{"id":21617,"date":"2017-10-24T17:28:42","date_gmt":"2017-10-24T16:28:42","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.france-hotel-guide.com\/en\/blog\/?p=21617"},"modified":"2024-10-14T13:21:36","modified_gmt":"2024-10-14T12:21:36","slug":"worst-tourist-traps-paris","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.france-hotel-guide.com\/en\/blog\/worst-tourist-traps-paris\/","title":{"rendered":"The 3 Worst Tourist Traps in Paris According to Online Reviews"},"content":{"rendered":"

Paris, the City of Light, is a leading destination for lovers of art, culture, architecture and cuisine.<\/p>\n

But beware of overly touristy places, which can sometimes hold nasty surprises… Between endless lines, oppressive crowds and exorbitant prices, some legendary places have lost some of their former glory<\/b>.<\/p>\n

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1. Caf\u00e9 de Flore<\/h2>\n
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The famous Caf\u00e9 de Flore’s terrace \u2013 Photo Credits: Blowing Puffer Fish<\/a> via Creative Commons 2.0<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

If you’re visiting Paris, the Caf\u00e9 de Flore is probably already on your list. It’s a legendary institution <\/b>nestled in the chic Saint-Germain-des-Pr\u00e9s district<\/b>. It’s where writers, philosophers, and artists have gathered for decades. But be warned, it’s not quite the quiet, intellectual place it once was.<\/p>\n

Today, you’re likely to find an endless line<\/b> of tourists, all eager to take their Instagram photos in front of the iconic storefront. A table on the terrace is often harder to find than a ticket to a sold-out concert.<\/p>\n

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And unfortunately, once you’ve settled in, the experience doesn’t get any better.<\/p>\n

The prices can make you cringe<\/b>, especially for the expected quality, which just isn’t there.<\/p>\n

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And to top it all off, a few people have even reported seeing mice<\/b>, which is not the experience you want to take with you from Paris.<\/p>\n

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If you prefer a quality caf\u00e9 to an iconic photo, explore the adjacent streets and avoid the tourist trap that the Caf\u00e9 de Flore has become. Here, you’ll find caf\u00e9s that are less crowded, but just as charming.<\/p>\n

For example, try visiting Procope<\/a>, a historic institution serving authentic French cuisine, or Caf\u00e9 d’Auteur<\/a>, a specialty coffee<\/b> roaster. You’ll find a much more pleasant atmosphere and warmer service<\/b>.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

2. Sacr\u00e9-C\u0153ur Basilica<\/h2>\n
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The Sacr\u00e9-Coeur Basilica is crowded but that’s not it<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The Sacr\u00e9-C\u0153ur Basilica is one of Paris’s architectural gems<\/b>, perched atop Butte Montmartre. It offers breathtaking panoramic views <\/b>over the whole city, but its charm also attracts a lot of people! Perhaps, too many.<\/p>\n

As you approach the basilica, you’ll be stunned by the sheer number of visitors<\/b>. Dreaming of admiring the superb white fa\u00e7ade? Be prepared to see it engulfed by crowds<\/b>, especially at sunset.<\/p>\n

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Next, watch out for pickpockets<\/b>!<\/p>\n

Remain vigilant, as they often hide in the crowd. Keep your belongings safe <\/b>and don’t be distracted by the incredible views.<\/p>\n

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Around the Basilica, you’ll also come across numerous hawkers <\/b>selling all sorts of souvenirs and gadgets.<\/p>\n

Although some items are nice, you can probably find them cheaper elsewhere.<\/p>\n

Learn to say \u201cnon, merci<\/b>\u201d (no, thanks<\/i>), if you’re not interested.<\/p>\n

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Here are a few tips to make your visit as carefree as possible:<\/b><\/p>\n