Paris Safety Guide
Is Paris Safe?
Learn how locals scam tourists in Paris and how to avoid becoming a victim. Below you'll find Paris crime statistics — the probability of being robbed or attacked, information about corruption in Paris, safety tips and precautions.
Daytime Safety:
Nighttime Safety:
Comfort Rating
In terms of safety, you'll find Paris quite secure during the day. Still, take a moment to review our guide on common tourist traps. The security situation deteriorates after sunset. If you must go out, use reliable transportation and stick to main streets.
Robberies and Theft: moderate
Armed Robberies: moderate
Assaults: moderate
Corruption: low
Drug Issues: moderate
Beggars: heightened
Vandalism: heightened
Theft from Cars: moderate
Car Theft: moderate
Local Scam Alert: What to Watch For
Péage Scam (High Risk) - Tourists encounter individuals at toll booths (péages) who claim they are lost and ask for directions while subtly distracting you to steal your belongings. Stay vigilant by keeping your vehicle doors locked, windows up, and avoid engaging with anyone at toll booths.
Taxi Overcharge (Medium Risk) - Unofficial taxi drivers often approach tourists, particularly at train stations like Gare du Nord, claiming they can take you to your destination for a flat fee that is significantly over the meter rate. Always opt for official taxi queues and ensure the driver uses the meter before starting your ride.
The Lovely Bracelet Trick (Medium Risk) - Someone may approach you near tourist hotspots like Sacré-Cœur, offering to make a bracelet from yarn, tying it around your wrist, and then demanding payment. Politely decline interactions with strangers offering unsolicited services, and maintain awareness of your surroundings.
Restaurant Price Trick (Medium Risk) - Some restaurants may include hidden fees or service charges on the bill, disproportionately raising costs for tourists. Always ask for clarity on menu prices and service charges beforehand, and compare prices with nearby establishments to gauge fairness.
Fake Petition Scam (Medium Risk) - At busy tourist locations such as the Eiffel Tower, individuals approach with a clipboard claiming to collect signatures for charitable causes, distracting you while an accomplice pickpockets your belongings. Simply ignore approaches and walk away while keeping your valuables secure.
Currency Exchange Fraud (Low Risk) - Some currency exchange kiosks near tourist areas may offer unusually high rates, but will charge exorbitant fees or give counterfeit notes. Use official banks or exchange services, and check for current exchange rates before exchanging money in high-tourist areas.
Street Performer Extortion (Low Risk) - After entertaining in places like Place du Tertre, performers may demand payment aggressively, claiming a 'donation' is required. Enjoy the performance but maintain a safe distance from aggressive performers and feel free to walk away if pressured.
Taxi Overcharge (Medium Risk) - Unofficial taxi drivers often approach tourists, particularly at train stations like Gare du Nord, claiming they can take you to your destination for a flat fee that is significantly over the meter rate. Always opt for official taxi queues and ensure the driver uses the meter before starting your ride.
The Lovely Bracelet Trick (Medium Risk) - Someone may approach you near tourist hotspots like Sacré-Cœur, offering to make a bracelet from yarn, tying it around your wrist, and then demanding payment. Politely decline interactions with strangers offering unsolicited services, and maintain awareness of your surroundings.
Restaurant Price Trick (Medium Risk) - Some restaurants may include hidden fees or service charges on the bill, disproportionately raising costs for tourists. Always ask for clarity on menu prices and service charges beforehand, and compare prices with nearby establishments to gauge fairness.
Fake Petition Scam (Medium Risk) - At busy tourist locations such as the Eiffel Tower, individuals approach with a clipboard claiming to collect signatures for charitable causes, distracting you while an accomplice pickpockets your belongings. Simply ignore approaches and walk away while keeping your valuables secure.
Currency Exchange Fraud (Low Risk) - Some currency exchange kiosks near tourist areas may offer unusually high rates, but will charge exorbitant fees or give counterfeit notes. Use official banks or exchange services, and check for current exchange rates before exchanging money in high-tourist areas.
Street Performer Extortion (Low Risk) - After entertaining in places like Place du Tertre, performers may demand payment aggressively, claiming a 'donation' is required. Enjoy the performance but maintain a safe distance from aggressive performers and feel free to walk away if pressured.
Scam Types and General Tips
Complete Guide to Scam Types
Tourist Reviews
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According to this law, authorities at the local and federal levels are allowed to restrict and prohibit the movement of motorcycles and mopeds, and it seems that this might extend to all two-wheeled vehicles.
Motorcyclists are stunned, as there are no similar rules or restrictions in any country, neither in Europe nor globally. That's the latest news.
Thank you all! »
However, our evening was overshadowed by an unsettling incident on the metro. A guy snatched a sleeping passenger's phone right as he was getting off the train 😔. It was quite distressing and left us feeling uneasy. So while Paris is undeniably beautiful at night, we decided to avoid walking the streets after 10 and definitely refrain from taking the metro late at night 😔. »