How to Use the Paris Metro: Dos, Don’ts & Tips for Tourists

Posted on March 14, 2026March 14, 2026 by Mark Wolters

The Paris Metro Guide for Tourists (Dos, Don’ts & Helpful Tips)

When travelers first arrive in Paris, one of the biggest questions they have is how to get around the city. Should they take taxis? Use rideshare apps? Walk everywhere?

The reality is that the Paris Metro is the easiest and best way to get around the city. Traffic in Paris can be heavy, taxis can get expensive quickly, and many of the city’s famous sights are spread out. The metro connects them all quickly and efficiently.

If you’re visiting Paris, the metro will almost certainly be part of your trip. The good news is that it’s relatively easy to use once you understand a few basics. However, there are also a few dos and don’ts that every traveler should know.

This guide will walk you through how the Paris Metro works, how to avoid common mistakes, and how to travel safely and confidently while exploring the city.

Don’t Be Afraid of the Paris Metro

One of the biggest mistakes tourists make is avoiding the metro because they think it’s confusing or intimidating.

The truth is that the Paris Metro is one of the most extensive and useful subway systems in the world. It has dozens of lines and hundreds of stations, which means that wherever you are in Paris, you are probably only a few minutes away from a metro stop.

Most of the city’s famous attractions are located close to metro stations, including:

The Louvre
The Eiffel Tower
Notre-Dame
The Arc de Triomphe
Montmartre
Musée d’Orsay

Because the network is so extensive, you’re rarely more than a few hundred meters away from a station. Once you get comfortable with it, you’ll find that it’s the fastest way to explore the city.

Understanding Metro Directions

One thing that sometimes confuses visitors is how directions are labeled in the metro.

Instead of saying “northbound” or “southbound,” Paris metro trains are labeled by their final stop on the line.

For example, if you’re looking at Line 1, the signs will show the last station on that line. To make sure you’re going the correct direction, you need to check the final stop listed on the train platform signs.

Most stations also have maps that show every stop along the line, which helps you confirm that your destination is along that route.

A helpful tip is to count the number of stops between your station and your destination. This way, you’ll know when your stop is approaching even if the announcements are difficult to hear or understand.

Buying Metro Tickets and Navigo Cards

There are a few ways to pay for metro rides in Paris, but most visitors will use one of two options.

Navigo Card

One of the most convenient options is the Navigo Easy card.

This is a reusable card that costs about €2 to purchase. Once you have the card, you can load it with individual rides or bundles of tickets.

The advantage of the Navigo card is that you can recharge it easily at ticket machines throughout the metro system. If you plan to return to Paris in the future, you can even keep the card and use it again on your next trip.

Paper Tickets

You can also purchase traditional paper tickets at metro stations. However, these are slowly being phased out, and they are easier to lose.

If you use paper tickets, be sure to keep your ticket after entering the station. Occasionally inspectors check tickets, and if you can’t show yours, you could receive a fine.

Using Ticket Machines

Ticket machines are available in every metro station. They typically offer multiple languages, including English, so you don’t need to speak French to buy tickets.

There are usually two types of machines:

Touchscreen machines
Older machines with rotating selection wheels

The touchscreen machines tend to be easier to use, although they can sometimes be a bit temperamental.

If you have trouble, you can always visit the ticket service window, where an attendant can help you purchase tickets or recharge your Navigo card.

Watch Out for Pickpockets

Like many major cities, Paris has pickpockets who sometimes operate in busy areas of the metro.

Common places where pickpocketing can occur include:

Ticket gates
Crowded platforms
Boarding or exiting trains

Be especially aware of your belongings when passing through ticket barriers or when the train doors are opening and closing.

A few simple precautions can help reduce the risk:

Keep bags zipped
Carry backpacks in front of you
Avoid placing wallets in back pockets
Stay aware of your surroundings

Most travelers will never experience any problems, but it’s always good to stay alert.

Important French Words to Know

There are two French words that are especially useful when navigating the metro.

Sortie

“Sortie” means exit. When you see signs pointing to “Sortie,” they are directing you to the station exits.

Plan du Quartier

Many stations also display neighborhood maps near the exits. These maps help you determine which exit is closest to your destination.

Choosing the correct exit can save you a lot of walking once you reach street level.

Not Every Station Has Elevators

One thing travelers should know is that many Paris metro stations are quite old.

As a result, not every station has elevators or escalators. Some stations require climbing long staircases to reach the street.

If you have limited mobility or heavy luggage, it’s worth checking your station ahead of time to see what kind of access it offers.

Opening the Train Doors

On some metro trains, the doors do not open automatically.

Instead, you may need to lift a small handle or press a button to open the door when the train stops at a station.

If you’re unsure how to open the door, just watch the passengers around you. Someone will usually show you what to do.

Metro Etiquette: Let People Exit First

One of the most important unwritten rules of the metro is simple:

Let passengers exit the train before you board.

Standing directly in front of the doors makes it difficult for people to leave the train and slows down the boarding process.

Step aside, let passengers exit, and then board once the doorway clears.

Move Away from the Doors

Another common mistake is standing right next to the train doors after boarding.

Instead, move further into the train so more passengers can board. This helps keep things moving smoothly during busy travel times.

Take Off Your Backpack

If you’re wearing a backpack on a crowded metro train, it’s polite to remove it and hold it in front of you.

This helps prevent accidentally bumping other passengers and also protects your belongings from potential pickpockets.

Avoid Large Suitcases on the Metro

The Paris Metro can get crowded, especially during rush hour.

Because of this, it’s not always ideal for travelers with large suitcases. If you’re heading to the airport, you’ll likely want to take the RER train instead of the metro.

The RER trains have more space for luggage and connect the city to major airports like Charles de Gaulle.

Pay Attention to Your Phone

Another safety tip involves using your phone near the train doors.

Sometimes thieves will grab a phone just as the train doors close and run off the platform.

To avoid this, try not to stand near the doors using your phone when the train is stopped at a station.

Busy Stations to Watch

Some metro stations are larger and busier than others. Stations connected to major train hubs tend to have the most crowds.

Stations like Gare du Nord and Gare de Lyon can be particularly busy, so it’s worth paying extra attention to your belongings when traveling through them.

Trains Run Frequently

One of the nice things about the Paris Metro is how frequently trains run.

In most cases, trains arrive every few minutes. Many stations even display countdown timers showing how long until the next train arrives.

If the train that arrives is extremely crowded, it’s often worth waiting a few minutes for the next one.

Quiet Metro Culture

If you’re used to subways in cities like New York, you may notice something different about the Paris Metro.

It’s generally quieter.

Passengers tend to keep to themselves, listening to music, reading, or simply relaxing during their ride. It’s not a very social environment, and people usually respect each other’s personal space.

Popular Metro Stops for Tourists

One of the biggest advantages of the metro is that it connects directly to many of Paris’s most famous attractions.

For example:

The Louvre

Louvre–Rivoli (Line 1)
Palais Royal–Musée du Louvre (Metro and RER)

Musée d’Orsay

Solférino (Line 12)
Musée d’Orsay (RER C)

Eiffel Tower

École Militaire (Line 8)
Bir-Hakeim (Line 6)

Arc de Triomphe

Charles de Gaulle–Étoile (Lines 1, 2, 6 and RER)

Notre-Dame Cathedral

Saint-Michel Notre-Dame (RER C)
Cité (Line 4)

These stations make it very easy to reach many of the city’s iconic landmarks.

Escalator Etiquette

Another important metro etiquette rule involves escalators.

In Paris, you should stand on the right side of the escalator so that people in a hurry can walk past on the left.

Blocking the left side can frustrate commuters who are trying to catch trains.

Each Person Needs Their Own Ticket

If you’re traveling with family or friends, remember that each person needs their own ticket or Navigo card.

You cannot use the same ticket for multiple passengers when entering the system.

Metro Connections

If you need to transfer between metro lines, you don’t need to buy another ticket as long as you stay within the metro system.

However, be prepared for some walking. Transfers between lines can sometimes involve long underground corridors.

Metro vs. RER

Another thing that can confuse visitors is the difference between the metro and the RER.

The metro lines are numbered, while the RER trains use letters such as A, B, or C.

The RER trains travel longer distances and connect Paris to surrounding suburbs and airports. They also move faster and stop less frequently than metro trains.

Metro Operating Hours

The Paris Metro is not open 24 hours.

Trains typically run:

5:30 AM to about 1:00 AM on weekdays
Until about 2:00 AM on weekends

If you’re planning a very late night out, you may need to take a taxi or rideshare instead.

Take Your Time

For first-time visitors, the Paris Metro can feel overwhelming at first. Large stations with multiple lines can involve long underground walks and lots of signage.

The best advice is simple:

Take your time.

Let the crowds move ahead, read the signs carefully, and follow the directions step by step. After a few rides, you’ll likely find that navigating the metro becomes much easier.

Final Thoughts

The Paris Metro may seem intimidating at first, but it’s actually one of the most useful tools you have for exploring the city.

Once you understand the basics—how to buy tickets, how to find the right direction, and how to follow local etiquette—you’ll find that the metro is an easy, affordable, and efficient way to see Paris.

And before long, you might even start to feel like a local navigating the underground tunnels of one of the world’s most beautiful cities.

So don’t be afraid to hop on the metro during your trip. It might just become one of your favorite parts of visiting Paris.

What NOT to Do When Visiting Andorra

Posted on September 14, 2023September 2, 2023 by Mark Wolters

Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we’re talking about what NOT to do when you visit Andorra. This micro-nation is sandwiched between Spain and France and is often overlooked by travelers. It’s about three hours by bus from Toulouse or Barcelona, and we think it’s worth checking out. Before you go, make sure you know what NOT to do when you visit Andorra!

Don’t Miss Out on the Best Things to Do in Andorra

For a small country, Andorra has a lot of fun things to do.

Skiing in Andorra is fantastic and much more affordable than skiing in Switzerland and France.
Summer hiking is also a favorite pastime here; there are some great trails around. If you are scared of heights, you should choose your hike carefully. The Tibetan Bridge is probably not for you!
Shopping brings a lot of travelers to Andorra because of the low taxes. This means there are a LOT of shops and it can look overwhelming, but it’s a shopping destination! The prices in Andorra are quite reasonable, as well.

When planning your trip to Andorra, make sure you pack the right gear for the things you want to do. Of course, you can buy ski clothes, but you want to make sure you are prepared for whatever activities you are planning. Remember, Andorra is at a high elevation in the Pyrenees Mountains, so it can be chilly in the summer. Make sure you have layers packed for any kind of weather!

Don’t Forget to Plan a Spa Day

Thermal spas are also a big draw to Andorra and should be on your Andorra itinerary. Caldea is the main spa in town, and you can’t miss the unique building that looks like the Shard in London. There are spas all over Andorra, though, and some people just hit the spas day after day.

Don’t Miss Andorra Museums

Since Andorra is so small, you can really see a lot. Andorra has some fun museums to check out, including the National Automobile Museum and the Museum of Miniature. There’s also the

Postal Museum, which is funny as the mail from Andorra goes through France or Spain; they don’t have their own post. For a more historic attraction, Casa de la Vall is the original Parliament building of Andorra and was built in the late 16th century.

Don’t Miss the Photo Spots

There are two photo opportunities to see when you visit Andorra. One is the view from the bridge over the river that goes through town. The other famous photo to get in Andorra is the Salvador Dali melting clock sculpture, The Nobility of Time. Since you will rarely get a passport stamp entering or leaving, this is your “proof” of visiting Andorra!

Don’t Try to Arrive by Train or Plane

Unless you are driving, the only way to get to Andorra is by bus. There is no train line or airport here. If you are prone to motion sickness, make sure you have your Dramamine because Andorra is surrounded by mountains and winding roads.

Don’t Listen for French or Spanish

The official language of Andorra is Catalan. It is not French or Spanish. You will still hear a lot of French and Spanish spoken around town, as well as English, especially in the tourism industry.

Five Things You’ll Love & Hate About Catalunya Spain

Don’t Worry About Safety

Andorra is one of the safest countries in the world, so safety should not be a major concern for your trip. In fact, there are some pretty strict laws in Andorra, so you can’t beg in the street, sleep in the street, play music in the street, or upset your neighbors. All of these rules make for a pretty safe environment.

Don’t Miss Out on Local Food

Before Andorra became a tax haven and financial center, it was very agricultural. They still have a lot of local meats, including rabbit and chicken. My favorite meal in Andorra was trout with a ham sauce. The desserts are good too, especially the local version of creme brulee.

Don’t Forget You’re Not in the EU

Andorra is not part of the European Union, nor is it part of France or Spain. It’s an independent nation, although they do use the Euro as their official currency. This means it’s also not always covered under European roaming plans, so you might get a shock from your cell phone bill. Check with your carrier before you leave!

Don’t Annoy the Locals

Andorra has some interesting laws and rules that travelers should take into account. For example, you cannot beg for money, you cannot annoy your neighbor (they have an organization to help with neighbor issues), you probably will need to get permission to do any busking as well, also on a side note, best to know that you will be using either the French or Spanish post due to Andorra not having their own mail system.

Grab Some Wolters World Travel Gear!

Andorra is a fun little micronation to visit between France and Spain. Whether you are into shopping, skiing, or spas, you’ll find something to do when you visit Andorra. Visiting Andorra is a nice change of pace from other more touristy destinations in Europe. Need more travel tips for visiting this part of Europe? Check out these blog posts!

Nine Things That Will Shock You When Visiting Bordeaux

Posted on December 7, 2020December 7, 2020 by Mark Wolters

Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we’re talking about Bordeaux, one of the most beautiful cities in France. It’s an amazing city full of fun surprises. So, today, we’re sharing the nine things that will shock you when you travel to Bordeaux.

The Abundance of Wine

Sure, Bordeaux is known for wine, but you will be shocked at how often you are drinking wine in Bordeaux. The wine is phenomenal, so this is not a bad thing. But truly, life in Bordeaux revolves around wine. It appears in many recipes, and many of the best things to do in Bordeaux are at the vineyards and wineries.

UNESCO World Heritage Center

Because so many people visit Bordeaux for the wine and the countryside, the city itself is relatively uncrowded. And that’s a shame, because the historic city center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is a city of Art and History, and there is so much to explore. The architecture is phenomenal, and the preservation is fantastic. Bring your walking shoes, because this is a walking city!

How to Choose Shoes For Your Europe Trip

The Bordeaux Food Scene

French cuisine is world-renowned, and I’ve had some of the best French food in Bordeaux. The meat and seafood in Bordeaux is phenomenal, especially the oysters. Of course, wine features heavily in the sauces, too. Don’t forget to leave room for dessert, as the pastries are amazing, too! It’s a good thing you’ll be doing so much walking because you’ll need to walk off all that fantastic Bordeaux food.

Friendly Locals

France has a bad rap for rude locals, and for the most part, we’ve not found that to be the case. The locals in Bordeaux are super friendly and totally negate that rude reputation that the French have. Even the servers are super friendly. If you speak a little bit of French, they are even more friendly, and very tolerant of beginner’s French.

Ten Things That Will Shock You in France

The Number of Vineyards

Of course, your Bordeaux trip will include a vineyard tour. There are hundreds of vineyards that are open to the public, so you can spend weeks just exploring the vineyards of Bordeaux. Just make sure you call ahead to ask for the wine-tasting hours. Most of the vineyards aren’t open all day and every day for visitors, so you need to plan ahead.

Bordeaux Day Trips

When you visit Bordeaux, make sure you also include time in your itinerary for the day trips. There are so many chateaux and villages scattered throughout the countryside here, and they’re all worth a trip. There are even beaches within an hour of Bordeaux. Having a car really gives you more freedom to explore all of the day trips from Bordeaux.

Rue Sainte-Catherine

Rue Sainte-Catherine is the main pedestrian shopping street of Bordeaux, and it’s shocking how long the street is. It’s said to be the longest pedestrian shopping street in France. There’s something for everyone along this street, so if you have any shoppers in your family, you definitely want to plan a day to stroll the Rue Sainte-Catherine. And it’s not just shopping; there are plenty of bars and cafes along the way, too.

Water Mirror

Across the street from Place de la Bourse, you have to visit the Water Mirror, or Miroir d’Eau. It is the largest reflecting pool in the world, and it’s really cool to see in person. It was created to be a reflecting pool and a “mist forest” at alternating intervals. So you get to see the cool reflections of the buildings and then play in the water jets. If you can catch it at sunset, it’s even more beautiful.

Access from Paris

We were shocked at how quickly we traveled from Paris to Bordeaux. If you take the TGV, it’s just over two hours. Despite the easy access from Paris, there are relatively few tourists in Bordeaux. You really feel like you are having a French experience with loads of culture and cuisine, without the tourist crowds of Paris. If you are planning to travel over a weekend, though, amke sure you book your tickets in advance as they do sell out.

Culture Shocks of Bordeaux — Well worth the ride.

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We always love visiting France, but we were still shocked at how much we loved visiting Bordeaux. It’s really a great destination in France, and an excellent place to escape the tourist crowds of Paris. Looking for more tips on travel in France? Check out some of our other blog posts!

Christmas in France: French Christmas Traditions

Posted on December 1, 2020July 21, 2020 by Mark Wolters

Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we’re talking about visiting France during the Christmas holiday season. Quaint Christmas markets aren’t exclusive to Germany; there are some really great Christmas markets in France as well. We’ve celebrated Christmas in France several times over the years. Traveling over Christmas is a great way to experience a new culture and partake in new traditions with your family.

Christmas Greetings

The first thing you need to know is how to say “Merry Christmas” in France. There are two common sayings you’ll use often. Bon Noel and Joyeux Noel are the two most common ways to say Merry Christmas in France. Joyeux Noel is the most popular version though.

Ten Things That Will Shock You in France

When is Christmas Celebrated in France?

In France, the big celebration is actually on December 24th, the night before Christmas. Le réveillon is a huge family celebration with a big meal and decorations. Be ready to eat well and celebrate into the wee hours on Christmas Eve. Typically, the whole family will attend mass in the evening and then come home to the big meal. This is also when good wine and champagne come out.

After everyone has gone to bed, Père Noël delivers gifts in the night to be opened in the morning. Rather than hanging your stockings on the mantle, French children leave their shoes by the fireplace. This isn’t the only time children receive gifts during the holiday season. On December 5, children leave their shoes outside the bedroom door and Saint Nicolas fills them with candies and treats.

The Advent Calendar is another popular activity during the holiday season in France. Starting on December 1, families begin to count down to Christmas. Each day of the Advent Calendar brings new treats until finally arriving at the big celebration.

christmas in france — One of our many Christmases in France.

Christmas Food in France

There are some quintessential French Christmas foods that you should have while celebrating. Foie Gras, oysters, and smoked salmon are the three most common appetizer-type foods you should have before the big meal. The main dish will be some kind of fowl. We’ve had turkey stuffed with chestnuts, or duck is another common dish served for le réveillon. You’ll be pretty full by now, but you must have dessert, too! The Yule Log, or bûche de noel, is a cake rolled into a log and frosted to look like bark.

A snack you might enjoy as you do your Christmas shopping is Marron glacé, which are candied chestnuts. These are often sold at the Christmas markets, in addition to traditional roasted chestnuts.

Mulled wine is a holiday treat for adults that helps you stay warm while celebrating outdoors at the Christmas markets and festivals.

Christmas Markets in France

Strasbourg Christmas markets have given the town the moniker of the “capital of Christmas markets.” Fortunately, Christmas markets can be found all over France. You absolutely have to experience Christmas markets if you visit France during the holidays. It’s a great place to do some Christmas shopping, and they always have fun activities for the kids. Some will even have a small carnival with games and rides.

The Best & Worst of Celebrating Christmas in Europe

The Christmas Crèche

Another Christmas tradition in France is the Christmas Crèche. It’s really fun to go around to the different churches to see their nativity displays. Some of them are quite elaborate. There are even museums about the Christmas crèche.

Day of the Three Kings

The holiday season in France doesn’t end with Christmas. January 6th is Three Kings Day. This is actually the 12th day of Christmas and marks the close of the holiday season. This is when King Cake is served in France. Hidden inside the cake, there is a small toy and whoever gets the piece with the toy gets to wear the King’s crown for the day.

Some parts of Christmas are international, even in France.

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We really enjoy the French Christmas traditions, which is why we’ve spent so many holiday seasons in France. The food and the festive atmosphere are fun for the whole family. I hope this inspires you to consider exploring a new culture over the holidays with your family. For more tips on family travel, check out some of our other blog posts:

10 Day France Itinerary

Posted on July 22, 2020July 21, 2020 by Mark Wolters

Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we’re talking about all of the amazing places to visit in France. Paris is one of the most visited cities in the world, but there’s a ton of other places to go in France. There are so many variations of France travel itineraries that it can be hard to narrow down. So today we’re sharing our favorite French destinations to help you plan 10 days in France.

Three Days in Paris

You will likely start your France itinerary in Paris, as it’s where most international flights arrive. We recommend spending three days in Paris, exploring the major sights of the City of Lights. A few of our favorite things to do in Paris include:

Visit the Louvre, but have a plan ahead of time for the items you want to see. Otherwise, this can take up a whole day of your trip!
See the famous Impressionist paintings at Musee d’Orsay.
Take a stroll down the Champs Elysee.
Visit the Arc de Triomphe. (Enter underground; don’t try to cross the roundabout!)
Visit the Eiffel Tower. If you are claustrophobic, don’t try going to the top, the elevators are packed! You can just as easily enjoy the tower from the park below; there’s even a playground for kids to run around in.
Explore other neighborhoods of Paris; Montmartre is one of our favorites and we usually stay there.
Take a boat tour of the River Seine; evening tours are really neat as you can see everything lit up.
Enjoy Parisian cuisine and wine. Don’t forget all of the sweet desserts, too! (Remember, taxes and service is already included in the menu price!)

Day Trips from Paris

You can stay in Paris and still enjoy some excellent day trips out of the city. Disneyland Paris and Versailles are two of the more popular day trips from Paris.

Three Days in Normandy

Normandy is a beautiful spot in Northern France, best known for the D-Day beaches. Americans especially will want to visit this important historic site from World War II. I recommend taking the train from Paris to one of the towns in Normandy, and renting a car from there to explore the countryside.

Rouen is a great home base in Normandy, as it’s a larger town with good public transportation connections. Bayeux is another good spot to stay in Normandy, as it has some great museums and easy access to the D-Day beaches.

silly tourists — Got to love a rain soaked visit to Versailles.

Some of the best things to see in Normandy include:

The D-Day Beaches: Omaha Beach, the American cemetery at Omaha, Utah Beach, and the Paratrooper Museum.
The Battle of Normandy Museum in Bayeux, as well as the Bayeux tapestry
Rouen and the cathedral that was painted by Monet several times
Sample the local apple cider and fresh seafood.
Visit Mont St. Michel, the famous abbey on an island and one of the most famous pilgrimage sites for over 1200 years.
If you are visiting France with kids, Normandy has some really great carnivals.

What to Eat in Normandy, France

Three Days in Loire Valley

From Normandy, either drive or take the train to the Loire Valley. This is the former playground of French royalty. The valley is dotted with dozens of ornate castles and estates. Amboise is a good home base for your stay in the Loire Valley. We recommend only seeing one or two chateaux per day. Otherwise, they all start to blend together.

In addition to visiting the chateaux of the Loire Valley, there are many cool things to do in the region.

It’s one of the best wine-making regions of France, so a wine-tasting tour is a great idea.
Duck is a local specialty, so make sure you try some while visiting
Tour the chateaux by bicycle or hot air balloon! There are specialty tours of all kinds in the Loire Valley

From here, it’s only about 90 minutes by train to get back to Paris for your flight home. If you have more time to spend in France, then we recommend heading south to Provence and/or the Cote d’Azur for a few more days.

Avignon, where the Papal Palaces were
Arles, with the Roman ruins
Nimes, with more Roman history
Visit the French Riviera beaches of Nice, Cannes or even Monte Carlo

kids in france — many years of visiting France

We love exploring all of the regions of France, including Paris. We have visited many times with our kids, and we look forward to visiting many more times in the future. Narrowing down a France itinerary to ten days is difficult, as there are just so many cool things to see in France.

Looking for more tips on travel in France? Check out these other blog posts:

What to See & Do in Amboise, France

Posted on June 23, 2020June 9, 2020 by Mark Wolters

Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we’re talking about Amboise, France. This small town in France’s Loire Valley is where Leonardo DaVinci lived the last years of his life. Amboise is a great base for exploring the Loire Valley and the nearby French countryside. So, we wanted to share our tips for the best things to do in Amboise, France.

Amboise Chateau

Like many villages of the Loire Valley, Amboise is centered on a castle, in this case, the Chateau d’Amboise. Sitting on a hill overlooking the Loire River, the Amboise Chateau was at one time the Royal residence of King Charles VIII. You can easily reach the chateau from town and take a tour of the palace. In the summer, they have a sound and light show which is fun, and the gardens are a great place for the kids to run off some energy.

Five Things You’ll Love & Hate About the Loire Valley

Chapel of Saint-Hubert

Just outside of the chateau, there’s a small chapel off to the side. This is actually where you can see Leonardo da Vinci’s tomb. He is buried here, as Amboise is where he spend the last three years of his life.

leonardo da vinci's grave — There is Da Vinci’s tomb.

Clos Luce

If you want to see where DaVinci spent the last three years of his life, you can visit Clos Luce, where he lived in Amboise. Not only can you see the room where he slept, but many of his ideas and designs are on display. There are some designs that failed during his lifetime but have been recreated for display today. There’s an entire park featuring his designs. You really get a sense of how brilliant DaVinci was. Clos Luce is surprisingly kid-friendly; our boys loved the outdoor areas.

Cave Homes

As you walk from Chateau d’Amboise to Clos Luce, you’ll see houses built into the rock walls. It’s something you might expect to see in Turkey or Greece, but in the Loire Valley? Yes, there are cave homes right here in Amboise. They are built into the rock wall below the chateau. They are really neat to see but remember these are private residences, so be respectful of their privacy.

Amboise Center

One of the best things to do in Amboise is just to walk around the Old Town area and explore the small side streets that stem off of Rue Nationale. Strolling down the narrow cobblestone alleys really makes you feel like you are in Old World France, and you can almost imagine what it was like in the days when Kings and Queens ruled the Loire Valley.

Outdoor Adventure in Amboise

The Loire Valley is where the Parisian royals went to relax and get away from the city. So, there are loads of outdoor opportunities in and around Amboise. The chateaux have amazing gardens and playgrounds, and you can take a cycling tour or a kayak tour. Hot air balloons are also a popular way to see the Loire Valley.

Explore the Loire Valley Chateaux

Amboise is a great home base for exploring the rest of the Loire Valley. There are many hotels and accommodation options in Amboise, and you can take a train, bus, or guided tour to surrounding Loire Valley chateaux. The Château de Chenonceau is less than 20 minutes by car, while the Château de Chambord, Loire Valley’s largest chateau, is less than one hour from Amboise.

Six Rules for European Train Travel

Loire Valley Wine Tasting

There are tons of wineries and vineyards in the Loire Valley. There are several near Amboise, and more scattered throughout the valley. You can sign up for a guided tour, hire a private driver, or assign a designated driver in your group to take you to the various Loire Valley wine tasting rooms and vineyards.

exploring loire valley — The family enjoying life in & around Amboise

ZooParc de Beauval

If you are visiting the Loire Valley with kids, the ZooParc de Beauval outside of Amboise is a fun place to visit. It’s the largest zoo in France and is the perfect break from chateau-overload that can sometimes happen in the Loire Valley.

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Amboise is the perfect place to stay when visiting the Loire Valley. Only two hours by train from Paris, and centrally located amongst many cool chateaux and vineyards, we loved Amboise.

Looking for more tips on travel in France? Check out these other blog posts:

The Most Overrated Sights in Paris

Posted on April 5, 2020March 27, 2020 by Mark Wolters

Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we’re talking about all the places to visit in Paris. Paris is a great city and we visit often, however, there are some Paris attractions that are totally overrated. We’re going to save you some time and frustration by telling you which Paris sights you should skip and which attituded and rumors are overrated.

The Mona Lisa Experience

The Mona Lisa painting by Leonardo da Vinci is one of the most popular attractions in Paris. It’s located in the Louvre, and people crowd around this tiny little painting. Yes, it’s an iconic piece of art, but after fighting and shoving your way to the front of the crowd to get a glimpse, you may be a bit let down.

Notice that we don’t list the whole Louvre as being overrated. There is a ton of cool art to check out, but you might be underwhelmed by some of the most popular pieces.

Ascending the Eiffel Tower

I’ve done this several times, and you do get a great view of Paris. However, the entire experience is underwhelming. You have to go through security checks, wait in several lines, and be crammed in with a lot of other people. If you are claustrophobic or you don’t like heights, this is not the Paris experience for you. If we visit Paris with friends who want to go up the Eiffel Tower, we usually hang out in the park below and wait for them.

Shopping on the Champs Elysees

The Champs-Elysees is probably the most famous shopping street in the world. Because of its popularity, it’s also the most expensive street in Paris. It’s also pretty touristy, so you’ll pay more to shop or dine along the Champs-Elysees than you will anywhere else in Paris. There are way better places to go shopping in Paris. We recommend exploring other arrondissements in Paris and finding out of the way boutiques and cafes.

most instagrammable shots in paris — Look who is an instagram influencer!

TGV Schedule

If you are traveling around France and returning to Paris for a flight back home, don’t count on the TGV being on time. The TGV is great, you can get anywhere in France relatively quickly. However, you can’t count on it being on time. We almost always come back to Paris the night before our flight so that we don’t have to worry about missing our flight due to train delays.

Parisian Reputation

If you’ve never traveled to Paris, you’re going to assume everyone is rude. That’s the reputation that Parisians have, but it’s pretty unwarranted. Sometimes, you’ll get bad service if you are in a heavily touristed area, so I think this Parisian reputation mostly comes from the service industry. All the Parisians we have met are perfectly friendly and helpful. The reputation of rude Parisians is just not true.

Five Things You Will Love & Hate About Visiting Paris

Anti-Americanism

Another rumor you might have heard is that the Parisians hate Americans. We’ve been coming to Paris for years and have not experienced this at all. If you have a bad experience, don’t assume it’s because you are American. Now, if you are a loud, demanding tourist, you might be shunned a bit, but we’ve always had great experiences traveling in Paris.

Uncleanliness of Paris

Another unfounded rumor about Paris is that it’s a dirty city. I haven’t found Paris to be any dirtier than any other capital city in Europe, or the United States for that matter. There are over two million people in Paris, so of course, it’s not going to be squeaky clean like a small Midwest US town. Paris has great parks and green spaces to escape to when you are feeling too constricted by the concrete streets and buildings. The dog poop rumors are true, though, so watch where you step!

12 Things That Will Shock You in Paris

What is NOT Overrated in Paris?

There are plenty of things in Paris that are not overrated. These include:

Food in Paris – AMAZING!
Traffic in Paris – definitely frustrating, do not recommend! You don’t need a car in Paris.
Public Transportation in Paris – easy to use and takes you anywhere you want to go
Shopping in Paris – fantastic!
Number of Tourists – there is no “off-season” in Paris; expect crowds year-round.

Paris travel information — However, you really should visit Paris, because it is not overrated. It is over-awesome!

Some people may go so far as to say all of Paris is overrated. We don’t agree with that at all, but we do agree that these sites in Paris are overrated. There are still plenty of cool things to see in Paris, though! If you want more tips on family travel in France, check out some of our other blog posts:

The Best & Worst of Visiting The Loire Valley

Posted on August 4, 2019August 3, 2019 by admin

Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we visit the Loire Valley of France! With so many beautiful chateaux and vineyards to explore, the Loire Valley is a great place to go when you’re in France. As you know, here at Wolters World, we like to prepare travelers with the good, and the bad, of visiting a new travel destination. So these are the five things you’ll love, and the five things you’ll hate when you visit the Loire Valley castles.

Hate #1: Chateaux Overload

Each chateau in the Loire Valley is amazing and impressive, but after seeing three or four of them, they can start to blend together. I recommend choosing the top two or three that you really want to see, or spending multiple days in the Loire Valley so you can spread them out a bit. Each chateau also has a really interesting history, but if you see too many in one day, you’ll get burned out on history and won’t be able to take it all in.

Hate #2: You Need a Car

Public transportation can get you to the Loire Valley, but the chateaux are built out in the countryside, not in the center of towns, so in order to fully chart your own course, you really need to rent a car. Of course, there are many tours that will bring you out on a day trip from Paris, but exploring on your own is much more fun. Driving in France is pretty easy, but parking can be a challenge in some of the smaller villages, especially if you have a larger car. Likewise, when you book accommodation, make sure you have parking that will fit the car you are renting.

Everything You Need to Know About Driving in Europe

Hate #3: Beverage Prices

Loire Valley prices in general are a bit higher because it’s a touristy region, but overall, they aren’t too bad. What really surprised us is the price of non-alcoholic beverages. We were spending four Euros for a soda or bottled water every time we eat out. Beer and wine prices are totally normal, but for some reason, they really hike up the prices of non-alcoholic drinks.

Hate #4: Summer Tour Groups

Summer is the best time to visit the Loire Valley, because the elaborate gardens are in their full splendor, but it’s also high tourist season. The most popular chateaux can be overwhelmed with tour groups and you start to feel a bit crowded, not to mention the longer lines to tour the palaces. If you plan to visit Loire Valley in summer, try to get there first thing in the morning, or towards the end of the day and this can help avoid some of the day-trippers from Paris.

Hate #5: Loire Valley Traffic

If you are driving around the Loire Valley, it can get frustrating very quickly. Between tour buses, campers and tourists driving while ogling the chateaux, driving in the Loire Valley, especially in summer is not super fun. But as we mentioned before, it’s really necessary if you want to explore at your own pace.

Love #1: Loire Valley Chateaux

This is the reason you are visiting the Loire Valley and the chateaux are awesome! You’ve seen them in movies, history books and travel channel shows, and now you finally get to see them in person. It’s so fun to compare the different architectural styles and then tour the inside of each castle. What’s even more fun is to learn the story behind each chateau, whether it was a hunting lodge or a place where a King squirreled away his mistresses. A lot of these are privately owned, with government incentives to promote tourism, so they have great guides and accessibility for visitors.

Love #2: More Than Chateaux

When you come to Loire Valley, you’ll realize there’s much more to see besides the chateaux. The Loire River flows through the valley, bicycle rentals and paths to explore the chateaux by bike. You can take a boat tour or a kayak tour, or go hiking in the forests surrounding the chateaux. Many of the castles were built as hunting lodges, so the surrounding land is undeveloped forests and rivers. Many of the gardens of the chateaux are free to explore, so you can spend some time outdoors enjoying the fresh air.

Love #3: Tourist Infrastructure

With so many tourists visiting the Loire Valley, the tourist infrastructure is really well-developed. There is a good range of Loire Valley accommodation for all budget ranges, as well as Loire Valley restaurants that range from inexpensive to gourmet.

Love #4: French Culture in Loire Valley

The Loire Valley is a great place to submerge yourself in French culture. The food, especially the duck, is fantastic. There are tons of different wines in the Loire Valley, so you can sample several until you find your favorite. Even some of the cafeterias at the chateaux have amazing food and it’s cafeteria food! The people are really nice, too. The French reputation for rudeness really only applies to the service staff in Paris. Once you get outside of Paris, people are really lovely and helpful. There are fewer English speakers, but you will get by just fine, even better if you know a few French phrases.

Love #5: Paris to Loire Valley Connections

The Loire Valley is really close to Paris, so it’s easy to visit to travel from Paris to Loire Valley. If you arrive in Paris from the US in the morning, you can catch a train to the Loire Valley and check out a chateau on your first day. It’s close enough for a day trip, or you can choose to stay in Loire Valley and take a day trip to Paris.

Five Things You Will Love & Hate About Paris

The Loire Valley of France was really a great trip for us, we all enjoyed it as a family. The “hates” are really just a few things to keep a head’s up on rather than a reason not to visit Loire Valley. Want more info about travel in France? Check out these other blog posts:

5 Things Tourists Love & Hate about Provence, France

Posted on August 3, 2019August 3, 2019 by admin

Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we visit Provence France! Provence is really amazing, with lavender fields, Roman architecture, and beautiful Provence villages. As you know, here at Wolters World, we like to prepare travelers with the good, and the bad, of visiting a new travel destination. So these are the five things you’ll love, and the five things you’ll hate when you visit Provence.

Hate #1: You Need a Car

While you can take the train from town to town, to really explore Provence, you need to have your own car. It’s the best way to see all of the things to do in Provence, because you want to be able to linger in one place and not be rushed around by a tour guide or tour group, or be beholden to a train schedule.

Hate #2: Tourist Crowds

The secret is out on Provence. Many Provence destinations, especially in summer, can feel a bit overrun with tourists. If you want to stay in a Provence village between May and September, plan to book your accommodation far in advance because the B&B’s and hotels can fill up during the busy months.

Hate #3: Pickpockets & Tourist Scams

Unfortunately, wherever there are crowds of tourists, the tourist scammers are not far behind. Pickpockets are definitely an issue in the large Provence towns like Avignon, although not as bad as in Nice or Marseilles. Likewise, if you rent a car for your trip, make sure you don’t leave belongings out in the open. Leave them locked in the trunk or back at your hotel.

How to Avoid Travel Scams & Rip-Offs

Hate #4: TGV Station Locations

When you take the TGV down from Paris, as a lot of people do, you’ll find that the TGV stations are not often in the center of town. Most towns have a train station in the center, but it’s not where the high-speed train goes, so once you arrive by TGV, you’ll have to transfer to a local train in order to reach the city center.

Hate #5: High Season Prices

The influx of tourists to Provence has caused a considerable increase in prices in Provence, especially for accommodation. So, it’s important to book ahead to get the best deals, but also consider renting an apartment so you can save money on meals. Provence has excellent markets, so cooking with fresh, local ingredients is a great way to experience the culture.

How to Cut Costs While You Travel

Love #1: Lavender Fields & Nature

Come June, when the lavender starts to bloom and the fields explode in color, it’s just gorgeous to drive around and take it all in. The beauty of Provence is truly in the nature so you will be outside a lot, and it’s the reason you want to rent a car.

Love #2: Provence Villages

Every Provence village seems to be cuter than the next. With cobblestone streets, flowery plazas, and historic churches, it’s hard to believe just how many things there are to see in Provence. It’s also important to see more than Avignon and Aix-en-Provence; make sure you are getting out to the smaller towns.

Love #3: Historic Sights

At one time, Avignon had Popes based there, so there are Papal Palaces and churches. Of course, the Roman aqueducts and walled cities have a ton of history surrounding them. VanGogh spent a lot of time in Arles, so some areas of Provence may even look familiar on your first visit and it’s because you’ve seen them in paintings.

Love #4: Tourism Infrastructure

You may have heard that people in France don’t speak English, but that’s far from the truth. Provence has an excellent tourist infrastructure that includes a lot of English speakers. There are maps and guides that are easily available for travelers, as well as many tours if you decide not to have your own car.

Love #5: Food & Wine

Yes, food and wine is fantastic everywhere in France, but it’s even more so in Provence. The wine is amazing, so make sure you visit some of the vineyards throughout Provence. The food is so good, and is a major part of the local culture. Many travelers come here specifically for food tours or cooking classes because it’s a very well-known region for food and wine.

Provence France is a great holiday destination and an area we love to visit. The “hates” are really just a few things to keep a head’s up on rather than a reason not to visit Provence. Want more info about travel in France? Check out these other blog posts:

5 Things You Will Love & Hate about Visiting Paris

Posted on July 27, 2019July 26, 2019 by admin

Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we visit Paris, France! I think Paris is probably the most beautiful city in Europe and quite possibly the world. As you know, here at Wolters World, we like to prepare travelers with the good, and the bad, of visiting a new travel destination. So these are the five things you’ll love, and the five things you’ll hate when you visit Paris.

Hate #1: Pickpockets in Paris

One of the worst things about visiting Paris is being a target of pickpockets and aggressive beggars. You really have to be careful, especially at the busy metro stops and train stations. People will follow you through a turnstile and steal your wallet in the commotion.

Read: How to Avoid Travel Scams & Ripoffs

Hate #2: Strikes in Paris

You might get lucky and avoid any strikes, but they are a pretty common occurrence these days and they can affect your Paris travel, whether it’s the metro or the buses or the airports. If you are concerned, talk to the staff at your hotel ahead of time and ask them what to expect. In general, they try to ensure that strikes don’t affect the tourism industry too heavily.

Hate #3: Paris is Expensive

When you see the prices in Paris, you will be expecting a lot more than what you get. For comparison, your hotel will be more expensive than in Rome, for a room half the size. Just remember, the point of Paris is to explore Paris and not stay in your room. So, if you set your expectations for a small room with possibly a shared bathroom, then you won’t be disappointed.

Hate #4: Tourists in Paris

Expect to wait in a lot of lines in Paris due to crowds of tourists, especially at the Louvre and the Eiffel Tower. The lines for some of the best Paris sightseeing spots might scare you off, and that’s OK. Paris is so beautiful, you can easily explore it from the street and admire the outside of the buildings. To help alleviate some of the wait times, try to buy timed tickets ahead of time and visit the big museums mid-week, saving the smaller museums for the weekend.

Hate #5: Service in Paris

For whatever reason, the service industry seems to ruin French people who are otherwise very pleasant. For a big city, the people of Paris are very friendly and helpful, but most interactions with someone in a service capacity are not positive. This is what gives travelers the impression that French people are rude because they are only interacting with people in the service industry. Be prepared for that, and try to meet some locals so you can have a better impression of Parisians.

Love #1: Food in Paris

The food in Paris is amazing! The food all over France is great, but Paris also has great international cuisine on top of fantastic French cuisine. You will eat very well in Paris; I recommend getting the daily special which includes a starter, entree, and dessert for anywhere from 10 to 30 Euros. It’s a great deal and you get to sample several dishes. Some traditional food includes escargot or frog legs, plus the amazing desserts and pastries and let’s not forget about the wine!

Love #2: Public Transportation in Paris

No matter where you are in Paris, there’s a Metro stop within 500 meters. It’s so easy to get around Paris and you don’t have to worry about spending money on taxis all the time. I do recommend walking as much as possible so you can take in all the sights, but when your feet get tired, it’s easy to hop on a train. One note of caution, though: not all stations have lifts, so if you travel with a wheelchair or a stroller, it may be a little more difficult.

Read: Disabled Travel in Europe

Love #3: Paris Museums

There are so many cool museums in Paris. The ones you know, like the Louvre with the Mona Lisa, Winged Victory and Venus de Milo, or the Musee d’Orsay with Monet, Manet, and Degas. And then there are tons of smaller, lesser-known museums in Paris that would take you years to explore.

Love #4: Strolling Through Paris

The best part of visiting Paris is just wandering around. The architecture is amazing, and a stroll along the Seine and the many bridges will have you in love with Paris in no time. No matter how many times you have been to Paris, about 20 times for me, you’ll still catch your breath when you see the Eiffel Tower. It’s just such an iconic sight, you can’t believe it’s real.

Love #5: Parisian Cafes

Another quintessential Paris experience is to sit at a cafe and people watch. You can really soak in the atmosphere of the city when you take a moment to sit down, relax with a cup of cafe au lait and watch the world go by. It’s a great chance to take off your tourist hat and blend in with the locals for a bit.

Paris is a great city and we love visiting over and over again. The “hates” are really just a few things to keep a head’s up on rather than a reason not to visit Paris. Are you ready to start planning a trip to Paris? Check out these other blog posts: