It might sound like I’m talking about a third of the Earth, but for people living near the center of Paris, parking might as well be called home. As the city’s emblematic tower rises above its surrounding buildings, it served as a landmark for many years. Even now, after more than one million people have passed by on foot or bike since the French capital was opened to the public in 1830, there are still plenty of places to park. Though some of the city’s historic boulevards have been trampled and some lots are nearly full (hello, line-dancing!), Paris has some great options for rental car extras. Here’s what you need to know about parking near the…
What’s the deal with parking?
When Paris was first built, in 1569, it was planned as a world’s fair. In the days before modern parking lots and space for both cars and people was at a premium, parking was a way of life. It was even essential for many of the monuments and gardens that make up Paris’ history. Now, you can find plenty of spaces to park in the city, but they aren’t exactly cheap. That said, there are plenty of ways to pay for parking near the city hall and the Eiffel Tower. Some places like the boulevards of Paris (Champs-Elysées, Porte d’Iéna, etc.) charge a fee for the privilege of letting you park. Others, like the rue de la Thompson in where the Eiffel Tower is located, charge a flat fee for all vehicular access. And, of course, there are many, many other methods to pay for parking.
Tips on how to find plenty of space
Here are some tips for finding space for a car or two in Paris: Offer a first offer: If you’re in a rush and can’t make a second offer, make sure you know who you’re looking for. If you know you’re looking for a particular car, try to work with the seller to find a space that meets their needs. If you know you’re looking for a specific type of car, try to work with the seller to find a space that offers the type of space they need. Limit contact: Don’t put pressure on sellers to make a final offer. Ask them about their preferences, but contact the people you’re dealing with only if you know you want something specific. Have a checklist: Make sure you have all the information you need to make an offer before making an effort. If you’re unsure whether or not someone is available, ask. You never know for sure.
renting a car
Paris has a few places to rent cars. The largest car-rental network in Europe, CarRentals, runs through the Eiffel Tower, but most of the parking lots and car-parks near the Eiffel Tower are full. For more information, visit places.carrentals.com. Once you find a spot, make sure you have the proper paperwork ready. You don’t want to end up with a broken car when the dealers don’t return your call.
advice for finding parking near the Superdome
If you’re in front of a parking lot near the Eiffel Tower or the boulevards of Paris, there are a few things you can do to help yourself find a space. Offer a first offer: If you’re in a rush and can’t make a second offer, make sure you know who you’re looking for. If you know you’re looking for a particular car, try to work with the seller to find a space that meets their needs. If you know you’re looking for a type of car, try to work with the seller to find a space that offers the type of space they need. Limit contact: Don’t put pressure on sellers to make a final offer. Ask them about their preferences, but contact the people you’re dealing with only if you know you want something specific. Have a checklist: Make sure you have all the information you need to make an offer before making an effort. If you’re unsure whether or not someone is available, ask. You never know for sure.
tricks to help you find parking fast
For faster parking, use the following tricks to find a spot: Make a plan: Before you get in your car, plan out where you’ll park. If you’re going to a Performance Drive, Forêt or RER-IX, you’ll park on the street or in a converted garage. If you’re going to the Eiffel Tower, you’ll park in a nearby park or garage. Camera in hand: If you have a camera with you, take some pictures of your parking lot so you can remember where you’re going and what you’re driving around. This will help you find the best spots.
Final words: Can Paris Drive?
It’s pretty amazing how quickly Paris can rise above the crowds and become something more than a vacation destination. The city is full of amazing places to visit, from the Eiffel Tower to the Etoile d’or to the Louvre. You can find parking near the Eiffel Tower, but there’s no need to stress about it. Just stay calm and patient, and you’ll be fine.