Paris—the iconic City of Light—attracts millions of visitors each year with its romantic atmosphere, world-class museums, and incredible cuisine. Yet even the most carefully planned Paris vacation can encounter unexpected challenges.
Curated from the insights of both local expats and seasoned travelers in our Facebook Group (feel free to join!), I’ve compiled the most common Paris travel mistakes that visitors make. By learning what not to do in Paris, you’ll ensure your French adventure is as magical as you’ve always dreamed.
Transportation Mistakes When Visiting Paris
1. Taking an Airport Taxi Without Research
Many first-time Paris visitors regret taking standard taxis from Charles de Gaulle or Orly airports. With notorious traffic and fares often exceeding €60, this decision can start your trip on the wrong note.
Better alternatives:
- Use the RER train (€11.40 one-way),
- Pre-book an airport shuttle (€45 -50 one-way)
- Uber – the same app works in the US as in France, you won’t even need to update your credit card info
- Specifically request a G7 taxi—Paris’s most reputable taxi service with fixed airport rates (ranging from €56-65 from CDG and €36-45 from Orly Airport)
2. Navigating the Metro Without Preparation
Paris boasts one of Europe’s most comprehensive public transportation systems, but it can overwhelm unprepared travelers. The interconnected Metro, RER, and bus networks require some advance planning.
Better alternatives:
- Download the City Mapper app before arrival
- Purchase a weekly Navigo Découverte pass (€30) or a multi-day Paris Visite pass if staying 3+ days.
- My favorite app to get around is the Ile de France Mobilities – and it’s in English
3. Buying Incorrect Versailles Train Tickets
A common and costly mistake is purchasing standard Metro tickets for Versailles, only to discover that Versailles lies outside central Paris zones. If you get stopped by security, they can fine you!
Better alternative:
Purchase specific RER C tickets to Versailles-Château (zones 1-4), currently €4.60 each way. During peak season (April-October), consider the earliest morning train to beat crowds. Read my full guide to traveling to Versailles here.
Time Management Mistakes in Paris
4. Planning Too Short a Stay
According to travel forums, the number one regret among Paris visitors is not allocating enough time. The city rewards slow exploration rather than rushed sightseeing.
Better alternative:
Plan a minimum 5-day stay for first-time visitors, or 7+ days if including day trips to Versailles, Giverny, or the Loire Valley.
5. Overscheduling Each Day
Trying to visit the Louvre, Eiffel Tower, and Notre Dame restoration site in a single day guarantees exhaustion rather than enjoyment.
Better alternative: Limit yourself to one major attraction per day, paired with neighborhood exploration. For example, visit the Louvre in the morning, then spend the afternoon wandering through Les Halles and Le Marais with a guide.
6. Underestimating Time Needed for Versailles
There’s no doubt that Palace of Versailles deserves more time than most travelers allocate. Rushing through Versailles just won’t do it justice! Even beyond the main palace, the gardens, Grand Trianon, Marie Antoinette’s Estate, and the town itself offer rich experiences.
Better alternative: Dedicate a full day (8+ hours) or two to properly experience Versailles and bring snacks to avoid long restaurant lines during peak times. Take a guide to skip through the lines and to better understand what you’re looking atl
Remember, there’s more to the city of Versailles than just the palace – make sure you explore!
Booking and Planning Mistakes
7. Skipping Advance Ticket Purchases
In 2025, spontaneous visits to major Paris attractions often mean wasting hours in line—particularly during peak season (May-September).
Better alternative: Book skip-the-line tickets for the Eiffel Tower at least 60 days in advance. For the Louvre, Musée d’Orsay, and Catacombs, purchase timed-entry tickets at least two weeks before arrival.
8. Choosing Poorly Located Accommodations
Many first-timers mistakenly book hotels near the Eiffel Tower, only to discover they’re far from Paris’s most vibrant neighborhoods and authentic experiences.
Better alternative: Consider accommodations in Le Marais (3rd/4th), Saint-Germain-des-Prés (6th), or Canal Saint-Martin (10th) for better restaurant options and more authentic Parisian atmosphere.
If you’re staying In Versailles, consider staying in the St. Louis Quarter or near the Royal Market of Notre Dame (Marché Notre Dame)
9. Booking Unvetted Vacation Rentals
The vacation rental market in Paris has become increasingly problematic, with many properties managed by companies rather than local hosts.
In Versailles, short term rental hosts (like AirBnB) are required to meet you at check-in with the key. Making the whole experience a bit more authentic.
Better alternative: If choosing an apartment over a hotel, thoroughly read reviews focusing on host communication and property accuracy. Confirm the listing has at least 15+ positive reviews before booking. Go through reputable channels, like AirBnB or Vrbo or HomeAway.
Food and Dining Mistakes in Paris
10. Paying for Overpriced Hotel Breakfasts
Hotel breakfasts in Paris typically cost €15-25 per person—a significant expense for a meal that’s better enjoyed at local cafés.
Better alternative: Experience authentic Parisian mornings at neighborhood boulangeries and cafés. A croissant, café crème, and fresh orange juice rarely exceeds €8-10 total.
11. Not Making Restaurant Reservations
Spontaneous dining works for casual bistros, but France’s most memorable restaurants—even mid-range options—often require advance planning.
Better alternative: Use LaFourchette (TheFork) app to make reservations 1-2 weeks ahead for dinner and weekend lunches. Note that most sit-down restaurants close between lunch (typically 12-2pm) and dinner service (7-10pm).
12. Ordering Unfamiliar Dishes Without Research
Menu translations can be misleading, leading to unexpected culinary surprises (raw steak tartare being the classic example).
Better alternatives:
- Download Google Translate with French language pack for offline use.
- Learn key terms like “cru” (raw), “bleu” (very rare), and “à point” (medium) before ordering.
- Snap a photo of the menu with a translating app like ChatGPT.
13. Over-Tipping at Restaurants
Unlike North America, service is included in French restaurant prices. Look for “service compris” on menus.
Better alternative: Unlike in the U.S., tipping isn’t expected in France. A small amount (like rounding up) is sufficient in most places. You might want to tip 5-10% of the bill if you have been given exceptional service, or are in a high-tourist area.
Safety and Scam Awareness
14. Falling Victim to Pickpockets
Paris pickpocketing remains concentrated around major tourist sites and public transportation. Lines 1 and 4 of the Metro have had reputations for this.
Better alternative: Use anti-theft bags, keep phones in front pockets or inner jacket pockets, and remain especially vigilant around the Eiffel Tower, Sacré-Cœur, and crowded Metro cars, rush hours.
15. Getting Caught in Common Street Scams
The “gold ring” scam, petition signers, and bracelet makers continue targeting tourists around major attractions in 2025.
Better alternative: Firmly decline interaction with anyone approaching you near monuments. A confident “Non, merci” while continuing to walk is your best defense.
16. Accepting Unofficial Transportation
Unlicensed taxi drivers soliciting inside airport terminals remain a persistent problem at Paris airports.
Better alternative: Only use official taxi stands outside arrival halls, pre-booked services, or rideshare apps. Legitimate Paris taxis have illuminated roof signs and meters.
Packing and Weather Preparation
17. Wearing Inappropriate Footwear
Paris is best explored on foot, with many travelers logging 8-12 miles daily across cobblestone streets and uneven sidewalks.
Better alternative: Pack well-broken-in walking shoes with cushioned soles. Fashion-forward options like leather sneakers or walking flats blend style with comfort.
18. Overpacking for Your Paris Trip
Dragging oversized luggage through Metro stations with limited elevators and narrow hotel stairways creates unnecessary stress.
Better alternative: Pack versatile layers in a carry-on sized bag, planning to do laundry for stays exceeding one week. Most Paris neighborhoods have laundromats (laveries) with easy-to-use machines.
19. Inadequate Weather Preparation
Paris weather remains unpredictable year-round, with sudden rain showers common even during summer months.
Better alternative: Pack a compact umbrella and lightweight, packable rain jacket regardless of season. Layering options accommodate Paris’s frequent temperature fluctuations within the same day.
Payment and Currency Considerations
20. Not Preparing Payment Methods
American Express and Discover aren’t widely accepted in France.
Better alternative: Bring multiple payment options including a Visa or Mastercard. Notify your bank of travel dates and carry cash for small purchases.
Cultural Awareness
21. Skipping Basic French Greetings
The single biggest complaint from visitors about “rude” Parisians often stems from cultural misunderstandings around greetings. You’ve probably heard horror stories about rude French people. But trust me, even if your French is limited, a simple “Bonjour” (daytime) or “Bonsoir” (evening) can go a long way. Always remember to say merci (thanks), too. Read more about French etiquette.
Better alternative: Begin every interaction—from shops to restaurants—with “Bonjour” (before 6pm) or “Bonsoir” (evening). Add “Monsieur” or “Madame” for extra politeness. Always end transactions with “Merci” or “Merci beaucoup.”
Conclusion: Enjoying Authentic Paris in 2025
While traveling to France can be challenging, understanding these common mistakes transforms your experience from potentially frustrating to truly magical. By approaching the city with realistic expectations, cultural respect, and proper planning, you’ll discover why Paris continues to captivate travelers century after century.
Remember—even if you make some of these mistakes, Paris always offers a reason to return for a second chance at the perfect visit.
