paris biggest tourist scams

11 Common Tourist Scams In Paris (And How To Avoid Them)

By: Author Christine Rogador

Posted on Published: April 12, 2023  - Last updated: June 26, 2023

Do you want to know the most common tourist scams in Paris and how to avoid them?

Famous for its historical sites, cultural offerings , and delectable cuisine , Paris ranks among the world’s top tourist hotspots. However, just like in any other popular tourist spot, there are dishonest people looking to take advantage of travelers.

Today,  we will discuss the most popular scams in Paris that visitors may face and offer advice on how to prevent them. Maintaining vigilance and knowledge will help make your time in Paris safe and rewarding.

Things you'll find in this article

11 Common Scams In Paris (And How To Avoid Them)

1. pickpocketing, 2. gold (or silver) ring, 3. the friendship bracelet, 4. the fake petition, 5. the rose, 6. the broken camera, 7. ball (or shell) and cup, 8. the street vendor, 9. the paris metro scam, 10. fake taxi, 11. restaurants overcharging tourists, how to avoid paris scams, places in paris where there are tourist scams and con artists., how to not look like a tourist in paris, how to dress like a local in paris, useful french phrases to avoid con artists and stay safe in paris.

Common Scams In Paris

In order to have a safe and pleasurable trip to Paris, it is vital for travelers to be aware of several classic tourist scams. Here are some common scams that target tourists in Paris:

Pickpocketing is rampant in crowded places in Paris, such as the subway, tourist hotspots, and busy streets. Pickpockets typically operate in groups and employ diversionary tactics like deliberately colliding with unsuspecting tourists, feigning a need for directions or a signature, or acting overly nice.

Tourists who seem oblivious or who have expensive equipment like cameras, phones, or wallets in their back pockets are common prey.

To avoid being a target, don’t use your phone while in public transport or walking around Paris. Keep your valuables as close to your body as possible like in the inner pocket of a jacket, or invest in an anti-theft bag.

The gold ring scam one of those common tourist scams in Paris that is the most annoying, yet it is very prevalent in the French capital.

It is most likely to occur while you are strolling along the Seine, in the area surrounding the Louvre , or close to the Eiffel Tower . A stranger will walk up to you, holding a gold ring. They will claim to have stumbled upon it and ask if it belongs to you.

Their expectation is that your response will be unfavorable, and in that moment, they will feign inspecting the ring before exclaiming its exceptional value. Then, they will offer you the ring at a justifiable cost. (of course, the ring is most likely fake gold.)

Ignore them and keep moving forward if you want to avoid being conned into paying. Or you might just say “No” in a forceful voice and keep walking.

The friendship bracelet is probably one of those Paris scams that is the most aggravating. Sacré-Coeur is a popular meeting spot for many of those who perpetrate this con. Walking up the hill to the church, you can’t help but notice them.

What they do is approach you while being friendly and begin tying knots to your wrists. In exchange for money, they will hastily braid a “friendship bracelet” onto your wrist. While you’re preoccupied with the bracelet, a second crook can sneak up behind you and steal your belongings.

One way to avoid this is to match their level of aggression if they persist in bothering you. Cross your arms or put your hands in your pockets and ignore them while you continue walking.

Easily one of the most popular scams in Paris, tourists will most likely encounter this con in the area surrounding Notre Dame and the Ile de la Cité. There are also cases of it around the Louvre and the Sacre Coeur .

Typically, a woman or a kid may approach you to have you sign a petition. The document will look legitimate, having been signed by many people for a worthy cause, but will actually be a forgery.

After you’ve signed the paper, the con artist will ask for a large donation, of which zero percent will actually make it to the good cause. Other instances will have a second or third person stealing your belongings while you are distracted by the “petition.”

Saying “no” and refusing to sign any petitions as you briskly walk away is the best approach to avoid falling for this con. After a refusal, the petitioners typically moved on to approach other targets.

These con artists will catch you off guard while you are taking a leisurely stroll down the Seine or while you are exploring the Eiffel Tower. Someone will approach you and make an attempt to “gift” you a rose by handing it to you.

After you have accepted the rosw, he will press you for payment in a persistent manner. Alternately, the con artist will approach a couple, hand the female a rose, then immediately ask that the male partner pay for it.

As soon as you spot one of those men walking towards you, extending their arm with a delicate rose in hand,  quickly alter your path. Then, fold your arms or put them in your pickets, and avert your gaze.

Another of the common tourist scams in Paris to watch out for happens while you are busy sightseeing. Someone requests that you take a picture of them with their pals. You agree, but it turns out the camera is broken.

These people will give you a camera to use and then it will “break ” as you return it after a few photos. The man and his pals swarm you, and they either demand money from you or, if you’re not paying attention, they’ll steal it.

Either refuse to take a photo of the person (this could offend someone who isn’t trying to scam you. So say something like you have poor vision or shaky hands) or take the photo but return the camera to a flat surface rather than immediately to the person.

What appears to be a straightforward game is actually a trap. This is one of those con tricks in Paris that may seem simple to some, yet it still catches many.

Don’t get duped into betting money on where a ball is hidden by a con artist who is moving cups around in front of a crowd and trying to get you to guess where the ball is.

The con artist will let you win for the first few turns so that you’ll gamble more money and eventually get tricked out of a fortune.

They might fool the unwary into thinking they’re dealing with a lone wolf, but in reality they’re part of a larger group of con artists trying to get their mark to put a bet. This can be used as a diversion while your pockets are being picked.

If you want to bring back good memories of your stay in Paris, souvenir shopping is a must. Just be wary of the vendors you give your money. It’s common knowledge that many of the vendors near the major sites use extremely forceful methods of persuasion.

They could appear polite at first, even offering to allow you to try out their products. They won’t ask for money unless you actually use something or show any level of interest in it.

Avoid them by having zero interaction with them. Just walk right past them and get your Paris souvenirs from a store.

This fraudulent scheme in Paris is typical of Paris’s major train terminals, including Gare du Nord.

Here’s how it goes down: after a long flight to Paris, you hop on the RER B and arrive in the heart of the city. And now what? So, you’re probably on your way to the subway station to get some passes.

Someone in regular clothes (an “unofficial” metro helper) will come up to you when you reach the ticket machine and offer to “help” you buy tickets. Scammers will offer to assist you buy a “carnet” (10 metro tickets), but all they’ll do is buy a single fare for a child and keep the rest of your money.

The best approach for tourists to avoid falling victim to the “Paris metro scam” is to politely ignore any offers of assistance.

Get your metro tickets only from official machines (most may be operated in English) or a kiosk/ticket booth.

As taxis grow more difficult to come by, here’s one handed to you, silver platter and all. The driver offers to take you wherever you choose for a nominal fee. This is obviously a scam and against the law.

The final price will be higher than the standard cab rate because of the surcharge. Never get into a taxi unless the taximeter is working and the car clearly displays “Paris taxi” to protect yourself from this scam.

Some taxi drivers will try to take advantage of your unfamiliarity with the area. They will purposefully choose more time-consuming routes or those with a higher likelihood of traffic delays in order to increase the final price.

You should negotiate a fee with the driver in advance and give him the money before he starts the car to avoid this situation.

There are restaurants and cafes in Paris rife with scams . The area around the Eiffel Tower and the Champs-Elysées, being popular tourist destinations, are hotspots for such  activities.

One of those fraudulent schemes in Paris happens in restaurants in touristy areas.. It could be a menu sans prices, only to be followed by a jaw-dropping bill.

Alternatively, a “tourist menu” could be presented, with prices that are sky-high. And if that’s not enough, you might find yourself staring at an invoice that includes items you never ordered nor were informed of. Beware!

Unless you’ve done your homework, you shouldn’t eat at any restaurant or cafe that is directly adjacent to a popular tourist attraction. You will most likely be overcharged, and the quality of the food will be quite low.

Before visiting Paris, spend some time learning about some of the city’s best hidden restaurants.

Tourist scams in Paris are unfortunately common, but there are ways to lessen your chances of being a victim.

• Always be aware of your surroundings.

But especially in busy places like subways and tourist hotspots. Be wary of anyone who comes near you and make sure to keep your valuables close to hand.

• Be cautious with your possessions.

Keep your money, phone, and other valuables safe by carrying them in a bag or backpack with a zipper or button closure. Don’t put them in your back pocket where pickpockets can readily get to them.

• Don’t get distracted.

You should be aware of anyone who tries to divert your attention, especially if they are a stranger. Be wary of anyone who tries to strike up a discussion with you; scammers frequently operate in groups.

• Take the bus or an official Paris taxi.

If you need to get around town, only take official taxis or the bus. Stay away from unofficial taxis, as they are frequently employed by con artists.

• Read up on attractions you plan to visit.

Be sure a place or service is reputable before spending money on it as a tourist. Someone may tell you that a prominent landmark is closed, but you should verify this before proceeding.

• Put your foot down and say “no.”

Say “no” firmly and leave if someone is trying to sell you something you don’t want or offering you a service you don’t need. Don’t talk to them or follow where they say to go.

• Follow your instinct.

Trust your gut feelings and avoid engaging with anything that seems suspicious or too good to be true. Do what makes you happy, and don’t give in to pressure from others.

While tourist scams and con artists can occur everywhere in Paris, the following areas are more frequently reported:

• The Eiffel Tower

Since the Eiffel Tower is one of the most prominent tourist attractions in Paris, it is also a favorite target for scammers. Those who approach you with petitions, ask you to sign or donate money to a cause, or try to sell you souvenirs or trinkets should be avoided.

• Basilica of Sacré-Coeur

This renowned Parisian landmark is located in the Montmartre area and is a popular tourist destination. Scammers are known to operate in the area, notably near the basilica’s stairwell. Those who try to tie a “friendship bracelet” on your wrist should be avoided since they frequently demand payment.

• Champs-Élysées

This famous shopping street is another major tourist site, and as a result, it is also a target for scammers. Those who approach you with petitions or surveys should be avoided since they may be attempting to distract you while someone else pickpockets you.

The Louvre is one of the world’s most famous museums, attracting millions of tourists each year. Be aware of anyone approaching you inside or outside the museum, offering you trinkets or tickets to skip the wait. Official tickets are only available through the museum’s website or at the ticket office.

• Gare du Nord

This busy train station serves as a doorway to Paris for many passengers, but it is also a haven for scammers. Those that offer to assist you with your luggage should be avoided since they may demand payment for their services.

Remember that tourist scams can occur everywhere, so be alert of your surroundings and take caution when dealing with strangers. If anything appears to be too good to be true, or if you are uneasy, heed your instincts and walk away.

Since so many visitors flock to Paris, it might be tricky to avoid standing out as such. But here are some ways to blend in and not be easily identified as a tourist in Paris:

• Dress like a local.

Avoid dressing too casually or too flashily, as Parisians favor a stylish, modest style. Choose timeless staples like a trench coat, scarf, or a pair of sneakers in a neutral color like black, gray, or navy.

• Learn and speak French.

Many Parisians do speak English, but making an effort to communicate in French is always appreciated. It’s helpful to know some basic French words like “ bonjour ,” “ merci ,” and “ au revoir ,” which can be used in a variety of situations.

• Be as low key as you can.

Do not draw attention to yourself as a tourist by obviously showing off your map or guidebook at all times. Instead of going without a plan, use a smartphone or digital map to find your way there.

• Act like a local.

Keep your pace and avoid stopping frequently for photos; Parisians want to stroll quickly and purposefully. It is also not normal practice in Paris to eat or drink while walking about.

• See attractions that aren’t as well-known.

It can be tempting to only see the most well-known sights, but you should also check out the lesser-known spots. By doing so, you can avoid the masses and have a more genuine encounter with the city.

• Take the bus, the train, the subway.

Use the subway or buses instead of cabs and tour buses to get around. Doing so will help you fit in with the people in Paris.

If you want to avoid standing out as an obvious tourist in Paris, try dressing like a local. You can look like a Parisian with these helpful hints:

• Keep to tried-and-true styles and timeless pieces.

Classic and timeless fashions are more popular in Paris than contemporary and flamboyant ones. Black, white, and navy blue are three of the most popular colors in clothing, and timeless staples like trench coats, blazers, and leather jackets are always in style.

Parisians favor investing in high-quality pieces that will last for years over stocking up on loads of inexpensive stuff. Try to find items that are not just well-made but also flexible in terms of how they can be styled.

• Get dressed up for the event.

It’s common for Parisians to change their attire depending on the activity, be it formal attire for a night out or comfortable clothes for a day of sightseeing. It’s a good idea to coordinate your outfit with the event or activity you’ll be participating in.

• Stick to the basics.

Keep your clothes straightforward and unfussy to channel the vibe of the City of Light. Stay away from logos and images that are too flamboyant in favor of simple designs with clear lines

• Focus on the details.

Parisians put a lot of thought into their appearances, from the cut of their clothes to the finishing touches they add. Use well-fitting garments and experiment with different scarves and jewelry to create a unique look.

Just make sure you’re dressing in a way that makes you feel good about yourself. Dressing like a local is great fun, but don’t go out of your way to blend in. Just be yourself and have a wonderful time in Paris!

The following is a list of helpful French terms that will assist you in avoiding con artists and remaining safe while in Paris:

“Je suis désolé(e), je ne suis pas intéressé(e)” – I’m sorry, I’m not interested

You can use this expression if someone is attempting to sell you something or provide you with a service that you do not want or require.

“Non, merci” – No, thank you

Similar to the above phrase, this can be used to politely decline an offer or service.

“Je suis perdu(e), pouvez-vous m’aider?” – I’m lost, can you help me?

If you’re lost, you can use this phrase to get help from a trusted source like a police officer or store clerk.

“Je ne parle pas français très bien” – I don’t speak French very well

If you want to avoid a long chat with someone who is trying to engage you in conversation, use this phrase.

“Je dois vérifier avec ma banque” – I need to check with my bank

Use this to avoid giving out sensitive information, such as your credit card number or ATM PIN, if someone approaches you and asks for it.

“Appelez la police” – Call the police

If you feel unsafe or are being harassed by someone, use this phrase to request that the police be called.

Remember that while these phrases can help you avoid scammers and be secure in Paris, you should always follow your intuition and use common sense when dealing with strangers.

Hi, I’m Christine – a full-time traveler and career woman. Although I’m from the Philippines, my location independent career took me to over 40 countries and lived in 4 continents in the last 10 years, including France. A self-proclaimed Francophile, I love everything France.

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Scams in Paris: 13 Top Tips to Avoid Common Cons

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Scams in Paris are all over social media. There is no day without a report of someone who got pickpocketed, bought a false metro ticket, or lost his travel budget in a crooked betting game.

It is scary and if you are wondering if Paris is really a safe destination to travel to, you are not alone. And truth be told, I genuinely understand it. There’s nothing worse than feeling vulnerable, especially when you are already outside your comfort zone.

That’s why I created this guide for you. Paris is overall not a dangerous location, and if you know about the common scams and how to avoid them, you are significantly reducing the risk of becoming a victim.

Hence, in this article, I present you with the most annoying and frequent scams, so you know what to watch out for.

Salut, I am Lena – travel planning expert and parisienne since 2006 🩷

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Scams in Paris: Is it Really That Bad?

I don’t know if it’s a post-pandemic plague, an inflated impression due to social media, or if there are really that many scammers and thieves in Paris. But it is an undeniable fact that many travelers and Parisians alike get taken advantage of daily.

However, don’t worry about violent attacks and robberies. Typical scams in Paris include discrete thefts, creative cons, and swindles, but nothing that would harm you physically. It’s annoying and a total bummer, yet, you can protect yourself.

You might also be interested in these articles:

• Airport Transportation: How to get into Paris (your 5 options explained)
• Where to stay in Paris? These are my favorite arrondissements of Paris .
• Paris on a budget: 70+ free things to do in Paris
• Paris Packing Tips: Essentials you can’t leave home
• 9 Paris Apps to download before you travel

This being said, Paris is not more of a scammers’ paradise than elsewhere. When you are traveling to a metropole, you can be sure that scammers and thieves are already there waiting for you. Paris is no different, even though it’s generally a pretty safe city.

Read on for some tips on how to avoid becoming a victim of scammers and swindlers in Paris.

Also read: 15 mistakes you should not make when visiting Paris

Where do you find the most scammers in Paris?

Most scams in Paris happen in the tourist hotspots: The Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame, Montmartre , Disneyland , and the Champs Élysée. However, scam artists are operating as well on markets, bars, and, of course, on public transportation.

For more info on where to watch out for which scam, check the 13 most common Paris scams below.

The most typical Paris tourist scams and how to avoid them

Scammers are annoying, and a stolen phone can easily ruin your trip. Let alone a stolen wallet with your papers in it. Your best tactic to avoid becoming a victim of a con artist is to know about their tricks, to be informed, and know what to watch out for.

Here are the most frequent scams and swindles you should be aware of when traveling to Paris:

#1 Paris Scam: Pickpockets

A metropole classic and, of course, no stranger to Paris. There are plenty of pickpockets in Paris and tons of things are stolen every day, but do not get paranoid believing that everyone wants to steal from you.

Pickpockets are usually in crowded areas and in places where people are distracted:

• public transportation,
• tourist attractions
• theme parks

The best advice to avoid being a victim of theft is: be aware of your things and your surroundings, don’t get distracted, keep your valuables close. Pickpockets are not violent, they are discrete scammers that are searching for the occasion, rather than creating one.

(2023) NEW pickpocket scheme in the Parisian Metro :

Since this year, there are many reports from travelers that got pickpocketed in the metro by a group of girls. They create a situation of pushing and jostling when entering the Metro , their hands hidden behind a bag or a jacket. They steal a phone or a wallet and pass it quickly on to another girl, who removes the cash.

Funny enough, they often return the wallet to the owner before quickly leaving the Metro at the next station.

Where are you at risk of getting pickpocketed? Sadly everywhere, but mainly around tourist attractions, markets, transport, and crowded areas.

How to avoid it? Take care of your belongings, be aware of your surroundings, and have your items safely stored. Don’t store money or other valuables in easily accessible pockets.

#2 Cell Phone Theft in Metros

This is a very popular scam in the Metros that happens every day, plenty of times—to locals and tourists alike. While riding the Metro, most passengers are checking their phones; reading the news, browsing Facebook, or playing games.

Being off guard and distracted, you won’t notice the person casually walking through the carrier . And – just when the alarm announces that the doors will close and the Metro is about to leave the station – grabbing your phone and running off with it.

The doors are closed, your phone is gone, and you’ve got no chance to catch the thief.

Where to find this scam?  In public transportation.

How to avoid it?  Don’t use your phone, and don’t get distracted.

#3 Fake Taxis at Airports and Train stations

When you arrive in Paris by plane, you will be approached by someone in the arrivals area asking if you need a taxi or a private driver to Paris. Chances are that you do indeed, and how lucky you are to have found one right away. Do not ever take a ride except from the official taxi stands.

Read more:   5 ways to get from Charles de Gaulle airport to Paris – THE complete guide!

Even if those guys will most likely deliver the service they offer, they are NOT legitimate taxi drivers. In France, it is prohibited for drivers to approach customers and every time someone asks if you need a ride, they are acting against the law.

And most important; they charge you whatever they want and usually, it is outrageously high. Just walk by, ignore them, or politely decline the offer.

Official taxis accept guests at the indicated taxi stands (just follow the signs), have a light on the roof of their vehicle, and will charge you a fixed price into town. (between €55 and €62 from CDG, and €35 and €41 from Orly)

If you would rather not ride public transportation upon arrival or are unsure about finding a taxi, you can also hire a private driver before your trip. Depending on your party size, it can be even cheaper than a regular taxi. Click here to see all offers and availabilities.

Where to find this scam? In airports and train stations, it can happen in other places, too.

How to avoid it?  Don’t accept a ride from someone who is approaching you.

Good to know! Most scammers in Paris are part of a bigger organization and rarely act alone.

• If someone asks you to sign a petition, and you give them some coins, their accomplice might observe the scene and steal your wallet later, now knowing where you stored it.
• If you hear an announcement on the Metro that pickpockets are around, don’t check if your wallet is still in its place. Someone might observe the platform for exactly this gesture to find out where you’re keeping it. 

#4 The Fake Petition Scams in Paris

The fake petition scam is a simple one. A person with a clipboard and a ballpoint pen asks you to sign a petition. If you sign, they’ll then ask you for money to help a charity, which they’ll pocket for themselves. These people can be very persistent, following you until you give them something to make them go away.

Often they will surround you, look in your wallet and pressure you into giving more.

But alas, that’s not all. The petition-bearer is usually part of a gang of pickpockets who will swipe your wallet or mobile phone whilst you’re distracted by the petition. Even if they don’t do it right away, they’ll know which pocket you keep your wallet in, making it easier for them to target you later on.

I took a walking tour of Paris and our tour guide drew our attention to these scammers outside the Louvre but said that you can spot them all over the capital.

Where to find this scam?  Around all popular tourist places, the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame, the Louvre, Montmartre. I also saw them at the Palais Garnier.

How to avoid it?  The easiest way to avoid these scammers is just to say no, repeating as many times as is necessary or ignoring them altogether.

Experienced by Jenny from Cruise Mummy

#5 The Ring Scam

The creators of Wandering Wheatleys  experienced this scam:

My husband and I were walking along the river near Notre Dame on a cold December afternoon in Paris when a man sped past and then bent down to pick something up right in front of us. He stopped us with a smile, so we could admire what he’d just found lying on the sidewalk: a gold ring with an inscription of 18k!

We smiled and told him congratulations on the lucky find (but sad for whoever lost it) and started off again on our stroll.

He stopped us once again to show us his attempt to put the ring on his finger – sadly it didn’t fit him. He had me stick out my hand, so he could try it on and what do you know, it fit like a glove. Finally, he gestured to me that I could have it and I thought “wow, what a nice guy!”, still completely oblivious to the scam.

We started to walk away again, me with my newfound treasure, when he stopped us once again, this time to request a small payment for his generosity – “just €10 to buy a sandwich”. My husband and I gave each other a knowing glance – we’d just been had.

We tried to return the ring, but he insisted that we keep it. We ended up giving him €2 and keeping the ring as a memento of our first (and hopefully only) Parisian scam.

Where to find this scam?  Around all popular tourist places, the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame, the Louvre, Montmartre…

How to avoid it?   Simply by knowing about this scam and not accepting the ring.

#6 Friendship Bracelets Scam in Montmartre

Visiting Montmartre is a must-do in Paris. If you are interested in learning more about Paris, this will be a great place to do so, as it’s home to some of the most famous French landmarks. As you head up there, make sure you stay alert as it’s known to be a place with many scammers.

One of the most common scams takes place at the Sacre Coeur. Once you get to the bottom of the stairs, you will notice that a lot of people are wandering around with bracelets. They will approach you to try to sell one of these bracelets. So far there is nothing wrong with this however it’s the way it’s done that is questionable.

They can be very persistent, and before you know it, they tied the bracelet around your wrist. The only way to remove it now is by cutting it, which means you’re left with no other choice than to pay for it.

Where to find this scam?  In Montmartre, mostly on the bottom of the stairs at Sacre Coeur.

How to avoid it? The best way to avoid it is to keep an eye on people with bracelets in their hands. If they try to come closer, make sure to walk away and not give your hand or arm. As much as you are going to try, they sometimes manage to put it on without you really noticing.

If that happens to you, the best way out of this situation is to meet them halfway. Give them 1 euro (no more than that) and call it a day. By doing that, you will manage to get them to leave you in peace whilst not losing too much money. As much as you can argue the fact that you shouldn’t be paying at all, it will probably not be worth the argument, annoyance, and waste of time.

submitted by  BeeLoved City

#7 The “Poor Fellow Drops some Items” Trap

This nasty scam happened to a friend of mine while riding the train from the airport into town. While sitting there minding her own business, a man walked by and dropped – seemingly accidentally – a box with small items. Just some knick-knack that spread all over the carrier floor.

My friend went, of course, ahead and helped him pick up his belongings. While she was doing so, an accomplice stole her purse that she left unattended for a minute while helping.

Where to find this scam? On trains, but it could be anywhere else as well.

How to avoid it?  Don’t ever leave your belongings unattended.

#8 The Con(e) Game Paris Tourist Trap

As you are walking around some of Paris’ famous sites, you will see many street acts and street performances going on. Some are genuine people trying to earn an honest wage, but be cautious as there is one particular trick that is a well-known scam.

You will see one man, with three cups and a ball underneath. We saw this several times right underneath the Eiffel Tower, a place crowded with tourists, and the scammers know that tourists have money to splash.

The trick seems easy, as the person who keeps playing and gambling losses their money every time to the host. What people don’t realize is that their 6–8 onlookers creating a scene are all part of the gang.

The only way to avoid it is to just walk on and not even make eye contact with anyone around the game. They will see your interest in what is going on and try to lure you in.

We tried to stop somebody from gambling their money as we quickly picked up what was happening, but 2 members of the gang shoved us away and followed us out of the park to ensure we didn’t cause them grief.

Where to find this scam? Close to the Eiffel Tower and the Trocadero

How to avoid it?  Don’t play because you will certainly lose.

Manpreet K from  Your Vegan Adventure

#9 Cheap Entrance Ticket Scam in Paris

You find this swindle in Paris often close to exhibitions, fair trades, concerts, public transport stations, and events.

It’s pretty simple: someone approaches you and offers an event ticket for a cheaper price.  Typically these tickets are bought as group tickets that are cheaper in a bundle, sometimes the tickets are just counterfeit or regarding Metro Tickets – already used. In any case – don’t buy anything if not from a valid source.

Where to find this scam? Potentially everywhere.

How to avoid it?  Don’t buy anything from strangers that are approaching you and offering a seemingly good deal.

#10 The Menu without Prices Trap

Experienced by Deb from The Visa Project

When doing TESOL training in Spain, I visited Paris more than a few times and came across gullible tourists being approached by scammers. While I was able to escape the gold ring or rose scams, a friend and I got ripped off at a gelato shop near Montmartre artist square.

We had been walking around all day and made a snap decision of buy a couple of cones and two cokes. And made the mistake of not even checking the price. While usually, gelatos cost five dollars or so, the cashier quoted us fifty euros.

We tried to reason with him in broken French, but he simply shrugged and we had to pay. So, a menu without a price is a strict no. Variations to this scam are giving you a special “tourist menu” with much higher prices, giving you change in coins that are not euros or charging you for items you didn’t order.

Where to find this scam? in tourist areas

How to avoid it? Always check the menu before ordering – they are usually displayed outside the bar/restaurant.

#11 Tuk-Tuk rides with Hidden Fees

Exploring a city in a tuk-tuk is all fun and games, that’s for sure. But to be on the safe side, always arrange your ride in advance through a trustworthy company. Because once in Paris, you will notice TukTuks that are waiting in front of the famous sights.

No matter how tempting it might be to take the occasion to get quickly and easily to your next sightseeing point, don’t do it. While the tuk-tuk will most likely bring you to your destination, the price keeps a costly surprise.

More often than not, the driver will show you upon arrival a little byline on his pricing sheet that the fee is per person, not per ride. Of course, when accepting the ride, the byline is hidden behind a piece of paper and there is not a mutter about this important detail.

How to avoid it? Don’t take a tuk-tuk

#12 Expired Tickets at the Metro Station

This seems to be a fairly new scam in 2023, so better watch out for it. I received quite a few reports from travelers that got scammed when attempting to buy tickets at the ticket vending machines in a Metro station.

The scam goes like this: A person who looks like an official due to their lanyard approaches you at the machines. For one reason or another, they will help you buy your ticket. Every so often, they request cash instead of credit card payments. However, they will hand you out a ticket, claiming it’s a day ticket or a tourist ticket, while in fact, it’s a simple one–way ticket that you paid €20 for.

You will notice the mistake only way later because the ticket the person hands you will open the turnstiles and let you ride the Metro. But only once.

Where to find this scam? In Metro stations

How to avoid it? Buy your tickets only yourself or at the counter.

#13 “Tips are required in France” Scam

Tipping in Paris is probably one of the topics, that stirs up the most controversy on social media. Firstly: Tipping is NOT obligatory in France , and neither is it utterly rude not to tip, but it is appreciated, of course.

Waiters earn minimum wage like many other employees in Paris and are not paid through tips like in the US, for example. If you want to tip, greatl, but 10% is more than generous.

Now about the scam. Some waiters in tourist areas try to take advantage of tourists from countries with a big tipping culture. Instead of just letting you leave a tip or not, as you please, they will outright ask you: how much tip do you want to add? Some even go ahead and add the tip directly to the bill.

If you act surprised, they will try to make you believe that tipping is customary in Paris and you are expected to do so. It is not. Point.

Good to know: You might notice “service included” or “ service compris ” written on your bill. This doesn’t mean that a part of your bill goes to the server and tipping is unnecessary.

Also good to know: If you see TVA % on your bill, it is not an attempt to scam you to leave a tip. It is the tax that is included in your overall bill, and that the restaurant has to pay to the state.

3 Common Issues in the Metro that are NOT a Scam

Scams are an issue in Paris, but not every mishap is a scam. I often come across reports from travelers that leave Paris with the sour taste of feeling scammed. They feel that they got taken advantage of or were targeted. In most of these cases, they simply did not play by the rules because they didn’t know better.

To prevent you from experiencing the same, here are 3 common problems tourists face, that are not a scam.

#1 Getting fined for having the wrong ticket in Metros

If you don’t have the correct Metro ticket when being controlled, you will have to pay a fine, and there is no way to get around this. They will not listen to your excuse, don’t care if you are a tourist, and they will not be empathetic with your specific situation.

This applies if your ticket requires a photo and your name, and you didn’t add it, if you bought the wrong fare, and also, if you trash your ticket before leaving the station. The controllers are not targeting tourists, they target everyone.

#2 Getting fined for having your feet on the seat

If you are on a train, a Metro, or a bus and your feet touch one of the seats, you will have to pay a fine. It is against the rules of transportation and here again, it’s not targeting tourists, it is just the way it is.

#3 Asking you to pay a fine in cash

If you get caught without a ticket or your feet on the seat, you can pay your fine on the spot, even in cash. They are not pocketing it, it is just one of the ways how you can pay your fine.

They will probably tell you to either pay €35 now, or €65 later. This neither is a scam. The amount of the fine rises the longer you wait for the payment.

Quick Tips: How to avoid falling for Paris Scams?

It depends, of course, on the kind of scam, but as a general guideline, try to follow those tips:

• Don’t get distracted in crowded places.  Typical situations are when exiting the Metro or looking for a street or a building. Know where you need to go beforehand, check your itineraries, and if you are unsure, find a more quiet place to check your map than the Metro platform.
• Keep your bags closed.  I know that sounds like obvious, but you would never believe how many people I see every day in Paris that aren’t closing their bags properly.
• Ignore everyone that approaches you randomly. This is just never happening without a malicious reason. Very often, this person’s sole job is to distract you, while their accomplice is stealing your things.
• Don’t leave your bag or phone on the table or seat next to you.  Especially (but not only!) when eating/drinking outside. (when I am with a backpack or should bag, I usually put it on the ground or seat but loop the shoulder strap around a leg of the chair or my arm)
• Don’t accept anything from strangers . No rose, no ring, no ticket.

Voilà, these are the most common scams in Paris that you should know about. But please don’t get paranoid about this. It’s likely you will not see and hear any of this, but enjoy Paris to the fullest. Just keep in mind to not accept rides, don’t buy from strangers, and make sure your valuables are safely stored.

Bon voyage !

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FAQ: Paris Scams

The most common tourist scams in Paris are pickpockets, fake petition scams, bracelet scams, and the popular cone game.

The best way to avoid tourist scams in Paris is to be alert and attentive to your surrounding, and not to engage with strangers who are approaching you on the street. Make sure you stay informed about prices and directions, so you appear confident in public.

Keep your valuables close and make sure your bag can be closed by a zipper. Don’t wear your wallet easily accessible. If you happen to be in a crowd, hold your bag tied and don’t get distracted.

The most common crimes are petty theft like scams and pickpockets. Tourists don’t need to fear being violently attacked or robbed.

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Top 10 Paris Scams & how to avoid them

Navigating paris: unmasking the unseen scams.

Welcome to the city of lights, where every cobblestone tells a story. As you soak in the charm of Paris, it’s crucial to be aware of the shadows lurking behind its enchantment. Unveiling the lesser-known scams is like adding an extra layer of armor to your adventure.

Fake Metro or Museum Ticket Scam

In this ruse, individuals target tourists by offering discounted Metro or museum tickets, often claiming they have extras or access to special deals. However, these tickets can be fake, leading to fines or denied entry. To avoid this, always purchase tickets from official vendors and authorized outlets.

Bracelet Scam

As you wander along the Seine, a friendly local might approach, seemingly offering a free bracelet. Once tied around your wrist, the story takes a turn, and they insist on payment. Politely decline such ‘gifts’ and maintain distance, as this is a distraction tactic.

Restaurant Menu Scam

While exploring the charming streets, you may be enticed by a quaint bistro advertising enticing deals. However, some establishments may add hidden charges to your bill. Protect yourself by confirming prices before ordering and choosing places with transparent menus.

Fake Taxi Scam

Unregistered or fake taxis might approach you at the airport while exiting or at touristic areas, offering rides at inflated rates or taking unnecessary detours. Stick to licensed taxis or reputable ride-sharing services with clear identification to avoid being overcharged or taken advantage of. You should always use the well known transfer options for your airport transfer to and from Paris .

Help Me I’m Lost Scam

In this scam, a seemingly distressed tourist hands you a map, seeking directions. While you’re engaged, an accomplice may attempt to snatch your belongings. Stay cautious, keep your personal items secure, and be wary of sudden distractions.

Pickpockets

Crowded tourist attractions like the Louvre or Eiffel Tower or the Paris metro are hotspots for pickpockets. Use anti-theft bags , remain vigilant, and keep valuables close to your body to minimize the risk of theft.

Phone Theft

Smartphones are prime targets for theft. Enjoying your time on a parisian terrace, just be mindful and don’t leave your phone on the table. You could easily have robbers come by, distract you and leave with your phone without you noticing. Be cautious of distractions, secure your device in a zipped pocket or a crossbody bag , and consider installing tracking apps to locate your phone if lost or stolen.

Front Row scam

This happened to my father and myself many years ago. As we were going to a show, they gladly took us to the front row, offering some champagne and being at service. After we had a great moment, they came with the bill and we’ve been totally overcharged by a few hundred dollars. Before ordering anything, just double check the price.

The Petition Scam

In this scenario, scammers approach with petitions, diverting your attention while an accomplice is looking at your pockets or belongings. Politely decline involvement and keep moving to minimize the risk of theft.

Three Cups Game

Avoid participating in street games involving cups and a hidden object. These games are designed to confuse and swindle unsuspecting participants. You will often see accomplices around gambling with other people but this only happens with the goal to take your money.

Dropped Gold Ring

The ‘found gold ring’ scam involves strangers claiming to find a valuable ring, often trying to engage you in conversation. Don’t engage with strangers offering found items, as it’s a common distraction for pickpockets.

Paris, a city of magic and mystery, demands a balance between trust and caution. As you savor its beauty, stay vigilant against the unseen. So, are you ready to weave your own tale in the city of lights, armed with the wisdom to navigate its shadows?

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Common paris tourist scams and how to avoid them.

This post may contain affiliate links, meaning that if you click and make a purchase, I may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. Read the full disclosure here .

As one of the most visited cities in Europe, Paris attracts a large number of tourists every year, making it an ideal spot for scammers and swindlers to take advantage. One of the best ways we can avoid scams is by being aware of the most common cons so that you can easily recognize them. Here are some common scams that you may encounter in Paris when you are visiting, where you’ll see them, and how to protect yourself and your belongings. Some of these scams are typical of large cities and a few are more unique to Paris.

This post is not meant to scare you or make you fearful of visiting Paris as a tourist. Generally speaking, Paris is a pretty safe city, and I’ve felt comfortable walking around most areas even at night time. However, it is important to be aware of the dangers and situations that can arise.

Table of Contents

Shady Taxis

When you arrive in Paris at the airport, this may be the very first scam you come across. Upon exiting the baggage claim area, there are “taxi drivers” waiting to usher you away to their cars. If you plan to hire a taxi, only take a taxi from the official taxi stands. There is clear signage in the airports to let you know where to find them. Additionally, there is often an attendant helping to efficiently direct people from the queue into the waiting cars. 

To and from the airports, there is a flat fee according to which bank of Paris you are going to, although some taxi drivers will bank on you not knowing this and try to charge you more. Every taxi is supposed to be equipped with a credit card reader, but sometimes it “doesn’t work” or they “don’t have one.” This means they want to be paid cash so that there’s no record. Before getting into any taxi at the airport, I confirm that I can pay by card and I confirm the price.

If you plan to take a taxi elsewhere in Paris, and not just to or from the airport, know that official Parisian taxis have a Parisian taxi sign and a visible meter. Taxis are heavily regulated in Paris (and throughout France), so read up on the rules.

If you are scammed by a Parisian taxi, you can file a complaint online in English or in French . This form can be used for non-compliance of rates, credit card refusal, etc.

Friendship Bracelets

This scam is quite common in the Montmartre area of Paris. In particular, as you make your way up the steps to the magnificent Sacré-Cœur Basilica, guys waiting on the stairs may try to casually chat with you while braiding a bracelet and tying it to your wrist. These scammers tend to target women more often.

This is one of the worst scams in my opinion because they invade your personal space and can get very close to you. If they succeed in attaching a bracelet or string to your wrist, they will demand money from you. Since they tied it on, it will be hard to remove the bracelet (although usually it releases with a pull of the string). Even at this point, you have no obligation to pay them, but you’d be in an uncomfortable position.

If you want to circumvent this situation altogether, I recommend avoiding the stairs in front of the Sacré-Cœur. Instead, approach the basilica from the side or take the funicular to the summit.

Personally, I haven’t let this scam get in my way. Typically, I give a firm and loud “ NON ” and/or “ Ne me touche pas ,” if any of those guys approach me. Putting your hands in your pockets or crossing your arms are also good measures. It’s been my experience that even though they appear pushy, these men back down quickly as they’re seeking people who are unaware.   

A man holding a bouquet of roses approaches and extends one to you without saying a word. A rose in the City of Love—how romantic! As a reflex, you’ll be tempted to take it, but if you do, it’ll cost you… or your partner! It’s not a gift. They’re definitely going to want some money for that flower.

Usually, these men make their way around to people sitting outside on a café or restaurant terrace. As you can imagine, they target women and couples in particular. Most notably observed in the evening, this scam is prevalent in the Marais, in the Latin Quarter, and along the Seine but it can happen just about anywhere!

A simple no and/or a wave of your hand will send them on their way. They’re not going to waste any more time on you if the chance of a sale is low!

Dropped Ring Scam

This is the only scam on this roundup list that I have not witnessed firsthand and have only heard about from others. From what I’ve heard, this scam commonly takes place along the banks of the Seine river and near touristy attractions.

As you stroll along, you might notice someone pick up a ring off the ground. They might ask if it’s yours or if you saw where it came from, handing it to you. They might try to convince you that it’s valuable and attempt to get you to pay them for it.

A creative swindle, there are a few variations as to how this scam might play out. The main premise is that there is a “valuable” piece of jewelry that the scammer will try to get you to take. Basically, as we see in this scam and many others, don’t take anything from anyone giving you something on the street!

Signatures for a Cause

This scam is primarily run by women and girls. Holding clipboards, they will try to get you to sign their sheet for some cause or charity that they are supposedly supporting. After you sign your name to the petition, they will ask for your donation. As you’ve likely surmised, the donation will be going directly to their own wallet. In another variation of this scam, one of their accomplices might be pickpocketing you while your attention is on the clipboard.

There are two tactics that I’ve seen employed to initiate an interaction with unsuspecting tourists. The first tactic is that they will ask if you speak English. A second tactic is that they will pretend to be mute and/or deaf and will simply motion you over so that you can read the information on their clipboard. As minor children are often running this scam, you may feel moved to stop and help them out.

I’ve noticed this scam around the Les Halles shopping area, Notre Dame Cathedral, and the Louvre in particular. If you’ve identified this scam, the best solution is to ignore it completely. They will not pursue you.

➡️ Note: In some areas of Paris, there are people promoting causes and asking for donations on the street. This is common with the Red Cross, Amnesty International, and others. People who are working for these organizations will be easily identifiable in their vibrant and clearly marked vests, jackets, t-shirts, etc. These volunteers are legitimate, but personally, when I donate, I prefer to do so online.

Fake Tickets

With the ease of buying entrance and event tickets online and the dematerialization of paper transportation tickets in Paris, this scam is thankfully losing relevancy.

In the past, I’ve seen people try to sell metro tickets in major stations. When the lines for the ticket distribution machines are long, it can be tempting to take advantage of this offer. Very likely, the tickets being sold by scammers are a reduced price fare ticket (such as for a child) or the ticket has already been used and is no longer valid.

Sometimes, around museums and other attractions, you might see people selling entrance tickets. It could be a valid ticket that was purchased at a group rate discount or it could be entirely counterfeit. I wouldn’t recommend taking the risk!

Only buy your tickets from official vendors and websites. If someone approaches you with a good deal, it’s probably not actually a good deal.

Cup & Ball Game

The cup and ball game is a classic trick. There are three cups and one ball. The scammer places the ball under one of the cups and shuffles all three cups around. The object of the game is to indicate under which cup the ball is located. To play the game, you have to make a bet and if you win, your money will be doubled!

It starts off slowly and it seems easy enough… that’s part of the plan. But the scammer is not working alone to pull off this con. Their friends are planted in the crowd to egg you on and encourage higher bets. When you see them win, you’ll be emboldened to try your luck! However, when someone from outside the scammer group makes a bet, the hustler running the game uses a sleight of hand to make sure they lose.

You’ll definitely come across this rigged game near the Eiffel Tower and Trocadéro, around Montmartre, and also on many bridges along the Seine River. Don’t be sucked into playing this game. No offense, but you don’t stand a chance. I do have to admit that I’ve watched from a careful distance though!

Pickpockets on the Metro

Truth be told, pickpockets are present in many areas of Paris. Perhaps it’s not so much a scam, but it’s definitely worth a mention. The metro, in particular, is favored by pickpockets because after grabbing your valuables, they can easily jump out of the car as the doors are closing. By the time you realize what’s happened, your possessions are gone and it’s too late.

I’ve witnessed pickpockets in action on the Paris metro twice. One time, it was a female passenger standing next to me who alerted me to two men. It’s common for thieves to work in pairs so that one can be a lookout. They were extremely shifty, staring at hand and shoulder bags, and getting unnaturally close to people, particularly women who were focused on their phone screens. If you notice suspicious behavior, it could be a good idea to inform someone nearby in order to enlist their assistance if needed.

Pickpockets are quick and good at what they do. To the best of your ability, be aware of your surroundings and people who get very close to you. Make it a habit to zip your pockets and keep a tight grip on your cell phone if you have it out. On the metro in particular, keep your possessions in front of you.

Read More: 10+ Mistakes Tourists Often Make in Paris

What to Do If You Fall Victim to a Scam

First and foremost, please know that it is not your fault if you fall victim to one of these scams. We can only do so much to protect ourselves. None of us can be vigilant 100% of the time. All it takes is one second of letting your guard down. Scammers are opportunists who thrive on tricking, deceiving, and taking advantage. We are not in the wrong; they are. And it also isn’t helpful or kind to pass judgment or blame on someone who did get taken advantage of. Saying something like, “Well, that’s never happened to me,” doesn’t mean that it never will.

Unfortunately, if you realize that you have been scammed or you discover that your belongings have been stolen, there is not much you can do and this is extremely unfair. In Paris, it is very unlikely that you will get your possessions or money back, although some people do have a mostly empty wallet returned every now and then.

To report a theft, you’ll need to go to the nearest police station ( commissariat in French) and lodge a complaint. This is called “ porter plainte .” Normally, you can walk into any police station in order to make the report. To save time, you can start the process online .

Related: Do you have the French emergency numbers noted down?

If your identity papers and/or passport were stolen while in Paris, you should contact the nearest embassy or consulate for your country. The US Embassy offers same day processing of emergency US passports on a walk-in basis.

Are you familiar with these scams? Let us know where you’ve seen them happening in Paris in the comments below!

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2 thoughts on “ Common Paris Tourist Scams and How to Avoid Them ”

Ah! Have not fallen for any of those scams, perhaps because I am a poorly dressed, portly geezer and could easily pass for a homeless person. I have fallen for another scam, although I wonder if it could really be called a “scam”. A lovely young woman came up to me and asked me if I would like to buy a copy of her collection. “Why not?”, I said. [That, btw, is a new “French” expression that I have heard twice in French movies recently and once on “France Info”]. I was glad to shell out 40 francs (that’s how long ago it was). And every time I see the collection, I wonder if she is the next Baudelaire, and I have a vivid memory of her and the day. Cue the music: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vvjhsZYaofk

What a memory!

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Top Tourist Scams in Paris and How to Avoid Them

How to avoid common scams in paris.

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Top Tourist Scams in Paris: A Guide to Avoiding Them

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Paris is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, attracting millions of visitors each year. Unfortunately, it is also a city with a high incidence of scams that target tourists. Scammers in Paris use a variety of tactics to trick unsuspecting visitors, from pickpocketing to elaborate schemes involving fake petitions and gold rings.

Tourist scams in Paris can be costly, both financially and emotionally. Falling victim to a scam can ruin a vacation and leave a traveler feeling violated and vulnerable. It is important for tourists to be aware of the most common scams in Paris and to take steps to avoid them. By staying informed and being vigilant, visitors can enjoy all that Paris has to offer without falling prey to scammers.

Understanding Scams in Paris

Paris is a beautiful city, rich in culture and history, and a popular tourist destination. However, it is also known for its scams that target unsuspecting tourists. Being aware of the most common scams and how to avoid them can help you have a safe and enjoyable trip.

Common Types of Scams

There are several types of scams that tourists should be aware of when visiting Paris. Pickpocketing is one of the most common scams that tourists encounter. Scammers often work in groups and use diversionary tactics to distract tourists while they steal their wallets, phones, and other valuables.

Another common scam is the gold ring scam, where a scammer will approach a tourist and claim to have found a gold ring on the ground. They will then offer to sell the ring to the tourist for a low price, claiming that they need the money for food or transportation. In reality, the ring is usually fake, and the scammer is just trying to make a quick profit.

Other common scams include the friendship bracelet scam, the petition scam, and the fake charity scam. In the friendship bracelet scam, a scammer will approach a tourist and offer to make them a friendship bracelet. Once the bracelet is made, the scammer will demand payment, often for an exorbitant amount. In the petition scam, a scammer will approach a tourist and ask them to sign a petition for a good cause. Once the tourist has signed, the scammer will demand a donation. In the fake charity scam, a scammer will approach a tourist and claim to be collecting money for a charity. They will often use emotional appeals to get the tourist to donate.

Identifying Scammers

Scammers in Paris often work in groups and use distraction and diversionary tactics to steal from tourists. They may work in crowded areas such as subway stations, tourist attractions, and markets. Tourists should be wary of anyone who approaches them and tries to engage them in conversation or offers them something for free.

Scammers may also use props such as clipboards, petitions, and maps to appear legitimate. Tourists should be cautious of anyone who tries to get them to sign anything or asks for their personal information.

Psychology Behind Scams

Scammers in Paris often use psychological tactics to manipulate tourists. They may use emotional appeals, such as claiming to be hungry or homeless, to get tourists to give them money. They may also use fear tactics, such as claiming that the tourist is in danger or that their valuables are at risk.

Tourists should be aware of these tactics and remain calm and rational when approached by a potential scammer. They should also be aware that scammers often work in groups and may try to distract them while another member of the group steals their valuables.

By understanding the common types of scams, identifying scammers, and being aware of the psychology behind scams, tourists can avoid falling victim to scams in Paris.

Pickpocketing and Theft

Pickpocketing is a common problem in Paris, especially in crowded tourist areas. Tourists are often targeted because they are perceived as easy targets. In order to avoid being pickpocketed, tourists should take certain precautions.

High-Risk Locations

Tourists should be particularly careful in high-risk locations such as the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame, Montmartre, Disneyland, and the Champs Élysées. These areas are frequented by pickpockets and other thieves. Tourists should also be aware of pickpockets on the metro, as this is another common location for theft.

Protecting Your Valuables

Tourists should take steps to protect their valuables. They should avoid carrying large amounts of cash and should keep their wallets and bags close to their bodies. It is also a good idea to use a fanny pack or a cross-body bag, as these are more difficult for pickpockets to access. Tourists should also be careful with their cameras and phones, as these are often targeted by pickpockets.

What to Do If You’re Pickpocketed

If a tourist is pickpocketed, they should report the theft to the police as soon as possible. They should also cancel any credit cards and notify their bank. Tourists should keep a record of their passport number and other important documents in a safe place, so that they can easily replace them if they are stolen. It is also a good idea to have a backup plan in case of theft, such as a spare credit card or cash hidden in a separate location.

By taking these precautions, tourists can reduce their risk of being pickpocketed or having their valuables stolen.

Scams Targeting Tourists

Paris is a beautiful city, but it is also notorious for its tourist scams. Tourists are often targeted by scammers who are looking to make some quick money. These scammers are very clever and can be very convincing. In this section, we will take a look at some of the most common scams that target tourists in Paris.

Fake Petition Scam

One of the most common scams in Paris is the fake petition scam. Scammers will approach tourists with a clipboard and ask them to sign a petition for a good cause, such as helping the deaf or blind. Once the tourist has signed the petition, the scammer will ask for a donation. The tourist will usually give a donation, thinking that they are doing a good deed. However, the money will not go to the cause that the scammer was promoting, but instead will go into the scammer’s pocket.

Gold Ring Scam

Another common scam in Paris is the gold ring scam. Scammers will approach tourists and show them a gold ring that they have supposedly found on the ground. The scammer will ask the tourist if the ring belongs to them. When the tourist says no, the scammer will offer to sell the ring to the tourist for a low price. However, the ring is usually fake and the tourist will end up paying more than the ring is worth.

Friendship Bracelet Scam

In the vibrant streets of Montmartre, stories are abound about a clever, yet deceitful scam that takes place near the iconic Sacre Coeur. Picture this: you’re leisurely strolling along when an amiable stranger approaches you, with a warm smile and an outstretched hand, seemingly offering a friendly greeting. Little do you know, this innocuous act sets in motion a wicked game of deception. Within seconds, a burst of color unravels around your finger, as if by magic. Before you have time to react, this vibrant thread swiftly transforms into a delicate bracelet, woven with intricate skill. Ensnared like a fish on a hook, you are left vulnerable to the scam artist’s demands for payment.

To steer clear of trouble, resist the temptation to touch around bustling tourist hotspots! Avoid extending your hand to any unfamiliar faces, and if you mistakenly find yourself entangled, swiftly unravel the knotty thread.

Rose Seller Scam

In Paris, the city of romance, one might think that a spontaneous gift of a fresh rose carries sweet sentiments of kindness and love. Unfortunately, behind the seemingly innocent gesture lies a deceptive plot – a scammer seeking to exploit your financial resources. If you fall for their trap and accept the floral offering, be prepared to face immediate demands for payment. Even if you swiftly return the flower, these crafty individuals may persist, relentlessly pursuing their ulterior motives.

How to Avoid: Beware the gifts from strangers – a lesson as valid in adulthood as it is in childhood!

It is important for tourists to be aware of these common scams in Paris. By being aware of these scams, tourists can avoid being scammed and enjoy their time in Paris without any problems.

Dining and Restaurant Scams

Paris is known for its culinary delights, but unfortunately, some restaurants take advantage of unsuspecting tourists. Here are some common dining and restaurant scams to watch out for:

One of the most common dining scams in Paris is the menu scam. In this scam, restaurants lure tourists in with attractive menus and low prices, only to charge exorbitant prices for food and drinks that are of poor quality. To avoid falling victim to this scam, tourists should do some research before choosing a restaurant. They can read reviews online or ask locals for recommendations. It is also a good idea to avoid restaurants that are located in tourist areas, as they are more likely to engage in this type of scam.

Bill Padding

Another common dining scam in Paris is bill padding. In this scam, restaurants add extra charges to the bill, such as a cover charge or a charge for bread that was not ordered. To avoid this scam, tourists should carefully review the bill before paying. They can also ask for an itemized bill to ensure that they are only being charged for what they ordered. If they notice any discrepancies, they should bring it to the attention of the restaurant staff.

Tourists should also be wary of restaurants that offer free drinks or other incentives to lure them in. These restaurants may be trying to make up for the cost of the free items by overcharging for other items on the menu. Additionally, tourists should avoid restaurants that have pushy waitstaff or that pressure them to order quickly.

By being aware of these common dining and restaurant scams, tourists can enjoy the culinary delights of Paris without falling victim to fraud.

Transportation Scams

Transportation scams are quite common in Paris, and tourists should be aware of them. Here are some of the most common transportation scams in Paris and how to avoid them.

Fake Taxi Scams

One of the most common transportation scams in Paris is the fake taxi scam. Scammers will often pose as taxi drivers and offer rides to unsuspecting tourists. These fake taxis are unlicensed and will often charge exorbitant fares. To avoid falling victim to this scam, tourists should only take taxis from official taxi stands. These stands are located throughout the city and are clearly marked. Tourists should also make sure that the taxi has a meter and that the driver starts it at the beginning of the ride.

Metro Scams

The metro is a convenient and affordable way to get around Paris. However, tourists should be aware of the metro scams that are prevalent in the city. One common scam involves pickpockets who work in groups and target tourists on crowded trains. They will often use diversionary tactics, such as pretending to be lost or asking for directions, to distract tourists while they steal their wallets or purses. To avoid falling victim to this scam, tourists should keep their valuables close and be aware of their surroundings at all times.

Another metro scam involves scammers who will try to “help” tourists use the ticket machines. They will often offer to help tourists buy a ticket, but instead, they will take the money and run. To avoid falling victim to this scam, tourists should only use the official ticket machines and avoid accepting help from strangers.

In conclusion, tourists should be aware of the transportation scams in Paris and take necessary precautions to avoid falling victim to them. By following the tips mentioned above, tourists can enjoy their trip to Paris without any hassle.

ATM and Credit Card Fraud

When traveling to Paris, it’s important to be aware of the risks associated with using ATMs and credit cards. Here are some common scams to look out for and tips on how to avoid them.

ATM Skimming

ATM skimming is a common scam in which a device is attached to the card reader of an ATM to steal the information from the magnetic strip of your card. Criminals may also use a small camera to capture your PIN as you enter it. Once they have your card information and PIN, they can create a counterfeit card and use it to withdraw cash or make purchases.

To avoid falling victim to ATM skimming, it’s important to take a few precautions. First, try to use ATMs located in well-lit, high-traffic areas, such as inside a bank or shopping center. These are less likely to be targeted by criminals. Second, always cover the keypad with your hand when entering your PIN to prevent a camera from capturing it. Finally, if you notice anything suspicious about the ATM, such as a loose card reader or an unusual device attached to it, do not use it and report it to the bank or authorities.

Credit Card Cloning

Credit card cloning is another common scam in which criminals use a device to copy the information from your credit card’s magnetic strip. They can then create a counterfeit card and use it to make purchases or withdraw cash.

To avoid credit card cloning, it’s important to keep your credit card in sight at all times when making a purchase. If a merchant takes your card out of your sight, they may be using a skimming device to clone your card. Additionally, be wary of any unusual charges on your credit card statement and report them to your bank immediately.

Overall, it’s important to be vigilant when using ATMs and credit cards in Paris. By taking these precautions, you can reduce your risk of falling victim to these common scams.

Street Scams and Performances

Paris is a city that attracts millions of tourists every year, and unfortunately, it also attracts scammers. Tourists should be aware of the various street scams and performances that are common in Paris. Here are some of the most common street scams and performances to watch out for.

Street Vendor Scams

Tourists should be wary of street vendors who approach them with seemingly good deals on items like jewelry, mobile phones, and designer handbags. These vendors often use high-pressure sales tactics to convince tourists to buy their products, but the items they sell are usually fake or of poor quality. Tourists should avoid buying anything from these vendors and only purchase from reputable stores.

Performance Scams

Paris is known for its street performers; while many are legitimate and entertaining, some are scammers. Tourists should be cautious of street performers who approach them and offer to take their pictures with them. These performers will often demand payment for the photo, and if the tourist refuses to pay, they may become aggressive. Tourists should also be wary of street performers who ask for donations. While it is expected to tip performers who provide entertainment, tourists should be cautious of performers who demand money.

Tourists should also be aware of the “gold ring scam,” which involves a scammer dropping a fake gold ring on the ground in front of a tourist and then pretending to find it. The scammer will then offer to sell the ring to the tourist at a low price. Tourists should avoid engaging with these scammers and should report them to the police if they encounter them.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are common scams to watch out for near popular paris landmarks like the eiffel tower.

Tourists should be cautious of scammers around popular Paris landmarks like the Eiffel Tower. One common scam involves people approaching tourists and offering to take their picture. They may then demand money for the photo. Another scam involves people selling cheap souvenirs at inflated prices. Tourists should also be wary of people who approach them and ask for donations or signatures for a charity or petition. It’s best to avoid these situations altogether.

How can visitors identify and evade pickpocketing in the Paris Metro?

Pickpocketing is a common problem in the Paris Metro. Tourists should be vigilant and keep an eye on their belongings at all times. They should avoid carrying valuable items such as passports, expensive cameras, or large amounts of cash. It’s also a good idea to keep bags and wallets close to the body and in front of them. Tourists should be wary of anyone who bumps into them or distracts them in any way.

What should tourists do to avoid falling for the ‘gold ring trick’ in Paris?

The ‘gold ring trick’ is a common scam in Paris where a person will approach a tourist and ask if they dropped a gold ring. They will then try to sell the ring to the tourist at a high price. Tourists should be cautious of anyone who approaches them with this story. They should also avoid engaging with anyone who tries to sell them anything on the street.

Are there specific scams targeting tourists at Disneyland Paris, and how can they be prevented?

Tourists should be aware of scams targeting them at Disneyland Paris. One scam involves people selling fake tickets or offering to sell tickets at a discounted price. Tourists should only buy tickets from official vendors. Another scam involves people offering to take photos with tourists and then demanding payment. Tourists should also be cautious of people who approach them and ask for donations or signatures for a charity or petition.

What is the ‘friendship bracelet’ scam at Sacre Coeur, and how can tourists protect themselves?

The ‘friendship bracelet’ scam is a common scam at Sacre Coeur where a person will approach a tourist and offer to make them a friendship bracelet. They will then demand payment for the bracelet. Tourists should be cautious of anyone who approaches them with this offer. It’s best to avoid engaging with anyone who tries to sell them anything on the street.

How can travelers safeguard themselves against street gambling scams like the ‘3 cups 1 ball’ in Paris?

Street gambling scams like the ‘3 cups 1 ball’ are common in Paris. Tourists should be cautious of anyone who approaches them with this game. They should also avoid engaging with anyone who tries to sell them anything on the street. It’s best to keep a safe distance from these situations and not to participate in any street gambling games.

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10 Biggest Tourist SCAMS in Paris

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⏱ Time codes (Top 9 Biggest Tourist SCAMS in Paris) 00:00 INTRO 00:34 Phone Theft on Terrasses 01:03 Found Gold Ring Scam 01:40 Fake Metro or Museum Tickets Scam 02:17 Pigalle Shows Expensive Champagne Scam 03:05 Free Bracelets Street Sellers Scam 03:41 Restaurant Scam 04:30 Fake Taxi Scam 05:29 Help Me I’m Lost Scam 06:12 Paris Pickpockets

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Is paris safe | an insider’s guide to avoiding common tourist scams.

Everything you need to know about staying safe in Paris.

Paris is one of the most visited cities in the world, so it certainly has its share of tourism-related petty crime, but overall Paris is very safe.

In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about staying safe in Paris—including the best & worst neighborhoods, tips for visiting Paris alone, common travel scams, avoiding pickpockets, taxi scams, and more tips from locals about how to stay safe in Paris.

Is Paris Safe to Visit?

Yes, Paris is safe—especially when it comes to violent crimes like assaults and mugging so your physical safety is rarely something you’ll need to worry about. But Paris is still a major city with its fair share of “big city problems,” so you should follow the same general commonsense advice you would when visiting any large city.

However, like any major tourist destination, petty crimes like pickpocketing, theft, and general tourist scams are common. Luckily these can all be avoided by taking a few simple proactive steps and being aware of the typical methods used by thieves.

Topics Covered In This Article

• Avoiding Pickpockets in Paris

What Parts of Paris Are Dangerous?

What are the safest areas of paris, common tourist scams in paris, is the paris metro (subway) safe, is paris safe for solo women travelers, is it safe to visit paris alone, is it safe to walk around paris at night, general paris safety tips, avoiding pickpockets in paris.

The most common type of crime tourists in Paris might encounter is pickpocketing—I’ve written extensively about pickpockets in Europe if you want to learn more. In fact, Paris consistently ranks as one of the top five European cities for pickpocketing incidents.

And since this is such a common problem, I’m going to spend a little extra time on the subject.

What Items Pickpockets Target

Purses, wallets, and cash are always prime targets for pickpockets but mobile phones are probably the most stolen items since they’re valuable and easy to resale.

Where Pickpockets Are Most Common in Paris

The most likely places to get pickpocketed are major tourist sites like the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame, Sacré-Cœur/Montmartre, and the Champs-Elysées.

The metro, busses, and train stations are also very popular targets for pickpockets. The train from the airport to the city attracts many pickpockets since anyone with a suitcase makes an easy target.

Bustling sidewalk cafes are another popular spot where phones and purses disappear.

More and more pickpockets have started to target museums as well—especially the Louvre since it draws huge crowds (in fact, some Louvre employees went on strike a few years ago because it was getting so bad).

Who Are Pickpockets

First, visitors are often surprised that a vast majority of pickpockets in Paris are aged 12 and 16 since French law makes it nearly impossible to arrest minors.

Second, many pickpockets are also female because women aren’t often perceived as threats so they make better pickpockets.

Thirds, almost all pickpockets work in small groups. This makes it easier for them to distract their targets and it’s harder to catch a group when they split up if detected.

Common Tactics Used By Pickpockets in Paris

Almost all pickpockets use confusion and distraction to rob their victims.

Typically they’ll target places where there are a lot of people crammed together into a small amount of space—like a busy subway car, a packed bus, a chaotic train station, a group of people watching a street performer, crowded farmers markets, ATMs/ticket machines, etc.

The small group of pickpockets will secretly surround their victim. One or two might try distracting the victim by blocking their way, shoving a map or “charity petition” clipboard in their face, causing a commotion, or something similar that diverts their attention.

While this is happening, someone else in the group will be going through the victim’s bag or pockets. Then they’ll all disperse in different directions.

It all happens very quickly.

A vast majority of Paris is perfectly safe but there are a few neighborhoods/areas that are a bit more sketchy. I don’t want to paint these entire areas as “dangerous” (because some parts are perfectly nice) but these neighborhoods don’t offer much in terms of tourist sights anyways so there isn’t much reason to go/stay there.

Gare du Nord and Gare de l’Est Area

The area around the Gare du Nord Gare de l’Est train stations aren’t the best parts of Paris so they feel a bit dodgy—train stations always tend to attract scammers and sketchy people.

These neighborhoods aren’t particularly pretty, and while they’re pretty safe during the day since there are thousands of people rushing around, some visitors report feeling somewhat uneasy walking around at night when things get quiet.

Northern 18th and 19th Districts of Paris

The 18th Arrondissement is home to the beautiful Montmartre neighborhood but the northern portion of the 18th can get a little sketchy. Much of the 19th Arrondissement (specifically around the Barbès–Rochechouart/Stalingrad/Jaures metro stations, Porte de la Chapelle, Marx Dormoy, La Chappelle, Porte de Clignancourt, and Porte de la Villette) can also feel unwelcoming to visitors—some pockets are perfectly fine but the area doesn’t feel like “classic Paris” so I wouldn’t recommend staying there anyways.

Suburbs Outside Central Paris

People visiting Paris rarely visit the Parisian suburbs located directly outside the city but two popular destinations are St. Ouen (famous for its St. Ouen Flea Market) and Saint-Denis (notable for its Basilica of Saint-Denis). The areas surrounding both areas can be a bit dodgy.

If safety is of high concern, I recommend staying as close to the center of Paris as possible. Most consider Notre Dame Cathedral to be the “center” of Paris so anywhere around there is going to be safe. All the areas in green are generally full of life so there are always people out and about—which adds to the safety.

Most of the areas outside the green are also very safe but they’re often a bit quieter and residential so they might not always have that “classic Paris” vibe.

The Best Neighborhoods In Paris

I’ve written an in-depth guide about the best neighborhoods in Paris but below are my top picks:

• THE MARAIS (3RD/4TH): The Marais is cool, trendy, chic, full of energy, and the location is great. It’s full of bars, restaurants, bakeries, and cafes. It has a ton of great shopping and boutiques. It also has a handful of excellent museums. It truly has something for everybody.
• THE LATIN QUARTER (5TH): The Latin Quarter, along with its slightly trendier/upscale neighbor St. Germain, are undoubtedly classic Paris. It has grand boulevards, tiny streets that date back to nearly 1000 years, cafes, restaurants, shopping, bars… you get the idea.
• SAINT-GERMAIN-DES-PRÉS (6TH): St. Germain is classic Paris. It’s also famous for its classic Parisian cafes that were frequented by literary icons like Hemingway. It’s undoubtedly a beautiful part of Paris and its location is unbeatable.

Let’s take a look at some of the most common scams that thieves use to rip off tourists visiting Paris. You can read more about all the common methods used by thieves in my Guide To Tourist Scams in Europe .

Charity Petition Scam

The most prevalent scam in Paris is the charity petition scam. This scam involves groups of young women who approach you with a clipboard and ask you to sign a petition. Then they’ll ask for a donation to their cause/charity.

But there is no charity. All the money collected is given to criminal gangs who bring more young girls from Eastern Europe to Paris to collect more money. Here’s a France 24 article about the whole criminal process.

And, oftentimes, these girls will try pickpocketing you while you’re signing the petition.

You’ll find these scammers in every tourist-heavy part of Paris.

String Bracelet Scam

You might be approached by a group of men who grab your wrist and tie a string “friendship bracelet” around your wrist or finger—then they demand €5-€10 as payment. This puts you in an awkward position since you’re literally connected to the scammer.

This is very common near the Sacré-Cœur but you’ll find them at other places in Paris as well.

It’s best to ignore them and keep walking.

You’re always in a vulnerable position when getting money out of an ATM. One common scam tactic involves a group of people (usually children) who wait until you’ve entered your ATM code and then they rush up and distract you while another person grabs your cash.

It’s best to use an ATM that’s indoors where possible or visit the ATM with another person who can watch your back.

Map Distraction

In general, anytime someone shoves a map (or any piece of paper) in your face, they’re probably trying to pickpocket you.

The Paris Metro is generally very safe and physical assaults are rare. Plus, police presence was stepped up considerably after the terror attacks a few years ago and tons of people ride the metro so there are always people around.

But petty crimes like pickpocketing and phone/bag snatching are relatively common.

How To Avoid Theft On The Paris Metro

Pickpockets target metro stops near popular tourist sights and the train that goes from the airport into the city. Pickpocketing is also more prevalent during rush hour when people pack onto the trains.

A zippered purse is a good deterrent as this will make most thieves move on to an easier victim. But it’s even better to find a bag that also has internal pockets with zippers as an extra line of defense. You’ll also want to wear your bag on your front.

For guys, it’s recommended that you put your wallet in your front pocket. It’s a good idea to buy a very slim wallet that only holds a couple of cards and some cash since carrying a bulky wallet in your front pocket isn’t comfortable.

Next, if possible, avoid standing/sitting next to the door as many thieves will grab your phone/bag right as the metro doors are closing so you can’t chase them—this is how most phones on the metro are stolen.

Paris is a safe city for solo women travelers, but as with any big city, there are always a few precautions you should follow:

• Street harassment is not uncommon so some women report everything from unwanted yet harmless flirting to persistent harassment—especially when you’re alone at night. Ignoring them will ward off a majority of men but don’t be afraid to pop into a bar or restaurant if you’re feeling unsafe.
• Simply acting as you belong and walking with purpose will cut down on a good amount of unwanted attention. While not always easy, it’s helpful if you actually have an idea of how to get to where you’re going so you’re not looking at Google Maps every 2 minutes.
• In some cases, making eye contact and/or smiling at someone can be interpreted as an invitation to chat.
• All solo travelers should take extra precautions when using the ATM. I recommend only using indoor ATMs at a bank branch and doing it during business hours—this will cut down on any theft attempts.
• Many female travelers opt for staying in hostels while traveling as this gives you a built-in group of people you can go out with if you like—check out my guide to the best hostels in Paris .
• Taking a free walking tour is a good way to explore a city solo while also being part of a larger group. You might even meet people to hang out with.
• Carry a bag/purse with zippers. Ideally, your bag will also have internal zippered pockets where you can keep your wallet, phone, and other valuables. Pacsafe makes some fashionable bags with built-in anti-theft features.
• I highly recommend having fast, reliable high-speed mobile data for your phone—which means getting a European SIM card (your domestic plan might work in France but it will be slow). I’ve used SIM Options in the past but you can read more in my guide on How To Buy SIM Cards in Europe .

Paris is a safe city for solo travelers so if you stick to central Paris it’s very unlikely you’ll experience any kind of issues.

Here are a few of my top travel tips for visiting Paris alone:

• Fast and reliable high-speed mobile data is a must-have for any solo traveler—which means getting a European SIM card (your domestic plan might work in France but it will be slow). I recommend buying from SIM Options but you can read more in my guide on How To Buy SIM Cards in Europe .
• Avoid using outdoor ATMs alone. Most banks have indoor ATMs that are much safer for solo travelers.
• On this note, it’s smart to have an idea of how to get to where you’re going so before heading out it helps to familiarize yourself with the general directions.
• Staying in a hostel is a great way to travel alone since it gives you an instant friend group. You’ll often find other solo travelers who are eager to hang out—check out my guide to the best hostels in Paris .
• Taking one of the many free Paris walking tours is a good way to explore a city solo while also being part of a larger group.
• Don’t keep all your credit cards, debit cards, and cash together in the space place because if they’re stolen then you’re totally out of luck. So always keep your various forms of money spread out across multiple spots.

Most of central Paris is perfectly safe at night—especially in the bustling nightlife parts of the city that are always filled with people. Furthermore, if you visit in the summer, you’ll quickly notice how it doesn’t get dark until around 10:30 so it barely feels like “night” at 11 pm.

A few quieter neighborhoods will empty out at night so you might feel a bit uneasy where no one else is around.

As outlined earlier in this article, there are a few neighborhoods that aren’t the best at night like areas around Gade du Nord and Gare de l’Est (but the areas around all train stations tend to be sketchy).

Sections of the Northern and North-Eastern parts of Paris aren’t the best places to hang around after dark.

The Pigalle neighborhood around the Moulin Rouge is the city’s Red Light district so it feels seedy because of the adult entertainment venues but it’s generally a safe neighborhood. It’s also being taken over by hipsters so there are some cool non-adult nightlife options.

Here’s a big list of random helpful tips to help keep you safe in Paris.

Get a European SIM Card For High-Speed Data

Having fast, reliable high-speed data for your phone can get you out of a jam quickly. It’s highly recommended that you buy a European SIM card instead of relying on your domestic plan’s international service (which will be slow) or trying to find free wifi.

I recommend pre-purchasing a SIM card (I used SIM Options on my last trip to Europe) so you don’t have to deal with finding a mobile phone store in Paris. I also suggest reading more about SIM Cards/Data Plans in my guide on How To Buy SIM Cards in Europe .

Consider Buying An Anti-Theft Bag

There are a number of backpacks, bags, and purses on the market with anti-theft features like extra lockable zippered pockets, internal anti-slash mesh wire, and RFID shielding. These features come in very handy and add a lot of peace of mind while traveling.

I recommend checking out Pacsafe because many of their bags are nice-looking (but a bit expensive).

Create A Plan For Your Visit To Paris

Having an idea of what you want to see, do, and eat in Paris will help give you more confidence—and thus make you less of a target for thieves. Check out my Paris Travel Guide to learn more of the ins and outs of visiting Paris. Also, check out my guide to the best things to do in Paris to see everything this amazing city has to offer.

Don’t Show Off Flashy Watches & Jewelry

Paris has been hit with a string of assaults/robberies by thieves who’ve been targeting people wearing expensive watches and jewelry.

Avoid Political Protests

Paris is no stranger to political protests. And while most are peaceful, it’s best to avoid them just in case things turn violent.

Pack Light To Become Less Of A Target

Anyone carrying around a suitcase or travel backpack becomes more of a target to thieves. But anyone lugging around a massive suitcase or huge travel backpack is automatically seen as a bumbling, clueless tourist just waiting to get ripped off. That’s why packing as light as possible is a smart move. Check out my Travel Europe Packing List for Women for female-specific packing advice. You can also read my guide to the Best Travel Backpacks for Women and my article on the Best Travel Shoes For Women .

Buy Travel Insurance

Getting injured abroad or having to visit a foreign hospital because of an illness can lead to huge medical bills and there is a good chance your normal health insurance won’t cover much (or anything)—that’s why travel insurance is highly suggested. I recommend World Nomads since they’re affordable and they offer a solid amount of coverage.

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How to Avoid Common Tourist Paris Scams & Pickpockets

By: Author Sophie Nadeau

Posted on Last updated: 26th June 2023

Categories Paris , Travel Tips

Last Updated on 26th June 2023 by Sophie Nadeau

Paris is easily one of my favourite destinations in the world and I have spent over half of my adult life living in the city. However, before you visit the French capital city, it’s important to know about the most common Paris scams (including how to avoid pickpockets) that you’ll likely encounter, especially so if it’s your first visit and you’re a tourist in the City of Light .

Included in this roundup are the ring scam, the cup & ball scam, fake petitions, and more tips, tricks, and practical advice for avoiding tourist scams and Paris pickpockets. If you need more information about phone theft, I’ve written a whole guide on the best techniques to avoid phone theft in Paris .

Of course, while fear of travel and these Parisian scams should by no means put you off visiting, it’s important to bear them in mind when visiting so that you don’t fall prey to some of the most common Parisian tourist scams.

Before we delve into the article, some top Paris tips I would give you would be to dress to blend in and walk with purpose wherever you’re going, even if you feel a little lost!

As when travelling anywhere, be sure to bring multiple forms of payment and keep them in different places (for example, keep €50 or €100 in your main luggage) .

You should know about these tourist scams as, after all, it’s important to remember that there are people willing to take advantage of the fact that you don’t know the city all that well, and that you’re most likely an honest person!

People offering to ‘help’ you purchase metro tickets

Paris fake taxi scams, official paris taxis overcharging, the fake petition scam, gold (or silver) ring scam, the string trick paris scam  , cup and ball scam, how to avoid paris pickpockets, people offering to paint your portrait in montmartre, the ‘free’ rose scam, enjoyed reading about the most common paris scams (and how to avoid scams and paris pickpockets as a tourist) pin this article now, read it again later:.

Commonly practised in Gare du Nord and other major Paris train stations

How it works: You’ve just stepped off a long flight to Paris, caught the RER B and you’ve finally made it to central Paris. Now what? Well, you’ll probably be heading to the metro station to purchase metro tickets.

When you’re finally at the ticket machine, someone in normal clothing (i.e. and ‘unofficial’ metro helper) will approach you and offer to ‘help’ you buy tickets. These people are usually scammers and what they’ll do is simply purchase a child’s single fare when offering to help you buy a ‘carnet’ (10 metro tickets) and pocket the rest of your money.

How to avoid the Paris metro scam: The easiest way to avoid this Parisian tourist scam is simply to decline any offer for help. Only purchase your metro tickets at valid machines (you can operate these in several languages, including English) or at a proper kiosk/ ticket desk. For more information on tickets, check out my complete guide to Paris metro tickets .

Commonly practised around the Parisian airports and main central train stations

How the Paris taxi scam works : Thankfully, there aren’t too many fake taxis on the streets of Paris . However, there are still a few and so you should always be aware when hailing a cab.

Official taxis will be in the proper taxi bay and will not try to approach you for business. Other warning signs to look out for include no taxi sign, no taxi meter, and no Eftpos machine.

How to avoid fake taxis in Paris: It’s easy enough to avoid fake taxis by taking several precautions. Firstly, it’s worth noting that, more often than not, the easiest and fastest way around the city is to take a metro or the bus. If you do want to hail a taxi, then Uber is available.

However, I would not recommend taking an Uber to and from the airport as there are official rates that licensed Paris taxi drivers have to abide by (but more on this below as a legitimate ‘registered’ taxi driver has tried to scam me previously) .

One time I took an Uber to the airport and due to traffic it cost me much more than a taxi would have done. The official rates are Paris-Charles de Gaulle airport and Paris “right bank”: €50 and Paris-Charles de Gaulle airport and Paris “left bank”: €55.

Commonly practised to/ from Paris airports

As stated above, you should take an official taxi from a taxi rank at the airport. With this being said, you also need to watch out for the legitimate taxis, which may try and overcharge you (even though this is against the rules).

There are set fares to/ from each airport and the centre of Paris. There’s a different rate for the left/ right bank of the Seine. Recently a tax driver I had hailed from the official taxi rank at the airport tried to charge me for the right bank even though I was dropped off at the left bank (which is cheaper).

I firmly told the taxi driver that that €37 was the incorrect amount and to instead charge me the official rate of €32. He then tried to charge me €33. By this point I had texted my boyfriend to come downstairs from our flat and come and get me.

As soon as the taxi driver realised that there was someone waiting outside of the taxi for me, he started apologising loads and making “jokes” that I knew the fares better than him. It really left a bitter taste in my mouth as I had done everything correctly (by taking an official taxi) and yet a legitimate taxi driver tried to scam me!

Commonly practised around Notre-Dame and Île de la Cité

How it works: Usually an adolescent, child or young woman will approach you asking you to sign a petition. The paper will already have signatures on it and be for a seemingly good cause, although it is actually a fake. Once you’ve signed the piece of paper, the scammer will demand a considerable money from you- none of which will actually go to charity .

How to avoid this scam: Just say no, don’t sign any petitions and walk away if they persist. Once I was in the line waiting for a Parisian attraction when I was approached. All I did was politely say no and the petitioners soon moved on to speak to other people.

Commonly practised around the bridges along the Seine, where you’ll find the Paris Bouquinistes

How it works: A man or woman will have left a ring on the sidewalk and be waiting around the corner. Once you’ve picked up the ‘ valuable ‘ ring, they’ll appear. They’ll say that you can keep the ring ‘ for good luck ‘ and demand money from you in return.

The ring is fake. I have to admit, the first time a lady approached my ex-boyfriend when I arrived in Paris at 18, I’d never even heard of this trick and it seemed weird but it didn’t even occur to us that it was a scam. Obviously, we didn’t hand over any money but the ring will even be  ‘stamped’  with a gold mark-  as fake as the gold ring itself.  So bear this in mind.

How to avoid: this scam Just say no and walk away. Note: This scam doesn’t necessarily have to involve a ring and can include other valuable looking items such as jewellery pieces. However, the most commonly used prop is certainly a gold band wedding ring!

Commonly practised around Montmartre and the steps of the Sacré-Coeur

How it works: A group of men and women will be standing in a group. They will offer you a friendship bracelet, seemingly out of generosity. Once you’ve got the bracelet tightly fastened to your wrist, they’ll only let you go once you’ve paid them a certain ‘ fee ‘.

More often than not, they won’t even offer you a bracelet but try to tie a piece of string around your hand or finger. This one scares me the most as someone has literally grabbed my arm before; there were few people around at the time and so I just shouted at him until he let go of me.

How to avoid the string bracelet scam: Just say no firmly and walk away quickly.

Commonly practised around Montmartre and Trocadéro

How the cup and ball Paris scam works:  This is one of those Paris scams aimed at tourists in which is you are genuinely led to believe that you have a chance of winning some big money. Basically, there will be a man or a woman with a little mat, a ball, and three cups.

They’ll place the ball under one of the cups and mix the three up. The way you ‘ win ‘ money is by guessing which ball the cup is under. Bets can go as high as €50 and you’ll be offered the chance to win double your money if you correctly guess which cup the ball sits under.

The cup and ball trick? The game master will have accomplices posing as tourists in the crowd. These people will be allowed to win a number of times (by guessing the correct cup the ball is under). However, when actual tourists start playing, they’ll never win and lose their money.

How to avoid this scam: Just avoid playing the ‘game’. Like many of the other deceits and Paris tourist scams, the best way of avoiding losing money or valuables is just to say no and simply walk away! Don’t be tempted as this is a scam and is a surefire way for you to lost money.

Paris Pickpockets & leaving your valuables in plain sight/ leaving your bag open

Okay, so this final point isn’t necessarily one of the ‘Parisian tourist scams you should try and avoid’ but being aware of pickpockets is a good point to bear in mind, nonetheless. My number one tip would be to not flash your valuables in plain sight as this will only mark you out as an easy target.

I personally love these backpacks , but always wear them over my shoulder so that I can see my bag and its zips at all times! Alternatively, a crossbody bag is a great option for your Paris trip. I personally use a crossbody bag by this brand and love its shape, size, and versatility.

Always make sure that your bags are well fastened/ secured. If you’re travelling with a handbag, then make it a cross-body one. Make sure your bag has a zipper and walk along while holding the fastened bag. Crossbody bags are not only stylish but they also allow for you to keep an eye on your belongings at all times.

Your best bet for avoiding Paris pickpockets is to not even open your bag in crowded places, like the Paris metro. If you’re simply carrying a wallet, then don’t leave it in your back pocket.

Pickpockets in Paris often work in groups so be sure to be extra aware if someone stops to block your path, even if they’re seemingly doing something innocuous like tying a shoelace.

Often, you won’t even realize you’ve been pickpocketed until sometime later. Normally the ‘pickpocketing’ part itself actually happens when someone ‘ accidentally bumps ‘ against you in a rush for catching the metro or trying to pass down a busy street.

This seemingly innocent distraction is actually the thief distracting you while simultaneously robbing you of your valuable possessions. More commonly, thieves will quite literally steal your smartphone from your hands and run off, so be sure to keep an eye on your phone at all times as well!

Commonly practised around Place du Tertre

One of the things that Montmartre is best-known for is its artists working en plein air, most notably around Place du Tertre, a pleasant square with views of the top of the Sacré Coeur that is surrounded by eateries.

While wandering around Montmartre you’ll probably be approached by people offering to ‘paint your portrait’. If you say yes, then you will be charged a hefty amount as the artists who are not stationary (istting on Place du Tertre) are not regulated.

On Place du Tertre itself, there are small markings on the ground, around the central café terraces which dictate the 1 metre squared section that artists are allowed to work from.

It’s technically illegal for artists to work outside of this space in Montmartre, and artists caught doing so can face a fine. With this being said, almost every time I head to Montmartre, people approach me as I’m walking around asking if they can ‘paint my portrait’  (and they can truly be quite persistent)  so I have no idea how strictly this is enforced.

Commonly practised in tourist restaurants and on terraces outside bistros across the city

How the Paris rose scam works: Typically, you’ll be sat with your partner enjoying a wonderful meal in a French restaurant when someone will approach you offering you a ‘rose’.

This can also happen when you’re wandering through the more touristic parts of town (i.e. in Le Marais and in the Latin Quarter). As soon as you’ve accepted this seemingly ‘free’ gift, you’ll be asked for money.

How to avoid this scam:   Of all the Paris scams, this is one of the easiest to avoid. Simply decline the offer and walk away (or stay seated if you’re at a restaurant) . The rose sellers are used to people declining their offer and will typically leave after a firm ‘non’.

Sophie Nadeau loves dogs, books, travel, pizza, and history. A Francophile at heart, she runs solosophie.com when she’s not chasing after the next sunset shot or consuming something sweet. She splits her time between Paris and London and travels as much as she can! Subscribe to Sophie’s YouTube Channel.

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Thursday 8th of September 2016

How universal are these scams?! I have encountered a few during my travel in Asia too.

Finding the Universe

Travel tales, photography and a dash of humor

Common Paris Scams – How To Recognise and Avoid Scams in Paris

Last updated: June 24, 2023 . Written by Laurence Norah - 19 Comments

Paris is one of our favourite cities to visit, but it does have a bit of a reputation as having a number of common scams. In this post, we’re going to go through a number of common Paris scams so you can enjoy your time in the city, and not worry about falling prey to a scammer.

With a bit of preparation and foreknowledge, you’ll be well prepared to deal with the common scams in Paris, and focus on enjoying your visit to Paris, perhaps following one of our Paris itineraries, like this guide to spending  2 days in Paris .

We’ve actually seen quite a few scams happening right in front us in Paris. This have given us a first-hand impression on how these scams are pulled off.

It’s worth mentioning that the majority of the scams in Paris won’t result in you losing a lot of money. The damage is usually that you feel bad, to a point that it significantly overshadows your trip. It changes your perception of the destination and of the people there. Don’t let it.

Seriously, all you can ever do is read up on the scams on a destination so you know what to watch out for. Being prepared is key. You might think you wouldn’t fall for these tricks, or you just wouldn’t give the scammers any money, but don’t be so sure. Scammers are not sleazy, dodgy people. The ability of the scammer to make a genuine and trust-worthy impression on you is probably his or her most important capability when pulling off a scam. That’s why even experienced travellers are not immune.

Here are four of Paris’ most common scams, that we’ve seen executed right in front of us. One would definitely have gotten us had we not read about it!

Common Paris Scams

1. the friendship bracelets of sacre coeur.

Sacre Coeur is a beautiful basilica on the top of Montmartre. On the stairs leading up the hill, many vendors try their luck and offer cold bottled water, or all kinds of souvenirs, laid out on blankets that can be lifted up and put away in a few seconds when security approaches.

And then there are these other guys. They are all smiley and seem really nice. They walk towards you, stretching out their hand, almost like they are about to congratulate you for something. It is a bit confusing, but okay, if it makes them happy, why not shake their hand? It’s not like you can’t walk away after that, right?

Wrong. Because they very quickly tie a few strings around your finger once they’ve got hold of your hand, and start braiding a little friend-ship bracelet, chatting away, and hinting at a compensation for their efforts.

It would have worked with me, because I would have shaken one of the guy’s hands, just to be friendly, and then I would have given him a Euro or something because it’s easier than picking a fight. Don’t fall for it though. You don’t have to give anyone any money for an unsolicited product, so just walk away.

Tip: Put your hands in your pocket when these guys approach you.

2. The golden ring along the banks of the river Seine

We were walking along the Seine, on our to see an exhibition. In front of us were three people, one woman and two guys, engaged in a conversation, wandering along. They looked totally casual and harmless, but every now and again, one of them would separate from the others, checking the ground, bend down and eventually go back to his/her friends.

That reminded me of the ring scam, and indeed, it didn’t take long until an elderly couple examining a map were approached. I just saw them shaking their heads when the woman showed them something (for it was her who had approached them) and so she went away again.

But this is how it goes. You walk along, minding your own business, when someone near you suddenly bends down to pick something up. Then they come over and say something like: “I just found this golden ring – did you lose it by any chance?”. Chances are you say no. They will then tell you that the ring looks genuine and give you a reason why they cannot keep it, but they offer it to you. Once you have agreed to take it, they ask for a little compensation. The ring is of course worth nothing.

Tip: It’s sufficient to just firmly say “No!”, but if you can pull it of, you can of course also act very pleasantly surprised: “Oh my gosh, thank you so much! That’s my grandmother’s wedding band she gave to me just before she passed away; I would have been so sad to lose it! Thank you, thank you, thank you!” – and walk away with it.

3. The cup and ball scam at the Champs-de-Mars park behind the Eiffel Tower

Well, I’m sure you know this one, but it obviously works, because they are still doing it! There’s a guy with a little table, or a rug on the floor, and on it are three upside down cups, and a ball. He puts the ball under one of the cups and then moves them around quickly. When he stops you have to guess under which cup the ball is.

Of course there is money involved. You can bet on finding the ball, and if you’re right, you’ll get double your money back.

This scam works because au contraire to what you see, the cup-and-ball guy is not by himself. The people gathering around him watching the spectacle are partly made up by his accomplices. One of them will pretend to try to play the game. You just stand there because it’s fun to watch. But then this stupid guy loses his money because he never gets it right, although it is completely obvious to you where the freaking ball is.

Reassured that this is a piece of cake, you step forward to win some money, only to suddenly have the cup-and-ball guy move the cups in a speed that is impossible to keep up with. And now you have lost your money, too.

I would not fall for this one, because I have seen it a million times. However, this was the first time I concentrated on the crowd around this guy, wondering which of these people were in on the scam and which weren’t.

Ten minutes later, I saw the whole group behind a bush, planning their next show, I guess. Maybe six people, quite mixed. Impossible to tell apart from regular spectators, especially if you haven’t watched any “Sherlock Holmes” yet.

Tip: Just don’t get tricked into playing, but also bear in mind that watching the cup-and-ball game might in addition serve as a distraction while you’re being pick-pocketed.

4. The activists at the Tuileries Garden

Ah, yes, that one happened to me in Brussels. I saw a group of women walking around with clip boards, trying to get a petition signed. I totally dig petitions, and it was something about education for young girls in who-knows-where, so yeah, I signed it. But that wasn’t it. The woman who had approached me went on to say that now I had to donate, and an amount of 20 Euros would probably be good.

This is the moment when every one reading this thinks “Just walk away”, but I didn’t. I was taken by surprise by this follow-up donation demand, and then I felt like a hypocrite for willingly signing something but not going through with the ‘good deed’ as soon as money was involved. So, I gave her money (at least not 20 Euros), because I felt so uncomfortable about the whole situation and just wanted to get away.

Tip: Just firmly say no, or ignore them completely.

So these were four of the common Paris scams to watch out for. If you google this topic, you will find that I have not even covered the tip of the iceberg. Do yourself a favour and read up on scams before you travel to Paris, or, as a matter, anywhere else ( wikivoyage’s Stay Safe section is always a good start!). While researching, be prepared that some people will paint a very dark picture of the destination, because they let a scam poison their whole holiday.

It is very hard not to get emotional when you get scammed, but I’ll say it again: don’t let it get to you. It’s not your fault. It happens to everyone. It does not mean that the destination where it happens is bad; it does not mean the people who live at the destination where it happened are bad. It does not mean that you’re an idiot. It just means you have met someone who has gone down an incredibly low road in order to get a few bucks.

Remember: scammers are just people. They do not have the power to ruin your holiday, so never let them.

Further Reading for Visiting Paris

We’ve written a fair amount about Paris to help you plan your trip beyond avoiding the common scams! Here are some posts and other resources you might find useful:

• To help you plan your Paris adventure we have a 2 Day Paris Itinerary as well as a 3 Day Paris Itinerary . We also have a guide to spending a day in Paris , if you’re on a really tight schedule and just want to focus on the highlights
• We have a full guide to how to get around Paris , which should help you plan your transport in the city
• We have a detailed guide to attending the famous Moulin Rouge show in Paris
• Our guide to the Best Photography Locations in Paris
• A Paris Photo Essay , to inspire your visit
• A full review of the Paris Pass , to help you save money on your visit, as well as a review of the Paris Museum Pass
• A guide to the best afternoon tea in Paris  and the best lunchtime restaurant deals in Paris
• A guide to choosing the best Seine Boat River tour as well as our pick of the best Seine River dinner cruises
• And finally, if you need a guidebook, we highly recommend the Rick Steves Paris guide !

Thanks for reading and safe travels!

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There are 19 comments on this post

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Cerasela Giles says

7th August 2023 at 7:19 pm

First day in Paris and went to visit the Eiffel Tower. Just arrived at the Eiffel Tower and my daughter was scammed 300 euros by Romanian gypsies with the one ball 3 cup scam. This was our travel money for our 3 day stay in Paris and this left us destitute, totally ruined our holiday and caused a big rift between my daughter and I. I am not sure why these scammers are allowed around the Effiel Tower to scam innocent tourists??? These scammers need to be JAILED.

Laurence Norah says

7th August 2023 at 10:28 pm

HI Cerasela,

Sorry to hear about your daughters experience. Unfortunately the cup and ball scam is quite prevalent in Paris, as well as other cities around Europe. It’s really a shame that not more is done about it. We have seen people arrested for doing it in London, where it is less commonly seen. Hopefully your experience serves to warn others as to the dangers of this sort of scam.

8th August 2023 at 4:42 pm

Thank you Laurence.

Kind Regards Cerasela

22nd January 2021 at 2:31 am

This garbage everywhere, unfortunately.

22nd January 2021 at 6:41 pm

This is true, it’s an unfortunate side effect of popular tourist destinations in particular. Thankfully they are not hard to avoid if you know what to look for and keep your wits about you!

7th May 2019 at 11:34 am

Hello, thanks for this post i wish i had seen it befor i went to paris , i was scamed by some womens who pretend charity, soo ye after i sign she said i has to donate so:/ 20 euro is not much money, but what concer me, do this women can do something more with my signature, that would be give me more trouble ??

7th May 2019 at 5:20 pm

Sorry to hear this, but thankfully €20 is not too great a sum. I would not worry about your signature, we fell prey to one of these things when visiting Paris, and nothing else ever happened!

Blessie Payumo says

2nd January 2019 at 6:13 pm

Can we avail a Paris Pass upon arrival in Paris? And if it is available in airport?

2nd January 2019 at 6:26 pm

Hi Blessie,

You can buy a Paris Pass in person at one place in Paris, the Big Bus Ticket Shop located at 11 Avenue de L’Opera, 75001 Paris. The office is open 7 days a week from 9:30am (09:30) to 6:30pm (18.30). So you know, any discounts offered online will not apply to in-person purchases.

We have a full guide to the Paris Pass here: https://independenttravelcats.com/buying-paris-pass-review-worth-it-tips/

I hope this helps!

Blessie says

3rd January 2019 at 3:22 pm

Thanks. It will help a lot as Paris is our First point of entry in our Europe travel.

1st September 2018 at 10:08 am

The exact same thing happend to me! (Number 4). At first I was willing to give her few coins but she wasnt intrigued so I asked her to get my change back and i will give her a bank note that I had in my wallet, when i got the money back I said I changed my mind and tried to get rid of her, somehow it worked and she left. So the point of the story is that its never to late to back off, it is hard but you can do it.

1st September 2018 at 10:54 am

Pleased to hear you got your money back!

5th March 2018 at 4:28 pm

I have a picture of one of them

Can the police help you in the event of being scammed out of money

5th March 2018 at 5:54 pm

Sorry to hear you have been affected by one of these scams. I hope it was not too much money, and I hope it does not spoil your trip too much. I would definitely advise contacting the police. They might be able to help, and it certainly won’t hurt, but it will of course depend on the nature of the scam.

23rd April 2017 at 6:24 pm

I wish I’d read this post yesterday at least. We’re on our honeymoon in Paris, and two of these scams happened to us, next to Sacre-Cour.

On our way up a few African men approached us both, shook hands, started friendly chit chat, offered a gift – a few colored threads on our fingers – and then asked for money. I put my hand in my pocket for change, then they became menacing, asking for paper money, saying they’ll give back change. They took a 10, and then asked for more, for my wife. They wouldn’t let us go without paying.

On our way back to the bus stop, I noticed the cup game. I should have known it’s a scam, but the gambler in me took over, and I thought I seem to be good at this. What happened next played out exactly like mentioned by others here. In fact when I offered 50, the woman who had just lost said I should bet another 50. I decided against it to be safe, but I had taken my eyes off the cups enough for the guy to make the switch. Sort of spoilt my day, but thanks to my wife and a visit to Shakespeare and Company, I think I’ll get over these petty losses.

Laurence says

23rd April 2017 at 6:30 pm

Hey Arnit, sorry to hear about your experience. Try not to let it get to you or spoil your trip – I’ve been travelling a long time and still get caught out by these things, from rotten taxi drivers to pushy salesmen. You’ve got to just remember that there are more good people in the world than bad, and remember travel is a more positive experience than negative. Sounds like you’re already making that decision 😀 Happy travels! ⁣Sent from my mobile device. ​

Dutchess says

29th May 2016 at 4:02 am

I had the same thing happen in Barcelona. I needed to go to my hotel close to the airport and all the taxi drivers refused to take me because it was too close (they wanted the expensive fare into the city center). Finally I told one that I would pay his exorbitant extra cost and did the same thing. Got all my stuff out of the trunk then paid him exactly what was on the meter, which is all he’s allowed to charge by law. He was SO ANGRY. I said if you are mad we can go inside and call the police to resolve this. He cursed me out and drove away. Felt so good.

Piotr Kulczycki says

27th October 2015 at 7:56 pm

That was really an interesting read!

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How to Avoid Tourist Traps & Scams in Paris: Our Top Tips

Last Updated on December 6, 2023

As one of the world’s most-visited cities, Paris relies on tourism to thrive economically. While that’s generally a mutually beneficial thing, it has its downsides. For one thing, certain areas can seem devoid of “authenticity” and more akin to a sort of cultural Disneyland.

Visitors yearning to encounter the capital in a halfway-genuine way may feel frustrated by a sense that they can’t find the “real deal” if they spend too much time in these places.

In turn, locals often believe their city is performing a fantasized, outdated version of itself that tourists want to see, preventing Paris from evolving for the 21st century.

Whether or not you agree with these observations, tourist traps and street scams in Paris are common.

I personally think it’s best to mostly avoid them if you want to fully enjoy the city– and keep from becoming an unwitting vicitim. Here are 6 ways to steer clear– and my tips for how to spot typical traps and scams in advance.

Please note: for specific advice on avoiding pickpockets, ATM thefts and related crimes, see my guide to how to stay safe in the capital.

Explore This Article

1. Avoid the lure of sidewalk peddlers and “criers”.

You may feel a stab of sympathy for someone if they’re urging you to come inside their shop or restaurant from the sidewalk, but you’d likely be better off swallowing your bleeding heart and moving on.

If a place is worth visiting or eating at, owners don’t generally have to beg for business– and this is a common practice on “tourist-trap streets” (see below for more on how to spot these).

{Related: Avoid These Major Mistakes When Planning Your Trip to France}

In all but one or two cases, the food or service in question has been mediocre (at best) when I’ve given in to pleas from sidewalk-pushers. At the worst, whatever they’re selling is stale or below-standard– and usually overpriced to boot.

The one instance where this advice doesn’t apply? When you’re visiting an open-air market such as the lovely Marché d’Aligre . It’s perfectly normal at traditional markets like these for vendors to call out with singsong cries: “ Tomates, tous juteux! (juicy tomatoes!)” “ Ananas frais, 1 Euro ! (Fresh pineapple, only 1 Euro!)” Here, I fully encourage you to take part in the cultural experience. The advertised deals are often as good as promised, too.

2. Don’t let anyone approach you with shiny trinkets or make bodily contact with you.

If anyone comes up to you offering jewelry, souvenirs or other objects and especially if they attempt to touch you in any way, avoid eye contact, say “no” in a firm tone and walk away.

Read related: Yes, It’s Still Safe to Visit Paris. Here’s How to Stay Secure.

3. Learn how to identify lousy food and mediocre restaurants.

In a place like Paris, you’ll probably agree, it’s semi-tragic to feast on bad food . Yet you’d be surprised to learn how many visitors leave wondering where they went wrong– and feeling as if pretty much all their meals were mediocre.

They see prominent signs for an “authentic” three-course French meal complete with wine for only 18 Euros outside, and they’re sold.

The trouble is that with some rare exceptions, these sorts of promises of authenticity point to just the opposite. This is particularly true in areas that tourists flock to (Latin Quarter, Montmartre, places around the Eiffel Tower or Notre Dame, etc).

My big takeaway? If if you see signs outside a restaurant that loudly proclaim to have the best “x” in town– crepes, oysters, foie gras, steak-frites, you name it– look elsewhere .

Especially if there’s a cardboard-cutout of a pig wearing a chef hat, or even of a human chef with a handlebar moustache and a big grin, propped outside the door. Turn on your heels immediately, in that case. I’m only halfway-joking, here…

What About Street Food Vendors?

When evaluating whether street food from a particular vendor in Paris is any good, I generally tell visitors to ask the following three questions:

• Do the ingredients look fresh, or like they’ve been sitting there for a while? Remember, you really don’t want to be hit with a bout of salmonella from salad greens that haven’t been stored or washed properly.
• Is your sandwich/crepe/falafel etc. being made-to-order, or is it pre-prepared? For crepes, always choose a stand where the crepe itself is prepared in front of your eyes, from fresh batter. For sandwiches, avoid pre-prepared ones from street vendors. Those made at decent bakeries are often fine, however.
• Is the vendor in question located in the shadow of a big-ticket tourist attraction? If so, check reviews and prices. Chances are you’d be better off finding lunch on a nearby side street. It’s likely to be both cheaper and tastier.

I know how hard it can be to evaluate restaurants and food stands in a place with as many options as Paris. On a final note, I recommend sites such as Paris by Mouth and TripAdvisor for reliable, objective reviews of any place you may considering.

Also see my guides to the best street food in Paris and the best creperies in the capital to make sure you beeline to the good stuff.

4. Leave souvenir-shopping to the end of your trip– or the airport.

I don’t mean to be a snob about souvenir shopping. For many tourists, there’s something essential and entertaining about procuring a few pieces of memorabilia, and I entirely respect that.

However, I do think some tourists end up in overpriced, uninspiring souvenir shops simply because they’re not sure where else to look.

“If you’re looking to engage with Parisian history and culture in deeper ways, some careful choices are in order…”

Around major tourist attractions, such as the Rue de Rivoli near the Louvre and the streets around the Sacré Coeur in Montmartre , expensive souvenir shops abound. If these pique your interest and you want to have a browse, by all means do.

Just don’t spend too much of your trip in these sorts of places– that’s my strongest advice. After all, the main Paris airports all have extensive duty-free shops selling the sort of typical fare you see in souvenir shops in town– often at lower prices.

{Related: Our Top Paris Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors}

And if gift-shopping is firmly on your agenda, there are certainly tons of interesting places to look. Maybe your favorite uncle would prefer a miniature Arc de Triomphe suspended in a snow globe.

Go for it, if that’s the case. But your loved ones might also be thrilled with something a bit less expected.

Why not look for an original print of Paris from a flea market or antiquarian art shop? Or hunt for a Belle-Epoque-era brooch in the Marais?

Even big department stores such as Galeries Lafayette can be great places for high-quality, authentically French items such as a chocolate, mustard and wine. You can see my handy guide to finding and choosing more authentic gifts from Paris .  

5. Tell tourist officers & guides you’re after a “deeper” Paris– and learn to seek it everywhere you go.

It’s important for tourists to be clear about what they want when looking for a guided tour or advice from tourist boards. Many assume that visitors are after the “iconic”, post-card pretty version of Paris that tends to get reproduced ad infinitum in brochures and movies.

If you’re looking to engage with Parisian history and culture in deeper ways, some careful choices are in order. First, when you head to the tourist office or buy a guidebook looking for recommendations, let the friendly staff or bookseller know that you’re after something substantial and “atypical”. You may be surprised at how enthusiastically they recommend a quirky book or tour.

Secondly, don’t just embark on any old guided tour. Choose ones reputed for their knowledgeable guides and in-depth coverage on topics that interest you the most.

A three-hour bus tour of the whole city is likely to wax superficial and barely scratch surfaces.

If you’re a literature fan interested in learning about where celebrated writers lived and worked, or a history buff eager to see where the revolutionary barricades went up in Belleville, choose a tour more likely to really satisfy your curiosity.

I have tested– and recommend without reservation– the guided tours from Context Travel , Discover Paris , and Eating Europe.

Finally, remember that Paris has so many dizzying, complex layers of history that you should always be looking for the fine details.

As I try to stress in my guide to what to see in Paris as a first-time visitor , even places like Notre-Dame Cathedral and the Latin Quarter hold plenty of secrets. You can engage more deeply with things no matter where you roam. It just takes a bit of concentration and resolve.

6. Never get in a taxi without an illuminated rooftop and a fare meter.

As I discuss at length in my piece on hailing reputable airport taxis in Paris (and avoiding the bad ones) , there’s one crucial rule to follow.

Never get in a cab that doesn’t clearly have both an illuminated rooftop sign reading “TAXI Parisien”, and a meter inside. If you ignore this advice, unscrupulous companies and drivers may steeply overcharge you, or worse.

Protect your wallet and yourself, and stay away from dubious “taxi” drivers. If you prefer to pre-book a ride, you can reserve a one-way or round-trip fare online with TaxiLeader .

Your Own Tips for Avoiding Tourist Traps in France?

Have I missed something important? If you have your own tips for how to steer clear of traps and scams, I’m sure fellow readers would be thrilled to hear them. Leave your thoughts below!

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.

2 thoughts on “ How to Avoid Tourist Traps & Scams in Paris: Our Top Tips ”

Attempt to or try to speak French where possible. Listen to the way it is pronounced and ask how to pronounce and say things. This goes a long way when you are in France. Smile and be friendly but be aware of your surroundings. Leave a tip if you can (just a little bit) and thank everyone for their hospitality. These are all rules I go by everywhere in the world regardless.

Good Advices. I had heard many such things before my first visit to Paris but Thankfully, I did not experience any of those. Latin quarter is wonderful to stay.

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Paris Tourist Scams: Stay Safe And Secure While Traveling

Since it’s no surprise that Paris, the most visited place around the world, also has many scams that lure its visitors into. The Paris Tourist scams are some popular disadvantages that people experience while in the country. Those who are visiting Paris for the first time may likely get bluffed by any of these scam activities, especially around the popular places in the city. But these scams are not something life-threatening and therefore you need not have to worry much about them. Only good precautions are advised while touring around the places. 

Remember the only best way to avoid such Paris tourist scams is to avoid feeling insecure or scared even by traveling or get easily excited by their kind of generous services. Because this is where we get easily bluffed when we are not secure with ourselves.

Be aware of these Paris Tourist Scams and Pickpocketing 

There are a few common Paris tourist scams and pickpocketing that individuals need to keep in mind while tourism around the city. If it’s your first time you are likely to encounter one of these one way or another since these are very common phenomena to see people trying to lure visitors for money, especially in tourist places. Here are some of these Paris scam alerts to keep in mind:

1. Expert Pickpocketing

It’s a very common thing to experience pickpocketing, especially in a big city like Paris. Since the city receives a lot of visitors throughout the year, this attracts many experts to steal money or valuable items from the tourists. It’s important to keep wallets, purses, and backpacks well protected with you while passing through crowded places.  While taking public transport or at tourist attractions. This is where it tends to circumvent your stuff. You never know where these pickpockets might be lurking around. Keep your belongings close to you. Stay alert and aware while visiting the attraction sites. Since it’s a common thing for individuals to get carried away while admiring the attractions sites. Keep in mind these common Paris tourist scams .

2. Be aware of Paris Taxi Scams

Look out for taxis that are not with proper taxi signs , not taxi meters, or Eftpos machines. These taxis often approach visitors and foreigners on their own for business and try to convince them that they know the places around (whey they are) but the real Paris taxis won’t try to approach your stormy or try to compel you to get in the taxi. The best way to avoid these scams in Paris is to take a metro, public bus, or subway, or simply book an Uber. Moreover. Metro and public buses also tend to be safe and cheap to travel. Unlike Taxis which will cost a higher price. In this way, you won’t have to worry about getting scammed or spending a lot of money on a taxi.

3. Avoid the Gold ring Scam

If you are a big fan of gold or silver don’t get excited about people approaching you with lost and found gold rigs etc and offering to sell it off at a cheap price. They are not real gold or silver rings. They are completely fake and only meant to lure money out of you. This will not come as a surprise to you when you are visiting the city since they teen to be friendly and convincing. 

Or it could be the other way around where you might find the ring or any other valuable item on the ground. As soon as you pick it up the scammer will appear and ask you to take it at a cheap price. The best way to avoid this scam is to simply say no and decline the offer. It’s a waste of your time and worth nothing. The gold ring scam is one of the common Paris tourist scams to keep in mind.

4.  Avoid Friendship Bracelets 

While exploring the city there will be many things that an individual will come across. Such such approach is vendors or sellers approaching you with friendship bracelets or rings. They will friendly convenience to try on yourself and later ask you to pay for it. This is a way they make the tourist fall for it. Since the approach tends to be very tricky and friendly simply avoid interacting with street vendors or sellers. If they insist simply decline the offer and keep walking. Friendship bracelets or rings are one of the common Paris tourist scams that an individual will see while touring the attractions sites or downtown.

5. Avoid signing false Petition 

This is also a common thing that tourists experience while in the city. This type of scam tends to be found in many popular trust places as well. Likely a child or a woman will approach you will a petition to sign for donation. The paper will look authentic with a stamp or signature on it and insist you sing on it. But in return, they will ask for your money as a charity thing to do. It might also seem a humanitarian thing to do by donating but none of the money will actually go to charity. The best way to avoid such scams is to simply say no and decline the offer.

6. Avoid Fraudulent Ticket Sellers and fake Tour guides

You may likely encounter vendors selling tickets for different types . But many of these sellers are not genuine. Try to look for tickets for those vendors who are authentic. This happens at the major attraction sites and a public hub where easy transportation is found. 

Plus there are many people who claim to be Tour guides but they are not genuine. They may pretend to be real tour guides and take you around pretentiously and later demand money for the service. Look out for authentic tour guides such as Viator. 

7. Look out for Fake Restaurant prices

When eating out at a restaurant also look out for a prepper menu with proper price on it. Even try to verify the price before ordering the food. This is to avoid being scammed for heavy prices on food. If the menu has no proper price description try not to eat at the restaurant or simply confirm the price beforehand. Confirming the overall price before ordering the food helps to navigate what prices you are paying for food while eating out at restaurants.

8. Avoid free rose scams and cup games

If you get approached by people offering you free roses try to avoid getting the free rose . They are not free generally. Why would anybody offer you a free rose? Unless there is a charity going on? Once you get the rose, the scammer will demand your money for it. This might happen when you are chilling out or while touring around the city and suddenly get approached with a free rose. 

The other thing apart from being bluffed by free roses is cup games on the street. They might trigger your interest by promising a double price or winning price to earn from it. They also tend to have accomplices in the crowd who will be allowed to win a couple of times to deceive the tourists to play the game. But when they play the game the result is the opposite. The best way to avoid these scams is to simply decline the offer. Try to avoid these Paris scams.

Wherever you are traveling there are tourist scams in many forms. Individuals need to keep extra careful about any kind of approach. The above-mentioned are some of the common Paris tourist scams . One of the best ways to get bothered by such approaches is when you are traveling with a tour guide. Where your tour activities are already scheduled. Therefore, we encourage getting your booking with Viator where your tour activities are guided by the tour guides back and forth. They also help you in guiding against any such possible scams while touring around the city. For more information visit Viator and the official website of NoblePuma . 

There are a few ways to avoid getting scammed in Paris

Be quick to decline any kind of services that you do not need. Avoid any kind of insisting approaches. Don’t look like you are lost or a foreigner. Avoid speaking in English loudly in crowded places, this will not attract scammers. Don’t be afraid to strongly decline any offer. Take guidance from trusted local people. Take tour guides from authentic travel guides.

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10 Mistakes to Avoid When Visiting Paris

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Don’t Make These Paris Tourist Mistakes!

This post is all about the most common  Paris tourist mistakes  to avoid.

Traveling to Paris can be overwhelming, especially if it is your first time.

There are so many cultural differences, a language barrier, and of course the old stereotype that Parisians are “rude.” (Okay, a few of them really are, but the majority are very nice people!)

As someone who has lived in Paris and visited many times, I feel like I am qualified to offer this advice to make your trip more enjoyable and go as smoothly as possible!

From social faux pas to fashion don’ts to common tourist scams, here are 10 common tourist mistakes to avoid when visiting Paris!

Note:  One of the biggest mistakes you can make on ANY trip is not getting travel insurance.

Travel insurance gives you protection in case of any type of travel disaster: medical issues, stolen passport, lost luggage, cancelled trip, and so on.

For this reason, I recommend that everyone gets travel insurance. It’s a small price to pay for peace of mind when you travel.

The number one travel insurance provider is Allianz. Click here to get a free quote to see how much coverage would be on your trip to Paris.

1. Staying near the Eiffel Tower

A lot of first-time visitors to Paris think they MUST stay in a hotel near the Eiffel Tower, or the Louvre, or some other major tourist site.

The truth is that these neighborhoods are the most touristy and expensive, and Paris is such a walkable city with great Metro access that you really don’t need to stay in a particular area in order to see and do everything.

I recommend staying in a less touristy neighborhood like the Latin Quarter or Le Marais instead to get a more authentic experience and neighborhood feel.

2. Falling for tourist scams

While Paris is a very safe city to visit, the one thing you do have to worry about is tourist scams. Pickpockets, the gold ring scam, fake petitions, and “friendship bracelets” at Sacré-Cœur are just a few of the ways tourists are targeted by scammers.

Read 10 Most Common Tourist Scams in Paris and How to Avoid Them for more scams and what you can do to protect yourself from being targeted.

Scams are more prevalent in touristy areas, such as around the Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe, Louvre, Montmartre, and Notre Dame.

3. Not learning any French

While many Parisians do speak English, there’s no reason to live up to the “obnoxious American” stereotype by only speaking English while you’re in France.

Learning a few key phrases in French, like hello, good morning, goodbye, please, thank you, etc. and using them will go a long way in establishing goodwill with Parisians that you encounter.

4. Not greeting the shopkeeper

Many tourists don’t know about this faux pas, but not greeting the shopkeeper when you walk into the store is considered extremely rude in France.

Unless it’s a huge store like a department store or grocery store, you should always greet the shopkeeper with “Bonjour Madame/Monsieur” and thank them with “Merci, au revoir” when you leave (even if you don’t buy anything.)

5. Throwing away your Metro ticket

Always be sure to hold onto your Metro ticket instead of throwing it away in the station before you board your train.

Occasionally, there are metro officers waiting at the exit and they will be checking tickets to make sure you paid. If you are caught without your ticket, you can face a steep fine, so always hang on to your tickets until you’re out of the station!

Tipping is already included in the bill at restaurants in Paris, and it’s usually a 10-15% charge. So tipping on top of this is not needed because servers in Paris are already paid a living wage.

Of course, if you had really excellent service you can always leave an additional tip to show your appreciation, but it’s not required.

7. Forgetting a travel adapter

Outlets and voltage are different in France, so you will need a travel adapter in order to use any of your electronics such as phone and laptop chargers. I recommend this all in one travel adapter that works in the US, US, EU, and Australia.

8. Paying for water at a restaurant

If you order water at a restaurant, you might receive bottled water and be charged a few euros for it. In order to avoid this, be sure to order a carafe of water (“une carafe d’eau”) at the restaurant and you will receive a pitcher of tap water for free.

Tap water is perfectly safe to drink in Paris and tastes the same, so there’s no reason to pay extra for bottled water (unless you really want to for some reason.)

9. Dressing inappropriately

Parisians tend to dress quite nicely. This doesn’t mean you need to pack super high-fashion outfits to wear in Paris, but if you want to blend in and not stand out as an obvious foreigner, I would bring simple, tasteful clothing in dark and neutral colors.

Additionally, Parisians tend to cover up more, even during the summer. Don’t wear short shorts and a tank top unless you want to immediately stand out as a tourist.

10. Over-planning your trip

Even if you only have a few days in Paris, you shouldn’t try to cram in as much sightseeing and activities as possible, or you will end up burnt out and missing the real Parisian experience.

Instead, try to work some down time in your itinerary and spend it lounging in Luxembourg Garden, strolling along the Seine, or wandering down ancient alleyways in the Latin Quarter. This is how you can experience the “real” Paris and see what makes it such an enchanting city.

Enjoy your trip to Paris! For more tips, be sure to read:

• 12 Things to Do in Paris When It Rains
• Top 10 Best Day Trips from Paris
• 10 Most Common Tourist Scams in Paris and How to Avoid Them
• 11 Best Boutique Hotels in Paris

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About Denise Cruz

Denise is a marketing executive who escaped corporate to travel the world… twice. A Brazilian native living in the U.S., she’s lived in 4 countries and visited 35+ others. After side-hustling her way to financial independence, she curates solo destination guides, slow travel tips, and travel blogging advice on Wander Her Way. When she’s not on the road, you can find her in Miami with her dog Finnegan.

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