Paris
Pocketguide

Fromageries

Laurent Dubois (multiple locations) and Fromagerie Barthélemy (51 Rue de Grenelle, 7e) are world-class. Tell them when you're eating - they'll pick the perfect affinage. If you work with cheese, mention it - they'll take you seriously and probably open something special.

Wine shops to browse

La Cave des Papilles (35 Rue Daguerre, 14e) - outstanding natural wine selection. Caves Augé (116 Bd Haussmann, 8e) - oldest wine shop in Paris, since 1850. Le Verre Volé Comptoir (near the bar) sells bottles to take home.

Phone

EU roaming - EU/EEA phone plans work at no extra cost. Download BEFORE you fly: Bonjour RATP (buy metro tickets -> Apple Wallet), Citymapper (navigation), IDF Mobilités (backup). Google Maps offline for Paris.

Tipping

Service compris by law. Round up at cafés (nearest euro). 5-10% at dinner for exceptional service. Not obligatory, always appreciated.

Meal timing

Lunch 12-14h (kitchens close at 2pm - don't wait). Dinner service from 19h30. Most specialty coffee closes 17:00-18:00. Natural wine bars open from 17h-18h for apéro.

Taxis

Bolt or FREE NOW apps. Uber works but often pricier. Never take unmarked cars at CDG - use the official taxi rank or app.

Chinatown (13e)

The 13th arrondissement is Paris's Chinatown - even the McDonald's sign is partly in Chinese. Chinese grocery stores, a Chinese church, Chinese schools, and plenty of good restaurants. See our pick in Hidden Gems.

Emergency

SAMU: 15 / Police: 17 / EU-wide: 112 / Danish Embassy: +33 1 77 69 47 00 (77 Av. Marceau, 16e)