10 Mistakes Tourists Make in Paris (And How to Avoid Them Like a Pro)
Paris is an incredible city, but it’s easy to make a few missteps if you don’t know what to expect. Some mistakes are small, while others can waste time or money, or be unintentionally rude. Here are the most common pitfalls – and how to avoid them like a pro.
Not Saying “Bonjour”
Politeness is a big deal in France, and it all starts with bonjour. Whether you’re walking into a shop, asking a question, or ordering something, always start with a simple bonjour – skipping it can come across as rude. No need to speak fluent French or have great pronunciation, just saying bonjour shows basic courtesy and will be well-received.
Forgetting Closure Days
Most museums and attractions in Paris are closed one day a week– usually Monday, but sometimes Tuesday. This makes Mondays a little extra tricky when planning your itinerary, because truly, a lot is closed. Always double-check hours and don’t just assume something will be open, and be thoughtful when making your Monday plans.
Underestimating the Size of the City
Paris looks compact on a map, but getting from one place to another takes longer than most people expect. The city is large, and even though it’s very walkable, attractions are more spread out than they first appear. Try mapping out the walking, driving, or metro time between each stop on your itinerary, then pad the travel time by 25-50% to account for stops or delays.
Only Visiting the Most Popular Sites
Paris’s iconic sites are famous for a reason, and I’m not suggesting you should skip the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, or Notre Dame. But there is so much more to Paris, and wandering the neighborhoods and discovering all the hidden gems and lesser-visited sites is so rewarding. These are some of my favorite off-the-beaten-path places to visit in Paris.
Not Understanding Restaurant Culture
Restaurant culture in France has many differences compared to the USA, and these differences often trip people up. For example, dinners in France start much later, it’s normal to have to flag down your server to pay your check, tipping isn’t required or expected, and many restaurants close between lunch and dinner. Get more tips for dining out in France like a local.
Assuming There Will Be AC in Summer
Air conditioning in France isn’t as common or powerful as it is in the US. Not every hotel has it (especially budget ones), and even when it’s listed, la climatisation can sometimes be mild at best. Museums, restaurants, and shops are similar. If AC matters to you, double-check your hotel amenities, and be prepared for warmer, muggier days just in case.
Running to the Arc de Triomphe
Climbing to the top of the Arc de Triomphe belongs on any Paris bucket list, but the Arc sits in the middle of a massive traffic circle where twelve streets meet and traffic never stops. There’s an underground tunnel that takes you safely to the base, yet tourists still try to run across the road. Don’t be that person—it’s risky for both you and the drivers.
Avoiding Public Transit
Some travelers skip the Paris Metro, thinking it’s confusing, but it’s actually fast, cheap, and easy to use. Apps like Google Maps or Citymapper tell you exactly which lines to take, and signs in the stations are clear. Don’t want to use the metro? The bus system in Paris is also excellent.
Underestimating the Louvre
The Louvre is huge: three wings, four floors each, and hundreds of galleries. You’ll want a plan before you go. Grab a paper map and/or follow one of the museum’s Visitor Trails, which guide you past major works with clear directions between rooms. Get all my tricks and tips for visiting the Louvre.
Checking France Off Your List
After Paris, it’s easy to think you’ve “done” France– but trust me, you haven’t even scratched the surface. Beyond the capital, you’ll find lavender fields in Provence, storybook villages in Alsace, grand châteaux in the Loire Valley, and rugged coasts in Normandy. Once you’ve visited Paris, book yourself another trip back to explore more of France’s incredible regions.
