15 tips of what not to do while visiting Paris

15 tips of what not to do while visiting Paris

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PARIS — One doesn't have to look far to find tips and suggestions for visiting Paris. It is one of the world's most popular tourist destinations and is beloved by many.

Among all of the romance and culture, there are some things to avoid in order to keep from being disappointed and to help you not break the bank on a trip to Paris. For first-time visitors sticking to a budget, here are some tips to enjoy this city to the fullest.

Don't take a taxi

Just as in many major European cities, taxis are not worth it in Paris. They are very expensive and visitors can end up spending much more than expected, due to traffic and high rates. The metro is well designed and easy to get around on, so study up and have the metro map on hand.

Plan to buy a carnet of tickets for your stay. Other fun ways to get around include walking, renting Vlib city bikes, catching a city bus, taking the hop-on-hop-off Batobus along the Seine, or even taking shuttles to and from the airport. Just avoid the traditional Parisian taxis.

Don't be afraid to speak French

Locals appreciate it when tourists make an effort with a few basic words. You might feel uncomfortable speaking the native language, but it is worth learning one or two phrases to try out. It will make your visit more memorable and it will definitely make a local smile.

It's not necessary to speak French in Paris and visitors can easily get by with English, but there are a few helpful phrases to know. These include bonjour, bonsoir, pardon, merci, and more. If you really want to seem local, say "Bonne journée!" when leaving a shop or restaurant. It means "Have a nice day!" and Parisians will respond well to this.

Make the most of your visit to Paris by knowing what to do, and what not to do. (Photo: Emi Rigby, WellTraveledWife.com)
Make the most of your visit to Paris by knowing what to do, and what not to do. (Photo: Emi Rigby, WellTraveledWife.com)

Don't pay for water when eating out

This may sound strange to Americans, but a lot of money can be saved by bringing a bottled water in your bag or asking for a carafe of tap water at the table. You may get it begrudgingly, but if you don't, each bottle of still or sparkling water will definitely add up.

Don't overtip

Americans visiting Paris are accustomed to giving a good tip because in the U.S. it is a main part of a waiter's salary. This is not the case in France, where 10-15 percent service charges are included in the bill and waiters are paid so that they are not dependent on tips. That is why they also might seem a little bit slow to take your order. If a waiter goes above and beyond, it is fine to tip them extra, but it is not expected.

Don't stay in the wrong area

Hotel searching in Paris can be daunting, but don't get overwhelmed and choose a place on the edge of town or in a rough area. You are in Paris, and your location is a major part of the experience. You'll also likely spend more time and money on the many metro rides into center if you stay outside of it.

Look for affordable hotels in the 1st, 4th, 6th, 7th or 8th arrondissements and just be aware that they may be tiny, but the location is worth it. Airbnb is also an amazing option in Paris. If it's your first time, renting a place in the Marais district is a really great option to feel like a local.

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Don't dine at the famous brasseries

Paris is known for incredible French food, high-end eateries, and chic dining options. Brasseries make the French culinary world go round and they're definitely worth a visit to peek in. For dining, however, they have the most marked-up prices.

Nowadays, these high-end brasseries are run by chains capitalizing on tourists and lowering the quality. Visitors will be unpleasantly surprised by €9 sodas, ($13) average food, long waits and overhype. There are hundreds of great creperies and cafés in Paris that are reasonable and delicious. Research beforehand and be on the lookout for fresh croque-monsieur stands, savory crepe stands, and bakeries with baguette sandwiches.

Don't worry too much about what you're wearing

Dressing up in Paris feels like a must as it is the fashion capital of the world, but don't overdo it and try to dress like a supermodel. You won't want to walk around in your fanciest high heels all day, but you also don't want to bring Tevas. Dress in a chic and simple style. Parisians are renowned for being so fashionable because they prioritize comfort and simplicity. Do the same so you can enjoy walking around and not worry about your clothes.

Don't miss out on the Paris Museum Pass

The best way to see the top Paris museums is to get this pass. It saves a lot of money if you use it for a few museums and it helps you skip long lines which saves precious time. This is a must for first-time visitors, as it's the best value and gives reason to visit as many as possible.

Don't miss the free things

Paris can be expensive, but there are also so many amazing free things to do. Stroll down the grand avenues, take pictures on the Pont Alexandre III, sit by the Seine River, lounge at the Canal Saint-Martin, wander Montmartre, tour Sacré-cœur Basilica, listen to music on the steps and jog through Luxembourg Gardens. These free sites will help you lose the pressure to spend for every activity.

Don't sit down and eat every lunch at a café

There's nothing quite like sitting on a café sidewalk for an afternoon and taking in the streets and people of Paris. Definitely do this at least once, but when you are grabbing a quick lunch in the middle of your day, don't order it to be eaten there. The café will likely ask whether you'd like takeaway or to stay, but fail to mention that it's an extra charge if you stay and eat at the table. Order takeaway, save some euros and go find a park bench to eat on.

Another good lunch option is to pick up some fresh baguettes at a bakery (usually around 50 cents) as well as some Gruyère cheese and ham at the market. Take that to a park with some cherries and grapes and make your own French picnic.

Don't fall for scams

Nothing can ruin a day in Paris like getting pick pocketed on the metro or scammed at the Eiffel tower. Paris is full of tourists and the thieves and scam artists take full advantage. Don't get so caught up in the pretty sights that you lose track of your wallet or bag. Keep everything zipped and secure under your arm and stay alert.

At certain popular sights such as Montmartre and the Eiffel Tower, people may approach you asking you to sign petitions, make you a friendship bracelet out of string, tell you that you dropped something, etc. Nine times out of ten, they are part of a scam and if you let them distract you, you could be in trouble or get robbed. Just say no and keep walking.

Don't stay only in the city

It's tempting to spend your entire visit right in the city, but some of the best attractions are outside of Paris. Whether Versailles, Normandy, Mont Saint Michel, or the Loire Valley, there are incredible experiences to be had beyond Paris. There is so much more to France, so get out and experience it.

Don't miss the best views

The top of the Eiffel Tower is the classic monument to climb in Paris, but the ironic thing is that you can't see Paris' most iconic landmark in your view because you are standing on it. While it's a fun experience to climb, other great views can be had from the top of the Arc de Triomphe, Sacré Coeur, the top of Notré Dame, and even the swings or ferris wheel at the Jardin de Tuileries amusement park.

Don't forget basic international travel steps before you go

Bring converters, exchange currency and alert your bank that you will be abroad. Don't forget to make copies of your passport and itinerary and send to a family member at home.

Don't get overwhelmed by Paris

As amazing as it is, Paris can be intimidating to new travelers. It feels fancy, expensive and confusing. Just remember that people from all over the world and all backgrounds visit Paris. It is a city with so much to offer and so many affordable options.

Paris is one of the greatest cities on earth. If you follow these tips and do it the right way, you should have a great experience.


Emi Rigby currently lives in Amsterdam and documents her travels around the world on her food & travel blog WellTraveledWife.com.

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