The City of Light is filled with incredible sights, sounds, and experiences. But not all Paris travel advice is as helpful as it used to be. Some tips that may have been useful years ago are now outdated and could keep you from making the most of your trip.
1. Don’t Speak English – Parisians Won’t Like It
In the past, it was common advice to avoid speaking English in Paris to seem more polite.
But today, most Parisians, especially in tourist areas, speak at least a bit of English.
Even if your French isn’t perfect, people appreciate polite attempts, and they’re used to visitors from all over the world.
Starting with “Bonjour” (hello) and “Merci” (thank you) is always a nice gesture, but it’s okay to use English if you need to.
2. The Métro is Too Confusing for Tourists – Stick to Taxis
The Paris Métro might look like a maze at first, but it’s actually a very efficient way to get around.
The Métro is fast, affordable, and has stops near almost every major attraction.
Plus, with modern navigation apps, it’s easier than ever to figure out where to go.
Many signs are in both French and English, and apps like Google Maps or Citymapper can help you find your way around.
Taxis can be convenient, but the Métro often gets you there faster and for a fraction of the price.
3. Dress Formally to Blend In
You might have heard that Parisians dress formally and that tourists should too.
While it’s true that Parisians appreciate style, you don’t have to dress as if you’re attending a formal event to blend in. In fact, Parisian fashion has become more relaxed, with people wearing stylish but comfortable clothing.
You’ll see everything from jeans to sneakers and colorful clothing, especially in younger, artsy neighborhoods.
As long as you feel good in what you’re wearing, you’ll fit right in.
4. Never Visit Montmartre at Night
Montmartre is one of Paris’s most charming neighborhoods, and it’s even more magical at night.
Once thought to be unsafe after dark, Montmartre has become a lively area in the evenings, with cafés, restaurants, and street performers creating a vibrant atmosphere.
Whether you’re taking in the view from Sacré-Cœur or exploring the little side streets, Montmartre at night is now a popular and safe spot for both tourists and locals.
5. Avoid Smiling at Strangers to Blend In
Parisians have a reputation for being reserved, which led to the tip that you shouldn’t smile at strangers. While people in Paris may be a bit more private, they’re friendly and used to visitors, so a warm smile or a friendly “Bonjour” is welcome.
Smiling at a passerby or at your waiter is perfectly fine and can even help create a friendly atmosphere during your stay.
6. Skip the Seine River Cruises – They’re Only for Tourists
Seine river cruises have become a popular way to see Paris from a unique perspective, and they’re not just for tourists anymore. Many locals enjoy these cruises, especially evening ones that offer a beautiful view of Paris at sunset.
Today, there are several types of river cruises to choose from. You’ll find options like champagne cruises, which offer drinks and light bites as you glide past iconic landmarks, and dinner cruises, where the quality of food has significantly improved, making them a wonderful way to enjoy Parisian cuisine with a view.
A boat ride down the Seine lets you take in major sights like the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame, and the Louvre from the water—an experience even locals love.
So, don’t skip the river cruise if you’re interested! It’s a fun, memorable way to see the city from a different angle.
7. Don’t Visit Paris in August – The City Shuts Down
Years ago, it was common for Parisians to leave the city in August for vacation, and many businesses would close.
While this is still partly true, it’s much less common now.
More shops, restaurants, and attractions stay open year-round, especially in areas popular with tourists. August has even become a fun time to visit, with special events and fewer crowds at some attractions.
So if August is your only option, don’t worry—you’ll still find plenty to do in Paris.
8. Bring Lots of Cash
Years ago, carrying cash in Paris was a must because many places didn’t accept credit cards.
Today, however, cash isn’t as necessary. Most shops, restaurants, and attractions now accept credit cards and even contactless payments like Apple Pay.
Not only is using a card easier, but it’s also safer than carrying large amounts of cash, especially with Paris’s busy tourist areas.
It’s still a good idea to have some cash for small purchases, but you don’t need to carry a lot.
9. Dress in All Black to Blend in with the Locals
The advice to dress in all black to blend in is no longer true.
While Parisians have a reputation for liking black clothing, you’ll see people wearing all kinds of colors and styles, especially in neighborhoods like Belleville and Le Marais.
Parisians are known for their individual style, but you don’t have to wear only black to fit in. In today’s Paris, feel free to bring some color into your wardrobe!
10. Don’t Rent a Bike; Paris Traffic is Too Intense
It used to be common advice to avoid biking in Paris because of heavy traffic, but that’s outdated now.
Paris has become a very bike-friendly city, with dedicated bike lanes and the popular Vélib’ bike rental system, which allows you to rent bikes from stations all over the city.
Biking is now one of the best ways to see Paris up close, giving you more freedom to explore different neighborhoods at your own pace.
The bike lanes help make cycling safer and easier than ever.
11. Paris Isn’t Safe at Night
Some people still say that Paris isn’t safe at night, but like any big city, it depends on where you go.
Most tourist areas, like the Champs-Élysées, Montmartre, and Saint-Germain, stay lively and safe well into the evening.
Parisians themselves enjoy nighttime activities, from late dinners to evening strolls, and these areas are well-lit and active.
Of course, it’s always wise to stay aware of your surroundings, but Paris is generally a safe city to explore at night.
Related topic: Paris Safety Guide: Areas to Avoid at Night
12. Never Take Photos Inside Churches
Many people once believed that taking photos inside churches in Paris was strictly forbidden, but today, it’s allowed in most churches as long as you don’t use flash.
Churches like Notre-Dame, Sacré-Cœur, and Sainte-Chapelle welcome visitors and photographers, and they understand that people want to capture the beauty of these historic sites.
Always check for specific signs, but don’t hesitate to take non-flash photos if it’s allowed.
13. The Best Way to See the Eiffel Tower Is to Go Up It
While going up the Eiffel Tower is an amazing experience, it’s not the only way to get a great view of Paris.
Many people now recommend viewing the Eiffel Tower from nearby spots like Trocadéro, Montparnasse Tower, Arc de Triomphe or even from a Seine river cruise.
These locations give you the chance to see the tower in all its glory and to take fantastic photos. Plus, they’re often less crowded than the Eiffel Tower’s own viewing platforms.
14. Only Buy Pastries from Famous Bakeries
Paris is known for its world-famous bakeries, and places like Pierre Hermé, Ladurée, and Poilâne are legendary for their pastries, bread, and desserts.
These renowned spots have become must-visit destinations, especially for treats like macarons, croissants, and pain au chocolat.
But you don’t have to stick to only the well-known places for great pastries. Some of the best croissants, baguettes, and other treats can be found in small neighborhood boulangeries that Parisians frequent daily.
These local bakeries are often more affordable and can be less crowded than the famous spots. So, don’t hesitate to try a pastry from the nearest boulangerie—you might just discover a hidden gem!
15. Stay Away from Tourist Sites to Find Good Food
The idea that you need to avoid tourist areas to find good food isn’t true anymore.
While some places near big attractions may be overpriced, there are plenty of great restaurants near popular sites.
For example, Le Fumoir near the Louvre offers a cozy atmosphere and refined French cuisine, while Les Ombres near the Eiffel Tower serves elegant dishes with a fantastic view of the tower itself. Near Notre-Dame, Au Vieux Paris d’Arcole is a charming spot with a classic Parisian vibe and excellent food.
A bit of research can help you find high-quality spots near these landmarks and others.
Paris’s food scene has grown to include wonderful options at all price points, so don’t feel the need to avoid certain areas just to get a good meal.
16. You Should Always Tip in Cash
Tipping in cash isn’t as necessary as it used to be. In Paris, service is often included in the bill, and tipping is more of a friendly gesture than a requirement.
Many restaurants and cafés now accept tips added to credit card payments, so if you prefer, you can tip on your card.
While leaving some extra for excellent service is appreciated, don’t feel pressured to tip heavily or always in cash—Parisians are used to different customs, especially with tourists.
With a passion for travel and having visited over 50 countries, Dorian is eager to share his favorite spots and expert tips to help you explore Paris and France like a local.
