{"id":24454,"date":"2018-09-28T19:07:24","date_gmt":"2018-09-28T18:07:24","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.france-hotel-guide.com\/en\/blog\/?p=24454"},"modified":"2025-01-17T19:12:19","modified_gmt":"2025-01-17T18:12:19","slug":"paris-rookie-mistakes","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.france-hotel-guide.com\/en\/blog\/paris-rookie-mistakes\/","title":{"rendered":"19 Rookie Mistakes to AVOID in Paris!"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>Visiting Paris is a dream for many, but even the most seasoned travelers can fall into a few common traps. These rookie mistakes can make your trip more stressful, expensive, or less enjoyable. Here\u2019s my guide to help you avoid them and make the most of your Parisian adventure!<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h2>1. Dining Right Next to Major Tourist Attractions<\/h2>\n<figure id=\"attachment_24458\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-24458\" style=\"width: 740px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-24458 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.france-hotel-guide.com\/en\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/bsitrot-cafe-paris.jpg\" alt=\"bistrot cafe paris\" width=\"750\" height=\"1147\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.france-hotel-guide.com\/en\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/bsitrot-cafe-paris.jpg 750w, https:\/\/www.france-hotel-guide.com\/en\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/bsitrot-cafe-paris-311x475.jpg 311w, https:\/\/www.france-hotel-guide.com\/en\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/bsitrot-cafe-paris-670x1024.jpg 670w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-24458\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Walk a few blocks and you&#8217;ll find this kind of authentic bistrot<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>Restaurants near landmarks like the Eiffel Tower or Notre-Dame often rely on their location rather than quality.<\/p>\n<p>Meals tend to be overpriced and underwhelming, catering to tourists rather than locals.<\/p>\n<p>To enjoy authentic French food, venture a few blocks away into quieter streets.<\/p>\n<p>Look for bistros filled with locals, not just tourists, and don\u2019t be afraid to ask for recommendations. This way, you\u2019ll get a real taste of Paris without breaking the bank.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h2>2. Not Learning Basic French Phrases<\/h2>\n<p>A simple \u201cBonjour\u201d when you enter a shop or caf\u00e9 can make all the difference.<\/p>\n<p>Parisians value politeness, and not using greetings may come across as rude.<\/p>\n<p>While many Parisians speak English, showing effort in French\u2014like \u201cMerci\u201d (thank you) or \u201cPardon\u201d (excuse me)\u2014often earns you better treatment.<\/p>\n<p>Apps like Duolingo can help you learn the basics before your trip, making your interactions smoother and more enjoyable.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h2>3. Trying to See the Louvre in One Day<\/h2>\n<figure id=\"attachment_24459\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-24459\" style=\"width: 739px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-24459\" src=\"https:\/\/www.france-hotel-guide.com\/en\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/louvre-huge.jpg\" alt=\"louvre\" width=\"749\" height=\"379\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.france-hotel-guide.com\/en\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/louvre-huge.jpg 749w, https:\/\/www.france-hotel-guide.com\/en\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/louvre-huge-475x240.jpg 475w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 749px) 100vw, 749px\" \/><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-24459\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">In case you don&#8217;t know, the Louvre is HUGE<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>With over 35,000 artworks, the Louvre is a massive museum that\u2019s impossible to see in a single visit.<\/p>\n<p>Attempting to do so will leave you exhausted and overwhelmed.<\/p>\n<p>Instead, plan ahead by choosing specific sections or iconic works like the Coronation of Napoleon and the Winged Victory of Samothrace.<\/p>\n<p>You can even split your visit across multiple days if you have the time.<\/p>\n<p>Focused exploration makes the experience more enjoyable and memorable.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Related read: <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.france-hotel-guide.com\/en\/blog\/2-hour-louvre\/\" rel=\"\">2-Hour Visit at the Louvre: My Must-sees Short Itinerary<\/a><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h2>4. Falling for Common Scams<\/h2>\n<figure id=\"attachment_23708\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-23708\" style=\"width: 890px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-23708 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.france-hotel-guide.com\/en\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/paris-safety.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"900\" height=\"645\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.france-hotel-guide.com\/en\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/paris-safety.jpg 900w, https:\/\/www.france-hotel-guide.com\/en\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/paris-safety-475x340.jpg 475w, https:\/\/www.france-hotel-guide.com\/en\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/paris-safety-768x550.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 900px) 100vw, 900px\" \/><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-23708\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">The petition scam<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>Petition signers, friendship bracelet sellers, and fake \u201cgold ring\u201d scams are common around tourist hotspots like Montmartre and the Eiffel Tower.<\/p>\n<p>These distractions often lead to pickpocketing.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-24463\" src=\"https:\/\/www.france-hotel-guide.com\/en\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/louvre-pickpocket.jpg\" alt=\"louvre pickpocket\" width=\"750\" height=\"678\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.france-hotel-guide.com\/en\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/louvre-pickpocket.jpg 750w, https:\/\/www.france-hotel-guide.com\/en\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/louvre-pickpocket-475x429.jpg 475w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><\/p>\n<p>Stay vigilant and avoid engaging.<\/p>\n<p>Another scam involves unauthorized taxi drivers at airports or train stations who overcharge.<\/p>\n<p>Always book official transport or use ride-sharing apps like Uber.<\/p>\n<p>By being cautious, you can enjoy Paris without unnecessary stress or losses.<\/p>\n<p><strong>More details:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.france-hotel-guide.com\/en\/blog\/common-scams-paris\/\" rel=\"\">5 Common Scams in Paris Tourists Are Falling For Every Day<\/a><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h2>5. Booking Accommodations Far from the City Center<\/h2>\n<figure id=\"attachment_22948\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-22948\" style=\"width: 610px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-22948\" src=\"https:\/\/www.france-hotel-guide.com\/en\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/hotel-le-cercle-1.jpg\" alt=\"Balcony of the H\u00f4tel Le Cercle\" width=\"620\" height=\"413\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.france-hotel-guide.com\/en\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/hotel-le-cercle-1.jpg 620w, https:\/\/www.france-hotel-guide.com\/en\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/hotel-le-cercle-1-475x316.jpg 475w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 620px) 100vw, 620px\" \/><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-22948\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Okay, I\u2019m not saying you need a balcony with a view, but staying in a central Paris hotel is a must<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>Staying on the outskirts of Paris may seem like a good way to save money, but the time and cost of commuting quickly add up.<\/p>\n<p>Plus, you\u2019ll miss out on the charm of waking up in a Parisian neighborhood.<\/p>\n<p>Choose areas like Le Marais, Saint-Germain-des-Pr\u00e9s, or the Latin Quarter for a mix of convenience, safety, and authentic Parisian vibes.<\/p>\n<p>Staying central allows you to maximize your sightseeing time.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Related read:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.france-hotel-guide.com\/en\/blog\/where-to-stay-in-paris-best-areas-and-neighborhoods\/\" rel=\"\">Where to Stay in Paris? Guide to Best Neighborhoods<\/a><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h2>6. Standing in Long Lines for Overpriced Ladur\u00e9e, Angelina, or Caf\u00e9 de Flore<strong><br \/>\n<\/strong><\/h2>\n<figure id=\"attachment_23706\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-23706\" style=\"width: 739px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-23706\" src=\"https:\/\/www.france-hotel-guide.com\/en\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/queue-angelina.jpg\" alt=\"queues at angelina\" width=\"749\" height=\"435\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.france-hotel-guide.com\/en\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/queue-angelina.jpg 749w, https:\/\/www.france-hotel-guide.com\/en\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/queue-angelina-475x276.jpg 475w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 749px) 100vw, 749px\" \/><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-23706\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Queues at Angelina<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>Ladur\u00e9e\u2019s macarons, Angelina\u2019s hot chocolate, and Caf\u00e9 de Flore\u2019s iconic allure are famous but often come with long queues and tourist prices.<\/p>\n<p>While these spots are historic, the experience may feel rushed or commercialized.<\/p>\n<p>Skip the crowds by visiting lesser-known locations or alternatives like Pierre Herm\u00e9 for macarons, Carette for hot chocolate, or local caf\u00e9s with authentic charm.<\/p>\n<p>These spots often offer higher quality and a more relaxed atmosphere. You\u2019ll enjoy Parisian treats without wasting precious time waiting in line.<\/p>\n<figure id=\"attachment_24465\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-24465\" style=\"width: 740px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-24465\" src=\"https:\/\/www.france-hotel-guide.com\/en\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/overpriced-cafe-de-flore-bill.jpg\" alt=\"overpriced cafe de flore bill\" width=\"750\" height=\"938\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.france-hotel-guide.com\/en\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/overpriced-cafe-de-flore-bill.jpg 750w, https:\/\/www.france-hotel-guide.com\/en\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/overpriced-cafe-de-flore-bill-380x475.jpg 380w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-24465\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">This is double what you\u2019d spend at a regular caf\u00e9.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h2>7. Buying a Paris Pass or Museum Pass Without Planning<\/h2>\n<p>The Paris Pass and Museum Pass can be worthwhile, but only if you plan to visit enough attractions to justify the cost.<\/p>\n<p>Without proper planning, you might not get your money\u2019s worth.<\/p>\n<p>Research which attractions are included and compare individual ticket prices.<\/p>\n<p>These passes are great for art lovers visiting multiple museums but may not be ideal if you prefer outdoor attractions or slower-paced sightseeing.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h2>8. Visiting Versailles on Weekends<\/h2>\n<figure id=\"attachment_22111\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-22111\" style=\"width: 610px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-22111\" src=\"https:\/\/www.france-hotel-guide.com\/en\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/versailles-1.jpg\" alt=\"versailles\" width=\"620\" height=\"414\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.france-hotel-guide.com\/en\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/versailles-1.jpg 620w, https:\/\/www.france-hotel-guide.com\/en\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/versailles-1-475x317.jpg 475w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 620px) 100vw, 620px\" \/><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-22111\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Isn&#8217;t Versailles better without the crowds?<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>Versailles is one of the most visited attractions near Paris, and weekends are the busiest times, with massive crowds filling the palace and gardens.<\/p>\n<p>This can make the experience feel rushed and less enjoyable.<\/p>\n<p>If possible, visit midweek for a quieter atmosphere.<\/p>\n<p>Booking tickets in advance and arriving early in the morning will help you skip long lines and fully appreciate this royal masterpiece.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h2>9. Taking the Taxi from the Airport<\/h2>\n<figure id=\"attachment_23944\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-23944\" style=\"width: 726px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-23944\" src=\"https:\/\/www.france-hotel-guide.com\/en\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/rer-sign-cgd.jpg\" alt=\"rer sign cgd\" width=\"736\" height=\"552\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.france-hotel-guide.com\/en\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/rer-sign-cgd.jpg 736w, https:\/\/www.france-hotel-guide.com\/en\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/rer-sign-cgd-475x356.jpg 475w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 736px) 100vw, 736px\" \/><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-23944\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Just follow these signs&#8230;<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>Taxis from Charles de Gaulle or Orly Airport can cost \u20ac50\u201370, depending on traffic.<\/p>\n<p>Public transportation options like the RER train or the newly extended Metro Line 14 (for Orly) are cheaper, faster, and more reliable.<\/p>\n<p>They cost around \u20ac10 and take you directly to the city center in around 30-45 minutes.<\/p>\n<p>Unless you have heavy luggage or arrive late at night, taxis are rarely the best option.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h2>10.\u00a0Not Keeping The Metro Ticket Until the End<\/h2>\n<figure id=\"attachment_24161\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-24161\" style=\"width: 740px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-24161\" src=\"https:\/\/www.france-hotel-guide.com\/en\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/ticket-metro.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"750\" height=\"498\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.france-hotel-guide.com\/en\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/ticket-metro.jpg 750w, https:\/\/www.france-hotel-guide.com\/en\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/ticket-metro-475x315.jpg 475w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-24161\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Keep it until you exit the station<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>In Paris, you must keep your Metro or RER ticket until you\u2019ve exited the station.<\/p>\n<p>Random inspections by ticket controllers are common, and if you can\u2019t present a valid ticket, you risk a hefty fine\u2014even if you\u2019ve already used it.<\/p>\n<p>Avoid tossing your ticket after boarding and keep it handy until you\u2019re out of the station.<\/p>\n<p>If you\u2019re using a pass like Navigo Easy, ensure it\u2019s scanned properly.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h2>11. Overpacking and Struggling with Heavy Suitcases<\/h2>\n<p>Paris\u2019s cobblestone streets, Metro stairs, and narrow hotel elevators can make overpacking a nightmare.<\/p>\n<p>Many Metro stations lack escalators or elevators, so you\u2019ll likely need to carry your luggage.<\/p>\n<p>Pack light with versatile clothing, and consider layers to adapt to Paris\u2019s changing weather.<\/p>\n<p>A smaller suitcase not only makes navigating easier but also leaves room for souvenirs.<\/p>\n<p>If needed, Paris has laundry services and self-service laundromats to refresh your wardrobe during longer stays.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h2>12. Not Booking Main Attractions<\/h2>\n<p>Popular attractions like the Eiffel Tower, Louvre, and Catacombs often sell out days or weeks in advance.<\/p>\n<p>Showing up without tickets can mean long lines or missing out entirely.<\/p>\n<p>Plan ahead and book online to secure your spot and skip the queues.<\/p>\n<p>Some attractions offer timed-entry tickets, which are especially helpful for avoiding crowds during peak hours.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h2>13. Not Making Dinner Reservations in Advance<\/h2>\n<p>Many Parisian restaurants are small and have limited seating, especially bistros and Michelin-starred spots.<\/p>\n<p>Without a reservation, you might face long waits or be turned away entirely.<\/p>\n<p>Make reservations a few days in advance, especially for dinner.<\/p>\n<p>Apps like LaFourchette (TheFork) or calling directly make it easy to secure a table.<\/p>\n<p>Even casual places can get busy, so it\u2019s a good habit to check availability beforehand.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h2>14. Staying Inside Tourist Bubbles<\/h2>\n<figure id=\"attachment_24460\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-24460\" style=\"width: 740px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-24460\" src=\"https:\/\/www.france-hotel-guide.com\/en\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/canal-saint-martin-banks.jpg\" alt=\"canal saint martin banks\" width=\"750\" height=\"422\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.france-hotel-guide.com\/en\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/canal-saint-martin-banks.jpg 750w, https:\/\/www.france-hotel-guide.com\/en\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/canal-saint-martin-banks-475x267.jpg 475w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-24460\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Canal Saint-Martin is a spot many overlook<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>While landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and Champs-\u00c9lys\u00e9es are iconic, Paris\u2019s charm lies in exploring its neighborhoods.<\/p>\n<p>Venture into areas like <a href=\"https:\/\/www.france-hotel-guide.com\/en\/blog\/rue-de-belleville\/\">Belleville<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.france-hotel-guide.com\/en\/blog\/canal-saint-martin\/\">Canal Saint-Martin<\/a>, or Montmartre\u2019s quieter streets for a taste of local life.<\/p>\n<p>These areas have unique shops, hidden caf\u00e9s, and vibrant street art that reveal the true soul of Paris.<\/p>\n<p>Avoid spending your entire trip in tourist-heavy areas and discover the city\u2019s more authentic side.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Related read<\/strong>: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.france-hotel-guide.com\/en\/blog\/cool-areas-paris\/\" rel=\"\">13 Cool Areas to Visit in Paris (That You\u2019ve Never Heard Of)<\/a><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h2>15. Wearing Uncomfortable Shoes<\/h2>\n<figure id=\"attachment_24462\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-24462\" style=\"width: 680px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-24462 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.france-hotel-guide.com\/en\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/heels-on-cobelstones.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"690\" height=\"815\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.france-hotel-guide.com\/en\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/heels-on-cobelstones.jpg 690w, https:\/\/www.france-hotel-guide.com\/en\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/heels-on-cobelstones-402x475.jpg 402w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 690px) 100vw, 690px\" \/><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-24462\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Stylish but not a good idea<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>Paris is a city for walkers, with cobblestone streets, hilly areas like Montmartre, and plenty of stairs in Metro stations.<\/p>\n<p>Wearing high heels or unsupportive shoes will leave you with sore feet by the end of the day.<\/p>\n<p>Opt for comfortable yet stylish footwear like sneakers or cushioned flats.<\/p>\n<p>Break them in before your trip to avoid blisters.<\/p>\n<p>Comfortable shoes will help you enjoy the city\u2019s beauty without discomfort.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h2>16. Tipping Excessively<\/h2>\n<p>In Paris, service charges are included in your restaurant bill, meaning tipping isn\u2019t mandatory.<\/p>\n<p>Parisians usually round up or leave \u20ac1\u2013\u20ac2 for good service.<\/p>\n<p>Leaving American-style tips of 15\u201320% is unnecessary and may seem odd.<\/p>\n<p>Focus on enjoying your meal instead of worrying about tips.<\/p>\n<p>However, small gestures, like rounding up a taxi fare or tipping hotel staff, are always appreciated.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h2>17. Following Rigid Itineraries<\/h2>\n<figure id=\"attachment_23943\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-23943\" style=\"width: 740px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-23943\" src=\"https:\/\/www.france-hotel-guide.com\/en\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/overplanning.jpg\" alt=\"overplanning\" width=\"750\" height=\"563\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.france-hotel-guide.com\/en\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/overplanning.jpg 750w, https:\/\/www.france-hotel-guide.com\/en\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/overplanning-475x357.jpg 475w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-23943\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Don&#8217;t do this<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>Overplanning can make your trip feel like a checklist rather than an adventure.<\/p>\n<p>Paris is best enjoyed with flexibility\u2014leave time for spontaneous discoveries, like stumbling upon a hidden garden or a charming caf\u00e9.<\/p>\n<p>Build in gaps for relaxation or wandering, as these unplanned moments often become the most memorable.<\/p>\n<p>A loose itinerary allows you to adapt to weather, mood, or unexpected recommendations.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h2>18. Missing Out on \u201cMenus du Jour\u201d<\/h2>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-24111\" src=\"https:\/\/www.france-hotel-guide.com\/en\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sign-menu-du-jour.jpg\" alt=\"sign menu du jour\" width=\"750\" height=\"485\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.france-hotel-guide.com\/en\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sign-menu-du-jour.jpg 750w, https:\/\/www.france-hotel-guide.com\/en\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sign-menu-du-jour-475x307.jpg 475w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><\/p>\n<p>The \u201cmenu du jour\u201d (daily menu) is a staple of Parisian dining, offering a set menu of fresh, seasonal dishes at a great value.<\/p>\n<p>Often cheaper than ordering \u00e0 la carte, it\u2019s a chance to try authentic French cuisine without breaking the bank.<\/p>\n<p>Look for small bistros with handwritten menus to find the best options.<\/p>\n<p>These menus also provide a glimpse into what locals are eating that day.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h2>19. Standing on the Left Side of the Escalators<\/h2>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-22551\" src=\"https:\/\/www.france-hotel-guide.com\/en\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/paris-escalators.jpg\" alt=\"Escalator Paris\" width=\"620\" height=\"1102\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.france-hotel-guide.com\/en\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/paris-escalators.jpg 620w, https:\/\/www.france-hotel-guide.com\/en\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/paris-escalators-267x475.jpg 267w, https:\/\/www.france-hotel-guide.com\/en\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/paris-escalators-576x1024.jpg 576w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 620px) 100vw, 620px\" \/><\/p>\n<p>This isn\u2019t unique to Paris but applies to most big cities. In Paris, escalators have an unwritten rule: stand on the right side to leave the left side clear for those walking.<\/p>\n<p>Blocking the left side can frustrate locals, especially during rush hours in busy Metro stations.<\/p>\n<p>This small but important gesture shows respect for local customs and helps you blend in more seamlessly.<\/p>\n<p>Observing these little cultural habits can make your time in Paris smoother and more pleasant.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Visiting Paris is a dream for many, but even the most seasoned travelers can fall into a few common traps. These rookie mistakes can make &#8230; <a title=\"19 Rookie Mistakes to AVOID in Paris!\" class=\"read-more\" href=\"https:\/\/www.france-hotel-guide.com\/en\/blog\/paris-rookie-mistakes\/\" aria-label=\"Read more about 19 Rookie Mistakes to AVOID in Paris!\">Read more<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":4,"featured_media":24465,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[20],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-24454","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-practical","infinite-scroll-item","generate-columns","tablet-grid-50","mobile-grid-100","grid-parent","grid-50","resize-featured-image"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v27.8 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>19 Rookie Mistakes to AVOID in Paris!<\/title>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.france-hotel-guide.com\/en\/blog\/paris-rookie-mistakes\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"19 Rookie Mistakes to AVOID in Paris!\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Visiting Paris is a dream for many, but even the most seasoned travelers can fall into a few common traps. 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