In Paris, certain tourist habits can sometimes annoy the locals. Discover which little faux pas you should avoid for a harmonious and respectful Parisian experience. From being respectful of others in public places to the importance of politeness, here’s a guide to navigating the capital with grace.
1. Speaking loudly in public places
Everyone knows tourists can be loud and exuberant… but in Paris, the locals like their peace and quiet.
So when visitors start speaking loudly in public places, where everyone can hear everything, it’s really not appreciated.
The trick is to be aware of your surroundings and respect everyone’s privacy and tranquility. That way, everyone’s happy!
2. Stopping suddenly on busy streets
Want to capture a moment in a photo? In desperate need of GPS to get your bearings? There are so many reasons to stop abruptly and pull out your phone, right?
Yes, but no! The locals, who know every nook and cranny of Paris and surely have somewhere to be, won’t be happy about the sudden stop.
Collisions and sideways glances are guaranteed. My advice: stay out of the way and avoid becoming a walking obstacle.
3. Indiscreetly taking photos
Parisians are getting fed up with tourists taking photos without being discreet.
Imagine you’re enjoying a croissant when suddenly a flash goes off in your face. Not very cool, is it?
Taking photos of anyone or blocking the way for selfies can be super annoying. No one likes to find themselves the unwilling star of a complete stranger’s vacation album. A little respect for privacy, please!
4. Not waiting in line
Parisians sometimes lose their zen attitude when faced with tourists who don’t bother queuing.
Imagine the anarchy in front of a boulangerie! In France, waiting in line is the perfect time to answer an email or daydream for 5 minutes… it’s sacred.
But when tourists play the rebel, things take a turn for the worse. The result? Grumpy Parisians and endless queues.
5. Not saying Bonjour or Merci
Someone who skips Bonjour (Hello) and Merci (Thank you) is either an unpleasant person, with no notion of basic politeness, or someone who’s having a bad day. That’s the conclusion we draw here in France.
These little words have become reflexive and are social norms. If you forget them, believe me, you won’t leave a good impression.
6. Monopolizing public spaces for photos
Everyone wants to capture the perfect moment, but it shouldn’t be at the expense of others.
With the constant crowds in Paris, if everyone takes photos at every turn, cohabitation is likely to be complicated.
Let’s keep sharing in mind when in public spaces to make them even more pleasant.
7. Not respecting the left-hand rule on escalators
Basic rules for escalators: if you’re not in a hurry (you’re on vacation, of course), keep to the right. And above all, leave room on your left for people passing you. Parisians on their way to work are in a hurry.
It doesn’t take much more than a tourist blocking an escalator to annoy a Parisian!
8. Using cell phones invasively
We all know that our phones have become a part of us, sometimes even glued to our hands…
But after an exhausting day, we all yearn for a little peace and quiet and a well-deserved break.
To do so, we try to reduce phone use in public places and, when we eat out, we enjoy the company of those we’re with.
9. Approaching Parisians in English without preamble
Starting a conversation in English from the outset with the French isn’t necessarily the best approach.
Keep in mind the Parisian you’re talking to might not speak English. It gives the impression that the tourist isn’t trying to adapt to the local culture and instead assumes that everyone speaks their language.
A bit risky, isn’t it? Instead, learn a little magic phrase: Bonjour. Pardon, est-ce que vous parlez anglais? (Hello. Excuse me, do you speak English?). It’ll make things a lot easier later on.
10. Relying too much on stereotypes about Parisians
All right, it’s time to drop the stereotypes about Parisians. Sure, some of them may be true…
But the idea that “Parisians are rude” or “Parisians hate speaking English”? No. It’s just that there’s a right way to approach them and to talk to them.
Once you’ve got the hang of it, off you go!
11. Dressing too casually in elegant places
Even if the city welcomes a good dose of eccentricity, it requires a certain limit in certain cases and an appropriate dress code is essential in its most elegant places: fancy restaurants, theaters, and so on.
12. Not being polite on public transport
Politeness is a fundamental value in France. And in Paris? Absolutely!
This courtesy is particularly evident on public transport. Even though it’s often packed to the rafters, there’s one golden rule to be observed: the elderly and pregnant women must not be inconvenienced!
The solution is simple: as soon as they get on board, they are immediately offered seats, with a smile to boot. You have to put yourself in their shoes—it’s not always easy for them.
13. Using Vélib’ bikes carelessly
Ah, tourists on their rental bicycles, the Vélib’, that’s something that irritates Parisians.
Cycling in the city requires safety and courtesy.
Stay alert, stay on the cycle paths, watch where you’re going, and respect other road users and red lights. It’s essential for a safe and enjoyable ride in Paris!
I aim to share my tips and recommendations for the beautiful country of France. My goal is to help you plan your next adventure, whether it’s a weekend getaway or a once-in-a-lifetime trip. From finding the best hotels and restaurants, to discovering unique activities and sights, I’ve got you covered!
