived and had a wonderful afternoon. Tours are a great way to orient yourself in a new city, especially when you are travelling solo.

Janelle, this advice is spot on! I just returned form a 10 day excursion in France. I also overpacked and ended up only wearing 2 pairs of shoes; a black short boots and tall camel ones. A packable coat worked as a pillow when traveling on the train to Provence. I noticed solo diners all over Paris; even on Friday/Saturday nights and they did have excellent tables! This time of year, everyone was wearing a mostly black palette with some grey and camel thrown in to break it up. I also noticed, for the first time, a lot of stylish women wearing designer backpacks, They were small and very chic. Love your blog!

Thanks Jennifer – I’m really glad you are enjoying DF. I started to notice the backpacks last time I was in France too. They certainly look great and would be almost as practical as a cross-body. Like Catherine who commented below, I’ve never had any issues with bag security but I’ve always avoided backpacks because you can’t always see what’s going on behind you. I do like how they look though!!

I enjoy eating out mid-day when I travel alone. Restaurants are often less busy and prices are lower. If you eat in a neighbourhood, you will get to know the servers. I studied French, took a couple of tours and hired a language coach when I stayed in Paris. If you are staying for 2 seasons and require more baggage, hire a driver for the airport. He/she will come up to the apartment to carry your luggage. I usually carry a book, phone or journal in my bag so I have something to do if I feel uncomfortable.

Excellent tips Joanne – thank you. When I’m in France, I find myself eating out at lunchtime as well. And that’s true whether I’m travelling solo or with Scott. The atmosphere is still great – as is the food – and you are so right about the prices being cheaper.

Privacy Overview

Solo Travel In France – The Essential Guide

Hostelworld App  /  Solo Travel / Solo Travel In France

This guide to Solo Travel in France is designed to assist you in exploring the enchanting landscapes and cultural richness of France effortlessly and joyfully, making your solo journey a truly memorable experience.

• Solo travel in France provides a deeply personal and enriching experience, encompassing a variety of activities from fashion and art to gastronomy and relaxation retreats.
• France is a safe, easily navigable destination with a profound cultural legacy, perfect for solo travellers eager to discover its historic towns, breathtaking scenery, and to indulge in its world-famous gastronomy.
• Preparing for solo travel in France involves selecting the best time to visit for agreeable weather and favourable prices, choosing comfortable accommodation, and making use of the varied transportation options available to explore this magnificent country.

About France

France’s history spans from the Gauls, through pivotal eras such as the French Revolution, to its current role as a beacon of culture and democracy in Europe. This rich historical and cultural tapestry makes France an exceptional destination for any solo traveller.

Before embarking on this captivating journey, it’s useful to note:

• The currency used is the Euro.
• The average daily expense for food and accommodation is around €150.
• The ideal times to visit are April to June or September to November, to enjoy pleasant weather while avoiding the peak tourist seasons.
• France offers a secure and hospitable environment, presenting a diverse array of experiences to suit all kinds of travellers.

Click the images below to find your city itinerary guide in France. Each city has itinerary ideas covering 24 hours, 2 days and 3, for whatever length of French solo travel adventure you have.

Benefits of Solo Travelling Around France

France is renowned for its security and ease of navigation, ranking it as a top pick for solo travel. As the heartland of modern art and gastronomy, it’s an essential destination for enthusiasts in these fields. Furthermore, with careful planning and budgeting, France can be quite accessible financially for solo travellers.

Participating in solo tours in France, offered by companies like Just You and G Adventures, is an excellent method to meet fellow travellers. In addition to exploring the country’s deep-rooted history and culture, these tours provide opportunities to forge lasting friendships and have companions to capture those priceless moments of your journey.

How to get to and from France

France is home to several major international airports, including Paris Charles de Gaulle, Nice Côte d’Azur, and Lyon-Saint Exupéry. For travellers from Australia, airlines like Air France offer direct flights to France, ensuring a seamless and efficient journey. Booking your international flight to France and any specific tours or activities at least six months in advance is advisable for an optimal travel experience.

The best times to fly to France for attractive prices and delightful weather are:

The average cost of a round-trip flight to France from the United States varies from $600 to $1600, depending on the season, airline, and city of departure, making it a feasible option for many travellers.

Planning Your Solo Trip Around France

Research | Budgeting | Accommodation | Transport | Etiquette | Dining | Emergency Info

Organising your solo adventure around France might seem daunting at first! To assist you, here are some essential tips to consider.

Researching Destinations and Attractions

From the iconic Eiffel Tower in Paris to hidden gems like the lavender fields of Provence, France offers an array of fascinating tourist attractions and historical sites perfect for solo explorers. Research these attractions beforehand and create a list of your must-see destinations.

Whether you’re keen on immersing yourself in lively cultural events and festivals or exploring stunning natural landscapes, having a clear plan will enrich your journey.

Choosing Accommodation

Your accommodation choice significantly impacts your travel experience. France offers diverse options, from hostels and hotels to Airbnb and charming bed-and-breakfasts. Some hostels, like Generator Paris and St Christopher’s Inn Gare du Nord, provide amenities tailored for solo travellers, including private rooms, climate control, and female-only options.

Read more on where to stay below

Transportation Options

France boasts various transportation means, including trains, buses, and car rentals. The train system, with high-speed services like TGV and SNCF, is the most popular and convenient travel method. However, renting a car can be advantageous for visiting smaller villages or areas with limited public transport.

Cultural Etiquette and Local Customs

Understanding and respecting local customs and etiquette is vital when visiting France. This includes greeting people with a polite ‘Bonjour’, dressing appropriately in religious sites, and using formal titles in social interactions.

Knowing basic French phrases can greatly enhance your experience and foster connections with locals.

Food and Dining

French cuisine, celebrated globally, is a must-try during your visit. From Boeuf Bourguignon in Burgundy to Croissants in Paris, France offers an array of exquisite dishes. When dining alone, consider reserving a less conspicuous table to enjoy a more relaxed experience.

Budget Tips

With careful planning, France can be quite affordable for solo travellers. Here are some budget-friendly tips:

• Enjoy discounted drinks and meals at local bistros and cafes.
• Indulge in affordable yet delicious baguettes or pastries from bakeries.
• Seek reasonable accommodation in cities like Marseille, Lyon, and Bordeaux.

These strategies can help you relish France without straining your finances.

Emergency Information

Having essential emergency information at hand can provide peace of mind and enhance safety. In France, the emergency number is 112. Major cities host reputable hospitals offering a range of medical services. Learning key French phrases for emergencies is also beneficial.

Consider travel insurance options like AXA Assistance, Europ Assistance, or Allianz Global Assistance for comprehensive coverage, including health emergencies. If you’re coming in from the EU or even the UK, don’t forget to keep your International Medical card in date.

Itinerary Route Ideas For Solo Travel Around France

Crafting your itinerary is a thrilling aspect of travel planning. Whether you’re staying for 2 weeks, 1 month, or 2 months, a well-thought-out itinerary will ensure you fully experience the charms of France. Below are suggested itineraries for these durations, showcasing both popular and lesser-known French delights.

For a two-week journey, consider beginning your French adventure in:

This itinerary offers a mix of historical landmarks, stunning landscapes, and vibrant city life. The flexibility of solo travel lets you adjust your journey to your preferences, allowing more time in places you adore and moving on from others as needed.

With a month in France, delve deeper into its rich history and culture. Start with essential destinations like Paris, Lyon, and Nice, then explore the picturesque Provence region, the breathtaking French Riviera, and the historic Normandy coast. A month gives you enough time to truly embrace the French way of life.

This itinerary affords the luxury of immersing yourself fully in each location, experiencing France’s true essence.

For a two-month itinerary, you can thoroughly explore France’s beauty. Here’s a proposed route:

• Spend a week in the enchanting Loire Valley.
• Discover the historical depth of Paris.
• Head south to the vibrant city of Toulouse for a three-night stay.
• Experience the charm of Bordeaux for two nights.
• Explore the medieval city of Carcassonne for two nights.
• Enjoy a memorable stop in the picturesque Dordogne region for a night.

Top Destinations for Solo Travellers in France

France is filled with destinations ideal for solo travellers. From the cultural richness of Paris to the historical significance of Normandy, each location offers a distinct experience.

In the following sections, we’ll delve deeper into these cities, spotlighting the attractions and experiences that make them essential stops on your solo journey.

As the capital of France, Paris is a city teeming with culture and history. Beyond the iconic Eiffel Tower, solo travellers can explore the artistic Montmartre district and embrace the city’s rich cultural tapestry.

Excellent accommodation choices for solo travellers in Paris include Generator Paris and Le Village Hostel, known for their lively atmosphere and opportunities to meet fellow travellers.

Nice, nestled on the French Riviera, is a blend of scenic beauty and cultural depth. The Promenade des Anglais offers breathtaking views of the Mediterranean, while the Old Town (Vieux Nice) is a labyrinth of charming streets and vibrant markets.

Marseille, a port city in Southern France, captivates solo travellers with its unique blend of history and modernity. The Old Port (Vieux-Port) is a hub of activity, while the Notre-Dame de la Garde offers stunning panoramic views. The city’s diverse culinary scene is a must-experience, with local specialties like Bouillabaisse.

Getting Around France As A Solo Traveller

Navigating France as a solo traveller offers diverse options, each with its unique charm and convenience. From the extensive rail network to buses and car rentals, you have various ways to explore the country’s beauty.

In the sections below, we will detail each of these transportation methods.

France’s extensive train network, including the high-speed TGV and regional TER services, makes it easy to traverse the country. Whether you’re journeying from Paris to Marseille or Lyon to Bordeaux, the train offers a swift and comfortable travel mode. Purchasing tickets is straightforward, either online or at station kiosks.

Buses are another practical and budget-friendly way to get around France. Operators like Ouibus and FlixBus connect major cities and smaller towns alike. Long-distance buses in France are equipped with amenities like Wi-Fi and onboard restrooms, ensuring a pleasant journey.

Renting a car provides the freedom to explore France at your own pace, particularly beneficial for visiting rural areas or off-the-beaten-path destinations. Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 and possess a valid driver’s license and an International Driving Permit. Options abound with companies like Europcar, Sixt, and Avis.

Accommodation Options for Solo Travellers in France

Selecting the right accommodation is crucial for a fulfilling travel experience. France offers a wide array of choices:

There are options to suit every preference and budget.

Many hostels in France cater to solo travellers, with amenities like private rooms and female-only options. Hostel prices typically range from €20–€40 per night, while hotel rooms can vary from €60–€150, depending on the location and amenities.

• Gîtes (cottage rentals)
• Chambres d’hôtes – Bed and Breakfasts

How to make friends while solo travelling in France

One of the joys of solo travel is meeting new people. In France, digital platforms such as Meetup.com and Facebook Groups are great for connecting with locals and fellow travellers. Participating in group activities, like wine tours in Bordeaux or cooking classes in Lyon, can be excellent ways to socialise.

France solo travel safety

France is generally a safe destination for solo travellers. Staying vigilant can help you avoid common scams and petty theft. It’s wise to be cautious with your belongings, particularly in crowded spots like Parisian tourist attractions or during large events.

Standard safety precautions include not sharing too much personal information with strangers and having comprehensive travel insurance, especially for health emergencies. If you want more up to date advice on safety while travelling France, check the Foreign and Commonwealth Travel Advice link listed at the bottom.

Apps and Technology for Solo Travellers

Thanks to today’s technology, it’s easier than ever before for solo travellers to stay safe while travelling around France – or anywhere

Time to leave

France offers a myriad of experiences for solo travellers. From strolling along the Seine in Paris to hiking in the French Alps, or enjoying the culinary delights in Lyon, France presents an enriching and diverse solo travel adventure. Pack your bags and set off to explore France – it promises to be a journey you’ll remember forever.

Referenced: The French Tourism Board

Foreign & Commonwealth Office – France Travel Safety

Home Explore France Official Tourism Board Website

• Explore the map

Five top tips when travelling around France on your own

Inspiration

Reading time: 0 min Published on 21 March 2024

What a fantastic feeling you get when travelling alone! Setting off on an adventure with your backpack, and just going with the flow, embracing the moment. France is one of the best destinations in the world for travelling alone, as there are so many incredible places to explore.

Be well prepared for your trip

Paris and its typical Haussmann style architecture, the breathtaking scenery of the mountains, the sandy beaches along the Atlantic coast, the Mediterranean coves with turquoise-blue waters and authentic French villages. France is literally overflowing with wonderful places to explore! To make sure you’re well prepared for your trip alone, the first thing to do is to make a list of the unmissable places depending on what you fancy seeing and doing. As for the practical side of things, remember to make photocopies of your identity documents just in case you lose them, and above-all, make the most of this unforgettable trip that appeals to travellers from all over the globe !

Choose shared, welcoming accommodation

Choosing to travel alone means you are likely to be keen on meeting new people! One of the best ways to meet other people is to choose shared accommodation that is popular with other travellers. If you are backpacking, opt for a youth hostel where you can choose between a shared dormitory or a private room, and above-all, talk to other travellers in the communal areas, listen to stories about their travels and get some great recommendations. To find a youth hostel in a specific town, check out the website for the Ligue Française des Auberges de jeunesse or Hi ! France . Another great option is to book a room at a local’s house, or try out the couchsurfing service for free homestays on a person’s sofa or in their spare bedroom.

Take part in tours and activities as a group!

Besides the accommodation, France is a country with so many activities on offer, both cultural and sporty. To find out about guided tours and unveil the historic secrets of the town you are visiting, go to the website Visit France where you’ll find all the available tours with a qualified guide for the whole of France. For sporty travellers, you’ll find group surfing lessons on the beach, skiing lessons in winter or canyoning outings that are all ideal ways to share experiences with like-minded people.

Chat to the locals to find out more about the area

Today, it’s a piece of cake to find out about where to go and the places that are absolutely not to be missed when you’re travelling alone. But there’s nothing better than listening to the locals talk about their homeland. So to really explore all the nooks and crannies of a place you are visiting, ask for advice from the Tourist Offices and the Greeters (local people who offer to take visitors on free guided tours). You might just stumble across a little-known craftsperson who will explain their profession to you, take part in a tasting of a rare local product, or enjoy a moment out on the terrace of a charming, hidden little café. Whatever the experience, you’ll appreciate the opportunities you’ll get to chat to the people you meet.

Learn to enjoy your own company

There’s nothing more French than just sipping a cup of coffee out on the terrace in front of a bistro, reading the paper and watching the world go by. The whole world is envious of this easy-going lifestyle, and this is your chance to embrace your French experience! If you are someone who tends to get bored easily, stop off at a book shop. There are plenty of old book shops in Paris , especially in the Latin Quarter, and we recommend visiting them just to soak in the atmosphere in these timeless places. And how about taking your quest to self-discovery even further, with some meditation? You'll find details of meditation sessions and workshops all over France on the website meditationfrance.com . It’s over to you!

Further reading : 6 cocons pour prendre soin de soi et de la nature cet automne 8 réflexes pour voyager durable en France

By Gaëlle Coudert

In 2016, spurred by a series of environmentally conscious awakenings, Gaëlle immersed herself in journalism to further explore this question.

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Air France, the best and most comfortable way to get to France

French Wine Tasting with Duclot La Cave

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A Fairy Tale 1, 2, 3 Christmas!

8 Luxurious Boutiques in Paris

A historical and cultural melting pot in French Polynesia

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Get exclusive travel insights. Join now .

My Paris Solo Trip: 25 Incredible Things to Do Alone

Bonjour, mes amis! I know what you’re thinking, who goes to one of the most romantic cities in the world alone? That would be me!

If you are thinking about travelling to Paris alone – my advice – go for it! And, I’m to help you, I will share all my tips for your Paris solo trip with you!

I went solo to Paris in November 2021, and let me tell you, it was an experience like no other. Since then, there have been two more times I have gone on a solo trip to Paris (add that to my six other trips and viola I’ve been to Paris nine times). From wandering the charming streets of Montmartre to indulging in pastries at local patisseries, my time alone in this magical city has been my favourite travel experience EVER!

Wondering what to do in Paris alone? There are the obvious top attractions (hello, the Eiffel Tower) to world-class museums like the Louvre. But, what I love the most are the gardens, neighbourhoods, and streets, I will share all of my favourites. Also, I can’t leave out my best solo travel Paris tips now, can I?

Table of Contents

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Is a Paris Solo Trip Worth it?

Yes, travelling to Paris alone is worth it!

Picture this: strolling down the charming streets, indulging in heavenly pastries at a quaint café, and gazing up at the majestic Eiffel Tower with no one else’s agenda to consider but your own.

One of the benefits of travelling solo to Paris is the freedom it affords you . You get to explore without worrying about anybody else’s schedule or preferences. This means that you have more time to discover hidden gems like charming cafes in quaint neighbourhoods or secret parks with stunning views of the city.

Don’t worry, it’s impossible to feel lonely in Paris , as the city becomes your companion. There’s no other city in the world where I feel more comfortable and more at home than in Paris.

Paris also has a great public transportation system that makes getting around easy and affordable and I know how important that is when you are travelling alone. You can safely take the metro to any part of the city that you want to explore. If you prefer getting some exercise while sightseeing, consider renting a bike from one of the Velib stations or walking through the streets.

Another advantage of going solo travelling in Paris is that it opens up opportunities for meeting new people from different parts of the world . Whether it’s engaging with locals or connecting with other solo travellers, there are plenty of chances for socializing during your trip. The best way is to take a group tour. I’ve selected three that would be perfect for that Paris solo female traveller.

Travelling to Paris Alone: My Top 3 Picks for Group Tours

Montmartre Cheese, Wine & Pastry Walking Tour

✅ Reviews say it’s the best tour they’ve taken in Paris!

Latin Quarter Neighbourhood Walking Tour

✅ Reviewers say it’s enjoyable and educational with many interesting stories

Haunted Père Lachaise Cemetery Guided Tour

✅ Reviewers say it’s a good mix of factual history and legendary stories you won’t read

Drawbacks of Being Alone in Paris

Of course, travelling solo to Paris may come with some challenges as well. Feeling homesick or unsafe, or navigating the language barrier on your own. And, then the ever most popular – the dreaded eating alone.

Don’t let these concerns hold you back! With a little preparation and an open mind, anyone can have an amazing time exploring Paris on their own. Keep reading until the end and I’ll share most tips.

25 Things to Do Alone in Paris

1. stroll the seine river.

At the top of your list of things to do in Paris alone needs to be taking a stroll along the Seine River and enjoying the beautiful views of Paris.

🫶I always love walking from Pont de Bir Hakeim bridge on the right bank in the 16th arrondissement to Pont de Sully in the 4th arrondissement. And, on the left bank, I like to start my walk at the Ile Saint Louis bridge Pont de la Tournelle to Pont d’Iéna at the Eiffel Tower. Along the way stop at the bouquinistes, the green stands selling used and rare books.

2. Visit the Iconic Eiffel Tower

Take in the breathtaking panoramic views of the city from its top observation deck .

🫶I love visiting the Eiffel Tower by walking to the streets of Rue de l’Université, Rue de Monttessuy, and Avenue Rapp where you can get glimpses of the Eiffel Tower making it one of the best Instagrammable photo ops!

3. Admire the Notre-Dame Cathedral

After several years of renovations, the Notre Dame Cathedral is expected to reopen in December 2024. Until such time, don’t let it stop you from admiring its architecture and one of France’s most famous landmarks.

4. Visit The Louvre

Leisurely browse through the city’s most iconic museum and marvel at its impressive collection of art (beyond the Mona Lisa).

🫶Not a museum-goer, not a problem, admire the exterior, as the architecture is divine.

5. People Watch at a Cafe

One of my favourite things to do solo in Paris is to enjoy a buttery French croissant with your coffee at a local cafe while people-watching on a quaint, yet busy Parisian street corner.

🫶Some of my favourites include Carette in Places des Vosges, Café de Flore in Saint Germain, and Le Vrai Paris in Montmartre.

6. Find the Secret Covered Passages

Seek out the covered passages tucked away from the bustling streets of Paris where these enchanting arcades offer some of the best boutiques in the city.

🫶Some of my favourites are Passage Choiseul, Passage du Grand Cerf, Les Passage des Panoramas, and Galerie Vivienne.

7. Explore the Saint Germain Neighbourhood

Saint-Germain in the 6th arrondissement of Paris is one of the chicest neighbourhoods with its café culture and charming streets.

🫶One of my favourite places to go that’s a bit off the beaten path is Place de Furstemberg and the nearby streets full of beautiful architecture and lovely shops.

8. Stroll Luxembourg Gardens

Relax in Jardin du Luxembourg , one of Paris’s most beautiful gardens. It’s a great place to read, people watch and simply enjoy the beauty of the fountains and statues throughout the park.

9. Peruse a Book Shop

Get lost in Shakespeare & Company – an iconic bookstore that has been around for over 60 years!

🫶Another one of my favourites and is near Shakespeare & Company is The Abbey Bookshop owned by a fellow Canadian since 1989.

10. Explore Le Marais Neighbourhood

Walk through Le Marais , known for its trendy shops and restaurants as well as historic landmarks like Place des Vosges.

🫶Any art lovers like me? My favourite places to go are Centre Pompidou and the Picasso Museum. Also, I love walking the streets of Rue Vieille du Temple, Rue de Turenne, and Rue Charlot for pop-up art galleries. And, I never miss out on going to Le Village Saint Paul which is full of art galleries and fine antiques.

11. Savour a Hot Chocolate

Head to the legendary tea room at Angelina to enjoy a decadent hot chocolate in its belle epoque-style setting from 1903.

12. Visit Musée d’Orsay

Go to Musée d’Orsay which houses an extraordinary collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist masterpieces within the stunning confines of a former railway station.

What I like best is that is a smaller, quieter museum with far fewer crowds.

13. Take a Quiet Moment

Escape the busyness, and relax in a quaint hidden garden or square where you can savour the moment, people-watch, and soak up the charming ambiance that defines the Parisian way of life.

🫶Some of my favourite hidden gardens in Paris include Square Georges Cain, Rosiers Joseph Migneret Garden, Square Gabriel-Pierne and Square Marcel Bleustein Blanchet.

14. Eat your Way Through Food Streets

Paris is renowned for its famous food streets where delicious aromas, vibrant markets, and delectable delicacies beckon you to indulge in a culinary adventure unlike any other. Treat yourself to macarons from Pierre Hermé or Ladurée- two renowned pastry shops known for their delectable treats!

🫶Foodies take note, here are my favourite ones to visit every time I’m in Paris – Rue Montorgueil Rue des Martyrs, Rue Cler and Rue de Bac.

15. Cruise Along the Seine

Take a relaxing boat ride on the Seine River and enjoy the scenic beauty of Paris from a different perspective.

16. Visit a Botanical Garden

Head to Jardin des Plantes, one of Europe’s largest botanical gardens, for a peaceful couple of hours surrounded by so many pretty plants and flowers. No matter the season there’s always something of interest in this garden.

17. Explore the Montmartre Neighbourhood

Discover hidden gems in Montmartre by wandering through its charming cobblestone streets, dining in the cozy cafes, and admiring the stunning views of Paris.

🫶Some of my favourite places in Montmartre are just strolling the pretty streets of Rue de l’Abreuvoir , Rue Norvins, and Rue Lepin.

18. Check Out the Views in Paris

The Eiffel Tower isn’t the only place to admire the views in Paris.

🫶Some of my favourite places to get the best views in Paris include Montparnasse Tower (the best time is at sunset), Galeries Lafayette Shopping Centre and the rooftop of Arc de Triomphe.

19. Sit on the Steps of Sacré-Cœur

Perched atop the picturesque Montmartre hill, the Basilica of Sacré-Cœur de Montmartre in Paris stands tall over the city. You’ll never feel alone in Paris sitting on the steps where you can take in the breathtaking panoramic views of the city.

20. Check out Palais Garnier

Take in an opera or ballet at one of Paris’ most beautiful historic venues, Palais Garnier.

I didn’t want to see a live production alone, but still visited when no performance was playing to admire the grand architecture.

21. Visit an Island in Paris

The islands of Île Saint-Louis and Île de la Cité in Paris offer a relaxing escape from the bustling city, where you can wander through quaint streets, admire stunning architecture, and soak up the unique atmosphere that blends history, art, shops and scenic viewpoints of the Seine River. Not to mention the great eateries here too!

🫶Some of my favourite places include Berthillon ice cream parlour and the city’s prettiest cafe, Au Vieux Paris d’Arcole. One of the absolute musts is to see Sainte Chapelle and its 1000 stained glass windows!

22. Go Shopping

Indulge in some retail therapy by visiting high-end boutiques along Avenue des Champs-Élysées or Rue Saint-Honoré or vintage shopping in Le Marais.

🫶Some of my favourite places to shop are Galeries Lafayette (department store) and La Grande Épicerie de Paris (gourmet grocery store).

23. Seek some Solitude at Père Lachaise Cemetery

Spend some time at Père Lachaise Cemetery where famous artists like Oscar Wilde and Jim Morrison are buried amidst impressive tombs and sculptures.

If you want to visit the Paris underground visit the Catacombs .

24. Hang out in Canal Saint-Martin

Canal Saint-Martin exudes a boho vibe, with its trendy cafés and shops, charming bridges, and tree-lined promenades, creating the perfect setting for leisurely walks, picnics by the river, and enjoying the laid-back ambiance of this beloved neighbourhood.

25. Take a Day Trip

Taking a day trip from Paris allows you to take a break from the busy city. There are many enchanting destinations like the charming village of Giverny, home to Monet’s iconic gardens, or the UNESCO-listed medieval town of Provins. Day trips from Paris are a great way to take a break from the city, and also a chance to share an enjoyable experience with a small group of people.

🫶Everyone’s favourite, me included is a visit to the Palace of Versailles, one of the most impressive royal estates in Europe. Another favourite of mine is visiting the beautiful city of Reims in the Champagne Region .

Giverny and Versailles Palace Guided Day Trip ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Combine both incredible sites on this small group tour (10 hours)

Reviewers say “enjoy seeing both sites, but the guide makes or breaks the experience. Versailles is busy and a bit takes longer.”

Where to Stay on Your Solo Trip to Paris

When travelling alone to Paris, you have the option to choose between apartment rentals and hotels, each has its benefits for female solo travellers.

Apartment rentals provide a sense of independence, comfort and the opportunity to live like a local. Opt for neighbourhoods like Le Marais or Saint-Germain-des-Prés, where you’ll find charming apartments with fully equipped kitchens (for those light dinners in!) and cozy living spaces.

I’ve lucked out having stayed in a cute pied a terre in Saint Germain and also a chic 1-bedroom loft in Le Marais .

On the other hand, hotels offer convenience with a range of amenities and to some, a level of safety for female solo travellers.

Instead of making a couple of recommendations, it might be easier to see the full list of 41 Boutique Hotels in Paris or 31 Boutique Holiday Rentals. I just know you’re bound to find something that suits your budget, style and preferences.

Solo Trip Paris Tip : Do a Google Street View before you book to make sure the area is safe to travel alone.

10 Tips for Travelling to Paris Alone

Before you go…

• Research and plan your itinerary : familiarize yourself with the city’s top attractions, neighbourhoods, and transportation options. Create a flexible itinerary to make the most of your time in Paris.
• Choose centrally located accommodations: opt for accommodations in central neighbourhoods like Le Marais, Saint-Germain-des-Prés, or the Latin Quarter. This will make it easier to access major attractions.
• Learn basic French phrases : although many Parisians speak English, learning a few basic French phrases can enhance your interactions and show respect for the local culture.
• Pack wisely : you’re going to want to blend in and avoid looking like a tourist. Parisians love neutrals and pack comfortable walking shoes, as exploring Paris often involves a lot of walking.
• Use cash and notify your bank : while credit cards are widely accepted, it’s a good idea to carry some cash for smaller establishments (like most bakeries only accept cash) or in case of emergencies. Notify your bank about your travel plans to avoid any issues with your cards.

While you’re there…

• Stay connected : purchase a local SIM card for Wi-Fi service to stay connected while navigating the city and accessing online resources.
• Be cautious of pickpockets : like any popular tourist destination, Paris has its share of pickpockets. Keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas, public transportation, and tourist hotspots. Avoid walking alone late at night in unfamiliar areas and trust your instincts if something feels off.
• Be aware of scams : it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and avoid common scams such as fake petitions, gold ring tricks, or unsolicited help, ensuring a safe and hassle-free experience as you navigate the city’s mesmerizing streets and attractions.
• Embrace solo dining : Paris is known for its incredible culinary scene, so don’t hesitate to enjoy a meal alone. Pick a busier cafe, bistro, and brasseries, or enjoy a larger meal at mid-day (and a light meal at night), or get takeaway and have a picnic in a park. Dining solo in Paris is not uncommon, there are many solo diners (especially at lunch and happy hour).
• Enjoy the moment : Solo travel in Paris offers the opportunity for self-discovery and independence. Embrace the experience and immerse yourself in the city’s charm. Take lots of breaks and relax as Paris can be bustling and overwhelming at times. Recharge in one of the city’s parks or sit at a sidewalk café, sipping coffee and people-watch.

FAQ About Visiting Paris Alone

Is paris safe for solo female travellers.

Yes, Paris is considered a safe city for solo female travellers. Like any other major city, it’s important to stay vigilant and take necessary precautions. Avoid poorly lit areas at night, be cautious of pickpockets, and keep your belongings secure.

What should I be cautious about travelling to Paris solo?

Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded tourist areas or on public transportation and be aware of common scams targeting tourists, such as street vendors selling questionable products or individuals attempting to distract you while stealing your belongings.

What are things to do in Paris alone at night?

Things to do in Paris alone at night have to include admiring the sparkling Eiffel Tower, indulging in a delicious dinner in a cozy café or wine bar, and either strolling or cruising the Seine River.

What’s the best time to visit Paris as a solo traveller?

The best time to visit Paris as a solo traveller is anytime! But, recommend avoiding the peak summer months of late June to mid-September for fewer crowds.

How many days should I spend in Paris alone?

The ideal duration for a solo trip to Paris is around 4-5 days, or as a returning trip a weekend in Paris is ideal. This allows ample time to explore the city’s top attractions, experience its vibrant culture, and soak in the unique Parisian atmosphere.

How can I meet other solo travellers while in Paris?

There are several ways to meet fellow solo travellers in Paris. Consider joining organized tours, attending social events, or exploring co-working spaces. Paris also has a vibrant nightlife, with plenty of bars and clubs to explore.

As a Holidaymaker

Travelling solo to Paris can be an incredibly rewarding and fulfilling experience. With so much to see and do in this beautiful city, you’ll never run out of things to explore. While it’s natural to feel a little nervous about going alone, I hope these ideas of things to do in Paris solo have inspired your plans .

So if you’re thinking about taking the plunge and embarking on travelling Paris solo, don’t hesitate – go for it! You won’t regret it.

• Read this article to get more ideas One Week Itinerary in Paris
• Check out my Travel Guide to France
• Become a subscriber , and I will send you weekly travel news, tips, and inspiration

Founder, Creator of Dream Plan Experience

She specializes exclusively in European travel, focusing on five countries: France, Germany, Italy, Portugal, and Spain. For over 35 years, she has explored Europe extensively, embracing the slow travel philosophy to uncover hidden gems and authentic experiences. Living in Germany twice, she revisits these countries to create in-depth travel itineraries and destination guides tailored to those who seek immersive cultural experiences.

Through her customized services, she helps travellers plan their European trips with a focus on savouring each moment. As a co-partner in a woman-led company, she offers luxury retreats that emphasize slow travel and deep cultural connections.

Solo Travel to France as a Female | Off The Beaten Track

Last updated on March 14th, 2024 at 07:44 pm

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Planning a Solo Trip to France?

You’re in the right place because before I moved here, I did a lot of solo travel to France and made every mistake you can think of.

When I used to daydream about travelling in France, my thoughts immediately went to Paris. 

The effortlessly chic women sat drinking their coffee in a Parisian cafe and then taking a walk along the Champs Elysees. Or to Nice, where the sun shines brightly on the beautiful people strolling along Promenade des Anglais.

It was the stuff dreams were made of, and I couldn’t wait to be part of it.

However, when I travelled to France, I discovered that the real France was very different from my daydreams.

In fact, dare I say, the France I discovered was even better.

How is that possible? Because I ventured away from the big cities and out into the unbelievably beautiful rural French countryside, where I was welcomed with open arms.

Today, I’m taking you on a journey of the France I discovered on one of my solo trips to France.

Popular Solo Travel Destinations in France Off the Beaten Track

Much as I love Paris, and I do, there is more to France than the City of Love . You could spend a lifetime exploring this country as there is just so much to see and do.

In this quick guide to solo travel in France, I want to give you something different that isn’t the obvious big cities everyone writes about.

Instead, I want to take you into a different world, one where there are gorgeous medieval chateaux , vines as far as the eye can see, and history oozing from every corner.

And to do that, we need to go off the beaten track and into the depths of rural France in the beautiful southwest.

Brantome in the Dordogne

We’re starting in the stunningly beautiful village of Brantome , which sits on the Dronne River in the Dordogne region of France. Often referred to as the “Venice Of The Périgord”, it’s possibly one of the most gorgeous places I’ve been to in the Dordogne region of France.

The History of Brantome

It’s dominated by the Abbey and Caves , rumoured to date back as far as 769 and founded by Charlemagne. 

The Benedictine Monks, living in the troglodyte caves, built the abbey into what it is today.

What to do in Brantome

Those caves are seriously impressive, and taking the tour, which is only €7 entrance fee, is well worth the cost.

And as a stopover on the way to Santiago de Compostela, Brantome’s place in history is well and truly cemented.

I’ve been to Brantome several times, on my own and with friends, and each time I go, I discover something new.

There is a beautiful garden area, Les Jardins Tranquilles, with wooden benches where you can look over the river to the monastery on the other side. If you’re on your own, it’s the perfect place to take some time out and read a book.

Where to eat in Brantome

There are plenty of restaurants to choose from as well, and many of them are along the river with outside terraces. My favourite is, without a doubt, Le Moulin de l’Abbeye . 

It’s definitely on the pricey side, but the service and food are out of this world. 

They serve a round boule of walnut bread that sits on top of a bed of walnuts, I don’t think I’ve ever had bread that good.

Brantome is a place you’ll want to come back to time and time again, and you’ll never tire of it.

The Historical Village of Vertueil

As you probably know, France is the land of the chateau. There are more castles and chateaux than you can throw a stick at. It’s one of the things I love about living here in the Charente, as I’m fascinated by history and people’s lives before us.

The Chateau of Verteuil

The Verteuil chateau is like something out of a fairytale book with its conical, Rapunzelesque towers.

It dominates the village, and you can see it on the horizon no matter which way you approach it.

Unfortunately, it’s now privately owned, but it wasn’t when I first moved into the area, so I was able to immerse myself in the history of the place. It dates back to the 11th century and has seen many royal visitors over the years, including Louis XIII.

Where to eat in Verteuil

One of the best views of the chateau is from the Sennechalerie bar going up the hill away from the village square. 

You can see the chateau through the windows, but when you sit outside, you feel like you could literally reach out and touch it. 

They do great food in there at a reasonable price. We’ve often gone on a Sunday afternoon and ordered a bottle of rose and a charcuterie board.

Two other great restaurants are Café Portebleue in the square and Jeux de Pots on the banks of the Charente River.

The Market in Verteuil

There is a great market in the village square selling local produce every Sunday morning. I’ve been many times with my wicker basket over my arm. It’s French living at its best. 

And when you’ve finished shopping, it’s obligatory to stop for a glass of wine in the square.

Verteuil has a huge English-speaking community, so you’re never alone if you don’t want to be.

Bordeaux the Wine Capital

Bordeaux is the wine capital of France , and it’s such a wonderfully walkable city. I don’t live far from Bordeaux, and it’s where I go to get my city fix as it has the longest shopping street in France, Rue Sainte-Catherine. 

One of the best things you can do in this city is to take one of the guided tours, as it’s a great way to meet other solo travellers. And there are lots to choose from.

Things to do in Bordeaux

As Bordeaux is known for being a foodie city , I highly recommend taking one of the many food tours as they take you to some of the best markets, patisseries and wine cavistes, all blended seamlessly with stories about the history of Bordeaux.

The city centre is a UNESCO-listed area full of beautifully designed buildings and architecture.

The biggest tourist attraction is probably the water mirror at Place de la Bourse , where you’ll see people splashing in the mist, it’s an Instagrammer’s dream. And of course, I couldn’t resist joining in.

The BEST Tours in Bordeaux

If you have a few hours to kill, then a trip to Cité du Vin is THE thing to do as a solo traveller. I was there for four hours and still didn’t do everything. It’s a museum dedicated to wine, and not just the wine of Bordeaux , but wine from around the world.

The building has been designed to represent wine pouring into a glass, and with the audio guide , you can just lose yourself in the wonderful world of wine.

Another wow factor for me is the Les Bassins des Lumières , a digital art museum housed in an old submarine base. The show lasts about 90 minutes and features different works of art projected onto the walls and reflected in the water, all set to classical music. 

It’s hard to do it justice with words, as you need to see it for yourself, but it is definitely a highlight of any trip to Bordeaux .

Both these are included in the Bordeaux City Pass , which is what I used when I was doing a sightseeing tour of Bordeaux.

Angouleme the Capital of the Charente

Angouleme is the capital of the Charente and is another city steeped in history. Originally built on top of a rocky hill to give it a vantage point to see oncoming attackers, it is now split between the upper and lower town.

One of my favourite things to do is to walk the old ramparts. It’s breathtaking as you have 360-degree views of the Charente and you can see for miles.

The History of Angouleme

And then there is the tour of the Hotel de Ville (the town hall). This is well worth doing as you learn the fascinating history of Isabella of Angouleme, who built the Hotel de Ville with her second husband. She was originally married to King John of England, with whom she had her son, King Henry III. 

France and England’s history was intertwined for nearly four hundred years through political marriages like Isabella’s and King John’s. 

The Cartoon Capital of Europe

But there is so much more to love about Angouleme, as it’s also the Cartoon Capital of Europe. Everywhere you look, as you walk around the cobbled streets, you’ll see huge wall murals featuring cartoons.

Every year, in January, the cartoon world descends on Angouleme for the annual festival celebrating comics and cartoons . They even have a cartoon museum you can visit.

Other Things to Do in Angouleme

And, in the third weekend in September, the city plays host to the Circuit des Remparts, a classic car race around the medieval ramparts. The whole town is cordoned off to allow the vintage cars to race through the city. It’s an adrenaline-filled weekend, but so much fun to watch with an amazing atmosphere.

The Tourism Board in Angouleme are brilliant too, as they have plenty of events aimed at solo travellers where you can meet others for meals and drinks.

The Roman town of La Rochefoucauld

The La Rochefoucauld family is one of the oldest, and most important, families in France. They were up there with the royal family in the French pecking order. 

The chateau of the same name is quite something to see and sits at the bottom of the village. The only way to reach it is by walking over the bridge, which was once a moat protecting the chateau.

The Rochefoucauld Family & History

It was the first chateau built by the family in the 11th century, but it wasn’t their last, as they owned land throughout France.

The family still live in the chateau today, and it’s open to the public for ten months of the year. On one of my trips, I actually met the Duchess, who spoke perfect English having been educated at a Swiss finishing school.

Touring the Chateau Chateau de La Rochefoucauld

I highly recommend visiting the chateau as it gives you a wonderful insight into the history of France. And at only €12 entrance fee, it’s a steal.

The first time I went, I was on my own, and, in all honesty, it was the perfect way to see everything as I could take my time. I got chatting with other people doing the tour and ended up having lunch with them.

The circular staircase, which is truly a work of art, was rumoured to be designed using drawings provided by Leonardo Da Vinci. There are twenty rooms you can visit, including the salon, library, kitchen, prison tower and boudoir of Marguerite de Valois.

It’s a fantastic place to visit, and they have an area where you can dress up in costumes from years gone by, which is a lot of fun.

The Best Place to Eat in La Rochefoucauld

La Rochefoucauld is a lovely place to walk around , and there are quite a few restaurants and wine bars to choose from.

One thing you get used to in France though, is that the customer isn’t always right, but the French are. 

On my first visit to La Rochefoucauld, I went with my hubby, and we had only just purchased our house. We were checking out local villages and decided to stop for lunch at a wonderful steak restaurant called, Chez Steph .

Long story short, hubby used to like his steaks well done (he doesn’t anymore), so when the waiter came to take our order, he asked for it bien cuit (well done). 

The waiter looked at him and simply said, “Non”, followed by, “ The chef doesn’t do well done. You will have it medium ”. 

I thought this was priceless and so very, very French.

A Guide to Solo Female Travel in Rural France

France isn’t unlike any other country when it comes to travelling solo. In the bigger cities, such as Paris, Marseille and Lyon, you need to be vigilant for pickpockets. 

And, of course, it goes without saying don’t walk home at night in dimly lit areas or districts you know have a high crime rate.

In general, though, in rural France, you don’t have the same issues you do in the bigger cities.

What to Expect in Rural France

I have always felt safe wandering around the little villages in the French countryside at night on my own. 

And don’t be put off by the fact all the houses seem to be boarded up and empty. They aren’t, it’s just the way the French live. 

The shutters on every window in French houses are used to keep the cold out in the winter and the heat out in the summer. It makes them look as though nobody lives there, but they do, it’s a French thing.

My Mum always says when she visits that the villages are like ghost towns as you don’t see anyone. Well, that’s because the shutters are permanently closed, and if you see them open, you know it’s probably an English-speaking person living there.

How to Survive as a Solo Traveller in Rural France

The biggest piece of advice I can give you is to learn a little bit of French before you go. This is especially important in the more rural areas as they don’t speak much English.

You don’t need to be fluent, I’m certainly not, but a few words that allow you to ask the necessary questions in French will go a long way.

French people aren’t rude, contrary to popular belief, but they do get fed up with people expecting them to speak English. After all, you are in France, so why shouldn’t they only speak French?

Register for Duolingo and install the Deepl App, as both have been a lifesaver for me when I’ve been in a sticky situation.

📌 TOP TIP FOR TRAVELING SOLO IN FRANCE

Never start a sentence with “ Do you speak English? ” as it’s guaranteed to get them offside. Instead, try “ Je suis désolée, mais mon français n’est pas très bon .” (I’m sorry, but my French isn’t very good).

That little phrase has saved my bacon many times and allowed me to get much better service or response.

How to get around in Rural France

One thing you’ll notice is the lack of buses and public transport in general in rural France. Where I live, there are no buses at all, and the nearest railway station is twenty minutes away.

It’s impossible to live here without a car so my suggestion would be to hire a car for your trip . Not only is it safer than relying on the very limited public transport available, but it allows you to explore the beautiful little villages France is famous for.

Plus, taxis aren’t a thing in the countryside either. Although there is Uber in France , that’s only in the big cities, and not all of them have it.

When I first moved here, I mentioned to a friend about getting a cab home when we were arranging a Christmas soiree, she just looked at me and laughed. 

There are literally no cabs in my area, not one.

FAQS: Travelling Alone in France

Is france safe for solo female travellers.

Yes, France is definitely safe for solo female travellers, although standard precautions are advised for personal safety and belongings. Like in any other destination, it’s important to stay aware of your surroundings, especially in tourist-heavy areas where pickpocketing can be more common.

Can I travel alone to France?

Yes, France is perfect if you’re travelling alone. The country offers a great transportation network, a variety of accommodation options, and numerous activities catering to different interests. Solo travellers can explore cultural landmarks, enjoy the cuisine, and immerse themselves in the local culture.

Is Paris safe as a solo female Traveller?

Yes, Paris is safe for solo female travellers despite being one of the busiest cities in Europe, but vigilance is advised, particularly at night and in less crowded areas. Tourist spots can attract pickpockets, so keeping an eye on personal belongings and being cautious in such areas is recommended.

Is it worth going to Paris alone?

Yes, it is absolutely worth going to Paris alone as it offers the freedom to explore at your own pace. The city caters to solo travellers with its array of museums, cafes, parks, and historical sites. Solo travel in Paris provides a unique opportunity to connect with the city’s culture and charm.

Final thoughts: Solo Travel to France as a Female

France is full of wonderful experiences and places to visit , all of which can be done as a solo traveller. 

From the medieval walled city of Carcassonne, which is like stepping into the pages of a history book , to the village of Cognac , where the brandy comes from , there is something for every taste.

If you’d like recommendations for where to go and stay, I’d love to hear from you as we offer a ‘ Done for You ’ itinerary service.

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Solo Female Travel in France

Travel rating.

Based on 12 experiences

Based on our research

Based on safety reports

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Is France good for solo travel?

Safety: Very safe

Transport: Easy

Things to do: Fascinating

Food: Excellent

Budget: Moderate

Is france worth visiting, overall rating.

based on 12 experiences

Things to do

Budget-friendly, paris , solo travel.

I visited Paris by FlixBus from Germany. At the City I walked a lot. I felt safe all the time, even in the night. You can rent e-bikes if you want to drive home at night when the subway is closed. I stayed in a hostel, I recommend to book a flat in the Center next time to be more private and have less way back. I loved the food, there are a lot of bakery’s so you can enjoy a meal at the river. Negative: Paris is really expensive.

Paris is not a safe city for women traveling alone, especially near popular tourist spots like the Eiffel Tower. There is a lot of harassment from strange men, people offering you things and practically forcing you to buy, as well as thefts, etc. Regarding itineraries, besides the classic places like the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre, I highly recommend the Palace of Versailles.

I Love Paris . As a solo Female Traveler one has to be Very much aware of your surroundings here as not to let' anyone spike your Drink and Keep your phone away . A map is Always useful in my Travels as I prefer It to Google Maps . I Love the food here and The Wine of course ! Enjoy Paris

France , Solo travel

I was in France all by myself during my interrail last summer (summer 2023). I spend around a week in Paris and a week traveling the coast. Both locations were very very safe, so don’t be afraid! Prices were a little bit high, but nothing crazy and sights and attractions make everything worth the hustle!

Switzerland

Nice , Solo travel

I felt very safe even walking at night. I was based in Cannes, but did day trips to Nice and Monaco. I would just be careful on the trains as they can get full very quickly and this is a good target for pickpockets. Other than that, I always felt very nice and there’s a strong tourist infrastructure

Marseille , Group travel

My favorite city in the world From the moment I arrived in Marseille, I felt at home. I fell in love with the city's urban style, international cuisine, political landmarks, and alternative cafes. I highly recommend it.

Paris , Family travel

Paris does have problems with pickpocketing and scams and you shouldn't really travel alone there. I cannot remember the name of the place we stayed but it was quite nice and the breakfast options were good. We did the Eiffel Tower the River seinn Cruise and the Monpansse Tower. We also saw the arc de triumph and Notradam. Be sure to book the Eiffel Tower tickets online prior to departure as the queues are very long. For the main attractions get there early to avoid long lines. We got around by Metro. We bought a card with 10 rides each on it and we like that each ride counts as one journey regardless of changing trains or not unlike in London.

I felt safe in Paris and had tons of fun attending concerts and doing 2 photoshoots. Public transport is easy to access and runs throughout the day and night. An excellent city for music and art lovers.

Colmar , Group travel

I’ve been dreaming about since I was 17. I saw the city in the travel vlog, I guess. When I was doing my Erasmus in Germany, I just texted in the group chat like “hey guys, I found a cheap ticket to Colmar -and introduced the city - and who’s up for Christmas Markets in there?”. And suddenly, 20 people wanted to come with me and we went all together. It was the un forgettable moment in my life.

Nice is a pleasant, colorful city, typical of Mediterranean towns. There are many specialties to try, such as socca and pissaladière. My favorite places in Nice that you should also try out: admire the view of the castle hill, going for a walk at the Promenade des Anglais, go to the Cours Saleya flower market and stroll around the old town. I particularly liked the MAMAC, if you like contemporary art. 🌴🌊 As far as security is concerned, I felt safe at all times, but there are some areas where this is apparently not the case. I haven't had any experience of this, but just in case, ask around.

Is France safe for women?

Safety rating.

Based on 277 experiences

Crime rates rating

Fairly quiet city during the day but many young people hang out late in the streets depending on the neighborhood. Frequent mortar fire, motorized or non-motorized two-wheelers stolen in broad daylight.

Villebon-sur-Yvette

This is a small safe town, the people living here are pretty wealth. It can happen, rarely, seeing some disturbed men in the street nest to Palaiseau. It happened once to me, in the train station that i met a guy talking bad to me about sexual things. Once in 18 years living there.

Meet locals in France

Hi I am rabia jabri morrocan,I have lived in France for many years l'am 64 old .I have one son I don't work now I just travel around thr world

Bonjour, je suis Fatma. J'aime beaucoup l'art, la nature, les voyages et les balades. Je souhaite parler couramment en anglais. J'espère faire de belles rencontres sur ce site. À bientôt, Fatma

As a local in Paris, I find that there are many places that are safe for women and that bring a sense of community. A lot of great and cosy coffee shops in Oberkampf, République and Bastille. I used to live in St-Michel, central area that has remained my go to neighborhood. I recommend the Café Latin, typical French restaurant. Further on the same street, there is a charming little passage, Couloir du Commerces, that will add on that magic trip.

Marseille is getting more and more popular for tourists, where there's a lot of things to do especially during summer. It's pretty easy to make some friends cause people are talkative and friendly. There's a lot of nice beaches accessible by bus or city bikes "Le Vélo" which I recommend. The further you go, the prettier it gets ;) The largest beaches "Les Catalans" / "Prado" are sandy but if you're able to I recommend the little "Anse" like Malmousque, La Verrerie where people hang on the big rocks ! A nice beach with sand and quite accessible is Le Bain Des Dames (translation : Ladies bath ;) ) which is one of my favorite spot ! It's not unusual to see young women / queer person being topless in those little "Anse" because the rocks give a sense of intimacy and no one really cares. So if you want to don't hesitate ;) Night life is quite busy, the neighborhoods La Plaine and Le Cours Julien (which are next to each other) have a loooot of bars, snacks, restaurant and small concert venue, you could find anything you want. For Queer friends you can go to Le Boum (located on the small streets between la Plaine and Cours Julien) which is a queer bar with some events. Also La Merveilleuse which is not "obviously" queer but it is. We also have an LGBT center located next to La Joliette and Le Panier (another neighborhoods). Don't hesitate to follow these places on Instagram and see the program! Enjoy your stay!

I would say that Mantes is safe for women, even if sometimes the looks from men can be a bit intimidating. There are nice walks to do along the Seine; barbecues are available to anyone for a nice lunch by the river.

My cheap food recommendations would be to go eat at a Lebanese sandwich restaurant or a "Mangez et cassez-vous!" Burger joint. Or go to a Banh Mi shop. All under 8 euros for a full meal. But if you really crave traditional french food, then go to Bouillon République and make sure you have a reservation on the website cause the queue is super long !

Hi Montpellier is a really cool and beautiful city. You will enjoy to "get lost" in the history city center ... full of little streets. Many cultural thing to do and many are even free. For sure you will enjoy!

Hi, i am student in paris since one year. So, i start to know well this city ! For me, Paris is a really safe city for women, you can easy travel alone in this city. To save money, you can eat in very nice and cheap place (in Belleville, or MenilMontant…) A little tips for -26 people: you have a pass for young people the week end : its 4€ for all the day ! :)

Lyon is pretty safe and economic as you can visit amazing places at any time. The public transport is great and you can walk the city in maximum 3 days! You can eat at a McDonalds when you’re almost out of money, it’s in the city center! Or even get fast food at the train station when you want to feel relaxed!

Perpignan is an ok city. It's pretty enough but it's small and a little claustrophobic. However, the location can't be beat: you can get to the mountains in an hour, to the sea in 20 minutes, to spain in an hour.

If you're looking for a place to stay, try looking into Villeurbanne, the biggest surburb of Lyon. Choose something close to the Subway line A and around "Gratte-Ciel". The neighborhood is quite nice and the subway will lead you directly into the city center in about 10min.

Douarnenez is a very safe place in France. It is a small town so everybody knows everybody so there is no risks for women and it feels really safe to be here . People are also very aware of women rights issues and safety

Stay with locals in France

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I'm Karol, I'm 21. I've always been passionate about the idea of seeing the world, learning new languages and different cultures. I was born in Brazil, but I currently live in Portugal, and this moving was the first step towards making this dream come true. I'm curious, fearless and I'm ready to experience and learn everything I can.

Hi ladies! I am back in Europe after 2 years living in NYC and my recent 4 months solo travel in Latin America. I love and live for being active and outdoor, and some of my fav activities are: hiking, climbing, running, cycling, trekking. I also enjoy roaming around botanical gardens, having quiet tea time mornings, listening to amapiano, playing board games. Learning French and Spanish, besides knowledge of Croatian and English 🥂

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Best Spots in France for Solo Female Travelers

France is a beautiful county with so much to see and do. No matter what time of year you visit France you are bound to love it.

It is the perfect place for solo female travelers because there is so much to see and do.

I spent 3 years living in the South of France, and although it wasn’t my favorite place to begin with I absolutely fell in love with France. No matter what season in France it was, I loved it.

There is so much to see and do all over the country. The people and the food are amazing with the landscape being absolutely stunning and beautiful.

You don’t have to be in a relationship to fall in love with this romantic country. There are so many awesome spots in France for solo female travelers.

French people are actually very friendly, despite their reputation. They are very welcoming and proud of their country and all the beauty it has to offer.

So if you are a solo traveler and have been putting off France, because you thought it was more a place to travel with a partner.

I have made a list of the best spots to visit in France for solo female travelers. This list will help inspire you on where to travel and what to do while you are in this beautiful country.

Top 10 Best Spots in France to Visit for Solo Female Travelers

There is something very unreal about Colmar. You feel like you stepped back in time and are living in a storybook.

This is probably due to the fact that Disney’s Beauty and the Beast was inspired by this city. So you kind of are living in a storybook.

Not only was this the home to Bell. It was also home to where the statue of liberty was designed before it was given to the USA as a present.

So this city has many claims to fame that they aren’t shy of sharing.

Colmar is very much a small village city inspired by artists.

If you are an art buff you will love it. However, they is still something for everyone here. With tons of good wine tasting nearby and other story book like inspired villages, you will love roaming the streets solo here.

It is home to one of the best Christmas markets in Europe. So if you happen to come during the holiday season it is worth checking out.

Colmar is one of the best spots in France for solo female travelers because it is so easy to meet and make new friends.

Getting here it is actually faster to fly into Basel, Switzerland than anywhere in France.

You have probably heard of Cannes before. It is a breathtaking city in the South of France.

It is another one of my favorite spots, especially for solo female travel.

An easy place to spend all day relaxing on the beach and then checking out the nightlife and restaurant scene.

Made famous by its Cannes film festival. It is not unheard of to see movie stars roaming the streets, even when the festival is not in full swing.

Besides the film festival Cannes hosts many other festivals year-round, so there is always something going on here.

If you are not one that enjoys sitting on the beach all day long and you would rather check-out some activities Cannes has you covered.

The shopping here is also next level, that is if you can afford it.

To get to Cannes, you will want to fly into the Nice airport, from there it is just a quick train or uber ride away.

Cannes is a must vist when in the south of France. It is a perfect spot if you plan on taking a road trip around the South of France .

8. Biarritz

I am a surfer girl. It is the one thing I miss most when I am in the Mediterranean. However, Biarritz is where I come to Europe when I want to surf in France.

The surf is good here, even though the water is cold. It is very much a small surfer town vibe .

Even if you are not a surfer, you will love the laid back atmosphere of this town.

It is located in the French Basque region close to the Spanish border, so there is Spanish influence.

Besides being a hot spot in Europe for surfing it is full of hipster restaurants and modern art galleries.

Anyone looking for a laid-back vacation, sipping rosé, indulging in oysters while reading a book by the sea, this is your place.

Unfortunately, Biarritz is not the easiest place to get to, it is about a 4-hour journey on the train from Paris, but once you are there you won’t want to leave.

7. Bordeaux

If you are a red wine lover like me, then you have to take a trip to Bordeaux.

It is in the heartland of french red wine. A city that revolves so much around its wine.

So much so that they actually have a museum fully dedicated to the love and appreciation of wine.

La Cité du Vin  is a museum dedicated to wine. No boring art or history about people you won’t remember later. Everything you see and will learn here is all about wine.

And of course, they serve wine there.

Even if you aren’t a wine lover, you love the relaxed atmosphere of this city and the surrounding area.

There are plenty of things to do in Bordeaux , you will never be bored.

Perfect for anyone not wanting the hustle and bustle of a city and looking for a more relaxing vacation.

6. Normandy

Normandy is located in the northwest of France, it is known for its history in World War II, D Day, and of course the famous Mont Saint Michel.

Making it a great spot for any history buffs out there. There is so much history in this area you will have plenty to see and do on your holiday.

Especially if you are a real World War II buff.

The weather is not as nice as in the south, but as long you go in the summer months you should be fine otherwise it can be pretty cold and rainy.

The best way to get here is by taking the train or a flight from Paris.

This spot is perfect for any history buffs.

Avignon is a small walled-in city, that many tourists overlook. There is no beach or fairytale-like buildings here, but there is something very special about it that I can’t explain.

The city is small enough that you will never feel lost, but also big enough to blend in if you don’t want to be noticed.

Avignon is known as the Palais des Papes or the city of the popes. When popes were facing corruption back in the 14th century, the Vatican would send them here to escape punishment.

The perfect spot to hide out and start a new life.

This is why it makes it one of the best spots in France for solo female travelers that are looking to escape their lives back home.

Such an easy place to just blend in and have a different life while you are on vacation.

4. Aix-en-Provence

The city of a thousand water fountains, as it is also known by.

Aix-en-Provence is a beautiful small college town located in the Cote de Provence.

It is a charming little city full of unique and different water fountains everywhere you turn. The perfect place if you just want to walk around, meet people, and enjoy all the beauty it has to offer.

Located in the south of France, so you can always count on the weather being beautiful and sunny.

Aix-en-Provence is also located in the heart of rosé country so there is plenty of good wine tasting in Provence .

It is the perfect spot for anyone wanting a mellow relaxed holiday filled with good wine of course.

Aix-en-Provence also hosts Roman thermal baths if you are looking to relax even further.

Of course, Paris is going to make the list of best spots in France for solo female travelers, but I didn’t want to put it at the top because it’s too obvious.

Everyone loves Paris! It is a must-see city that everyone has to enjoy once in their life. It is not only a city for the well traveled, Paris is perfect for first time travelers.

Most travelers fall in love with this city and always have to go back.

There are so many cool cafes and must-see museums in Paris. It is easy to fill your time completely with all there is to do in Paris.

Or you can choose to just enjoy the good food, cafes and get lost walking around the city.

While staying in Paris you are going to want to book a hotel with a balcony as you will want to enjoy the views the whole time.

Paris is super easy to get to by flying into the main airport and taking the train from the airport into the city.

2. Carcassonne

Another fairytale city located in France, but this time in the south. This one was actually home to the filming of Robin Hood Prince of Thieves back in back in 1991.

The castle is probably the biggest and most impressive one I saw in all of France.

The city is quite small and full of ex-pats, which makes it easy to make friends traveling if you are looking to do so.

Besides the castle, there is not too much to see here.

So if you are short on time I wouldn’t spend more than a day or two here.

However, if you are like me and prefer to stay put longer if will be easy to make friends and enjoy French culture.

Nice is nice they say. It is probably one of my favorite cities in France and the best spot in France for solo female travelers.

Located right on the water, it has a perfect beachy California vibe with a European influence.

There is so much going on in this city that makes it easy to travel solo there and never feel alone.

Full of markets, shopping,  boardwalks, beaches, and hikes, there is pretty much everything you could ask for all in one small area.

It is also conveniently located to an airport which makes it easy to get to.

Besides Nice, there are tons of cool spots and places to check out in the South of France if you are looking for day trips outside the city and plenty of  day trips from Nice so you can plan some excursions while you are there.

That’s it, I tried to keep this list short to only 10 places.

France is such an amazing country and there is so much to see and do there from seeing French Landmarks to Skiing in the Alpes and even swimming in the Mederterrian Sea.

It is the perfect location for anyone wanting to take a solo trip and explore and learn about a new culture.

I highly recommend going to France and even exploring someplace on this list if you have the time.

I hope you enjoyed this post on the Best spots in France for solo female travelers.

Be sure to pin it for later

Do you have a favorite spot that wasn’t mentioned on this list? Say so in the comments below

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• Ascend the Eiffel Tower and cruise the Seine
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“The tour was excellent. I was kept informed at every step, the hotel was nice and everything scheduled went off without a hitch.” Shirley Stevens, traveled in September 2022

• In-depth Cultural
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• Explore the Louvre with an audio guide
• Enjoy a panoramic bus tour of Paris
• Cruise the Seine with views of landmarks

“The cruise boat accommodation is very comfortable. You will cruise without feeling that you are in sailing.” Maria Chin, traveled in October 2019

• River Cruise
• Discover Lyon's landmarks and local flavors
• Experience the wild beauty of the Camargue Park
• Visit the majestic Palace of the Popes in Avignon

“The itinerary was well-planned. The places we visited were amazing and the hotels where we stayed were very good.” GlendaMoreno Aponte, traveled in April 2022

• Experience wine tasting at Bordeaux's Cité du Vin
• Explore the stunning Château de Villandry gardens
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“Met some amazing people and enjoyed some beautiful views. The bikes were nice and sturdy.” Jasmine (Jazz) Clement, traveled in July 2022

• Wine tasting
• Wander through the tree-lined streets of Cavaillon
• Cycle beneath the alpine foothills of the Rhône Valley
• Discover the beautiful 8th-century village of Gordes

“The accommodation was incredible you walked outside and were in the centre of town. In Brittany I had a view of the sea.” Muriel, traveled in June 2017

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“The driver was very experienced with narrow streets, and we had a wonderful experience.” judive josma trotman, traveled in August 2023

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Solo Travel In France: Have A Fun & Safe Solo Trip To France

Published: September 11, 2023

Modified: December 27, 2023

by Sadie Delorenzo

• Plan Your Trip
• Travel Guide
• Travel Tips

Introduction

France is a dream destination for travelers worldwide, known for its rich history, stunning architecture, picturesque landscapes, and delectable cuisine. While many people choose to explore this beautiful country with family or friends, embarking on a solo trip to France can be an incredibly rewarding experience.

Solo travel allows you to fully immerse yourself in the local culture, make spontaneous decisions, and discover hidden gems at your own pace. It offers a sense of freedom and independence that can be enlightening and empowering. Whether you’re an experienced solo traveler or venturing out on your own for the first time, France has a lot to offer.

In this article, we’ll explore the benefits of solo travel in France, provide tips on choosing the right destination, offer advice on planning your itinerary, discuss accommodation and transportation options, and share safety tips for solo travelers. We’ll also highlight some must-visit places and dining experiences that will make your solo trip to France truly unforgettable.

So, get ready to embrace the spirit of adventure and set off on a solo journey through the enchanting streets of France. Whether you want to explore the charming villages of Provence, indulge in the vibrant culture of Paris, or relax by the exquisite beaches of the French Riviera, France has something for every solo traveler.

Benefits of Solo Travel in France

Embarking on a solo trip to France offers a multitude of benefits that can make your travel experience even more enriching and fulfilling. Here are some of the key advantages of traveling solo in France:

• Freedom and Flexibility: When you travel solo, you have complete control over your itinerary. You can explore at your own pace, change plans spontaneously, and embrace serendipitous moments that may arise during your journey.
• Self-Discovery and Personal Growth: Solo travel provides an opportunity for introspection and self-discovery. It allows you to step out of your comfort zone, overcome challenges independently, and boost your confidence. It’s a chance to learn more about yourself and your capabilities.
• Cultural Immersion: Traveling alone enables you to immerse yourself in the local culture and connect with the people of France on a deeper level. You’ll have more opportunities to interact with locals, partake in cultural activities, and gain a genuine understanding of the country’s traditions and way of life.
• Greater Flexibility with Budget: Traveling on your own gives you the freedom to choose accommodation, transportation, and dining options that align with your budget. You can opt for budget-friendly hostels, explore local markets for affordable food, and prioritize experiences that are meaningful to you.
• Meeting Like-Minded Travelers: Solo travel often paves the way for making new friends and connecting with fellow travelers. You’ll have the opportunity to meet like-minded individuals from around the world, share experiences, and perhaps even form lasting friendships.
• Indulge in Personal Interests: Traveling solo allows you to indulge in your personal interests without compromising on anyone else’s preferences. Whether you’re interested in art, history, food, or outdoor adventures, you can tailor your itinerary to explore the aspects of France that captivate you the most.

By opting for solo travel in France, you open yourself up to a world of possibilities and create memories that will last a lifetime. You have the freedom to fully embrace the unique experiences that this captivating country has to offer, guiding your journey based on your own desires and interests.

Choosing the Right Destination in France

France offers a diverse range of destinations, each with its own unique charm and attractions. When planning a solo trip to France, it’s important to consider your interests, preferences, and the type of experience you’re seeking. Here are some factors to consider when choosing the right destination:

• City vs. Countryside: France is home to vibrant cities like Paris, Lyon, and Marseille, as well as breathtaking countryside regions like Provence, the French Alps, and the Loire Valley. Decide whether you want to immerse yourself in the cosmopolitan atmosphere of a major city or enjoy the tranquility of the countryside.
• Interests and Activities: Consider your interests and the activities you’d like to pursue. If you’re a history enthusiast, cities like Paris and Avignon are filled with historical landmarks. If you’re a wine lover, regions like Bordeaux and Burgundy are perfect for wine tasting and vineyard tours. Outdoor enthusiasts might enjoy the natural landscapes of the French Riviera or the hiking trails in the Pyrenees.
• Accessibility: Take into account the accessibility of your chosen destination. Major cities like Paris have excellent transportation networks, making it easy to navigate and explore other regions of France. If you plan to rely on public transportation, consider destinations that have good connectivity and transport options.
• Season and Weather: Consider the time of year you plan to visit and the weather conditions in your chosen destination. For mild weather and fewer crowds, consider traveling during the shoulder seasons of spring and autumn. If you’re looking for sun and beaches, the summer months are ideal, but be prepared for larger crowds.
• Budget: Keep your budget in mind when choosing a destination. Major cities like Paris can be more expensive, while smaller towns and rural areas may offer more affordable options. Research accommodation, dining, and activity costs to ensure they align with your budget.

Remember, there’s no right or wrong destination in France for solo travel. It all depends on your preferences and what you hope to experience during your trip. Whether you choose to explore the romantic streets of Paris, wander through the picturesque villages of Provence, or soak in the coastal beauty of the French Riviera, France is sure to captivate you with its diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage.

Planning Your Itinerary

Planning your itinerary is an essential part of solo travel in France as it helps you make the most of your time and ensure a well-rounded experience. Here are some tips to consider when planning your itinerary:

• Research and Prioritize: Start by researching the attractions, landmarks, and activities that interest you the most. Make a list of must-visit places and prioritize them based on your personal preferences.
• Allow for Flexibility: While it’s important to have a rough outline of your daily activities, leave room for flexibility and spontaneous decisions. Embrace unexpected opportunities and be open to deviating from your initial plan.
• Consider Travel Times: Take into account the travel times between different destinations. Ensure you have realistic timelines to explore each place comfortably without feeling rushed.
• Balance Your Itinerary: Strike a balance between visiting popular tourist spots and off-the-beaten-path destinations. This will allow you to experience the highlights of France while also discovering hidden gems that are less crowded.
• Take Breaks: Don’t forget to include downtime in your itinerary. Solo travel can be exhilarating but also exhausting, so allocate some time to relax, reflect, and soak in the atmosphere of your surroundings.
• Connect with Locals: Seek opportunities to engage with locals and immerse yourself in the local culture. Consider joining walking tours, attending local events or festivals, or even taking a cooking class to learn about traditional French cuisine.
• Be Realistic: It’s tempting to try and fit in as much as possible, but be realistic about what you can comfortably accomplish in a day. Don’t underestimate travel times or the time it takes to fully appreciate each experience.

Remember, your itinerary should cater to your interests and travel style. Don’t be afraid to make changes along the way and follow your instincts. Solo travel allows you the freedom to make spontaneous choices and create a journey that is uniquely your own.

Accommodation Options for Solo Travelers

When it comes to finding suitable accommodation as a solo traveler in France, you have plenty of options to choose from. Here are some popular choices that cater specifically to solo travelers:

• Hostels: Hostels are a budget-friendly option that allows you to meet fellow travelers and have a social experience. Many hostels offer dormitory-style rooms or private rooms for solo travelers. They often have common areas where you can socialize and exchange travel tips with other guests.
• Guesthouses and Bed & Breakfasts: Guesthouses and B&Bs provide a homely and personalized experience. They are usually run by local hosts who can offer insider tips and recommendations. You’ll have the opportunity to interact with other guests during breakfast or common areas, making it a great option for solo travelers seeking a cozy and sociable atmosphere.
• Rental Apartments: Renting an apartment or studio is ideal for solo travelers looking for more privacy and independence. Websites like Airbnb and Vrbo offer a wide range of options, from cozy city apartments to charming countryside cottages. Having your own space allows you to relax and feel like a local during your stay.
• Hotels: Hotels are a classic accommodation choice with varying budgets and amenities. For solo travelers, consider boutique hotels that offer a more intimate atmosphere or choose hotels with communal spaces where you can interact with other guests. Safety and convenience are common benefits of staying in hotels, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the area.
• Work Exchanges and Volunteering: If you’re interested in a unique experience and want to save on accommodation costs, work exchanges and volunteering might be an option. Platforms like Workaway and HelpX connect travelers with hosts who offer accommodation in exchange for help with various tasks. This can be a great way to immerse yourself in local culture, learn new skills, and meet like-minded people.

Whichever accommodation option you choose, be sure to read reviews, check the location in relation to your planned activities, and consider your budget and personal preferences. It’s also a good idea to book in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons or if you have specific requirements.

Remember, accommodation is not just a place to sleep but also an opportunity to connect with other travelers and engage with the local community. Choose an option that aligns with your solo travel goals and enhances your overall experience in France.

Transportation Tips for Solo Travelers in France

Getting around in France as a solo traveler can be both convenient and exciting, thanks to the country’s well-developed transportation system. Here are some transportation tips to help make your solo travel experience in France smooth and enjoyable:

• Trains: France has an extensive train network that connects major cities and regions. The high-speed TGV trains are efficient and comfortable, offering a convenient way to travel between cities. Make sure to book your train tickets in advance to secure the best prices and seat options.
• Public Buses: Public buses are a cost-effective mode of transportation, especially for short distances or traveling to smaller towns and rural areas. Research bus schedules and routes in advance and consider purchasing a regional or unlimited travel pass if you plan to use buses frequently.
• Metro and Trams: Major cities like Paris, Lyon, and Marseille have efficient metro and tram systems, making it easy to navigate within the city. Purchase a rechargeable travel card like the Navigo card in Paris or a day pass to save on individual ride costs.
• Rental Cars: If you prefer the flexibility of having your own vehicle, renting a car is an option. However, it’s important to note that navigating busy city centers and finding parking can be challenging. Consider renting a car for exploring more rural areas or for road trips that allow you to venture off the beaten path.
• Biking: Many cities in France have bike-sharing programs or dedicated bike lanes, making cycling a popular and eco-friendly option. Renting a bike is a great way to explore cities, especially those with bike-friendly infrastructures like Bordeaux, Nantes, and Strasbourg.
• Walking: France is known for its charming streets and pedestrian-friendly areas. Exploring on foot allows you to immerse yourself in the local atmosphere and discover hidden gems. Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared to walk, especially in cities and towns with compact city centers.
• Transit Apps and Maps: Download transit apps or use offline maps to help navigate public transportation and find the best routes. Popular apps like Google Maps or Citymapper can provide real-time directions and help plan your journeys efficiently.
• Safety: While public transportation in France is generally safe, it’s always important to remain vigilant of your surroundings. Keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas, and be cautious when using public transportation at night.

Remember to check for any strikes or disruptions in transportation services, especially during peak travel seasons or national holidays. It’s also a good idea to familiarize yourself with common transportation phrases and etiquette to ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey.

By utilizing the various transportation options available, you can explore the diverse landscapes and vibrant cities of France with ease, allowing you to make the most of your solo travel adventure.

Safety Tips for Solo Travelers in France

France is a relatively safe country for travelers, but it’s always important to prioritize your safety, especially when traveling alone. Here are some essential safety tips to keep in mind during your solo trip to France:

• Research and Stay Informed: Before your trip, research the destination and educate yourself about the local customs, laws, and emergency contact numbers. Stay updated on the latest travel advisories or any specific safety concerns in the areas you plan to visit.
• Keep Important Documents Safe: Make copies of your passport, travel insurance, and other important documents. Store the copies in a separate location from the originals, and consider using a secure digital platform to keep electronic copies accessible in case of loss or theft.
• Stay Connected: Inform a trusted person back home about your travel plans and regularly check-in with them. Ensure your mobile phone is charged and have a local SIM card or reliable internet access for emergency communication.
• Blend In: Try to blend in with the locals to avoid drawing unnecessary attention. Dress appropriately and be mindful of cultural norms and customs. Leave expensive jewelry and flashy items at home to minimize the risk of theft.
• Be Cautious and Aware: Keep an eye on your belongings at all times, especially in crowded areas, public transportation, and tourist attractions. Be cautious of your surroundings and trust your instincts. Avoid walking alone in poorly lit or isolated areas, especially at night.
• Use Reliable Transportation: Opt for licensed taxis or reputable ride-hailing services when necessary. If using public transportation, be aware of pickpocketing and keep your belongings secure. Avoid sharing personal details with strangers or accepting unsolicited offers for assistance.
• Secure Accommodation: Choose accommodation with appropriate security measures, such as lockers for valuables and secure access to the building. Use the peephole before opening your door and consider using a doorstop or portable alarm for extra security.
• Travel Insurance: Ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical expenses, trip cancellations, and personal belongings. Familiarize yourself with the policy terms and emergency procedures, and carry a copy of your insurance details with you.
• Emergency Preparedness: Familiarize yourself with the emergency services in the area you are visiting. Keep a list of important phone numbers like local police, ambulance services, and your country’s embassy or consulate.
• Trust Your Intuition: Trust your instincts and be mindful of your personal comfort. If you ever feel uncomfortable or unsafe in a situation, remove yourself from it and seek help or guidance from trusted sources.

Remember that these safety tips are not meant to discourage you from exploring and enjoying your solo trip to France. Instead, they provide guidelines to ensure you have a secure and worry-free experience, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the beauty and rich culture of this enchanting country.

Must-Visit Places for Solo Travelers in France

France is a treasure trove of iconic landmarks, picturesque landscapes, and culturally rich cities, offering countless opportunities for solo travelers to explore and indulge in unique experiences. Here are some must-visit places in France that are perfect for solo adventurers:

• Paris: No solo trip to France is complete without a visit to the City of Lights. Explore world-renowned attractions like the Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, and Notre-Dame Cathedral. Take leisurely strolls along the Seine River, discover charming neighborhoods like Montmartre, and savor exquisite French cuisine in cozy bistros.
• Provence: This region in the south of France is known for its idyllic landscapes, lavender fields, and charming villages. Lose yourself in the beauty of cities like Aix-en-Provence and Avignon, visit the stunning Calanques of Marseille, and indulge in the flavors of regional cuisine and local wines.
• French Riviera: Experience the glitz and glamour of the French Riviera by visiting cities like Nice, Cannes, and Saint-Tropez. Relax on sun-kissed beaches, explore the charming old town of Nice, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the Promenade des Anglais.
• Loire Valley: Explore the fairytale-like châteaux of the Loire Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visit iconic castles like Château de Chambord and Château de Chenonceau, cycle through picturesque vineyards, and sample the region’s famous wines.
• Mont Saint-Michel: This stunning medieval abbey perched on a rocky island is a must-visit destination in France. Take in the magnificent views, explore the narrow streets, and soak in the mystical ambiance of this UNESCO World Heritage site.
• Giverny: Step into the world of Claude Monet by visiting his former residence and gardens in Giverny. Admire the enchanting water lilies and colorful blooms that inspired the Impressionist masterpieces.
• Bordeaux: Wine lovers will delight in exploring the vineyards and cellars of Bordeaux. Sample world-class wines, dine in gourmet restaurants, and wander through the beautiful city, known for its elegant architecture and vibrant cultural scene.
• Alsace: Immerse yourself in the charm of the Alsatian region with its half-timbered houses, picturesque villages, and vineyard-covered hills. Explore Strasbourg, visit the fairytale village of Colmar, and indulge in the region’s renowned cuisine, combining French and German influences.
• Normandy: Discover the historic and picturesque region of Normandy, known for its stunning coastline, charming towns, and poignant World War II sites. Visit the beautiful city of Rouen, explore the magnificent Mont-Saint-Michel, and pay your respects at the D-Day landing beaches.
• Chamonix-Mont-Blanc: For outdoor enthusiasts, a visit to the French Alps is a must. Chamonix is the gateway to the alpine wonderland, offering opportunities for hiking, skiing, and breathtaking views of Mont Blanc, the highest peak in Western Europe.

These are just a few of the many incredible destinations to explore as a solo traveler in France. Each place offers a unique blend of history, culture, natural beauty, and culinary delights, ensuring an unforgettable experience that will leave you with lasting memories.

Solo Dining Experiences in France

France is renowned for its culinary prowess, and experiencing the gastronomic delights of this country is a must for any traveler. Even as a solo traveler, dining alone in France can be a delightful and memorable experience. Here are some solo dining tips and recommendations to enhance your culinary journey:

• Bistros and Cafés: Embrace the café culture of France by dining at authentic bistros and quaint neighborhood cafés. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast of croissants and café au lait while people-watching, or savor a traditional French lunch or dinner with dishes like coq au vin or confit de canard.
• Outdoor Markets: France is famous for its vibrant outdoor markets, offering a wide array of fresh produce, cheeses, charcuterie, and more. Pick up some delectable treats from the market and create a picnic to enjoy in a nearby park or scenic spot. It’s a delightful way to indulge in local flavors while enjoying the picturesque setting.
• Food Tours and Cooking Classes: Joining a food tour or taking a cooking class is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in French cuisine while meeting like-minded food lovers. Explore local food markets, learn cooking techniques, and indulge in the culinary delights under the guidance of expert chefs and guides.
• Michelin-starred Restaurants: Treat yourself to a fine dining experience at one of the many Michelin-starred restaurants in France. Solo dining is warmly welcomed, and you can enjoy exquisite tasting menus crafted by world-renowned chefs, accompanied by impeccable service.
• Wine Tastings: France is globally acclaimed for its wines, and visiting wine regions like Bordeaux, Burgundy, or Champagne offers a unique opportunity to discover French vintages. Participate in wine tastings and vineyard tours, where you can learn about different wine varietals, production techniques, and food pairings.
• Brasseries: Brasseries are quintessentially French establishments that are known for serving hearty and comforting dishes. These lively and bustling restaurants often have a wide range of menu options, making them a great choice for solo travelers who want variety and ambiance.
• Museum Cafés: Many museums in France have their own cafés or restaurants, making it convenient to enjoy a meal or snack while admiring the art and culture. This is an ideal option for solo travelers who want to combine a cultural experience with dining.
• Wander and Explore: One of the joys of solo dining in France is the opportunity to explore authentic local eateries off the beaten path. Take a stroll through the streets, discover hidden gems, and follow your nose to find charming restaurants and patisseries that locals frequent.

Remember, dining alone allows you to savor the flavors without distractions, appreciate the artistry of French cuisine, and fully indulge in the experience. Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and try new dishes, as France offers a rich culinary tapestry that entices even the most discerning palates.

So, whether you’re enjoying a croissant in a Parisian café, sipping wine in a vineyard in Bordeaux, or savoring the flavors of regional specialties in a hidden gem, solo dining in France is a journey for your taste buds that is sure to leave you craving for more.

Connecting with Other Solo Travelers in France

Traveling solo in France doesn’t mean you have to be alone throughout your journey. There are various ways to connect with other solo travelers and create meaningful connections along the way. Here are some tips to help you meet fellow adventurers:

• Stay in Social Accommodations: Choose accommodations such as hostels, guesthouses, or communal rentals that promote social interaction. These places often have common areas, organized events, or group activities where you can meet like-minded travelers.
• Join Group Tours and Activities: Participate in group tours, city walks, or outdoor activities that attract solo travelers. This gives you the chance to bond with others who share similar interests and explore together. Look for tours or activities specifically designed for small groups or solo travelers.
• Use Social Media and Travel Forums: Join travel-related social media groups or forums to connect with other travelers who are visiting France. Seek advice, share experiences, and even arrange meet-ups with fellow solo travelers in the same area.
• Visit Traveler Hangout Spots: Certain areas in France are known for attracting a large number of backpackers and solo travelers. Head to popular spots like the Marais in Paris, the Old Port in Marseille, or the Promenade des Anglais in Nice, where you’re likely to meet other travelers in cafés, bars, or hostels.
• Take Solo-Friendly Classes or Workshops: Enroll in cooking classes, language courses, or even dance workshops that cater to solo travelers. These activities not only expand your skills but also provide opportunities to meet fellow adventurers.
• Attend Meetups or Expat Events: Look for local meetups or expat events happening in the cities you’re visiting. Websites like Meetup or Facebook groups often have gatherings and activities specifically designed to connect travelers and locals.
• Volunteer or Work Exchange Programs: Engage in volunteer work or participate in work exchange programs where you can meet other travelers sharing the same experience. Collaborating on a project together creates a sense of camaraderie and gives you the chance to share stories and make lifelong friendships.
• Strike Up Conversations: Don’t be afraid to initiate conversations with other solo travelers you meet along the way. Whether you’re sitting next to someone on public transportation, in a café, or exploring a tourist site, a friendly smile or a simple “hello” can lead to interesting conversations and potential travel companions.

Connecting with other solo travelers can enhance your experience in France by providing shared moments, insider tips, and the chance to create lasting friendships. However, always use caution and trust your instincts when meeting new people. Ensure you adhere to personal safety measures and meet in public spaces, especially when meeting someone for the first time.

Remember, solo travel in France can be as social or as solitary as you desire. Embrace the freedom to connect with others and enrich your journey with shared experiences, laughter, and the opportunity to forge international connections.

Traveling solo in France offers a world of adventure, discovery, and personal growth. The country’s rich culture, breathtaking landscapes, and culinary delights make it an ideal destination for solo travelers. Throughout your journey, you’ll have the opportunity to indulge in the freedom of exploring at your own pace, immersing yourself in the local culture, and connecting with like-minded adventurers.

From the vibrant streets of Paris to the charming villages of Provence, from the breathtaking coastlines of the French Riviera to the historic sites of Normandy, France captivates solo travelers with its diverse offerings. Whether you’re wandering through art-filled museums, sipping local wines in vineyards, or enjoying a leisurely picnic by the Seine, every experience in France is bound to be memorable and enriching.

While embarking on your solo journey, remember to prioritize safety by staying informed, being aware of your surroundings, and trusting your instincts. Take advantage of the numerous transportation options available to explore the country with ease and convenience. And don’t forget to embrace the unique culinary experiences, whether it’s savoring a buttery croissant in a Parisian café or sampling local delicacies in bustling food markets.

Connect with fellow travelers along the way, share stories, and create memories that will last a lifetime. But also cherish the moments of solitude, allowing yourself to fully absorb the beauty and serenity of your surroundings.

So, embrace the spirit of adventure, make lifelong friendships, and create an unforgettable solo trip to France. Discover the magic that awaits you in this enchanting country and let it inspire your sense of wanderlust and love for exploration.

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Solo Travel in the French Riviera

If you're looking for a   solo trip to France and are unsure where to go, the French Riviera is nothing short of spectacular. This area, located in Southern France, boasts some of the best in nature, history, beaches, and the high life. For those who are longing to explore the area, from castles to waterfronts, doing it alone can be a lot of fun. There are a few things to keep in mind for a solo trip to the French Riviera.

Monaco 

Monte Carlo is one of the top destinations in the French Riviera, particularly for the glamorous and elite. It also happens to be the home of the famous Casino de Monte-Carlo, largely considered to be the most luxurious casino in the world. It’s well known for its beautiful design and decor, and it’s been featured in Ocean’s Twelve and several James Bond films. Thus, if you’ve been waiting for the perfect opportunity to  channel your inner Bond girl , this is the place to do it. 

* Read: Solo Travel in Monaco

Dazzle in Marseille

Marseille is a fantastic location for those seeking lavish surroundings and exceptional cuisine. This community has a number of historical neighbourhoods, perfect for the girl who wants to embrace the culture of Southern France. On the other hand, there’s much more to see and do here. The markets, always bustling and beautiful, along with the old harbor are a few additional treasures to enjoy here. For the girl who loves to set sail, or who wants to relax under the sun on a luxurious yacht, Marseille is a sensational destination.

* Discover what to see and do in Marseille

Explore St. Tropez

When it comes to  solo travel in Europe , St. Tropez is likely on your list of must-see destinations. As part of the French Riviera, this coastal town is absolutely breathtaking. Long ago, it was nothing more than a small fishing village. Today, it is known for its luxury from sun to sand. Be sure to check out Pampellone Beach, and its many beach clubs. There’s nearly always a celebrity lurking on one of the large yachts out in the water, too. For those who love adventure, engage in some parasailing. It’s a stunning sight to see from up above.

* Discover what to see and do in Saint Tropez

Check Out the Party at Cannes

If you’re young, at least at heart, visit Cannes. This is the destination people come to relax, put their feet up, dab on the suntan lotion, and relax under the sun. It’s known for its fantastic food, too. For those seeking a bit more adventure, go for a hike. There are red rock formations near the sea that make for the ideal exploration opportunity. For those who love art, you can tour Eglise Notre Dame de Vie. It was the home of Pablo Picasso.

* Discover what to see and do in Cannes

Summer Vacation in Nice

One of the most popular tourist destinations during the warm summer months is Nice. This seaside city is a unique combination of history and modern living. The water is beautifully blue and clear here, making both boating and swimming fantastic. It’s ideal for sunbathing too but you definitely won’t want to watching the waistline as the French cuisine here could be some of the best in the French Riviera. While you are here, visit the flower market on Avenue Jean Medecin. Be sure to sample the bakeries in the morning for breakfast too.

* Discover what to see and do in Nice

Enjoy the History and Beauty of Villefranche

Take the train from Nice to Villefranche-sur-Mer. It is less crowded most of the year. There are two villas here, the Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild and the Villa Kerylos, that you can tour. Spend a few hours taking one of the nature trails in the village to experience some fab coastal views. The food here is also quite traditional, giving you an authentic experience of the French Riviera.

The French Riviera makes for the ideal location for solo travel no matter if you want to see the sites, dabble in a bit of history, or just spend your time along the waterfront. Even better, there is always something new to see and do here. You can visit the other cities in the area or just find a nice bistro for a bit of quiet reflection on the history present throughout this region. It’s perfect for solos. 

* Discover what to see and do in Villefranche  

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A Solo Paris Trip – How to Perfectly Enjoy Paris Alone

Traveling Paris solo is maybe not the first thing that comes to your mind when thinking about where to spend your next vacation. But you know what? Despite all the love and sparkles, Paris is an utterly fantastic destination to traveling alone to.

In fact, there is so much to do and to discover that you’ll be happy to have planned traveling solo to Paris. Not only can you explore Paris at your own pace, there’s also no one around to silently judge you for enjoying a few too many croissants and glasses of wine.

Salut, I am Lena – travel planning expert and parisienne since 2006 🩷

If you purchase through links on this site, I may earn – at no cost to you – a small commission. This helps me cover my costs and keep my website running. Thank you so much for your support 🙂   Learn more

A solo Paris trip is the right thing to and this romantic Paris guide for one I am showing you how to spend a fabulous time alone in the city of love . So whether you’re looking for some time alone, couldn’t find a travel partner or simply prefer traveling alone to Paris, you surely don’t need to fear to get bored.

Interesting reads for your solo travel to Paris, France:

• 18 free Museums in Paris (+tips to save on the others)
• What NOT to do in Paris -23 (costly) Paris Mistakes you need to avoid!
• The best Arrondissement to stay in Paris (Top 3 + Hotel Tips)

Traveling to Paris Solo: Why there’s Nothing to Worry About

Paris is a terrific city and a dream destination for so many of us. The sheer abundance of activities, experiences, and impressions Paris offers has the power to make your heart overflow with joy. Not having (or wanting!) a travel partner should not at all stop you from savoring every second of this marvelous adventure.

I have taken myriad solo trips over the years to destinations all over the world. Today, when roaming through Paris, I am mostly on my own. And I love it.

A few reasons why a solo Paris trip is just the right thing

• I have rarely been to a city with so much to see and do than in Paris. That’s actually the best reason for a Paris solo trip. Because if your worry is feeling lonely in Paris on your own, you can easily fill up your schedule to the max, and you’ll be busy for days.
• Even though Paris is known to be the most romantic city, many people are on their own here. In cafés, restaurants, parks, in cinemas, museums… it is not weird at all to be alone in Paris , it’s rather quite common. Think of all the business travelers, expats, students, au pairs… they are all alone in Paris.
• Paris is the best city to just wander around, and this is an activity you truly can do best when in Paris on your own.
• But if you are keen on company, you don’t have to do be alone in Paris. If you want to meet with someone for a coffee or a drink, there are plenty of Facebook and Meetup groups to easily connect with fellow travelers or locals. You also could take a guided tour to connect with others.

CHECKLIST for your Paris Trip

• Get a Travel Adapter
• Book your airport transfer
• 🚨 Get Travel Insurance
• Buy your SIM card in advance

✔ Hotel booked?

• Budget: Hotel France Albion (8.6)
• Midrange: Hôtel des Arts (9.6)
• Upscale: Millésime Hôtel (9.2)

✔ Tickets booked?

• Eiffel Tower ( book here )
• Louvre ( book here )
• Versailles ( book here )

Is a Solo Trip to Paris Safe?

Overall, yes, travelling solo in Paris is a safe thing to do. Not at least because Paris is one of the safest cities in Europe. But this obviously doesn’t mean that you should be trowing all caution overboard. Can you safely go everywhere?

Yes. But should you be walking around at 3 am, waving drunkenly with your new iPhone 14? Better not.

On the Safe Cities Index 2021 by the Economist, Paris made it to place 23 in overall security. After Copenhagen, Amsterdam, and New York, but before Brussels, Dubai, and Rome.

However, when it comes to personal security, Paris is even in place 6 . Everyone’s safety radar ticks differently, but Paris is not a place known for danger if you apply common sense:

• Know about common scams – read more about it here 
• Avoid shady areas – read more about the best hotel locations here
• Watch your surroundings and be attentive
• Stay in public places & don’t ever accept drinks from strangers, especially if you did not see how your drink was purred into your glass.

Solo female travel in Paris: is it safe?

From my personal, female, experience, I can say that I never felt unsafe in Paris . And I did live in shifty areas, walked home at night alone, and well, did not always use common sense. Regardless of my luck, I admittedly also know people who were less lucky and got robbed or harassed.

All this is to tell you that Paris is just a normal city that overall is safe. Probably not much different from your hometown or any other city that you have traveled to.

Is Paris safe for solo female travellers ? Yes, it is. At least not more or less than any other place in Europe. However, If you are traveling alone as a female to Paris, you will likely be catcalled at one point. Sad and uncomfortable, but normally not dangerous.

What’s the Best Area to Stay in Paris Alone

Where to stay in Paris is an often discussed question and of course, when traveling alone, it is essential to stay in a safe area in Paris. As a rule of thumb, the more central, the safer.

You can’t do anything wrong if you stay in a central area like the Marais or the Quartier Latin. But as well the southern and western areas of Paris like the 14th, 15th, and 16th arrondissements are good, but they are also pretty quiet areas to stay.

Also interesting: 20 Arrondissements in Paris (Quick Guide + Map)

Luckily, most hotels are in very safe areas that I highlighted green on the map below, and you won’t run into trouble finding a suitable hotel there. If you are traveling on a budget, you need to be more attentive, though.

Many of the budget-friendly hotels are in the north of Paris, and trust me, it is not an area where you necessarily want to spend your Paris vacation. (highlighted in red on the map)

Below, I am suggesting you a few hotels in Paris that you can book without hesitation. They are all in absolutely safe locations, with plenty of amenities and sights around and, of course, the best Paris vibes:

• Les Jardins du Luxembourg – perfectly located in the Latin Quarter, not far from the Panthéon.
• Hôtel Ducs de Bourgogne – right by the Pont-Neuf and the Louvre, breakfast included
• Le Basile Hôtel – Between Opèra, Champs-Élysés and Louvre, lovely interior
• Esprit Saint Germain – luxury hotel near Saint Sulpice, Jardin du Luxembourg & St. Michel
• Hotel Rivoli – no frills budget option but in a stellar location on Rue de Rivoli

Traveler’s Tip for traveling to Paris solo: Stay in the Marais

As a solo traveler, it’s important to base yourself in a safe neighborhood with lots to do, great places to eat, and a central location for exploring. The district of the Marais is located in the 3rd and 4th arrondissements of the city, on the right banks of the Seine. It is the trendiest neighborhood in Paris and a must-visit for every solo travel to Paris.

The neighborhood of the Marais is an attraction itself, with many charming cobblestone alleyways to explore. The Marais is also home to a growing vegan and vegetarian movement, try HANK burger or Wild & The Moon for great veggie-forward eats.

One of the best things to do in the Marais solo is sip coffee at a streetside cafe and enjoy some watching everyday Parisian life go by. The picturesque exterior of Boot Cafe invites you to some of the best coffee in the district.

If you are an art lover, the Picasso National Museum can be explored for hours and boasts a beautiful interior staircase. Stop by Place des Vosges, the first square in Paris lined with grand homes, to read a book on the grass by the fountain.

By Haley of Haley Blackall Travel

Paris Solo Trip: Eating Alone in Paris

First – and this you should internalize like a mantra – it is NOT weird to eat alone in Paris. Not.Weird.

Of course, you will see many couples and groups that are sharing their meal, but if you look closely, you’ll spot many people who eat by themselves . Some will read a book or a newspaper, others might browse through their phones, but many are just sitting there with a glass of wine, watching the world go by and enjoying their meal.

However, I entirely understand that eating alone when traveling solo in Paris is not the easiest thing to do. If you don’t feel comfortable sitting alone in a restaurant when on solo travel to Paris, you have plenty of alternatives for not starving.

Paris solo travel: where to eat if not in a restaurant?

• Eat at Pret-a-Manger, Exki, Felicità , or even Starbucks. It might not be the cozy French Brasserie, but many people are using these cafés as their coworking space. Being alone in this environment is the most normal thing.
• Get a fresh baguette from one of the outstanding Parisian bakeries and some cheese from a nearby fromagerie and make a little picnic by the Seine or in one of the beautiful parks in Paris.

Traveler’s Tip on dining when travelling solo in Paris

Eating solo might be the hardest part of traveling alone to a particular destination. It can feel awkward and weird, but part of traveling alone is embracing the fact that you are a strong and independent person.

Paris is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe , full of many wonderful cafés, so it is pretty easy to dine solo in this bustling city. On every corner, you will find a nice café that is casual enough to sit at and read a book while sipping on a coffee or eating a croissant. You will not look out of place at all because many people around will be doing just the same.

Some recommendations include Café de Flore , the oldest coffeehouse in Paris, situated on one of the prettiest streets in Paris, the Boulevard St.Germain . It has become famous for its clientele, including renowned writers and philosophers. Trying their hot chocolate is a must as it is so rich and delicious.

Another perfect restaurant for solo travelers is Le Choupinet where you can eat wonderful French cuisine. This restaurant has cute teddy bears, so you won’t be necessarily dining solo after all!

In fact, throughout Paris, you will find many cafés with these bears. The teddy bear hype started in the Gobelins Neighborhood , but since a bit, you find them in many restaurants all over Paris.

Thanks, Jackie from JouJou Travels for the suggestion

The Best Things To Do in Paris Alone

When traveling alone, it’s best to choose a destination that is so packed with things to do and see that you don’t risk getting bored. Paris is such a destination, if not actually the best.

Paris is so full of sights, museums, and attractions, that you could keep yourself busy for weeks and weeks. I am showing you what you shouldn’t miss when traveling alone in Paris .

Important: Plan ahead for the top sights when visiting Paris!

I know, it kills a bit the spontaneous, easy-going vacation vibe you are might be keen on, especially, when traveling alone to Paris. But there are a few reasons why you should book your tickets in advance when visiting Paris.

• Popular sights like the Eiffel Tower or the Catacombs book out weeks in advance , especially in high season
• Some ticket booths on site might be closed or require you to queue for hours

You see now, why I strongly recommend that you book your entrance tickets in advance to avoid disappointment or wasting time queuing.

Book your attraction tickets in advance, even when traveling Paris alone

To make it easier for you and save you time in Paris, you find in the following a list of sights that you absolutely need to book before you arrive in Paris . For your convenience, I added links to my most trusted ticket provider:

• The Eiffel Tower – click here for tickets to the summit!
• The Louvre – Click here to see the Mona Lisa
• The Catacombs  – click here to enter Paris’ underground
• The Castle of Versailles – book your ticket here

Of course, you also can purchase tickets directly on the sights homepages. However, the downside is that they usually don’t have a cancellation policy. While reserving your Paris tickets with get your guide grants you a 24h cancellation and full refund policy. A strong point because we all know how weather and plans can change.

#1 Enjoy a Seine River Cruise on your Paris Solo Trip

Click here to know more about cruise schedules, prices, and bookings

There are many wonderful viewpoints in Paris to enjoy the unique cityscape, but one of the most amazing and popular ways to see Paris is by hopping on a Seine River Cruise .

The cruise tour begins from various locations, usually running through the city center of Paris from Notre Dame to the Eiffel Tower . This is a good opportunity to get an overview of all the key attractions along the River Seine , including Le Louvre, Musée d’ Orsay, Place de la Concorde, invalids, Petit Palais, and Grand Palais.

Just take a seat on deck and enjoy your solo travel to Paris. Put your headphones in to listen to the audio guide of the cruise, to your favorite music, podcast or audiobook and relish the beauty of Paris.

There are 37 bridges and footbridges across the Seine, and each of them has its beauty and history. The tour passes some of the most famous bridges in France , like Pont Neuf, Pont des Arts, and Pont Alexandre III . Solo travelers can enjoy the moment to appreciate the magnificent architecture, enjoy a meal on the water, and meet other fellow travelers on the journey.

Thanks Knycx Journeying for the suggestion

#2 Visit the Eiffel Tower

→ Click here to reserve your spot on the lift to the summit

Think for a second about one thing you associate with Paris. Chances are you’ve thought of the Eiffel Tower. Not surprisingly, the Eiffel Tower is one of the most visited sights in France and the whole world.

So, it’s only natural to include a visit to the world-famous Eiffel Tower in your Paris trip. With its considerable size, this famous building can hardly be overlooked. Already, during a walk through the streets of Paris, you can see the impressive Eiffel Tower from many parts of the city.

It is especially striking at night, when its facade is illuminated, becoming a beloved photo motif for locals and visitors alike. Even for solo travelers, a visit here is an absolute highlight . You can go up and enjoy the view of this great city, or maybe even celebrate yourself with a glass of Champagne.

Whether you visit in daylight or the dark is entirely up to you and your preference. Book your ticket here to save time.

If you’re visiting Paris on a budget , and you’re still young or even a student, be sure to bring your (student) ID to get a discount on your ticket.

Thanks, Vicky from Vickiviaja for the suggestion

#3 Relax in the Jardin du Palais Royal

The beautiful Jardin du Palais-Royal is a small but inviting garden located on the grounds of the former royal palace. Situated just over the road from the Louvre, it’s in a handy central location and one of the best Paris attractions.

What makes it different from other gardens in Paris is that it’s a place that the locals frequent. From dog walkers to locals simply taking a quiet moment to themselves, solo travelers will feel right at home being on their own. At the southern end of the grounds are the iconic black-and-white striped Buren’s columns. If they look familiar, it’s not surprising. It’s a filming location for “Emily in Paris ”.

The columns are where most tourists will linger, while the Northern end of the garden is where you can get a slice of tranquility. Discover a large fountain that’s framed by colorful flower beds and perfectly manicured rows of boxed hedges and trees. With no gaggles of selfie-snapping tourists, the result is a quiet and peaceful area that provides an oasis from city life.  Be sure to bring a book if you intend to spend a couple of hours here. The Jardin du Palais-Royal is the perfect place for solo travelers to take a seat, read a book, and watch the world go by.

Thanks, Jessie Moore of Pocket Wanderings for the suggestion

#4 Explore the Parisian Cemeteries

It may seem like an unusual activity to promote, but for a solo Paris traveler, strolling over the cemeteries of Paris is both calming and interesting. Visit the final resting place of some of history’s most famous figures, admire the intricate mausoleums, and enjoy the tranquility.  

The joy of traveling Paris alone is that you have plenty of time for reflection, and these quiet spots are perfect for that.

Père Lachaise is the most prominent cemetery in Paris. Jim Morrison from The Doors, the poet Oscar Wilde, and the French chanteuse Edith Piaf are all buried there. The Montparnasse Cemetery isn’t as big, but has some of the literary greats within its manicured walls. Baudelaire, Jean-Paul Sartre, and Simone de Beauvoir, just to name a few.

Top Tip:   When visiting Père Lachaise by public transport, stay on the metro one more stop and get off at Gambetta – this means you can walk down the hill instead of up.

Thanks, Hannah of From HH Lifestyle Travel for the suggestion

Also see our article on free things to do in Paris , if you are traveling on a tighter budget.

#5 Visit the Louvre and the Mona Lisa (she is alone in Paris, too)

Click here to buy your admission ticket for the Louvre

A place nobody can miss when in Paris is the Louvre Museum . Set in what once was a fortress on the right bank of the Seine River, the building itself saw many changes. Until 1547, when Francis I, king of France, decided to demolish it and build his royal residence on top of the remains – which are actually still visible. As he was a lover of art, the king started collecting many pieces, with subsequent kings adding to the collection.

Once Louis XIV decided the court should be moved to Versailles , the Louvre was no longer used as a royal palace. It was finally turned into a museum in 1793 and since then, started hosting some of the best pieces of art in the world. Today, it is the most famous art gallery in Paris and the world.

Among them are the famous Leonardo’s Mona Lisa and the Virgin of the Rocks , the Wedding at Cana , the Venus of Milo , the Winged Victory, and the Coronation of Napoleon.. just to name a few of the famous paintings of the Louvre . In fact, you’ve got so much to see in the Louvre, that it doesn’t matter whether you are alone or with friends or your family.

Upon visiting, take care to also marvel at the impressive pyramid that marks the main gate. It was designed by Chinese architect Pei Cobb upon the request of François Mitterrand (the then French President).

Tip: If the queue by the Pyramid is too long, head down to the entrance “Carousel du Louvre” which you can reach directly from the Metro station. To avoid waiting times, purchase your tickets in advance here .

The Louvre is open Wednesday to Monday from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm and admission is €17.

Thanks, Claudia Tavani from ‘My Adventures Across The World’ for the suggestion

More cool things to do alone in Paris

#6 Explore Street Art in the 13th Arrondissement

When in Paris, and you have been to all the tourist landmarks, head to the 13th arrondissement and explore the local street art. You can explore the area on your own, but honestly, the added value of joining an organized walking tour 13th arrondissement is immense.

As art always depicts something related to the current socio-economic-political situation in France, a l ocal artist guide is great to put the art pieces into context . The 13th arrondissement is particularly well-known for its gigantic murals. Every wall design is unique and changes often, depending on the political climate.

I did the Street Art Tour with Kasia 2 years ago, and it was brilliant. It was lovely to catch up with fellow travelers, and many actually joined the tour on their own.

The 13th arrondissement is located in the southern part of Paris. Here you will find, aside from street art, as well the Chinatown of Paris , and the unique Butte-aux-Cailles . A cute neighborhood with an authentic flair, many pretty cafés, bars, and eateries.

Dave of Silverbackpacker for the suggestion

How to get there: Take Metro line 5, 6 or 7 to Place d’Italie

Best for: Street Art, Asian culture and delicious food, village vibe at the Butte-aux-Cailles

Where to eat:  Felicità for amazing Italian food, Tang Frère for the best Bánh Mì in Paris, and Lao Lane Xang for moderate-priced Thai food that made it to the Michelin Guide

#7 Visit the Arc de Triomphe

Click here for tickets to the top of the Arc de Triomphe

For anyone visiting Paris, there are so many wonderful sights you have to tick off your solo trip to Paris itinerary , and at the top should be the Arc de Triomphe.

This magnificent structure sits at the top of the Champs-Élysées, surrounded by one of the world’s most complicated roundabouts. No matter which European City you visit , you won’t find anything alike.

This remarkable monument was built to honor French soldiers who lost their lives in the Revolutionary wars and the Napoleonic Wars. For more information, also read our article with 35 Arc de Triomphe Fun Facts .

While many people take the time to stand and gaze at it from the street, you can also use the tunnels that run under the roundabout to stand underneath it. Here you will also find the Flame of the Unknown Soldier. Its story is engrained in Parisian history and because of this, it is one of the best-known monuments in the world.

The Arc de Triomphe is also one of the best places in Paris for epic views over the city and an outstanding photo spot for pictures of the Eiffel Tower!

Once at the top, you have all the time in the world to walk the entire Terrace level and get some of the most stunning views over Paris. Take your time to watch the utter chaos of the roundabout below and the truly beautiful city of Paris that surrounds you. Purchase your tickets here in advance to save time.

Recommended by Bec from Wyld Family Travel

#8 Enjoy the view from the Terrace at the Galeries Lafayette

The Galeries Lafayette is not only a place for an exquisite shopping experience, but also known for stunning panoramic views across Paris. Contrary to everything else in this shopping paradise, the rooftop is completely free!

Unlike some expensive tourist honey spots, there is a lot of room here, so you can relax and enjoy the view and not feel rushed taking that all-important selfie or impromptu photoshoot!

The space and general laid-back vibe also contribute to this being a great place to while away some time whilst visiting Paris solo. In the warmer months, there are hip pop-up restaurants that may well be busier.

The terrace is open daily from 10 am to 8 pm.

My tip for visiting Paris solo is to plan your arrival in daylight hours and wait until the sun sets!

Thanks for the recommendation, Molly from Lovely Local Indie

#9 Visit the Palace and Gardens of Versailles

→ save time and book your visit in advance here

The Palace of Versailles is not only of the best Instagram spots in Paris , but you can truly step back in time and even escape from the crowds if you opt to explore the gardens (which are free in Winter!).

To get there, you can take the train from Paris. It’s not a very long ride, and in fact, the view from the window is quite nice. Then, once you arrive in Versailles, it’s only a short walk to the palace.

If you intend to visit Versailles, the best piece of advice is to purchase your ticket online in advance and try to show up as early as you can. This way, you can avoid the large queues.

Try to explore the palace quickly and then rent a bike out in the garden to explore the outdoors on your own. Almost nobody explores further into the gardens, so you can have an area to yourself!

Contributed by Krystianna from Volumes & Voyages

#10 Visit the Palais Garnier

→ Get your admission tickets for the Palais Garnier here

A visit to The Palais Garnier is a must-do  indoor activity in Paris and a great way for solo travelers to experience art and culture in Paris.

From the outside, The Palais Garnier is stunning and one of the most impressive buildings in Paris. But it will also take your breath away as soon as you enter. You’ll feel like you’re in a movie about Paris and sometimes wonder if you’re in a castle or in an opera.

The best way to experience The Palais Garnier is to  watch an opera, a ballet, or a concert in the beautiful theater. It’s a perfect activity for a solo traveler in Paris, who can even meet people sitting next to them.

Even if you cannot get hold of tickets to attend a show, don’t remove The Palais Garnier from your list of activities. You can  join a tour  (guided or self-guided) to discover the beauty of the building and the iconic rooms.

Thanks for the recommendation, Eloise from My Favourite Escapes

#11 Explore Montmartre on your solo travel to Paris

Exploring Montmartre is a perfect Parisian afternoon activity for a solo traveler, as taking in this charming Bohemian neighborhood is best explored on foot and in a relaxed, strolling manner.

Everyone visits Sacré Coeur, the shockingly white basilica set on a hill. Sacré Coeur is beautiful but busy. For a quieter and more unique experience, go around to the backside of the church.

Paris solo travel: spend time exploring the most beautiful Parisian neighborhoods

From here, there are many places to discover in Montmartre . Amble around Place du Tertre, watching the artists paint and sell their wares. Go see two famous restaurants: Le Consulat and La Maison Rose. Both are in distinctive buildings, that you’ve probably seen before. La Maison Rose is, for example, a filming location of the Netflix series “Emily in Paris” .

Also read: 70+ most famous and inspiring quotes about Paris

Find some of Montmartre’s famed staircases, and then check out the famous Moulin Rouge cabaret. You can also see the lesser-known but charmingly quaint Moulin de la Galette. Lastly, stroll down the picturesque Rue de l’Abreuvoir and Rue Lepic, admiring the beautiful doors, Parisian architecture, and flower pots outside the windows! With numerous charming spots, you’re sure to enjoy your foray into this unique neighborhood.

Recommended by Stephanie from The Unknown Enthusiast

Popular walking tours for solo travelers in Montmartre

• Best BUDGET tour:  This  Montmartre Walking tour   has the best reviews on  Get your Guide
• Click  here  to know more about the most popular  Montmartre Food Tour !

#12 Visit Rue des Martyrs

The  best food street in Paris , Rue des Martyrs, is the perfect outing for anyone on a solo trip to Paris. This tree-lined street in the 9th has a carousel at one end, and the Neoclassical Notre Dame de Lorette church at the other. In between are food shops of every kind for locals to gather their daily provisions . Since many of these shoppers come alone, a solo traveler fits right in.

Take your time strolling past some of the most beautiful pâtisserie windows of Paris. Duck into a boulangerie for a fresh baguette, some cheese from the fromagerie , and some charcuterie from the butcher, and you’re all set for a picnic. It’s one of the best places to tick off some items from your Paris food bucket list .

The colorful local produce is divine, and you’ll find shops for just about any food souvenir you may want, from tea to truffles and specialty chocolates. Or if you rather sit and gawk, there are many cafés for people watching and eateries to enjoy a snack.

Thanks, Denise from Chef Denise for the suggestion

#12 Enjoy time by the River Seine

What could be more iconically Parisian than sitting along the Seine River and having a drink or reading a book about Paris ? The Seine snakes through the city and, during the warmer months, its banks (or quais in French) are packed with picnickers. As the day wears on, revelers drink in the city’s beauty- and the wine that France is so famous for.

It is a fabulous place to take in the sites – for example, Port Debilly provides a quiet setting to see stunning views of the Eiffel Tower towering above. But more than anything, it’s a wonderful environment to sit back, people watch, and enjoy the lively spirit of Paris.

For the best people-watching (and meeting!) opportunities, consider stopping by the Latin Steps, where the riverbank transforms into a public dance floor almost every night in the summer. No matter what level of ability you are- and regardless if you have a partner – you’ll be welcomed into salsa, tango, or just groove the night away.

Thanks, Jessica from Uproot Traveler for the suggestion

#13 Visit the musée d’Orsay when travelling to Paris alone

→ don’t lose time, book your ticket to the Musée d’Orsay here

One of the most popular and famous landmarks in Paris is the D’orsay museum, located on the left bank of the Seine River. It is not only a beautiful building but holds an unbelievable number of impressionist masterpieces.

The Musée d’Orsay is a perfect solo experience. You can take all the time in the world to explore this once fine art building, which was originally a railway station and then transformed into a magnificent museum featuring these Impressionism masters. You’ll find paintings by all the major artists, like Degas, Matisse, Monet, and Van Gogh, just to name a few.

All the galleries are broken up into individual artist collections, so you get to savor all of your favorite artists in each section. If you are keen on trying some amazing food, take a break in their grand hall salon, which is a spectacular glass atrium with wonderful French-inspired cuisine to experience. Reserve your tickets here and save time when there.

Recommended by Noel from This Hawaii Life

#14 Try delicious pastry at Odette

Odette is remarkable for solo travelers craving a slow afternoon in Paris. A place, where they can experience the city like a local and yet still sit and relax among some of Paris’ most famous historic landmarks. Odette Pâtisserie must be added to your itinerary.

The original Odette location (there are two now) is incomparable. At 77 rue Galande, just behind the famous bookstore Shakespeare & Company , the pâtisserie is small but full of character. From the eye-popping yet classic elements of Art-Deco design to the breathtaking views of Notre Dame Cathedral from the cozy upstairs tearoom.

The entire experience of an afternoon snack at Odette is one-of-a-kind.

It’s ideal for solo travelers because the atmosphere is intimate; nothing to stop you from sipping hot chocolate and enjoying their famous cream puffs on your own . At Odette, you experience Paris authentically, escaping the city’s bustle for a moment, while watching over the liveliness from the windows at your own pace.

Thanks, Michela from SHE goes the distance for the suggestion

Voilà, travelling to Paris alone is a truly great experience, and you can be sure not to get bored. It is very common in Paris to take yourself to dinner or to a museum, so you don’t have to worry to sticking out when enjoying your own company.

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PS: Check out these posts, they will help you plan your solo trip in Paris

• Paris hidden gems: 80+ well kept secrets you shouldn’t miss
• 14 Hotels with stunning Eiffel Tower views- for (almost) every budget!
• Your Perfect 2 Days in Paris! Itinerary & Insider Tips
• These are the best 5 Cabarets in Paris
• 5 ways to get from Charles de Gaulle airport to Paris – THE complete guide!
• Scams in Paris! How to avoid the most common cons

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FAQ Solo Travel Paris

Paris is one of the safest cities in Europe and on place 23 of the worldwide index of safest cities. When it comes to personal security, Paris is even ranging on place 6. Traveling to Paris alone is at least as safe as staying in your hometown. Likely even safer.

Absolutely. Paris is a fantastic city with more things to do than you can possibly squeeze into your stay. You have a plethora of sights, museums, exhibitions, landmarks, shops, restaurants, bars, shows and parks to pick from, and you are surely not getting bored. The wide range of activities is the perfect perquisite for a city that is wonderful to visit alone.

Yes, undoubtedly. Paris is one of the safest cities in Europe and ranks on place 6 (word wide) when it comes to personal safety. Apply the usual precautions and common sense, as you would in your hometown. I spend most of my time in Paris on my own, and I never had any issues.

The best things to do in Paris alone are visiting the Eiffel Tower, take lots of time in the fantastic Parisian museums, enjoying a glass of wine by yourself, reading a book in one of the lovely gardens, browsing the millions of stores… and relish Paris at your own pace.

Lena is the creator of Salut from Paris, a blog offering practical tips for exploring the city. Originally from Germany, she shares her Paris experiences, from iconic sights to hidden gems. Her blog helps travelers plan with ease, blending must-see attractions and authentic local spots.

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The Best Way To Spend 3 Days Solo in Bordeaux France

Do you need help figuring out what to do in Bordeaux for three days? Just say oui! I’ve just been there alone and devised a great plan for your visit.

This itinerary includes all the small details and tips you’ll need for your trip.

I traveled alone from Paris to Bordeaux, but this plan works for anyone, not just solo travelers.

Bordeaux is one of my all-time favorite destinations in France! Although three days is not necessarily a lot of time, if you follow this itinerary, you will see all the best sites this city has to offer!

Human-written content, by me, and nearly all original images, unless stated. Posts could have affiliate links to help offset the cost of maintaining this blog. When you click on a link, we receive a small commission. This is at no extra cost to you. See Our Affiliate Policy and Advertiser Disclosure for more info.

Bordeaux: 3-Day Itinerary Overview

Here is a brief overview of what you can expect on your first day in Bordeaux!

• Visiting the Primatial Cathedral of St Andrew of Bordeaux  (Bordeaux Cathedral)
• Climb the free-standing Bell Tower next to Bordeaux Cathedral

Visit the Monument aux Girondins

Lunch at l’entrecôte, tea at la diplomate, shopping on rue sainte catherine, dinner at nama.

Your second day in Bordeaux includes the option of joining a guided tour. If you prefer to do a self-guided tour, you are welcome to copy the itinerary listed from the guided tour.

• Breakfast at Café Piha – Torréfacteur
• Self-guided or 2-hour Guided Walking Tour of Bordeaux city highlights

Lunch at Symbiose

Explore jardin public, river cruise on garonne river, dinner at restaurant berthus.

Your last day in Bordeaux starts with leaving for the day and heading to the most picturesque village in France I have ever been to!

• Day trip to Saint Emilion Region
• Wine Tasting at Grand Cru Winery
• Explore the UNESCO World Heritage site town of Saint Emilion

Dinner at Restaurant Influences

Full itinerary, day 1 in bordeaux.

Cathédrale Saint-André de Bordeaux

Start your day at the impressive Bordeaux Cathedrale Saint Andre . I enjoy visiting a church more than visiting a museum.

This is not because I am a religious person, I find a building more interesting than a bunch of old artifacts.

Exploring the cathedral is a lovely way to spend a morning in Bordeaux. Visiting the Bordeaux Cathedral, also known as Cathédrale Saint-André de Bordeaux, is a captivating experience that offers a glimpse into the city’s history and architecture.

Climb The Cathedral’s Bell Tower

Next, get ready to ascend the Cathedral’s bell tower ! I promise it will be worth the breathtaking panoramic view of this beautiful city that awaits you.

From this vantage point, you can admire the city’s picturesque rooftops, the Garonne River winding through the landscape, and the surrounding historic buildings.

This 66-meter bell tower was constructed back in the 15th century. You must climb 233 steps in a narrow spiral staircase to reach the terrace at the top of the tower.

An extra tip from A Solo Woman Traveling : The wait for tickets can be a bit long, so go early. It’s a tight stairwell, so you should reconsider if you have issues being in small spaces.

After climbing the bell tower, walk 13 minutes to the most beautiful monument in Bordeaux!

The Monument aux Girondins is an incredibly beautiful fountain with a towering column erected to honor the Girondin revolutionaries.

The monument is located in the center of Bordeaux, near the Garonne River. It is the perfect spot to visit at sunset.

The Girondins Monument is a significant tourist attraction, so to avoid crowds, you may need to visit in the early morning.

If I could visit only one monument when visiting Bordeaux, this would be it. It was a wonderful experience for me.

Dining at L’Entrecôte in Bordeaux is a must when you are in Bordeaux! Famous since 1962, L’Entrecôte is located in the heart of the city and is known for its signature dish, the entrecôte steak.

After indulging at lunch you will walk 6 minutes to relax at my favorite tea house in Bordeaux. This tea salon exudes sophistication and offers a haven of relaxation.

As you enter La Diplomate , you’ll be greeted by an ambiance with refinement. The tasteful décor, featuring plush seating, soft lighting, and tasteful accents, creates an atmosphere of comfort and sophistication.

The attentive and knowledgeable staff ensures that your tea experience is nothing short of exceptional.

Spend the remainder of your day before dinner hitting the shops on the world-famous Rue Sainte Catherine.

Shopping on Rue Sainte Catherine in Bordeaux is one of the best places to go shopping!

As one of the longest shopping streets in Europe, Rue Sainte Catherine offers an array of shops, boutiques, department stores, and charming cafés.

Walking along Rue Sainte Catherine, you’ll find a mix of international brands, well-known retailers, and local boutiques, ensuring that there’s something for everyone’s taste and budget.

❤︎ Be advised that shops are closed on Sundays and holidays in France!

Finish your first day by eating at Nama in Bordeaux.

It might not be what you expect to eat at a Japanese / French-style bistro, but I encourage you to try it! I went all out and order the “mystery menu”.

Each dish was a total surprise and the most exciting way to have a meal in Bordeaux!

Whether you’re a fan of Japanese cuisine or a curious food adventurer, dining at Nama in Bordeaux promises an exceptional gastronomic journey.

Immerse yourself in Japan’s flavors, textures, and aromas as you savor each bite and appreciate the artistry that goes into every dish.

✈️ Are Ready to Travel Alone?: Take The Solo Travel Readiness Quiz!

Day 2 In Bordeaux

Wake up on your second day in Bordeaux, ready to see some major landmarks and eat croissants!

If you are looking for the best breakfast in Bordeaux, head on over to Café Piha—Torréfacteur. They offer more than delicious coffee and pastries.

Café Piha – Torréfacteur has a full breakfast with eggs if you are in the mood for something more savory.

Self-Guided or Guided Walking Tour of Top Attractions

After a filling breakfast, it is time to walk it off, seeing some of the rest of the top sites in Bordeaux.

My favorite part of visiting Bordeaux was just strolling around, admiring the incredible architecture.

From Cafe Piha, it is a 5-minute walk to your first stop!

The Grosse Cloche

When I first saw the Grosse Cloche I felt as if I was in a fairytale! It is a must-see for anyone visiting Bordeaux!

This iconic bell tower, dating back to the Middle Ages, is a testament to the city’s rich heritage and symbolizes civic pride.

The Grosse Cloche is located in a trendy neighborhood of the best wine bars and coffee shops and gets a bit crowded during the summer months.

Over the centuries, the Grosse Cloche witnessed numerous historical events and underwent several transformations.

In the 15th century, the tower was heightened to accommodate the growing population and provide a better vantage point for surveillance.

The bell housed within the Grosse Cloche played a crucial role in the city’s history. It was rung to announce curfews, signal emergencies, and mark significant events.

The bell’s resonant sound became ingrained in Bordeaux’s fabric, echoing through the city’s streets and squares.

If you want to visit the interior of the Grosse Cloche you can do so with a guide . Visitors can explore its interior, climb the winding staircase, and marvel at the stunning views from the top.

The tower’s chambers also house exhibitions that delve into Bordeaux’s history and the tower’s role in shaping the city.

Quais de Bordeaux Walk

After a visit to the Grosse Cloche, it is time to take a walk to Quais de Bordeaux Walk.

I had a great time visiting the Quais de Bordeaux Walk, a glorious stretch of road along the Garonne River.

Strolling along the promenade, you’ll get a real feel for just how grand and elegant this city is.

I loved admiring the 18th-century buildings, with their distinctive façades and wrought-iron balconies.

The Quais de Bordeaux Walk is also home to several iconic landmarks. The Place de la Bourse , with its magnificent Water Mirror, reflecting the grandeur of the surrounding buildings, is a sight to behold.

The majestic Pont de Pierre, a stone bridge with its impressive arches, connects both sides of the river and provides a perfect vantage point to admire the city’s skyline.

As you continue your stroll, you’ll come across lively squares and public spaces where locals and tourists gather and your next stop.

The Quai des Chartrons

Your walk along the promenade will take you to the Quai des Chartrons, an area known for its antique shops and art galleries.

Here, you can take a glimpse into Bordeaux’s artistic side and explore unique treasures, from vintage furniture to contemporary artwork.

Use Google Maps to know when to turn off the promenade and enter the posh neighborhood.

Quai des Chartrons has one-of-a-kind boutiques filled with hidden treasures. Exploring this area will take you to your lunch spot.

One of the best dining experiences I had in Bordeaux was at Symbiose . I highly recommend making a reservation there

Symbiose offers a prix fixe menu daily. Enjoy two starters, two main courses, and three desserts.

It is closed on Sundays. It is open Monday through Saturday from 12:00 p.m. to 1:45 p.m.

❤︎ Save Money in Bordeaux with the CITY PASS

After a fulfilling lunch at Symbiose, take a relaxing stroll in Jardin Public! I found the Jardin Public a serene oasis nestled within the bustling city.

Here I spent time on my solo trip exploring this enchanting public park.

The Jardin Public dates back to the 18th century and offers a variety of activities.

Jardin Public is also home to a magnificent lake, where graceful swans glide across the shimmering waters.

Musée d’Histoire Naturelle

Art and culture enthusiasts will find delight in the Musée d’Histoire Naturelle , located within Jardin Public.

This natural history museum showcases an extensive collection of specimens, fossils, and exhibits, offering an educational experience for visitors of all ages.

Exploring the museum’s halls provides insight into the wonders of the natural world and its diverse ecosystems.

You can buy a ticket to the exhibition from 10 to 13 euros .

At 5 pm be ready to take an hour and a half river cruise ! The cruise is approximately a 20-minute walk from Jardin Public, so plan accordingly.

On this cruise, you will embark on a memorable journey and discover Bordeaux from the enchanting waters of the River Garonne.

One of the highlights was catching a glimpse of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Gothic Cathedral, from the boat.

Cruising along, I almost had to pinch myself as we sailed along the riverbanks. These grand buildings exuded a sense of history and charm, showcasing Bordeaux’s past as a thriving trading port.

🎟️ Garrone River Cruise Tickets: Be sure to get your ticket in advance here!

After your boat cruise, I highly recommend reserving and eating dinner at Restaurant Berthus!

Eating here was one of my most memorable experiences, and keep in mind that I visited Bordeaux solo.

Even alone, it was an incredible experience. Simply put, Restaurant Berthus is a culinary delight that immerses you in the vibrant flavors of the region.

Day 3 in Bordeaux

Day Trips From Bordeaux to Saint Émilion

On the third day, a great place to visit in the Bordeaux wine region is Saint Emilion!

I can’t think of any other activity more fun in France than a half-day tour of a world-famous wine region!

Visiting Bordeaux without doing a wine tasting is like visiting Paris without seeing the Eiffel Tower. If this interests you, this is a perfect day trip from Bordeaux.

Not interested in wine? If you a rather do something else, I have you covered, check out this food tour !

Luckily, Bordeaux, France, is one of the top locations in Europe for wine tasting . Bordeaux wine has a great aging potential and excellent taste, which makes it a delight for wine lovers.

The history of wine in the Bordeaux region dates back to around 43 AD when the Romans cultivated wine for soldiers by establishing vineyards in the city. 

St. Emilion Day Trip

A day tour is a great way to see more of the surrounding areas without having to do any of the planning.

I chose this tour company for my day tour to Saint Émilion , and I couldn’t be happier!

This 5.5-hour tour covers all the highlights of St. Émilion. The tourist office in Bordeaux is your meeting place for this tour.

From there, you will get in an air-conditioned van and ride for about 40 minutes to the winery. The drill is as follows: First comes wine theory, such as harvesting and production, and then comes the practical bit, which is… drum roll, please… wine tasting.

After tasting red and white wine, you are taken to the small village of St Emilion . I can highly recommend visiting this charming village even if you are not a wine lover!

After about a 45-minute walk around the town, you meet with the group and head back to Bordeaux.

🎟️ St. Emillion Day Trip Tickets : Get your wine tasting and tour of St. Emilion Tickets here !

After a day in St. Emillion, come back to Bordeaux and have the best dinner of your trip at Restaurant Influences!

Be prepared to be amazed by the surprise menu or just order al a carte!

Luckily you can just make your reservation online, here !

e any other in Bordeaux.

Top rated organized walking tours of bordeaux.

Rather see Bordeaux with a professional guide?

Here are all the best and highest-rated tours to consider for your Bordeaux itinerary.

• Visit the La Cité du Vin Skip-the-Line Entrance Ticket & Wine Tasting
• Bordeaux: Historic Center & Chartrons District Bicycle Tour
• Private Half Day Walking Tour

Is It Safe To Travel To Bordeaux?

I found that traveling solo as a female in Bordeaux felt very safe . The region has an excellent public transportation system with buses and trams covering the whole city, so it’s easy to get around.

You can also easily walk between many of the attractions in the city center, with safe and well-lit paths. The locals are friendly and welcoming to visitors, so it’s easy to make friends during your trip.

And of course, the city is full of amazing sights that will make your stay memorable!

With all of these factors combined, you can have a stress-free and enjoyable experience as a solo female traveler in Bordeaux.

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Best way to get around solo in bordeaux.

For solo female travelers, one of the best ways to get around Bordeaux is by taking public transportation .

The city has an extensive metro system that covers most of the city and makes it easy to reach any destination.

Additionally, there’s also a reliable bus network with buses running frequently and a comprehensive tram system that allows visitors to explore the city conveniently.

Taxi services are also available and can be booked online or by phone. Uber does operate in Bordeaux .

• 📲 Download TBM Transit App for iPhone
• 📱 Download TBM Transit App for Android

Bike-share programs are offered at several locations around Bordeaux for those looking for a more active way to explore the city.

Finally, car rentals are also an option if you prefer to explore on your own terms.

Whichever way you choose, there are plenty of options available to get you around the city safely and conveniently.

How Many Days Do You Need in Bordeaux?

The number of days you need in Bordeaux really depends on the type of traveler you are. Bordeaux is a place I could spend weeks exploring and experiencing. But in general, 3 nights would suffice in most cases.

If you are active, 3 days will be plenty to see the main attractions in Bordeaux. This is primarily possible because Bordeaux is a smaller city.

Having experienced both the vivid big top destination life and the enchanting small cities around Europe, I prefer the latter.

When saying ‘small’ cities in France, do not envision isolated villages that may depress an energetic female solo traveler.

Think medium-sized, great transport links, and not too touristy. 

Seeing all of Bordeaux in just 3 days is a bit ambitious, but yo

Is Bordeaux Worth Visiting?

100% YES, Bordeaux is worth visiting ! Spending 3 days in Bordeaux, France, is a superb idea if you’re searching for a lovely city with pleasant people and world heritage sites. And if you are visiting Paris, taking the train down to Bordeaux is easy!

There is a certain charm found in Bordeaux that makes it such a visit-worthy city. You will escape so much of the congestion you find in bigger cities like Paris. Walking the streets, I felt a sense of ease, and peace, unlike other places I have visited.

Bordeaux is also more affordable than Paris , with a friendlier atmosphere. The city is very clean and less crowded than I was expecting.

Is Bordeaux a Walkable City?

Bordeaux is very walkable since it is a small city you can easily get around without ever needing public transit. I would rank it among one of the most walkable cities I have visited.

There are a lot of pedestrian-only squares in Bordeaux, which I love. The city has a well-connected public transportation system, subways, buses, and trams. Renting a car wasn’t even a thought in my mind when visiting Bordeaux for 3 days.

Bring your comfortable shoes, as the cobblestones can be hard on your feet! One of the best things to get is the Bordeaux City Pass! It will come in handy, I promise!

The Bordeaux City Pass is an excellent option for 3 days in Bordeaux. This pass includes transit within Bordeaux city for buses and trams. Also, enjoy free entry to museums, and discount tickets to excursions around Bordeaux.

I always recommend utilizing a city pass or bus tour on the first day of any trip. Getting a broad overview of the city highlights is the best way to see everything you want to see.

City Pass for 48 -72 hours costs 39 euros. It includes :

• Unlimited access to tram, bus, river shuttle
• 20 museums and monuments
• 1 guided tour
• Many discounts on cruises, wine tours, and more
• Great for day trips from Bordeaux

Solo Travel Bordeaux Top Tips

If you are traveling alone in Bordeaux here are some helpful tips!

• If you are arriving via the Bordeaux International Airport, research how you will get to the hotel. For newbies solo travelers, arrange an Airport Pickup ! It’s nice to be greeted when you land.
• Make sure to call your phone carrier and understand your options for using your mobile phone abroad! I recommend getting a European SIM card .
• Download all apps for travel , especially Google Offline Maps! Just in case you need to access them when service is low.
• Book a hotel in the center of town. I spend a little more to stay central when I am traveling alone. It always pays off!

Where to Stay for 3 Days in Bordeaux

The perfect hotel for 3 days in Bordeaux is Hotel de Tourney . This boutique hotel is located in the city center of Bordeaux.

It is within walking distance of Monument aux Girondins. My room was modern, sparkling clean, and offered free wifi.

When returning to Bordeaux, I will make sure to stay at this hotel.

For other top hotels in the area, check out these:

• Chateau Trompette
• Le Boutique Hotel
• Hotel Le Palais Gallien

Where to Visit After Bordeaux

If you want to extend your itinerary after Bordeaux, consider the Paris , Marseille , or other destinations in the south of France . The Dordogne region , also known as Périgord, is renowned for its scenic beauty, picturesque villages, and rich history.

Visiting the Dordogne region and its highlights, including Sarlat-la-Canéda and Rocamadour.

• Visit the nearby city of Toulouse
• Solo Trip Weekend in Paris Guide
• How To Go From Marseille to Cannes Guide + Map
• 3 Best Saint Emilion Wine Tours
• Is Mont Saint Michel Worth Visiting?
• Cost Guide for a Solo Trip to Paris

📲 Downloadable Map of Bordeaux

📍 Download my pre-pinned Google map of all the best locations in this post!

My favorite restaurants, bars, hotels and top sights are all saved and ready to use!

👩🏻‍💻 Need Help Planning Your Trip? Get a customized itinerary !

Stay in Touch!

Melissa Byron, a seasoned solo traveler since 2009, is the founder & visionary behind A Solo Woman Traveling. Drawing from her extensive personal experience globetrotting solo to over 40 countries, she has dedicated herself to a mission: crafting invaluable guides and itineraries for women who embark on solo adventures.

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21 Comments

I always enjoy getting a city pass if I’m not in a time crunch it’s a great way to get access to a city.

The city pass is such a great tip! Thanks for so many amazing specifics for everything. And all those food shots… must go now!

What a lovely guide! Bordeaux looks very pretty – perfect for a weekend getaway! 🙂 I’m pinning this, thanks for sharing!

What a great guide! I’ve heard some good things about Bordeaux so I’ll have to put it on my ever-growing list. Love your pics too 🙂

I’m going to France for the first time in March, and Bordeaux is on the itinerary! I’ll be traveling with my mom instead of going solo, but there are still lots of great recommendations here we can use. Saving this for my trip planning!

I have spent so much time in France and think it is very female friendly! Bordeaux is such a beautiful region!

Looks like you got to some great places. That food looks fantastic. I love visiting France and have traveled on my own there before and on girls trips, always found some great places to visit.

I loved Bordeaux. It’s such a beautiful part of France. Great recommendations.

What a lovely post! I’m from France and I’ve never even been to Bordeaux but it looks so beautiful. I might stop there for a few hours when I go home for Christmas!

I can only imagine how incredible it will be at Christmas!! Take lots of pictures!!

So many wonderful tips, Melissa! Love your photos – it looks so dreamy. Would love to try the avocado on toast at the Black List Cafe, sounds delicious 😀

Great suggestions! Good to know that a city pass is available. I think it´s a great chance to save a bit money when you visit some attractions, museums, etc. anyway! The winetasting possibilities sound also awesome!

Somehow after living in France for over 2 years I still never made it to Bordeaux! I guess I’ll just have to go back! Great article for female travelers, Melissa! xx

Bordeaux looks like a dreamy destination! Thank you for the detailed guide and the helpful map! Love your pictures!

Great post! I’d love to go back to France. I’ve only been to Paris. Krystianna @ Volumes and Voyages

Bordeaux looks so beautiful! I haven’t been yet, but will definitely visit one day 🙂

Lovely photos! Thanks for all the useful tips, I think the city pass one was especially helpful plus it’s so worthwhile with 20 museum entry included. I’m so particularly interested in the restaurant, Nama. Saving this for when I visit.

We’ve been to Paris quite a number of times but somehow haven’t had the chance yet to explore France beyond that – so that’s definitely something that’s been on our bucket list for a while. I’d love to visit Bordeaux next time around – the architecture looks stunning and those bistros look so inviting. We love exploring the countryside by bike so I wonder if there are biking tours available that can head out to those wineries.

My brother suggested I might like this blog. He was entirely right. This post truly made my day. You can not imagine simply how much time I had spent for this information! Thanks!

Very nice article, exactly what I was looking for.

So glad you found it helpful! I would love to hear how your experience was in Bordeaux! It is one of my favorite destinations!

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Solo Travel In Paris: A Romantic Guide For One

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The City of Light is supposedly the most romantic place on earth — but what if you’re enjoying some solo travel in Paris?

Traveling by yourself in this gorgeous city actually provides the perfect opportunity to see the sights on your own schedule, skip the supposedly must-do activities you don’t care about, and eat as much pain au chocolat as you can stomach — without any side-eye.

Not long ago, I went traveling solo in Paris.

Yes, there were times I wished my husband and kids were with me; but overall, I adored my solo trip to Paris. And you can, too.

Here, I’ll walk you through the mindset shift you need to take the lonely out of alone in Paris.

Then I’ll share the best things to do on your own in the City of Lights in France .

Table of Contents

Traveling Solo In Paris? Date Yourself!

First of all, check your impression that Paris is just for couples. To start, think of where you live. Is the general stereotype about your hometown accurate?

Is New York a city of angry jerks?

Is all of Singapore like Crazy Rich Asians ?

Portland, Oregon—where I live—isn’t filled only with hipsters sipping pour-overs and naked hippies riding bikes.

So it’s safe to say Paris isn’t only for lovers. Honestly, it’s one of the best places to travel alone in Europe and one of my favorite solo female travel destinations overall.

If you’re still head over heels with the idea of Paris’s romantic identity, by all means, carry on — but with a twist. Since you’re going to solo travel in Paris, date yourself .

Woo that phenomenal human you are. Take her out. Show her you appreciate her.

Parisians are actually experts at being by themselves. Just look around and you’ll see people lounging in the park, drinking a glass of wine at the café, and cycling down cobblestone streets — by themselves.

Take a page from their book and embrace exploring Paris alone as a female.

Want some inspiration for what to do? Here are my favorite things to do solo in Paris.

One of the biggest benefits of traveling solo is having ultimate freedom over your itinerary, so schedule in the recommendations that resonate most with you.

When you’re done reading, you’ll also want to know what not to do. Read my post on five ways to ruin your trip to Paris so you can avoid those common mistakes.

It’s also important to understand French culture before visiting for a smooth trip.

1. Solo Travel In Paris Must-Do: People Watch At The Eiffel Tower

No solo trip to France or European vacation would be complete without visiting the Eiffel Tower.

But, here’s the thing: a lot of travelers turn up their noses at the Eiffel Tower. It’s “such a tourist trap,” they often say — but not me. I love this iconic Paris landmark but not for the reasons you might think.

The tower itself is fine. Yes, it’s one of the most recognizable pieces of architecture on the planet, but there’s something even better in the parks around la tour :

People-watching.

Because just about everyone who visits Paris goes to the Eiffel Tower, it’s the spot to observe the beautiful diversity of humans.

Keep this advice in mind: “A Parisienne always has a good reason to be sitting on a bench.” – How To Be Parisian

To make the most of your people-watching, I recommend picking a spot, getting still, and observing.

When you’re not distracted by your phone or your plans to get to the next destination, you’ll see so much more. A teenage couple falling over when they try to take a selfie. Crowds of schoolkids paying equal attention to the tower and the park’s resident pigeons.

You might even witness someone opening up a secret compartment in a street lamp and stashing a bottle of Champagne, like I did. Seriously!

My point is, don’t miss this rare opportunity to stay as long as you want in a place many travelers consider to be overrated.

As a solo traveler, you get to decide how fast — or slow — you see the city.

2. Visit The Best Place To Watch The Sunset In Paris

Candlelit dinner, wine, and a sunset—this is A+ romance material. That means it’s perfect for you as a solo traveler in Paris.

The best place to watch the sunset over the Paris skyline:

Brasserie Georges, the rooftop restaurant atop the Centre Pompidou.

Arrive 30-45 minutes before sunset so you can enjoy the changing colors as well as the twinkling nighttime vista.

The brasserie generally requires reservations, but a one-top is easy to squeeze in. Hey, it’s yet another benefit of doing solo travel in Paris!

Order an appetizer and a half-bottle of wine from their excellent menu. If you’re not sure what to order, servers here are super-helpful and speak great English.

When I went, I nearly cried — not because I was lonely, but because I couldn’t believe my luck. I was traveling Paris on my own terms, watching the sky turn sherbet-pink behind the Eiffel Tower, sipping a Bordeaux.

The moment was perfect, and I’ll never forget it.

By the way: you don’t have to buy admission to the Pompidou, which houses one of Europe’s largest collections of modern art. An elevator will take you straight to the top floor to get to Brasserie Georges.

If you have extra time, though, make a point of seeing the museum’s famous works by Marcel Duchamp, Andy Warhol, Mark Rothko, and Jackson Pollock.

3. Test Your Mettle At The Catacombs

Traveling to Paris alone as a female gives you countless ways to improve your mindset and bust through limiting beliefs. Why not use your solo trip to prove to yourself just how brave you are?

The Catacombs are undoubtedly creepy — and totally fascinating.

The Catacombs are an ossuary — as in, a place to arrange and bury bones — under the streets of Paris. Here, the remains of six million people are held in the tunnels, which were originally dug as limestone quarries.

Part of these ossuaries are open to the public. In fact, about 300,000 people visit this historic site each year — which means you should buy tickets in advance or risk waiting up to several hours in line.

The mile-long underground tour leads past bones and skulls stacked in intricate formations.

Click here to snag special access tickets to this Paris attraction.

4. Scooter Around Paris

You can barely go a block without coming across one of the roughly 10 brands of electronic public scooters in Paris.

It’s easy to roll your eyes at them — and the irresponsible people who almost knock over pedestrians — but they’re really fun .

So brush up on the rules around electronic scooters, follow proper etiquette, and take one for a spin! I can tell you from firsthand experience that riding one over the cobblestone streets of Paris is absolutely hilarious.

Pro tip: download one (or more) of the scooter apps before leaving your lodging so you can use WiFi instead of data when you’re out and about.

Additionally, you can opt for a treasure hunt along the Seine by scooter — definitely a unique Paris sightseeing opportunity!

5. Picnic At Luxembourg Gardens

Unless the weather is absolute garbage, you can pretty much always find people lounging outside in the Luxembourg Gardens, and it should definitely on your itinerary when enjoying solo female travel in Paris.

This beautiful, manicured park is popular with both Parisians and visitors — and for good reason. Its wide-open lawns simply beg to be lounged on.

If sitting on the ground isn’t your thing, little tables and chairs dot the park.

Buy a baguette and cheese or a ready-made meal from one of the city’s upscale grocery stores, or simply bring a bag full of pastries.

Then spread out and enjoy a solo picnic in one of Paris’s most picturesque spots.

Visiting Paris in winter ?

You can get your nature fix and keep warm in the Jardin des Plantes greenhouse!

6. Admire Stained Glass At Sainte Chapelle

I, like the rest of the traveling community, was heartbroken when I heard of the fire that damaged the Notre Dame Cathedral. It had been one of my favorite places when I traveled solo in Paris.

Although you can’t go in now — the restoration effort is massive, and it won’t reopen until 2024 at the earliest — you can visit another example of stunning architecture and beautiful stained glass just a few blocks away.

Sainte Chapelle is lesser-known than Notre Dame and attracts fewer visitors by far. But its dramatic stained glass will take your breath away.

I spent part of my final day in Paris sitting and staring, speechless, at the 15-meter-high windows.

The crick in your neck you might get from looking up at these masterpieces won’t last long, but you’ll never forget their beauty.

7. Enjoy Art In Paris—At Your Pace

Paris is simply full of world-class museums.

The Louvre alone welcomes nearly 10 million visitors each year. But with all those masterpieces in one city, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.

The good news:

As a solo traveler in Paris, you don’t feel any pressure to check all these museums off someone else’s bucket list. Instead, pick one museum and wander it slowly.

Rather than locating the “must-see” works of art on the museum map and making a bee-line between them, explore without an itinerary.

Enjoying art at a leisurely pace lets you appreciate the pieces on the wall as well as all the visitors there. When you don’t have an agenda, you won’t be stressed about the crowds around the Mona Lisa or Van Gough’s self-portraits.

When it comes to seeing art in Paris, quality of time definitely trumps quantity of museums visited.

8. Dine Solo In Paris

One of the benefits of eating out on your own:

Parisians are used to solo diners so would never look twice at you enjoying your meal and a glass of wine.

Plus, Paris has some of the most delicious food in the world. Tasting your way through the city by yourself means you don’t have to compromise with anyone else when deciding where to go — because it’s never easy to narrow down where to eat.

On the other side of the coin, you’re free to eat at the same brasserie three nights in a row or indulge in a few French croissants if that’s what makes you happy.

Either way, do as the French do and thoroughly enjoy every single bite.

9. When Looking For Fun Things To Do In Paris At Night Alone, Cruise The Seine

I’ve already made my feelings about the Eiffel Tower clear — love it. But there’s a way to make a good thing even better:

Seeing the tower’s light show from the River Seine.

Many companies run nighttime tours on the Seine, and you can find people handing out coupons to them around tourist destinations. Additionally, you can click here to purchase a ticket in advance .

No matter which company you choose, this is one tourist activity you don’t want to miss, as it’s the perfect option when looking for memorable things to do in Paris solo at night. Though, remember that you’re not really alone, as there are other cruise-goers to mingle with if you so please.

You’ll cruise under the iconic bridges over the river, learn about the city’s history and architecture, then arrive alongside the Eiffel Tower just as it bursts into light.

The sight of the sparkling tower is absolutely magical.

If you do just one stereotypical tourist thing, make it a nighttime cruise on the Seine.

10. Leave Your Mark With Graffiti

If you’re like me, you check out the street art scene in every city you visit.

And even if much of Paris is filled with centuries-old architecture — definitely not a wall I’d want to be turned into a mural — the city does have some noteworthy street art. In fact, you can even book a street tour !

That being said, in Paris, I did something I’ve never done anywhere else:

I created graffiti on my own.

Whether you go rogue and do it yourself, or join one of a few entrepreneurial artists who will help you wield a can of spray paint thro ugh a local graffiti workshop , painting graffiti is a one-of-a-kind experience.

The wall where I painted is considered fair game for any would-be street artist.

And if it turns out to be a spray paint-y mess, your painting is far from permanent. The open-air gallery is constantly changing as other people paint over previous murals.

By the way, if you want to know all the details I wrote about how to paint your own graffiti in Paris over on my site, including a map pinpointing a public graffiti wall.

11. Wander & Get Lost On Your Solo Trip To Paris

Your Paris Pinterest board is probably packed with things to do, places to eat, and landmarks to visit.

But one of the best, most memorable things to do in Paris alone or with a travel companion is to wander aimlessly. You never know what you’ll come across.

You might stumble across the perfect boulangerie , a glass-topped covered walkway, two grandpas playing chess or, as I did, a quaint antique store selling the most adorable dainty teacups.

Yes, you might have researched each of these spots and followed an efficient path from A to B, ticking off each one. But nothing compares to the delight of discovering something wonderful all on your own.

How To Explore When Visiting Paris Alone

If you had any doubts about visiting Paris as a solo traveler, I’m pretty sure you’re now sold.

You now know that visiting one of the world’s most romantic cities by yourself is actually an excellent way to go. When you travel solo, you see a place on your own terms:

You get to spend hours in the same place or skip supposedly must-see attractions that just don’t spark your interest.

For those of you who love a good list of things to do in Paris, I hope you have a few more items to add. After all, I loved each of these recommendations as a solo traveler. I’m pretty sure you will, too.

So when you head to Paris, do me a favor:

Blow it a bisou and say bonjour to one of my favorite cities!

Where To Stay In Paris

To help make choosing a place to stay on your solo trip to Paris easier, here is a widget from Expedia that allows you to do research without leaving this post:

A few popular neighborhoods to stay in Paris include Marais — which is very trendy; the 1st Arrondisement — which is excellent if you’re doing a lot of sightseeing; and the 11th Arrondisement — which is a foodie paradise.

That being said, this neighborhood list is by no means exhaustive, as there are many excellent areas to stay in Paris.

Fais bon voyage! (Have a great trip!)

Solo Travel Tips [Video]

New to solo travel ? Want to know how to travel solo successfully ?

I made so many mistakes when planning my first trip solo — like booking out every second of my itinerary so that I had no room for adventure.

That’s not what I want for you.

To help you plan a meaningful and memorable trip, I’m sharing my top tips for planning the perfect solo trip — with confidence!

Bonus Paris Travel Resources

How Not To Get Treated Rudely By The French

Budget-Friendly Paris Travel Tips For Having A Blast On The Cheap

6 Amazing Apps For Cultural Immersion In Paris, France

Taking In The Best View In Paris At The Sacre Coeur

The Ultimate Guide To Solo Travel In France

Do you have additional tips for enjoying solo travel in Paris?

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About Catherine Ryan Gregory

Catherine Ryan Gregory helps time-strapped parents plan family vacations that are fun for everyone. She shares family travel hacks and kid-friendly destination recommendations at ToAndFroFam.com . When she’s not exploring the globe, she lives with her husband, two kids, and a dog outside Portland, Oregon.

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Thanks for this article! Will follow these tips when I had a chance to visit Paris.

I absolutely loved reading this guide on solo travel in Paris! Thank you for sharing your mindset shift and providing great recommendations for solo activities in the City of Lights. I’m feeling inspired and ready to embark on my own solo adventure in Paris!

Highly appreciated such a amazing details article. I have visited my self Paris on 2017. I have great experience. Highly recommend people to look the article and you can follow this instruction. Great!

Traveling alone in Paris is not too dangerous, but as in any other city in the world, you still need to be careful and well prepared.

I was in Paris 2 months ago as a solo traveller.However I didnt feel safe near main landmarks.Because to much hassle

Wow, thank you so much for sharing the informative article this article is really helpful article

Catherine, you’ve written this guide so well! I like how you stress that single tourists may also have an amazing time in Paris; it’s not simply a destination for couples. I really connected with the concept of “dating yourself” and adopting the Parisian approach to spending time alone. Your advice on being fully present in the moment and people-watching at the Eiffel Tower is really motivating. I appreciate you giving this new insight!

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Lyon Solo Travel Guide

Planning a solo trip to Lyon ? Here’s everything you need to know for your visit:

QUICK FACTS

• Third largest city in France, with a population of around 1.7 million (metro area).
• Renowned for gastronomy and silk , Lyon is also where the Lumiere brothers developed the photographic equipment that gave birth to the first projector cinema.
• Nickname: Capital of Gaul

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

• Currency:  Euro  (EUR).
• Spoken languages:   French .
• Best time to visit: from  April  to  September  (summer season, with a humid subtropical climate). Expect average temperatures of 25 C (77 F).
• Arriving via airport:  Saint-Exupéry Airport (LYS) connects to the city centre with Rhônexpress for €13 one-way. Taxis charge €40-50.

WHERE TO STAY

• Best Lyon hostel for solo travelers: SLO Living Hostel . Just 1km from Place Bellecour, this is a centrally-located hostel with clean rooms, comfortable beds, and friendly staff. Great hangout area for meeting other travelers. Plenty of storage for guests. Great breakfast available (cheap). Book ahead!
• Young and fashionable La Croix-Rousse used to be home to silk weavers, and is the now the ideal base for interesting squares, winding streets, and bistros.
• Bellecour is the city’s elegant quarter, with high-end restaurants and retail businesses, while Perrache is the new business and commercial district.

GETTING AROUND

• TCL runs all public transport in the city, from buses, trams, and subway to the funiculars. A single ticket costs €1.90, and allows for unlimited travel across all platforms for 1 hour from validation (verified by inspection). Bundles of 10 rides can be purchased for €18. The 72-hour pass is especially popular with visitors (only €16.50). See the TCL website for more information.
• Taxis are quite expensive in Lyon, with a minimum fare of €6.60 or a standard €2 for rental plus €1.48/km if returning to the rank empty or €0.74 if with passenger. Supplements for baggage, animals and bulky equipment range from an extra €1-€1.54 per ride. Call 0687 974 790 for pick up.
• Instead of taxis, try using Uber for faster pick up and lower rates.
• Vélo’v operates a public bicycle service, with more than 340 stations for easy pick-up and drop-off. The bikes are available 24/7, every day of the year and can be used on a subscription method. First 30 minutes are free, while a day ticket costs €1.50.

LYON NIGHTLIFE

• Drinking age is 18 ,   and last call is in the early hours of the morning after.
• Hip/local scene: Presqu’île is excellent for dining and clubbing together with the locals,
• University scene: the Vieux Lyon area is popular among Erasmus exchange students, who head to the pubs for cheap draft beer and the English speaking crowd.
• The best area for casual bars and wine lounges is found along the Rhône , aboard riverboats serving as nightclubs.
• Great bars in Lyon to stop for a drink: Les Fleurs du Malt le Bar and Les BerThoM .
• Want to go clubbing ? For the young crowd (EDM): Le Petit Salon. Live music? Transbordeur .

UNIQUE LANDMARKS TO VISIT

• Lyon is as beautiful during the day as it is at night, with lights illuminating the cobbled streets and the famous monuments across town. Vieux Lyon is the heart of the Renaissance area, and affords a tour of historic buildings and artisan workshops.
• Traboules are passages and served as tunnels in the resistance against German invasion during World War II. 
• Lyon Cathedral in St. Jean is a World Heritage Site that serves as the seat of the Lyon Archbishop. Stop to admire the 14 th century clock and the stained glass windows.
• Take the funicular up to Fourvière Hill , the seat of the ancient Roman settlement and home to the Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière . The views across Lyon are unrivaled from this vantage point.
• Parc de la Tête d’Or is the perfect way to spend an afternoon amid botanic gardens in view of a lake, and to visit the wild animals housed in the zoo.
• Monet, Matisse and Picasso works are all on exhibit at the Musée des Beaux-Arts . The museum rises over a former Benedictine convent, and is the pride of the city for its collection of fine arts.
• Lyon photography tips! Here are some great spots to take sweeping panoramic pictures of the city: – The classic shot from Basilique de Fourvière – Continuing from Fourvière, follow the Chemin du Viaduc to the cemetery ( Cimetière de Loyasse ). Great views here. – Go to the Jardins des Chartreux for a great view of Fourvière – View from the top of Jardin de la Grand Côte – View from beside the Gros Caillou

INTERESTING WALKS

• Follow the footpath along the banks of the Saône until Île Barbe , the island once home to a 5 th century monastery, for a welcome respite from the crowds.
• Boulevard de la Croix-Rousse hosts an open-air market for farmers to sell their homegrown, organic produce; in the winter this becomes a dazzling array of Christmas bazaar stalls. The neighborhood is known as the “hill that works” due to the Italian immigrants who flocked to the area and breathed life into the silk industry.
• Place Bellecour is a popular square hosting a year-round ferris wheel and an ice rink in the winter. From here, head to Rue de la Republique and stop to relax at a café.
• Tired and need to rest your legs? Why not stop for a tea or coffee at the nearest La Route des Arômes (very popular with locals).

LOCAL WISDOM

• Try to learn a few basic phrases  in French before arriving. While the locals are becoming increasingly used to foreign tourists, they appreciate those who make an effort.
• The Lyon City Card serves as a day pass to 18 participating museums, a river cruise along the Saône, tours of silk workshops and unlimited access to public transportation. The 24 hour pass retails at €21, €31 for 48 hours and €41 for 72 hours. It can be ordered online prior to arrival.
• On the 8 th of December of each year, Lyon celebrates the Fête des lumières (Festival of Lights), an event witnessed by over 4 million tourists and whose tradition began in honor of the Immaculate Conception.
• Lyon’s reputation for gastronomic heights is well justified: there are over  1,800  places to eat out around the city. from Michelin-starred restaurants to traditional  bouchons  specializing in Lyonnaise cuisine.
• Great restaurants in Lyon that locals love: Daniel et Denise ($$ – three locations), Brasserie Georges ($$), Le Café Des Fédérations ($$), Le Saint-Vincent ($$ – nice terrace), Le Bœuf d’Argent ($$$), Le ch’ti Pot Ney ($$), Bistrot de la Botte ($$ – Italian with great wine selection).
• Where to find good cheap food : take this chance to savour the local cuisine that put the city on the map (Lyon is known as the “gastronomy capital” of France, after all! Traditional ingredients used in cooking include tripe, black pudding, offal sausage, and pig’s brain, to name a few. Head to Rue des Marronniers for cheap but satisfying menus. Finish the meal with tarte aux praline , another local legend.
• Dangerous areas: avoid Vieux Lyon (Old Lyon) and the suburbs at night.

Recommended trip duration:  2-3 days

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15 destinations incontournables où partir seule en France

Où partir en vacances, en france quand on est seule et que l'on veut se ressourcer , où partir pour un séjour solo en france pour se reposer , où partir seule en france pour un week-end solo , où voyager seule en france pour un séjour sportif .

Que ce soit pour une escapade de quelques jours ou pour un séjour plus long, c'est une excellente idée de partir seule en France. Quelle que soit votre destination, vous pourrez profiter des paysages à couper le souffle, de la culture riche et variée et des différentes activités proposées. Voici une liste des 15 destinations incontournables où partir seule en France.

Si vous cherchez à vous ressourcer et à prendre un peu de temps pour vous, la France est un endroit parfait pour partir seule en vacances. Que vous recherchiez une destination balnéaire, de montagne ou de campagne, vous trouverez une variété de lieux pour vous ressourcer et vous recentrer sur l'essentiel. Voici nos 5 coups de cœur :

L'Île de Ré

L'Île de Ré est l'une des destinations françaises préférées des amoureux de la nature. Elle est située au cœur du Parc Naturel Marin de l'estuaire de la Gironde et de la mer des Pertuis. La nature et ses nombreuses espèces animales y sont préservées. La tendance est aux activités de plein air. Entre les bains iodés, les balades à vélo sur ses 110 kilomètres de pistes cyclables et les balades à pied sur ses belles plages, la région recèle de nombreux espaces contemplatifs. L'Île de Ré est la destination parfaite pour se vider la tête, faire le plein d'énergie et s'imprégner de l'ambiance paisible des villages de pêcheurs. Visiter l'Île de Ré, c'est l'adopter. Et puis, quoi de mieux que de couper avec son quotidien face à un coucher de soleil tout en dégustant les bonnes huîtres de l'île dans l'une des cabanes ostréicoles de la côte.

Pour les amateurs de nature, le Queyras est une destination idéale pour partir en séjour seule en France. Situé dans les Hautes-Alpes, le Queyras est une vallée sauvage et préservée offrant des paysages spectaculaires. Avec ses montagnes aux sommets enneigés et ses rivières vives, le Queyras est un endroit idéal pour les randonnées, les sports d'hiver et le camping. Le Parc naturel régional du Queyras est un terrain de jeu enivrant à qui souhaite s'y aventurer, sac sur le dos. D'ailleurs, son territoire est reconnu au patrimoine mondial de l'UNESCO et certains de ses villages pittoresques comme Saint-Véran sont classés parmi les plus beaux villages de France. Grâce à ses lacs, ses rivières, ses forêts et ses montagnes, le Queyras est l'endroit idéal pour se ressourcer en pleine nature, dans un décor somptueux et préservé. Une bonne dose de vert et c'est reparti !

Le Lubéron et son Colorado provençal

Situé dans le Sud de la France, le Lubéron offre aux voyageurs solitaires des paysages à couper le souffle. Connu pour son Colorado Provençal, ce paysage coloré est le théâtre idéal pour un voyage en solo. Vous pourrez y découvrir des villes médiévales, des champs d'oliviers et des routes sinueuses bordées de lavande. Le Lubéron est un dépaysement pour les yeux, mais également pour les papilles. Rien de tel qu'un repas au soleil au cœur d'un petit village pittoresque qui sent bon la lavande pour se laisser transporter. C'est bien connu, le soleil est un excellent remède pour parer à une grosse fatigue et reprendre des forces. Merci le climat méditerranéen ! Et comme Le Queyras, Le Lubéron est un Parc naturel régional préservé du tourisme de masse. Les activités bien-être sont nombreuses pour se ressourcer au rythme de la vie locale. En parlant de vie locale, nous avons déniché pour vous un petit cabanon tout en pierre très dépaysant. Découvrez Le cabanon d'Ingrid .

La Camargue

Et encore une région naturelle d'exception ! La Camargue est un lieu idéal pour des vacances en France apaisantes. Située entre les Bouches-du-Rhône et le Gard, cette région sauvage à l’atmosphère unique est un paradis pour les amateurs de nature et de bord de mer. De nombreuses activités y sont proposées : randonnées et promenades à cheval, observation des flamants roses, découverte des marais méditerranéens et des villages authentiques. C'est un lieu incontournable, à la fois libre et sauvage, réputé pour ses traditions et son authenticité. Je ne sais pas vous, mais moi, une balade à cheval au cœur des marais camarguais peut me donner envie de changer de vie sur un simple coup de tête ! C'est fou comme 150 000 hectares de nature sauvage peuvent faire tourner la tête ! Voici quelque incontournables pour se ressourcer en toute beauté : les marais du Vigueirat, le parc ornithologique du Pont de Gau, le domaine de la Palissade et les salins d'Aigues-Mortes. Côté hébergement, gros coup de cœur pour les hébergements de Rêves d'Ô etde Lodges de Camargue .

Le Berry est une région idéale pour vivre des moments en toute simplicité et se ressourcer au cœur d'un paysage aux nombreux sites historiques. Châteaux et forteresses font partie du paysage ! La région est située à seulement deux heures de Paris, ce qui en fait un haut lieu de campagne pour venir s'y ressourcer. Bien loin du métro, boulot, dodo parisien ou d'ailleurs, Le Berry offre un espace de déconnexion aux antipodes de son train-train quotidien et à l'inverse, un espace de reconnexion avec la nature et les choses simples de la vie. Une semaine de voyage en solo dans le Berry, ce n'est pas de trop, bien au contraire. Ce havre de paix au centre de la France, bien loin des grandes villes, est propice aux nouvelles rencontres pures et sans artifice. Si vous faites partie de celles qui ont du mal à décrocher avec le travail et leur téléphone, lisez bien attentivement l'article de Lucie du blog voyages et vagabondages qui a réussi à décrocher avec le monde extérieur grâce à son voyage en solo dans Le Berry.

Nuance, se ressourcer, ce n'est pas forcément se reposer ! Vous sentez que vous avez besoin de repos, bien plus que de vous ressourcer à l'occasion d'une randonnée dans Le Queyras. Nous avons ce qu'il vous faut pour vous aider à recharger les batteries. Cap sur 4 destinations de tout repos, bien loin du monde extérieur.

Vous rêvez de nature, du chant des oiseaux au réveil, du murmure des vagues, de grands espaces, ainsi que d'odeurs de pins et d'iode pour vous reposer. Le Sud-ouest est la destination qu'il vous faut. À la fois reposant et enivrant, ce bout de paradis en France à un petit goût de reviens-y. Ici, on y trouve ce qu'on vient y chercher, à la condition de s'y rendre à la bonne saison. Si l'objectif est de vous reposer, un conseil, allez-y hors saison pour profiter pleinement du calme et des grands espaces vierges. Et puis, vous trouverez facilement des hébergements au calme dans l'environnement qui vous convient le mieux. Voici quelques endroits où il fait bon se reposer :

• au bord de l'océan, rendez-vous avec la côte sauvage du côté d'Hossegor et de Seignosse. Hors saison, vous trouverez facilement sur airbnb des logements avec vue sur l'océan ou de charme au cœur de la nature comme la Villa de l'étang blanc .
• au bord des lacs, regardez autour du lac d'Hossegor, le cadre y est reposant et la vue splendide. Mention spéciale pour la cabane au bord de l'eau du Coco Barn, à proximité d'Hossegor. D'autres lacs valent également le détour et vous donneront envie de poser les valises quelques jours pour vous déconnecter : Biscarosse, Aurheilan et Soustons.
• au milieu des pins, direction le Cap Ferret et le bassin d'Arcachon pour apprécier la tranquillité des lieux et la beauté du cadre. Il existe de nombreuses cabanes cachées au beau milieu des pins pour prendre de la distance avec votre vie de tous les jours et vous reposer. Vous pouvez également regarder pour louer une petite cabane de pêcheur au cœur des villages ostréicoles et profiter du calme des lieux.

La Corse est une destination à la fois dépaysante et hypnotique. Nul besoin d'y aller hors saison pour dénicher des endroits au calme. Partez dans les terres et profitez de vous isoler dans l'arrière-pays corse. Bien que méfiants au premier abord, les Corses sont d'une grande générosité et ont le sens de l'accueil. Vous y trouverez des endroits de toute beauté pour profiter de quelques jours au calme, toute seule en Corse ou accompagnée. La Castagniccia est la destination parfaite. Il existe de nombreux petits hôtels de village avec des vues incroyables comme Le refuge d'Orezza et des bergeries de montagne pour un séjour loin de tout.

L'Ariège

Vous rêvez d'une bonne cure de nature et de calme ? L'Ariège est l'une des autres destinations phares pour des vacances repos, en solo. La nature est reine et elle invite à la méditation et à la contemplation. De nombreux petits villages pittoresques bordent les rivières et culminent sur les sommets. Voici quelques-uns des lieux incontournables où vous pourriez trouver un pied-à-terre pour vous reposer seule : Arrien-en-Bethmale, Saleix, Ax-les-Thermes, Mirepoix ou encore Carla-Bayle. De nombreux gîtes à la ferme ont vu le jour ces dernières années, l'occasion de séjourner dans un lieu paisible, au contact des animaux.

L'Ardèche

Au cœur d'une nature luxuriante et grandiose avec ses Gorges, l'Ardèche est l'étape incontournable à qui souhaite prendre du temps pour soi et se reposer. Plusieurs options s'offrent à vous :

• la retraite individuelle pour cheminer dans vos retrouvailles avec vous-même. Découvrez le concept La Source de Solange. Vous pouvez également trouver des espaces dédiés à une retraite yoga pour vous aider à revenir à l'essentiel et à vous libérer d'une fatigue omniprésente.
• les bergeries dans la montagne ardéchoise comme La bergerie du Plateau

Ce ne sont que quelques exemples. Évidemment, il existe de nombreux autres lieux en Ardèche au bord des rivières pour flâner quelques jours et ne penser à rien !

Marseille est la destination soleil idéale pour un voyage en solo en France. Connue pour son climat méditerranéen et ses paysages spectaculaires, Marseille offre une multitude d'activités, de divertissements et de merveilles à découvrir. Que ce soit pour un week-end ou une semaine entière, Marseille est la destination parfaite pour une escapade en solo sur la côte d'Azur. Parmi les nombreuses choses à faire ou à voir, le Vieux-Port, le quartier Le Panier, la Basilique Notre Dame de La Garde et les fameuses calanques !

Strasbourg est une destination de premier choix pour un week-end seule au moment des fêtes de fin d'année. La capitale de l'Alsace offre un spectacle incroyable pour les fêtes de Noël avec son marché réputé et ses ruelles éclairées. Vous pouvez aussi passer un week-end en solo à Strasbourg en plein été. Les températures sont plus chaudes et la balade en bateau à la découverte des trésors historiques et patrimoniaux, plus agréable. Et puis, s'il vous reste encore un peu de temps dans votre week-end, visitez les alentours de Strasbourg, les villages sont somptueux et la Forêt noire, hypnotique.

De la visite des monuments historiques et des musées à la flânerie dans les rues et les parcs, il y a une variété infinie de possibilités pour celles qui veulent s'aventurer seules à Paris. Pas sûre que vous ayez assez d'un week-end pour visiter la capitale et tous ses quartiers. Si vous devez mettre l'accent sur certains lieux plutôt que d'autres, voici notre sélection :

• prendre de la hauteur à la Tour Eiffel et observer le Champ-de-Mars
• remonter les Champs-Elysées jusqu'à l'Arc de Triomphe
• grimper les marches jusqu'à Montmartre et déambuler dans les ruelles de ce petit village dans Paris
• manger une crêpe au jardin des Tuileries face au musée du Louvre
• boire un café à Saint-Michel face à la Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris
• déambuler dans le quartier du Marais

Chamonix, située en Haute-Savoie, est une des destinations préférées des voyageurs solos en quête d'émotions sportives. Avec ses paysages à couper le souffle et ses activités variées, ce charmant village de montagne est une destination idéale pour les personnes qui recherchent de l'aventure. Il faut dire que les activités ne manquent pas. En été, vous pouvez découvrir la région au sol, par le biais de la randonnée en montagne et en l'air, grâce au parapente au-dessus des sommets. En hiver, rien de tel qu'une balade en raquette ou en chiens de traîneau, une descente à ski, une initiation au Ski Joëring ou encore une balade à cheval au beau milieu des paysages enneigés.

A Biarritz, ville côtière du Pays basque, la voyageuse solo que vous êtes optera à coup sûr, pour des activités plus salées telles que le surf et le sauvetage côtier. Des stages sont organisés entre mai et octobre, lorsque les températures sont plus douces et l'eau plus chaude. Le Pays basque est également connu pour ses nombreux sommets et ses chemins de randonnée. Vous pouvez tout à fait partir aux aurores le matin en randonnée et prendre un cours de surf sur la Côte ouest l'après-midi. Le terrain de jeu est immense. Vous pouvez également faire du kayak, du paddle, du jet-ski, de la planche à voile, du parapente ou encore du rafting.

Les Gorges du Verdon

Il existe des endroits comme celui-là où nous avons l'impression d'être seule au monde tant l'espace de liberté est immense. Partir seule en France n'a jamais été aussi simple qu'en ce lieu de pratique sportive où toutes les activités sont encadrées par des professionnels du métier et des passionnés de nature. Parmi les activités sportives phares de la région, le canyoning, le trekking, le rafting, le canoë-kayak, la Via Ferrata, le parapente et l'escalade. La région des Gorges du Verdon est l'endroit idéal pour une personne qui voyage seule et qui désire orienter ses vacances autour du sport. Il y a vraiment de quoi faire !

Fini d'être chauvin, chez Copines de voyage, on doit aussi vous avouer qu'il existe de nombreux autres endroits incroyables juste à côté de la maison où vous pourrez passer vos prochaines vacances en solo et en Europe évidemment.

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