Paris is a hot destination for tourists and remote workers who enjoy exploring, and it’s undoubtedly one of the best places to visit. Besides being the capital of France, Paris city is well-known as a romantic and cultural city, a great place to explore. Luckily, as a digital nomad or remote worker, you have the luxury of working wherever you want. As a digital nomad considering Paris as your next destination, this guide will provide valuable insights into what to expect in Paris as a digital nomad, from the culture to the hidden gems.
A Brief History of Paris and How It Has Evolved Throughout the Years
Paris is an old cultural city with a rich history. The modern Paris city initially spread from the island called Île de la Cité and far beyond the banks of the Seine. In the first century BCE, the Roman administration appointed the native site on the Île de la Cité as the Parisii territory. Paris evolved under different rulers and became a cultural and political hub that allowed modern France to take shape.
Being located at a crossroads of both land and water routes in France, the location continued to influence the city’s growth over the years. Today, Paris city has grown to be one of the world’s prime cultural and business centers. It’s one of the most attractive places in the world, and its culture revolves around museums, arts, music, festivals, fashion, and entertainment. If you’re a remote worker who finds joy in traveling and learning about new things, Paris is a fun city to explore.
What Would It Be Like Living and Working From Paris for a Month?
As a digital nomad, you want to visit an exciting destination that allows you to have fun and work comfortably. Here’s what to expect if you plan on calling Paris home for a month:
Museums and Churches
Historical museums and churches form a massive part of the history of Paris city. When you stay in Paris, you’ll get to explore the famous historical churches and cathedrals scattered throughout the city. Interestingly, apart from spiritual significance, the city’s historic churches are one of the most loved venues to explore if you love classical music. Paris’ historical churches feature spectacular scenery and unique sounds, which makes them great monuments to music. The most treasured museums and churches in Paris include the Musée du Luxembourg, Musée du Louvre, Orsay, Orangerie, 59 Rivoli, the Notre Dame Cathedral, and La Sainte-Chapelle.
Parisian Food
After enjoying your sightseeing or cultural visit at the Museums, you can take a relaxing break and enjoy numerous cultural cuisines from the famous Parisian Museum’s kitchens. Paris offers a food culture worth crossing the Atlantic for, with many restaurants providing original dining suggestions of French cuisine.
Check out the top restaurants, such as Le Meurice, La Tour d’Argent, and Le Jardin de Montreuil, to unravel the wonders and mysteries of Parisian food. Popular French dishes to try out are Coq au Vin and Macarons.
The Amazing Market Areas
While still on the outstanding Parisian food, visitors and digital nomads alike love exploring the various open-air food markets. If you love great food, explore one of the many gourmet markets and discover the secrets of the high-quality foods Parisians consume, such as French onion soup and steak frites. The top open-air food markets include Saxe-Breteuil Market and Raspail Market.
Cafés
In a city boasting over 100 museums and distinctive food culture, you’ll definitely find some great cafés to explore, take a snack, or even work as a digital nomad. Paris café culture began in the 19th century when people convened in coffee shops to discuss anything. Some of the best cafes to visit as a digital nomad include Le Procope Paris and Le Dôme Café.
The Parks and Picnic Culture
Parisians make the most out of spring and summer with their picnic culture. The best picnic spots range from formal gardens and parks to little squares and riverside quays. If you’re wondering where you can potentially go for a picnic, there are several picnic spots you can explore. Consider the banks of the Seine, the Canal St-Martin, and formal gardens like Jardin du Luxembourg and Place des Vosges.
Top Neighborhoods to Stay While in Paris, France
Paris city is large, and selecting the best neighborhood to live in as a digital nomad can be a daunting experience. The city is divided into 20 arrondissements organized in a circular layout. The best neighborhood recommendations include:
Montmartre
The Montmartre neighborhood is a little bit away from the city’s geographical area, but it’s a great place to stay if you want to fully experience the heart of Parisian culture. It’s also referred to as the most romantic neighborhood in Paris. You’ll love it here, from original cobblestones to outstanding stone houses emanating a bohemian culture. The neighborhood is perfect if you want affordable housing with a quiet village atmosphere.
Montparnasse
Montparnasse is a vibrant Paris neighborhood soaked in both artistic and literary history. It features the only skyscraper in the capital – the Montparnasse Tower. If you’re culturally curious, the Montparnasse neighborhood offers plenty, from architecture to art, theater, markets, parks, and restaurants.
Le Marais
If you value a central location and a place with an international community, the Le Marais neighborhood is an excellent choice. You’ll easily access upscale shopping boutiques, independent eateries, and outstanding nightlife. Even though it’s not the most affordable neighborhood, Le Marais is within walking distance of the top sightseeing areas around Paris, so it’s a great choice if you don’t plan to stay in the city for long. The cost is worth it if you want to be close to all the action and entertainment.
Quartier Latin
The Quartier Latin neighborhood is popular among students and young professionals who want to appreciate various opportunities for networking. It’s a great neighborhood for digital nomads because rent prices are reasonable, and there’s access to many amenities, including affordable eateries, shops, restaurants, and bars.
Best Weekend Trips to Take From Paris, France
Paris features a rich history and culture, and it’s always a fulfilling experience for any digital nomad passionate about traveling and enjoying new experiences. When you visit Paris, these are the best weekend trips to take:
A Trip From Paris to Fontainebleau
A day’s trip to Château de Fontainebleau is about 40 minutes from Paris if you use a train. The palace began as a medieval castle before being converted into its current form. A trip to Château de Fontainebleau palace will not be complete if you don’t sample a few local specialties. For instance, if you’re a cheese lover, you should try out the signature Le Fontainebleau at the Fromagerie Barthelemy. If you love the outdoors, a carriage ride in the palace or a scooter ride into the forest will make your trip fun and exciting.
Versailles Palace
A weekend trip to Versailles palace should not miss on your to-do list when you visit Paris. The palace and surrounding grounds represent architecture dating back to the 17th century. You can also explore the Queen’s Hamlet, where she used to escape to from the palace life’s humdrum. You will need a special ticket for your trip, and you can access the palace from most major Metro stations throughout the city.
Brussels
Paris is located at the center of western Europe, allowing you to explore other major cities around conveniently. Take a train ride, enjoy a 30-minute mesmerizing scenic journey, and explore Brussels – the capital of Belgium and a town rich in history, delectable cuisine, and outstanding baroque architecture.
Lyon
Using a fast train, you can enjoy a trip to the lovely Lyon city – a culture vulture city. The city offers everything, from museums to local shopping specialties and restaurants. If you’re a cinema fan, you’ll enjoy exploring the fascinating museum devoted to famous Lyon residents – Louis Lumière and Auguste, who were the first filmmakers in the world.
