Is Paris safe for solo travel?
Let’s address the elephant in the room – safety. Paris is undoubtedly a safe destination for solo female travelers. Like any big city, you should exercise basic caution, keep valuables safe, and not leave things unattended. Y’all know the drill.
I’ve been living in and out of a suitcase for the better half of a decade. During that time, I lived in the City of Love for a year, so all these tips come seeped with some local flavor.
TL;DR
Is it safe to travel to Paris?
Paris: The good, bad, and ugly
Best time to travel to Paris
How safe is Paris? Broken down by arrondissement
Best areas to stay in Paris for the first time
Best hotels in Paris for first-time visitors
Where to get the best croissants in Paris?
Where to get the best hot chocolate in Paris?
How long should I stay in Paris?
Is Paris safe to travel alone at night?
Is it safe to travel to Paris right now?
France day trips for solo travelers
Countryside getaway: Nice & Aix en Proveance
What to pack for a Parisian solo trip
Travel insurance for Paris
Staying connected through your trip
Is it safe to travel to Paris?
Ah, Paris. Or if you want to pronounce it correctly pah-ree.(Be sure to get that throat-clearing sound on the ‘R’ or you’re not doing it right).
An iconic must-see destination that simply oozes style. Where the women demonstrate effortless catwalk chic, and the men wear trousers so tight you might be left thinking – is that a baguette in your pocket, or are you just happy to see me?
For many travel adventurers, Paris will be close to the top of the European bucket list. But is Paris safe for solo female travelers? And more importantly, is it worth it?
As a young woman who spent an unexpected and unforgettable year in Paris during the pandemic, I’m here to give you some real talk about the good, bad, and ugly.
Note: when I say unexpected and unforgettable, I refer mostly to my fabulous trans roommate who frequently borrowed my lingerie.
Scantily-clad housemates aside, read on to discover how to stay safe on your solo trip to Paris, and more importantly (perhaps?) where to guzzle the best hot chocolate and devour ALL the croissants.
Tips on bagging a hot French dude are not included. Sorry, ladies.
Traveling Paris solo
Crime Index: 57.05
Safety Index: 42.95
Paris isn’t like the movies make it out to be. Here are things I loved and hated about Paris.
Now after all that, I’ll leave it up to you to decide if Paris is worth the trip.
The Good
The Viennoiserie is to die for. Eat at boulangeries every day. Not the place to count calories.
Good wine. Ahem. I mean GREAT wine.
The Bad
It’s a dirty and smelly city. The metro can sometimes smell like piss.
Parisians do not enjoy speaking in English.
The Ugly
Men will catcall you. If you’re a shy wallflower, you may have to brace for impact in Paris.
Tourist attractions are packed and underwhelming.
Best time to travel to Paris
To enjoy the best weather and avoid large crowds, plan your visit during the spring or early autumn months. Paris blooms in spring, while the golden hues of autumn add a magical touch to the city’s beauty. But things are going to be crowded so if you want to see all the sights, make sure you book ahead of time.
If you plan to visit in winter, pack warm. It can be pretty damn cold.
How safe is Paris? Broken down by arrondissement
Paris is broken up into different arrondissements. You can think of them as suburbs. If you’re wondering if Paris is safe for a solo female traveler like yourself, consider this list when you are deciding where you want to stay. It can get a little skeezy in some neighborhoods at night.
🔥 Hot Tip:
Considering renting a car or a motorbike during your trip? You will need an international driver’s license to do this. Don’t have one? The international driver’s permit will sort you out with all the documentation you need in minutes.
Paris is like a beautiful woman, who hasn’t invested in personal grooming. Beautiful to look at from far away, but as you get closer you notice the detail. And the smell.
-Me
- 1st & 2nd Arrondissements: If you’re in Paris for a few days, and have cash to spend – this is where you will want to stay. Several historical landmarks such as the Louvre, and Palais Royal are within a stone’s throw. Pricey though, so book ahead of time or travel during the low season for good deals.
- 3rd & 4th Arrondissements: Where are the yuppie hipsters at? Here you will find the coolest bars and cafes in Paris, alongside too-cool-for-school French people sucking down endless cigarettes.
- 5th & 6th Arrondissements: These neighborhoods have a strong university campus vibe. Probably due to the close proximity of several universities. Probably one of the best spots to strike up deep philosophical discussions with the cutie sitting at the next table.
- 7th & 8th Arrondissements: Here things start to get a little dicey. Several tourist hotspots like the Eiffel Tower and Champs-Elysees pepper these areas, drawing pickpockets and petty thieves. Hold on to your wits, and make sure you’re keeping your trusty travel bag close.
- 9th & 10th Arrondissements: Getting a little off the beaten track will take you to Canal Saint Martin. Here it is more intimate, a place to immerse yourself in the culture. Also if you’re stopping by the Gard du Nord, it’s home to some of the best Indian food I could find in Europe!
🔥 Hot Tip:
The metro card system is a CONFUSING. If you purchase a week pass in the middle of the week, it only extends to the end of the week. Also, week passes only cover you from Monday to Friday!
- 11th & 12th Arrondissements: Up and coming, full of young people and an absolute vibe. These neighborhoods are humming with endless sprawling streets of bars and cafes where you can while away your days in.
- 13th & 14th Arrondissements: Paris, like many cities, is full of immigrants. Here you can immerse yourself in the blend of cultures and get your hands on some bubble tea.
- 15th & 16th Arrondissements: These are residential districts, so if you’re only in town for a few days I wouldn’t opt for them.
- 17th & 18th Arrondissements: Here you will find Montmatre, another one of my favorite places in Paris! One of the best views of the city skyline is guaranteed. In saying that it’s another one of those places to raise your guard after dark.
- 19th & 20th Arrondissements: If like me, you love sitting in a park with a good book, don’t miss out on the Parc des Buttes Chaumont in the 20th district. Visit the beautiful bohemian cafes there for a truly whimsical day.
Best areas to stay in Paris for the first time
Here are some of my favorite neighborhoods. These are great locations to base yourself in during your solo trip to Paris. Pick one that best matches your vibe.
Le Marais
Explore this LGBTQ+ friendly district, visit the iconic Lezard Café, and join a Marais walking tour that highlights its vibrant history.
With its fusion of historic architecture and modern zest, this whimsical enclave is a cocoon of comfort amidst the heartbeat of Paris. This is where you can find all the too-cool-for-school Parisian chicks sucking down coffee and cigarettes.
One great way to explore this beautiful arrondissement is by bike. Sign up for a bike tour and meet fellow solo travelers.
Here are my personal picks for Le Marais.
Saint-Germain-des-Prés
Known for its artsy vibe and bohemian atmosphere, ideal for creatives and dreamers.
Sip on artisanal coffee at iconic cafes, brushing shoulders with thinkers and dreamers, as you dive into captivating conversations that transcend time and generations.
As I said, Paris is best experienced in its flavor. Don’t miss out on this amazing walking tour of Saint Germain des Prés that will knock your socks off. I mean… macaroons come on.
Here are my personal picks for Saint-Germain-des-Prés.
🌳 Park
🛍️ Market
🖼️ Culture
🎷 Film
Montmartre
This hilltop neighborhood offers stunning views, a lively arts scene, the not-to-be-missed Sacre Couer, and a taste of pure Parisian charm. You’ll feel like you’re living a scene right out of Amelie.
Here are my personal picks for Montmartre.
☕ Coffee
🛍️ Market
🖼️ Culture
🥐 Food
Canal Saint-Martin
A hip and youthful area, surrounded by cafes, boutiques, and picturesque waterways. Wander along the tree-lined quays, where indie boutiques and vintage shops beckon, offering treasures waiting to be discovered.
Here are my personal picks for Canal Saint-Martin.
☕ Coffee
🛍️ Market
🖼️ Culture
💼 Work
🔥 Hot Tip:
Paris is a city best explored by foot. It is generally quite flat and has multiple quirky and whimsical nooks and crannies to explore. So bring your walking shoes ladies.
Best hotels in Paris for first-time visitors
Here’s a rundown of my favorite places to catch a little shut-eye between exploring. Prefer AirBnbs? Here’s an AirBnb selection checklist for women traveling solo.
Hotel Henriette
Henriette is a boutique hotel in the Latin Quarter, blending vintage charm with modern comfort.
If you’re a Rive Gauche kinda girl, you’ll love it.
25hours hotel
A chic, stylish hotel situated over the Gard Du Nord train station. There’s a 24hr desk and bike hire is available.
Mama Shelter
Mama Shelter is a trendy, budget-friendly option with a vibrant atmosphere and rooftop views.
Where to go in Paris?
Paris, like most big cities, has much to offer – so depending on whether you’re all business, or looking for a bit of romantic whimsy here are some recommendations by mood.
- Tech nerd? Meet your kind at Station F. The best of France’s tech scene converges here. Check out their website for updates on networking events and seminars.
- Escaping your reality? Immerse yourself in the romantic era at Le Musée de la Vie Romantique, surrounded by lush gardens and a cozy tea salon.
- Nose always in a book? So is mine. And I absolutely loved Shakespeare and Company. Writers often gather, and attend their literary events so keep your eyes peeled for one.
- Feeling adventurous? Head to Bois de Vincennes and rent a kayak on the serene Lac Daumesnil.
- Looking for a unique night out? While the cancan never gets old, something just as French and risqué that’s lesser known is Madame Arthur, a drag cabaret and club in Pigalle where Serge Gainsbourg first played.
What to do in Paris?
- Eat. Eat everything. Paris in my humble opinion, is a city best explored through taste and smell (just not in the metro).
- Try to make friends. Parisians have a reputation for aloofness, but the whole point of travel is to get out of your comfort zone and form connections that open your mind.
- Here to shop? Visit during big sales. “Les Soldes” are 2 big sale seasons in France. The winter sale commences shortly after Christmas. Summer sales kick off right before vacation season in Europe. Time your trip for chic steals.
What not to do in Paris
- Don’t bother with the Eiffel Tower. Because who needs iconic landmarks, really? Instead, spend your time searching for the hidden treasure of Paris – the best croissant in town.
I encourage you to explore beyond the famous landmarks and discover lesser-known treasures like Canal Saint-Martin and Les Marais! - Skip the cliched souvenirs. With so many locally crafted souvenirs like artisanal soaps, silk scarves, or vintage prints from flea markets – you will be spoilt for choice.
- Avoid peak hours at museums. Head to crowd favorites like the Louvre or Musée d’Orsay during off-peak hours. Or, if you’re an art buff, consider a museum pass for priority access.
- Say Au Revoir to Uber: Girl, delete that app in Paris. It’s expensive. Challenge your navigation skills and take the metro. Just remember, the system is pretty confusing, with multiple trains with different destinations, stopping at the same lane. Double check you’re getting on the right train by checking the electronic signboards before you board.
Where to get the best croissants in Paris? 🥐❤️
The decadence in food and wine in Paris is unparalleled. Here are some recommendations from my year eating my way through Paris.
If you only come for the croissants, I wouldn’t blame you. These are hands-down the best spots to munch on flaky pastry goodness. I spent a long time hitting the pavement in Paris and doing “research” so I could present you with this mouth-watering hit list.
Bo & Mie
The brainchild of Magali Szekul and Jean-Francois Bandet, Bo & Mie is a must-visit spot for pastry lovers.
Everything there looks as good as it tastes.
Du Pain et des Idées
This iconic bakery in Canal Saint-Martin serves mouthwatering croissants with a crispy, flaky texture.
💯 worth it.
Mamiche
Mamiche is located in the 9th arrondissement, this bakery offers delectable croissants with ALL the butter and a special twist on the classic recipe.
Helmut Newcake
In fact, it’s a crime against pastry to miss it.
And one for my gluten-free sisters, Helmut Newcake is the place to be.
🍭 Sweet secret:
Macaron lover? Ladurée and Pierre Hermes are Parisian favorites. Pricey but totally worth it. Melt in your mouth goodness.
Where to get the best hot chocolate in Paris? 🔥🍫
As if the croissants aren’t dreamy enough; hot chocolate in Paris is a cliche we love for a reason! Here are my favorite places to grab a cup of the good stuff.
Angelina’s
Indulge in the seductive velvety richness of hot chocolate at Angelina’s, located on Rue de Rivoli. Then wander along the Jardin du Luxembourg, as you sip on rich velvety chocolate goodness.
Chocolaterie Jacques Genin
For another devilishly decadent option, head to Chocolaterie Jacques Genin and savor their artisanal hot chocolate creations made with whole milk. To die for.
How long to stay in Paris?
How many days should you spend in Paris? I mean, that’s a deeply personal question. If you’re looking to soak up the Parisian atmosphere I think a week will have you covered. If you’re looking to dip out to see the rest of France, I’d block out an extra week so you can leave some room for a day trip of two.
Personally, I spent a year in Paris I can’t wait to go back. Mainly for the food.
Is Paris safe to travel alone at night?
Paris is generally safe to travel alone at night, but it’s always wise to stick to well-lit and busy areas. The fifth arrondissement, where I lived, is charming and generally safe even after dark, offering a wonderful blend of culture and excitement – perfect for a solo trip to Paris.
In saying that, there are certain arrondissements where I would probably not be comfortable wandering around by myself after dark. If you like to optimize towards safety the main places you may want to avoid after dark are:
- Les Halles
- Gare du Nord
- Stalingrad and Jaurès
- Barbès Rochechouart and the Goutte d’Or
- Porte de la Chapelle
Is it safe to travel to Paris right now?
Sadly Paris has not been devoid of its issues in recent years. But with robust safety measures in place, it’s generally a secure destination.
The type of crime you might run into is with pickpockets or petty thieves. So as long as you keep your wits about you, you’ll be fine. Remember to bring a spare phone, and never head out with all your cards on you. Contingency planning is one of the best ways to ensure smooth sailing through your holiday.
Stay updated on travel advisories and guidelines before your trip, and always check local government websites for any safety updates.
🔥 Hot Tip:
If you are hopping around Europe, always compare train and flight prices. The Eurostar, while a comfortable way to get around is pricey and you can often fly to your destination for less.
France tours for singles
Ready to be seduced by the rest of France? Immerse yourself in these quintessential French experiences and make friends along the way:
Wine Tasting in Bordeaux
Embark on a delightful wine tour in the picturesque Bordeaux region, where you can meet fellow solo travelers and indulge in exquisite wines.
Lavender Fields of Provence
Join a lavender tour in Provence and bask in the fragrance of blooming lavender. It’s a sight to behold, and a sensory delight all round.
Loire Valley Chateaux Tour
Immerse yourself in France’s rich history and enact your own fairy tale for the day during the Loire Valley Chateux Tour. Bonus points if you get whisked off by a French prince.
Popular solo travel destination in France
In France for a limited time, and only have time for one other pitstop? If you’ve had your fill of the Paris scene (and its croissants), consider a jaunt to the south of France.
Nice, located on the French Riviera, is a beloved destination for solo travelers. With its sunny beaches, vibrant nightlife, and diverse cultural scene, Nice is the perfect opportunity to get some bikini time in and top up the tan.
🧗🏽 Off the beaten track
If you have time while in Nice, dip to Aix en Provence. It’s mainly known as a beach destination and a place for high-quality artisanal products.
What to pack for a Parisian solo trip
Wardrobe
How do you stand out (or fit in) in the city of chic style? Well, one of the great things about Paris is the amazing thrift stores where you can pick up some stylin’ rags for a few euros.
Related: Best Crossbody Bags for Hands-Free Chic Travel
Related: Travel Accessories for the Modern Traveling Chicka
So don’t sweat what you’re wearing. Pack light and chic, darling! Opt for versatile clothing that can be mixed and matched, comfortable shoes for long strolls, and layers for warmer days and cooler evenings.
Paris is mild in spring and autumn but can get pretty hot in summer, with temperatures in recent years hitting 104F.
Here are some cool accessories you may want to consider to rock some Parisian chic:
Smartphone Crossbody Case
Outsmart pickpockets in style with Bandolier Emma Crossbody Phone Case. Made from delicious vegan leather.
Travel-Friendly Makeup Bag
Want to maintain the je ne sais quoi, just got out of bed look. Organize your make-up with Lay-n-Go Cosmo Cosmetic Bag.
Portable Fabric Steamer
Compact and efficient, the Steamery Cirrus No.2 Travel Steamer is made with love with eco-friendly materials.
And of course – don’t forget to bring your Breton stripes! Or your travel crystals, especially if you’re into your travel superstitions.
Travel Gadgets
As a lover of technology, here are some of my must-haves for a jaunt in Paris.
Smart Luggage with GPS Tracking
Meet your new travel companion: the Away Bigger Carry-On with Pocket. With built-in GPS tracking, this sleek suitcase lets you keep tabs on your belongings while staying charged up with its built-in USB port.
Compact Drone for Breathtaking Aerial Shots
DJI Mini 2, a pocket-sized drone that opens up a whole new perspective. So compact it fits in most handbags. Turn your travel tales into stunning masterpieces. The sky really is the limit.
🔥 Hot Tip:
Bring a travel adapter. You do not want to be stuck in a situation where you can’t charge your devices.
Travel Insurance for Paris
For solo female travelers, it’s essential to have reliable travel insurance.
As I mentioned above, contingency planning is the best means for smooth sailing. Consider purchasing insurance from reputable providers like World Nomads, SafetyWing, or Allianz to ensure your peace of mind during your adventure.
Staying Connected from the Minute You Land
An absolute non-negotiable for your solo trip to Paris is your smartphone. Keep family and loved ones up to date with where you’re at and save numbers of local contacts for an emergency.
Related: Airalo vs Holafly – Up to Date Comparison
To ensure you’re connected throughout your trip, consider getting an eSIM. This will enable you to have a local number, access to maps, and social media updates without any hassle. Check out the best eSIM options in Europe.
Related: Airalo eSIM Review
Related: Holalfy eSIM Review
It’s one of the smartest ways to stay safe and connected on the move. Check out reputable providers like:
Traveling intercontinentally? Check out the best eSIM options for international travel.
Are you ready?
And there we have it. With its unique blend of history, culture, romance, and croissants, Paris is a dream destination for any solo female traveler.
Related: Learn more about the best travel savings apps that can help you save for your trip.
As with all big cities, good old common sense and basic caution go a long way – just stay smart and stay connected.
Visiting more of Europe, dont’ forget to check out my other destination guides, especially for popular European destinations like Portugal, Spain, or London.
À bientôt, mes amis!
Disclaimer
This guide was made with care and love. I try to keep them updated with new information every time I visit the city. If any of this information is outdated, please let me know!
