But why would anyone wish not to look like a tourist in Paris, right? Well, that’s a valid question but here is the answer. A place can offer a lot more to its own residents than the visitors from the outside. So, when you don’t look like a tourist, you can enjoy a much better experience in Paris. But, how can you not look like a tourist in Paris when you actually are a tourist? Well, that is why you are reading this blog. Let’s start!
The Romantic City, The City of Love, Paris, is the capital of France. It is famous for its history, culture, architecture, things to do and for the romance in the air. Situated on the banks of the River Seine, this magical city is full of picture-perfect scenes. It is also the country’s cultural and commercial centre.
Paris is an important city in the world. Famous for its education, infotainment and business. It has museums, landmarks, cathedrals, gardens, operas and lots and lots of food. While having all these features it is quite obvious to have a different cultural identity than the rest of the world. And when you don’t want to look like a tourist in Paris, you need to know all of them.
Paris: Culture Differences you need to know before visiting so that you don’t look like a tourist
“Everything ends this way in France – everything. Weddings, christenings, duels, burials, swindlings, diplomatic affairs – everything is a pretext for a good dinner.” – Jean Anouilh (French Playwright)
The Romantic City, The Fashion Capital and one of the most sought-after destinations by tourists all over the world. Planning a trip to Paris is exciting as well as anxiety-inducing at the same time. Many questions arise such as “How will I communicate?“, “What should I wear in the Fashion Capital?“, “What should I eat?“, “Where should I stay?“, “How to stay safe?“… and many more.
Do not worry, as we are here with some of the most useful tips and tricks for you to have a wonderful time on your Paris trip. Beware that after reading these tips, you may not look like a tourist any more. LOL
Starting up to not look like a tourist in Paris
1. French people are very formal.
They follow rules very strictly. They insist on speaking French even when it is clear that you’re not quite comfortable speaking it. So if you are planning to visit Paris and don’t know French. Start learning it now. The first step to learning any culture is to learn the language first.
2. Greet with a “Bonjour”.
Wherever you go, keep things formal and greet with a “Bonjour”. The French are quiet people. They often go out of their way to show you that they’re uncomfortable.
3. French people give priority to their food.
Meal times are their time to relax and enjoy the food and socialize. So if you don’t want to look like a tourist then eat at a slower pace in Paris.
4. Lunch timings in Paris are 12:30 to 02:30 and for dinner, it is 07:30 to 09:30.
They don’t eat between meals. French people don’t eat on the go. They tend to sit and relax while eating. Of course, they have their breakfast in the morning but it is less likely that they would have any snacks in the evening.
5. French people focus on families.
Businesses are closed on Sundays and Mondays. So that people can spend time with their families. Therefore, always check if the destination you are heading towards is open or not.
Bonus Tip: Most of the museums offer free entry on Sundays.
Let’s get into the real business to not look like a tourist in Paris
It is not enough to just not look like a tourist. You need to learn how not to behave like a tourist in Paris. From now on the tips will help tell you how not to behave like a tourist.
6. You won’t find many public toilets in France.
Therefore the easiest way is to relieve yourself while you’re somewhere near a toilet. It may be quite some time before you find another one. Make a habit of relieving yourself before leaving your house/hotel/accommodation.
7. Cafes can offer more than an Espresso if you know this.
There are pill-shaped public toilets that you may find in some places. But, trust me it is better not to use them as they’re not so hygienic and often broken. The alternative way is to visit any nearby cafe, order an espresso and use the clean toilet.
8. One Meal = One Person
While eating in restaurants keep in mind that you have to order one main course meal per person. Also, you have to finish your meal as you cannot expect a takeaway.
For example, if you are a couple and planning to order one meal and share it. You can’t. You have to order everything one item for one person.
9. You should wait to be seated by the restaurant staff.
It is considered rude to take a seat on your own. Make sure to wait and to be seated by the restaurant staff. The reason is that there are tables reserved at times which you may not be aware of.
10. Remember to use your cutlery while eating.
French people do not use their hands to eat. Whether it is pizza, sandwich or French fries you always have to use your fork and knife. So if you are trying not to look like a tourist in Paris then do follow this practice. By doing so, you can avoid unnecessary attention which may attract nearby pickpocketers as well.
11. You don’t need to leave a tip for the waiter in Paris.
The restaurant bill includes sales tax as well as service tax. Therefore you are not obliged to pay any tip. You can save those extra bucks for some parking or entry fees.
12. You don’t have to be fluent in French if you’re visiting Paris.
Knowing a few phrases to go on in daily life is sufficient. Though not many French people speak English and they find it rude if you’re not speaking their language. Make use of Google Translate and other language-learning apps to communicate.
13. Only a tourist will rent a car in Paris.
Do not rent a car in Paris as it is too expensive. Use metros, buses and private taxis for commuting. The best way to explore Paris is on foot.
14. Carry a power adapter which you can use in Paris.
You need to have a separate power adapter for charging your phones and laptops in Paris. In France, you get a voltage of 230V. So you need to get an adapter which is usable on that Voltage.
Here comes the main part. Reasons why you should not look like a tourist in Paris
15. The Paris Metro is famous for pickpockets.
They usually wait on the platforms or in crowded metros. If you’re falling victim to them then make sure to yell loudly. They work in teams so watch out and be very careful.
16. Be careful of groups of kids or teens.
They usually approach people to sign a petition or ask for money. Meanwhile, the others try to pickpocket.
17. Be careful around the ticket counters and the vending machines.
If someone comes out to help you, remember that they’re suspicious. Parisians don’t offer help unless you ask.
18. Pickpockets are generally in those areas where there are more tourists.
Tuileries Metro Station, Gare Du Nord, Les Halles, Le Louvre, Bir Hakeim and about all metro stations on Line 1 and Line 4 are a hotspot for pickpockets.
19. Beware of fake taxi scams.
Legitimate taxis always charge clear rates. The fake ones will tell you rates which are way higher than the actual rates.
20. Where to find the official taxis?
There are official taxi stands outside Airports, Metros and Bus stands. The official taxis always have a light on top.
21. There are even official taxis that try to scam you.
Yes, leave the fake ones, even the official ones may scam you if you look like an easy target to them. You must know about the flat rates, surcharges and night and morning rates. These are all available by the French government on their official website Taxi Fare and Rules in Paris.
Like the above chart, there are flat rates for most of the locations. In case there is no flat rate mentioned. Here are the general rules.
Apart from the above general rates, there are a few more rules to know.
Note: Remember that the driver can’t charge you night fare and icy road fare at the same time.
Although there are cases when drivers can charge you extra as we saw above. But, there are cases as well when the driver can’t charge you more.
Passengers can’t force the driver to provide a discount. It is a decision to be made by the driver. Yet, the passengers can request it.
22. In Paris taxi drivers accept credit cards.
If they say no or offer to take you to an ATM claiming that their machine is broken, consider it a scam. It is better to ask before getting into one.
23. Make sure to record whatever the driver is saying.
First of all, always pay using a credit card. And if the driver seems suspicious or behaves rudely, make sure to record it. In case you might have to report a complaint to the police you must have the evidence with you. Read what the police of France have to say to you. For Tourists
Please make sure to go through the above official website of FR gov. which has many important add-ons. Apart from that here is the link to your reception points in case of any emergencies.
24. Keep your belongings safe while enjoying French delicacies.
While sitting outside in a restaurant and enjoying your meal; Remember to always keep your belongings safe. Many times people just pick up phones or other valuables and runoff.
25. The Gold Ring Scam
The Gold Ring Scam is famous in Paris and many people fall victim to it. A person walking by will pick up a gold ring and ask if it is yours and by the time you say no they will pester you for money. Similarly, some people will put a bracelet on your hand claiming it to be free and then they’ll ask you for money.
26. Do not buy tickets from any stranger.
They mostly offer tickets claiming to be unused but they are usually expired or fake. Always buy tickets from an authentic place or website.
27. Don’t fall for fake Service scams
Usually, restaurants will offer you a nice front-row table with an exotic bottle of champagne and treat you very nicely. But remember that it is a scam and they will charge you double or triple what you had. So always negotiate beforehand.
28. Order from Menu in the French Language
The menu in English generally costs higher than that in French. Therefore always go for the French menu first and then compare it to the English one. The English rates may cost you up to 30% more than the French ones.
29. Be careful with people asking for help and distracting you.
They usually work in teams and while one is distracting you the other will definitely try to snatch your belongings.
30. Paris is a heavily crowded place.
Places like the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre Museum have long queues in which you’ve to wait for 2-3 hours. If you’re Claustrophobic then certainly Paris isn’t for you. You can go around the less touristy places.
“Paris is always a good idea.”
Audrey Hepburn
Yes. Paris is one of the cities that everyone wants to visit once in their lifetime. From its splendid architecture to chic fashion and vibrant nightlife, Paris has it all. Every place has its own pros and cons. But it is better to accept it and make some plans to tackle it peacefully.
After reading so many instructions you might start to reconsider your visit to Paris. But, before you decide anything take a look at the places which you will be visiting in Paris.
8 Best Places in Paris Where you should never look like a Tourist
1. Eiffel Tower
The star attraction of Paris is well worth seeing in the day and the night as well. You can picnic on the lawns of the Eiffel Tower and even take the elevator up to the top to get a mesmerizing view of the city. There also are some restaurants on the first floor. This is the most iconic landmark in France.
Best Time to Visit Eiffel Tower
- From Inside: Daytime
- From Outside: Evening or Night
2. The Louvre
The world’s largest art museum was once a palace for the king of France. You can spend as much time as you want there and even days if you are into art. Leonardo Da Vinci’s Mona Lisa is on display there. It is advised to take a Skip-The-Line Tour as the entry line can take up to 4 hours or more.
- Best Time to visit: Noon
3. Arc de Triomphe
Similar to the India Gate in Delhi, India, this is a war memorial. It honours those Bravehearts who fought for their country, France. The names of the people who died in the French Revolution and Napoleon Wars are all written in French. The grand architecture makes people run like crazy to get inside the structure.
4. Sacré Couer Basilica(Sacred Heard Basilica)
This is a church situated high on a hill. It overlooks the city of Paris. The view from the top is stunning. The details on the ceiling are intricate and intriguing. As it is free to visit, feel free to go inside and say a prayer. Historical and sacred, this site is revered among people.
Did you know that there is a Sacred Heart Basilica in an Indian City as well? Can you guess the name of the city? It is known as the French Riviera of the East. Check out the Top 14 places to visit in Pondicherry.
5. River Seine
Remember Javert, from the famous Victor Hugo novel Les Misérables? Yes, the antagonist policeman who finally committed suicide by drowning in the river? Well, Well.. this is that river. Also known as the “Love River”, this River is famous for its romantic cruise. You can also take a walk or ride a bike along the banks of the river which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
6. Notre Dame Cathedral
The famous grand medieval Catholic cathedral, Notre Dame De Paris literally means “our lady of Paris”. Made out of limestone, this wonder was constructed in 1182. And it is a marvel of French Gothic Architecture. Dedicated to the worship of the Virgin Mary, the church held many Biblical Relics such as the Crown of Thorns, a Nail from the Cross and a Silver from the Cross. The cathedral was heavily damaged during the fire of 2019. It is still closed to the public and under renovation. December 2024 will probably be the time until the church is closed.
7. Catacombs
If you love dark history, then you should not miss this place. Over 6 million Parisians were buried here when the cemeteries of Paris were overflowing with dead bodies. While entering the catacombs you will read a sign saying “Stop! This is the empire of Death”. Visitors have to wait in a long queue (about a mile long) to get into the catacombs. But it will be worth waiting for.
8. Palais Garnier
It is a grand opera house in Paris. From the outside, it looks like a grand historical structure but from the inside, it is even better. The architecture is a marvel here, really stunning work just for an opera house. You’ll be amazed when you enter the theatre. If you get a chance to watch an opera being performed, make sure to do so.
Takeaways
Whatever you do in Paris or wherever you go, you will be awestruck by its charm, valiant history, colourful atmosphere, romantic air and lip-smacking cuisines. You will leave a part of your heart in this city. The City of Love will fill you up with love and peace and tons of memories to reminisce for your whole life. If this article helped you to plan your visit, then make sure to read more of our content and share it with friends.
FAQ’S =》
Q1. Is a Visa required to visit Paris?
Ans. Yes. You need to apply for a Schengen Visa. It is better to apply for your visa at least a month or two before your visit as it takes time to process.
Q2. What is the best time to visit Paris?
Ans. March to May is the peak season for tourists to visit Paris. You can experience the spring in full bloom. If you want to experience summer in Paris then you can visit from June to August.
Q3. How to reach Paris?
Ans. The best way to reach Paris is by Air. Paris is well connected by direct flights from all major countries. Paris is also well connected by Rail to all European countries.
Q4. How many airports does Paris have?
Ans. Paris has 3 main airports. Charles De Gaulle International Airport (CDG) is the main one. The other two are the Orly and Beauvais airports.
Q5. Is Paris expensive?
Ans. Yes. Paris is an expensive city. Therefore make sure to plan your budget beforehand.
Q6. What is the currency used in Paris?
Ans. Euro is the accepted currency. Franc is no longer in use.
Q7. How to explore the city of Paris?
Ans. Paris can be easily explored by metro, taxi, bicycle, car and foot. Exploring the city by foot can be one of the best ways to explore the city. RER/METRO is also a cheap and feasible way to get into the city.
Q8. Where to stay in Paris?
Ans. Stay anywhere near a Metro Station as it will be a bit cheaper. If you want to stay in a more centralized location then stay preferably near the Paris Opera House.
Q9. What is the Paris Visite Pass?
Ans. The Paris Visite travel pass is valid for 1 to 5 days which allows you to travel anywhere in Paris. It also allows the use of all the public transport. E.g.: the metro, tramway, bus, RER and SNCF Transilien networks.
Q10. What is the language used in Paris?
Ans. French is the language used in Paris. There are people who speak English. French people in general, do not like anyone speaking in English. So keep in mind to learn some French.
Q11. Is Paris safe?
Ans. Being the capital of France, it is quite a safe city. But Paris has a very serious problem with pickpockets. So be extra careful and keep your guard up always.
Q12. How should I dress in Paris?
Ans. Paris is often referred to as the “Fashion Capital of the World”. But honestly, French people don’t care about how you dress. They are just normal people like everyone else.
Q13. How many days are enough to explore Paris?
Ans. 5-6 days are ideal to explore Paris.
Q14. How much money do I need for Paris?
Ans. It may cost around $5,000 to $10,000/ ₹4,13,096.75 to ₹8,26,193.50 per person for a 5-day trip to Paris.
