Is Paris safe? Tips and tricks for first-timers

Thinking of a trip to Paris? Don’t worry, Paris is safe—as long as you know the city and are always aware of your surroundings.

We’ve rounded a list of tips and tricks for first-timers to help you travel safely and enjoy what the French capital has to offer.

Petty street crimes like pickpocketing and scams are the most common crimes in Paris, especially near major tourist attractions like the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre. The culprits often work in groups and in highly organized ways.

You might run into a stranger trying to tie a “free” friendship bracelet around your wrist, or harassing you for a signature on a petition or for donations. If you’re unlucky, you might find your valuables missing after the encounter. If approached, never engage, walk away and make sure that your belongings are still with you. Always be mindful of your surroundings and keep valuables in less accessible spots like in a cross-body bag in front of you.

One of the best ways to get around Paris is by public transport but be careful during peak hours, especially between 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., when the Metro is crowded and pickpockets strike.

When buying tickets, be sure to get them at official channels like the ticket offices or machines at Metro stations. While the cheap prices are tempting, illegal street sellers may try to offer you tickets that aren’t valid. Watch out for fake inspectors too, who may ask to see your ticket and hand out a fine which requires immediate cash payment. Official inspectors will be in uniform and you’ll have the option of paying the fine by card or cash. For more tips, check out our guide to the Paris Metro.

While there aren’t many no-go areas in Paris, some neighborhoods in Paris are safer than others. Consider Le Marais, one of the city’s oldest neighborhoods which runs across the 3rd and 4th arrondissements, and known for its narrow cobblestone alleyways and hidden courtyards. Saint-Germain-des-Prés in the 6th arrondissement near Luxembourg Gardens is also great for families, with its terraced cafés and art galleries. Still unsure? Here are some of the best arrondissements to stay in Paris.

Some areas tend to be more prone to pickpocketing at night, such as major train stations like Gare du Nord, Gare de l’Est and Châtelet–Les Halles as well as the northern 18th and 19th arrondissements.

But nightlife is still safe and enjoyable if you visit the right places. Stick to major tourist hotspots like Pigalle, the “red-light district” of Paris. Located at the foot of Montmartre hill, you can find the famous Moulin Rouge and other theaters, clubs and bars in the area.

Protests are not uncommon in Paris so you should always monitor the local media for updates. If there are protests going on, steer clear of the affected areas as much as possible and be prepared for disruptions to public transport.

Transport strikes are usually announced ahead of time so be sure to keep up to date with the latest information on the official RATP website. And don’t let these inconveniences affect your exploration of Paris. Flexibility is key—don’t be worried to switch up your plans as there’s so much to do in Paris—you’ll never run out.

Always book tours with reliable operators that you can trust. Read traveler reviews and check tour ratings on sites like Tripadvisor to help you decide.

There are loads of tours you can choose from, whether it’s a food and wine tour in Montmartre or a walking and metro tour of the city.

Paris is wonderful for solo travelers and it can be safer to stay at communal living spaces like hostels where you can meet and mingle with like-minded travelers. You can also sightsee in groups by joining walking tours or bus tours like the Big Bus Paris Hop-On-Hop-Off Tour.