Chapter 1: Relocating to Paris - Your Guide 

Are you looking to relocate to Paris anytime soon? You may be travelling to one of the world’s most beautiful cities for work and other professional commitments. However, there are several other aspects worth keeping in mind. 

Accommodation in Paris: 

There are numerous options available for long-term accommodation in Paris. From studio units to one and two bed apartments, there are choices aplenty for those seeking to stay put in the French capital for longer periods of time. You may come across serviced apartments that are equipped with the best amenities and facilities in addition to several add-ons that will make life more comfortable. 

At the same time, you can choose between unfurnished and furnished units as well. The latter will give you bedding, plush furnishings, fixtures and more. There are choices available at almost every price point for the utmost convenience of travellers. 

Best Areas to Stay in Paris 

Here are some of the leading neighborhoods to stay in Paris: 

• Louvre - A posh neighbourhood, this one houses the globally acclaimed Louvre Museum and the Tuileries Gardens along with beautiful squares, parks, top restaurants and charming cafes galore. Of course, the Palais Royal is another major landmark in the area. 
• Eiffel-  Another prime locality to stay in, every block in this area offers a splendid view of the Eiffel Tower. It is known for housing affluent French families and expats alike, while offering a spectacular ambiance at night when the tower lights up! Other attractions here include the French Parliament building or Palais Bourbon, Musee Rodin and the Pont Alexandre III bridge. 
• Bastille- The Bastille is one of the famous neighbourhoods in Paris and there is plenty of history in the place. It is also one of the busiest roundabouts in the city, home to attractions like the Opera Bastille and the unique Musée du Fumeur. The Bassin de l’Arsenal is the meeting point for the Canal Saint-Martin and Seine.   
• Marais- Marais is one neighbourhood that offers the best nightlife hotspots, architecture and fashion stores. The Rue du Roi de Sicile and Rue Francois Miron are two of the most fashionable shopping streets in Paris while beautiful museums like Musee Carnavalet and the house of Victor Hugo are must-visits.  
• Champs Elysées- The Champs-Elysees is another historic avenue which is straight out of a movie. It covers almost 2 kilometres, encompassing the entire stretch from Arc de Triomphe to Place de la Concorde. The avenue has only become more spectacular over the years.  Shoppers will have a ball with the plethora of brands on offer while culture lovers will appreciate the Espace Pierre Cardin or Theatre des Champs-Elysées. 
• Montmartre- This neighbourhood has its own charm with lovely cobbled thoroughfares, the amazing Sacre-Coeur basilica and a vantage location on top of the hill. The village-esque ambiance will win you over along with the oodles of artistic inspiration.  Of course, the city views are spectacular from the top of the basilica and you can then explore the lovely vineyards and gardens nearby. 
• Saint Germain- Saint Germain is home to winding lanes which have spawned the growth and development of legends like Hemingway, Picasso and Cocteau. Check out the charming Cafe de Flore and also Les Deux Magots. Stylish book shops like the L’Ecume des Pages and Assouline are major attractions along with St Sulpice Church, Musée Delacroix and the Odeon-Theatre de l’Europe. 

Be it a solo traveller or a family, serviced apartments are undoubtedly the best bet for hassle-free accommodation with all formalities in place. You can find luxuriously designed units that come with everything you need for a comfortable stay including well-equipped kitchens, appliances, flat-screen televisions, air conditioning/heating, Wi-Fi and more. We are here to offer prompt assistance in finding the best accommodation in the city, tailored to your specific needs. 

Local Currency Tips 

Franc is the previous currency used in Paris although it is no longer valid. You will now have to use Euro or € (EUR) for all transactions and as the official currency. Ensure that you are converting in a suitable manner with ample cash to take care of your needs like services, food and more. 

Travel and Guidelines: 

Once you have finalized accommodation in Paris, you should take a closer look at aspects concerning your travel to the city. 

COVID-19 scenario and regulations-

France is one of the European Union countries that have maintained stringent coronavirus related lockdowns. Visitors will have to wear masks at public places, outdoor areas and locations like museums, hotel lobbies, movie theatres and so on. Vaccinated travellers from almost 55 countries, including the residents of all European Union Member States, can enter with proof of vaccination status. 

Unvaccinated travellers from countries in the green list will get entry upon proof of a negative PCR test within 72 hours post arrival or a COVID-19 infection in the last 6 months. All travellers over 12 years of age have to undergo testing anyway. Amber list travellers may enter with vaccination proof or proof of antigen test/PCR test. Vaccinated travellers from red list countries may enter the country. 

The Pass Sanitaire is required by travellers. Buying travel insurance is another important aspect. Check whether it covers medical benefits as well. Traveling within France does not have any restrictions although the Pass Sanitaire is needed for long-distance journeys by coach, plane or train. 

Reaching Paris 

Travellers can fly to Paris which has three key airports, namely the Charles de Gaulle International Airport, Paris-Beauvais Airport and the Orly International Airport. There are trains linking to Paris from several European cities as well. 

Average Rents in Paris 

Average prices per square metre stand at approximately €38 in Paris. It depends on numerous factors like the arrondissement/district, apartment location, floor, amenities, etc. Here are the average figures you need to know: 

• Studio apartments- €800 per month although this may go up to €1,200
• 1 bedroom apartments- €1,000-€3,000 every month. 
• 2 bedroom apartments- €2,200-€4,500. 
• 3 bedroom apartments- €3,000-6,000 
• 4 bedroom apartments-€4,000-12,000

French Visa Guidelines

France is the world’s most visited country as per several reports and it is within the Schengen Area as an EU (European Union) nation. It has a two-tier system of immigration where EFTA/EU citizens may travel without a passport while non-EU/EFTA citizens require visas. Spouses and dependents of EFTA/EU nationals will have similar rights of entry while needing residence permits within 3 months of arrival in the country. Non-EFTA/EU nationals should apply for long-term French visas and residence permits if they wish to reside for more than 90 days. 

A long-stay visa will be required by UK nationals travelling to France with an intention to stay for more than 3 months. These are the three main types of visas in France: 

• Uniform Schengen Visa (Short-Stay Visa)- This covers visits up to 3 months or lesser. 
• VLS-TS (visa de long séjour valant titre de séjour) or Temporary Long-Stay Visa- This is valid for stays up to a year’s time. 
• Long-Stay Visa (Visa de long sejour)- This is applicable for those staying for more than one year in France. 

Need to Learn French? 

Paris is one of the top places in the world to learn French, not only for the reputed institutions but also for the ample practice opportunities. From local cafes and events to chatting with the locals, practice opportunities are abundant indeed! There are innumerable quality institutions to learn French. Here are a few of them: 

• University of Sorbonne
• Cours de Civilisation Francaise de la Sorbonne
• Nikitas Language Abroad Schools
• Cours de Civilisation Française de la Sorbonne 

Paris is one of the best cities to live, work and study in. We help you find the best accommodation in Paris in addition to helping you settle comfortably and peacefully into your new life. Discover the best serviced and furnished apartments in the city and contact us for end-to-end support and guidance.