{"id":23552,"date":"2017-10-19T18:23:43","date_gmt":"2017-10-19T17:23:43","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.france-hotel-guide.com\/en\/blog\/?p=23552"},"modified":"2025-11-29T15:11:11","modified_gmt":"2025-11-29T14:11:11","slug":"outdated-paris-tips","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.france-hotel-guide.com\/en\/blog\/outdated-paris-tips\/","title":{"rendered":"17 Outdated Paris Travel Tips That Don\u2019t Work Anymore"},"content":{"rendered":"

The City of Light is filled with incredible sights, sounds, and experiences. But not all Paris travel advice is as helpful as it used to be. Some tips that may have been useful years ago are now outdated and could keep you from making the most of your trip.<\/p>\n

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1. Don\u2019t Speak English \u2013 Parisians Won\u2019t Like It<\/h2>\n

In the past, it was common advice to avoid speaking English in Paris to seem more polite.<\/p>\n

But today, most Parisians, especially in tourist areas, speak at least a bit of English.<\/p>\n

Even if your French isn\u2019t perfect, people appreciate polite attempts, and they\u2019re used to visitors from all over the world.<\/p>\n

Starting with \u201cBonjour\u201d (hello) and \u201cMerci\u201d (thank you) is always a nice gesture, but it\u2019s okay to use English if you need to.<\/p>\n

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2. The M\u00e9tro is Too Confusing for Tourists \u2013 Stick to Taxis<\/h2>\n

The Paris M\u00e9tro might look like a maze at first, but it\u2019s actually a very efficient way to get around.<\/p>\n

The M\u00e9tro is fast, affordable, and has stops near almost every major attraction.<\/p>\n

Plus, with modern navigation apps, it\u2019s easier than ever to figure out where to go.<\/p>\n

Many signs are in both French and English, and apps like Google Maps or Citymapper can help you find your way around.<\/p>\n

Taxis can be convenient, but the M\u00e9tro often gets you there faster and for a fraction of the price.<\/p>\n

\"paris
The metro is not that complicated, convenient, and cheap<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

 <\/p>\n

3. Dress Formally to Blend In<\/h2>\n

You might have heard that Parisians dress formally and that tourists should too.<\/p>\n

While it\u2019s true that Parisians appreciate style, you don\u2019t have to dress as if you\u2019re attending a formal event to blend in. In fact, Parisian fashion has become more relaxed, with people wearing stylish but comfortable clothing.<\/p>\n

You\u2019ll see everything from jeans to sneakers and colorful clothing, especially in younger, artsy neighborhoods.<\/p>\n

As long as you feel good in what you\u2019re wearing, you\u2019ll fit right in.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

4. Never Visit Montmartre at Night<\/h2>\n

Montmartre is one of Paris\u2019s most charming neighborhoods, and it\u2019s even more magical at night.<\/p>\n

Once thought to be unsafe after dark, Montmartre has become a lively area in the evenings, with caf\u00e9s, restaurants, and street performers creating a vibrant atmosphere.<\/p>\n

Whether you\u2019re taking in the view from Sacr\u00e9-C\u0153ur or exploring the little side streets, Montmartre at night is now a popular and safe spot for both tourists and locals.<\/p>\n

\"sacre
You would miss out!<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

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5. Avoid Smiling at Strangers to Blend In<\/h2>\n

Parisians have a reputation for being reserved, which led to the tip that you shouldn\u2019t smile at strangers. While people in Paris may be a bit more private, they\u2019re friendly and used to visitors, so a warm smile or a friendly \u201cBonjour\u201d is welcome.<\/p>\n

Smiling at a passerby or at your waiter is perfectly fine and can even help create a friendly atmosphere during your stay.<\/p>\n

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6. Skip the Seine River Cruises \u2013 They\u2019re Only for Tourists<\/h2>\n

Seine river cruises have become a popular way to see Paris from a unique perspective, and they\u2019re not just for tourists anymore. Many locals enjoy these cruises, especially evening ones that offer a beautiful view of Paris at sunset.<\/p>\n

Today, there are several types of river cruises to choose from. You\u2019ll find options like champagne cruises<\/a>, which offer drinks and light bites as you glide past iconic landmarks, and dinner cruises<\/a>, where the quality of food has significantly improved, making them a wonderful way to enjoy Parisian cuisine with a view.<\/p>\n

A boat ride down the Seine lets you take in major sights like the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame, and the Louvre from the water\u2014an experience even locals love.<\/p>\n

So, don\u2019t skip the river cruise if you\u2019re interested! It\u2019s a fun, memorable way to see the city from a different angle.<\/p>\n

\"dinner
A delightful dinner cruise with live music on Bateaux Mouches<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

 <\/p>\n

7. Don\u2019t Visit Paris in August \u2013 The City Shuts Down<\/h2>\n

Years ago, it was common for Parisians to leave the city in August for vacation, and many businesses would close.<\/p>\n

While this is still partly true, it\u2019s much less common now.<\/p>\n

More shops, restaurants, and attractions stay open year-round, especially in areas popular with tourists. August has even become a fun time to visit, with special events and fewer crowds at some attractions.<\/p>\n

So if August is your only option, don\u2019t worry\u2014you\u2019ll still find plenty to do in Paris.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

8. Bring Lots of Cash<\/h2>\n

Years ago, carrying cash in Paris was a must because many places didn\u2019t accept credit cards.<\/p>\n

Today, however, cash isn\u2019t as necessary. Most shops, restaurants, and attractions now accept credit cards and even contactless payments like Apple Pay.<\/p>\n

Not only is using a card easier, but it\u2019s also safer than carrying large amounts of cash, especially with Paris\u2019s busy tourist areas.<\/p>\n

It\u2019s still a good idea to have some cash for small purchases, but you don\u2019t need to carry a lot.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

9. Dress in All Black to Blend in with the Locals<\/h2>\n

The advice to dress in all black to blend in is no longer true.<\/p>\n

While Parisians have a reputation for liking black clothing, you\u2019ll see people wearing all kinds of colors and styles, especially in neighborhoods like Belleville and Le Marais.<\/p>\n

Parisians are known for their individual style, but you don\u2019t have to wear only black to fit in. In today\u2019s Paris, feel free to bring some color into your wardrobe!<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

10. Don\u2019t Rent a Bike; Paris Traffic is Too Intense<\/h2>\n

It used to be common advice to avoid biking in Paris because of heavy traffic, but that\u2019s outdated now.<\/p>\n

Paris has become a very bike-friendly city, with dedicated bike lanes and the popular V\u00e9lib\u2019 bike rental system, which allows you to rent bikes from stations all over the city.<\/p>\n

Biking is now one of the best ways to see Paris up close, giving you more freedom to explore different neighborhoods at your own pace.<\/p>\n

The bike lanes help make cycling safer and easier than ever.<\/p>\n

\"bike
A bike lane in Paris<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

 <\/p>\n

11. Paris Isn\u2019t Safe at Night<\/h2>\n

Some people still say that Paris isn\u2019t safe at night, but like any big city, it depends on where you go.<\/p>\n

Most tourist areas, like the Champs-\u00c9lys\u00e9es, Montmartre, and Saint-Germain, stay lively and safe well into the evening.<\/p>\n

Parisians themselves enjoy nighttime activities, from late dinners to evening strolls, and these areas are well-lit and active.<\/p>\n

Of course, it\u2019s always wise to stay aware of your surroundings, but Paris is generally a safe city to explore at night.<\/p>\n

Related topic<\/strong>: Paris Safety Guide: Areas to Avoid at Night<\/a><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

12. Never Take Photos Inside Churches<\/h2>\n

Many people once believed that taking photos inside churches in Paris was strictly forbidden, but today, it\u2019s allowed in most churches as long as you don\u2019t use flash.<\/p>\n

Churches like Notre-Dame, Sacr\u00e9-C\u0153ur, and Sainte-Chapelle welcome visitors and photographers, and they understand that people want to capture the beauty of these historic sites.<\/p>\n

Always check for specific signs, but don\u2019t hesitate to take non-flash photos if it\u2019s allowed.<\/p>\n

\"sainte
Who would want to miss that photo?<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

 <\/p>\n

13. The Best Way to See the Eiffel Tower Is to Go Up It<\/h2>\n

While going up the Eiffel Tower is an amazing experience, it\u2019s not the only way to get a great view of Paris.<\/p>\n

Many people now recommend viewing the Eiffel Tower from nearby spots like Trocad\u00e9ro, Montparnasse Tower, Arc de Triomphe or even from a Seine river cruise.<\/p>\n

These locations give you the chance to see the tower in all its glory and to take fantastic photos. Plus, they\u2019re often less crowded than the Eiffel Tower\u2019s own viewing platforms.<\/p>\n

\"view
From the top of the Arc de Triomphe<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

 <\/p>\n

14. Only Buy Pastries from Famous Bakeries<\/h2>\n

Paris is known for its world-famous bakeries, and places like Pierre Herm\u00e9, Ladur\u00e9e, and Poil\u00e2ne are legendary for their pastries, bread, and desserts.<\/p>\n

These renowned spots have become must-visit destinations, especially for treats like macarons, croissants, and pain au chocolat.<\/p>\n

But you don\u2019t have to stick to only the well-known places for great pastries. Some of the best croissants, baguettes, and other treats can be found in small neighborhood boulangeries that Parisians frequent daily.<\/p>\n

These local bakeries are often more affordable and can be less crowded than the famous spots. So, don\u2019t hesitate to try a pastry from the nearest boulangerie\u2014you might just discover a hidden gem!<\/p>\n

\"croissant\"
Just another “normal” croissant I bought from a regular bakery. De-li-cious.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

 <\/p>\n

15. Stay Away from Tourist Sites to Find Good Food<\/h2>\n

The idea that you need to avoid tourist areas to find good food isn\u2019t true anymore.<\/p>\n

While some places near big attractions may be overpriced, there are plenty of great restaurants near popular sites.<\/p>\n

For example, Le Fumoir<\/em> near the Louvre offers a cozy atmosphere and refined French cuisine, while Les Ombres<\/em> near the Eiffel Tower serves elegant dishes with a fantastic view of the tower itself. Near Notre-Dame, Au Vieux Paris d\u2019Arcole <\/em>is a charming spot with a classic Parisian vibe and excellent food.<\/p>\n

A bit of research can help you find high-quality spots near these landmarks and others.<\/p>\n

Paris\u2019s food scene has grown to include wonderful options at all price points, so don\u2019t feel the need to avoid certain areas just to get a good meal.<\/p>\n

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A post shared by Au Vieux Paris d\u2019Arcole (@au_vieux_paris)<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/blockquote>\n