Paris: The Dream City. Just Watch Out for These Tourist Scams!

Who doesn’t dream of traveling to Paris? A romantic city, steeped in history, with delicious food, and breathtaking architecture… it’s simply all beautiful! Imagining taking photos in front of the Eiffel Tower, having a lovely coffee at a sidewalk cafe, or exploring the Louvre Museum is already on many people’s bucket lists.

However, due to its immense popularity, Paris also attracts individuals who are looking for opportunities to take advantage of unsuspecting tourists. Don’t worry, this doesn’t mean Paris isn’t safe! The city is still wonderful to explore. But, it’s wise to be aware of potential minor issues that could slightly disrupt your trip.

Tourist scams in Paris are quite similar to those found in other large, tourist-heavy cities in Europe. Generally speaking, there are two main types of scams you should be aware of. One is very easy to avoid if you know how, while the other requires extra caution as they operate more subtly. Let’s break them down so you don’t fall victim!

1. The ‘Friendship’ Bracelet Scam

This is a notorious scam that’s famous throughout Europe. In Paris, you’ll frequently encounter perpetrators of this scam, particularly in heavily crowded tourist areas like around the Eiffel Tower, Montmartre (the area around the Sacré-Cœur Basilica), or near the entrance of other popular tourist attractions.

Here’s how it works:

• They’ll approach you, carrying many colorful thread bracelets.
• Initially pretending to be friendly, saying hello, and offering bracelets, maybe claiming it’s just 1 Euro, or even pretending to give it away for free because you’re a tourist.
• You likely won’t be interested, right? That’s when they start becoming ‘aggressive’.
• They might immediately say, “This is for you, it’s free, a gift from me!” while quickly and quite forcefully tying the bracelet onto your wrist. Their movements are fast, leaving you no time to think or firmly refuse.
• Many tourists are surprised or think, “Oh, it’s free? Okay then,” and don’t strongly object.
• Once the bracelet is on… the trap begins! They immediately demand money, but the amount is faaaaaar higher than the price they initially quoted (for instance, instantly demanding 10, 15, or 20 Euros!).
• These people often work in groups. As soon as you’re wearing a bracelet, you might suddenly find yourself surrounded by several individuals who join in to ‘pressure’ you into paying. The atmosphere becomes uncomfortable and intimidating.

How to Avoid It? The Simple Trick!

• Maintain Distance: This is the most crucial step! As soon as you spot individuals carrying piles of bracelets with suspicious movements in crowded tourist spots, immediately avoid them or walk away. Do not let them approach you, especially not close enough to touch your hand.
• Refuse Firmly (If Approached): If they manage to approach you and offer a bracelet, say “No, thank you” firmly, perhaps with a clear hand gesture indicating refusal. Don’t stop or engage in conversation.
• If It’s Already Tied On?: Don’t panic! Immediately remove the bracelet (quickly!), drop or throw it onto the ground in front of them (or into a nearby trash can), and IMMEDIATELY walk away quickly. Ignore any shouting or attempts to talk to you. They have no leverage if the bracelet is off your hand and you don’t respond. The key takeaway: NEVER pay!

2. Pickpocketing in Crowds & on Public Transport

Now, this scam operates differently. It doesn’t involve persuasion or physical force like the bracelet scam, but it’s very subtle, cunning, and exploits your moments of inattention. This is one of the most common scams in any large city, including Paris.

Where to Be Wary of Pickpockets?

• The Louvre Museum (Especially in front of the Mona Lisa): Yes, as mentioned before. The dense crowd in front of the Mona Lisa is a prime spot for pickpockets because everyone is busy taking photos and is distracted.
• Inside the Metro (Subway): This is one of the most vulnerable locations! During busy hours, inside crowded carriages or when boarding/alighting, pickpockets work quickly. Be especially careful when Metro doors are opening or closing.
• Major Train Stations: Gare du Nord, Gare Saint-Lazare, etc., are busy with many people moving around with luggage, making them easy targets.
• Other Crowded Areas: Around the Eiffel Tower (including the Trocadero gardens), busy shopping districts, queues for tourist attractions, or at festivals and public events.

Here’s how it works:

• These pickpockets are highly skilled at operating in crowded areas. They often work in teams. One person might create a distraction (e.g., bumping into you, pretending to drop something, or using another ruse), while another quickly takes items from the victim’s bag or pocket.
• They target tourists who are distracted – busy taking photos, looking at maps, using their phones, or whose bags are easily accessible (e.g., an unsupervised backpack on your back, an open tote bag, or a wallet in a back pocket). Wallets, phones, or even passports can disappear in seconds without you noticing! You often only realize what happened when you’re already some distance away.

How to Avoid It? Stay Focused & Secure Your Belongings!

• Be Extra Wary in Crowds & on the Metro: When in very crowded areas or inside the Metro, heighten your awareness. Don’t get too caught up in taking photos or using your phone to the point where you forget your surroundings.
• Secure Valuables: Place your wallet, phone, and passport in the safest location, where it’s difficult for pickpockets to reach. Back pockets or a backpack worn on your back are essentially inviting thieves! Avoid keeping valuables there.
• Choose the Right Bag: Use bags that are difficult for someone to open discreetly, such as a sling bag worn across your chest in front of you, or a waist bag hidden under your jacket or clothes. If using a backpack, especially in dense crowds or on the Metro, wear it on your front instead of your back.
• Separate Money & Documents: Don’t keep all your cash and cards in one wallet. Distribute them in a few different secure places. Keep photocopies or digital copies of important documents (passport, ID card, visa) stored securely at your hotel or in cloud storage/email accessible in case the originals are lost. Only carry your physical passport when absolutely necessary, and keep it very secure.
• Be Wary of Distractions: Be cautious of strangers who suddenly initiate unusual interactions or cause minor disturbances (e.g., someone pretending to drop something near you). This could be a tactic used by pickpockets.

What If You Become a Victim?

Even if you’re careful, sometimes misfortune can happen. If you do become a victim of a scam or pickpocketing:

• Don’t Panic (Try Your Best): Take a deep breath and try to remain calm, even though it’s frustrating.
• Immediately Block Your Cards: Immediately contact your bank or credit/debit card provider to block any lost cards and prevent unauthorized use. Keep your bank’s/card provider’s contact numbers stored on your phone or in a separate note.
• File a Police Report: Find the nearest police station and file a report. This report is essential for travel insurance claims and for handling document issues (such as getting a temporary passport at your embassy).
• Contact Your Embassy/Consulate: If your passport or other important documents are lost, immediately contact your country’s Embassy or Consulate General in Paris. They can assist you with obtaining temporary travel documents.

The Bottom Line… Don’t Worry Excessively, Just Be Prepared!

Paris is still a dream city, with all its beauty and romance! This information about scams is not meant to scare you into becoming paranoid and unable to enjoy your vacation. On the contrary! By being aware of these potential ‘pitfalls’ and knowing how to avoid them, you’ll be better prepared and can explore Paris with more confidence, peace of mind, and safety.

Enjoy every beautiful moment in Paris!