Paris, the city of light, also has some dark zones. Here’s an in-depth look at the arrondissements where exercising vigilance and caution is crucial, especially during the evening.
19th arrondissement: Goutte d’Or and Canal de l’Ourcq, areas to watch out for
- The 19th arrondissement, known for the Parc de la Villette and the Canal de l’Ourcq, has some less welcoming areas at night. The Goutte d’Or, especially around Rue Marx Dormoy and Rue de la Goutte d’Or, is a hot spot for drug dealing and crime.
- Insalubrity and run-down housing, particularly in some social housing estates, contributes to a less welcoming atmosphere.
- Community tensions can also arise, affecting the general feeling of safety in the neighborhood.
10th arrondissement: Vigilance in the areas of Gare du Nord and Gare de l’Est stations
- The 10th arrondissement, with the Gares du Nord and Gare de l’Est stations, is a major tourist hub. At night, these areas can be the scene for pickpocketing, scams and disturbances caused by the large concentration of people.
- Despite its charm during the day, the Canal Saint-Martin can become the scene of noisy and sometimes aggressive gatherings in the evening, particularly around the locks and bridges.
- Drug and alcohol-related conflicts are frequent around these stations, particularly at night, adding to the general area’s insecurity.
18th arrondissement: La Chapelle and Barbès, areas under high surveillance
- The 18th arrondissement, beyond the tourist appeal of Montmartre, has some real areas to avoid. La Chapelle, particularly around Rue Marx Dormoy and Rue de La Chapelle, is prone to incidents and petty crimes. Barbès, with its boulevard and the Barbès market, can be a place rife with theft and night-time tension.
- Congestion and noise pollution, particularly around tourist areas, can be a source of discomfort and pollution.
- Problems of substandard-housing and squatting can be observed in certain areas, particularly Rue des Poissonniers or Rue de Clignancourt.
20th arrondissement: Belleville and Ménilmontant, a double face un double visage
- The 20th arrondissement, with its districts like Belleville and Ménilmontant, shines for its cultural diversity. However, areas such as the Rue des Pyrénées and Rue de Belleville are prone to crime and nocturnal disturbances. Ménilmontant, particularly around Rue Boyer and Rue de Ménilmontant, can reveal a darker side after dark.
- Cleanliness can be a problem in some areas, particularly around Place de la Réunion and along Boulevard de Belleville, where rubbish and bulky items accumulate.
- Social tensions, due to socio-economic differences, can arise in specific areas in this district.
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