- Admin
- Jun 22, 2025
- Tourist Traps
5 Tourist Traps to Avoid in Paris (and What to Do Instead)
Avoid the most common tourist traps in Paris and discover smarter, more local-friendly alternatives for an authentic experience in the City of Light.
Paris is one of the most visited cities in the world — and unfortunately, that makes it a hotspot for tourist traps. Here are five to avoid during your trip, along with better options to enjoy the real Paris.
1. Buying souvenirs near the Eiffel Tower
Street vendors and tourist shops near the Eiffel Tower often sell cheap or overpriced trinkets. Many are made far from France. For more original and better-priced souvenirs, try small artisan shops in Montmartre or the Marais.
2. Restaurants with plastic menus and food photos
If you see menus with pictures, multilingual options, and waiters pulling you in from the street — beware. These spots near Notre-Dame, Sacré-Cœur, or the Champs-Élysées often serve overpriced and poor-quality food. Walk a few blocks away and look for where locals eat.
3. Petition scams along the Seine
Someone approaches you with a petition in English — maybe for the deaf or a women’s cause. While you’re distracted, a partner may try to pick your pocket. Don’t engage. Just say “no” and keep walking.
4. Unofficial taxis at train stations
At Gare du Nord or the airports, drivers without meters might offer you a “fixed rate”. It usually means you’ll pay double the standard fare. Always use official taxi lines or rideshare apps like Uber or Bolt.
5. Expensive rooftop bars
Sure, the view from a Paris rooftop is amazing… but is the €20 cocktail really worth it? For great views without the price tag, head to Montparnasse Tower, Parc de Belleville, or rooftop spots in less touristy districts.
ParisGo Tip:
To avoid tourist traps, think like a local. Walk, take the metro, trust real reviews, and use ParisGo to find honest places worth your time (and money).
Share on