8 Risky Places to Avoid in Paris for Students & Tourists In 2024

When we think of Paris, we imagine crêpes, croissants, iconic museums, and much more! The City of Light is a dream destination for tourists, students, and professionals alike. However, it’s easy to get swept up in the glamour of Parisian streets without considering the areas to avoid in Paris. 

While pickpocketing is the most common issue, there’s more to be cautious of around every corner. But don’t worry—this doesn’t mean you shouldn’t pack your beret, grab your bags, and start picturing yourself in front of the Eiffel Tower! Until you make friends in the City of Love, this guide will help you stay safe. We’ll cover the common problems people face in dangerous Paris neighbourhoods and offer essential safety tips for navigating places to avoid in Paris.

Is Paris Safe?

There may be several areas to avoid in Paris, but these are not the most dangerous places in the world. In 2023, Numbeo (a crowd-sourced global safety index) ranked Paris 74th out of 468 cities in terms of safety. While the number does not look bad and violent crimes rarely occur, phone, car, and wallet thefts are pretty common. The city is divided into 20 arrondissements, and you can make a list of unsafe areas in Paris. However, while exploring the beauty of Paname, you should be cautious like you would be in any other large city on Earth. While the 10th arrondissement is popular for its hip vibe, crime rates have increased. Similarly, locals suggest staying vigilant in the areas around Bois de Boulogne. 

8 Areas to Avoid in Paris: Things to Keep in Mind

When you are already travelling on a budget, sudden setbacks like a stolen wallet or phone can be a downer. If you are cautious about the places to avoid in Paris, a beautiful journey awaits you. Keep these places to avoid in Paris in mind when planning your itinerary, and have a gala time ahead!

1. The Gare du Nord and Gare de l'Est 

When to Avoid: After 10 PM
Common Crime: Pickpocketing
‍Crime Rate: Moderate to high  

As mentioned earlier, the 10th arrondissement is one of the neighbourhoods to avoid in Paris. Though many will suggest you stay here, owing to the international railways nearby, the area can be dodgy. It has become one of the areas to avoid in Paris due to people selling drugs at night. You might even find people addicted to drugs or alcohol, it might compel you to buy illegal substances, pickpocket, and fight. For this reason, it may be the worst neighbourhood in Paris for students or tourists or a question might occur, how safe is Paris for tourists?

2. Les Halles 

When to Avoid: On weekends
Common Crime: "Free gift" scams, bag snatching
Crime Rate: Moderate  

Located in the 1st arrondissement, Les Halles is popular for its proximity to Forum des Halles, Notre Dame Cathedral, and Louvre Museum. While it's near one of the top 10 Instagrammable spots in Paris, it's also one of the unsafe areas. What happens is that you may see someone approaching you with a desirable gift. Once you show interest, they will make you jump through hoops to claim your prize; in the end, you will end up with a low-quality item or even nothing. Due to the high foot traffic, criminal activities like pickpockets are rampant — even in the crowded shopping malls. Regardless of how great your shopping experience will be, you should always keep your bags close here, as it's also one of the places to avoid in Paris.

3. Porte de La Chapelle 

When to Avoid: Late hours
Common Crime: Friendship scams, change scams, fake tickets/tours
Crime Rate: Moderate to high

The neighbourhood, decked in vibrant murals and graffiti, screams a raw and authentic feel that's very different from the sophisticated sides of the city. You can keep Porte de La Chapelle in your itinerary, but it's also one of the arrondissements to avoid in Paris. Keeping aside the cultural vibrancy you can find, higher crime rates around the metro station are alarming. Drug-related crimes are moderately high in Porte de Chapelle, making it one of the common areas to avoid in Paris. Also, watch out for fake friends who fleece you, tricky cash exchanges, and false tours that will leave you empty-handed, making it one of the more dangerous areas in Paris!

4. 19th Arrondissement 

When to Avoid: On summer nights
‍Common Crime: Petty theft, pickpocketing
Crime Rate: Moderate  

The city buzz sprawling at Parc de La Villette is one of the reasons to visit the 19th arrondissement; however, the northern part may make you feel less safe. Stalingrad, Jaurès and Mouzaia are some areas to avoid in Paris when you are travelling alone on summer nights. Stay extra vigilant in crowded spaces, especially on public transport. Parc de Buttes-Chaumont and Ourcq Canal are also two areas to avoid in Paris in summer because of the widely seen public intoxication. The 19th arrondissement is definitely one of the neighbourhoods to avoid in Paris.

5. Barbès-Rochechouart

When to Avoid: After 8 PM
Common Crime: Friendship bracelet scams
Crime Rate: Moderate to high

While the Barbès-Rochechouart, located in the 18th arrondissement, is a must-visit for Sacré-Coeur Basilica and its breathtaking views, it is one of the places to avoid in Paris. While daytime is generally okay, avoid walking alone after dark, especially on the less-travelled streets. The area is a rich pot of cultures with abundant shops for African fabrics and Asian electronics. After sunset, the bustling market vanishes, making it one of the places to avoid in Paris. Meanwhile, beware of the aggressive sellers forcing you to tie friendship bracelets only to ask for your money.

6. Porte de Clignancourt

When to Avoid: Late evenings; after 8 PM
Common Crime: Fake antique scams, pickpocketing
Crime Rate: Moderate to high

Marché aux Puces de Saint-Ouen, the star of flea markets, is a paradise for antique lovers and fashionistas on a budget. If you are planning to have a delicious breakfast in local cafes around here, avoid wearing flashy jewellery or carrying expensive bags. It is one of the areas to avoid in Paris for petty theft and pickpocketing. As long as you take your friend and know when to leave – only if you are visiting in the late evening – this will not feel like one of the most dangerous neighbourhoods in Paris. Just in case you fall in love with antique pieces, be sure to look through the overpriced fakes in one of the places to avoid in Paris.

7. 20th Arrondissement 

When to Avoid: After dark
Common Crime: Bag snatching, ATM scams
Crime Rate: Moderate  

For anyone who enjoys the city buzz and panoramic views from the beautiful parks, the 20th arrondissement has a lot to offer. However, do not get lost in the glamour of the trendy cafes or lively street scenes. It's also one of the arrondissements to avoid in Paris! Areas near the metro stations can make you feel less safe, particularly at night. It's best to stick to well-lit areas and use public transportation during the day. Make sure you are aware of your surroundings and keep your valuables close. Of course, be wary of ATM skimmers and shoulder surfers in Paris who steal your card details!

8. Bois de Vincennes

When to Avoid: At night
Common Crime: Petty theft
Crime Rate: Low  

Often referred to as the second-largest lung of Paris, Bois de Vincennes is a place where you can rejuvenate. However, it can be one of the places to avoid in Paris once you leave your bags unattended. Immerse yourself in history at the mediaeval fortress or explore the botanical gardens - but remember – in this serene oasis, vigilance is your best companion for a truly carefree experience.

Quote - If something feels off, move to a popular area.

It may be one of the common areas to avoid in Paris, but you can enjoy the beauty of Bois de Vincennes with extra caution.

Basic Safety Tips in Paris

While we have walked you through the common crimes and the areas to avoid in Paris, here are a few tips you can consider. Common scams are prevalent, but you can stay vigilant to avoid such cases. Let's go through the common safety tips before travelling to dangerous parts of Paris:

1. Explore During Daylight

Stick to well-lit, populated areas, especially at night. Exploring during the day is ideal for safety.

2. Secure Your Belongings

Opt for a crossbody bag with a secure zip. Always keep your valuables close to your front, reducing the chance of pickpocketing.

3. Keep Expensive Items Hidden

Never leave your phone or wallet visible on tables or hanging out of your pockets. Keep them hidden from potential thieves.

4. Use Safe Transportation at Night

Avoid public transit in high-risk areas during nighttime. Choose a taxi or rideshare service like Uber for safer options.

5. Stay Away from Clipboard Scams

Ignore people approaching you with clipboards or asking for a light. It’s often a distraction for pickpocketing.

6. Prioritise Safe Accommodation

Don't compromise on safety when choosing accommodation. Consider safe hostels or apartments, and research locations beforehand. You can consider a few tips for safe hostel hopping to find the perfect accommodation.

7. Secure Your Room

If staying in more vulnerable arrondissements (like the 18th, 19th, 10th, or 20th), avoid placing valuables near windows.

8. Plan Your Nights

Before heading out at night, plan your route and share it with friends. Taking a companion adds an extra layer of safety.

9. Engage with Locals

Familiarising yourself with the local community helps you feel safer and more integrated into your surroundings.

10. Trust Your Instincts

If you ever feel unsafe or uncomfortable, trust your gut and avoid engaging with strangers.

While Paris is a captivating city, there are certain places to avoid in Paris, particularly at night. In fact, the City of Light is not more dangerous than other metro cities in the world, and it is one of the best places to live in France. There may be some places to avoid in Paris; however, you can make the best of your experience following extra caution. Whether you are going to study at one of the best art schools in Paris or shop till you drop out, the city will leave you breathless. Just be careful around districts to avoid in Paris; you will have a blast!