Paris is a city that captures attention like no other, but it’s also a place where the smallest missteps can make a traveler stand out instantly. Locals notice far more than many visitors realize, from how people greet shopkeepers to the way they navigate the Metro or order a coffee at a café. These little moments can say a lot, and for first-time visitors, they often reveal who hasn’t quite gotten the rhythm of the city yet.
What feels like a harmless habit back home might come across as out of place, or even rude, on Parisian streets. Don't let your harmless habits let people think you are from a nation with a reputation for rude tourists.
These are 11 tourist mistakes locals instantly notice in Paris, and being aware of them can make a big difference. Like we talked about in 13 countries where good manners make or break your trip, it’s not about becoming someone you’re not, but about understanding the flow of daily life in a city that values certain customs. When you know what to avoid, you get to experience Paris with fewer awkward moments and more ease. Think of it as a small adjustment that can make your trip smoother, your interactions friendlier, and your memories of Paris that much better.
Speaking Loudly in Public Spaces
Parisians value a quieter tone in public, especially on the Metro, in cafés, and in small shops. Loud voices are instantly noticed and signal “tourist” before you’ve even said where you’re from. Many visitors don’t realize how disruptive it feels in spaces where people keep conversations low and private. On public transit, loud chatter can feel intrusive, and in restaurants, it can break the calm rhythm locals expect. Lowering your voice doesn’t mean whispering, it simply means matching the room. Doing so shows awareness and respect for the setting, and it keeps you from standing out for the wrong reasons.
Not Greeting Shopkeepers
In Paris, walking into a shop without saying “Bonjour” is considered abrupt and even rude. Locals almost always greet shopkeepers before browsing, it’s a small but important gesture of respect. Many tourists skip this, treating shops like self-service spaces, which immediately marks them as outsiders. Whether you’re entering a boutique, bakery, or even a small grocery store, a simple “Bonjour” (and “Au revoir” when leaving) signals that you understand basic manners. These greetings may seem minor, but they set the tone for friendlier interactions and show that you’ve taken the time to notice how Parisians connect in daily life.
Expecting Everywhere to Speak English
Paris is international, and many people do speak English—but assuming everyone does can frustrate locals. Some visitors jump straight into English without even attempting “Bonjour” or “Parlez-vous anglais?” which can feel dismissive. It’s not that Parisians won’t help—it’s that the expectation comes across as entitled. Even if your French is limited to a few phrases, using them softens the interaction. Locals notice when tourists make an effort, and they often respond more warmly. Expecting English everywhere not only sets you up for awkward moments but also keeps you from connecting with the culture around you.
Eating or Drinking on the Metro
Unlike in some cities, Parisians rarely eat or drink on the Metro. It’s seen as messy, distracting, and inconsiderate in a space meant for quick, efficient travel. Tourists munching sandwiches or sipping coffee on crowded trains stand out immediately. Strong smells and crumbs make the ride unpleasant for those around you, and the Metro isn’t designed for that kind of use. Instead, locals take time to eat before or after their commute. Observing this unspoken rule keeps public transit more comfortable for everyone—and saves you from side glances or even direct comments about breaking a norm.
Tipping Like in the U.S.
In France, service charges are already built into restaurant bills, so tipping large amounts like in the U.S. isn’t necessary. Many tourists leave 15–20% out of habit, which locals instantly recognize as unfamiliarity with their customs. While it’s polite to round up or leave a few extra coins for good service, big tips can feel awkward or even confusing. Parisians don’t tip heavily because servers are paid differently than in some countries. Understanding this before you sit down helps you blend in and spend appropriately—your awareness of this cultural difference will not go unnoticed by those around you.
Blocking Sidewalks for Photos
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Paris is full of postcard-worthy spots, but stopping abruptly on a narrow sidewalk to take pictures can irritate locals. Parisians walk quickly and expect the flow of foot traffic to keep moving. When tourists form a huddle with tripods or pause suddenly to frame a shot, they cause bottlenecks or force people into the street. It’s not that Parisians mind photos—they just prefer you step aside, find a corner, or move to a plaza rather than stopping mid-stride. Being mindful of where you stop shows respect for the rhythm of the city and avoids those frustrated glares from commuters.
Wearing Overtly “Touristy” Outfits
Big backpacks, bright sneakers, oversized cameras, and fanny packs scream “tourist” in Paris. While there’s nothing wrong with comfort, these items instantly set you apart from locals, who tend to dress more neutrally and carry smaller, sleeker bags. Standing out visually can also make you a target for pickpockets in crowded areas. You don’t need to overhaul your wardrobe, but avoiding overly loud or bulky choices helps you blend in better. Simple, comfortable clothes, subtle shoes, and a crossbody bag can make navigating the city easier—and keep you from looking like you stepped off a group bus tour.
Visiting Only the “Big 3” Landmarks
Many tourists come to Paris, see the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, and Notre Dame, then leave—missing the rest of the city. Locals notice this pattern and often view it as a surface-level visit. Paris has layers: quiet neighborhoods, small museums, markets, and parks that reveal more than the big attractions do. When visitors ignore these in favor of a checklist trip, it shows. Exploring beyond the “Big 3” isn’t just for bragging rights—it’s how you experience the Paris locals actually live in, which makes your trip richer and earns more respect from those who call it home.
Misusing “Bonjour” and “Bonsoir”
French greetings matter, and using the wrong one stands out. Tourists often say “Bonjour” late at night or forget to switch to “Bonsoir” in the evening. To Parisians, this slip signals that you’re not tuned in to their rhythm. It’s a tiny detail, but in France, details matter. Saying “Bonsoir” after around 6 p.m. shows awareness of time and social etiquette. The same goes for skipping greetings entirely—it’s considered rude. Learning when and how to use these simple phrases makes daily interactions smoother and helps you avoid the subtle eye-rolls locals reserve for tourists who don’t bother.
Not Trying Basic French Phrases
Many tourists in Paris skip even the simplest French phrases, which locals quickly notice. Saying “merci,” “s’il vous plaît,” or “excusez-moi” doesn’t require fluency, but it shows effort. When visitors don’t bother, interactions can feel transactional and cold. Using just a few words of French often changes the tone—people are more patient and friendly when they see you trying. Skipping them entirely, on the other hand, feels dismissive. You don’t have to master the language; simply sprinkling in those basics goes a long way and signals you respect the culture you’re stepping into.
Eating Lunch or Dinner at Odd Hours
Paris has its own rhythm for meals, and tourists often misstep by eating at hours that confuse restaurant staff. Locals typically have lunch between noon and 2 p.m., and dinner rarely starts before 7:30 p.m. Showing up for lunch at 3 p.m. or dinner at 5 p.m. means you’ll find kitchens closed or menus limited. To Parisians, these odd-hour diners stand out immediately—they’re simply not in sync with how the city eats. Adjusting to local mealtime schedules not only makes dining easier, it also shows you’ve taken time to understand the pace of Parisian daily life.
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