Just Hitting the Eiffel Tower and Louvre
Sure, the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre are on every postcard, but Paris is way more than just these two spots. Lots of people come here, stand in line for hours, and then leave without seeing the city’s quieter treasures—the Musée de l’Orangerie, the Rodin Museum, or even a stroll along Canal Saint-Martin. When you step away from the big-ticket sights, you see a whole new side of Paris. It’s less crowded, more real.
Tip: Mix the big names with some laid-back neighborhoods and smaller museums if you want to really get a feel for the city.
Not Booking Ahead
Paris gets swamped with visitors, and places like the Louvre, Versailles, and the Catacombs can sell out weeks ahead. It’s easy to think you can just show up, but that’s how people end up wasting hours in line—or missing out entirely.
Tip: Lock in your museum tickets, tours, and dinner bookings before you land. It saves you the hassle and a lot of frustration
Eating Right Next to Tourist Sights
Grab a meal by Notre-Dame or the Champs-Élysées and you’ll probably end up with an overpriced, forgettable lunch. It’s tempting to go for convenience, but you’ll skip what Paris does best—good food in cozy places.
Tip: Wander a few blocks away from the crowds. That’s where you’ll find the bistros and bakeries locals actually love. Paris is packed with food gems, but you do have to look for them.
Trying to Do Everything
This city can wear you out, fast. So many folks try to see it all in three days, racing from one attraction to the next. Before long, it stops being fun.
Tip: Slow down. Sit in a café and just watch the world go by. Hang out in a park or browse a street market. Paris isn’t a checklist—it’s best when you let it surprise you.
Skipping Out on French Etiquette
Assuming everyone speaks English and skipping French basics doesn’t go over well here. Not saying “Bonjour” when you walk into a shop? People notice. It’s not about perfect French—it’s about trying.
Tip: Pick up a few words: “Bonjour,” “Merci,” “S’il vous plaît.” Even if your accent’s terrible, Parisians usually appreciate the effort.
Falling for Tourist Traps
Paris has its fair share—overpriced boat tours, souvenir shops selling the same old keychains, restaurants with menus in five languages and flashing lights. Dive into these and you’ll miss the real stuff.
Tip: Do a little homework before you go. Check out artisan boutiques, up-and-coming designers, or a classic neighborhood café instead of the usual tourist stops.
Messing Up Transportation
The Paris metro is fantastic, but plenty of people avoid it or use it wrong. Some spend way too much on taxis, others forget to validate their tickets and end up with a fine. Walking above ground? It always takes longer than you think.
Tip: Grab a multi-day metro pass, always validate your tickets, and get ready to walk a lot. Seriously—comfortable shoes make all the difference.
Missing the Seine at Night
Paris after dark is a whole different world. Lots of visitors just do the daytime thing and skip out before the city really starts to glow. That means missing the Eiffel Tower lighting up, late-night walks by the river, or the buzz of Paris nightlife.
Tip: Make time for at least one evening out. Whether it’s a stroll along the Seine or a jazz bar in Saint-Germain, Paris at night is something you’ll remember.
Forgetting How Pricey Paris Is
Paris isn’t cheap, and costs can sneak up on you—meals, museum entries, even a simple coffee. Lots of people also tip like they do in the States and end up overspending.
Tip: Set a realistic budget, look for set-price menus, and remember—service is included in restaurants. A small tip is nice but totally optional.
Sticking to the Center
Central Paris is beautiful, but it’s only part of the story. If you never leave the main sights, you’ll miss neighborhoods like Belleville, Canal Saint-Martin, or Parc des Buttes-Chaumont. These places have colorful street art, amazing food, and a whole lot more local flavor—without the crowds.
Tip: Get out of the center. Every arrondissement has its own personality, and exploring a little further out shows you a side of Paris most tourists never see.
