12+ Avoidable Tourist Mistakes in Paris

As one of the most-visited cities in the world, being a tourist in Paris, especially a first-time visitor, can be intimidating, no matter your level of tourism expertise! ​Check out the top tourist mistakes in Paris - so you can avoid them.

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Concerned about tourist mistakes in Paris?

Who doesn't dream of visiting Paris? Romantic boulevards, cozy cafes, and the world's greatest architecture - all in one gorgeous and historic metropolis...

Stunning sunset views of the Seine (JSB)

Oh, but let's also be honest, along with that enchanting ambiance also comes masses of tourists, huge lines, crowded museums, and perhaps a bit of frustration. Being "an American in Paris" may conjure up images of a classic film, but it may also bring to mind classic "tourist" issues, traps, and mistakes that tourists encounter abroad.

Sainte-Chapelle, Paris

​Looking to take some of the "ugh" out of your trip to Paris and enjoy the city the easier way? Let's discuss some of the top tourists mistakes in Paris -
​and how to avoid them.

Here's how I dress in Paris ->

One of the most intimidating things about Paris is that chic French fashion. And yes, they look as good, if not better, than you're expecting. Though being a tourist isn't just about how you look, fitting in goes a long way toward making you comfortable in Paris. Not to mention having the wrong shoes can ruin your entire trip...

After more than my fair share of trips to Europe, I’ve found that sticking to simple, comfortable pieces makes it much easier to blend in and feel put together.

If you don’t want to overthink it, I’ve linked everything I actually wear in Paris here →
​
And you can see my full Europe capsule wardrobe here, and learn how to build your own Europe capsule wardrobe here →

Perhaps the most common major mistake tourists make in Paris is focusing on a "checklist" of things you "have to do" in the city. Typically this lengthy list is something like: Eiffel Tower, Louvre, D'Orsay, Sainte-Chapelle, best dinner of your life, etc.

While all of these places and experiences are amazing, and of course you should try to have them, remember *be reasonable* with your limited time. Part of travel is exploring, wandering, getting lost, and perhaps even relaxing a bit. A mad dash through "the Instagram checklist" to Paris is not enjoyable, and you won't experience the incredible country that is France.

Remember to plan some significant downtime. What about days where the only thing you check off your "list" is having a picnic by the Seine on a cozy bench, by which I mean drinking wine and eating a sandwich out of a bag? You'll thank me! And if you miss one "sight,"  you'll see it on your next visit.

​Focusing on a "must-see" checklist

Perfect picnic spot on the Seine (JSB)

​Trying to do too much - Paris is huge

One of the top things that surprised me about Paris is just how big it is (to read the rest, check out 5 Things You Need to Know About Paris).

Centuries of well-preserved history are densely packed into Paris, but that's not to say Paris itself is compact. I found looking at a map of the city to be slightly deceptive. Things that looked walkable were often a signifiant hike.

Luckily, Paris has an excellent Metro system - quick, efficient, safe, and clean - what more could you want! Even taking a couple stops on the Metro can safe you effort and the all-valuable time on a busy trip. The Metro trains come *extremely* quickly, so you're unlikely to go into the station only to find you need to wait a while for a next train.
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Part of making the most effective use of your walking is by making a plan that doesn't have you running all around the city to disparate spots. 

A stroll on Paris's Left Bank (JSB)

​Wasting time in lines

In addition to Paris's physical size, crowds desperate to see the exact same things you came to see can certainly be an issue.

Do your research and buy tickets to Paris's major attractions, when possible, in advance to avoid waiting in unnecessary lines. This is actually an issue throughout much of Continental Europe - you can "skip the line" just by buying your ticket online in advance (and sometimes it just means you wait in a shorter line). Many an unprepared person (many of us Americans!) have just shown up, thinking you'd buy tickets to a museum once you get there, and ending up in the "big line." Let's just say...you don't want to be in the big line.

Another of my favorite "line avoiders" is night openings. Not many, but a few, places, such as the Louvre, have special night openings, when you can have a little more space and slightly fewer people. Absolutely worth it (we did it in the Vatican Museum as well, if Rome is on your list in the near future!)

Arriving at the "night opening" of the Louvre - a great time / energy saver for tourists in Paris (JSB)

​Staying in a crowded, touristy area

Isn't it better without the crowds? (JSB)

While you want to stay "close to the action," make sure to research the spot you'll be staying. I *strongly* suggest opening Google Street View and take a digital stroll around the area.

Certain areas of Paris (such as the area directly around the Opera Garnier) are extremely crowded with visitors, day and night. It's nice to stay somewhere that, while still close to a Metro station, allows you to take a small breather after a long day, and escape the crowds.

We *loved* our stay at Maison Astor, a Curio Collection hotel from Hilton. Still very close to everything we wanted to see, it's tucked away in a nice side street, so we could actually have a bit of relaxation! Again, with that great Metro system, you can easily zip around under Paris to visit the places you want to see! Another fun option, Le Marais has very few hotels, but the ones it does have tend to offer a good ambiance (if tiny rooms!)

Be sure to check-out my Paris Neighborhood Guide!

Falling for scams & pickpockets

I say this not to scare you, but to save you a huge amount of frustration. As in any major tourist destination, there are a number of people in Paris looking to take advantage of tourists. In areas like Montmartre and near the Eiffel Tower, you'll encounter both scammers trying to get you to pay for stuff or sign frivolous petitions, and/or pickpockets. Sometimes the 'petition' is a distraction so they can pickpocket you.

Just remember: don't talk to strangers. As in any large city, just keep walking. Don't let anyone put a bracelet on you, etc. Just keep walking.

​As far as pickpockets, keep your possessions on you in a small, crossbody bag that zips full. Or, invest in an anti-theft bag.

pickpocket-proof purses
for Paris travel ->

​Offending the French

I was *super worried* about interacting with Parisians before my first trip to Paris. I had been lectured by so many people about how I would have a terrible time in France because the French were "just so rude."

I will admit that I am fortunate enough to have taken French in school, but even without my French skills, the French are easy enough to charm, if you do your research! I did not have one negative experience with a French person on my entire trip. They could not have been more welcoming.

​So don't listen to the hype! Do your research. Learn everything you need to know, here: How to Charm the French

Stunning nave of Notre Dame de Paris before the fire (JSB)

​Not bringing your walking shoes

No matter how efficiently you plan your trip, you will be *walking a lot.* We averaged 20,000 steps a day. And, of course, even when you're not actually moving, you're standing in lines, in parks, in museums, or in bars.

You'll need your comfiest walking shoes, and a good rotation of different shoes, to keep your feet feeling fresh. Read up on What to Wear in Paris, to make sure you're prepared.

shop Paris travel shoes ->

Sunset at the Eiffel Tower (JSB)

Paris Tourist Mistake:
​Not learning the history

It's hard to conceptualize some of the things you will be seeing during your time in Paris, if you can't put them into a rough, mental timeline. So it's time to refresh those history skills! I got a bit into it, with a few podcasts about Paris and making myself legit historical timelines, with a notebook and everything (I know, I know). 

If you aren't much of a history buff, try dipping your toe into the past with a few books/movies/miniseries loosely based on the past. They can help whet your appetite and orient you in a time period, without having to slog through text books. Book-wise, I *LOVED* Edward Rutherfurd's Paris, which somewhat ingeniously weaves together the history of several families across many generations and significant events in French history.  It's also available as the longest audiobook I've ever listened to (and that's saying something!!)

Some movies to get you interested in history, through my sneaky approach:

• Versailles (a bit spicy!)
• Marie Antoinette (definitely plays it fast and loose with the truth)
• The Scarlett Pimpernel (staring Lady Grantham from Downton)
• Les Miserables (*NOT* about the French Revolution)
• Saving Private Ryan (not specifically about French culture, but good history lessons, especially if you plan to visit Normandy)

Not taking day trips throughout France

Strasbourg, France (JSB)

​With the aforementioned size and splendor of Paris itself, some tourists don't take time to explore the rest of France. Definitely a mistake! From other large cities to a charming countryside, there's a lot to explore outside of the Parisian city limits. 

Easy day trips from Paris include:

Additionally, France has an efficient, effective, and massive train system - why not get out there and see the rest of this beautiful country while you're here?
​Read up on France by Train!

• The Chateau de Fontainebleau, particularly good if you have had it with crowds and can't handle Versailles
• Strasbourg, Alsace
• Chartres, home to the famed Chartres Cathedral

The Chateau de Fontainebleau, an easy half-day trip from Paris (JSB)

​Not researching restaurants​ in advance

As in any "touristy" area, you'll want to do your research on a few restaurants before you go, to ensure there are quality establishments on your list, where you can experience wonderful, French cooking, and not get ripped off!

For a quick bite to eat in a pinch, I strongly recommend Paul (the French version of Pret a Manger). There's always a Paul around the corner, and you can grab a quick sandwich on the go, at a reasonable price, and carry on with the sight-seeing!

For more information, check out Avoiding Tourist Trap Restaurants in Europe.

​French cuisine is phenomenal. Even at its most touristy, it's still great. Step outside of your "comfort zone" and explore all that French food has to offer. Can't find drip coffee? Have an espresso concoction - goodness knows they can cook up something delicious!

View from dinner on Paris's Left Bank (JSB)

shop my Paris travel essentials ->

I’ve linked everything I actually wear in Paris here →
And you can see my full Europe capsule wardrobe here, and learn how to build your own Europe capsule wardrobe here →

Thanks for stopping by!

I hope you've picked up some takeaways that will help you plan a relaxing and rewarding trip to Paris. There's nothing I love more than helping Americans plan their perfect trip "across the pond." ​And while you're here, I hope you'll sign-up for my blog newsletter, and receive my free, downloadable carry-on packing guide for Europe, along with capsule wardrobe tips, and updated Europe travel outfits. Have an amazing time, and let us know your travel tips when you return! Bon voyage!

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