Paris is always a good idea. Traveling to the City of Light for the first time? See what you should avoid so you don't end up getting fined.
Paris is a city filled with light and spectacular sights. Strolls along the banks of the Seine, buildings with iconic architecture, lush parks, impressive boulevards and small cafés are some of the things that will impress you from the very first moment. No matter how many times you visit, there's always something new to see and learn.
From getting around by metro to bike rides and dining in restaurants, there are quite a few things to watch out for in Paris. To save yourself hassle and unnecessary expenses, it's best to keep the city's informal and official rules in mind before you get there.
Don't try to see all of Paris in two days
Paris is a truly large city and, no matter how hard you try, you won't manage to see it all in a single visit. Especially if you're going just for a long weekend, you should know in advance what you want to see and do, so you can build an itinerary. It's also worth leaving gaps in your days so you can savor the city's atmosphere without rushing. Bear in mind, though, that many attractions have long lines that might delay you.
Don't limit yourself to the attractions
The Eiffel Tower and the Louvre are sights you shouldn't miss. However, the real atmosphere of Paris shows in its neighborhoods. Walk through Le Marais, Saint-Germain-des-Prés, Montmartre, and around Canal Saint-Martin. Leave a little time to enjoy the impressive parks and to sample a croissant.
Don't forget the rules on public transport
In every city and country there are unwritten and official rules for public transport. Because Parisians are commuting to get to work, it's best not to make their daily life harder. Stand to the side of the escalator, wait for passengers to get off before you board the metro, and don't open the doors until the train has come to a complete stop. On older trains the doors aren't automatic and you need to lift a lever.
An unwritten rule on public transport is not to sit on the fold-down seats during rush hour, as when the carriage is full you take up standing space. Also, make sure you don't speak loudly on the phone or on speakerphone. Don't put your feet on the seat, because besides being rude, it's punishable with a fine.
Don't eat only croissants and crêpes
On every corner of Paris you'll find a boulangerie with fragrant, buttery croissants. In many places you'll also come across crêperies. Of course, if you have a sweet tooth you'll try them, but don't stop there. French gastronomy has plenty of products and dishes worth discovering. Try baguettes with cheeses and charcuterie, the famous entrecôte (sirloin steak), and of course fries and different cheeses paired with French wine.
Don't leave tickets to the last minute
If you know what you want to visit in Paris, buy tickets online before your trip. For example, at the Eiffel Tower and Musée d'Orsay you can buy tickets on the spot, but you may wait in huge lines or they may sell out. This also applies to the first Sunday of the month, when most museums are free to the public, as you can only enter if you book a time slot in advance. If you have a student ID or are under 25, carry your ID because at some attractions you get a reduced rate.
Don't smoke just anywhere
Before you arrive in Paris, make sure you learn the smoking ban laws. In France a ban has been established for all public spaces. This means you cannot smoke in public parks, gardens, beaches, bus stops and covered passenger waiting areas, anywhere near schools (including waiting and reception areas), outside libraries, pools, stadiums, and sports facilities. Violations can result in a fine of over 100 euros, and with surcharges it can reach 375 euros. So, if you sit in a Parisian garden for a picnic, don't assume that just because you're outdoors you can automatically light a cigarette.
Don't litter
Beyond general rules of cleanliness and respect for public space, if you throw trash on the ground you risk a fine of up to 135 euros. The same applies to cigarette butts on the streets. Because Paris has a big problem with cigarette butts on the streets, checks have intensified. The same goes for spitting in public, which can result in a fine of over 60 euros.
Don't fly drones
It may be tempting to shoot photos and drone videos, but it won't end well. Flying over Paris without the appropriate permit from the city police is strictly prohibited. Failure to comply carries a fine of 75,000 euros and a one-year prison sentence.
Don't forget the bike rules
The bicycle is one of the most practical ways to explore Paris, but cyclists must follow the same traffic rules as cars. Don't ride on sidewalks, as the violation can result in a fine, and always give priority to pedestrians.
Also, while you're on the bike, forget your phone. Don't hold it in your hand and don't use it even with headphones, as these violations are also punished. If you're using your phone for GPS, put it in a mount and set the route before you start. Traffic lights and signage apply to bikes too, and running a red light can also cost you. There are only specific exceptions where special signage allows cyclists to turn on red. A helmet is mandatory for children under 12, while for adults it's strongly recommended.
Electric scooters have rules too
If you choose an electric scooter to get around Paris, don't forget that specific rules apply, just as with bicycles. Two people aren't allowed on the same scooter, while riding on sidewalks is prohibited and can result in a fine. From August 2026, users of electric scooters are also required to wear a helmet and high-visibility gear when riding on public roads, otherwise they pay a fine. The speed limit is 25 km/h, and exceeding it can result in a fine of up to 1,500 euros. Finally, don't leave the scooter wherever suits you: parking on sidewalks isn't allowed and designated spaces must be used.
Don't expect to sit down for a meal whenever you want
In Paris, restaurants don't operate like in Athens. Lunch hours are 12 p.m.–2:30 p.m., while dinner starts from 7 p.m. Quite a few restaurants are closed at midday, so be prepared. Look for those that are open all day, so you don't end up hungry.
Don't choose a restaurant just because it's next to a landmark
Just because a restaurant is opposite the Eiffel Tower doesn't necessarily mean it's the best choice. It may be convenient to sit there, but it's better to have searched for a few nearby restaurants so you can avoid tourist traps. If there's a restaurant you definitely want to visit, make sure you've booked in advance.
