Is Paris Safe? Discover the Unexpected Truth Behind Its Reputation

Let's talk about Paris. You know, that place with the iconic tower, fancy museums, and pastries that make your taste buds do a happy dance? Yeah, that one. Now, if you ask your parents about safety in Paris, they might warn you about pickpockets faster than you can say "croissant." Hop onto TripAdvisor or Reddit, and you'll find a mixed bag of opinions. Some swear it's as safe as sipping café au lait in your own kitchen, while others spin tales of street scams that would make a Hollywood screenwriter jealous. So, what's the real deal? Is Paris a safe haven for travelers or a pickpocket's playground?

My wife Sarah and I recently spent a week in the City of Light, determined to uncover the truth about its safety. As a seasoned travel writer and Cornell University School of Hotel Administration graduate, I've seen my fair share of cities worldwide. But Paris? It's got a reputation that precedes it, for better or worse.

In this article, I'm going to share two things: 1) how we determined if Paris felt safe for us, and 2) our honest travel experience during our Parisian adventure. Buckle up (or should I say, fasten your beret?), because we're about to take a deep dive into the safety of one of the world's most visited cities.

3 Safety Factors to Consider

Before we packed our bags and booked our flights, we did some serious homework. Here's our three-step process for gauging Paris's safety:

01- State Department Travel Advisory

First stop on our safety check tour? The U.S. Department of State website. If you don't know this already, they post travel advisory ratings for all countries, ranging from 1 (Exercise normal precautions) to 4 (Do not travel).

As of March 24, 2024, France is sitting at a Level 2 advisory, which means "Exercise Increased Caution." The main reasons? Terrorism and civil unrest. Now, before you start canceling your croissant orders, remember that many popular tourist destinations carry this same rating.

What caught our attention was that France had recently raised its national security alert system, Vigipirate, to the highest level of "urgence attentat" (attack emergency) following a terrorist attack in Moscow. This doesn't mean you should panic, but it's definitely something to be aware of.

State Department Check: PASS (with a side of extra vigilance)

02- Latest News

Next, we dove into the latest news about Paris. It's always important to understand what's happening financially, socially, and politically in a city you're planning to visit.

One of the big stories we found was about the upcoming 2024 Summer Olympics. Paris is ramping up security measures, planning to deploy 45,000 security personnel for the event. While we weren't planning to visit during the Olympics, this focus on security felt reassuring.

We also came across a news story about a security incident at the Palace of Versailles on July 4, 2024. Armed police had evacuated the palace, which initially sounded alarming. However, it turned out to be a dispute between street vendors. This incident highlighted the responsiveness of local authorities to potential threats.

Interestingly, we found no recent news of any serious crimes targeting tourists in Paris. That's not to say they don't happen, but it wasn't making headlines.

Current News Check: PASS

03- Community Forums

Finally, we turned to the wisdom of the crowds. TripAdvisor forums and Reddit communities can be goldmines of recent traveler experiences.

We found countless posts from travelers sharing their experiences in Paris. The general consensus? Paris is as safe as any major city, as long as you exercise common sense precautions.

One traveler on TripAdvisor wrote, "I felt very safe walking around Paris, even at night. Just use common sense like in any big city." Another solo female traveler shared on her blog, "As a solo female traveler, I found Paris to be welcoming and safe. Trust your instincts and stay alert."

We didn't come across any horror stories or reports of violent crimes against tourists. Most safety concerns revolved around petty theft and pickpocketing, which, let's be honest, are risks in any crowded tourist area worldwide.

Community Forum Check: PASS

First Hand Experience in Paris

Alright, now for the juicy part. We'd done our research and felt confident about visiting Paris. But did our experience match up with what we'd read? Let's break it down by neighborhood.

Saint-Germain-des-Prés (6th arrondissement)

Saint-Germain-des-Prés is like that cool, artsy friend who's always reading Sartre in a café. It's chic, it's cultured, and it's quintessentially Parisian.

We spent our first day wandering the charming streets, popping into quaint bookshops and art galleries. The area felt incredibly safe, with a mix of locals and tourists creating a lively but not overwhelming atmosphere.

One evening, we treated ourselves to dinner at the famous Café de Flore. As we sat at our outdoor table, sipping wine and people-watching, we felt completely at ease. The only danger here was to our waistlines from all the delicious food!

A highlight was visiting the Église de Saint-Germain-des-Prés, the oldest church in Paris. We noticed security personnel at the entrance, which seemed to be standard for major attractions throughout the city.

Is Saint-Germain-des-Prés Safe? Absolutely YES!

Le Marais (3rd and 4th arrondissements)

Le Marais is like the hip, trendy cousin of Saint-Germain-des-Prés. It's got a vibrant LGBTQ+ scene, fantastic shopping, and some of the best falafel you'll ever taste.

We spent a full day exploring this area, and it was one of our favorites. The narrow, winding streets were bustling with activity, but we never felt unsafe. We did keep a close eye on our belongings in the more crowded areas, as pickpocketing can be an issue here.

We couldn't resist trying the famous falafel at L'As du Fallafel. The line was long, but well-organized, and we didn't feel any security concerns while waiting. The falafel was worth every minute of that wait, by the way!

In the evening, we enjoyed a drink at a rooftop bar with a view of the city. The atmosphere was relaxed and friendly, with a diverse mix of locals and tourists.

Is Le Marais Safe? YES, just keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas.

Latin Quarter (5th arrondissement)

The Latin Quarter feels like you've stepped onto a movie set of the perfect Parisian neighborhood. It's all cobblestone streets, charming cafes, and bookshops that make you want to curl up and read for hours.

We spent a morning exploring the area around the Sorbonne University. The student vibe was palpable, with young people hurrying to classes or lounging in cafes. We felt perfectly safe walking around, even with our cameras out to capture the picturesque streets.

One of our favorite experiences was browsing the famous Shakespeare and Company bookstore. It was crowded inside, so we made sure to keep our valuables close, but we didn't encounter any issues.

In the evening, we enjoyed a jazz performance at Caveau de la Huchette. The area was lively at night, with plenty of people around. We did notice a visible police presence, which added to our sense of security.

Is the Latin Quarter Safe? YES, but stay alert in busy nightlife spots.

Montmartre (18th arrondissement)

Ah, Montmartre. It's the Paris of your imagination – artists, windmills, and sweeping views of the city. It's also known for being a bit tricky in terms of safety, so we were curious to see for ourselves.

We visited Sacré-Cœur early in the morning to avoid the crowds. The climb up was steep but worth it for the stunning views. We did notice some people trying to sell bracelets or run scams near the church, but a firm "Non, merci" was enough to deter them.

Later, we wandered through the artist's square, Place du Tertre. It was busy and touristy, but we didn't feel unsafe. We kept our valuables secure and stayed aware of our surroundings.

In the evening, we had dinner at a small bistro off the main tourist track. The streets were quieter, but still felt safe with locals going about their evening routines.

Is Montmartre Safe? YES, but be aware of common scams and avoid isolated areas at night.

Champs-Élysées (8th arrondissement)

The Champs-Élysées is like the Kardashian of Parisian streets – famous, flashy, and always crowded. We knew it was a hotspot for pickpockets, so we were extra cautious here.

We visited during the day, starting with a climb up the Arc de Triomphe. The security checks at the entrance were thorough, which was reassuring. The views from the top were spectacular, and we felt completely safe up there.

Walking down the Champs-Élysées itself was an experience. It was packed with tourists and shoppers. We kept our backpack in front of us and avoided keeping anything valuable in our pockets. Despite the crowds, we didn't encounter any issues.

We finished our visit with a late lunch at a café. The waiter warned us to keep our phones off the table, a reminder that petty theft can be an issue here.

Is the Champs-Élysées Safe? YES, but watch out for pickpockets in the crowds.

Eiffel Tower area (7th arrondissement)

No trip to Paris is complete without a visit to the Iron Lady herself. The area around the Eiffel Tower was unsurprisingly busy, but also felt secure due to the visible security presence.

We had pre-booked our tickets to go up the tower, which I'd highly recommend to avoid long queues. The security checks to enter were thorough, similar to airport security. Once up on the tower, we felt completely safe (aside from my mild fear of heights!).

In the evening, we had a picnic in the Champ de Mars to watch the tower's light show. The atmosphere was festive and relaxed, with many other groups doing the same. We kept our belongings close, but didn't feel any particular security concerns.

Is the Eiffel Tower area Safe? YES, but be prepared for crowds and stay vigilant.

Paris by Foot and Uber

‍

Now, let's talk about getting around. We walked... a lot. Like, "I think I need new shoes" a lot. For the most part, we felt very safe walking around Paris, even in the evenings.

The city is well-lit, and there were usually plenty of people around, especially in the more central areas. We did have one slightly unnerving experience walking back to our hotel late one night. We took a wrong turn and ended up on a quiet, poorly lit street. We quickly retraced our steps to the main road, and all was well. Lesson learned: stick to well-lit, busier streets at night.

As for Uber, we used it several times and had only positive experiences. The drivers were professional, and the cars were clean and well-maintained. We particularly appreciated Uber for late-night trips or when we were tired from a long day of sightseeing.

Here's when we chose Uber over walking:

• To and from the airport (distance + luggage = Uber time)
• Late at night after dinner in Montmartre (it was a long way back to our hotel)
• When going to Versailles (it's outside the city center)
• One rainy afternoon when we just couldn't face walking anymore!

Is Paris safe for walking and Uber? YES, with normal precautions.

Recommended Itinerary

Based on our experiences, here's a 3-day itinerary that balances seeing the sights with staying safe:

Day 1:

• Morning: Start with a visit to the Eiffel Tower. Book your tickets in advance to avoid long queues.
• Afternoon: Explore the charming streets of Saint-Germain-des-Prés. Don't miss Café de Flore for a classic Parisian café experience.
• Evening: Dinner in Le Marais, followed by a drink at a rooftop bar for night views of the city.

Safety tip: Keep valuables secure when visiting busy tourist attractions like the Eiffel Tower.

Day 2:

• Morning: Visit the Louvre (book tickets in advance). The security here is tight, so you can relax and enjoy the art.
• Afternoon: Wander through the Latin Quarter. Stop by Shakespeare and Company bookstore.
• Evening: Enjoy a Seine river cruise for beautiful night views of the city.

Safety tip: Be cautious with belongings in crowded areas like the Louvre entrance.

Day 3:

• Morning: Start early with a visit to Sacré-Cœur in Montmartre to beat the crowds.
• Afternoon: Shop and people-watch on the Champs-Élysées. Climb the Arc de Triomphe for great city views.
• Evening: Picnic in Champ de Mars to watch the Eiffel Tower light show.

Safety tip: In Montmartre, be aware of common scams like the "friendship bracelet" trick.

Final Thoughts

So, is Paris safe? The short answer is yes, but with the usual caveats that come with any major city.

Here are our top safety tips for Paris:

• Stay alert in crowded tourist areas and on public transportation
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Use a money belt or hidden pouch for important documents and cash
• Be cautious of strangers approaching with unusual requests or "gifts"
• Stick to well-lit, populated areas at night
• Learn basic French phrases – locals appreciate the effort and it can help in tricky situations
• Keep a copy of your passport separate from the original
• Stay informed about current events and potential demonstrations

We felt safe during our week in Paris, and the moments of magic – like seeing the Eiffel Tower sparkle at night or biting into a perfect croissant – far outweighed any minor concerns.

Paris, like any big city, requires you to stay alert and use common sense. But don't let fear hold you back from experiencing all that this beautiful city has to offer. From world-class museums to charming cafes, from historic monuments to hidden courtyards, Paris is a city that deserves to be explored.

So go ahead, book that ticket. Just remember to keep one hand on your camera and the other on your wallet, and you'll be set for an unforgettable Parisian adventure. À votre santé!

About Us

Hey there! We're West and Sarah, a recently married couple from sunny Florida. By day, we're remote workers juggling Zoom calls and deadlines. By night (and weekends, and vacation days), we're avid travelers on a mission to explore the world, one city at a time.

I'm West Parker, a Cornell University School of Hotel Administration graduate who's spent two decades as the secret weapon of the jet-set elite, crafting bespoke adventures that redefine luxury travel. Now, as a resident writer for Town & Tourist, this 45-year-old "Architect of Extraordinary Journeys" combines razor-sharp insights with unparalleled industry connections to deliver experiences that even the most discerning globetrotters can't help but rave about.

Sarah, my better half and partner in crime, brings her own expertise to our travels. With a background in cultural anthropology and a passion for local cuisines, she adds depth to our explorations and always knows where to find the best hidden gem restaurants.

Together, we've trekked through 32 countries across 6 continents, from the bustling streets of Phnom Penh to the wilds of Zimbabwe. We believe that smart, safe travel opens up a world of possibilities, and we're here to help you navigate it.

Our articles are designed to give you the inside scoop on destinations worldwide, with a focus on safety, cultural insights, and of course, food (because let's face it, that's half the reason we travel, right?). We're all about finding those win-win situations where you can experience the best a city has to offer while staying safe and savvy.

So whether you're a seasoned globetrotter or a first-time international traveler, we hope our experiences and insights help you travel better, safer, and with a fuller stomach. After all, life's too short for bad vacations and mediocre meals!

Safety Statistics and Facts

To give you a more comprehensive picture of safety in Paris, let's look at some numbers:

1. According to the Economist's Safe Cities Index 2021, Paris ranks 23rd out of 60 global cities in overall safety.
2. The crime rate in Paris is comparable to that of London, with a focus on crimes against tourists due to high visitor numbers.
3. Violent crime rates in Paris have been declining in recent years. There was a reported decrease in violent unarmed thefts (-11.1%) and deliberate damage (-3.16%) compared to 2021-2022.
4. The UK government considers the risk of natural disasters in Paris to be low.
5. Paris has a visible police presence in tourist areas, which acts as a deterrent for more serious crimes.
6. According to Statista, in 2021, there were approximately 592 cases of theft and aggression against tourists reported in Paris.
7. The French government plans to deploy 45,000 security personnel for the 2024 Summer Olympics, highlighting their commitment to safety during major events.
8. The Paris Police Prefecture website reported over 7,000 pickpocketing incidents in 2020, a significant decrease from previous years, likely due to reduced tourism during the pandemic.
9. According to Numbeo, as of 2024, Paris has a crime index of 52.46 and a safety index of 47.54, placing it in the "moderate" range for both crime and safety.
10. The same source reports that 60.87% of survey respondents feel safe walking alone during the day in Paris, while this drops to 39.86% at night.

These statistics paint a picture of a city that, while not without its challenges, is actively working to maintain and improve safety for both residents and visitors.

Cultural Awareness for Safety

Understanding local customs and etiquette can go a long way in helping you stay safe and avoid unwanted attention. Here are some cultural tips for Paris:

1. Learn basic French phrases: Parisians appreciate when visitors make an effort to speak their language. A simple "Bonjour" (hello) or "Merci" (thank you) can go a long way.
2. Dress modestly: While Paris is a fashion capital, overtly touristy or flashy clothing can make you a target for pickpockets. Aim for a smart-casual look to blend in.
3. Be aware of strikes and demonstrations: France has a strong tradition of public demonstrations. While most are peaceful, it's best to avoid large gatherings if possible.
4. Respect local customs in religious sites: When visiting churches or other religious sites, dress modestly and speak quietly.
5. Understand tipping culture: Tipping is not mandatory in Paris as service is usually included in the bill. However, leaving a small tip for good service is appreciated.
6. Be cautious with public displays of affection: While Paris is known as the city of love, overly amorous behavior in public may draw unwanted attention.
7. Practice dining etiquette: In restaurants, it's polite to keep your hands visible on the table and to use utensils for most foods.
8. Respect personal space: Parisians generally maintain a bit more personal space than Americans might be used to. Avoid loud conversations in public spaces.

Safety for Different Types of Travelers

Paris welcomes millions of diverse visitors each year. Here are some specific safety tips for different types of travelers:

1. Solo travelers: Stay vigilant, trust your instincts, and consider joining group tours for popular attractions.
2. Women travelers: Be cautious of unwanted attention, especially at night. Consider using women-only rideshare options when available.
3. LGBTQ+ visitors: Paris is generally LGBTQ+ friendly, especially in areas like Le Marais. However, exercise discretion in less touristy areas.
4. Families: Keep children close in crowded areas. Establish meeting points in case of separation.
5. Travelers with disabilities: Many attractions are accessible, but it's best to plan ahead, especially for public transport accessibility.
6. Senior travelers: Be cautious of uneven pavements in historic areas. Take advantage of senior discounts at many attractions.
7. Students: Many museums offer student discounts. Be wary of deals that seem too good to be true, especially in touristy areas.

Seasonal Safety Considerations

Paris's safety landscape can vary depending on the time of year:

1. Summer (June to August): This is peak tourist season. Be extra vigilant about pickpocketing in crowded areas and near major attractions.
2. Fall (September to November): Generally pleasant, but be prepared for occasional strikes or demonstrations, which are more common during this period.
3. Winter (December to February): Watch out for slippery pavements during cold snaps. The Christmas and New Year period can see an increase in petty theft due to crowded shopping areas.
4. Spring (March to May): As tourism picks up, so does the risk of tourist-targeted scams. Be particularly cautious around popular spring events.

Emergency Information

In case of any issues, it's crucial to know who to contact:

Emergency Numbers:

• General emergency: 112
• Police: 17
• Fire brigade: 18
• Ambulance: 15

Reputable Hospitals:

• Hôpital Hôtel-Dieu: 1 Parvis Notre-Dame - Pl. Jean-Paul II, 75004 Paris
• American Hospital of Paris: 63 Bd Victor Hugo, 92200 Neuilly-sur-Seine

Embassy Contacts:

• U.S. Embassy: 2 Avenue Gabriel, 75008 Paris. Phone: +33 1 43 12 22 22
• UK Embassy: 35 Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré, 75008 Paris. Phone: +33 1 44 51 31 00
• Canadian Embassy: 130 Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré, 75008 Paris. Phone: +33 1 44 43 29 00

A Personal Safety Anecdote

During our visit, we had a small incident that actually increased our confidence in Paris's safety measures. We were at the Louvre, completely engrossed in trying to get a glimpse of the Mona Lisa over the crowd, when Sarah suddenly realized her phone was missing from her coat pocket.

Panic set in immediately, but we quickly found a security guard who directed us to the lost and found office. To our amazement, someone had already turned in the phone! The staff explained that this happens quite often – many honest visitors and Parisians alike make an effort to turn in lost items.

This experience reminded us that while it's important to be cautious, it's equally important to remember that most people, even in a big city like Paris, are inherently good and helpful.

Final Thoughts Revisited

After a week in Paris, we can confidently say that the city feels safe for travelers who exercise reasonable caution. Like any major metropolitan area, Paris has its share of petty crime, but violent crime against tourists is rare.

The key to a safe and enjoyable trip to Paris lies in being prepared, staying aware of your surroundings, and not letting fear prevent you from experiencing all the magic this city has to offer. From the grandeur of the Eiffel Tower to the simple pleasure of a fresh baguette from a local boulangerie, Paris is a city that rewards those who explore it with open eyes and open hearts.

Remember, the greatest danger in Paris might just be falling so in love with the city that you never want to leave! So go ahead, book that trip, practice your "Bonjour," and get ready for an unforgettable Parisian adventure. Just don't blame us if you come back with a beret and a sudden appreciation for existentialist philosophy!

Bon voyage et restez en sécurité! (Have a good trip and stay safe!)