Is Paris safe? An honest guide for visitors
Short answer
Paris is broadly safe for visitors, and the overwhelming majority of trips pass without problems. The real risks are pickpocketing and phone theft on the metro and at the big sights, plus a set of well-known street scams. Terrorism alerts and visible security are part of daily life but are not a reason for most visitors to change plans.
The real risks
Pickpocketing
Common on metro line 1, the RER B to and from the airport, at the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, Sacré-Cœur and Châtelet–Les Halles. Keep bags closed and in front of you, phones out of back pockets, and be wary of people pushing close at train doors.
Phone snatching
Phones left on café terrace tables or held loosely near metro doors can be grabbed. Keep yours in a pocket or bag when not in use.
Petition and 'deaf charity' clipboards
Groups ask you to sign a petition and then demand a donation, while someone else may reach into your bag. Do not stop or sign.
Found gold ring and string bracelet tricks
Someone 'finds' a ring and offers it to you for money, or ties a bracelet onto your wrist near Sacré-Cœur and asks for payment. Keep walking.
Shell games on bridges
The cup-and-ball game near the Eiffel Tower and Seine bridges is rigged and run by groups; do not bet or watch closely.
Unlicensed taxis
Drivers soliciting in the airport arrivals hall. Use the official taxi rank, a taxi app or the RER B.
Areas and times to take care
Be more alert around Gare du Nord and Gare de l'Est, Châtelet–Les Halles and the lower slopes around Barbès–Rochechouart and Pigalle late at night, mainly for pickpocketing, drug dealing and people hassling passers-by. The Trocadéro and Champ de Mars after dark attract street sellers and thieves working the crowds. Elsewhere in central Paris, normal city caution is enough, and the Marais, Saint-Germain and the Latin Quarter are busy and relaxed into the evening.
Getting around safely
Licensed taxis have a lit 'TAXI PARISIEN' sign and a meter; airport fares from Charles de Gaulle are fixed (about €56 to the Right Bank, €65 to the Left Bank). Uber, Bolt and G7 apps all work. The metro runs until about 01:15 (about 02:15 on Friday and Saturday nights), after which Noctilien night buses operate; at night choose busy carriages near the driver and avoid empty ones.
Solo and women travellers
Solo women travel in Paris all the time without trouble. Unwanted comments and persistent approaches do happen, especially in crowded tourist areas, on the metro and around Pigalle at night; ignore, walk on, and move carriages if someone makes you uncomfortable. Late at night a taxi or ride-hailing car is more comfortable than a long metro journey with changes. In bars, keep your drink in sight.
Health, water and heat
Tap water is safe to drink and served free in restaurants. Summers are usually mild (highs around 25°C) but heatwaves of 35°C or more occur; many old buildings lack air conditioning, so check before booking in July or August. Pharmacies with a green cross are everywhere and some open late or 24 hours. EU visitors should carry an EHIC; others should have travel insurance.
Official travel advice
Check your government's advice before you travel — it is updated when things change.
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Common questions
Is Paris safe for tourists?
Yes, for most visitors. The main risks are pickpocketing on metro line 1, the RER B and at big sights, and street scams like petitions and the gold ring trick.
Is the Paris metro safe at night?
Generally yes until it closes (about 01:15, later at weekends). Use busy carriages, keep your phone away near the doors, and take a taxi or ride-hailing car for long late journeys.
Can you drink tap water in Paris?
Yes. It is safe, and restaurants serve a free carafe if you ask for 'une carafe d'eau'.