Paris is a dream, but if you’re not careful, your trip might come with a few headaches. Avoid these common mistakes and enjoy your first days in the City of Light without a hitch!
1. Skipping the RER B or Line 14 for Airport Transfers
I know you’ve just landed and might feel overwhelmed, but this is the simplest way to dive straight into the city without spending a fortune on taxis or shuttles.
For Charles de Gaulle (CDG), the RER B train is your best bet. It’s fast, affordable (about €11), and takes you straight to central stations like Châtelet-Les Halles or Gare du Nord in around 35 minutes.
For travelers arriving at Orly Airport, the newly extended Metro Line 14 now connects the airport directly to the city center. It’s a game-changer, providing a quick, smooth ride for about €12.
Both options save time and money, especially compared to taxis that cost €50–€70 or more.
If you’re carrying lots of luggage or arriving late at night, a taxi or ride-share might be more convenient, but for most visitors, these public transit options are the fastest and most economical.
Don’t forget to watch your belongings on public transit—it’s usually safe, but pickpockets can be an issue near tourist-heavy stops.
2. Overloading Your First Day
You’ve just arrived in Paris, and you’re excited to see everything—I get it. But don’t try to do too much on your first day!
Jet lag and travel fatigue are real.
Instead of packing in multiple activities, start with something light and scenic, like a Seine River cruise, a stroll around Île de la Cité, or enjoying a coffee at a quiet café.
Climbing the Eiffel Tower, visiting the Louvre, and exploring Montmartre all in one day might sound fun, but you’ll end up exhausted.
Paris isn’t going anywhere—you can always come back!
3. Overplanning Every Minute
It’s a classic mistake I see many people making.
Having a plan is smart, but don’t treat your Paris itinerary like a military operation.
Paris is a city of surprises, and the best moments often happen when you least expect them. Maybe you’ll stumble upon a quaint garden, an accordion player on the street, or a tiny boutique selling unique souvenirs.
Plan 2-3 must-see activities per day, but leave space for flexibility.
For instance, if you’re visiting the Louvre, plan time to wander the nearby Jardin des Tuileries or explore Rue de Rivoli.
If you pack every minute of your day, you’ll feel rushed and stressed.
4. Getting Fined in the Metro
Many tourists accidentally break the rules and end up with hefty fines.
These fines can range from €35 to €60 for seemingly small mistakes.
First, always validate your ticket. Whether you’re using a paper T+ ticket or a Navigo Easy Card, you must insert or scan it at the gate—even if the turnstile is already open or broken. Not doing so can result in a fine if controllers check tickets inside the system. Keep your validated ticket until you exit the station; losing it could lead to trouble, even if you paid for your ride.
Make sure you’re using the correct ticket for your destination. Regular T+ tickets only cover central Paris (Zone 1). Heading to Disneyland, Versailles, or the airports? You’ll need a special fare. Using the wrong ticket, even by mistake, can lead to a €50 fine.
If you’re using a daily or weekly pass, write your name and the date on it and attach a photo for weekly passes (like the Navigo Découverte). It’s non-transferable, and failure to personalize it correctly could result in a fine.
5. Eating at Tourist Traps
It’s tempting to eat near famous landmarks, but those restaurants often serve overpriced, mediocre food.
Instead, venture a few streets away.
Use Google Maps, Yelp or TripAdvisor to find places with good reviews.
6. Sticking Only to Major Attractions
The Eiffel Tower and the Louvre are iconic, but don’t miss Paris’s less touristy spots.
Explore Le Marais for cobblestone streets and trendy boutiques, or Canal Saint-Martin for a quiet stroll by the water.
Neighborhoods like Montmartre offer stunning views and a bohemian vibe, while Jardin des Plantes is a peaceful escape with botanical gardens.
Balance big attractions with time to explore Paris like a local.
7. Expecting Restaurants to Serve Dinner at 5:30 PM
If it’s your first day in Paris and you’re hungry by 5:30 PM, I understand—it’s been a long day! But remember, Parisian restaurants operate on their own schedule.
Lunch is usually 12-2 PM, and dinner doesn’t start before 7 PM.
Many places close between lunch and dinner, so plan accordingly.
Look for brasseries, which often serve food all day, or grab a snack from a bakery to hold you over.
8. Underestimating How Much Walking You’ll Do
On your first days, it’s easy to get caught up exploring, but be prepared—Paris is much larger than it seems.
For instance, walking from the Eiffel Tower to Notre Dame might look manageable on a map, but it’s over 5.4 miles (8.8 km)!
Wear comfortable shoes, and plan activities by neighborhood to save time and energy. Group nearby sites, like the Eiffel Tower with Trocadéro or Montmartre with the Sacré-Cœur.
9. Not Knowing the Restaurant/Waiter Culture
Dining in Paris is different from the U.S. Waiters won’t rush you—it’s considered rude.
If you’re ready to leave, ask for the check by saying, “L’addition, s’il vous plaît.”
Tipping isn’t mandatory but leaving a few coins is a nice gesture.
Expect a slower pace. Meals are a time to relax and enjoy, so don’t expect fast service. Use this time to soak in the Parisian atmosphere!
10. Expecting 24/7 Store Hours
Many shops close early, especially on Sundays. For example, bakeries and supermarkets might close by 1 PM on Sunday. They might as well stay completely closed depending on the neighborhood.
Plan ahead if you need essentials, and stock up on snacks or drinks the day before.
Restaurants and brasseries often stay open, but don’t rely on stores being available late at night.
11. Getting Tricked by Scam Artists
On your first days in Paris, you’ll probably spend time around the city’s biggest landmarks, like the Eiffel Tower or Sacré-Cœur, where scammers are most active.
Common tricks include fake petitions or “friendship” bracelets tied to your wrist. Politely say “Non, merci” and walk away.
Keep your wallet and phone secure in crowded areas, and be cautious when approached by strangers offering help or deals.
Related read: 5 Common Scams in Paris Tourists Are Falling For Every Day
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.
