Experience Paris Like a Local: Our 12-Day Family Adventure

Paris. While I’d visited once before, I didn’t really know the city, nor do I speak French. But on our recent 12-day trip, traveling with family, we bypassed the typical whirlwind tour and discovered a different, more intimate Paris, truly experiencing it like locals.

We skipped the hotel and stayed at an apartment in the charming 16th arrondissement, right in the Passy neighborhood. This neighborhood became our haven. Being located just steps away from authentic bakeries, well-stocked supermarkets, inviting restaurants, and charming local stores was wonderful.

The absolute star of my day, every day, was our morning walk to Aux Pains de Manon and to Aux Merveilleux de Fred for coffee and fresh pastries. There’s something magical about starting your day with that simple, delicious Parisian ritual.

I was a bit nervous about the language barrier. I’d heard stories about Parisians being impatient with non-French speakers. My experience was completely different. With a little help from Google translation, I could manage basic interactions. More importantly, I found the French people we encountered to be patient and genuinely nice.

Paris amazed me with its history layered on every corner, and the best way to soak it in is undoubtedly by foot. We walked about 10 to 20 miles a day. Paris is the perfect city for walking (though maybe plan your trip when it’s not too cold).

From our neighborhood, the majestic Eiffel Tower was only 20 minutes away walking, passing through Park de Passy and the Pont d’lèna. We explored bustling boulevards and quiet side streets, discovering hidden gems along the way. Our main modes of transport were our own two feet, supplemented by the efficient Metro (yes, we managed to learn how to ride it!) and occasional Ubers for longer distances.

We discovered an incredibly fun side to Paris. A highlight for our kids was hunting for street art by the French street artist “Invader.” His work consists of little pixelated figures made of colorful tiles, hidden on buildings all over the city.

Our 9 -year-old loved spotting these “invaders,” turning our explorations into an exciting city-wide treasure hunt. Kids were engaged and eager to keep walking as we explored diverse areas like Le Marais, Montmartre, Saint-Germain-des-Prés, Bois du Bologne, the area around the Seine and the recovering Notre Dame.

One day we took the TGV train to Strasbourg. The cathedral, Notre-Dame, is truly breathtaking. Its history spanning centuries is just incredible. Even on a cold and rainy Good Friday with closed shops, that architectural marvel makes the trip worthwhile.

Beyond the big sights, what truly struck me about Paris was the everyday beauty in the meticulous service, the stunning presentation of products in shops, the sheer quality of ingredients, and the attention to detail in everything. Paris is a feast for the senses.

This trip changed my perception of Paris. We didn’t just see the sights; we lived a little slice of Parisian life. We learned that navigating the city is manageable, the people are welcoming, and there’s so much joy to be found in simple pleasures and unexpected discoveries.

If you’re planning a trip, consider staying in a neighborhood apartment, embrace walking, and look for the fun – you might just find you experience Paris like a local too!