safe to travel to paris today

Security Alert May 17, 2024

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France Travel Advisory

Travel advisory july 26, 2023, france - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

Exercise increased caution in France due to  terrorism  and  civil unrest .

Country Summary:  Terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in France. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, local government facilities, hotels, clubs, restaurants, places of worship, parks, major sporting and cultural events, educational institutions, airports, and other public areas.

Incidents such as pickpocketing and phone snatchings occur frequently and can happen anywhere, especially in crowded areas such as airports, train stations, subway and train cars, and near tourist attractions.

Peaceful demonstrations and strikes in Paris and other cities throughout France occur regularly and can disrupt transportation. On rare occasions, demonstrations have included violence and property damage and police have responded with water cannons and tear gas.

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to France.

If you decide to travel to France:

• Be aware of your surroundings when traveling to tourist locations and large crowded public venues.
• Avoid demonstrations and areas with significant police activity.
• Follow the instructions of local authorities including movement restrictions related to any ongoing police action.
• Find a safe location and shelter in place if unable to leave the vicinity of a demonstration.
• Monitor local media for breaking events and adjust your plans based on new information.
• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  ( STEP ) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter .
• Review the  Country Security Report  for France.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel. 
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .

Travel Advisory Levels

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Is Paris Safe? Crime Rates & Safety Report

France : Safety by City

• Montpellier

Besides being the most visited tourist destination and the most beautiful city in world, Paris is cosmopolitan city located in the north of France on the river Seine and is home to the world’s finest and most luxurious fashion designers and cosmetics, such as Chanel, Dior, Yves Saint-Laurent, Guerlain, Lancôme, L’Oréal, Clarins.

Paris is visited by over 30 million tourists every year and many people consider it the most romantic of all cities.

It has a nickname “the city of light” and is the center of culture, art, fashion, food, and design.

• Warnings & Dangers in Paris

OVERALL RISK: MEDIUM

The police are doing their best to make Paris a safe place to live and travel, but the number of tourists attracts a lot of pickpockets on the city’s streets. The overall risk is medium, but still, you need to remain cautious as in any other tourist destination in the world.

TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: MEDIUM

Pedestrians need to pay attention when crossing streets because drivers can be very aggressive in Paris. Cars can be even found in pedestrian-only areas. If you decide to come with your car, be aware that driving in Paris is dangerous and there are limited Parking spaces. When traveling by taxi, determine the price before getting in the taxi, since Paris taxi drivers to overcharge tourists. There might be some risk while taking public transport in Paris.

PICKPOCKETS RISK: HIGH

Pickpocketing is the most common crime in Paris targeting tourists, so take care of your possessions, especially in trains, metro stations, and any popular tourist areas. You can protect yourself by having less than $100 in cash with you at a time and using your hotel room safe. Never leave your bags or valuables unattended because they might be considered a security threat and can be destroyed by security officials.

NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: LOW

Except for a few avalanche risks and floods, there are not any more serious natural hazards in Paris.

MUGGING RISK: LOW

Paris is a very safe city when the serous crime acts are in question, so the mugging and kidnapping risk is low.

TERRORISM RISK: HIGH

The high terrorist threat exists in the whole of Europe and in Paris too, since it is the most visited capital and a very attractive one to the terrorists. Due to recent terrorist attacks, Authorities advise people to STAY ALERT and follow their advice. Terrorism is special threat to British travelers and open spaces or demonstrations should be avoided since that attracts the Islamist terrorist group.

SCAMS RISK: HIGH

A lot of scammers in Paris try to take advantage of tourists. The most famous tricks are “gold ring” tricks when somebody pretends to find a ring in front of you and demand money for it, fake petitions, groups of teenagers offering help with your luggage. Be especially aware around Notre Dame, Arc de Triomphe, the Louvre, and the Eiffel Tower.

WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW

Even though Paris is safe for women travelers, when traveling alone, they should avoid areas around metro Les Halles, Gare du Nord, Stalingrad, and Jaures particularly late at night and should stay in well-lit areas. Eye contact with a man is considered as an invitation to make advances.

• So... How Safe Is Paris Really?

Paris is such a great city because it offers the tourist a chance to go to almost every part of the city without being afraid of mugging, kidnapping or any other type of serious crime.

Paris is one of the safer cities in Europe and the biggest problem one may face while in Paris is pickpockets and scammers.

Pickpockets are likely to be found in any area with large crowds, such as train stations and large department stores.

The police are professional and do its best to make Paris even safer, but you still need to practice common sense.

• How Does Paris Compare?
• Useful Information

As in any other European country which belongs to the European Union, the visas are not required for stays under 90 days for the visitors that do not belong to the European Union, while the EU nationals are permitted to stay in the country as long as they want. A valid passport is a must.

The official currency in France is the Euro. The ATMs should be used with care and you need to pay attention to your surroundings when you withdraw money. Paris is one of the very expensive capital cities.

Paris has a maritime climate. The winters are cool and summers are warm. In January, the temperatures are 6°C without frequent snow. Summers in Paris are warm and pleasant and that is the best part of the year to visit it.

There are many airport options when coming to Paris since you can use any of the international airports such as Aéroport de Charles de Gaulle, Paris Orly, Aéroport de Bordeaux, Aéroport de Lille, Aéroport International Strasbourg, Aéroport Lyon-St Exupéry, Aéroport Marseille-Provence, Aéroport Nantes Atlantique, Aéroport Nice Côte d’Azur, and Aéroport Toulouse-Blagnac.

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance which will cover medical problems, theft, and loss of personal items is essential in any country, as well as in France. Travelers usually purchase travel insurance along with their plane tickets.

Paris Weather Averages (Temperatures)

• Average High/Low Temperature

France - Safety by City

Explore paris.

• 10 Things to Do in Paris With Kids
• Airbnbs in Downtown Paris to Be Banned?
• Top 4 Most Expensive Hotels in Paris
• Where to Next?

37 Reviews on Paris

It is just awful , people are trying to mug you , you just cant walk and feel safe near the refuges , smell of piss is everywhere , Paris was the most beautiful city I have ever visited , but right now I would not recommend to anyone to go near it .

Probably governed by liberals

I love Paris and I go often. With like any city you just have to be aware of your surroundings. Paris is safer than any American City. The people of Paris are wonderful . The Food is like no other in the world. If you have taste you will love Paris

Don’t come to Paris

I agree and I m French.

Paris is a ghetto nowadays. Be REALLY careful there, and don’t go if you can avoid it. Even the city centre is dangerous now. If what you are looking for is visiting a big European city, there are way better options like London which are way more safe (and beautiful too).

my daughter and her friends visited while in school in europe ,,they were robbed 2x in 2 hours by gangs in train station not non violent pickpockets gangs ……

Dangerous place

Gare du Nord is a horrific place. Swarms of gangs looking for innocent victims to rob. The metro is even worse. Most awful travel experience.

Paris is no longer Paris

Can you believe that Paris has a better safety-rating than Moscow or Ukraine?

I lived in Paristan. It’s 30% safe at best. Such an overly expensive ghetto.

Do NOT go to Gare du Nord.

Do NOT go out at night in town, especially if you are a lady on your own.

AVOID the metro and the RER after dark. Nothing much is open late but kebab shops and halal grocery stores, anyway.

Very sad, I know.

True, Paris needs to clean up its act fast. I went 5 yrs ago, never again. Filthy 3rd world people everywhere. Avoid.

Really Sketchy place

Mugging risk, unlike stated in this article is really high. Just don’t make the wrong turn.

Beware! Pickpockets! Human trafficking! Not safe for solo female travelers!

This rating is way off. Paris is not safe for solo female travelers! Especially young women, even those traveling in pairs. Pickpockets and men pulling at you. Be wary, you could be a victim of human trafficking.

Networks of pickpockets use distraction techniques. Do not take your eyes off your belongings when moving to and from your hotel or rental. You will have to be rude and ignore people who talk to you at times. Hoards of idle men loitering in the streets and especially near metro stations. I was surprised by how many men there were and very few women.

I had my backpack stolen with a computer, hard drives, and pro camera within minutes after arriving – my carry on. Was right at my feet for less than 30 seconds outside my AirBnB in the 18th, before some guy started talking to me – and as I instinctively looked at him for briefly, the other guy grabbed my backpack.

Police told me they can’t keep up with these networks. Found Paris to be a very scary city overall. This is coming from a Chicago native, and very vigilant about safety and belongings. Nothing I could’ve done differently but never take it off or use both belt and chest straps. Thankfully my passport and cards were in an RFID wallet tightly attached.

Lyft/Uber drivers will frequently cancel rides claiming you are a “no-show”, while you get charged the cancel fee – and they get paid.

France is a safe place everywhere except in Paris. You should avoid this city, or stay in rich area. You should discover the real France, not this pathetic third-world city who not belong to France anymore.

Two women felt quite safe

My daughter and I went to Paris recently in summer 2020 and felt quite safe. I would feel worried if my daughter was traveling alone in any large city because she doesn’t have experience with ignoring unwanted attention or requests, nor assessing the level of threat and best response/reaction one should take. However the 2 of us together, we never felt unsafe, with one exception. The exception was COVID-19 in crowded metros, especially with some men speaking loudly to each other with their masks pulled down. In some neighborhoods, there are languages spoken other than french, where the men speak extremely loudly to each other on the sidewalks, forming a sort of corridor that you’d have to walk through. To avoid the risk of contamination, we’d detour around such groups, crossing the street if needed. You have to use common sense and ignore people with weird requests, like asking you to read a postcard or weird stuff, but surprisingly on this visit, those people were non-existant. We visited all the usual tourist spots, traveled on the metro in the evening, and walked a lot, in perfect safety.

Biased review

After reading that page and the one for Shanghai I’m 100% sure the author never visited those cities but instead did little more than naively copy-paste biased reviews from other websites. I am originally from Paris and I live since several years in Shanghai. I find unbelievable a dangerous place like Paris gets higher rate than Shanghai (which is one of the safest city in the world along with Singapore and Tokyo).

You never got the right experience of Shanghai or Paris, sorry ma dude…

Agree with you

Completely agree with you, as another former parisian who moved to China almost 5 years ago. Paris is no longer what it was.

France no longer doing well....

I am french and left the country 20 years ago… for family reasons. The reason why the country drastically changed is due to European borders opening in 2000. The famous Europe! that was supposed to unify…. The rich left and the poor came, But mainly it is due to passive and stupid politicians. They decided to let anybody in and also to let incivility and violence take place. Bad choices, removed also mandatory one year military trainings … a good way to strengthen some minds!! ..Police and teachers are under paid and under respected… i can go on with so many reasons why the country turned bad…Plus Paris attracts more than other cities.

Haven’t been and after reading all of the ratings, I have decided not to go. Stupid politicians and opening the borders sounds familiar (US). Thanks for your input.

you should go,i have been there and it is decently safe,trust me

Beautiful in the centre of the city. But surrounds are some of the worst ghetto suburbs you’ll ever see.

It’s an amazing city to visit, issue is, scams at the Mona Lisa Museum are bound to happen.

Don’t think of Paris as a romantic place for late night walks and everyone is smiling… be safe go elsewhere

It should be more realistic

France is not safe but not because of terrorism but because of France itself

I think thst Paris is super safe and fun

Not at all what we had hoped for

Pretty much in tandem with some of the other travelers! Awful at night, even for a couple traveling together. The whole Parisian vibe we were hoping to experience can pretty much be summed with just one word: overrated. Sure, the pandemic affected the traveling sector but this has happened worldwide. I am referring to the smell, the crowds upon crowds of people, those beady eyes constantly scanning us to look for potential exposed belongings. I don’t know when this became the norm but I know for sure I won’t be coming back anytime soon.

Paris should not be the capital of France anymore, its the terrorism capital of Western Europe.

The safety is much lower than 68. Paris has lot of gun crime even the metro also has lots of crime. In fact, Paris has little peace. The city has lots of ghetto places. Better stick to the place with fewer guns.

Just returned from Paris. I would never visit again. Subways are not safe. Taxis are gross and food is very very expensive. There is absolutely no where to go after dark. I am a 55 year old Dad traveling with my daughters. I was with my 60 year olf brother and his girls. Absolutely run over w trash and filth.

Lived in Paris 22 years ….. i’m safe, thank you. BUT OK. You need to know where, when, whith who, how, you go … it’s not a dangerous place at ALL if you’ve traveled a little … it’s just a capital ….seriously, it’s not so bad, but yes you have to take care of yourself anytime. Like … everywhere ?

Have a Nice trip

Well, I dont like Paris. Some places you don’t see any black people but when you far the Paris everywhere black and you find it white like there’s a needle in a haystack. and a lot bad stuff.

Just so you know, you West asians and north africans overwhelmingly dominate the sector of “bad and problematic” minorities in France and Europe beyond far more than blacks do

What can you expect from a major city?

Remember, Paris is huge. When you have a city of this size, it’s going to have problems. But I’m not sure that the net ratio of problems per capita is any higher than Chicago. Overall, expect large crowds and bad traffic most times, regardless of which part of the city. I personally saw the aftermath of 2 crashes on the road even though I was only there a brief period. Paris is certainly nothing alone the lines of an open war zone, but there are safer cities of similar size elsewhere in the world. Treat it with the same respect you would any metropolis, and you are not likely to be a victim. If you are worried about being pick pocketed, get a chain wallet and Ykooe cell phone holster. If your clothes don’t support wearing a belt, you are putting yourself at a disadvantage. For anyone who is not aware… going out to a bar and getting drunk late at night, especially while alone, is an excellent way to make yourself vulnerable, regardless of whether in France or a much safer locale such as Scandinavia. Use common sense…

Only place in the world I have been robbed three times. The first two times I was living in Paris. Children and women are the typical culprits and they are professional. I have been all over Europe, Africa and Asia and only robbed in Paris. This misinformation is why so many traveling to Paris are unprepared, deemed safe because its Europe, not because its actually safe

never again.

We traveled in a large group. After eating in the Georgian restaurant in the Paris center, we where robbed by a black males who ripped off the watches and ran off. Police said don’t wear expensive watches. Overall- durty delipidated city with unfriendly people and nothing interesting created in the 100 years. Go to Asia or Eastern European instead.

Paris is not good to travel

I do not recommend Paris for tourists because of police the Paris police not doing there job well they see there is pickpockets and robbers but they ignore them so why everyone is free to do anything if police do there job that will be the best city for ever i don’t know that police have link with them or what but police is nothing in Paris

Still a pretty safe country to visit. Forget your worries about crime and Emmanuel Macron

My info is probably biased, so it is fine if you get me wrong. I went to Paris and did not sense any insecurity, aside from the strikes and the protests of course. However, you still should be on the lookout for any robbers or pickpockets, as this is common. This year, police efficiency increased, and crimes began to fall. Marseille is still pretty safe, but the number of murders went from somewhere like 32 to 36, so that’s also where police presence increased I think. I semi-agree with what @David above says, but is not like the police don’t want to reduce crime rates (some police officers are like that), they are not told to enough, and political correctness made by “Mr Unnecessary,” aka Macron is to blame!

Visited this November, and had a great time. Felt safe everywhere I went I just saw a few scams from gypsies’ girls. If you don’t talk to them you are fine.

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Article Contents

• Paris : Safety by City
• Overall Risk
• Transport & Taxis Risk
• Pickpockets Risk
• Natural Disasters Risk
• Mugging Risk
• Terrorism Risk
• Women Travelers Risk
• Weather Averages (Temperatures)
• User Reviews
• Share Your Experience

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Is Paris Safe in 2024 and Beyond? And Should You Travel to France Now?

Last Updated on June 20, 2024

Many travelers want to know whether Paris is still safe to visit– and their concerns are understandable. Following isolated terrorist attacks and occasionally-violent street demonstrations in recent years, as well as a global pandemic, worries about the safety of the French capital have become more common.

But the truth is that Paris generally remains a safe destination, and with some precautions in mind all visitors should feel comfortable traveling to the capital. Read on for the latest information on travel advisories and precautions to take when visiting France, and for my full safety tips for anyone planning a trip to Paris.

I start by covering some of the topics most likely to be on travelers’ minds, followed by more long-term safety issues and concerns. You can use the “Explore This Article” tab below to directly navigate to the information of most immediate interest and use to you.

Explore This Article

Current Safety Advisories for Paris & France

The US State Department currently shows a yellow, Level 2 travel warning for France, corresponding to the advice “Exercise increased caution” and citing risks including terrorism and potential civil unrest. See the full advisory here .

Traveling from another country? To see current safety advisories for your country of origin and specific safety tips from your Embassy or Consulate in France, see this page.

Statistically Speaking, Paris Remains Very Safe

The Economist-sponsored “Safe Cities” report for 2021 ranked Paris as the 23rd-safest major city in the world out of 60– making it almost exactly middling. And while the city has admittedly taken a significant knockdown in global city safety ratings due to recent terrorist attacks and other factors, violent crime is still generally uncommon in the capital.

OSAC, the US Bureau of Diplomatic Security,  notes tha t tourists are generally safe in the city, and that street crime such as pickpocketing remains the primary concern. These notes are particularly striking and paint a clearer picture of the sorts of crimes visitors need to be most on guard against:

According to the Violent Crime Risk Index (ViCRI), a resource for urban-level violence risk data and ratings, Paris ranks as a class 2 city on an 11-point index scale measuring homicide, aggravated assault, robbery, and rape risks. Street crime, however, is a concern, most notably in areas frequented by tourists. Consular officials throughout France report that U.S. travelers are frequently victims of pickpockets, swarm and grabs, or scams. (OSAC, France Country Security Report, available here )

To break it down a bit, Paris ranks a “2” on a scale reaching up to “11” when it comes to violent crime. Moreover, violent crimes rates in France are  roughly on par with Canada’s , and are three times lower than in the US.

According to French government statistics, even when taking into account deaths from terrorist attacks, the homicide rate in Paris per 1,000 inhabitants between 2015 and 2017 was only 0.019 (0.014 if you exclude the attacks).

You get my drift. Violent crime, and especially the sort that threatens lives, is relatively rare in Paris.  Gun violence there is astronomically lower than it is in comparably sized cities in the US.

And while the US State Department website advises that tourists remain aware of their surroundings and exercise caution due to potential terrorist threats, take note:  they don’t recommend cancelling your trip or avoiding the city.

My conclusion? Yes, there are some risks that can’t be denied.  Most large metropolitan cities, including London and New York, carry similar risks in our globalized world. Should you avoid setting foot in these places altogether?

Everyone has to make choices that they feel comfortable with, but from my perspective, you’d be greatly overestimating the dangers you face by doing so.

Pickpocketing is the Most Common Crime Affecting Tourists in Paris

I’ve already discussed the unlikelihood of tourists becoming victims of violent crime in Paris. However, this doesn’t mean that you don’t risk being targeted for petty street crimes that can still make your trip a nightmare.

Pickpocketing is by far the biggest threat to visitors, so before your trip you should learn how thieves operate and take all the precautions necessary to avoid being targeted.

How to Avoid Pickpockets in Paris? 

Pickpockets operate in predictable and often highly organized ways, targeting tourists in crowded and popular areas. Often, they get away with your wallet or purse so quickly that you barely feel a thing. To keep this from happening, take these steps: In any crowded place (busy lines, congested metro cars, open spaces full of tourists snapping photos), take extra care with your belongings.

It’s best to carry a bag or purse that you can wear crisscrossed around your chest, with pockets and valuables hugged to your front and in plain view. If you wear a backpack, don’t leave wallets, cash, passports or other valuable items in the front compartments.

Only bring as much cash as you’ll likely need for the day, and maybe even less.  100 Euros or so is a good limit to aim for. Traveler’s checks can easily be exchanged for Euros at the American Express office on Rue Scribe (Metro: Opera).

If you must carry larger amounts of cash, consider wearing a money belt .

It’s always preferable to leave passports , large amounts of cash and other valuables in a hotel safe, if possible.

Never leave your bags or suitcases unattended , even for a minute or two. Not only do you run the risk of them being swiped up by thieves between two blinks of an eye: they can also be legally confiscated and destroyed by security forces, under current safety regulations in public spaces.

What About ATM Thefts and Other Scams? 

In addition to pickpockets, tourists are often targeted by scammers and thieves in other ways. ATMs/cashpoints are particularly vulnerable spots. Never allow anyone to linger nearby when you take out cash, and guard against prying eyes.

Never let anyone “help” you with a transaction at an ATM, or otherwise interfere with it. Ask the intrusive person to back off, and if they refuse, find another place to take out cash.

Around popular tourist attractions including the Sacre Coeur, the Louvre and the Eiffel Tower, merchants operating illegally are known to aggressively “persuade” tourists to buy their wares.

This often involves putting an object or trinket in your hand or inviting you to “try on” a bracelet.

{Our Top Tips for Avoiding Common Tourist Scams & Traps in Paris}

Once you give in, a demand for payment often follows. Avoid this by refusing all advances from such “vendors” and not allowing them to place any items in or on your hand.

General Safety Concerns: Putting Your Risks Into Perspective

With what seem to be frequent reports of violent incidents in the capital over the past few years, it can indeed feel scary to be a visitor these days. But there have been exaggerated accounts in some media outlets about the dangers tourists face when visiting Paris.

But in a modern world where there are many complex risks to weigh and negotiate all the time, it’s important to put those risks into perspective. It’s not about discounting potential danger. It’s about recognizing that life must go on– and that living in fear shrinks your world and its possibilities.

So before you cancel your trip or decide on another destination out of fear that you may be the victim of a terrorist attack or some other form of violent crime, read through my advice below.

As I’ve said elsewhere, Paris greatly depends on tourism to thrive as a city. It would be catastrophic to its livelihood to see too many people stay away and renounce all the capital has to offer out of a disproportionate sense of fear.

That said, staying informed about potential risks is an important part of feeling empowered as a traveler. Below are a few notes on recent incidents and safety concerns for tourists in the capital, with guidance on whether they warrant postponing or canceling your trip.

Covid-19 Cases & Deaths in France & Current Travel Safety Regulations

In France, according to updated  data from the French government , there have been over 40.1 million confirmed cases since January 2020.

As of 20 June 2024, over 167,642 people have died from COVID-19 in France. Most patients were elderly and/or had pre-existing conditions. Please note that the government is no longer regularly offering updated statistics, so these may not be entirely accurate at the time of reading.

On August 1st, 2022, France lifted most Covid-related restrictions on travel and travelers . There are no longer any paperwork or formalities to complete to arrive in mainland or overseas France, and no Covid-19 certificates or proof of vaccination are required at this time, irrespective of country or area of origin.

However, should a dangerous variant become of major concern, France reserves the right to reinstate health measures such as vaccine certificates or passes for travelers from at-risk countries.

You can find updated information on current entry requirements and restrictions for France at this page on the France Diplomacy website . Please do consult that site in addition to this page for the most recent guidelines; while we do aim to update this page as frequently as possible, the regulations have been changing frequently.

“Gilet Jaune” (Yellow Vest) Protests & French Transport Strikes

Starting in late December 2018, smaller groups of “gilets jaunes” (yellow vest) protestors  staged demonstrations in Paris, almost exclusively on Saturdays. Some saw demonstrators throw rocks, burn cars and break store windows. But starting in late May 2019, the protests simmered out , in part due to a much heavier police presence.

Since late 2019, the protests have occurred sporadically and at a much smaller scale. They are not currently a concern for travelers to the capital or elsewhere in France. Even when civil unrest was at its peak in 2018 and 2019, it’s important to remember that tourists have not been injured or otherwise endangered by these protests.

Protecting Your Health in Paris

No one intends to get sick or suffer from an accident while traveling, but preparing for such unfortunate events will give you peace of mind and save you from outlandish medical costs.

Many international travel insurance policies cover up to millions of dollars in medical costs and liabilities, and can offer peace of mind.  You can compare and purchase travel insurance policies here (via World Nomads).

[World Nomads provides travel insurance for travelers in over 100 countries. As an affiliate, we receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads using the link above. We do not represent World Nomads. This is information only and not a recommendation to buy travel insurance.]

Emergency Numbers to Keep With You in France If you run into a medical or other emergency, call one of the toll-free numbers below from any phone, and contact your embassy. It’s wise to print out these numbers and keep them with you at all times: Medical Emergencies & Accidents: 15 Fire brigade: 18 Police: 17 SOS Médecins (on-call doctors): 01 47 07 77 77 SOS Dentaire (dentists): 01 43 37 51 00 SOS burns: 01 58 41 41 41

Note that in most cases, calling “15” is the best thing to do in a medical emergency. If you have been the victim of a violent crime or other crime, it will be necessary to both inform the French police and to file a report with your embassy.

If you need a pharmacy in Paris, identify them by their green flashing crosses. Most neighborhoods in the city have at least one pharmacy within a few blocks’ radius. These pharmacies are open late or 24 hours a day , in case you need to seek advice from a pharmacist or purchase medical supplies late at night.

This can especially be useful to know if you’re traveling with a young baby or toddler, since young ones sometimes require quick treatment, and pharmacists are often able to provide expert advice or recommend and sell over-the-counter medications that you can’t buy directly off the shelves.

Safety for Pedestrians in Paris 

While Paris is generally a very pedestrian-friendly city– the local government has been working to increase the number of car-free zones around the capital in recent years– drivers can be aggressive, posing a danger to walkers.

My advice? Take a defensive approach when crossing streets and busy intersections, checking for cars even when the light is green and/or when you have the right of way.

In areas that appear to be pedestrian-only, watch out for cars and aggressive motorcylists: some areas that are “car-“free” still allow motorcyclists, service vehicles and cyclists.

What About Driving in Paris? 

I generally advise against trying to drive in central Paris. Parisian drivers can be aggressive and unpredictable (by many standards), and traffic conditions are often congested and unpleasant.

If you have to drive, your international driver’s license and insurance must be up to date. Also make sure you understand the local rules of the road.

And unless you’re used to European traffic circles, you should avoid, at all costs, driving around busy traffic circles such as the one at the Place de l’Etoile on the Avenue des Champs-Elysées.

If you do opt to take a taxi, whether within the city or to the airport and back, make sure you only use reputable companies. Never accept a ride from a taxi that doesn’t have an official “Taxi Parisien” sign atop its roof and a visible meter inside. You may be overcharged or otherwise scammed, if you do…

Read related : How to Use Airport Taxis in Paris (& Avoid Getting Overcharged)

Why to Register & Keep in Touch With Your Embassy?

It’s always wise to register with your embassy ahead of your trip and to keep their contact details with you at all times.

In the event that your passport is lost or stolen, you experience a medical emergency or a crime, or are in the city at the time of a dangerous event, registering will ensure that you’ll be able to get in touch more quickly with your embassy and to receive help from them. This is a good list of world embassies and their contact details. 

Once at your embassy’s site, read through any relevant travel advisories for Paris and France and find out how to register as a citizen traveling abroad before your trip.

Are There Dangerous Places to Avoid in Paris?

I wish I could argue that Paris is entirely safe in all circumstances, but sadly, there are a few places that you’d probably be best off avoiding at night, especially for women and solo travelers.

Gangs are known to operate in some of these areas, and hate crimes have been reported around them in the past.

Take special caution late at night around the following metro stops and surrounding areas (and perhaps avoid altogether when traveling alone after dark) : Chatelet les Halles, Les Halles, Pigalle, Couronnes, Belleville, Place des Fetes, Porte de St Ouen, Porte de Clichy, Gare du Nord, Stalingrad, Jaures, and Crimée. Please note that this is not a definitive list: you should probably be cautious in all areas of the city after nightfall, or when crowds disperse.

Also note that this is NOT a list of so-called “no-go” zones in Paris. From my perspective (and it’s one shared by most locals), these simply don’t exist within the city limits.

All 20 arrondissements in Paris (city districts) are generally safe , as long as you take some precautions in the areas mentioned above, and do so everywhere at night. Remember, “posh” areas can be remarkably empty after dark, so paradoxically you may be more vulnerable in these.

Unfortunately, I also advise against traveling to the Northern suburbs of Paris after nightfall.  Violent crimes and hate crimes are more frequent in these areas, as is gang activity.

It pains me to advise this as I don’t wish to stigmatize any communities or places, but from a standpoint of tourist safety, these areas are probably best avoided at night.

Advice For Women, LGBTQ+ and Minority Travelers

While Paris is generally a tolerant and diverse place that is welcoming to people of all colors, creeds, sexual orientations and gender expressions, there are occasional cases of harassment or even assault.

Women , especially when traveling alone or in small groups, should take extra care at night, especially when alone. Avoid places with poor lighting and few people roaming the streets. Safety is in numbers.

Also, be aware that French men sometimes read smiles or extended eye contact as permission to flirt or make sexual advances. With strangers, it’s best to assume a neutral stance that clearly says “I’m not interested”.

If a man makes unwelcome or aggressive advances in the street or in other public places, firmly say “non”, refrain from smiling, and walk away. Call the police if you are followed or the harassment continues, and retreat to a public cafe or other crowded place if necessary.

People of color generally have nothing to fear in Paris, a city with remarkable ethnic diversity. Nevertheless, hate crimes are not unheard of.

If you are a victim of an attack that you feel is racially motivated, report it to the police, your embassy, and if necessary to French watchdog SOS Racisme: + 33 (0)1 40 35 36 55

Gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender and non-binary visitors are generally safe and welcomed in the capital, which harbors a large and vibrant LGBT community. That said, there has sadly been a spike in reports of homophobic attacks in Paris over the past couple of years, and in the areas I mention above as being potentially less safe after dark, it is advisable to be extra cautious.

Read this guide for more tips on staying safe, including for LGBT couples. If you are attacked, report it to the police and to your embassy, and state clearly if you believe the attack was a hate crime.

Related: How to Celebrate LGBT Pride Month in Paris? 

Advice for Jewish and Muslim Travelers

Jewish visitors may have read that Paris has become unsafe for them. It can’t be denied that antisemitic attacks have been on the rise in recent years, with targets including synagogues, places of business and Jewish individuals.

Sadly, from 2018 such attacks are reported to have risen sharply . And they have unfortunately skyrocketed in France since 2023, against the backdrop of the Israel-Gaza conflict that broke out in October of that year. As a result, it pains me to say that visitors should take extra precautions at this time.

These attacks have been met with increased police protection of Jewish schools, places of worship and other sites important to the Jewish community.

While safety concerns are warranted, I want to stress that Paris has one of the largest Jewish communities in the world: one with a deep history that’s very much part of the cultural fabric of the city.

The vibe is generally welcoming and you shouldn’t fear visiting the city. It’s also important to know that there have been no recent reports of attacks against tourists of Jewish faith (nor am I aware of any to have occured in recent history). Nevertheless, it’s probably a good idea to take some precautions, particularly in the areas I mention above.

While I regret advising it, it may be best, late at night and in the aforementioned areas, to remove visibly religious symbols and clothing items. Always report it to the police and to your embassy if you are a victim of an antisemitic attack. SOS Racisme can also help.

Muslim visitors may also fear attacks from Islamophobic individuals . Since 2015, there has been, according to numerous organizations, a sharp rise in attacks on Muslim places of worship and individuals.

Tourists of Muslim faith should not fear visiting the capital, however. Again, there is a large community here and most people are welcoming.

As always, though, if you experience harassment or violence make sure to report it to the police, your embassy, and perhaps to SOS Racisme: (+ 33 (0)1 40 35 36 55).

While attacks on tourists of Muslim faith are exceedingly rare, it is important for victims to be heard, have their experience accounted for, and to seek the help they need.

*Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you book products or services though this site, it comes at no cost to you, but will help fund more free, in-depth content here at Paris Unlocked. Thank you. 

Courtney Traub is the Founder and Editor of Paris Unlocked. She’s a longtime Paris resident who now divides her time (as well as she can manage) between the French capital and Norwich, UK. Co-author of the 2012 Michelin Green Guide to Northern France & the Paris Region, she has been interviewed as an expert on Paris and France by the BBC, Australian Broadcasting Corporation, Le Figaro, Matador Network and other publications. Courtney has also written and reported stories for media outlets including Radio France Internationale, The Christian Science Monitor, Women’s Wear Daily and The Associated Press. In addition to going down various rabbit holes of curiosity when it comes to French culture, history, food and art, Courtney is a scholar of literature and cultural history whose essays and reviews have appeared in various forums.

11 thoughts on “ Is Paris Safe in 2024 and Beyond? And Should You Travel to France Now? ”

can one travel a few days bw 16-23 dec 2019, flying from paris to nice, then flying back to paris without too much trouble or expense?

Yes, that’s entirely feasible. The flight is only about an hour long and many low-cost carriers offer very good fares if you book in advance. Check Easyjet, Iberia, and even Air France for sales on that route. Bon voyage!

This is positive news. Thanks for the update. Hopes are high that things return to normalcy soon. I love to travel to France during the summer, and I think it will be easier by then. I do go through travel blogs to understand the precautions we need to take enough steps to travel safely.

Considering that I want to travel to Europe one day this really helps me. Who doesn’t want to save money especially when you’re already on a trip. Thanks for the tips.

The topic of this blog is a question in my heart right now. I am eager to know this since I am getting bored at my home. Finally I came to an answer that yes it is safe to travel to France now. I will know find the list of best places to visit in France and after that I will start the process of online France Visa UK so that I can get it one time for my travelling with my kids and family.

I am from Singapore and am considering visiting France with my wife and 2 toddlers (ages 2 and 4) at the end of this year 2021 for Christmas. Thought it would be nice to let me kids experience a winter Christmas for a change. However I am concerned with how French people or Parisians view Asian tourists. Do they stigmatise them given how COVID-19 has been dubbed the “China virus” in the US? And are there any safe distancing measures in place for restaurants or museums in France (e.g. dine in no more than 2 pax at a table etc)? Are there any other pointers I should be aware of if we want to explore visiting beyond Paris to other parts of France during December? Thanks!

Hi Eric, thanks for reading and for your comment. While prejudice does sadly exist in Paris/France, tourists are very rarely the subject of attacks and harassment, and you can be rest assured that with some sensible precautions, you will feel safe and secure traveling there. I do understand your anxiety, but please know that Paris in particular is an incredibly diverse, cosmopolitan city, and again, as long as you follow some essential safety tips and guidelines , you have nothing to fear.

As to your second question, yes, there are currently safety measures in France to prevent the spread of coronavirus. “Health passes”, or vaccine passports, are required to enter most public spaces (or visitors must show proof of negative tests). Masks are also still required in all indoor public spaces including public transportation, shops, museums etc. You’ll find all the relevant, updated info in the link above.

Have a wonderful, safe trip, and thanks again for reading! –Courtney

This article is so helpful and thank you for your time in writing this. I am from the US and traveling to Paris with my boyfriend February 2022. We both are fully vaccinated and may get booster shots if recommended to travel Paris. However, friends are telling me that France might go in lockdown again. What are your thoughts?

So glad to know you’ve found this helpful, Jessica. I wish I could predict what might happen next, but the Omicron variant of the virus is a real wild card. I don’t think anyone knows what might happen in the coming weeks and months in terms of travel restrictions. If you’re not comfortable with the uncertainty of that, I do recommend delaying your trip. Typically, since the pandemic began winter and spring have proven tough, with a reprieve in late spring through early fall. Perhaps if at all possible it would be best to try to reschedule your trip for that period? All the best!

My husband and I are visiting France in late March/early April 2022, spending time in Paris, Bordeaux, and the Dordogne. Your site has been so helpful as we plan our trip. We are both fully vaccinated against COVID and received our boosters in mid-October. As I understand the current vaccine pass requirements, we are okay to travel to France (we’ll need to get the vaccine pass either before we leave or when we arrive). Is that right? Thanks for your help.

I’m sorry to bother you as I know you yourself asked a question you would like answered….my husband and I are traveling to Paris late May. We are fully vaccinated and boosted, what is the “vaccine pass” you are referring to? Thank you in advance for your reply

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Everything you need to know about travel to France right now

By Olivia Morelli

France has raised its national threat level to its highest degree. The UK government website states that “terrorists are very likely to try to carry out attacks in France”, and advises those travelling in France currently to “remain vigilant at all times”. We look at how the situation impacts travel and what you can do to stay safe when travelling in France.

What is happening in France right now?

The change in terrorism threat levels comes after a fatal attack in Arras, northern France on Friday 13 October 2023. On Saturday 14 October 2023, the Louvre was evacuated after receiving a written threat , and the Palace of Versailles has been closed twice since Friday 13 October due to security scares. President Emmanuel Macron has increased the national threat level to its highest point, the ‘Emergency Attack Level’, and ordered 7,000 French soldiers to mobilise to further bolster security in public spaces.

How is this situation impacting travel to France?

On Wednesday 18 October 2023, news reports stated that six airports across France had been evacuated as state security received information of bomb threats. According to The Independent , these airports include Lille, Nice, Toulouse, Lyon, Nantes and two terminals at Paris-Beauvais. This has caused delays and cancellations for flights planning to arrive or depart from these airports.

Can I travel to France right now?

The UK government website does not mention avoiding travel to France; however, it advises travellers to remain extremely vigilant when travelling there. Visitors are told to “stay aware of your surroundings, stay away from demonstrations and follow the advice of local authorities”. The site claims that “terrorism attacks could be indiscriminate” and could happen “in places frequented by foreign nationals such as shopping centres, entertainment establishments. cultural events, public transport [and] places of worship”. Travellers are advised to “be vigilant in public places and follow the advice of local French authorities”.

What shall I do if I am planning to travel to France, or currently travelling in France?

The UK’s Counter Terrorism Policing unit has collated information and advice on how best to stay safe when travelling abroad and important information on what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Advice to consider before you travel includes checking the latest UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office travel advice, ensuring you have adequate travel insurance, and knowing the local emergency numbers in your destination (all EU countries can call 112). Read up on further safety tips at counterterrorism.police.uk and gov.uk .

✈️ Registration is OPEN for our Intentional Travelers Tookit Membership ! Sign up by Monday, July 8 2024  **  Get this deal >

Paris France travel requirements 2024: What American travelers need to know

We aim to keep this post updated about Paris France travel in 2024 with official Paris travel restrictions, requirements, and health and safety guidance. Our goal is to help you make informed decisions so you can travel confidently, safely, and responsibly in this new post-pandemic world of ours.

Paris is a destination close to our hearts, as Michelle has relatives in the city and studied in Paris in college.

As restrictions vary based on the traveler’s citizenship, we will focus primarily on those affecting U.S. citizens.

Last update: January 2024. Originally published: May 2021.

Disclosure: This post contains some affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of our links, we may receive a small commission, at no additional cost to you.

January 2024 – Agnes Groonwald of Travel on the Reg , expats in France: “Tourism in Paris has seemed light since our move just outside of the city, but we also haven’t experienced the peak summer season yet. It’s still expected to book the big attractions (e.g. Louvre Museum) a few weeks ahead of travel, and dinner reservations remain a must at popular eateries.

Some locals and tourists are still voluntarily masking on crowded public transit and popular tourist destinations. Otherwise, it appears to be business as usual. There are no COVID protocols outside of doctors’ offices where masking is compulsory. Paris attractions, restaurants, and public transit are all operating without COVID-era restrictions. You can travel to/from the city without vaccine cards. That said, the city continues to struggle with regular disruptions to transit/worker shortages that require patience from travelers, but this has more to do with local politics vs. COVID. It’ll be interesting to see what happens during the Olympics.

The general tips for Paris travel apply. Leave plenty of time to get to/from attractions around the city and pre-book the big ticket items as soon as you know when you’re visiting.”

*At the end of the post, we share more on-the-ground perspectives from local residents and travelers to the Paris so you can get a true sense of what to expect.

Table of Contents

Can US citizens travel to Paris, France? Can I travel to Paris right now? 

Yes, France is open to American travelers, regardless of vaccination status.

As of August 2022 , France removed all COVID entry requirements for any traveler from any country.

Testing, proof of vaccination, proof of recovery, proof of a compelling reason for travel, and sworn declaration about Covid contact and symptoms are no longer required .

Visitors from over 60  visa-exempt countries , including the U.S., will soon be required to have a European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) travel authorization to enter Italy and other European countries . The start date has been delayed from 2024 to 2025. 

See details about ETIAS here

Paris, France travel restrictions currently allow traveling between regions. However, as of May 2023 , short-haul domestic flights that can be taken by train in less than two-and-a-half hours are not allowed. 

Effective March 2022, masks are no longer required in indoor spaces and public transport but still highly recommended in enclosed and small spaces, in hospitals, and other medical centers.

Quarantine rules in Paris, France: What happens if I get Covid?

Travelers are not required to quarantine upon arrival in France unless presenting symptoms of Covid.

Travelers who test positive for COVID-19 while in France are no longer required to self-isolate but are asked to observe the following guidelines:

• Wear mask, observe physical distancing, practice hand hygiene
• Avoid contact with people who are immunocompromised
• Notify others (family, friends, colleagues) you came in contact with within 48 hours before the onset of symptoms, or within 7 days before testing positive, if no symptoms are present
• Contact a doctor and monitor your health

See details here .

Paris Health Pass/Pass Sanitaire Requirements for Dining, Attractions, and Travel

You might be wondering: Do I need a vaccine certificate or Covid test to enter restaurants, public transit, accommodations, and attractions in Paris?

Since March 2022, a vaccine pass is no longer required to enter most establishments.

As of August 2022, Health Pass or passe sanitaire , obtained with a proof of either vaccination or a recent negative Covid test, is no longer required.

Can Americans travel to Paris France in 2024?

Travel to Paris in June is open for US citizens without restrictions. Please read on for details and check back for updates, as protocols may change.

What is it like to fly to Paris, France CDG Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport right now? As of March 2022, wearing a mask is no longer required in French airports. Check with your individual airline about mask requirements on board the flight.

Temperature checks or other screenings may be done at the airport. Hand sanitizers are readily available. 

Do Americans have to quarantine when traveling to Paris, France? No. Travelers are not required to quarantine upon arrival in France. 

Does France check COVID-19 symptoms of incoming travelers? Health screening procedures, including temperature checks, may be in place at airports and other ports of entry in France. 

Does France require a negative Covid 19 test for American travelers?  As of August 2022, a negative Covid 19 test is no longer required for entry. 

Does France require a proof of Coronavirus vaccine for American travelers? As of August 2022, a proof of Coronavirus vaccine is no longer required for entry.

Do I still need to provide a negative Covid test or quarantine if I have been vaccinated? No. Quarantine or proof of a negative Covid test are no longer required, regardless of vaccination status.

Is a booster shot required for travel to Paris, France? As of August 2022, booster shots are no longer required for purposes of entry to France. There is currently no expiration period set for the validity of vaccinations.

What Covid testing options are available for travelers in Paris, France? U.S. Citizens can obtain a COVID-19 test at laboratories and testing centers in Paris. Covid-19 testing centers are also available for certain situations in Paris-Charles de Gaulle airport and Paris-Orly by appointment .

PCR tests generally cost between 50 and 100 euros, payable in advance. Results for the PCR test are available within 48 hours. Antigen tests cost 29 euros for those not covered by French social security; results are usually available within half an hour.

Testing centers in France can be found on this map.

What healthcare options are available to travelers in Paris, France who get the virus? Paris, France hospitals and clinics are open. Testing in labs and pharmacies is available to foreign visitors at their own expense.

For travel insurance that covers Covid, check out Nomad Insurance by Safety Wing >

What service businesses and restaurants are open in Paris, France?  Restaurants, bars, cafes, museums, parks, clubs, attractions (including the Eiffel Tower), and tours have reopened. Stadiums, arenas and other large-capacity venues are allowed to operate at full capacity. 

Are face masks required in Paris, France? Masks are no longer required in France but may still be required in medical facilities. Private businesses may make masks a condition of entry at their discretion, but this is rare. 

Are buses running in Paris, France? Public transportation is available in Paris. A health pass is not required.

Will France impose new Covid restrictions? What’s next is difficult to predict. Historically, most countries impose COVID-19 restrictions when strains on the health care system might become unsustainable.

How has the Coronavirus impacted Paris, France?

France has been one of the hardest hit countries in Europe and went into a series of national lockdowns. Case numbers spiked in Fall 2020, Spring 2021, and Summer 2021 with the Delta variant.

More than 130,000 people in the tourism sector lost jobs in France.

In June 2021, France reopened its borders to more countries outside of Europe with a color-coded system for entry requirements.

France State of Emergency ended in August 2022; France removed all Covid related restrictions for all travelers from any country. 

Over 90% of the population have been fully vaccinated.

For the current situation in Paris France, including: total COVID-19 positive cases; total cases in France; and COVID-19 testing in France, please see the French Department of Health site .

What should you pack for safely traveling in Paris France?

😷 Face Masks – Face coverings are recommended in crowded places. Find N95 masks at Bona Fide > or designer options at Vida >

💊 Medicine – Bring enough prescription and over-the-counter medication for your entire trip to avoid trips to the clinic.

💳 Vaccine Card Holder – Protect that paper CDC card when traveling abroad (if your country doesn’t offer a digital version). Get a simple plastic protector > or Vegan leather clippable > or Leather passport + card combo holder >

👃 Covid self-test – The most studied rapid antigen self-test with FDA emergency authorization.  NOT valid to enter countries. Use for your own peace of mind. Order from CVS > or Walmart >

💧 Sealed water bottle – Make sure your reusable water bottle has a lid that’s not exposed to the air. We use one of each of the following: Shop insulated water bottles with protective lid > Shop water bottles with purification filter and protective lid >

✈️ Travel insurance that covers Covid – We’ve started using Nomad Insurance by Safety Wing for affordable evacuation, international medical, and trip coverage.

What do Paris, France locals and recent travelers say about visiting Paris, France now?

What is it like to visit Paris, France right now? It’s our goal to provide regular updates here from real people on the ground, to help potential visitors know what to expect.

The following are subjective opinions only. Official travel guidance can be found above.

January 2024 – Agnes Groonwald of Travel on the Reg, resident of France:  “Tourism in Paris has seemed light since our move just outside of the city, but we also haven’t experienced the peak summer season yet. It’s still expected to book the big attractions (e.g. Louvre Museum) a few weeks ahead of travel, and dinner reservations remain a must at popular eateries.

September 2023 – Lauren of Pack and Paint, UK traveler:  “I caught the Eurostar from London to Paris for five days of sightseeing. Tourism in Paris is in full-swing post covid with adventurers from across the globe hitting up the French capital in their millions. Top tourist attractions such as the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre were busy which indicated a large tourism boom. 

In Paris, it felt like everyone had gone back to pre-covid times. Hardly anyone wore masks or followed social distancing. With large crowds at most tourist attractions, it would have been tough to follow covid related advice.”

June 2023 – Jori of The Tejana Abroad , expat:  “Summer in Europe is back and with it, all the usual summer crowds! Most attractions in Paris have opened up and are welcoming international visitors. If you’re still a bit wary of crowds after Covid though, maybe try to visit France during the lower seasons, such as fall and spring.

The majority of French citizens are vaccinated with booster shots, but the government is no longer testing international visitors. Healthcare in France is easy to access and if you fear you are infected, you are able to get tested at any nearby pharmacy. Local tourist attractions and restaurants are very crowded in the high season, but a nice alternative is ordering food to go and enjoying it in a picnic in the park.”

February 2023 – Laura Bronner of Eternal Expat , American traveler:  “I visited Paris for 4 days as part of a 10-day trip around France in February 2023. Paris feels completely back to normal. All museums and tourist attractions are back open with normal opening hours. The metro is clean and operating at normal and frequent times.

It was very busy when I visited in Feb 2023, especially at the biggest tourist sites like the Louvre, Eiffel Tower, and view points for these places. If you plan to visit in 2023, I highly recommend pre-booking tickets for the museums you want to go to with time slots and make sure to make reservations for restaurants you don’t want to miss, especially if you are traveling as a group of more than 2 people. If you don’t make a reservation, arrive at the time the restaurant opens for the best chance of getting a table for lunch or dinner service.

There is still easy access to testing at most pharmacies around Paris. You can definitely get the at-home tests at every pharmacy and many have testing centers outside the pharmacies which are conducted by pharmacists. There are no other restrictions on public transportation (no masks required, but they are “recommended” for public transport). There are lots of lines at museums and restaurants near the main attractions were incredibly busy.”

January 2023 – Amber Everywhere , American traveler: “Tourism seems to be back to normal in Paris, with large crowds in many of the most popular parts of the city. You’ll see masks and social distancing in some spaces, but most places are crowded and maskless. 

Testing appears to be widely available in Paris, with some visible testing tents throughout the city. There does not appear to be contact tracing in place, at least for crowded public spaces; locals did not mention any trouble accessing healthcare. Most local attractions appeared to be open, same with restaurants and other amenities. I didn’t notice any COVID-related restrictions, though many people chose to wear masks when in public areas (like the metro).”

September 2022 – Alyssa, American traveler: “We arrived in Paris with our two little kids, getting ready to caravan with some friends here in France. So far, I would say Paris is medium to low in terms of crowdedness. Public transit hasn’t been too packed. Everything is open and mask free for the most part.”

June 28, 2022 – Gretchen of Chasing Advntr , U.S. traveler : “We flew to Paris for several days as part of a month long European trip and to celebrate my twins birthday. We walked to all the major sites and while it was crowded, we had no trouble enjoying the attractions. We were glad we booked a river cruise and tickets to Musee D’Orsay in advance as tickets sold out for the river cruise and the museum line was at least an hour wait.

There were very few people wearing masks and maintaining social distance. Lines were long at the major attractions, but we never waited long for a table to eat. We also experienced a partial train strike which added to the difficulty of getting to the airport on already busy trains. Give yourself plenty of extra time to get to the airport.”

May 2022 – Mike C., American traveler: “Travel in Paris was pretty relaxed. There’s no more green pass or need to show vaccine card. Technically there were some rules on public transit to wear a mask. But it felt more like a choice as it was 50/50 on who did and didn’t. Transit was literally the only place with masking in Paris. Crowds felt like Paris is back to normal.”

March 9, 2022 – Erica of Nice French Things, French resident: “It’s the perfect time to visit Paris. Lines are short (or nonexistent) and monuments and tourist attractions are under capacity. Asian tourists have not returned yet and other Europeans are visiting their own countries they haven’t seen in the past 2 years.

Testing and tracing has been perfected here. Our vaccine pass will stop being required on Monday so we will be free to go to museums, theaters, restaurants without showing pass and we will not be required to wear masks. Pharmacies are the go-to for everything. Easy, fast, cheap tests done there. Paris area just reduced price permanently on regional rail tickets. Very advantageous for visitors.”

February 15, 2022 – Ingrid of Second Half Travels , U.S. traveler: “I’m spending 5 weeks in Paris and Montpellier currently studying French. COVID case numbers are dropping steeply in France. However, tourism numbers in February are still very low, so it’s a great time to visit to enjoy uncrowded museums and other sights.

My flight from Dallas to Paris in February was almost empty. I had a whole row of 9 seats to myself. Rapid and PCR tests are readily available at French pharmacies. It was easy and quick to get my Pass Vaccinal at an airport pharmacy when I arrived for 36 euros; I just showed my CDC vaccination proof of my vaccines and booster.

The Pass Vaccinal is supposed to be checked at all restaurants, museums, and long-distance trains. In practice, restaurants and trains sometimes fail to check. The Louvre and Musée d’Orsay in Paris were uncrowded: no large tour groups, only individual tourists from neighboring European countries like Spain. A Parisian friend told me, ‘You will never see Paris uncrowded like this again.’ I have actually extended my trip to add on more days in Paris to take advantage of this unique opportunity.”

October 23, 2021 – Jennifer A., American tourist: “ We had a fantastic time. We were very careful the entire week we were in Paris. Wore our masks everywhere and washed our hands a lot.  Instead of doing two or three things in a day, we just did one major tourist thing each day. To be honest, that made the trip more enjoyable. We used the Paris Museum Pass and that was great. I ordered the five day passes and they mailed them to me last month. A couple of the museums required us to book a time slot to get in. I was of course concerned about passing a COVID test 72 hours prior to returning to the U.S. My sister and I walked about 500 feet from our hotel to a pharmacy to take the COVID test. The cost was 25 Euros for each one of us. The gentleman in the pharmacy was so professional. We also received our results via email in about 30 minutes. Unbelievable. We were able to upload the COVID results to a VERIFLY app that American Airlines wanted us to use. It made things a lot easier to go home.  The French residents were all so nice to us. I am so glad we went.”

October 6, 2021 – Nick Winder, Illness To Ultra , American digital nomad: “I flew to Paris in order to transit to the south of France to visit family. Although there are still people visiting Paris, it’s obvious the tourist rates are reduced. Locals are more than welcoming, but the requirement of a health pass, even for foreign visitors proves challenge for both tourists, and local business owners. Nearly every local was compliant with city regulations, which is a must, especially considering public transport can still be busy. Access to testing and healthcare is abundant among pharmacies, although Sundays many pharmacies are closed. Most local attractions still remain open, although at a reduced capacity, but the reduced tourist level lines are not much of a problem. Just be aware that many attractions are ticketed.”

September 13, 2021 – Susan, US traveler: “ We’ve been in Paris almost 2 weeks finding it somewhat changed in several ways. We read that you can get the Passe Sanitiaire at pharmacies, yet, we’ve gone to more than I can count always being told that pharmacies are not providing them. At one yesterday, the owner said he believes that people were getting antigen tests at the pharmacy which gives a 72-hour Passe Sanitiaire. Tourists are few especially Americans. Some stores are permanently closed in touristy areas while nothing has changed in our neighborhood that is more residents of Paris.”

November 2021 – Roobens, French citizen in Paris, Been Around the Globe : “Everything reopened in May (bars, restaurants, gyms, clubs, etc.) in France. Meaning life is more or less back to normal. You just need to have a health pass to prove you’re fully vaccinated. And you have to wear a mask indoors (at the supermarket, when taking the metro, etc.). People are more than ready to travel in Europe only right now. Outside Europe it’s a different story since many borders are still closed. It’s very easy to get tested and to get vaccinated. There’s also an app for contact tracing, most people use it (it’s called “AntiCovid”). Everything is open (museums, restaurants, tourist attractions, etc.).”

September 2021 – Susan, traveling to Paris from US: “My husband and I flew to Paris in August-September 2021 for a 3 week visit with my daughter who lives there as a digital nomad. Tourists are very welcome if fully vaccinated. Major tourist attractions were uncrowded, though online ticket purchases are still recommended. Restaurants were full, especially the venues with large outdoor seating areas. (Travelers should be aware that diners frequently smoke in the outdoor areas.) Nevertheless, this may have been the best time in recent years to be in Paris, due to small crowd size.  Paris was very ready to serve customers in the time of Covid. The French population is >70% vaccinated and the digital vaccine passport works well for French residents (but not visitors). Visitors should bring their original vaccine card to get on the airplane, but a laminated photocopy worked well at every location.

A vaccine card (or proof of a negative Covid test within 72 hours) was required at every.single.sit-down eating establishment, hotel, museum, or major tourist destination. Proof was not required to ride public transportation.

Surgical (not cloth) masks are required in every indoor space. Indoor mask-wearing was being strictly followed, with an occasional scofflaw in the subways. Compliance was certainly better than most places in the US. Almost all restaurants had outdoor patio seating available, though the desirability of this may change as the weather cools. Take-out businesses and park-bench dining were thriving. I did not see evidence that contact tracing (in restaurants) was happening. There are Covid testing tents in most busy squares, but many are not accessible to non-residents because they don’t have the ability to charge the required fee there. Covid testing (required for return to the US, and elsewhere) can be done in pharmacies and labs. Your hotel desk may help you find a location. Caution – our results did not arrive via text, as promised, probably because we didn’t have a French phone number. We ended up waiting in a very slow line at the lab to get the results.”

August 30, 2021 – Melissa Suzuno , U.S. visitor: “I’m spending a week in Paris in late August/early September 2021 and my trip is just for fun but as a freelance writer, I’m also doing some work here.  I’m not sure if I’d really describe Parisians as “welcoming,” (haha) but tourism is alive and well in Paris. I did an Airbnb Experience and about half of the participants were French and half were American. The guide said that the number of Americans had decreased for a while but seems to be bouncing back. There are restrictions in place and they seem to be followed quite consistently. For example, you need to show your health pass (or recent negative COVID test) to eat in a restaurant (even outside) or enter a museum. Everywhere I’ve gone has enforced this. Local attractions like museums are open, but they recommend (and sometimes require) you to reserve your time in advance. I’ve gotten a few tests since I’ve been here (to get the temporary health pass). Tests are available in nearly any pharmacy and cost around 30 euros.”

June 2021 – Leyla, Offbeat France , French resident:  “I took a walking tour in the Marais a few days ago and we had one American tourist – the guide said it was her first of the season. Most tourists are French or European in Paris, but with the lockdown now lifted, a few Americans are beginning to arrive. In Paris, I’d say about 90% of people are following the rules. There is the occasional person who doesn’t cover their face in the subway or bus but they do get sideways looks from others. Everyone is masked in shops, because the owners will get fined otherwise. There’s usually plenty of gel at the door or at the cash register. In the streets, quite a few people still wear masks, considering that they are no longer mandatory. As the hot weather moves in, there will probably be fewer masks in the streets. The attached photo shows people do occasionally wear masks outdoors.”

June 2021 – Lena, Salut from Paris , French resident: “ Paris experienced a collective sigh in relief during the past weeks and enjoys the pure presence of normality – and travelers clearly belong to this normality.  Just a couple of weeks ago, the obligation to wear masks outdoors got lifted. Indoors, it is still mandatory and the vast majority is complying. Food services and attractions are open again. However, while the online booking service of attractions assures that the number of visitors is not exceeded, I observe often that bars and restaurants are way fuller than they should be. It is recommended in France that everyone, locals and travelers, are downloading the app #tousanticovid for tracing and alerts. If a visitor requires a covid test, they can easily get tested in pharmacies.”

May 2021 – Audrey, French Resident in Lyon: “Since May 19, the curfew is now starting at 9:00 pm. Restaurants (only outdoor dining), boutiques, movie theatres, museums… have re-opened, only accepting half of the possible guests (which means you need to book everything or wait long lines on the sidewalk). Travel between regions is fully allowed before curfew and after if you’re filing an exemption form (if your train or flight arrives at 9:30 pm for example). All French people over 50 are being vaccinated. Our next milestones are the following: – May 31: opening of vaccination to everyone – June 9: opening of indoor dining and more people allowed in boutiques and such. Of course, wearing a mask is still mandatory everywhere public, inside and out.”

Planning a trip to Paris France?

Check out our other Paris, France travel resources: – Preparing for a Budget Trip to France   – Where to Stay in Paris France: Best Neighborhoods Hotels Airbnbs – Travel Seasons: The Best Time to Visit Europe

If you have questions or updates about travel to Paris, France during the Coronavirus crisis or post-pandemic, please let us know in the comments below.

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Disclaimer: Please note, travel restrictions change frequently. Readers must take responsibility for verifying information through official sources like the State Department and CDC, in respect to their specific situations. No responsibility can be accepted by Intentional Travelers for action or inaction as a result of information provided through IntentionalTravelers.com. Any information provided here is issued as general information only.

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38 Comments

https://www.euronews.com/2022/03/03/covid-in-europe-france-to-scrap-face-masks-and-vaccine-passes-on-14-march

Looks like things may be loosening up by March 14th hopefully

Michelle, I have seen articles with Forbes, euro news & Reuters on the vaccine pass getting scrapped by March 14th in Paris except for in hospitals and on public transportation. Do you have any knowledge of this? Thanks Wendy

Hi Wendy! Thank you for visiting our blog. That information is correct. The French Government has recently announced that effective March 14, the vaccine pass will not be required to enter most businesses such as restaurants, bars, cafes, ski lifts, museums, cinemas and other cultural venues and theme parks. However, proof of vaccination will still be required in hospitals, retirement homes, and health centers.

I am a fully vaccinated/boosted American who will be arriving in Brest, France for one day, May 10, on a cruise ship followed with a one day stop in LeHavre, France on May 12. I’m aware of the French Vaccine Pass but can’t find anything about what is needed for a cruise ship arrival. Any help you can provide will be greatly appreciated.

Hi Susan. The French government does not specify restrictions for cruise ship passengers, therefore, the current entry rules for air travelers may also apply to travelers who want to go ashore in French ports. I understand that you are fully vaccinated/boosted, which is already compliant to France’s entry rules (you can find the details in our blog). Your cruise ship operator may also have information regarding entry rules to France. We will update our blog if the French government releases information regarding cruise ship arrivals. I hope this helps.

I just received this from Eurostar “You are considered fully vaccinated for travel purposes if you are aged 18 and over and: *you received a COVID-19 vaccine booster*

*you received the second dose of a two-dose vaccine at least a week ago, but no more than nine months ago*

So the important word here is “OR”. Sounds like it’s just what you said Michelle…thank you so much!!!

Thanks for following up, Debbi!

The new booster requirement is very confusing to me. I’ve read other articles where it says, if you don’t get a booster “within 9 months of original vaccine” then you’re considered unvaccinated.

I’m hoping you or someone you know can confirm this. My vaccination dates are as follows: Moderna – 4/5/2021 Moderna – 5/3/2021 Moderna Booster – 2/12/2022

Traveling at the end of March 2022 – As of now, will I be considered fully vaccinated and allowed to enter France? Or did I get the booster too late?

Thank you. Your article is very helpful!

Hi Katherine. We acknowledge that this requirement has been confusing. The way the official rule was translated in English makes it sound like the booster must be done *within* a certain timeframe. However, an expiration like this would be highly impractical and, in fact, most reporting on the requirement say more clearly: “Travelers aged 18 and over who had their full vaccine course over 9 months ago and have not since received a COVID-19 vaccine booster must follow the rules for unvaccinated passengers to enter France.” We have been researching this closely and have not seen any evidence of travelers being denied for a “late” booster, nor does France ever mention needing a second booster. We are keeping a close eye on this and will share any updates as they become available.

Thank you so much for your reply! I will keep a close eye on your page for any other updates.

Hello Michelle,

I am confused about the new protocol in France re: vaccinations and boosters. If I had my 2 vaccinations last Feb and March 2021 and then my booster 6 months later, am I considered “fully vaccinated”? Also, my adult son had his 2 vaccinations, the second being May 6th. He has not yet had his booster. I am reading that there is a 9 month expiration of his initial vaccinations so as of Feb 6 (3 days ago) he can no longer be considered “fully vaccinated” even if he gets his booster immediately?

Debbi, I hear you. This particular requirement can certainly be confusing, not to mention constantly changing. The way France has written the booster rule (“no later than nine months following the injection of the last required dose”) makes it sound like the booster must be done *within* 9 months of the second dose to enter France (or soon to be 4 months for the vaccine pass to enter restaurants). However, an expiration like this seems highly impractical and, in fact, most reporting on the requirement say more clearly: “Travelers aged 18 and over who had their full vaccine course over 9 months ago and have not since received a COVID-19 vaccine booster must follow the rules for unvaccinated passengers to enter France.” This would indicate that your son can be considered fully vaccinated once he gets a booster, even if the booster is done after 9 months. I’m assuming it’s just a translation/wording problem because I have not seen anywhere that travelers with “late” booster doses would lose any chance of being considered fully vaccinated. We are keeping a close eye on this and will share any updates as they become available.

Boosters every 4 months??! Wow

Yes, it seems to be the case. Like so many protocols, though, it could very well change.

I have a trip planned to Paris March 18,2022. I am reading that everyone needs to have the booster shot after being vaccinated for 4 months or you will not get the Vaccine Pass. Do you know if this rule is also mandatory for people going to France from the US? Some articles I have read say it is mandatory and others say it is not. Do you happen to know?

Thanks for your question Susie. I think part of the confusion is that the rules have changed recently. The following update is directly from the French government website in regards to foreigners vaccinated outside of France: “Since the 15th of January 2022, people aged 18 years and 1 month or more and who completed their initial vaccination scheme more than 7 months ago will need to present a proof of a booster dose to be eligible to receive a vaccine equivalency health pass.” I’m not sure why this site does not list the change to a 4 month rule that reportedly goes into effect in February. Perhaps confirmation is still forthcoming.

I am fully vaccinated. I had my booster in Dec. of 2021. I am going to France in June 2022, 6 months after my booster. Do I need a second booster in order to get in the country, or the receive the Health Certificate to allow me into restaurants and museums?

Hi Rebecca. We acknowledge that this requirement has been confusing. The way the official rule was translated in English makes it sound like the booster must be done *within* a certain timeframe. However, an expiration like this would be highly impractical and, in fact, most reporting on the requirement say more clearly: “Travelers aged 18 and over who had their full vaccine course over 9 months ago and have not since received a COVID-19 vaccine booster must follow the rules for unvaccinated passengers to enter France.” We have been researching this closely and have not seen any evidence of travelers being denied for a “late” booster, nor does France ever mention needing a second booster at this time. If you are boosted, you meet the current requirements to enter France and to receive the vaccine certificate. We are keeping a close eye on this and will share any updates as they become available.

I am wanting to plan a trip to take my 14 yr old daughter to Paris the last week of March 2022 on her spring break. I am fully vaccinated, but she is not. She has lab proof of antibodies – also sadly I’m being treated for a blood clot from my Covid vaccine which leads to my hesitation to vaccinate her. All of that aside- I see the paragraph that says travelers ages 11-17 are considered vaccinated if traveling with a fully vaccinated parent (I understand we would both need negative Covid test as well) I have read multiple other sites and I’ve seen this same info but have also seen on other sites everyone 12 & older must be vaccinated unless they’re going to quarantine for 10 days. Do you know what the policy is on this as we do not have 10 days to quarantine. IF she is able to come & not quarantine what would we do to get her a health pass or QR code to enter tourist sites? These are questions I cannot seem to clear up & I want to be sure before I would plan this. I am willing to email or call to France if I had the appropriate number and email contact. I’ve already sent an email a week ago through a government site and still do not have a response. Thank you in advance for any help/info you may have.

Thank you for visiting our blog. Current France travel rules states that “The measures applicable to fully vaccinated adults will be extended under the same conditions to minors accompanying them, regardless of vaccination status.” Since you are vaccinated, your 14-year-old daughter will be treated as vaccinated as well and will not need to quarantine. A negative test is however required for all travelers aged 12 and over. You can check the U.S. Embassy in France or the France Diplomacy websites for more information.

Regarding the health pass, persons age 12-15 require a health pass everywhere a vaccine pass is required. You can obtain a vaccine pass (or a health pass for your daughter) from designated pharmacies in France for a fee of up to 36 Euros (approximately 41.18 USD). You can check here for the map of designated pharmacies in France. You can check our blog for more information about the health pass and regular updates about France’s travel requirements. Hope this helps.

Thank you for your reply. As far as the health pass goes for my 14 yr old daughter, since she is not vaccinated am I understanding that in order for her to obtain one from the French pharmacies she will have to pass a Covid test every 24 hrs. for a fee of 36 euros each time to keep it active in order to be admitted into restaurants, museums, etc.? I have clicked on the map of pharmacies to actually check with one but everything on that page is in French. I am just making sure I understand this. Thank you

Wendy, an unvaccinated 14 year old would need a test within 24 hours in order to enter restaurants, attractions, and long-distance travel. She would not need to test daily unless you are visiting places where the pass is required each day. Antigen tests are 25 euros (36 was for the vaccine equivalent, sorry for the confusion). Here is a more direct link to pharmacy testing location map, you just have to keep clicking to zoom in on Paris: https://www.sante.fr/cf/carte-depistage-covid.html

Excellent information! Merci! It is January in the US right now and we are planning our trip to Paris for mid April 20 22 very excited but also so concerned because of the omicron variant now. I will follow your blog and see if any new postings are out as January comes to an end I am getting ready to book our trip now. Thanks again so much.

Great blog! Thanks for sharing paris travel restrictions, really helpful content.

I am planning a trip to Paris September 22 through 29th with a one day bus trip to Normandy. I understand that since I have a CDC proof of vaccination I do not need a test to enter France. However I do need a Travel Pass which would be obtained at a Pharmacy. I had read that the French government was paying for tests in order for tourists to return to their country of origin but not sure that is correct. My main question, does this process of receiving the Travel Pass work “smooth” or could there be snags. Same question for the required Covid-19 test upon returning, are there ample Pharmacy and testing sites for tourists? Has anyone taken a survey of recent travelers? Thank you

Thanks for visiting our blog. The French health pass for non-EU citizens is still relatively new and the protocols for visitors in September don’t seem to be fully established yet. Official guidance can be found here . At the moment, visitors coming before August 18 are able to submit their proof of vaccination by email before arrival to get the pass (a QR code). In case it’s not processed in time, getting tested in France is a temporary “back-up” method, valid for 72 hours. I’ve also seen that some travelers have been able to show their CDC vaccine card at a pharmacy in Paris to receive a QR code within 15 minutes, but I’m not sure how common that is yet. We will continue to seek out on-the-ground reports from recent travelers to find out how it’s going, and we’ll regularly update this post as we learn more.

We are scheduled to arrive Paris September 7, cruise to Normandy from the 9th through 16th, spend two more days in Paris, returning to U.S. on the 18th. The CDC and State Department alerts say “do not travel” and also warn about demonstrations and violence in tourist areas of major cities. We are in our 70s, fully vaccinated, but also cancer survivors. Should we cancel our trip?

I understand your concern. It’s a question I’ve been getting a lot lately with all the uncertainty around Europe travel so I wrote an article about it here: https://intentionaltravelers.com/should-i-reschedule-my-trip/ There is no right answer, as it depends on your values and risk tolerance, so I can’t really make that call for you. Demonstrations in Paris are certainly an additional factor to consider. But just to give some perspective… I’ve never been to Paris when there *wasn’t* a demonstration going by on my Uncle’s street, although they can vary in intensity. Usually protest locations are known so they can be avoided. However, if potentially dealing with that sounds too stressful, it may be a reason to cancel. Being fully vaccinated makes a huge difference but even so, cruising and travel in France during the pandemic is not without risk. Does the benefit of this trip outweigh that risk? Will worry get in the way of your enjoyment? That’s up to you.

Is there an app to use to show proof of vaccine status for visitors from outside the EU?

Thanks for your question. The E.U. vaccine app is only available to citizens and residents of the EU so far. Whether this will eventually be made available for non-EU tourists to facilitate travel in Europe is not yet clear, but we’ll be sure to update our blog posts here if that changes.

I am a US citizen planning a trip from USA to London and then to Paris. Is there any rules for US citizen traveling to Paris, via London by train?

Good question. Traveling through some countries to France can complicate the requirements. Whereas the U.S. is on the “green list”, the U.K. is on the “amber list” for France and the rules for the UK would apply since that’s where you’ll be departing from to enter France. Fully vaccinated travelers can enter France without an essential reason and would need to present a recent negative Covid test and proof of vaccination status. More details can be found here: https://www.diplomatie.gouv.fr/en/coming-to-france/coronavirus-advice-for-foreign-nationals-in-france/#sommaire_1

Hi Michelle,

It looks like France is no longer requiring a negative PCR test for vaccinated travelers from “Green” countries (the US included).

Or is it? Later on that page it states “(if you are aged 11 years or older) you agree to submit to a virological RT-PCR test for SARS-CoV-2 upon arrival in France.”

What are your thoughts?

Hi Ben. Thank you for visiting our blog. It is correct that France is no longer requiring a negative PCR test for fully vaccinated travelers from the United States and other Green countries. If a traveler (aged 11 years or older) from Green countries is not fully vaccinated, then a negative PCR or antigen test is required. A negative PCR or antigen test is also required for allowed travelers coming from “Orange” and “Red” countries.

A quick update from France: Since May 19, the curfew is now starting at 9:00 pm. Restaurants (only outdoor dining), boutiques, movie theatres, museums… have re-opened, only accepting half of the possible guests (which means you need to book everything or wait long lines on the sidewalk). Travel between regions is fully allowed before curfew and after if you’re filing an exemption form (if your train or flight arrives at 9:30 pm for example). All French people over 50 are being vaccinated. Our next milestones are the following: – May 31: opening of vaccination to everyone – June 9: opening of indoor dining and more people allowed in boutiques and such. Of course, wearing a mask is still mandatory everywhere public, inside and out.

Hi! Thanks so much for sharing these updates from France!

I have friends in Paris and I’m thinking about going next month…. Will the restrictions ease by then?

Hello and thank you for visiting our blog. I understand your concern about your trip next month, though we don’t have any special insight as to when protocols might change, beyond what we’ve already shared in the article. We will do our best to keep updating this post as the situation progresses.

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Is Paris Safe? Warnings and Dangers Travelers Need to Know

The Editors

We are the editors of SmarterTravel! Together we have appeared in countless travel publications including ABC News, Huffington Post, Travel + Leisure, USA Today, and more. We dedicate our days to creating and producing expert travel content, including packing tips, general travel advice, destination inspiration, and helpful videos. Follow us across social media on YouTube , Pinterest , Facebook , Instagram , and Twitter or drop us a line to say hi at [email protected]!

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There’s simply no place in the world like Paris. The undisputed hometown of romance is also a shining beacon of art, food, fashion, and utmost sophistication. But beyond its filigreed architecture and exceptional quality of light, is Paris safe?

In fact, the question of whether Paris is a safe place for travelers is a complicated one to answer. One respected ranking of the world’s most violent cities recently put Paris at number 96 in the world. Experts generally agree that France’s legendary capital remains a relatively safe destination, despite recent high-profile terror attacks, stabbings, and mass shootings.

According to the United States Department of State , crimes against visitors to Paris are most often “crimes of opportunity,” though officials add that the chances of violence increase after dusk, or when a criminal’s target tries to resist. They also increase or decrease depending on which neighborhood you’re in.

As of late, U.S. citizens have not been specifically targeted in France’s terror attacks. The risk of terror in Paris is considered high compared to other cities around the world, so travelers should always remain vigilant, and not hesitate to report any suspicious packages or activities.

Tips for Staying Safe in Paris

• Know where to stay—and where not to go. Certain Paris neighborhoods are much more prone to gang activity, hate crimes, and prostitution. Make sure not to find yourself near any of these dangerous spots.
• Guard yourself against pickpockets. This is by far the most rampant crime targeting tourists in Paris, and if you don’t take the proper precautions, don’t be surprised if you get ripped off.
• Though the Paris red light district has been romanticized somewhat (Moulin Rouge! Edgy sex shops!), the ugly reality is that prostitution is a crime in France, and it’s often accompanied by dangerous doings like human trafficking and drug deals.

Top Travel Safety Products for Paris

Anti-Theft Backpack

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Safe places—and places to avoid—in paris.

In Paris, gang-related violence is on the rise, and most tourists will want to avoid nighttime trips to the northern suburbs of Aubervilliers, Seine-Saint-Denis, and Saint-Ouen. In central Paris, avoid wandering late at night near Châtelet, Les Halles, Gare du Nord, Stalingrad, Jaures, and Barbès Rochechouart. Near Montmartre and Pigalle, La Goutte d’Or can also be dangerous after dark.

Seek accommodations in some of Paris’ safest neighborhoods. Right in the heart of the city, the 1st Arrondissement neighborhood on the Seine’s right bank is the home of the Louvre, the Jardins des Tuileries, and Place Vendome, and it’s considered very safe by most standards. So is the 3rd Arrondissement. The 4th, 5th, 6th, 7th, and 8th arrondissements are generally considered safe as well. The 16th Arrondissement, though farther out, is also much less susceptible to crime.

How to Get Around Safely in Paris

  There’s one type of criminal that you should always keep top of mind in Paris: pickpockets. They are rampant, especially at the most popular tourist sites, including the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, Montmartre, and the Champs-Élysées. Pickpockets are also all over the Metro, and may not be who you expect them to be—they can be women, and are also commonly under the age of 16. They often work in pairs—one member of the “team” distracts a tourist with questions or a disturbance while an accomplice lifts the desired items.

How to defend yourself from pickpockets in Paris? Keep wallets, passports, and phones—thieves’ most coveted items—close to your body and under wraps, especially on crowded trains. Backpacks and purses should be slash-resistant and zippered shut.

As for taxis, never get into an unmarked one. Make sure it’s marked with the words “TAXI PARISIEN,” which lets you know it’s official, and that the vehicle is properly maintained. Don’t go with anyone who offers you unauthorized transportation at airports or elsewhere.

Though Paris’ recent and tragic mass shooting events have been highly publicized, your chances of getting hit by a bullet are actually drastically lower in France than they are in the United States. Still, it’s good to know what to do in case you do encounter an active shooter situation: If there’s a clear escape route, do anything you need to do to get out of the situation immediately. If there’s not a way out, hide behind a solid object, as low as possible, quietly call the police, and then silence your phone.

The chances of natural disaster are very low in Paris. However, heavy rains into the Seine River do cause severe flooding occasionally, shutting down roads and necessitating evacuations.

If you find yourself in any type of emergency situation in Paris, dial 17 to reach city police or 112 to contact Europe’s emergency response number.

The Red-Light District and Prostitution in Paris

Paris’s red-light district is the Quartier Pigalle, which sits between the 9th and 18th Arrondissements. Pigalle is infamous for being one of Europe’s thriving centers of prostitution.

However, travelers to France need to know that prostitution is illegal in Paris—you’ll be punished by law if you’re caught engaging with sex workers. Pimps in Pigalle are extremely aggressive, and the district attracts plenty of other types of crime that are associated with prostitution, including human trafficking and slavery, drug use, and general violence. For those reasons, Pigalle is not generally on the tourist track, with the notable exception of the Moulin Rouge.

Another place to avoid is the Bois de Boulogne after dark. This upscale park in the 16th Arrondissement is mostly lovely by day. At night, however, it turns into an outdoor brothel, with prostitutes occupying many of the benches, waiting for clients to show up. Unfortunately, this is the case for many other public parks in Paris after dark as well—they transform into havens for prostitutes and other criminals, such as drug dealers, who have been known to commit assault.

If you stay away from prostitution in Paris, however, keep a tight hold on your belongings, and educate yourself about which neighborhoods to avoid, your trip to France is likely to be perfectly safe.

More from SmarterTravel:

• 10 Best Things to Do in Paris
• 25 Ways to Save on Paris Travel
• 12 Life-Saving Travel Hacks for Your Next Trip

—original reporting by Avital Andrews

We hand-pick everything we recommend and select items through testing and reviews. Some products are sent to us free of charge with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions and do not accept compensation to review products. All items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time of publication. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.

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France is open to Americans; Here's what it's like now and when to go

France reopened to international tourists , including vaccinated Americans, on Jun. 9, 2021. I covered the entry process last week and have been in France ever since, staying mostly in Paris.

I've gotten countless emails since publishing the entry article, most with one common theme: Is it worth visiting Paris right now? And the question makes sense since France has many coronavirus restrictions in place through the end of the month.

While I wish I could say that your Paris trip will look the same as in years past, that simply isn't the case. In fact, Paris isn't as open as many American cities like New York or Chicago . But, plenty of the city's charm is still there, and many of its strict lockdown measures have been eased.

Here, I'll discuss what you can do in Paris during the current phase of coronavirus restrictions.

Let's take a look!

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Current COVID-19 restrictions in Paris

Let's start with the bad news: There are still some strict COVID-19 restrictions in effect in Paris (and France as a whole). Here's a closer look at what these restrictions are and how they can affect your Paris vacation.

There's an 11 p.m. curfew throughout France

One of the biggest drawbacks to visiting Paris (or France) right now is the 11 p.m. curfew. Everyone — including tourists — are required to be in their home or hotel room between 11 p.m. and 6 a.m. every day. There is a 135 euro fine for evading this curfew that's strictly enforced throughout Paris.

That said, don't fret if you have an early flight or train to catch. There are plenty of exceptions to the curfew and you can get an electronic exemption slip online.

Many restaurants in Paris are operating past 11 p.m. but without seating. You can order delivery from popular apps like Uber Eats and Deliveroo. Likewise, many hotels continue room service past the curfew, so you won't go hungry if you need dinner or want a midnight snack.

This curfew is expected to be lifted on June 20 if case counts continue to trend downward. So with that in mind, you might want to postpone your trip until next month if you're a night-owl.

Related: The 11 hotel breakfasts we'd order for every meal if we could

Most things operate at a reduced capacity

Now for the good news: Pretty much everything is open in Paris. That said, everything is open at a limited capacity, so you'll want to make reservations for restaurants and museums. Most museums have online reservations while restaurants usually require you to call in for a reservation, but I've had no issue walking into most cafes and bistros.

Related: 15 things to see and do on your first trip to Paris

You'll need a health pass for large events

The French government notes that a digital Health Pass is required for all large events in France. Generally, this is for events with more than 1,000 people. This includes open-air venues, theaters and stadiums, so you'll likely need this for concerts and sporting events when they restart.

You can download the TousAntiCOVID app from the App Store or Google Play to set up your pass. This pass shows vaccination status or a recent negative COVID test, but I haven't had any luck adding my CDC-issued vaccine card to the app yet. Thankfully I haven't needed a Health Pass thus far on the trip. If you need it for an event, you may need to get a negative COVID-19 test in France.

Related: Your guide to vaccine passports

Yes, masks are still required

Masks are still required in France. You must wear a mask at all indoor venues, including shops, cafes and restaurants. That said, you can take your mask off when eating or drinking. In practice, most locals aren't wearing masks once seated at any type of dining establishment.

Related: Masks still required during air travel as CDC loosens indoor mask guidelines for fully vaccinated people

Getting around Paris (and France)

Transportation in and around Paris (and France as a whole) is largely operating as normal. Here's my experience getting around the city.

The Paris Metro is running as normal

I've used the Paris Metro for the majority of my trips around town. It's operating as normal and on time. You'll find that many Metro cars are packed during peak times, so avoid rush hour if you're not into crowds. You can still purchase Metro tickets at all stations and take the RER train from Paris (CDG) to the city center.

Related: 10 things no one tells you about… Paris

National trains are still available

Headed to Nice, Bordeaux or another part of France after Paris? Don't fret — the SNCF is running trains all over the country. I took the train from Paris to Nice earlier this week and it was on time with zero issues. Just note that there are no blocked middle seats or other precautions taken, so you may want to rent a car or purchase a first-class ticket to avoid crowds.

Related: Tips for train travel and transportation in France

There's an Uber shortage, so download Bolt too

Like in many U.S. cities , there's an Uber shortage in Paris. Prices are high and it often takes 10+ minutes to find a ride if you're in the city center. I highly recommend downloading a European rideshare app like FreeNow or Bolt to use if you can't find an Uber. I've had good luck with Bolt and used it a couple of times during my trip.

Related: An Uber driver talks how to get the VIP treatment and be a better traveler in 2021

What you can do in Paris right now

Despite the restrictions, there is plenty to do in Paris. Here's a look at what you can do, see and eat in the French capital.

Restaurants, cafes, bars and bistros are open

Pretty much all dining establishments are open across Paris. They're allowed to be open at full capacity outdoors and half capacity indoors. Currently, bar seating is prohibited and there is a maximum of six guests per table.

I've noticed that all of these rules are under very limited enforcement, so your experience may vary depending on where you eat and drink. You'll find particularly large crowds at outdoor cafes on Friday nights after work. Midday crowds are about what they were pre-pandemic on cafe patios.

Related: 11 of the most Instagrammable cafés in Paris

Most museums are open, but you'll need a reservation

Museums are open, but with a capacity limit of one visitor per 4 square meters. You need to make a reservation for most museums on their website. I had no issue getting a ticket to the Louvre the weekend before my trip. That said, the Louvre had large crowds around premier exhibits like the Mona Lisa, but mask compliance was strictly enforced.

Unfortunately, some famous landmarks like Eiffel Tower remain closed until next month. You can still see them from the outside, but interior tours are still suspended. I'm hopeful that these will reopen on schedule so long as COVID-19 cases continue to trend downward in France.

Related: How to avoid soul-crushing crowds at the Louvre

Shops are operating as normal

Shops are operating as normal until the 11 p.m. curfew. This includes everything from designer clothes stores to the neighborhood grocery store. You'll have no problem getting your shopping fix in Paris.

Related: 8 hot shopping destinations in the world's most fashionable cities

The hotel experience is largely unchanged

One thing that hasn't changed is the hotel experience in Paris. I stayed at three different hotels during my time in the city and each had open dining facilities, housekeeping and everything you'd expect from a pre-pandemic hotel experience. Just make sure to wear a mask in common areas.

Unlike Iceland , French hotels aren't requiring proof of vaccination at check-in. All you need to do is show your passport and credit card, as usual. This means check-in is quick and easy and you don't have to rustle through your bag to find other paperwork.

Don't worry — you'll hear more about my Paris hotel experiences in two upcoming reviews .

Related: 10 of the best points hotels in France

COVID-19 testing in Paris

Another thing readers have asked me is where they can get a COVID-19 test in Paris in order to return to the U.S. Truthfully, I'm writing this while still in France, so I haven't been tested for my return yet. But I've done a bit of research and have a good understanding of how to get a test in Paris.

Either a PCR or rapid antigen test are acceptable types of tests for return to the U.S. In my experience, these tests are checked at flight check-in and not at the U.S. border. Your test must be less than 72 hours old to be considered valid.

Antigen tests are relatively easy to come by in Paris. I saw a testing booth set up outside of the Operá Metro stop last week, so you may want to check if you're staying at a nearby hotel (like the Park Hyatt Paris-Vendôme ).

You can also find antigen testing at most pharmacies around Paris and other French cities. Pricing varies, but shouldn't be more than roughly 30 euros for foreigners not covered by French health insurance.

Further, there are testing centers at both Paris-Charles de Gaulle (CDG) and Paris-Orly (ORY) airports. These offer both PCR and antigen tests, with one- to two-hour turnarounds for antigen tests. You may consider getting to the airport early and getting a test before your flight if you can't find a test in town. Check the Paris airport website for more info. An antigen test at the airport costs 20 euros.

Related: Traveling soon? Here's where you can quickly get a COVID-19 PCR test for travel

Bottom line

Traveling to Paris right now gives you a unique opportunity to see the French capital with few tourists. At the same time, the curfew makes it limiting for night-owls. Personally, I'd wait a week and go once some of the remaining restrictions have been lifted.

At the same time, those who decide to make the trip now will have no shortage of things to do and see both in Paris and outside of the city. The Louvre and other famous museums are open and Paris' famous cafes and bistros are waiting to serve you an espresso (or a glass of wine).

Regardless of current restrictions, it's great to see life in the streets of Paris after months of lockdown. I thoroughly enjoyed my time in the city and am excited to return later this year as a part of a larger European itinerary.

Bon voyage!

Feature photo by Andrew Kunesh / The Points Guy

Is It Safe in Paris?

For first-time and repeat visitors, Paris casts an idyllic glow that promises a quintessentially French experience and the city is generally safe for tourists as long as you stay cognizant of pickpockets and scammers. These petty thieves tend to prey on tourists in crowded parts of the city, in restaurants, and on the metro.

Paris has also been the target of terrorist attacks in the past and the U.S. State Department warns that travelers should "practice increased caution" in the city, as well as other parts of France .   It's also worth noting that while Paris and the whole of France are considered to be quite progressive places, there's a chance that BIPOC, Muslim, Jewish, and LGBTQ+ travelers could encounter discrimination or harassment. However, many note that these kinds of offenses are more likely to happen outside of the main touristic areas.

Is Paris Dangerous?

Paris has seen terrorist attacks in the past, but it is not a daily reality for the city. For the average traveler, pickpocketing is the most prevalent form of crime that targets tourists in the French capital. As a consequence, you should always be vigilant with your personal affairs, especially in crowded areas such as trains, metro stations, and any popular tourist areas. If you find yourself in an unsafe part of the city after dark, such as the suburbs north of Paris, you should refrain from wearing highly-visible jewelry or clothing that may identify you as a member of a religion or political movement.

Is Paris Safe for Solo Travelers?

Paris is a great city for solo travelers and it's very safe when walking around during the day. However, solo travelers, especially women, should stay vigilant when walking around at night and stick to well-lit areas. Especially when traveling alone, avoid areas around metro Les Halles, Pigalle, Gare du Nord, Stalingrad, and Jaures late at night or when the streets appear empty. While generally safe, these areas have at times been known to harbor gang activity or to be the site of hate crimes.   If it is very late at night, you would be wise to take a taxi instead of the metro. Women should avoid smiling at or making prolonged eye contact with men they do not know: in France, this is could be interpreted as an invitation to make advances.

Safety Tips for LGBTQ+ Travelers

Paris is an extremely liberal city and LGBTQ+ travelers generally have no issues while walking around the city center and exploring the LGBTQ+ nightlife scene , but that doesn't necessarily mean that homophobia doesn't exist in the city and there have been a few troubling incidents of violence in the past. Paris is the city of love but unfortunately, judgment-free public displays of affection are still a privilege that heterosexual couples take for granted. Although LGBTQ+ couples can generally feel safe expressing themselves in gay-friendly neighborhoods like the Marais and even at major tourist attractions, there is always a slight risk of encountering homophobia from a passerby.

Safety Tips for BIPOC, Jewish, and Muslim Travelers

Paris may have a reputation for being a progressive and diverse city and is generally a safe and accepting city. However, BIPOC, Jewish, and Muslim travelers should be aware of any recent incidents that might indicate a rise of intolerance in Paris. Paris is a diverse city made up of immigrant communities from all over the world, approximately 30 percent of which come from African countries.   For BIPOC travelers, visiting Paris is generally pretty safe, although there was a rise in racism against Asians after the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.  

Paris has one of Europe's largest and most vibrant Jewish histories and communities, and Jewish travelers should feel safe in a city that in many quarters and instances celebrates Jewish culture. Although in 2018 the French Interior Ministry reported a 28 percent increase in antisemitic attacks   on Jewish places of worship and business in Paris, no attacks on tourists of the Jewish faith have been reported.

France has one of the largest Muslim communities in Europe   and while reports show that Islamophobia is on the rise in France, Paris tends to be more accepting than the rest of the country. Generally, travelers say that Paris is Muslim-friendly   but it's worth remembering that the subject of religious head and face coverings is still a heated topic in France. Since 2010, it is illegal in France to wear a burqa, and Muslim women are sometimes harassed in Paris for wearing a hijab.  

Safety Tips for Travelers

• Never leave your bags or valuables unattended in the metro, bus, or other public areas. Not only do you risk theft by doing so, but unattended bags may be considered a security threat and can be immediately destroyed by security officials.
• Money belts are excellent ways to protect yourself. Also, avoid having more than $100 in cash with you at a time. If your hotel room includes a safe, consider using it to store valuables or cash. 
• Pedestrians should be especially careful while crossing streets and busy intersections. Drivers can be very aggressive in Paris and traffic laws are frequently broken. Even when the light is green, take extra caution while crossing the street. Also watch out for cars in certain areas that seem pedestrian-only (and perhaps are, in theory).
• When traveling by taxi, make sure to verify the minimum price of the taxi ride before getting in the taxi. It is not uncommon for Paris taxi drivers to overcharge unsuspecting tourists, so be sure to watch the meter, and ask questions if you must. Also, giving the driver a suggested route ahead of time with the aid of a map is a good idea.

U.S. Department of State . "France Travel Advisory."

Tripadvisor. "Paris: Safety on the Metro (RATP and RER)." Retrieved on December 22, 2020.

Sud Quest. " Qui sont les nouveaux immigrés qui vivent en France ? " February 12, 2014.

BBC News. " Coronavirus: French Asians hit back at racism with "I'm not a virus ." January 29, 2020.

The JC. "Antisemitic attacks surge in Paris." February 9, 2018.

Pew Research Center. " Europe's Growing Muslim Population ." November 29, 2017.

Mr. & Mrs. Halal. " The Most Handy Paris Travel Guide For Muslim Travelers ." July 30, 2018.

CBS. "France will still ban Islamic face coverings even after masking." May 12, 2020.

Is It Safe in Germany?

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Is it safe to travel to Paris during strikes and protests?

A general strike is set to take place across france on thursday 23 march 2023, article bookmarked.

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Protests and strike action have swept across France in recent months following President Emmanuel Macron ’s attempts to push through a controversial pension reform bill without a vote in the lower house.

Workers across the transport, education, fuel and utility sectors have walked out in protest of the bill, which would push the retirement age from 62 to 64.

Industrial action by sanitation workers has resulted in giant stacks of rubbish piling up in the French capital, plus Marseille , Nantes and Angers, a visible (and pungent) symbol of the resentment felt by public-sector workers.

And on Thursday (23 March), another general strike is set to take place across France, with further disruption expected.

But is it safe to travel to Paris during this period of protest and strikes? Here’s everything you need to know.

Is it safe to travel to Paris amid strikes and protests?

France has a proud reputation of being a nation unafraid of taking to the streets to make its disdain for political processes felt.

While recent protests have been significant in their scale, protests are not an uncommon sight in France, particularly in the capital.

Last weekend, police clashed with protesters after they lit a fire in the Place de la Concorde near the National Assembly building in Paris.

Footage showed police firing tear gas at protesters, while hundreds of people were arrested.

And on Friday (17 March), police pepper-sprayed students near the Sorbonne University.

Current guidance from the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) advises visitors to avoid demonstrations and remain vigilant.

“On 16 March, large-scale demonstrations started in central Paris and elsewhere in France and police presence increased.

“Protests could turn violent and/or continue. These could lead to disruptions to road travel.

“You should monitor the media, check the latest advice with operators before travelling, avoid demonstrations and follow the advice of local authorities.”

It adds: “If demonstrations do turn violent, a heavy police/gendarmerie presence is to be expected. In all cases, you should avoid demonstrations wherever possible and follow the advice of the local authorities.”

Travellers visiting Paris should avoid the Place de la Concorde, situated between the Champs-Élysées and the Jardin des Tuileries (the park adjacent to the Louvre) in the eighth arrondissement and the National Assembly, which are assembly points for the protests.

How will travel be affected?

Transport services across France are likely to be severely impacted by the general strike.

Eurostar has confirmed it will be running a revised service on Thursday 23 March, with eight services currently cancelled – click here to see the full list.

In a statement, Ryanair said it was expecting possible cancellations and delays on flights to and from France from 20 to 23 March.

“Any affected passengers will be notified as soon as possible,” it said.

“Ryanair advises all passengers to monitor their Ryanair app and the Ryanair website for the latest updates regarding their flight.

Elsewhere, the French Civil Aviation Authority (DGAC) has asked airlines to reduce their flight schedules to and from Paris Orly and certain French airports as a result of the strike action.

In a statement, Air France said: “Air France plans to operate on these days 95 per cent of its flight schedule, including all its long-haul flights and its flights to and from Paris Charles de Gaulle.

“Last-minute delays and cancellations cannot be ruled out.

“The flight schedule is updated and customers affected by cancelled flights are notified individually by SMS and e-mail.”

Anyone planning to travel to France over the next 48 hours should check with their provider ahead of departure.

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COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

France travel advice

Latest updates: The Need help? section was updated.

Last updated: June 26, 2024 09:15 ET

On this page

Safety and security, entry and exit requirements, laws and culture, natural disasters and climate, france - exercise a high degree of caution.

Exercise a high degree of caution in France due to the elevated threat of terrorism.

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"Attack emergency" alert

On March 24, 2024, the Prime Minister of France raised the security threat level within the “Vigipirate” plan to “urgence attentat” (“attack emergency”). This is the highest level in the Vigipirate plan, a set of measures to prepare and protect the population and public places. The decision was made following a terrorist attack in Moscow claimed by the Islamic State.

Always be aware of your surroundings when in public places. Be particularly alert during public gatherings and demonstrations.

If you are in France:

• expect enhanced security measures and an increased police presence at the border and in public places
• monitor local media for the most recent information
• follow the instructions of local authorities

Vigipirate plan – Government of France (in French)

Legislative elections

Legislative elections are scheduled for June 30 and July 7, 2024. Political rallies and demonstrations could occur before, during, and after the elections.

• Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• Follow the instructions of local authorities
• Monitor local media for the latest information

Olympic and Paralympic Games

The Olympic Games will take place in Paris from July 26 to August 11, followed by the Paralympic Games from August 28 to September 8, 2024.

Public events will take place across France starting on May 8 and will continue until the opening ceremony.

If you plan to travel to France during this time, plan your travel accordingly.

During the Olympic Games, especially in Paris, you should expect:

• an increased presence of security forces
• major disruptions to traffic and movement
• large crowds and public gatherings

Useful links

• Games-related information and advice for Canadians
• Olympic and Paralympic Games Paris 2024 – official site

There is a threat of terrorism in Europe. Terrorists have carried out attacks in several European cities.

Over the past few years in France, several opportunistic and premeditated attacks have occurred. These have resulted in many deaths and injuries. Further attacks are likely.

Vigipirate plan

The Vigipirate plan is a set of measures established by the French government to prepare and protect the French population, infrastructure and institutions in the event of an attack. The aim is also to allow rapid deployment of intervention measures if necessary.

As part of this plan, the government maintains a 3-level public alert system for terrorism. Changes in the threat level are communicated online and through local and national media.

Operation sentinelle

Operation Sentinelle allows the deployment of military brigades in public places to patrol and deter terrorist acts. Enhanced security measures have been deployed in various strategic locations, including:

• transport hubs
• public places
• tourist locations, especially in Paris

Expect an increased police or military presence in public places, including some tourist locations, particularly in Paris.

Attacks can occur anywhere. Terrorists may target:

• government buildings and those of local authorities
• schools/universities
• places of worship
• places dedicated to culture, such as exhibition galleries, museums, concert halls and theatres
• airports, railway stations and other transportation hubs and networks
• public areas such as tourist attractions, monuments, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, shopping centres, markets, hotels and other sites frequented by foreigners

While in France:

• always be aware of your surroundings when in public places
• be particularly vigilant if attending large gatherings such as sporting events and religious celebrations or other public celebrations
• Information on the terrorist threat in France - Ministry of the Interior (in French)
• How to react in case of a terrorist attack - Government of France (in French)
• Social media accounts of the Ministry of the Interior - Ministry of the Interior (in French)
• Vigipirate  – General secretary of defense and national security (in French)

Petty crime

Petty crimes, such as pickpocketing, and purse and mobile phone snatching are common.

Thieves are very skilled. They often act in groups and are often minors. They may use various techniques to divert your attention and steal your belongings.

Thieves are mainly active in large cities and busy places, such as:

• the main tourist sites
• department stores
• restaurants and patios
• hotel lobbies
• public transport, in particular the Paris metro and the Île-de-France regional express network (RER) lines linking the capital to its surroundings

Violent crimes

Violent crimes are rarer, but still occur.

Tourists are sometimes victims of violent attacks by groups of young people who want to rob them. These attacks usually occur :

• around major tourist attractions
• near railway stations
• on trains of the Île-de-France regional express network (RER) connecting the capital to its surroundings

Assaults can also occur outside night-time establishments and in more isolated areas at night.

Residential break-ins

Residential break-ins occur, especially in large cities and coastal areas. Burglars sometimes target houses or holiday rental apartments.

• be vigilant, particularly when approached by strangers
• ensure that your belongings, including passports and other travel documents, are secure at all times
• avoid showing signs of affluence and carrying large sums of cash
• limit the use of mobile phones on public transportation and in crowded areas to ensure you remain aware of your surroundings and to avoid attracting attention
• don’t keep your credit, debit cards and cash in the same place
• never leave your bags unsupervised
• choose well-secured accommodation and make sure you lock doors and windows at night and when you’re away

Parked vehicles and vehicles on the road

Vehicle break-ins are frequent. Theft of parked cars or their contents is particularly common on beach roads in the south of France and at highway rest stops throughout the country, especially during the summer, when there is a high number of travellers.

• Leave nothing in view in the vehicle
• Use secure parking facilities
• Be particularly vigilant when renting automobiles, as rented vehicles are a target of choice

Drivers are often tricked into stopping their cars by thieves who either obstruct the road or distract the driver by flashing their headlights. They may also pretend that you have a flat tire or even puncture a tire themselves. Once the vehicle is stopped, the thieves seize the opportunity to steal a bag or other valuable objects.

• Beware of any person who waves at you to stop on the highway
• Be especially vigilant when stopped at traffic lights, as bags are often snatched from the front passenger seat by thieves travelling on scooters
• Keep windows closed and doors locked at all times

Victims of crime

If you’re a victim of theft, go to the nearest police station to report the crime. Keep a copy of your theft report, as you will need it if you wish to make a claim to your insurer. If the incident takes place in the metro, a metro officer can direct you to the nearest police station.

You can complete an online pre-complaint for certain types of minor crime, such as property theft, before going to the police station. This may speed up the process once you get there.

• Prevention advice for tourists - Préfecture de police de Paris
• Online pre-complaint - Ministry of the Interior (in French)

Bomb threats

Since October 2023, there have been a number of bomb threats sent to public places across France.

Bomb threats and hoaxes can target any location, including:

• tourist areas
• shopping centres
• transportation hubs
• government facilities
• religious institutions

If you are in an area targeted by a bomb threat, follow the instructions of local authorities including evacuation orders.

Credit card and ATM fraud

Credit card and ATM fraud occurs.

When using debit or credit cards:

• pay careful attention if other people are handling your cards
• use ATMs located in public areas or inside a bank or business
• avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature
• cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN
• check for any unauthorized transaction on your account statements

Cybercrime occurs. Perpetrators may compromise public Wi-Fi networks to steal credit card or personal information.

• Avoid using unsecured public Wi-Fi networks
• Avoid making purchases on unencrypted websites
• Be cautious when posting information on social media
• Be particularly vigilant when contacting or meeting individuals known over the internet

Overseas fraud

Demonstrations

Demonstrations occur frequently. They are usually planned as permission from the local authorities is required. However, unauthorized and spontaneous demonstrations also take place.

Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

Radical activists and vandals have a history of using aggressive and violent tactics during demonstrations in order to cause damage and provoke a strong response from the police. They sometimes throw stones, smoke grenades, bottles and other debris at rallies. The police normally respond with tear gas to disperse the crowds.

• Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Strikes and pressure tactics occur regularly, particularly in key sectors such as transport. These strikes can sometimes complicate travel and disrupt public services.

• Consult local media to be aware of strikes that may affect your stay or travel plans
• In the event of a transport strike, plan extra time to get to your destination

Swimming, boating and water safety

Coastal waters can be dangerous. Always obey warning flags at beaches.

The main warning flags used in France are:

• Green: calm waters, swimming is allowed
• Yellow: agitated waters, swim with precautions
• Red: dangerous waters, swimming is prohibited
• Purple: contaminated waters or presence of dangerous aquatic species, swimming is prohibited

In autumn and winter, be cautious when walking on the shore, as waves can be unpredictable, breaking further than expected and causing strong undertows.

• Avoid visiting beaches or coastal areas during periods of severe weather warnings
• Look out for signs warning of cliff erosion and falling rocks
• Don’t dive into unknown waters, as hidden rocks or shallow depths can cause serious injury or death
• Exercise caution and follow the advice of the local authorities

Recreational boating

If you are planning to go boating:

• know the capacity of your boat (people and weight) and don’t exceed it
• know the navigation rules
• follow safe practices for all activities on the water: personal watercraft, water-skiing and towed devices, diving or swimming, fishing, etc.
• equip your boat with a VHF marine radio that will generate your position in case of emergency
• be prepared for emergencies

Search and rescue missions in France are carried out by the Regional Operational Surveillance and Rescue Centres (CROSS). In case of emergency, contact the centre on VHF radio channel 16 or by dialling 196.

• Surveillance and rescue at sea - Ministry of the Sea (in French)
• Water safety abroad

Mountain activities

Mountain activities, such as hiking, can be dangerous, especially if they are not well prepared. Trails are not always marked and weather conditions can change rapidly, even in summer.

In winter, heavy snowfall can make it difficult to reach some villages and ski centres. Roads may become impassable. There is also a risk of avalanches, some of which can be fatal.

If you intend to go hiking, mountaineering or skiing:

• never do so alone and do not part with your hiking companions
• buy travel insurance that includes helicopter rescue and medical evacuation
• ensure that your physical condition is good enough to meet the challenges of your activity
• do not venture off marked trails or slopes
• ensure that you’re adequately equipped
• stay informed about weather and other conditions that may pose a hazard
• inform a family member or friend of your itinerary
• know the symptoms of acute altitude sickness, which can be fatal
• obtain detailed information on your activity and on the environment in which you will be doing it before setting out
• Information on mountain conditions - Association nationale pour l'étude de la neige et des avalanches (ANENA) (in French)
• Specialised mountain units - Gendarmerie nationale (in French)
• Avalanche forecasts and warnings - European Avalanche Warning Service (EAWS)

Road safety

French roads are well maintained.

Drive carefully and respect the Highway Code.

Public transportation

Urban and intercity public transportation is reliable. When using these types of transport, make sure you validate your ticket and keep it until the end of your journey. The authorities carry out regular random checks and you may be fined if you do not have a validated ticket.

There is a problem of illegal taxis in Paris airports and train stations. These scammers charge much higher rates than the official ones.

• Ignore direct solicitations when leaving the airport or train station
• Use only official taxis or a trusted ride-sharing app
• Don’t share a taxi with strangers

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the French authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the  Foreign Representatives in Canada .

• Schengen area

France is a Schengen area country. Canadian citizens do not need a visa for travel to countries within the Schengen area. However, visa-free travel only applies to stays of up to 90 days in any 180-day period. Stays are cumulative and include visits to any Schengen area country.

If you plan to stay in the Schengen area for a longer period of time, you will need a visa. You must contact the high commission or embassy of the country or countries you are travelling to and obtain the appropriate visa(s) prior to travel.

• Foreign Representatives in Canada

Temporary border controls

The French government has reintroduced internal border controls at certain ports of entry. You may be required to pass through immigration controls when entering France, even if arriving from another Schengen area country.

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for at least 3 months beyond the date you expect to leave the Schengen area.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports

Tourist visa: not required for stays up to 90 days in any 180-day period Long-stay or residency visa: required for stays longer than 90 days Work permit: required Student visa: required for stays longer than 90 days

More information on Visas - Government of France

Other entry requirements

Customs officials may ask you to show them a return or onward ticket and proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay.

• Children and travel

To leave France, any child under the age of 18 who normally resides in France must be accompanied by at least one parent. Children travelling without at least one parent must be in possession of:

• an authorization to leave the country signed by one of the parents
• a photocopy of the signing parent’s identification
• More information on the authorization to leave the country - French administration services
• More about travelling with children

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Relevant Travel Health Notices

• Global Measles Notice - 13 March, 2024
• Zika virus: Advice for travellers - 31 August, 2023
• COVID-19 and International Travel - 13 March, 2024
• 2024 Summer Olympics and Paralympics – France - 6 June, 2024

This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.

Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your  routine vaccinations , as per your province or territory , are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary. 

Yellow fever is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.

Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.

• There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.

Country Entry Requirement*

• Proof of vaccination is not required to enter this country.

Recommendation

• Vaccination is not recommended.

* It is important to note that country entry requirements may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.

About Yellow Fever

Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada

Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) is a risk in some areas of this destination. It is a viral disease that affects the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord). It is spread to humans by the bite of infected ticks or occasionally when unpasteurized milk products are consumed.

Travellers to areas where TBE is found may be at higher risk  during April to November, and the risk is highest for people who hike or camp in forested areas.

Protect yourself from tick bites . The vaccine is not available in Canada. It may be available in the destination you are travelling to.

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.

Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.

  Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus.  Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.

Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.

 The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot at least 2 weeks before travelling.  

 The flu occurs worldwide. 

•  In the Northern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs from November to   April.
•  In the Southern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs between April and   October.
•  In the tropics, there is flu activity year round. 

The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.

The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.

In this destination, rabies  may be present in some wildlife species, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. 

If you are bitten or scratched by an animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. 

Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who will be working directly with wildlife. 

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

• Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
• Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
• Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs. 

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

• Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
• Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
• Minimize exposure to insects
• Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

• In this country, risk of  dengue  is sporadic. It is a viral disease spread to humans by mosquito bites.
• Dengue can cause flu-like symptoms. In some cases, it can lead to severe dengue, which can be fatal.
• The level of risk of dengue changes seasonally, and varies from year to year. The level of risk also varies between regions in a country and can depend on the elevation in the region.
• Mosquitoes carrying dengue typically bite during the daytime, particularly around sunrise and sunset.
• Protect yourself from mosquito bites . There is no vaccine or medication that protects against dengue fever.

Zika virus is a risk in this country. 

Zika virus is primarily spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. It can also be sexually transmitted. Zika virus can cause serious birth defects.

During your trip:

• Prevent mosquito bites at all times.
• Use condoms correctly or avoid sexual contact, particularly if you are pregnant.

If you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, you should discuss the potential risks of travelling to this destination with your health care provider. You may choose to avoid or postpone travel. 

For more information, see Zika virus: Pregnant or planning a pregnancy.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette , which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

•   washing your hands often
• avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
• avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness 

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) , HIV , and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.  

Medical services and facilities

Health care is excellent and available throughout the country. Up-front payment may be required.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Travel health and safety

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a   travel health kit , especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad .

Transfer to a Canadian prison

Canada and France are signatories to the Convention on the Transfer of Sentenced Persons. This enables a Canadian imprisoned in France to request a transfer to a Canadian prison to complete a sentence. The transfer requires the agreement of both Canadian and France authorities.

This process can take a long time, and there is no guarantee that the transfer will be approved by either or both sides.

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect jail sentences or heavy fines.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

Identity checks

You may be subject to identity checks during your stay in France.

Always carry valid identification such as a driver's licence, passport or a copy of it.

Keep photocopies or digital copies of the following documents, in case of loss or seizure:

• the identification page of your passport
• your birth certificate
• your Canadian citizenship card
• your driver’s licence

Keep originals and copies in separate safe locations.

Concealing your face in public places

In France, it’s illegal to cover your face in public places, including international airport arrivals areas.

Offenders risk a very high fine. There is no exemption for tourists or for religious reasons.

• Identity checks - French administration services
• Concealment of the face in public places - French administration services

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is legally recognized in France.

If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of France, our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you're there. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements .

Travellers with dual citizenship

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. The convention applies between Canada and France.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in France, and if the applicable conditions are met, you may apply for the return of your child to the French court.

If you are in this situation:

• act as quickly as you can
• contact the Central Authority for your province or territory of residence for information on starting an application under The Hague Convention
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in France to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children's Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country's judicial affairs.

• List of Canadian Central Authorities for the Hague Convention
• International Child Abductions: A guide for affected parents
• The Hague Convention – Hague Conference on Private International Law
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Request emergency assistance

You must be at least 18 years old to drive a car in France.

You should carry an International Driving Permit. You can drive with your Canadian licence for up to 1 year. If you stay in France, you will have to exchange your Canadian licence for a French licence.

Numerous roadside cameras have been installed to help enforce traffic regulations. You could receive heavy fines if you do not obey the speed limit or the Highway Code. Local authorities may also confiscate your driver’s licence.

Fines must generally be paid within 3 days. They may be increased in case of delay of payment.

A reflective vest and warning triangle are mandatory in all vehicles.

From November 1 to March 31, winter tires or chains are compulsory in some cities and regions in mountainous areas.

Priority to the right

The “priority to the right” system is in effect in France. Drivers must give way to vehicles approaching from the right at intersections, even on secondary roads. This is often a surprise to foreign drivers and results in accidents.

In general, traffic in a roundabout has priority over vehicles trying to enter it. Priority switches to vehicles from the left.

Low-emission zones

Some cities and territories have put in place low emission zones to reduce air pollution.

Access to these zones is restricted to vehicles that meet certain environmental standards. You may need to get a permit to drive in these areas.

• More information about road travel in France - European Commission
• Obligations to equip vehicles in winter - French administration services (in French)
• Air quality certificates: Crit'Air - Ministry of Ecological Transition (in French)

The currency of France is the euro (EUR).

If you are carrying €10,000 or more, or the equivalent in other currencies, you must make a declaration to customs when you enter or leave the European Union. It includes sums in:

• banknotes and coins
• bearer negotiable instruments such as cheques, travellers’ cheques, promissory notes and money orders
• bonds, shares
• gold coins with a gold content of at least 90 %
• gold bars, nuggets or clumps with a gold content of at least 99.5 %
• any other convertible asset

This does not apply if you are travelling within the European Union or in transit to a non-EU country.

EU cash controls - European Commission

There is a risk of avalanches in mountainous areas, which can cause fatal accidents. If you intend to ski or climb, find out about the weather and safety conditions and follow the advice given.

• Familiarise yourself with the avalanche risk levels - French administration services

There is a risk of seasonal flooding, particularly in areas along major rivers and streams. Flooding can hamper overland travel and the provision of essential services.

The French government has a flood forecasting service called Vigicrues.

• Exercise caution
• Stay informed of the latest regional weather forecasts

Flooding risk - Vigicrues

Forest and maquis fires

Forest and maquis fires often occur in summer, particularly on the Mediterranean coast and in Corsica.

The air quality in areas near active fires may deteriorate due to heavy smoke.

There is a ban on smoking in woods and forests during high forest fire risk periods as defined by the prefecture. This ban applies equally to areas situated within 200m of wooded areas.

In case of a major fire:

• stay away from affected areas, particularly if you suffer from respiratory ailments
• follow the advice of local authorities
• monitor local media for up-to-date information on the situation

  Forest weather – Météo France (in French)

Local services

Dial 112 for emergency assistance.

Dial 17 to connect to the police.

French Guiana, Guadeloupe, Martinique, Mayotte, Monaco, La Réunion, Saint-Barthélemy, Saint-Martin, Saint-Pierre-et-Miquelon

South Region.

Rhône-Alpes Region

American Samoa, Cook Islands, Fiji, French Polynesia, Kiribati, Niue, Samoa, Tokelau, Tonga, Tuvalu, Wallis and Futuna

Consular assistance - France

Please call the consulates before visiting them.

For emergency consular assistance, call the Embassy of Canada to France, in Paris, and follow the instructions

Consular assistance - Wallis and Futuna

For emergency consular assistance, call the High Commission of Canada to New Zealand, in Wellington, and follow the instructions.

At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.

The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.

The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.

If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.

Learn more about consular services .

Risk Levels

  take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

  Exercise a high degree of caution

There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.

  Avoid non-essential travel

Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

  Avoid all travel

You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.

Urban Abroad

Urban Planning and Travel Blog

Is Paris safe?

Travel Blog Last Updated · Jan 10th, 2024 [post_author_posts_link] · [post_comments before=""] -->

Is Paris safe for new and unsophisticated travelers?

It’s the home of the Mona Lisa, Sacre Coeur, Louis Vuitton… oh, and that big tower everyone loves. Paris is both the capital city and the largest city in France.

Full of recent and medieval history, it has an eclectic array of museums and galleries. It’s also one of the best places in France to study fashion and design.

The big question, however, is whether Paris is as safe as visitors make it out to be. Or, is Paris just another European city with petty crime and scams on the rise?

Table of Contents

In this travel guide, we will cover travel safety in Paris so you can ensure your trip to this European capital is a safe one and so you can avoid some of the common pitfalls that happen to some of the more unfortunate travelers who arrive here.

Paris is a smart city that employs innovative techniques to pave the way in residential, business, and commercial energy-saving techniques.

But is it safer than most other European cities? This is one of the most asked questions for new travelers who want to visit the French Capital.

How safe is Paris?

Paris is an interesting place when it comes to the question of safety.

Just like any other European city with petty crime problems, organized crime, and the highest chances of crime happening to visitors is being pickpocketed.

However, it’s still seen by some visitors as a more dangerous place than the likes of Barcelona , Rome or even London in many cases.

This is due to the fact that there is a lot of underground crime such as drugs and trafficking. Tourists have been known to have been accosted by pickpockets.

There are thousands of migrant workers living on the streets but in our opinion, Paris is a very safe city because of just how many tourists visit here.

It’s just like Rome and London , tourists make up a lot of the GDP, so they aren’t typically targeted but in recent years it has been said that the huge influx or immigrants and migrantes is causing a huge social and public safety concern.

If we had to criticize Paris’s tourism, we would say the rat infestation is the biggest problem. Specialists say that over 6 million rats happen to live underneath Paris.

Paris crime rate

• The U.S. Department of State Travel Advisory assesses Paris as being a MEDIUM-threat location and has assessed Bordeaux , Lyon, Marseille, Rennes, and Strasbourg as being LOW-threat locations for crime.
• Since the start of the first national lockdown, burglaries of businesses are up 60 percent and muggings have increased by 2.4 percent.
• Tourists are commonly victims of purse snatching or pickpocketing in high traffic and tourist areas, but violent crimes against tourists are infrequent.
• There are three times as many crimes happening in the USA as in France.

Is Paris safe for tourists?

Yes, Paris is safe for tourists and millions of people visit each year without any issues. You will find that the well-known tourist attractions are some of the safest places in Paris to be because they provide the most security and visibility.

French people and Parisians, in general, tend to be more introverted than Americans or rural English people, and tend to mind their own business.

Travelers who are undecided between Amsterdam or Paris for example, may like the fact that the Dutch are more extroverted and straightforward in their dealings and unlikely to beat around the bush when it comes to interacting with visitors.

Beyond that, Paris is full of activities that are wonderful to do on your own: museums, long walks, photography, patisseries, and window shopping. How does a visit to Opera Garnier sound? It is the most beautiful in the world after all.

Is Paris safe at night?

Yes, you can walk around Paris at night but there are some precautions to follow, just as you would in any other capital city in the world. These include avoiding dark strangers at night and not walking down isolated streets or alleyways.

Avoid some areas of the city such as Pigalle also called ‘the red light district’, the area between the Eiffel Tower and Trocadero, Les Halles and Centre Pompidou, and some metro stations like Gare du Nord and Gare de l’Est.

There is also the eastern and northern area of Montmartre, Bois de Boulogne and the northern side of Villette that is better to avoid.

Is Paris safe to travel alone?

Yes, you can travel solo in Paris and feel safe at all times. Use your common sense and keep an eye on your belongings as petty thieves and bag snatchers target tourists in the most crowded and popular places and on public transport.

No matter where you go in the city, we suggest that you carry a money stash like this one with you to conceal your belongings while you’re out exploring the city.

If you can, aim to avoid the northern parts of the city as well as the stations and Les Halles if you’re moving around alone after dark. If you stick to the main touristic areas, even at night, there’s no reason to be concerned about safety.

Is Paris safe for solo female travelers?

Yes, Paris is also safe for solo female travelers. Book accommodation in the most central areas of the city like Marais, Saint Germain des Prés and Opéra or in what it’s defined as the Golden Triangle area.

Avoid the stations and districts which are far from the city center and that will involve getting on public transport in less frequented areas.

It’s best to not walk around in Pigalle, Champs Elysees, the area of Chatelet and Centre Pampidou and of course, the stations (called ‘gare’ in French) late at night.

If you like the idea of meeting other like-minded travelers Les Piaules is said to be one of the best hostels in Paris for solo female travelers.

Where to stay in Paris

There are some amazing hotels and incredible places to stay in Paris:

• Le Marais : Beautifully kept squares, lush parks with hidden fountains, traditional bistros, and dinky fashion boutiques – if you’re looking for this kind of Parisian romance, the Marais is for you.”
• Saint-Germain-des-Prés : For the five-star Parisian experience, it has to be Saint-Germain-des-Prés. From existentialism to jazz, this is where Paris’s key 20th-century cultural movements thrived, where Godard and Giacometti shared cafés and bookshops with Sartre and de Beauvoir. That golden age lives on in the many independent stores and boutiques, and for authentic café culture, Saint-Germain takes some beating.
• Rue Oberkampf : If you’re looking for some of Paris’s best nightlife, head to the area between Bastille and République, where dozens of bars line the Rue Oberkampf. Here, you’ll encounter everything from fancy cocktail joints to basement dives to sleek wine bars.”

Areas to avoid in Paris

As we mentioned earlier, the heart of Paris is safe for tourists during the day, but to reduce risk, there are certain places you shouldn’t frequent during the night:

• The 19 ° arrondissement for its high crime rate and drug trafficking issues.
• The 18 ° arrondissement near Pigalle, the ‘red light district’ of Paris, for prostitution and low-level bars.
• Gare du Nord station the north side is known for violent crimes.

As a tourist, it’s also better to avoid Paris’s outskirts, especially the in and around the neighborhoods based in the north side of the city.

If you are fascinated by the Pigalle area or staying closeby, why not take part in this special Red Light District Tour so you can dig deeper with a local guide?

Paris: Travel safety tips

Although we can agree that Paris is safe, be sure to take some precautions before and during your stay to ensure that you stay safe no matter what.

Here are some tips to take with you:

• Walking around flashing expensive items and gadgets will attract attention from unwanted petty criminals.
• Don’t show wads of cash when paying for stuff – control how much cash you carry around and use a hotel safe. Also wearing a money belt that is not correctly concealed will attract the attention of pickpockets here.
• Keep your bag close to you at cafes/restaurants, never place your bag in a retrievable position open for passers-by to grab.
• Remember to carry an umbrella and check out this list of things to do on a rainy day in Paris if you’ll be visit during the winter months.
• No matter where you find yourself in the city, always be aware of your surroundings when using the Metro or other public transport.
• If you’re traveling to Paris on a budget be sure to check out FIAP Jean-Monnet is one of the most popular place to stay when you want to be close to the Latin Quarter, Le Louvre and the Eiffel Tower.
• Know the typical distraction techniques – pickpockets often work in groups and sometimes pretend to be collecting money for a charity.
• Why not get this book and learn a few French phrases – lots of people speak English but it pays to have at least a few words in French to get by.
• Avoid homeless communities around large train stations – plus groups of people that sit around drinking (believe it or not, it’s not an unusual sight)
• Foie gras, Escargot, Baguettes, and Macarons are some of the best things to eat in Paris so don’t miss the opportunity whilst here.
• Be careful with drink or drug-taking if you’re a fan of the Paris nightlife.

Also, before you arrive in Paris, read some of our best sustainable travel tips to help ensure that your trip has a more positive effect on the environment.

Best time to visit Paris

The best time to visit Paris is between May and September, when the climate is quite warm and you have the ability to sit outside and enjoy the cafés.

Winter on the other hand is a freezing nightmare: but in the summer, the temperatures range from 20 to 30 degrees Fahrenheit.

If you are visiting Paris outside of the summer month be sure to carry a compact umbrella like this one to avoid getting caught in the rain.

Paris is expensive all year round, but the busy times are the height of Summer and December (Christmas). If we had to pick a month, we’d say June.

This is because of the follwing reasons:

• The eco-friendly We Love Green festival, a festival that puts the emphasis on music and eco-responsibility.
• Fête de la Musique, which has a history that stretches back to 1982.
• The Django Reinhardt Jazz Festival, located on a small island on the Seine.

It worth getting a river shuttle pass to be able to explore Paris at your own pace within a 24 hours or 48 hour period on the sightseeing cruise.

Is Paris safe? Final words

Turns out, Paris is quite a safe place if you take the necessary measures.

Planning ahead will make your trip stress-free, so make sure you have the right equipment and steadfast conviction if something goes wrong.

Paris has bar none, the best galleries in the world, so if you’re visiting purely for getting cultural, no need to fear. Book your trip to Paris today!

Depending on how many days in Paris you have, you may want to take extra precautions especially when it comes to the area you choose to stay in.

Dear responsible traveler : This post may contain affiliate links, which means, if you click through and make a purchase, book a tour or a hotel, we may earn a small commission. This is at no additional cost to you . Your support means a lot and helps us to maintain the quality of this site.

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Home » Europe » France » Paris

Is Paris Safe for Travel? (Insider Tips)

Paris is the City of Love; it’s the home of the Louvre, the Eiffel Tower, and the freaky catacombs, too. Even the graveyards are famous in Paris: Père Lachaise Cemetery for one.

It’s easy to think of beloved cultural icons like Paris as these shiny little slices of paradise where bad things never happen. For better or worse, Paris is still a major capital city and with that comes city problems. There are petty theft and reports of violent crime. But tourists often struggle to gauge how likely they are to be affected by these things.

In fact, you may be wondering, “ is Paris safe to visit right now? ”

That is why we have created this epic guide to staying safe in Paris. We are going to help you travel smartly and avoid the dregs of Paris.

Whether you’re travelling solo, with friends or with your family, you’ll find some useful information in our tips and tricks for your visit in one of the most romantic cities.

From driving around the city to the famous Parisian food, or travelling as a solo female backpacker, we’ve listed up a couple of do’s and don’ts to make your trip to Paris enjoyable, and most importantly, as safe as possible.

Do You Want to Travel FOREVER??

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How Safe is Paris? (Our take)

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Paris pretty much speaks for itself as a destination, right? It’s France’s capital city and a world-famous city, after all! And that’s for a good reason: world-renowned museums, good food, beautiful architecture. Millions of tourists are drawn into the city every year, making Paris one of the most popular vacation destinations worldwide. Most backpacking trips to Paris end trouble-free.

But it’s not all quite as romantic as you’d think.

There’s a lot of pickpocketing going on, not to mention criminal gangs and some big protests. For all its grandeur, Paris is still a big city and suffers from big-city problems.

Generally speaking, France is a safe country to visit and Paris is not an exception to this. Of course, you need to have a general sense of awareness about your surroundings, but you won’t likely be in immediate danger. The biggest risk while travelling Paris is petty theft.

As a well-developed European city, there might be thefts here and there, but the living standard is still very high. It does pay to keep an eye on the news though, and if you don’t want to get caught up in a large protest, keep off the streets when the French get a bee in their bonnet.

There is no such thing as a perfect safety guide, and this article is no different. The question of “Is Paris Safe?” will ALWAYS have a different answer depending on the parties involved. But this article is written for savvy travellers from the perspective of savvy travellers.

The information present in this safety guide was accurate at the time of writing, however, the world is a changeable place, now more than ever. Between the pandemic, ever-worsening cultural division, and a click-hungry media, it can be hard to maintain what is truth and what is sensationalism.

Here, you will find safety knowledge and advice for travelling Paris. It won’t be down to the wire cutting edge info on the most current events, but it is layered in the expertise of veteran travellers. If you use our guide, do your own research, and practise common sense, you will have a safe trip to Paris.

If you see any outdated information in this guide, we would really appreciate it if you could reach out in the comments below. We strive to provide the most relevant travel information on the web and always appreciate input from our readers (nicely, please!). Otherwise, thanks for your ear and stay safe!

It’s a wild world out there. But it’s pretty damn special too. 🙂

Most backpackers to France pass through Paris at some point.

40 million tourists visited the city in 2018, which makes Paris the most popular destination for vacation in Europe.

While there have been terrorist attacks over the years in Paris – and while they garner a lot of media attention – the likelihood of one happening while you visit Paris is low. There have been new measures put in place to mitigate the consequences of these attacks as well.

As in many big cities, there are issues for women as well – for example, groping on the metro can be a problem. My personal way of dealing with assholes is to call them out and publicly shame them. But that doesn’t work for everyone. The other thing is, assholes aren’t unique to Paris, so they aren’t a reason to miss out on seeing one of the world’s greatest cities.

The yellow vest movement, an anti-government demonstration, used to be a real safety problem in Paris, but the number of protests has pretty much died down.

These protests are noteworthy because they often take place around popular tourist sites – e.g. the Arc du Triumph – and they sometimes turn violent, too. Trying to find out when protests are scheduled (usually at the weekend) is a good idea. Also, consider avoiding the Champs Élysées during these days.

We’re saying Paris is very safe to visit right now but expectations will still need to be tempered .

Paris is very safe in most areas. The only thing you might have to worry about is pickpocketing thieves around the tourist spots. As long as you keep your eyes open, you’ll be safe in Paris no matter where you stay. However, we’ve listed the three best districts below.

Le Marais – 3rd and 4th Arrondissement

Le Marais is a historic district located on Paris’ right bank. An excellent destination for art lovers, Le Marais is home to some of the finest art galleries and most interesting museums on the planet. Since the overall vibe is more relaxed, you’ll almost be safe from the Paris pickpocketing threat.

Eiffel Tower – 7th Arrondissement

Of course, we’ll have to feature the 7th Arrondissement with the famous attraction – the Eiffel Tower. This district is ideal for sightseeing as everything is practically in walking distance. However, this means that you’ll have to be more aware of pickpocketing and petty theft. Just keep your eyes open and stay aware of your surroundings and you’ll be perfectly fine.

Saint-Germain-des-Pres – 6th Arrondissement

This can be considered as one of the safest districts in Paris. It’s suited for families and culture lovers thanks to its peaceful vibe and plenty of activities. Brimming with history, culture, art and cuisine, this centrally located neighbourhood is home to upscale art galleries, iconic museums, world-class restaurants and brand name designer boutiques.

Places to Avoid in Paris

There are no official no-go areas in Paris. Some people consider a few arrondissements a little sketchy. These areas should mainly be avoided at night but are generally fine during the day. As a female traveller, you should only walk through these districts with company or hop on an Uber instead. Be careful in the following places:

• The 10th Arrondissement: Gare du Nord and Gare de l’Est 
• Northern 18th and 19th Arrondissement: nearby Marx Dormoy, Porte de la Chapelle, La Chapelle, Porte de Clignancourt, Porte de la Villette.

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So with all the historic sights and things to do in Paris come a few safety issues. Though a lot of the bad stuff that  does  happen in Paris won’t be affecting tourists, it still pays to travel smartly.

And so we thought we’d share with you some of our top safety tips for travelling to Paris so you can still have an awesome time in this cool city:

• Watch out for distraction techniques  – asking you to sign up to petitions, people working in groups, anything that seems off  probably  is.
• And read up about scams  – like the ‘gold ring’ trick for example. There are loads out there, so  do some research.
• Don’t keep all your things in one place  – if you get something stolen with all your stuff in it, you’ll be screwed. Be smart! Consider keeping an emergency stash in a money belt (you can leave it in the hotel room if you like).
• Keep your belongings close to you  – don’t let your bag dangle around, or hang it on the back of your chair, anything like that. It will disappear from under your nose.
• Be wary of your luggage  – around transit hubs and places like your hotel lobby.
• Use the hotel safe for your belongings  – you never know when things might go missing.
• Be smart with drugs – make sure you know who you’re buying from, if you must partake.
• Pickpockets are a thing  – all over the metro and at big tourist sights like the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, Pompidou Centre, Champs Élysées.
• So try not to look wealthy  – it may be a chic city (or seen as one) but try to blend in. Looking like a tourist makes you a target.
• Watch out when you’re getting money out of ATMs  – scammers and potential thieves could be lurking behind you.
• Learn yourself some French  – hey, French people like talking French. This will really help you.
• Steer clear of any political protests – Actually, you could go to them if you’re like me and are interested in the things that a city find important. It’s exciting to get caught up in a moment of history. But do be alert, and if you don’t want to get caught up in a big crowd, it’s best to avoid these protests.

Solo travel is definitely something we’re all about. Getting to challenge yourself, learning new languages , growing as a person, being self-reliant – doing all of these whilst travelling the world is an awesome experience.

Paris is safe to travel alone (though all the stuff we mentioned already applies), we’re sharing a few tips so you can make your solo trip even more secure:

• If you want to be around people, then find yourself somewhere social to stay. There are quite a few cool hostels in Paris . Chatting with travellers from all over the world is a great way to get rid of those solo travel blues.
• Ask the staff at your accommodation for insider info, like food recommendations, where it’s safe to walk around and explore, what things you should see. Local tips are always the best!
• Learn a little bit of French. The effort of speaking the local language will go a long way.
• Stay in areas you want to explore so you don’t have to travel around too much . Most hostels tend to be around the city centre where you can also find lots of great Paris places to visit .
• You may be in a well-developed city, but you should still let people know where you are and what you’re doing. Keep in touch with friends and family back home and tell them what you’re up to.
• Use Google Maps to navigate the city, particularly its massive public transport network. If you don’t want to bother with the metro, Paris is a walkable city as well.

A lot of women travel to Paris by themselves and have a great time. In fact, many women choose to make it their first-time solo travel destination.

Unfortunately, being a woman in any country can come with complications. Knowing how to protect yourself and stay safe in a new country is definitely a necessity for all solo-female travellers (or travellers in general).

We’ve listed up a couple of tips that can make your trip a bit safer and therefore much more enjoyable:

• Be careful on nights out. Looking up your route back home is a good idea, as well as watching the number of drinks you’re having (with that also comes the rule of never taking your eyes off your drink).
• Although you don’t need to cover up in Paris, Parisian women don’t often wear revealing outfits. Doing so will  definitely  bring more attention to yourself, especially after dark. Just dress casual and you’ll be fine.
• If someone’s flirting with you or making advances, and you’re not interested tell them to fuck off. No point beating around the bush, be direct and move away from them quickly.
• Don’t be overly polite with strangers. It’s ok to chat to people, obviously, but they don’t need to know everything about you.
• In general, you should be aware of your surroundings and be vigilant. A no-brainer really.
• Choosing the right area of Paris to stay in  is important. Make sure your accomodation is safe and read the reviews.

We’ve covered the most important safety aspects already, but there is loads more to know about how to stay safe in Paris. Read on for even more detailed safety information.

Is Paris safe to travel for families?

Paris is very safe for families and fun as well! It’s full of museums and art galleries. You’ll find loads of parks too – great for cooling off in summer.

Do just a little bit of research and you’ll find amazing things to do with children in Paris.

Whilst Paris is safe to travel for families, it isn’t always the cheapest , especially with kids. But you can get a Famille Nombreuse   – this is a discount ticket for families of five (that’s 3 children) and covers a ton of different attractions.

And depending on the age of your kids, discounts apply at some places in addition.

Wonder how to spend your weekend in Paris? Head over to our  insider’s Weekend in Paris guide!

Is it safe to drive in Paris?

Driving in Paris is stressful. Drivers can be pretty unpredictable, there’s loads of traffic congestion, you’ll have to deal with huge multi-lane roundabouts (e.g. Place Charles de Gaulle), and much more.

Here are some reasons not to drive in Paris:

• Local drivers can be pretty aggressive
• If you do drive in Paris, you can’t use your phone. Not even an earpiece.
• You can also get some pretty heavy fines if you’re caught speeding.
• Renting a car can be very expensive. And you need good luck finding a parking spot.

So while you totally can drive in Paris, it’s probably easier to stick to local transport.

Cycling in Paris

Riding a bike, in general, is one of the safest ways of transport since you’ve got full control of your speed and where you’re going. Just make sure you wear your helmet!

Paris has a massive and constantly expanding bike path network since 1990. There are over 800km of bike lanes, all distributed through the city. Since the normal streets can be quite busy, and the metro is usually quite packed, choosing your bicycle to get around is, in most cases, the fastest option.

Although you’ve got the bike lanes to yourself, you need to be aware of traffic, especially in the inner city where the bike lane is only marked by white lines on the ground. If you ride your bike further from the centre, the bike path will be separated by little speed bumps that stop anyone from crossing your lane. 

Is Uber safe in Paris?

Uber in Paris is safe and super convenient! Here’s why:

• It’s an easy, cost-effective way to get around and connects you all over the place.
• No worries about hailing a cab or dealing with pushy drivers.
• As an added bonus, the language barrier also won’t be an issue.
• You can track your journeys and even share your location.

Are taxis safe in Paris?

The taxis are safe in Paris but just make sure you don’t get in an unlicensed taxi. These are illegal and sometimes unsafe. You’re more likely to encounter these kinds of taxis at transport hubs, airports and popular places like Gare du Nord.

Spotting an illegal Taxi is pretty easy since licensed taxis have Taxi Parisienne  written on the top. If the light’s on, it’s vacant. On the front right of the car, there will also be a plate showing the taxi license number. Check for these and you’re good to go. Just make sure that the taxi has a working meter that you can actually see.

Is public transportation in Paris safe?

The public transport in Paris is safe but you should probably be a little wary when it comes to the metro line. Some are easy to use and are very secure, while others are crowded, chaotic, and sometimes crawling with thieves. Note these:

• Line 9 that passes through the Trocaderoand Champs Élysées is well known for pickpockets. It’s actually not uncommon to find someone with their hand in your bag.
• Heavily touristed Line 1is the same.
• RER Line B has also been known for assaults. Take care not to be in an empty carriage, or travel late at night.

If you plan on using these or any line for that matter, be sure to maintain awareness of yourself and your belongings.

• Number one rule: Don’t fall asleep on the train. Thieves actively look for sleeping passengers. Your wallet, phone, or whatever, will be gone before you know it.
• You also see strange characters on the Paris metro. They’ll jump on at one station, walk through the carriage, ask for money, play the accordion, anything to get a euro or two. These folks are usually harmless and it’s best just to ignore them.
• Make sure that you listen out for the buzzer indicating the doors are going to shut. And stand away from the doors. It’s a tactic of thieves to grab stuff and jump off the train just as the doors close.
• Try to avoid rush hour.

All that being said, public transport in Paris is still quite useful. It’s pretty efficient and fairly affordable. It may be intimidating to first time visitor, but with a little practice, you’ll catch on quick.

Is the food in Paris safe?

It’s no secret that France is famous for food and Paris, being the capital, is no different. This is literally the home country of the Michelin star system. You’ll find so many gourmets eats in Paris, like foie gras , s teak tartare, escargot and – of course – a lot of wine.

But the thing is, not all food in Paris is guaranteed to be good – some places are really shitty and you can still get sick.   Granted, the chances of you getting ill are very low, but it still pays to be cognizant.

So here are our top foodie tips for Paris:

• High prices do not equal high deliciousness . You shouldn’t have to shell out a lot for good food in Paris.
• Be careful with scallops , which is a favourite of ‘gourmet’ dishes. If you’re going to order something like that on a Monday or a Sunday , you should know that the fish markets are closed on these days. It won’t be fresh and it will most likely be old (probably purchased on a Saturday).
• Street food exists in Paris. Choose the stalls with the highest turnovers and the most costumers.
• And for the most basic tip ever,  wash your hands before you eat , especially after a long day of exploring the city.
• Travelling with an allergy ? Research ahead of time how to explain your allergy. Keep in mind that store owners and restaurant staff might not know all the foods that contain allergens, so it’s helpful to know the names of some of these too. If you’re gluten-free, pick up a handy Gluten-Free Translation Card with descriptions of Celiac disease, cross-contamination risk, and local Paris ingredients in French.

Can you drink the water in Paris?

Yep, it’s perfectly safe to drink the water in Paris. However, some people do find that it doesn’t quite agree with them. The tap water has been filtered and cleared of all sorts of bacteria. If you are staying in an Airbnb or a homestay in Paris , ask the host, as some areas are better than others.

Investing in a great water bottle is definitely worth it. Most accommodations have water fountains where you can refill for free. Having a bottle with you while exploring the city will also stop you from spending a fortune on 250ml water. When you invest in a grayl georpess, you can rest easy knowing that you’re doing your part to be a responsible traveller and not add to the plastic problem.

Is Paris safe to live?

Paris is safe to live in and (no surprise) quite desirable. The cheese, wine, baguettes, croissants – who could blame people for moving here for these pleasures!

Whilst some areas have high levels of crime, most violent crime is pretty rare in Paris. Honestly, you’ll have to go to some sketchy areas to actually feel like your safety is at risk. These are outside the city centre.

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Is it Safe to Rent an Airbnb in Paris?

Renting an Airbnb in Paris is perfectly safe, as long as you read the reviews. Staying at an Airbnb during your trip will also open up new possibilities and options to experience the city. The local hosts are known to take great care of their guests and give the absolute best recommendations of what to do and what to see.

Not only can you save a little money, but you can also feel good about it going directly into a local host’s pocket. The hosts often have heaps of valuable insight about padding out your Paris itinerary, too!

Is Paris LGBTQ+ friendly?

On the whole, Paris is a very welcoming city to our rainbow communities! There is no need to stick to one part of the city in order to feel accepted, as across the city there is broad acceptance of LGBTQ rights. That being said, there are also gay bars and clubs that are an extra celebration of what it means to travel gay!

Unfortunately, like anywhere in the world, there are some sections of the community who can’t find it in them to tolerate someone different from themselves. Gay travellers should still be wary and trust their instincts in parts of Paris. You can expect a supportive gendarmerie if something does happen though.

Above all, you can expect to have a great, gay time when you travel to Paris. It is unlikely to be unsafe and there is a lot of stuff to see and do!

Planning a safe trip to a popular city can be a bit overwhelming. To help you out, we’ve listed and answered the most commonly asked question on Paris’s safety.

What should you avoid in Paris?

Avoid these things to have an even safer trip: – Don’t walk around looking flashy and rich  – Avoid the 18th, 19th, and 20th Arrondissement  – Don’t cover your face, it’s illegal – Don’t let your belongings out of sight 

Which areas are the most dangerous ones in Paris?

There aren’t any areas that are really dangerous but the 18th, 19th and 10th Arrondissement are known to be sketchy at night. Avoid them to add another level of safety to your stay.

Is it safe to walk around at night in Paris?

While we don’t recommend walking around at night anywhere in the world, you can walk in Paris after the dark and still be safe. However, you’d be better off with a group of friends rather than by yourself.

Is Paris safe to visit right now?

As of 2021, Paris is very safe to visit and has probably never been safer. Since it’s a big city, you’ll have to deal with big-city crimes like petty theft and pickpocketing, but apart from that, there’s hardly anything to worry about.

On an everyday level,  Paris is safe – safe to visit, safe to live in, and safe for your kids. There’s nothing really unsafe about the French capital. It may be sketchy at times, but what major city isn’t?

It’s all about knowing what areas you should and shouldn’t be in. The areas with the highest crime rates definitely won’t be being visited by you.

And, yes – there are pickpockets and scammers of all sorts. But not falling for their tricks is the best way to go about keeping your money safe in Paris. Not being oblivious to your surroundings and keeping everything close to you – especially in crowds, tourist areas and on public transport – is the thing to do if you want to keep all of your money for yourself.

Disclaimer: Safety conditions change all over the world on a daily basis. We do our best to advise but this info may already be out of date. Do your own research. Enjoy your travels!

Mathilde Magnier

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I’m replying to Aiden’s comment “…Paris does have a bit of a crime problem”.

Really? It sounds to me that not only do they have a crime problem they have a police problem. Especially noted after reading Cindy’s story.

It’s one thing for a large city to have crime; quite another for the city’s police to be unable or unwilling to protect the people they serve.

I came across your site while searching for a place in Paris to stay this summer (’23).

Under “Places to avoid in Paris”, above, the first area you list is the 10th Arrondissement: Gare du Nord.

But then, following your “Cool hostels in Paris” link, the #1 hostel is located in the 10th Arrondissement along with the bar Belushi’s.

Makes no sense.

I bet you’re load of fun at parties Bill.

Enjoy Paris.

I would like to add a caution for those traveling to France. We have been here many times and traveled throughout the world. We made one poor decision and payed the price. We entered a very crowded metro car and were standing near the doors. A group of men entered right after us and “pinned” my husband and I against the center post. My husband said he felt many hands entering his pockets. I was wearing a backpack and my husband saw them open it and steal my purse. Passport, credit cards and other ID was gone in an instant. We chased the fellow but after some altercation it was clear he had passed my purse to a friend! I post this to reinforce the comments made here. You are never a “seasoned” traveler!! You are always a target. Be careful and follow this advice. Our event took place at Chatellet! We live Paris and will return, just with added locks and personal storage devices. ?

I am sorry to hear that. You are right that Paris does have a bit of a crime problem. My French girlfriend had her phone stolen from her hand whilst she was living in the city.

It can, and does happen, to anybody.

I wish i read your blog before our trip to Paris we were only one hour in the metro with our suitcase and a gang of man total of 3 , tried to pull the suitcase and another hold my husband and third one reach for his front pocket. My husband tried to defend himself and i was screaming in the plataform of the metro 5 rush hour 9 am. Nobody help us , nobody seem to care. My husband held one of the guys against the wall , the guy was pushing, shoving. Fell off and ran. I live in the nyc aerea and i take the train every day. Trust me people will try to help , only one italian man with my spanish help us to go to the police. Not even the ticket operator wanted to help us. While in the police quaters in Garu Du Nord filing a police report , a couple from Denmark same situation and later a group from Philipines got everything stolen. Seems to be common there , luckily i was holding passports and other credit cards, but j have to call and cancel everything. The area around Garu du station is horrible and trust me i see a lot things in other countries. After that we meet nice people and some other scammers like the ring tried to pull it off. The vacation was like looking over my shoulder at all times. Some areas were nice, some full of graffiti and chaos. Despite i will come back to France . There is more good than bad but i wish more order and police around and inside metro . Thanks for your blog.

It’s terrible to hear this happened, Maria. As most long term travellers agree, it can happen anywhere. Im most glad to hear you would be willing to return tho. Hopefully Paris can sort things out.

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7 Safest areas to stay in Paris for tourists (and Where to avoid)

Wondering Where is safest to stay in Paris? Which are the safest arrondissements? Which area to avoid staying in Paris? In this post, I will help you to find the Safest areas and neighborhoods in Paris for tourists , and also areas to avoid staying in Paris.

Paris is the capital and largest city of France, located in the northern-central part of the country. It is renowned for its rich history, culture, art, fashion, and gastronomy

Paris is famous for its iconic landmarks, including the Eiffel Tower , a symbol of the city and one of the most visited monuments in the world. Other notable landmarks include the Notre-Dame Cathedral, the Louvre Museum, the Arc de Triomphe, and the Sacré-Cœur Basilica.

Paris is a global fashion capital , known for its haute couture and high-end fashion houses. It hosts prestigious fashion events, such as Paris Fashion Week, attracting designers, models, and fashion enthusiasts from around the world.

The River Seine flows through the city, dividing it into the Left Bank and Right Bank. The river adds to the charm of Paris and is lined with scenic bridges and quays that offer picturesque views.

Is Paris Safe to Visit?

Paris is overall a safe city for tourists , but like any major urban area, it is not entirely without crime or safety concerns. Pickpocketing and petty theft have been known to occur in crowded tourist areas, so it’s recommended to remain vigilant and take precautions to avoid these risks.

Additionally, demonstrations and protests occasionally take place in Paris, which can lead to localized disruptions. It’s advisable to avoid these areas during such events and stay informed about any potential demonstrations.

To ensure a safe and enjoyable trip to Paris, consider the following tips:

• Stay in well-known and reputable neighborhoods or accommodations.
• Avoid poorly lit and isolated areas, especially at night.
• Keep your valuables secure and avoid displaying expensive items in public.
• Be cautious in crowded places, public transportation, and tourist attractions.
• Familiarize yourself with emergency contact numbers and the location of your country’s embassy or consulate.

By being prepared and exercising common sense, you can enhance your safety and have a memorable experience in Paris or any other city you visit.

What is the safest area to stay in Paris?

The safest areas to stay in Paris for tourists are Le Marais , Latin Quarter, St Germain, Gare de Lyon, Montmartre, Canal Saint-Martin, and Champs Elysée. It’s always essential to remain vigilant, keep your belongings secure, and be cautious of pickpockets in crowded tourist areas.

Which neighborhood not to stay in Paris?

There are few areas in Paris that should be avoided or visited with caution, especially at night. They include Gare du Nord (10th arr.), Châtelet les Halles (1st arr.), Northern area of 19th arrondissement, Porte de Montreuil  (20th arr.), Rue St. Denis, and Bois de Boulogne (16th arr.).  

Châtelet-Les Halles is a transportation hub and a popular spot for tourists, but it can also attract pickpockets and scammers due to its high foot traffic. Gare du Nord is a busy train station with a reputation for pickpocketing and minor crimes, especially in crowded areas.

The Eiffel Tower attracts large crowds of tourists. Unfortunately, this also makes it a prime location for petty crimes such as pickpocketing and scams targeting tourists . It’s essential to be aware of your surroundings, and take safety precautions, like you would in any major city.

Map of safest areas and neighborhoods in Paris:

The safest areas & neighborhoods to stay in Paris for tourists:

1. le marais (4th arrondissement).

Le Marais is one of the best and safest areas to stay in Paris for first-timers due to its central location, safety, great food, nightlife, and well-connected public transportation. It is a historic district located in the 3rd and 4th arrondissements of Paris. 

While Le Marais is generally considered a safe neighborhood, like any urban area, it is essential to remain vigilant and take precautions to avoid becoming a victim of petty theft or pickpocketing , especially in crowded places.

Known as one of the most fashionable and trendy neighborhoods in the city, Le Marais is famous for its rich history, beautiful architecture, lively atmosphere, and diverse cultural scene.

The district is characterized by its narrow medieval streets, well-preserved historic buildings , and charming squares. Many of the buildings date back to the 16th and 17th centuries, with distinct Parisian architectural styles.

Le Marais is home to several museums and cultural institutions. Notably, the Picasso National Museum (Musée National Picasso) houses an extensive collection of artworks by the renowned artist Pablo Picasso.

Le Marais has a significant Jewish history, and you’ll find many Jewish bakeries, shops, and synagogues in this area. The Jewish quarter is a vibrant and culturally rich part of the neighborhood.

Le Marais is known for its unique boutiques, vintage shops, and trendy fashion store s. Rue des Francs-Bourgeois is a popular shopping street with a wide variety of shops to explore.

The area is filled with charming cafés, bistros, bars, and restaurants offering a diverse range of cuisines, making it a great place to enjoy a meal or a coffee while people-watching.

It is home to the Place des Vosges historic square , one of the oldest in Paris and is surrounded by elegant red-brick buildings. It’s a lovely spot to relax and enjoy the surroundings.

Le Marais has a vibrant LGBTQ+ community and is known for its gay-friendly bars, clubs, and events, especially along Rue des Archives, rue Sainte Croix de la Bretonnerie, and rue Rambuteau.

The neighborhood has a strong artistic and creative community, with numerous art galleries and design studios to explore. It offers easy access to the Centre Pompidou in Beaubourg district.

Le Marais is easily explored on foot. Additionally it has excellent connections to public transportation. Les Halles is within walking distance, offering easy access to the airport and Versailles.

Overall, Le Marais offers a mix of historical charm, artistic flair, and contemporary urban living, making it a must-visit destination for both tourists and locals alike. It’s a great place to wander around, soak in the atmosphere, and experience the diverse cultural tapestry of Paris.

Best places to stay in Paris in Le Marais:

• luxury ($$$): Hotel Dupond-Smith , 5-star hotel, located in the Marais in central Paris, easy walk from the Louvre Museum, Notre Dame Cathedral, and Pompidou Centre.
• Mid-range ($$): Le Marais Prestige Luxueux , 4-star apartment, located close to Pompidou Centre and Notre Dame Cathedral.
• Budget ($): Les Tournelles , 3-star hotel, located in the heart of the Marais area in Paris, a short walk from Place des Vosges and Saint Paul Metro Station.

2. Latin Quarter (5th Arrondissement)

The Latin Quarter (Quartier Latin) is a historic neighborhood in the 5th arrondissement. It is situated on the left bank of the River Seine and is renowned for its lively atmosphere, intellectual character, and strong association with academia.

The name “Latin Quarter” dates back to the Middle Ages when Latin was the language of scholarship and education in Europe. The area became the center of learning with the establishment of the University of Paris (Sorbonne) in the 12th century. It attracted scholars and students from all over Europe, who spoke Latin as the common language of communication.

Key highlights of the Latin Quarter include:

• The Sorbonne , one of the most famous universities in the world, founded in 1253 and remains a symbol of intellectualism and education.
• Panthéon , originally built as a church, now serves as a mausoleum for famous French figures, including Voltaire, Rousseau, Victor Hugo, and Marie Curie.
• Luxembourg Gardens , A beautiful public park that was once part of the Luxembourg Palace, now the seat of the French Senate.
• Sainte-Geneviève Library , a stunning library with a significant collection of rare books and manuscripts.
• Boulevard Saint-Germain , a major boulevard that runs through the Latin Quarter, known for its cafes, bookstores, and vibrant atmosphere.
• Rue Mouffetard, charming street with food markets, restaurants, and lively ambiance.
• Cluny Museum, dedicated to medieval artifacts, housed in the former Cluny Abbey.

While the Latin Quarter is generally safe , both day and night, it’s always a good idea to stay informed and take precautions wherever you travel. I recommend remaining vigilant and taking standard precautions to avoid pickpockets, the gold trick, fake petitions, and the card tricks.

The Latin Quarter remains a favorite spot for students, artists, tourists, and locals alike. Its narrow streets, diverse cuisine, and rich history make it an attractive destination for anyone visiting Paris.

Overall, Latin Quarter is one of the best areas to stay in Paris for visitors and budget travelers looking for a central location, more relaxed atmosphere, affordable accommodation and dining options as it is a student-friendly area with cheaper hotels than in Le Marais and St-Germain.

Best places to stay in Paris in Latin Quarter:

• luxury ($$$): Maison Colbert Member of Meliá Collection , 5-star hotel, located in a quiet street, a short walk from Notre Dame Cathedral, Ile-de-la-Cité and the Hotel de Ville.  
• Mid-range ($$): Hôtel Jardin de Cluny , 4-star hotel, situated between Notre Dame and the Sorbonne, in the heart of the Latin Quarter,  surrounded by markets, streetside cafés, boutiques and museums.
• Budget ($): Hotel du College de France , great 3-star hotel, located close to La Sorbonne University, Notre-Dame Cathedral, the Pantheon, Luxembourg Gardens, and Cluny-La Sorbonne Metro Station.

3. St Germain (6th Arrondissement)

St Germain (St-Germain-des-Prés) is often known as one of the best areas to stay in Paris for a family with kids due to its central location, safety, and proximity to major tourist attractions.

St Germain is a historic and vibrant neighborhood located on the left bank of the Seine River in the 6th arrondissement . It is one of the city’s most famous and beloved areas, known for its rich cultural heritage, charming streets, and lively atmosphere.

St Germain is home to numerous quaint sidewalk cafés, chic bistros, and gourmet restaurants , including the Café de Flore, Le Procope, and Les Deux Magots. The area is a hotspot for those seeking to enjoy delicious French cuisine and soak in the charming ambiance.

The neighborhood has a long association with the arts and literature. You’ll find several art galleries showcasing both contemporary and classic works, as well as iconic bookstores like Shakespeare and Company, which has been a literary hub for generations.

St Germain is a fashionable district with numerous luxury boutiques, designer shops, and stylish concept stores . The area is known for its high-end fashion and shopping opportunities.

The neighborhood is steeped in history, and you’ll encounter several important landmarks and monuments. The Église de Saint-Germain-des-Prés , for example, is one of the oldest churches in Paris, dating back to the 6th century.

While technically located just outside the borders of St Germain, the beautiful Luxembourg Gardens are within walking distance and are great spots to relax and jog. It has kid playgrounds and children’s puppet theater, which is perfect for a family having a fun day out.

St Germain has been historically associated with artistic and intellectual movements. In the 20th century, it was a hub for writers, philosophers, and artists like Ernest Hemingway, F. Scott Fitzgerald, and Pablo Picasso.

St Germain comes alive at night with a diverse array of nightlife options , including bars, jazz clubs, and live music venues. The area’s bohemian spirit is well-preserved in these nighttime hangouts.

The streets of St Germain are picturesque, lined with beautiful architecture , and filled with a delightful mix of modern life and historical charm.

St Germain is well-connected to other parts of Paris by public transportation. You can easily reach popular landmarks on foot or by metro . They include the Louvre, Tuileries Garden, Les Halles, the Eiffel Tower, d’Orsay Museum, and Catacombs.

Whether you’re interested in art, literature, fashion, or simply want to experience the quintessential Parisian lifestyle, St Germain is a fantastic place to explore and immerse yourself in the city’s rich cultural heritage.

Best places to stay in Paris in St Germain:

• luxury ($$$): Hôtel Bel Ami , 5-star hotel, located a 10-minute walk from the Louvre Museum. Buffet breakfast is served at the café, which opens onto Rue Saint Benoit.
• Mid-range ($$): Académie Hôtel Saint Germain , 4-star hotel, set in Paris’s prestigious Left Bank district, easy reach from  Saint-Germain-des-Pres Metro Station and  Notre-Dame Cathedral.
• Budget ($): Hotel Des Deux Continents , 3-star hotel in the heart of the Saint-Germain-des-Pres district, an easy walk from the Saint-Germain-des-Prés Metro Station and the Louvre Museum.

4. Gare de Lyon (12th Arrondissement)

Gare de Lyon is one of the major railway stations in Paris , located in the 12th arrondissement. It is one of the six large mainline railway stations in Paris and serves as a significant transportation hub to various domestic and international destinations.

Gare de Lyon, like any major railway station in a big city, is generally considered safe during the day and early evening when there are many people around. It is a busy transportation hub with a constant flow of commuters, tourists, and security personnel.

But, as with any heavily trafficked area, there may be pickpocketing and other petty crimes , so it’s essential to keep a close eye on your bags and valuables. Avoid displaying expensive items openly, such as smartphones, cameras, or jewelry, as they can attract unwanted attention.

During late hours, especially after midnight, some areas around train stations might become less crowded, and it’s advisable to e xercise increased caution , particularly if you are traveling alone.

Gare de Lyon was inaugurated in 1855 for the World’s Fair (Exposition Universelle) held in Paris that year. The station was designed by architect François-Alexandre Duquesney and later expanded and renovated by Marius Toudoire in 1900 to accommodate the increasing number of passengers and trains.

The station’s architecture is known for its distinctive clock tower, which stands tall on the facade facing the Place Louis-Armand. The clock tower is adorned with a clock and sculptures, making it a recognizable landmark of the area.

Gare de Lyon primarily serves destinations in the southeastern part of France, including cities like Lyon, Marseille, Nice, and Geneva in Switzerlan d. It also offers connections to other parts of France and international destinations, including Italy and Spain. 

Several high-speed trains, such as the TGV (Train à Grande Vitesse), operate from this station, ensuring quick and efficient travel to various regions.

Additionally, Gare de Lyon is well-connected to the Parisian public transportation network, making it easy for travelers to access other parts of the city using the metro, buses, and taxis.

The station is situated near the Seine River, and its location offers easy access to prominent landmarks. The Bastille Opera , a famous theater, is within walking distance from Gare de Lyon. 

The lively neighborhood of Bastille is also nearby, offering a plethora of restaurants, cafes, and shops. Furthermore, the beautiful Jardin des Plantes and the Bois de Vincennes are not far from the station, providing green spaces for relaxation and leisure activities.

Gare de Lyon remains an essential transportation hub, serving as a gateway to explore both Paris, France. and Europe. Its c onvenient location and excellent transportation connections make it a popular choice for both locals and visitors traveling by train.

Best places to stay in Paris in Gare de Lyon:

• Mid-range ($$): Courtyard by Marriott Paris Gare de Lyon , 5-star hotel, set in the 12th arr. District of Paris, short distance from Opéra Bastille.
• Mid-range ($$): citizenM Paris Gare de Lyon ,  4-star hotel located near to Gare de Lyon train station, offering views of the Seine. Charles de Gaulle is a half hour  train ride away with the direct RER B train from Chatelet.
• Budget ($): Hôtel Prince Albert Concordia , great 3-star hotel,  located in the centre of Paris, a short walk from the River Seine, Jardin des Plantes, Bastille, and AccorHotels Arena.

5. Montmartre (18th Arrondissement)

Montmartre is one of the most romantic places to stay in Paris . It is located on a hill in the northern part of the city, in the 18th arrondissement, and is well-known for its bohemian atmosphere, artistic history, and stunning views of Paris.

At the highest point in Montmartre lies the conic white-domed Sacré-Cœur Basilica , offering breathtaking views of the city. The interior of the basilica is beautifully adorned with mosaics and artwork.

Place du Tertre is a lively square and gathering spot for local artists who display their paintings and drawings, making it a great place to experience the artistic atmosphere of Montmartre.

One of the most famous cabaret venues in the world, the Moulin Rouge is located at the foot of Montmartre. It is renowned for its can-can dance performances and has a rich history dating back to the 19th century.

Surprisingly, Montmartre is home to a small vineyard, Le Clos Montmartre . Although not large, it adds a unique charm to the neighborhood and produces a limited quantity of wine each year.

Le Bateau-Lavoir was once a meeting place for prominent artists and writers, including Pablo Picasso, Amedeo Modigliani, and Max Jacob. It was an essential part of the artistic community in Montmartre during the early 20th century.

You’ll also find the Espace Dalí museum , dedicated to the works of the surrealist artist Salvador Dalí and houses a collection of his sculptures, drawings, and other artworks.

It is also home to the Café des Deux Moulins , a famous café featured in the movie Amélie. It is a delightful spot to enjoy a coffee and soak in the ambiance.

Aside from the popular landmarks, wandering through Montmartre’s narrow streets and staircases can lead you to discover many charming cafés, boutiques, and art studios. 

The area has retained much of its original village-like character, making it a beloved destination for visitors and a favorite spot for Parisians seeking a taste of artistic history.

Montmartre is generally considered a safe neighborhood , both day and night, with a high  presence of policemen. But, like any popular tourist destination, it’s essential to remain cautious, avoid walking alone at night, to ensure a safe experience.

Montmartre is located close to Pigalle , the Red-Light district, which means it can be related to drunks, drugs, and pickpockets. So be cautious, try to travel in a group, and avoid dark streets.

Best places to stay in Paris in Montmartre:

• Mid-range ($$): Hôtel Monsieur Aristide , 4-star hotel, located near La Cigale Concert Hall, Pigalle Metro Station and Gare du Nord Metro Station.
• Mid-range ($$): Montmartre Residence , self-catering accommodation located in the famous Montmartre district, easy walk to Abbesses Metro Station (Line 12), offering direct access to Place de la Concorde and the Tuileries Garden.
• Budget ($): Timhotel Montmartre , 3-star hotel in Montmartre district, within walking distance from Sacre Coeur Basilica, the Moulin Rouge and the Dali Museum. The Abbesses Metro Station is nearby with direct access to Montparnasse.

6. Canal Saint-Martin (10th Arrondissement)

The Canal Saint-Martin is a historic canal , which was constructed during the early 19th century under the orders of Napoleon Bonaparte. The primary purpose of the canal was to provide the city with a reliable source of fresh water and also to facilitate the transportation of goods.

The canal is situated in the northeastern part of Paris , running through the 10th and 11th arrondissements. The canal is approximately 4.5 kms long.

The canal has nine locks and numerous beautiful bridge s that cross over it. These locks allow boats to navigate the water level changes as they move along the canal.

The canal is flanked by tree-lined boulevards , making it a popular spot for leisurely walks and picnics. The surrounding area is known for its charming atmosphere and lively cafes.

While the canal was initially designed for transportation, it is no longer heavily used for this purpose. However, you can still find some leisure boats and tourist cruises along its waters.

In some parts of its route, the canal goes underground and resurfaces again , adding to its unique character.

Some bridges along the canal have moving parts that lift up to allow boats to pass through, which is an interesting sight to witness.

The Canal Saint-Martin has become an iconic landmark in Paris and is often frequented by locals and tourists alike. It offers a peaceful escape from the bustling city streets and is a great place to relax, take a stroll, or have a picnic with friends and family.

While Canal Saint-Martin is generally a safe area, it’s safer if you stay right on the canal. It is recommended to be careful and take care of your belongings around Gare du Nord and Gare de l’Est , two major railway stations in Paris, to avoid pickpocketing.

Best places to stay in Paris in Le:

• luxury ($$$): Renaissance Paris Republique Hotel & Spa , 5-star hotel, in the 10th district of Paris, easy walk from Place de la République, Canal St. Martin area, Le Marais and Grands Boulevards.
• Mid-range ($$): Albert’s Hotel , 4-star hotel, located within a short walk from Canal Saint-Martin and Place de la République, and Marais district.
• Budget ($): Le Citizen Hotel , 3-star hotel, set in Paris’s 10th district, near Place de la Republique, offering views of Saint-Martin Canal. 

You can watch this short video about the best areas in Paris for tourists:

7. Champs Elysées (8th arrondissement)

The Champs-Élysées is one of the most famous and iconic avenues in Paris. It is located in the 8th arrondissement and stretches for about 1.9 kms from the Place de la Concorde to the Arc de Triomphe.

The avenue is renowned for its historical significance, luxurious shops, theaters, cafés, and vibrant atmosphere. 

While the Champs-Élysées is generally safe during the day and early evening when it’s bustling with tourists and shoppers, it’s always wise to exercise caution at night, because it has a high concentration of Parisian nightclubs where you can encounter drunks or gangs of young people causing trouble.  

The Champs-Élysées dates back to the 17th century when it was originally created as a tree-lined avenue in the Tuileries Gardens. It was extended and developed over the years and eventually became a central part of Parisian life and culture.

Along the Champs-Élysées, you’ll find several notable landmarks, including the Arc de Triomphe, at the western end of the avenue. It is a monument dedicated to French soldiers who fought and died during the Napoleonic Wars and other conflicts.

The avenue is known for hosting various events and celebrations. One of the most famous is the Bastille Day military parade on July 14th, which commemorates the French National Day.

The Champs-Élysées is lined with high-end shops, boutiques, and flagship stores of many famous international brands, making it a premier shopping destination. Additionally, the avenue boasts restaurants, cafés, and theaters , making it a bustling spot for entertainment.

It’s important to note that the Champs-Élysées is also known for heavy traffic, with both vehicles and pedestrians vying for space. However, various initiatives have been taken to reduce car traffic and make the avenue more pedestrian-friendly.

Overall, the Champs-Élysées remains a symbol of elegance, prestige, and a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the beauty and charm of Paris.

Best places to stay in Paris in Champs Elysées:

• luxury ($$$): La Clef Champs-Élysées Paris by The Crest Collection , 5-star hotel, in center of Paris, on the edge of the Parisian Golden Triangle, this part of the 8th arrondissement, near Montaigne avenues, Champs-Elysées, Louis Vuitton store, and Arc de Triomphe.
• Mid-range ($$): Montfleuri 4-star boutique hotel, located close to the Champs Elysées, Porte Maillot and its Palais des Congrès. Easy access to Charles de Gaulle-Etoile Metro Station with direct links to the Louvre Museum.
• Budget ($): Hôtel Galileo Champs Elysées , 3-star hotel, set very near the  Avenue des Champs Élysées and the Arc de Triomphe. 
• Where to stay in Paris first time
• Where to stay in Paris on a budget
• How many days in Paris is Enough?
• 50 Best things to do in Paris, France
• How Much is a Trip to Paris?
• How to Spend 4 Days in Paris

In conclusion, Le Marais, Latin Quarter, St Germain, Gare de Lyon, Montmartre, Canal Saint-Martin, and Champs Elysée are the best and safest places to stay in Paris for tourists and first-timers. They all have central locations, easy access to public transportations, attractions and amenities.

Le Marais is ideal for history buffs and foodies; Latin Quarter is perfect for budget travelers, students and intellectuals; St. Germain offers an artistic haven; Gare de Lyon is an excellent base for transit convenience; Montmartre is a bohemian retreat; 

Canal Saint-Martin, a trendy and laid-back spot; and Champs Elysées, a luxury shopper’s dream. Each area caters to different interests, making Paris a diverse and welcoming destination for all.

About Author: Linda Smith

I'm Linda Smith, the Hotel Expert, an experienced travel blogger who passionate about traveling. I'm here to share with you all my travel experiences and tips. I cover a wide range of travel topics, specializing in sharing information about the best areas, neighborhoods, and hotels in each city. I hope all these things will make your travel easier.

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France travel advice: Is it safe to go and where are the riots happening?

3 July 2023, 15:39

By Zoe Adams

Is it safe to travel to Paris and Nice? Where are the riots happening? Here's all the latest advice and guidelines if you're planning on travelling to France.

Riots and violent protests have erupted across many areas in France including Paris, Marseille and Lyons following the tragic death of 17-year-old Nahel Merzouk .

A police officer shot the teenager dead after a routine traffic stop in Nanterre, Paris, after claiming their lives were at risk. Social media footage has since shown this to be untrue leading to the officer's arrest.

Following the event, riots have continued to take place across the country despite President Emmanuel Macron's urge for calm to come back to the streets.

So far, thousands of arrests have been made as rioters continue to destroy buildings, set cars alight and cause severe disruption. A young firefighter has also lost his life after tackling a blaze in an underground car park.

Read more: France deploys armoured vehicles to stop riots as bus and tram services scrapped after three nights of devastation

Read more: 'I hurt for my France': Kylian Mbappé and other French footballers slam Paris police for shooting teenager dead

And while the riots are showing signs of slowing down, with the school summer holidays approaching and with millions who have planned trips to France, including hotspots like Nice, the question is, is it safe to travel?

Here's the latest UK government advice on travelling to France and where the French riots are taking place.

Is is safe to travel to France?

The UK government recently updated their travel advice for France and suggests anyone with plans to visit don't need to change their trip but are warned to be vigilant and remain up to date with latest updates.

They have, however, warned travellers to avoid visiting places where riots are happening, like Paris.

Their website reads: "Since 27 June, riots have taken place across France. Many have turned violent. Shops, public buildings and parked cars have been targeted. There may be disruptions to road travel and local transport provision may be reduced. Some local authorities may impose curfews. Locations and timing of riots are unpredictable.

"You should monitor the media, avoid areas where riots are taking place, check the latest advice with operators when travelling and follow the advice of the authorities."

They have also advised you check your travel insurance and make sure it provides adequate cover.

Around 17 million British nationals visit France each year, according to the Foreign Office.

Simon Calder warns tourists to France to 'monitor local media' following widespread rioting

Where are the French riots happening?

Paris is the most heavily affected part of France as it was closest to where Nahel was shot.

Nanterre and the surrounding suburbs of Paris are also particularly heavy. There are also riots in Lille, Toulouse, Marseille, Pau and Lyons.

Riots have swept cities for almost a week now but they are beginning to show signs of slowing down. Demonstrations are taking place during the day with riots taking over at night.

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Paris Bound? Tick Off These 8 Essentials First

Heading to Paris? Before you dive into the magic of the City of Light, make sure you’re fully prepared for a hassle-free journey. From verifying your passport to downloading essential travel apps, these eight crucial steps will ensure smooth travels and let you enjoy Paris to the fullest.

Traveling can be stressful, especially when you’re unprepared. As an experienced traveler, I’ve learned the hard way that missing even a small detail can turn a dream trip into a nightmare.

Rushing to the hospital after my youngest broke his collar bone at the Niagara Falls? Been there and don’t recommend it.

That’s why I’ve put together this comprehensive list of must-dos to help you avoid common pitfalls. With these expert tips, you’ll be on the safe side and can enjoy Paris worry-free.

Salut, I am Lena – travel planning expert and parisienne since 2006 🩷

If you purchase through links on this site, I may earn – at no cost to you – a small commission. This helps me cover my costs and keep my website running. Thank you so much for your support 🙂   Learn more

Before You Go to Paris: Your 8-Step Checklist

Without further ado, here’s for the checklist that covers the essential steps you need to complete before heading to Paris. Let’s dive in and get you ready for an unforgettable adventure!

#1 Verify Your Passport

To travel to France, you’ll need, of course, a passport. But that’s just the beginning. Your passport must be valid for at least three months beyond your planned departure from the Schengen area.

If it’s not, you could be refused boarding by the airline. To play it safe, ensure your passport is valid for at least six months at the time of your departure, even though technically three months is the minimum.

It’s a simple check that can save you a lot of trouble and ensure your Parisian adventure starts smoothly. I also recommend checking the French Government page for more detailed and up-to-date information.

#2 Buy an eSim to Stay Connected

my recommendation: eSim from Airalo. Check data packages here.

Staying connected while traveling is crucial, and buying an eSim is a game-changer. With an eSIM, you can seamlessly stay connected without worrying about hefty roaming charges.

I use Airalo for my travels, and it has revolutionized how I stay in touch and navigate new places. And how much time and money I save, now, that I don’t have to organize a local SIM card upon arrival anymore.

I also that I stay in full control of my spendings: 3 GB cost only €10 for example.

Airalo offers digital SIM cards, known as eSIMs, that can be downloaded and installed for over 200 countries and regions. It sounds complicated, but their app guides you through it step by step.

This means you can access the Internet as soon as you land in Paris, or virtually any other country, without the hassle of finding a local SIM card. Check data packages here.

#3 Get Travel Insurance

My recommendation : V isitorCoverage (Trustpilot rating 4.8/5.0) Rates start as little as €7 for a week in Paris

Travel insurance is a must-have for any trip, and Paris is no exception. I can’t stress this enough, don’t travel without. It’s a small investment for peace of mind. Take a look at all available plans with V isitorCoverage .

Because accidents, illnesses, or unexpected events can happen anytime, and being unprepared can turn your dream vacation into a stressful ordeal.

When my youngest broke his collar bone at the Niagara Falls, knowing that we were insured was such a relief. The situation was already bad enough.

Well, the lesson we learned when back at home was, though, to call the insurance BEFORE going to the hospital, but that’s another story.

Travel insurance provides coverage for medical emergencies, trip cancellations, lost luggage, and more, depending on the plan you choose. Ensuring you have reliable travel insurance means you can explore Paris with confidence, knowing you’re covered if anything goes wrong.

➡️ Click here to compare the different plans at VisitorCoverage.

#4 Apply for Visa or ETIAS

Before heading to Paris, make sure you have the necessary travel authorization. Depending on your nationality, you may need to apply for a Schengen visa. The “ Visa Wizard ” from the French Government is a great help here.

Important: if you traveled so far without a visa to Europe, the requirements are changing in mid-2025!

Starting in 2025, travelers from visa-exempt countries will need to apply for ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) before entering the Schengen Area.

The process is straightforward and quick, but requires some advance planning. So don’t leave it until the last minute and make 100% sure to land on the official ETIAS page. It’s this one: https://travel-europe.europa.eu/etias_en

Without a valid ETIAS or Visa, the airline will not let you board the plane.

#5 Call your Bank to Avoid Financial Surprises

Before you travel to Paris, you definitely need to give your bank a heads-up about your trip. This way they are aware of incoming payments from abroad and won’t freeze your bank account due to suspicious activity.

Having to deal with banks and blocked credit cards is probably the last you want when in Paris.

Additionally, ask about foreign transaction fees and ATM withdrawal limits to avoid unexpected charges. This way, you’ll know what to expect and can make an informed decision about whether to exchange some money back home, use your card in France, or opt for a mix of both.

#6 Buy Paris Attraction Tickets

Here’s my list of 5 Paris Sights to Book in Advance – and 5 NOT to

Paris is home to some of the world’s most popular attractions, and many sights are sold out in advance or require long queuing times. Just popping by is often not an option.

To avoid disappointment and make the most of your trip, buy your attraction tickets in advance. Especially those, that you absolutely don’t want to miss and that are not negotiable for you.

Plus, you’ll save time by skipping the long ticket lines, giving you more time to explore and enjoy the city.

Here’s for you, a list of sights that you should book in advance, as they often sell out:

• Eiffel Tower book here (no fast past on site)
• Louvre Museum Book here
• Arc de Triomphe Book here
• Musée d’Orsay Book here
• Catacombs Book here
• Château de Versailles Book here
• Sainte Chapelle Book here

#7 Download Paris Travel Apps

my recommendations ➡️ 9 Paris Apps You Need to Download Before Traveling

Before you leave home, make sure you have the indispensable apps travel apps on your phone. Whether it’s for directions, restaurant recommendation, tickets, using the metro or simply to translate French to your mother tongue: there’s an app for everything, and it makes traveling SO MUCH easier.

And if you got your eSim before your trip, you don’t even need to worry to about your data plan.

Take a look at my article 9 Paris Apps You Need to Download Before Traveling to know which apps to download.

#8 Get a Travel Adapter, Converter & a Power Bank

Make sure to add a travel adapter when packing for Paris . France uses Type C and Type E plugs, so your devices might not be compatible with the local sockets. Without an adapter, you won’t be able to charge your phone, laptop, or other essentials.

I have been using this travel adapter for years now and can recommend it.

Additionally, check if your devices need a voltage converter, as France operates on a 230V. To use, for example, a US hair straightener in France, you will likely need a voltage converter. This one doubles as a converter and an adapter.

Shop Your Travel Gear

Travel Adapter

View on Amazon

Voltage Converter

To find out if you require it, check the label on your device to see if it supports dual voltage (such as 100-240V). If it does, you will only need a plug adapter . If it does not, you will need a voltage converter to avoid damaging your device or causing a black-out in the entire building.

And lastly, a power bank is a lifesaver in a city where charging options can be limited, especially when you’re out exploring all day. I find the power banks for Anker are the most reliable – this is the external battery that I use.

With these essentials checked off, you’re all set for a seamless and unforgettable Parisian adventure. Bon voyage!

Parisienne since 2006 🩷

Expert in: Parisian Life &

French Culture, Travel

Planning, Crochet & Food and Drinks

Join me on Facebook for updates and news about Paris.

CHECKLIST for your Paris Trip

✔ Hotel booked?

• Budget: Hotel France Albion (8.6)
• Midrange: Hôtel des Arts (9.6)
• Upscale: Millésime Hôtel (9.2)
• Luxury: La Demeure Montaigne (9.1)
• My Favorite: Hôtel Monte Cristo

✔ Tickets booked?

• Eiffel Tower ( book here )
• Paris City Pass ( book here )
• Louvre ( book here )
• Arc de Triomphe ( book here )
• Hop On Hop Off Bus ( book here )

Paris Travel Tips

• 🚨 Get Travel Insurance
• Buy your SIM card in advance
• Get a Travel Adapter
• Book your airport transfer

Fun Activities

• Explore the Covered Arcades
• Discover the quaint Bookstores
• Find Paris Hidden Cocktail Bars
• Take an easy Day Trip by train

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The Best Time to Visit Paris for Cheap Flights and Fewer Crowds

By Matt Ortile

The question of when is the best time to visit Paris was answered by Audrey Hepburn in the 1963 classic Sabrina : “ Paris is always a good idea.” A spring stroll through the Jardin du Luxembourg, a summer evening along the Canal Saint-Martin, a fall morning whiled away sur la terrasse avec un café , twinkling holiday markets in the winter—it all sounds so fabulous that one single trip can’t cover it all. But if you’re someone who strategizes around attending (or avoiding) big events in the French capital, or would like to cash in on prime deals for hotels and flights, there is of course a slight science to it all.

To get some expert advice on the best time to visit Paris, I spoke to two of Condé Nast Traveler ’s Top Travel Specialists : Nick Cunningham, the destination manager for Europe at Scott Dunn; and Camilla Davidson, the head of destination management for France at Red Savannah. Both offered tips about the city’s cultural calendar, the must-see sights, and other insider tips that will make your Paris experience—much like Audrey Hepburn’s in Sabrina —one to write home about.

Paris in the spring remains one of the best times to visit for temperate weather and fewer tourists.

What is the best time to go to Paris?

The best times to visit Paris are the months that shoulder the summer season: April, early May, September, and early October. “The days are still warm and balmy but without the sweltering heat of peak summertime,” says Davidson of Red Savannah. You’re more likely to avoid the crowds at this time too, when many of the families traveling with kids are back at work and school.

Cunningham of Scott Dunn agrees that avoiding the months of June, July, and August are a smart idea; temperatures all over Europe are rising , and the city heat and humidity of Paris can feel oppressive. September is his favorite time to visit the French capital, since you won’t need a coat: “Though, it is Paris. In case fall does come early, any excuse is better than none to don a fashionable coat and make the streets of Paris your very own runway.”

When is peak season in Paris?

Peak season in Paris begins at the end of May with the Roland-Garros (a.k.a. the French Open) and runs through the summer, ending in the middle of September . Davidson notes that many Parisians also take their grands vacances in August, when they decamp to the beach or the mountains, so many small boutiques and restaurants close for the month. Also, this means August may feel more packed with tourists than usual because all the locals are away, and you may not get to experience all the insider Paris recs you got from your friends for things like hole-in-the-wall wine bars and must-visit thrift shops.

Don’t forget to keep an eye on the fashion world’s calendar, Cunningham cautions: “Despite the fantastic opportunities for spotting A-list celebrities , be warned that if you visit during fashion weeks, especially womenswear, it’s possible you will see higher prices everywhere during seemingly surprising times of the year in the fall and spring.” For what it’s worth: the women’s ready-to-wear shows—what most people call “Paris Fashion Week”—occur in late February or early March and late September or early October .

There are plenty of historic cafés in Paris like Les Deux Magots where you can while away the day.

What is the cheapest time to go to Paris?

Generally, the cheapest time to go to Paris is in the window from mid-November to mid-December, says Cunningham, “after the insanely busy summer tourist season, but before the holiday season , when prices leading just up to and after New Year’s skyrocket.” During this time, you avoid most of the major events on the annual calendar like fashion week, the French Open, and the like, giving you plenty of room at hotels and shorter lines at the main tourist attractions.

With the Olympics happening in France this year, the cheapest time to go to Paris in 2024 is after the summer, specifically October and November, according to Laura Lindsay, the global travel trends expert at Skyscanner, the search aggregator and travel agency. As for 2025, the beginning of the calendar is looking like a good time to book your flights, she says. January , February, and March have flights starting at $330 roundtrip from the United States to Paris.

For cheaper plane tickets to Paris, Lindsay recommends playing with your itinerary. Roundtrip flights from and to the most convenient airports are most desirable and often priced accordingly by airlines . “Sometimes it’s cheaper to fly out with one airline and back with another,” she says. “You can also look at flying in or out of one airport and back to or from another. This is especially handy for cities with multiple airports like Paris, London, and New York. It can take a bit of playing with the flight search, but it can result in finding great flight deals.”

How many days in Paris do you need as a first timer?

Both Davidson and Cunningham suggest four to five days in Paris for the average first-time visit. Travelers can cover a handful of must-see sights in Paris, but an extra fifth day can offer some breathing room and time to enjoy the city at a more leisurely pace. This is Paris after all. Simply strolling through the streets for a bit of French flânerie will always yield some new-to-you discoveries, be it a café , a bakery, a boutique, or some small patch of green.

By Madison Flager

By Abigail Malbon

By Melissa Liebling-Goldberg

By Lauren Dana Ellman

Crowds are a given at the Louvre, but time your arrival strategically for a calmer experience

What are the must-see places in Paris?

Naturally, the Eiffel Tower , the Louvre , and the Sacré-Cœur in Montmartre are among the must-see tourist attractions in Paris, but be prepared for crowds to be there year-round. Try going early when you can; watching the sunrise at the foot of the Sacré-Cœur with a view overlooking the French capital is definitely worth the wake-up call and the hike up the hill. Additionally, the boat rides along the Seine are one of the tourist attractions that even Parisians can appreciate; Cunningham suggests going at golden hour, just as the city lights come to life at dusk, for a truly mesmerizing display of the City of Light.

As for more off-the-beaten-path experiences, Cunningham recommends a guided tour of the Palais Garnier , the most famous opera house in the city: “It’s a very brief visit that doesn’t take much time, but it delivers perhaps one of the most interesting tours you can do in the city.” Davidson also offers a useful strategy for seeing art and culture in the city: “Paris is so filled with museums, galleries, and art exhibitions that I always suggest visitors to pick just one gallery and focus on that, to avoid ‘museum fatigue’ and focus on a particular area of interest for you.”

Note that the Notre Dame Cathedral is due to reopen at the end of 2024 after extensive reconstruction and restoration in the wake of the devastating fire in the spring of 2019. It’s one of the most anticipated reopenings happening in the city this year, the other being that of the Grand Palais. Book tickets early, if you want to go, and be prepared to muscle through the crowds.

What else should I know before visiting Paris?

Always make sure to greet shop owners and staff when entering a store, a restaurant, a hotel—any building in Paris, really. “It’s considered rude to wait for them to greet you,” Cunningham explains. Bonjour and merci will get you far; you’ll find that just saying hello and thank you will make your experience in the city all the more pleasant.

Davison also suggests bringing comfortable walking shoes . Much of the city is walkable, and you’ll miss a lot of the beautiful city scenery if you’re just shuttling back and forth between tourist sites via the Metro or taxis. She also recommends visiting a museum on the first Sunday of the month, which is when many art institutions offer free admission. “It’s a great way to explore some of the lesser-known museums, with less commitment than an expensive ticketed admission.”

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8 Rules About French Etiquette From Someone Who Lived in Paris

Mind your p’s, q’s, and ooh la las when visiting the capital this summer..

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Queuing is consider polite in Paris, but don’t be afraid to assert yourself.

Photo by timsimages.uk / Shutterstock

The French get a bad rap. But following nearly a decade of living in Paris, I can confidently say they’re not rude, they’re simply . . . French. They’re not huggers. They’re not yellers. Most are subtle traditionalists who can be a bit aloof. So if you come at them with your big old American energy, they may stiffen up. In other words, it’s not them, it’s you. Or it’s you, but it’s also them. It’s all of us!

Every country and its citizens are different. Of course, based on your well-worn passport and accumulated air miles, you know that all cultures have a certain way of doing things, but during my time as a resident, I picked up a few less obvious, unspoken rules about French etiquette that may benefit you during your next trip to Paris. Abide by them and tout va bien . All will be fine.

1. Always say “Bonjour”

It seems simple enough: Say hello. But ask yourself the last time you greeted a stranger when entertaining an elevator. That’s what I thought. In France, you say hello to anyone and everyone. It’s common courtesy. The shopkeeper at the boutique? Bonjour. The barista who’s about to make your crème? Bonjour. The neighbor you passed in the stairwell? Bonsoir. (Because it’s nighttime — don’t forget to switch when the sun sets, but don’t worry if you forget. The French do, too.) Honestly, just say “bonjour/bonsoir” into the air whenever you find yourself no longer alone. Maybe it’s silly, but maybe it’s also . . . nice? Oh, and while you’re at it, merci and s’il vous plait (thank you and please) go a long way, too.

2. Ask first

In the USA, we’re accustomed to getting what we want, when we want it—or even sometimes when we don’t (like, say, the bill if we’re still swallowing dessert). In France, it’s customary to ask first. This goes for everything from a visit to the market to placing an order at a café or the check at a restaurant. You may be tempted to smell a peach or squeeze an avocado at the marché , but many vendors prefer to select individual pieces of produce for you. (If there are empty bags for the taking, you can DIY.) The same goes for taking photos—of fruit stands, artwork, and inside stores. (Your lunch is fine. They’re used to it.)

Also, while craft coffee shops like Noir and Ten Belles now offer milk alternatives (ask for avoine if you want oat) and cold brew, don’t expect to find either on the menu at any of the classic corner cafés. And consider “cold” a relative term as they only drop in two or three ice cubes. If you want actual iced coffee you need to specify how much ice—or go to Starbucks.

Finally, at restaurants you won’t get the bill until you’re ready for it. But don’t be all “Garcon!” and wave your arm or napkin around. Simple eye contact and a signing gesture or saying, “l’addition, s’il vous plaît ” will do the trick.

3. Avoid talking about work

Asking someone what they do for a living is standard small talk in the United States. It usually comes after “What’s your name?” and “Where do you live?” But in France, they are not concerned with your job or title. They may ask, “What do you do in life?” But they mean for fun, as in what brings you joy? Even when taking an order at a restaurant, the server will ask, “ Ce qui vous fait plaisir? " (“What pleases you?”) This is true work-to-live land, so think beyond the cubicle, commute, and keyboard. Politics, on the other hand, is a more accepted topic of conversation.

4. Make eye contact

Not only should you not take a sip of your wine without first clinking glasses with your fellow dining companions, but also be prepared to stare deep into their souls while doing so. It’s considered rude to “cheers” or, in France, “ santé ” without looking the other person in the eye. Remember: Life is pleasure. Pleasure is wine. When you imbibe with others, there is no race to taste the tannins. Rather, consider it a time to savor and acknowledge each other or the moment even if it’s not following a significant speech or at a wedding or retirement party.

5. Chill, don’t spill

After so many years in France, it now makes me giggle when I see bachelorettes or Real Housewives open a bottle of champagne and— the horror !—spray it all over themselves and others. (Don’t even get me started on “ Champère ” in Emily in Paris .) The French would never. (Unless, that is, they are a skilled saberer or a descendant of Napoleon.) To open a bottle of champagne in France is to do so delicately, discreetly, and efficiently so as not to interrupt the purity of the product and make a mess. There should be a subtle hiss, not a pop. Adding orange juice to make a Mimosa is a no-no, too. Champagne stands alone.

6. Tip, but don’t overdo it

At almost all restaurants, the price of a meal includes a service charge, and staff are paid appropriately so tipping is not expected. Some people leave 10–12 percent, especially if it’s a place they frequent often or if they have exceptional service. But a few €1 or €2 coins are totally fine, while dumping your leftover change is not. Likewise, overcompensating will label you a tourist, so in both cases, it’s better to leave nothing at all. While some spots have begun to adopt the Americanism of asking for gratuity via contactless payment machines, don’t feel awkward about declining.

>> Read more about tipping in France

7. Casual is cool but put in some effort

Let’s not forget this is where Chanel and Louis Vuitton come from. No need to wear heels, let alone put on a full face of makeup for an outing to the Louvre. But as with food, fashion is also considered a pleasure, and the French honor it by putting thought and effort into their appearance. While athleisure as an outfit has become more tolerated and people now wear gym clothes to and from their workouts (and just work out more, in general), it isn’t necessarily going to get you a front-row seat at fashion week.

During the day, jeans, a nice tee, and les baskets (sneakers) work, whereas for the evening changing to a button-down, skirt, or blazer will elevate the look. As does a red lip for women (though, it is also accepted during the day) and a scarf for men (which is also accepted year-round). But you’ll be hard-pressed to find a French adult in shorts and a baseball cap.

8. Wait your turn, but also get in there

Queuing is considered more of a courtesy in France, by which I mean you should always look around to be sure you haven’t accidentally skipped ahead of someone—at the bakery , outside a WC, or au comptoir (at the bar)—but the French are also not afraid to be assertive and have little patience for anything other than waiting for a freshly baked baguette. So long as you’re polite and within reason, get after yours, too.

Paris mayor promises the Seine will be ready for the Olympics and vows to swim in famed river before athletes do

PARIS — Mayor Anne Hidalgo on Wednesday assured Olympians that the River Seine will be safe for swimming and promised to take a dip into the waters before athletes dive in.

Open water swimming events are set to be held in the Seine in the upcoming Summer Games, but river pollution levels have sparked health and safety concerns.

The mayor had been set to take a dip on Sunday, but canceled. She told NBC News on Wednesday that the change of plans was due to weather and demands of the campaign season .

"Yes, I will swim in the River Seine, not now because the weather is not so well in Paris, but also because we have election ," she said.

"It is not possible to organize the jump to the river during the election, and now we are with a new date for this very great moment before the opening ceremony, because I want to swim in the River Seine before the opening ceremony." 

On Wednesday, Fluidion, a tech company that develops water testing products, said it would release live data about E. coli levels in Seine on daily basis.

Hidalgo insisted the river is safe for swimming: “It’s ready, it’s ready.”

Marathon swimming is scheduled for Aug. 8-9, while the triathlon is set for July 30-31 . In a worst-case scenario, the triathlon could theoretically be reduced to a duathlon , with just running and cycling and no swimming.

A mixed relay of the triathlon is scheduled for Aug. 5 .

"When it’s good it’s a nice green color, [but] lately it’s just been brown," said Philippe Leclercq, 18, who lives with his American mother and French father on a houseboat moored along the Seine under the Eiffel Tower.

The family has been temporarily moved downriver to make way for cleanup efforts and given opening ceremony tickets for their inconvenience.

“We are so excited about the Olympics we just cannot wait," said his mother, Holly Hasegawa-Leclercq. "It’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.”

Mayor Hidalgo's comments came exactly one month before opening ceremonies of the Paris G ames — the first Olympics following the Covid-19 pandemic which severely impacted the 2022 Beijing Winter competition and forced a year's delay of 2020 Tokyo summer event.

Keir Simmons and Chapman Bell reported from Paris and David K. Li from New York City.

CORRECTION (June 27, 2024, 7 a.m. ET): A previous version of this article misstated who launched a website to post daily measures of E.coli taken from samples of the Seine. It was Fluidion, a tech company that develops water testing products, not the city of Paris.

Keir Simmons is chief international correspondent for NBC News, based in London.

Chapman Bell is a London-based producer and on-air correspondent for NBC News. 

David K. Li is a senior breaking news reporter for NBC News Digital.

Money blog: 27 areas where Aldi wants to open new stores as a 'priority'

Welcome to the Money blog, your place for personal finance and consumer news and advice. Let us know your thoughts on any of the topics we're covering using the comments box below.

Thursday 27 June 2024 13:55, UK

• Warning 400,000 homes face jump of more than 50% in mortgage costs
• 'New normal' for mortgage rates won't be below 3.5%, lender boss says
• The cheapest London musicals to see this summer
• Free £25 Tesco voucher for energy supplier's customers
• The products you should never buy at full price
• Popular brand explains customer ban after angry backlash

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Is your area crying out for a new supermarket to broaden your options and push prices down with a bit of competition?

Last month, the UK’s fourth largest supermarket - Aldi - asked shoppers to get in touch with their views on where it should open new stores.

The discount chain says it received thousands of replies, which it has used to hone its search for new store sites.

At the moment, Aldi has more than 1,020 stores. It says it wants more than 1,500 stores across the UK in the long run.

The 27 areas of priority to Aldi are:

• Woodford, London
• Surbiton, London
• South Croydon, London
• Notting Hill, London
• Walthamstow, London
• Beckenham, London
• Bromley, London
• Barnet, London
• Redhill, Surrey
• Aldershot, Hampshire
• Haywards Heath, West Sussex
• Burgess Hill, West Sussex
• Chatham, Kent
• Cheadle, Greater Manchester
• Chorlton, Manchester
• Formby, Liverpool
• Newark, Nottinghamshire
• Chesterfield, Derbyshire
• Wellingborough, Northamptonshire
• Rayleigh, Essex
• Brentwood, Essex
• Dorchester, Dorset
• Clarkston, Scotland
• Cathcart, Scotland
• Penzance, Cornwall
• Warwick, Warwickshire
• Bath, Somerset

Jonathan Neale, managing director of national real estate at Aldi UK, said: "We want to make high quality food accessible to all, but we can’t do that while there are still some towns and areas that either don’t have an Aldi or have capacity for additional stores.

"We recognise there is huge demand in certain regions for more stores, which is why we decided to get the public’s input on our latest list of priority locations."

Which?, the consumer website and magazine, has ranked Aldi as the cheapest supermarket in the UK consistently this year.

Using a typical list of popular items, Which? ranked Aldi as the cheapest place to shop from January to May - with rivals Lidl coming in second.

However, for a longer list of items and a bigger shop, Asda and Morrisons have typically been the top two for Which? this year.

Customers of both Tesco and OVO Energy are entitled to 2,500 free Clubcard points, the supermarket has announced.

The points can be redeemed as a £25 voucher or at double their value with Clubcard reward partners.

Customers can unlock the points by linking their accounts with both companies.

"The cost of living remains a key challenge for households and our partnership with Tesco is one of the many ways in which we are giving back to our customers with rewards that they can spend how they choose," said Mat Moakes, chief commercial officer at OVO.

New customers can link their Tesco Clubcard account when they sign up as an OVO customer, while existing OVO customers can log into their account, go to their profile, click "our partners", and select the Tesco Clubcard logo.

Want to see a show in London this summer without breaking the bank? 

You're in luck - as new data has revealed the most affordable musicals to see in the capital right now. 

The data, collated by theatre ticket site SeatPlan , shows the most affordable musical to see in London right now is Two Strangers (Carry A Cake Across New York), with the average cheapest ticket price at £17.90. 

The rom-com musical follows a British boy (Dougal), who lands in New York for his dad's second wedding. 

At the airport, he meets the bride's sister, and a quirky, offbeat love story ensues.

Also in the top 10 are Marie Curie The Musical (£20), Guys And Dolls (£23.90) and Sister Act (£26.40). 

Shows are ranked by the average price of the cheapest ticket, with the top ranked show having the lowest price.

On the flip side, the data also revealed the most expensive tickets, by analysing internal pricing data for musicals from SeatPlan.com. 

Musicals including Cabaret (£85.10), Mean Girls (£64.60) and Starlight Express (£43.70) make up this list...

If you've been reassured by positive recent news on inflation and a widely-anticipated cut in interest rates later this year, unfortunately the Bank of England has a worrying update for mortgage payers.

About three million UK households are still set to witness hikes in their mortgage repayments over the next two years, the Bank has said.

Its Financial Policy Committee (FPC) added there are likely to be "very large increases" of more than 50% for the mortgages of around 400,000 households.

But the central bank stressed that UK lenders are still in a strong position to support households and businesses, even if the economic backdrop worsens.

The concerning update is in the Bank's latest Financial Stability Report.

It also showed that most households have already had an increase in their mortgage rates since borrowing costs began rising substantially in 2022.

Why is the outlook so bad if interest rates are expected to fall?

Interest rates are at a 16-year-high of 5.25%, with the central bank voting to maintain the figure for a seventh consecutive meeting earlier this month.

But many economists have predicted the base rate could be reduced at the Bank's next vote in August.

However, at the moment, around 35% of households with mortgages, or more than three million, are paying below 3% for a range of reasons - like existing deals which pre-dated the recent crisis - and are expected to see an increase between now and the end of 2026.

A typical household rolling off a fixed-rate mortgage before the end of 2026 is due to face a jump of around £180 a month, the report said.

It highlighted that an "increasing proportion" of households have been choosing to borrow over a longer period of time, reducing monthly repayments but leaving them with more debt to service over time.

Higher mortgage rates have resulted in many households and renters reducing their savings, the Bank also found.

PrettyLittleThing is facing more criticism after announcing it would issue refunds on delivery subscriptions for accounts it has banned for returning too many items.

The online fashion giant says it will refund outstanding gift cards and store credit, as well as £9.99 to closed accounts which had already purchased its royalty service entitling them to unlimited next day delivery for a year.

The company said: "We have noticed an extremely high returns rate from a small pool of customers who have demonstrated behaviours that were inconsistent with what we experience with the rest of our customer base.

"The actions taken are not designed to limit our customers who do need to return or deter them from returning, it was taken to address a small proportion of customers who have a high returns rate."

PrettyLittleThing added it does not plan to close any further accounts.

Some customers were not happy with the response, with one posting on X: "This is bullshit my last return was December 2023... and of course you turned off the comments."

Another wrote: "PrettyLittleThing expects us to order our clothes twice because their sizing is off and is closing people's accounts because of frequent returns. What a way to ruin your own business."

By  James Sillars , business reporter

Amazon was grabbing attention overnight.

It's become the fifth US company to reach a $2trn market value milestone.

Can you name the others? Answers below!

Analysts are crediting strong demand for technology-related stocks amid the rush for AI.

They also point to the growing hope among investors for a late summer/early autumn interest rate cut by the US central bank.

Amazon's shares ended the session on Wall St almost 4% up at $193 apiece.

The FTSE 100 has had a fairly muted start after falling almost 0.3% yesterday.

The index was one point up at 8,226 in early dealing.

In the wider market, Halfords stock was trading 6% lower.

The cycle sales and motor-focused retailer had earlier reported a fall in annual profits of almost a fifth and said that trading remained "soft".

The message to the market from Currys, the electricals chain, was more upbeat.

It revealed a 10% lift to its bottom line in the year to 27 April and said it was more confident about demand ahead.

Currys shares were 1% down, however, potentially reflecting concerns that its profit performance was not driven by higher sales.

Before I go... the answers to the $2trn+ club question above, as promised - the other members of this elite grouping are: Microsoft, Apple, Nvidia and Alphabet.

More than half of councils are not confident their area is prepared to roll out the next phase of free childcare, a report has found.

From September, 15 hours of free childcare a week will be available to working parents of all children aged over nine months old - expanding the policy from working parents of two-year-olds.

But 59% of local authorities say they are unsure if they will have enough places, citing significant challenges in recruiting and retaining staff, according to research by Coram Family and Childcare.

"For this policy to be a success, it is essential that all families can take up their entitlements, and the next few months will be a crucial time in making sure they can," said Ellen Broome, managing director of Coram.

The childcare changes coming in September are the penultimate phase of a policy introduced by the chancellor at the budget last year.

In September 2025, all working parents of children aged over nine months olds will be eligible for 30 hours free childcare per week.

Coram found only 11% of councils were confident there will be enough places to meet demand - a figure almost unchanged since January.

At present, 52% of councils say all or almost all eligible parents seeking 15 hours of free childcare have been able to.

But Ms Broome added: "We are concerned there may be further issues not only this September, but further down the line for families in getting the childcare they need." 

Beyond workforce challenges, 36% of councils identified local buildings and space as barriers to delivering the service.

Martin Lewis has hit out at the Conservatives for using him in an attack ad.

The Tories posted a clip of the Money Saving Expert founder on X describing how a senior Labour member had told him they wanted to introduce a policy that was not in its manifesto.

Mr Lewis said the discussion he had been referring to was not about tax rises, but the Conservatives featured the video alongside the words: "They're not telling you the full truth. Labour have said they wouldn't put up your taxes. But it's now becoming clear that they have every intention to put them up."

Criticising the ad, Mr Lewis wrote: "NOWHERE in this comment do I talk about taxes.

"And the policy that I discussed (I will keep private as it was private) was NOT about taxes, or tax rises, it was about something that would be a positive change."

The Tories' original post was later tagged with a community note – a feature on X allowing readers to add context to a claim.

"Martin Lewis has confirmed that the policy he refers to in the video was not about taxes, and so is unrelated to the text it is presented alongside," the note read.

Labour, like the Tories, have promised not to increase income tax, national insurance or VAT during the next parliament.

Every Thursday  Savings Champion founder Anna Bowes  gives an insight into the savings market and how to make the most of your money... 

With more than £253bn sitting in accounts earning nothing, savers are missing out on billions of pounds in interest. Although we are expecting to see a base rate cut in the next few weeks or months, as this keeps getting pushed back it's good to see that some of the best easy access accounts that you can open are still paying more than 5% AER (the Annual Equivalent Rate).

Some existing savers may have seen the rate on their accounts dropping however, as some providers have already started to cut rates in anticipation of a lower base rate this year. So, if you are one of these savers, it could pay to switch if you feel you are getting a rough deal.

That said, as easy access accounts are variable rate accounts, the rate of any could be cut at any time – so keep a close eye on what's happening.

Another thing to watch out for is bonus rates, which some of the top paying accounts include in the rate they are advertising. The most common type of bonus is one that will apply for the first 12 months of the account being opened, so you need to make sure you move your money at that stage, if the rate without the bonus is uncompetitive.

But sometimes the bonus applies until a specific date, which could be less than 12 months. For example, Chase Bank's Chase Saver is paying a headline rate of 5.10% but this includes a bonus of 1% which will be removed on 16 January 2025. Therefore, the rate that you will earn over 12 months (the AER) is lower than the headline rate. As of 16 June 2024, the AER on this account was nearer 4.68% - although as long as you make a note to review and move your cash when the bonus is removed, you can still earn 5.10% in the meantime.

Of course, as mentioned above, as with all variable rate accounts the interest rate you are earning can be cut at any time anyway, so you need to keep your eyes peeled.

It's important to read all the terms and conditions when opening a savings account so that you earn the interest you are expecting.

The chief executive of Lloyds Banking Group – the UK's biggest lender – has offered a bleak outlook for anyone hoping for a return of low interest rates.

Charlie Nunn told Sky News interest rate cuts from the Bank of England expected later this year would be "beneficial" – but warned homeowners not to expect a return to the ultra-low interest rates seen for most of the last 16 years.

He added: "Of course, the short-term impact of interest rates is going to impact, first of all, the government on the cost of government debt. That will be important. And secondly, it'll make the cost of borrowing for businesses short term more attractive… that'll be important.

"In terms of the impact on the broader consumer in the UK, it'll take longer to feed through. Around mortgages specifically, we've just come off a decade where mortgages have been in the 1.5-2.5% range.

"The expectations the market have is that interest rates probably won't get below 3.5%. 

"And that means mortgages, or the new normal for mortgages, will be in that 3.5-4.5% range, not 1.5-2.5%.

"So there is going to be a higher cost of borrowing in the economy, probably based on what we can see happening at the moment."

Read Ian King's full interview with Charlie Nunn...

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