Questions about Paris; going for eleven days in September?

Question

My first question is about the spending money I should be briniging (in American money). I've never gone anywhere for eleven days, let alone to Paris, so I have no clue what would be reasonable. Also, will you get a better exchange rate by using a credit card or by using ATM's in the city?

My second question is about the weather there in mid-late September. Should I be bringing summery clothing in addition to some warmer clothing? Thanks!

Answer 1

If you're hoping to save money, buy multiple day passes for both the Metro and for site-seeing. Go to museums on Sunday when they're free and check on the day of the week that they're closed (used to be Tuesday) so you don't waste time and energy.

I was in Paris for 6 weeks and didn't spend $20 over what we needed for food and entrance fees and the metro. Buying stuff is an overrated tourist occupation. Lots of things you see are cheaper in the states (I was told this by an Italian who was going wild in a mall.) so be really careful about what you buy.

Answer 2

There is no blanket rule as to whether ATM cards or credit cards give you the better exchange rate, it depends on the individual bank.

The overall exchange rate will depend on their exchange rate plus any transaction fees charged. Last I checked, many Visa & MC providers were charging 3%, AmEx 2% (but their overall exchange rate was WORSE), and Capital One 1%. ATM cards typically offer a worse rate because they tack on high transaction fees BUT you should check with your bank. Some large U.S. banks have relationships with certain foreign banks, allowing their accountholders to withdraw money FEE-FREE. I have found that on my fee-free ATM withdrawals, the overall exchange rate was practically the same as on my credit card.

Assuming that your credit card charges a typical 1-3% fee, I'd recommend you use your card instead of withdrawing a large sum of money at one time to save on a per-withdrawal fee. French people don't carry wads of cash, but tourists do, and pickpockets know this!

A handy thing to do is to order euros from your local bank or AAA office (if you have a AAA membership) before you leave, assuming the rate is reasonable (though it won't be as good as on your credit card). This way you won't have to wait in line at the airport exchange bureau like everyone else!

The weather this year in France has been freakish compared to the last few years - fairly mild winter, spring came unusually early and July has been pleasant. (What's this world coming to?!? lol) So I'm hesitant to dole out predictions... but mid-late September can be hot (there can be 80F days) to quite cool (50s F). If I were you, I'd bring both lightweight & warmer clothing, but nothing full-on summer beachwear (which the Parisians shun... even in summer!).

EDIT: Oh I forgot to say that many places won't accept a credit card below a minimum purchase of say, 10-15 euro, so you'll need cash for small purchases. The amount you'll spend daily really depends on what your spending habits are like. Not including shopping, you could easily spend 90 euro/day having 2 nice meals, drinks, museums, metro, but if you're a mindful spender (particularly of your eating/drinking habits), this can be 50 euro/day. Oh and unlike in the states, French restos are very used to people paying their individual share by credit card, so this is another way you don't have to carry cash around! Last thing, American Express is NOT widely accepted in France, just in some tourist-oriented places.

Answer 3

Before you go make sure to call your credit card company and ask them what fees are associated with purchasing in a foreign market.  Some will charge as high as $10 per transaction.  Paris is expensive but you are on vacation so enjoy it.  Shopping in Paris is crazy expensive with the dollar being valued as so little.  Make sure the things you buy in the malls are things that you cant buy here, otherwise its a waste of money.  I am quite excited for you, Paris is one of the most beautiful places in this world.  Make sure to see montmartre its the most scenic area in Paris (in my opinion).

Answer 4

Concerning your credit card, check with your bank about the exchange rate and commissions !!!!

Concerning the weather, it depends.......... Currently, it's like winter in Paris. But in september, it can be sunny and warm.  It's pretty hard to say what the weather will be like !!!!

Now............ If you really wanna enjoy your time in Paris ( restaurant, night out, shopping, visiting...)..... I would say around 120$ per day !!!

Of course, it can be a lot less....... It all depends on your budget and what you wanna do.

And, The Euro is a lot stronger than the US dollar......You have to think about that also !!

Answer 5

Use your credit card where possible. This will generally get you the best exchange rate. Check with your credit card issuer to determine what fee's they charge for foregin exchange transactions, some are better than others. I find that Capitol One usually has the best deal for its customers. You might also want to alert your credit card issuer that you will be in Paris since some companies security measures will flag cards that suddenly start being used in another country.

Of course you can't use a credit card for everything and for purchases requiring cash the ATM is sually the best way to go.

In September the average high temperature is 70 degrees farenheit and the average low is 55 farenheit. The average rainfall is or 2.1 inches for the month. You should be prepared for the possiblity of wide temperature swings and so yes, its a good idea to have a summer outfit with you.

Answer 6

I would use the ATMs. I would take at least $100 per day to eat without including shopping. You ARE going to see things you want to buy!

Mid-late Sept. will start to cool off but be prepared for some remaining heat.