Ultimate Guide to a Weekend in Paris with Your Small Dog: Luxury Travel Tips and Must-See Attractions

Photo by Anthony DELANOIX on Unsplash

Bonjour, Paris!

It was a crisp Friday morning when I decided to take an impromptu weekend trip to Paris with my trusty companion, Bella — a sprightly little Yorkie who’s more worldly than most people I know. With just 72 hours to spare, we were on a mission to experience the best of Paris without breaking the bank, all while ensuring Bella enjoyed the city of lights as much as I did.

But traveling to France with a pet requires a bit of planning, and if you’re anything like me, you don’t leave things to chance, especially when it comes to your furry friend.

Traveling to France with Your Dog: The Basics

First things first, let’s talk about what you need to know if you’re bringing your small dog to France. Trust me, there’s no feeling quite like walking along the Seine with your canine companion, but before you get there, a few hoops to jump through:

1. Pet Passport and Microchip: Before you even think about booking that flight on Skyscanner (the best site for finding deals, by the way), make sure your dog has a pet passport. This is essentially proof that your dog is microchipped and vaccinated. The microchip is a must — it needs to be ISO 11784/11785 compliant. If your dog doesn’t have this, don’t panic. Most vets can insert the proper chip in a quick visit.
2. Rabies Vaccination: Your pet needs to be vaccinated against rabies at least 21 days before your departure. This isn’t a recommendation; it’s the law. Also, ensure that this vaccination is noted in the pet passport by a licensed vet.
3. Health Certificate: If you’re coming from outside the EU, a health certificate from a vet is required within 10 days of your travel date. Your vet should be familiar with this process, but it’s always good to call ahead and confirm.

Photo by wooof woof on Unsplash

With Bella’s documents in hand and a suitcase packed with essentials (and treats), we set off for Paris. The flight was surprisingly easy. I’ve always found that searching for pet-friendly airlines on Skyscanner is a breeze. A little pro tip: be sure to check the airline’s specific rules for in-cabin pets to avoid any last-minute surprises at the gate.

Luxury on a Budget: Staying in Style in Paris

Now, let’s talk about accommodations. Traveling in style doesn’t mean you have to empty your bank account. Paris is brimming with luxury hotels that often have incredible deals — if you know where to look.

Tip 1: Timing is Everything

Bella and I stayed at the Shangri-La Paris, a place I’d always dreamed of. How did I snag this five-star experience on a budget? Simple. We booked for the weekend, which is often cheaper than weekdays. Business travelers are gone, and hotels lower prices to fill rooms. It’s also a great idea to travel during the shoulder season (late spring or early autumn) when the weather is lovely, but the city isn’t overflowing with tourists.

Tip 2: Loyalty Pays Off

As an advocate of the American Express Gold Card, let me tell you — those points can really add up. With just 90,000 points for signing up, you can get a free night or an upgrade that transforms your stay from good to unforgettable. Plus, using your card at restaurants abroad gives you extra points, and trust me, you’ll want to eat your way through Paris.

Tip 3: Direct Booking with a Twist

Always book directly with the hotel. Why? You’re more likely to get perks like free breakfast or a room upgrade. And if you’re really looking to save, consider booking a room with a refundable rate. These rates can sometimes drop closer to your arrival date, and if they do, you can rebook at the lower price.

Three Must-Visit Restaurants in Paris

Paris isn’t just about sights; it’s about tastes. If you have a sweet tooth like me, or you’re just looking for an authentic Parisian experience, here are three restaurants you can’t miss:

1. L’Avenue: Nestled in the heart of the Champs-Élysées, this chic eatery is not only pet-friendly but also perfect for people-watching. Order the truffle risotto, and you won’t be disappointed. Bella loved the ambiance, too — every waiter stopped to pet her!
2. Café de Flore: One of the oldest and most iconic cafes in Paris, it’s a spot steeped in history. A morning spent here with a croissant and a café au lait is a Parisian rite of passage. Plus, they have a lovely outdoor terrace where Bella enjoyed basking in the sun.
3. Le Comptoir du Relais: For something truly local, this bistro offers classic French cuisine with a modern twist. The beef tartare is to die for. And yes, it’s another spot where Bella was welcomed with open arms.

Three Must-See Sights in Paris

With only a weekend in Paris, you have to prioritize. Here are my top three must-see spots:

1. The Eiffel Tower at Sunset: I know, I know. It’s cliché, but trust me — there’s a reason. Bella and I took the elevator to the second floor just as the sun was setting. Seeing Paris bathed in golden light, with Bella’s little tail wagging by my side, was a memory I’ll cherish forever.
2. Montmartre and the Sacré-Cœur Basilica: This neighborhood is all about charm. We spent an afternoon wandering the cobblestone streets, and when we reached the top, the view of Paris took our breath away. Plus, the artists in the square just outside the Basilica painted a portrait of Bella that I’ll always treasure.
3. A Stroll Along the Seine: Paris is a city best explored on foot, and there’s no better way to soak it all in than with a stroll along the Seine. We started at the Notre Dame Cathedral and walked to the Louvre. It was magical, and Bella loved every minute of it.

Bonus Adventure: Hopping Over to London

Feeling adventurous? Why not take the train to London? The Eurostar is quick and convenient, and guess what? Dogs are welcome too!

Traveling with Your Dog on the Eurostar:

1. Book in Advance: You’ll need to call Eurostar’s contact center to book your pet’s spot on the train. There’s a small fee, but it’s totally worth it to have your furry friend by your side.
2. Pet Carrier: Your dog needs to be in a carrier for the journey, so make sure it’s comfortable. I brought Bella’s favorite blanket and a toy to keep her calm.
3. Arrive Early: Plan to arrive at least 45 minutes before your departure to allow time for pet check-in. The Eurostar staff were incredibly friendly and made the process smooth.

We arrived in London just in time for a late lunch, and Bella, ever the trooper, seemed ready for another adventure.

Final Thoughts

A weekend in Paris with your small dog doesn’t have to be a pipe dream. With a bit of planning, savvy travel tips, and an eye for deals, you can enjoy the luxury of Paris without the hefty price tag. Remember, the key to affordable luxury is knowing where to look and how to maximize every opportunity.

Until next time here’s to smooth skies, good company, a journey full of happy memories. I’m your Travel Hack Guide to affordable luxury tips. Catch you later. Peace

Travel Hack Guy

ZachusTravel.com & YouTube.com/zachustravel

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