Are you planning a trip to Paris? Whether it is your first time visiting the City of Lights, or you are a repeat traveller, these five free apps are guaranteed to make exploring Paris easier, and more enjoyable!
Flush
If you aren’t prepared this one will be quite a shock. Almost as soon as you exit the airport you will find that to use a restroom you will have to pay. Whether you are in a train station, at a historical site, or even shopping at a department store you will either have to scan your card or pay a Euro to use the toilets. There are free toilets throughout Paris, however, we found these to be quite frankly, disgustingly unkempt. Please think of the worst gas station bathroom you can imagine and that is what we experienced! So keep a few euros in your pocket and consider downloading the app “Flush” to help you find a bathroom quickly.
Google Translate
This app will be a lifesaver on your trip if you don’t know French! I had learned a bit of French before my trip to Paris and I would suggest that everyone make an effort to learn simple phrases. Even with my practice, I couldn’t keep up at times with the speed at which announcements were made on loudspeakers, or understand complicated phrases and uncommon words. The Google Translate App allows you to take pictures of signs, brochures, and menus, and instantly translate them into your chosen language. The app also will let you record a message, and transcribe what has been said into your language!
Citymapper
Citymapper is an invaluable app for navigating the bustling streets and sprawling public transport system of Paris. Citymapper provides real-time directions that take into all available metro, bus, and walking routes. This ensures that you can find the quickest and most convenient way to reach your destination, whether you’re heading to a popular tourist attraction or exploring an area off the beaten path. I find that it works a bit better than Google Maps in Paris!
Open Table
Booking reservations and searching for dinner was made easy once I downloaded Open Table! The different filters for distance from my hotel, cuisine type, price, and star rating helped me narrow down my options for this enormous city known for its delicious food!
If have limited data on your E-Sim, or a plan with your phone carrier that restricts your use of data in a foreign country, consider using WhatsApp! By switching your cellular data off, and using Whatsapp on wifi (there is plenty throughout Paris) you can save yourself some money and easily communicate with your loved ones back home!
Rick Stevens Audio Europe
Do you like podcasts? Consider downloading Rick Stevens Audio Europe. The offerings on this app range from short recordings on topics like the Bridges of Paris, Winter in Paris, and Parisian Food Markets, to long walking tours for popular attractions like the Orsay Museum or the Louvre!
Having the right apps on your phone can significantly enhance your Paris experience. From finding a bathroom quickly with Flush, to navigating the city’s public transport with Citymapper, these apps will provide invaluable support and help you make the most of your trip to the City of Lights. Happy travels, and thanks for reading! 🙂
Check out my post 7 Unexpected Differences between France and the USA!