Things Not to Do in Paris as a Tourist and What to Do Instead!

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Paris is the definition of everything Boujee, chic, and classy. Being a top-notch holiday destination, there are numerous things to do in the City of Lights.

There’s the Eiffel Tower—a French symbol—the Seine, the Champs Elysees, and more to name. But what are the things not to do in Paris? Especially as a tourist nonetheless?

After all, the last thing you want in a different country is to land in trouble.

We totally get it!

That’s why, in the following discussion, we are going to talk about all the little too big things not to do in Paris. Much like a go-to book of rules when in Paris. Ultimately, saving you from potential harm—and embarrassment, or faux pas, as the French call it.

Read on to find out!

Things Not to Do in Paris as a Tourist: Cultural Aspects

The French are big on their gestures and etiquette. Hence, it’s always best to research them and connect with the locals properly.

Here are some of the top things that you should not do in Paris as a tourist:

Don’t Skip Basic French Etiquette

First things first, let’s talk about manners. Parisians appreciate a little politeness, so a simple “Bonjour” (hello) or “Merci” (thank you) can go a long way.

Also, don’t forget those magical words – “s’il vous plaît” (please).

Why? Well, it’s the golden ticket to getting what you want with a smile. Besides, it’s considered rude and ignorant to forget to address people, no matter where you are in France.

The Myth of the Rude Parisian

Don’t assume Parisians are rude just because no one seems to smile much at you. French people tend to be reserved with strangers. As a result, you may not see a smile, unlike in America, where people smile more.

Hence, try to be understanding and use French phrases frequently; it’ll seem natural.

Don’t Be Noisy in Public Places

Don’t use your outside voice. This is high on the list of things not to do in Paris as a tourist. It’s hard to get used to, but in the city of Paris, people tend to speak very softly.

So try to keep the noise level down to avoid disapproval, whether you’re in a café, park, or museum.

Embrace the Cliches of Paris

Don’t be annoyed at the classic cliches surrounding Paris. It would simply not be the same without the Eiffel Tower, baguettes and berets.

Therefore, the smart call is to let yourself enjoy it. Try the croissants, put some red on your lip, and buy as many kitsch souvenirs as you wish. No one will judge because clichés exist for a reason – they’re absolutely magical!

Don’t Believe the Expensive Tag of Paris

Contrary to popular belief, Paris doesn’t have to break the bank. Sure, there are luxurious boutiques and gourmet restaurants, but there are also plenty of budget-friendly options as well.

Hence, don’t get tricked into thinking every little thing in Paris is pricey. Instead, opt for the more local brands for true Parisian fashion. You’ll be surprised to see that there’s something for every wallet size in the City of Light.

Don’t Assume Paris is Only for Lovers

It’s easy to think of the City of Love as a couples-only area, as its famous moniker seems to suggest. But guess what? Paris isn’t just for couples. Whether you’re solo, with friends, or even family, there’s plenty to see and do beyond the lovey-dovey stuff.

So, make sure to explore the lovely attractions, shop all you want, make friends, and go on all the tours in Paris. That’s what Paris is really about.

Don’t Touch Anything without Asking

Last but not least, a golden rule: don’t touch anything without asking first, despite how it is elsewhere.

Believe it or not, it’s one of the most unusual things not to do in Paris. Besides, it’s a sign of respect for the item and the space, and it’ll help you avoid any awkward encounters.

What to do? Well, get the seller’s attention and point to the object. The same goes for (undoubtedly) any local home you’re invited to.

Transportation Mistakes to Be Aware of in Paris

If you do your homework ahead of time, you’ll get the best deals on transportation effortlessly and save a lot of money. They are as follows:

Don’t Visit Paris During Peak Season

First off, avoid the crowds if you can. Sure, Paris is magical in peak season, but battling through throngs of tourists can dim that magic pretty fast.

Such as, you might have to pay double the price only to be whisked away while glancing at the Mona Lisa. The one you had to queue for hours too, thanks to peak season.

Hence, always try to aim for a shoulder season (April to May and September to November) visit if possible, and you’ll thank yourself later.

Don’t Stuck Only in Taxi or Rental Cars

Excited to know how to get around Paris? Well, it may seem logical to rent a car, hail a taxi in Paris, or call an Uber to get around. But with the heavy Parisian traffic, you may want to rethink that, as they can lower your budget to a great extent, which you will certainly not like.

What to do? Try accommodating yourself near the much more inexpensive and convenient Metro to save a lot more.

Don’t Use the Metro in Rush Hour

Avoid the metro system during hours when people go to work or return back. It can be very stuffy and you may feel claustrophobic.

Consequently, pickpocketing is very common in these situations. Try using it at non-time-sensitive times of the day, save for 8 am – 9 am and 6 pm – 7:30 pm.

Don’t Buy Single Trip Tickets for Paris Metro

Single-trip tickets might seem convenient, but they can add up fast. Consider getting a pass instead; it’ll save you both time and money, leaving more euros for croissants and café au lait.

Don’t Pack Heavy

Avoid packing heavy, especially when you’re going to spend the whole day visiting tourist sights. You may get exhausted just by carrying your bag upstairs and through narrow gaps, which are frequent.

Instead, consider packing very lightly and only carrying essentials with you in a small, easy-to-carry bag. It will be the best call, without any doubt!

Don’t Forget to Take a Stroll

Try not to use too much transportation as you travel around the city.

The French locals love to stroll about, or as they like to call it, Flâner.

It’s arguably the best way to experience Paris authentically, especially since almost everything is within a few minutes walk of almost anywhere.

Things to Be Careful of in Paris: Better Safe than Sorry

Despite being laden with security, it’s always best to be vigilant and cautious of your surroundings in a foreign country. Such as the following:

Pickpocket Alert: Don’t Lose Sense of Your Belongings

Avoid leaving your things out and about or loosely hanging from your hand or waist. It’s highly common to get your phone and other valuables stolen in Paris due to the large number of unsuspecting tourists.

Often these are well-organized groups too, so just be watchful, but not paranoid.

Scams Are Real: Don’t Ignore Your Guts

Tourist traps are highly common in France, targeting gullible tourists. If you don’t do your research well or learn from the locals, you may get ripped off easily.

Hence, try to communicate with locals as much as possible or pay attention to where most of them go for groceries, lunch, etc.

Don’t Avoid Being Vigilant

Of the things not to do in Paris, France, a very important one is to not be vigilant and watchful of your surroundings.

If something feels amiss, it’s in your best interest to inquire about it more. And if you’re highly unsure, it’s best to remove yourself from the situation.

Don’t Shy Away from Asking for Help

Don’t assume people won’t help you if you need it. There are very helpful locals who will point you in the right direction or call the police for you.

Of course, this isn’t guaranteed for everyone, but when you need help, definitely ask for it for your own benefit.

How to Look and Act Like a Local

What to do in Paris as a tourist? Act like you’re not one. Eccentric outfits make you an easy target for scammers.

A little effort can go a long way, and Parisian fashion is very easygoing and chic. Plus, try speaking as much French as possible, and look confident.

Things Not to Do While Exploring Paris

While you discover all the crazy things to do in Paris, it’s wise to keep some valuable pointers in mind:

Don’t Over-Document Anything You See

Avoid the mistake of documenting every little thing. You will get too caught up in recording memories rather than actually making them. It’s not every day you see the Arc de Triomphe, but the same goes for experiencing it.

Instead, set a limit for pictures and don’t exceed it for each tourist area.

Don’t Spend Hours in Lines

Avoid long lines for an attraction, be it the Louvre or even smaller museums.

Instead, buy tickets beforehand online so you don’t have to wait for hours. This is time you could spend discovering more of Paris. Hence, use it wisely.

Don’t Underestimate the Geography of Paris

Paris is huge and even though a lot of the attractions are within easy walking distance, you will get confused.

Instead, bring a map or a travel guidebook with you that shows clear directions to each location.

Don’t Forget About Museum Manners

The French take their art seriously. Be it at the Musée de la Vie or the newly restored Musée Carnavalet, take your pictures responsibly.

Avoid disturbing other viewers and try to genuinely appreciate the art by focusing on it. Maybe it’s the colors, or the subject—whatever interests you.

Don’t Expect That Bohemian Vibe at the Left Bank

According to popular belief, the Left Bank doesn’t show off as many Bohemian vibes as you’d expect it to nowadays. As much as it has been swarmed with intellectual philosophers in the past, things have changed.

For true Bohemian charm, try checking out the artistic Montmartre!

Don’t Rush Your Paris Experience

There are some of the most beautiful places in Paris, mid-size museums, and shopping neighborhoods that you want to spend your sweet time in. So, don’t rush into everything; rather, try taking things slow.

Don’t Miss a Dinner Cruise on the Seine

For a truly magical experience, hop aboard a dinner cruise along the Seine River.

Savor gourmet French cuisine as you glide past illuminated landmarks like the Notre Dame Cathedral and the Musée d’Orsay. It’s a feast for the senses that you won’t soon forget.

Related Post: Seine River Night Cruise Without Dinner

Find Hidden Gems and Set off on Off-the-Beaten-Paths

Don’t leave Paris without visiting the lesser-known gems. A dinner at Le Jules Verne restaurant and a trip to the Marais and the Champs Elysees aren’t all there is to Paris.

Try places like the Palais Royal, Parc des Buttes Chaumont, and even Rue Beaurepaire, you won’t be disappointed.

Things Not to Do While Dining in Paris

Here are some non-touristy things to do in Paris while dining, which you will thank us for informing you of:

Don’t Book Last-Minutes in Restaurants

Avoid thinking that you can waltz into the restaurant and choose the table of your choice. Many book a table of their desires weeks to months beforehand, especially in high-end restaurants.

Whichever type you go to, if reservations are mandated, do so as early as possible for flexibility.

Do Not Dine Near Popular Attractions

As outrageous as it sounds, that is true. Popular attractions with pristine views of the city will have you pay your plane ticket’s worth for lunch or worse, dinner.

Instead, visit the attractions for experience and head to one of Paris’s many cozy eateries at more reasonable prices.

Don’t Drink or Eat on the Go

It’s heavily frowned upon to eat as you walk, as the French like to savor their meals with loved ones. Also, don’t be surprised to earn some frowns as you stroll with a baguette sandwich.

Instead, sit down for a bit at a bench or coffee shop and savor the meal.

Steer Clear of Visitor Traps

Don’t approach street vendors or peddlers. And with increasing pickpocketing, certainly don’t let someone bump into you.

Keep your wallet and phone in front of you and on you at all times. Avoid touristy restaurants near local attractions. And lastly, don’t stick out by dressing like a tourist.

Don’t Waste Money on Michelin-Starred Dinner

Without any doubt, Michelin-starred meals are one of the most classy things to do in Paris. But admittedly, it’s an unnecessary splurge. That’s unless you’re traveling to try different foods.

However, we recommend trying local favorites for the best food in Paris, like at Montmartre or the Latin Quarter.

Don’t Forget to Explore Beyond the Famous Menus

Don’t limit yourself to just the popular menus when you eat in Paris. While they have excellent food choices listed, they may oscillate around a limited range of flavors. Sometimes they may even be overpriced.

So, the smart call is to try more reasonable menus that even Michelin-starred restaurants offer, like Le Jules Verne.

Don’t Eat Salad Before Main Meal

Don’t make this mistake while eating, unless you’ve ordered a salad compose.

Green salad is served before the meal starts but is meant to be eaten after the meal.

That is, salad is eaten as a palate cleanser in France before the cheese or the dessert to aid the digestion process.

Don’t Ask Plates for Your Bread

Don’t be surprised if you see your bread being served on the table.

It’s the norm in France to keep the bread on the table and break it over your meal, not slice it. When you tear a piece from the bread, keep it on the left side of your plate.

Don’t Wait for the Bill or Linger

Avoid waiting for the bill after your meal, expecting your waiter to bring it to you.

It’s not because you’re being ignored; your waiter simply doesn’t want to disturb your meal. This is because it’s common to eat in a leisurely manner. Just say, “L’addition, s’il vous plaît (The check, please)”.

Don’t Pay for Water

Don’t waste money buying water.

Instead, during your stay, ask for a ‘carafe d’eau’ or tap water, which is perfectly healthy and free of charge. Or you can use the Wallace Fountain, a public drinking fountain while traveling around Paris.

Don’t Do These Things While Shopping in Paris

When venturing into the many fabulous shopping neighborhoods of Paris, keep in mind the below-mentioned crucial things:

Avoid the Fashion Faux Pas

Parisians have a suberb sense of style, and they can spot a fashion disaster from a mile away. So, unless you want to be the subject of discreetly raised eyebrows, avoid any outfit that screams “tourist” too loudly. Keep it classy, keep it chic.

Because when you stand out as a tourist, you’re a prime target for scammers.

Don’t Shop Too Much in Champs-Elysées

Avoid buying anything here, unless you want to spend double of what you would probably spend back at home. The stores here are chock-full of international brands found everywhere. Much like a tourist trap!

Instead, try Marchés aux Puces or La Villette, a much more appealing alternative. You’ll find better shops with a smaller crowd.

Don’t Plan a Sunday Shopping Spree

Avoid this mistake of planning, as Sundays are when pretty much everything is closed up. You won’t be able to access a lot of the amenities you usually would, so try getting your shopping done before Sunday.

Don’t Shy Away from Buying Souvenirs

Don’t limit yourself by thinking it’s too cliche. You’re on a Paris trip, so it’s only natural you’d want some things to take back as a reminder!

Buy as many souvenirs as you’d like, but be wary of tourist traps.

Don’t Miss Out on Accommodation

As with any other trip, finding the perfect place to rest your head becomes a crucial part of the adventure. Here’s the lowdown on what to avoid:

Don’t Stay Away from the Center

Don’t assume that central Paris is too expensive and that it should be avoided. Booking a hotel too far from the center would mean that you’d miss out on the city’s local attractions. Instead, book as close to the center as you can.

Don’t Book a Cheap Hotel

Sure, budget travel is all the rage, but skimping on accommodation in Paris might not be the best idea. Remember, you get what you pay for.

Plus, opting for a dirt-cheap hostel might mean sacrificing comfort, cleanliness, and even safety. Splurge a little (within reason, of course) for a cozy, secure place where you can recharge after a day of exploring. Such as, you can try themed boutique hotels for the best Parisian vibes.

Don’t Book Upon Arrival

Whether you’re solo-traveling or with family, avoid making this mistake. It may result in serious last-minute reservation issues because hotels don’t always have free rooms.

Instead, book way ahead while you’re planning your visit and buy the tickets for the safest measure.

Where Not to Stay in Paris

The 10th, 18th, and 19th arrondissements are areas of Paris to avoid. These are fine during the day, but nighttime shows disruptive attitudes and crime rates rise. The 19th especially sees this problem, and the 18th is known for over-charging.

So, you should know where to stay in Paris to get the most worthwhile experience. Hence, go for visitor-friendly areas and stay cautious of your belongings.

Additional Tips for a Safe & Sound Trip to Paris

Most of what areas of Paris to avoid, what not to wear, and what not to do have been covered. Here are some additional tips to keep in mind:

• Visit the Louvre on the first Sunday of each month for free entry.
• Try to dress like the locals to avoid standing out as a target for pickpockets.
• Keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas to avoid falling victim to petty theft.
• Familiarize yourself with emergency numbers like 112 (European emergency number) and 17 (French police number).
• Avoid isolated areas at night.
• Don’t keep your phone on the table of restaurants while eating.
• Don’t overtip or wave fervently to get the waiter’s attention.
• Have a reliable way to stay connected, whether it’s a local SIM card or an international data plan.
• Do carry extra cash on you.
• Don’t carry too much baggage while exploring.
• Trust your gut and don’t hesitate to remove yourself from any uncomfortable situations.

Concluding Words

We know all these rules and tips seem like too much and you may be worried about slipping up. But don’t worry, it’s quite simple once you get the hang of it, which doesn’t take long!

And when you know what things not to do in Paris, you’ll be subconsciously wary of these alongside your conscious efforts. That being said, don’t forget to enjoy and make lovely memories in one of the most romantic cities in the world.

Bon Voyage!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)