7 Things Tourists Do That Annoy Parisians (and How to Avoid Them)

Paris is undeniably one of the most enchanting cities in the world. With its iconic landmarks, world-class art, and signature cuisine, it draws millions of visitors each year. But while capturing a selfie at the Eiffel Tower or strolling down the Champs-Élysées might seem like a dream to tourists, some behaviors can quickly turn that dream into a source of frustration for locals.

Being culturally sensitive while traveling is not just about etiquette—it’s about creating meaningful connections and leaving behind a positive impression. Here’s a deep dive into seven common tourist behaviors that annoy Parisians and how you can avoid falling into these pitfalls.

Common Tourist Behaviors That Annoy Parisians

1. Overcrowding Popular Attractions Without Respecting Personal Space

Tourist hotspots like the Louvre or Montmartre can get overwhelmingly crowded. For Parisians, who often pass through these areas to get on with their daily lives, navigating through large groups of tourists—especially those oblivious to their surroundings—can be quite irritating.

How to Avoid This:

• Be mindful of designated walking paths and entryways.
• Avoid blocking sidewalks while taking pictures.
• Consider visiting attractions during off-peak hours to reduce congestion.

2. Loud and Disruptive Behavior in Public Spaces

Paris is a city that thrives on a certain level of sophistication and decorum, especially in public spaces. Loud conversations, shouting, or overly enthusiastic behavior in places like public transport or cafés often stand out—and not in a good way.

How to Avoid This:

• Keep voices low, especially in quieter settings like the Metro or indoor areas.
• Observe and mirror the behavior of Parisians in public.

3. Ignoring Local Dining Customs

Parisians take their dining experiences seriously—it’s part of their culture. From lingering over a coffee to savoring a three-course meal, there’s an unspoken respect for food and mealtime. Tourists rushing through meals, snapping loud food selfies, or tipping improperly often come across as inconsiderate.

How to Avoid This:

• Take your time during meals and enjoy the experience.
• Research tipping norms ahead of time (in Paris, a service charge is often included in your bill).
• Avoid disturbing other diners with excessive photography.

4. Dressing Without Regard for Local Norms

Paris may be famously stylish, but that doesn’t mean wearing flashy costumes or overly casual outfits (like workout gear) throughout the city will be appreciated. Parisians often view clothing as a reflection of respect—for themselves and their surroundings.

How to Avoid This:

• Pack a versatile wardrobe that is comfortable yet polished. A chic scarf or neutral blazer can go a long way.
• Avoid clothing that screams “tourist,” like oversized backpacks or neon activewear.

5. Forgetting Basic French Phrases

While many Parisians speak English, beginning a conversation without attempting even a simple “Bonjour” can come across as rude. For locals, it’s not about fluency—it’s about showing effort and respect for their language.

How to Avoid This:

• Learn a few basic phrases such as “Bonjour” (Hello), “Merci” (Thank you), and “Excusez-moi” (Excuse me).
• Start all interactions with a polite greeting, even if the rest of the conversation continues in English.

6. Treating Paris as a Theme Park

From climbing statues to chasing pigeons, some tourists forget that Paris is more than a backdrop for Instagram—it’s a living, breathing city with real people going about their lives. Parisians often feel frustrated when their city’s cultural landmarks are treated disrespectfully or turned into chaotic photo ops.

How to Avoid This:

• Respect rules at landmarks and refrain from inappropriate behavior (e.g., climbing sculptures).
• Engage with the city authentically—focus on experiences rather than just getting the perfect shot.

7. Overreliance on Touristy Spots

Paris has much more to offer than just the Eiffel Tower and Notre-Dame! Tourists who only stick to the most popular attractions can miss out on its hidden gems—and this often leaves locals wondering why more travelers don’t explore beyond the basics.

How to Avoid This:

• Venture into neighborhoods like Le Marais, Belleville, or Canal Saint-Martin to experience Paris like a local.
• Visit independent bookshops, markets, and cafés that are off the beaten path.

The Impact of Annoying Tourist Behaviors

Strain on Daily Life

Crowds, noise, and disruptions can make it difficult for Parisians to enjoy their own city. Walkways get blocked, commutes become slower, and daily routines are affected.

Negative Stereotypes

Repeated instances of inconsiderate behavior contribute to stereotypes about tourists being loud, entitled, or unaware. This can create tension between locals and visitors, diminishing the quality of interactions on both sides.

Environmental and Economic Impacts

Mass tourism, when unregulated, places immense pressure on infrastructure, leading to degradation of landmarks and increased pollution. Overcrowding also shifts resources away from local needs to accommodate the influx of visitors.

Why Cultural Sensitivity Matters

Understanding and respecting a destination’s culture is essential to meaningful, responsible travel. It’s about showing gratitude for the opportunity to explore a city like Paris and leaving it better (or at least as good) as you found it.

Tips for Mindful Travel

• Research the history and customs of Paris before your trip.
• Support small businesses and local artisans rather than large tourist chains.
• Be an active listener when engaging with locals—they might share unforgettable insights.
• Leave the city as you found it—avoid littering, follow rules, and conserve resources.

Insights from Locals

We asked Parisians about their experiences living alongside millions of tourists each year. Here are some of their recommendations for positive interactions:

Julien (34, Montmartre Resident): “Enjoy Paris, but don’t forget it’s our home. It’s not just a picture-perfect destination; it’s where we work and live.”

Camille (28, Barista in Le Marais): “A ‘Bonjour’ goes a long way. Even if your French isn’t perfect, the effort is always appreciated.”

Sophie (47, Artist in Saint-Germain): “Paris isn’t just the big landmarks. Explore the art galleries, the small streets, the community spots where we relax too.”

How to Elevate Your Parisian Experience

Traveling is about connection—connecting with people, places, and cultures. By being mindful of your actions and respectful of local customs, you’ll not only avoid being “that tourist” but also enrich your experience in ways you might not have expected.

Planning a trip to Paris soon? Share your own travel tips or experiences in the comments below! Why not start by sharing one French phrase you’ll use on your visit?