Is Paris Overrated? Dream Destination or Overhyped Tourist Trap in 2024?

Last updated on March 10th, 2024 at 04:47 pm

Planning a trip to Paris and wondering if the City of Light is worth the hype?

You’re in the right place, as I’ve been to Paris many times and asked myself the same question when planning my first trip. Is Paris overrated, or is Paris the most beautiful city in the world that deserves to be on everyone’s bucket list?

Paris has consistently been voted as the most visited city, but does it deserve that accolade?

It’s easy to be drawn in by the hype when visiting any big city around the world. Our expectations are understandably high, and we want to be wowed.

But has the Paris halo slipped, causing people to question its ranking? With so many other European capital cities to choose from, all vying for the top title, it’s easy to see why it might happen.

So, let’s put your mind at rest and debunk some myths surrounding this romantic city and help you decide if Paris really is overrated. Let’s dive in.

Is Paris overrated, or is it a dream destination?

No, I don’t think Paris is overrated but, I do think it’s overexposed. For me, Paris has been and always will be a city that just keeps on giving.

Every time I visit, I discover something different, from a cosy bistro or cafe to a new story about a piece of Paris history I’d never heard before.

Now, of course, this is just my opinion, and opinions are subjective, but to me, Paris is the most magical city in the world.

It’s a city where I feel as though I’m stepping into the pages of a history book and can allow my imagination to wander into the Paris of years gone by.

Is it dirty in places? Of course, it’s a city that hosted 44 million tourists in 2022, and tourists love to drop rubbish everywhere. 

Are there pickpockets and scammers? Yes, but show me a capital city that doesn’t have them. I’ve been to Tenerife and fallen foul of pickpocketers.

Is it expensive? Yes, if you only go to the tourist areas and eat at the restaurants next to the big attractions. But if you venture into some of the lesser-known arrondissements, you’ll find more budget-friendly options, and that applies to hotels too.

But to understand why Paris is the most visited city in the world and why people fall in love with it, you need to dig a bit deeper. 

Go below the surface of the tourist stuff and take a long, hard look into the soul of Paris.

13 Questions to ask before deciding if Paris is Overrated

No 1 Is the weather bad in Paris?

As a born and bred Brit, we talk about the weather a lot, so I thought I’d tackle this one first. 

One thing you have to remember about Paris is how close it is to the UK, and as we know, the weather is a little unpredictable. 

We get plenty of rain, dodgy summers and a winter that seems to last forever. Should that put you off? Definitely not.

My favourite time of year to go to Paris is winter because it’s less crowded. March in early spring is good too and the weather is never as bad as you think it’s going to be. And besides, umbrellas were made for a reason and I now have two with ‘I Love Paris’ on them.

On my last visit in December, it rained all week before I went. But in Paris, I had beautiful weather and only one hour of rain for my entire trip.

Besides, Paris in the rain really is beautiful. I know it’s a cliche, but it’s true.

No 2 Is Paris safe?

Yes, Paris is safe if you’re careful and don’t take unnecessary risks. Take precautions such as wearing any bag you carry slung across the front of you zipped up.

And don’t put your phone in your pocket because it’s easy for a pickpocket to remove.

Paris scams to watch out for

On my last Paris trip, I did a walking tour of Paris, and as soon as we arrived, Yasmin, our guide, told us about pickpockets and the most common scams to look out for.

She told us they generally only happen in high tourist areas and on busy Metro stations, but to be vigilant all the time.

Our first stop was Sacre Couer, and as we walked, she warned us about the “Petition Scam”. Typically, it involves women who approach tourists and ask them to sign a petition on a clipboard. 

The petition usually claims to support a charity or political cause. After signing, they then ask you for a monetary donation. 

And she was right. As we got out of the Funiculaire de Montmartre (the cable car), five of these women were hanging around with clipboards. Thanks to being warned, none of us in the group were caught by the scam, I’m pleased to report.

Other scams she mentioned were the “ring scam,” where a supposed gold ring is found and offered to the victim, and the “wristband scam,” where a bracelet is tied around the victim’s wrist and payment is demanded.

The crime areas in Paris

Paris, like any major city, has areas that are safer than others. The city’s safety can vary significantly by arrondissement (district). 

Areas where you should be more cautious include Boulevard de Clichy in Pigalle, known for its vibrant nightlife and proximity to the Moulin Rouge, Porte de Clignancourt and Porte de la Chapelle, both located in the 18th arrondissement. 

These are areas where caution is advised, particularly at night, due to issues with drug dealing.

On the other hand, there are numerous safe neighbourhoods popular with tourists. These include the Marais, known for its trendy and diverse atmosphere, Saint Germain, my favourite place to stay, and the Latin Quarter, which is quieter yet central and full of historical and architectural interest.

No 3 How good is the public transport and metro?

I love using the metro as it feels similar to the London Underground, which I used a lot when I lived in London. 

It is not expensive either. You can buy one ticket, Ticket t+, for €2.10, and this will cover you for one journey on the metro no matter where you’re going. 

So you can go from one end of Paris to the other on that one ticket, which I think, is pretty reasonable.

On our walking tour, we had to use the Metro five times as part of the tour, so we got an all-day travel card for €8.45.

As well as using it during the tour, we used it to get to the meeting point, to get back to our hotel and then to go back to Montmatre later that evening for dinner. It was well worth it and very reasonable.

As with any public transport system, there can be line closures, cancellations and strikes. 

As part of your trip planning, stay up to date with this type of thing to make any necessary alternative arrangements.

I tend to go to Paris out of season in the spring and winter, so it’s not as busy, but be prepared for high season when the metro is rammed. 

It’s no different to the London Tubes in that respect, but don’t let that put you off. Paris is a very walkable city, so if you don’t want to tackle the metro, put on some comfy shoes and go on foot.

No 4 What is Paris Syndrome?

I think we’ve all experienced disappointment when things don’t live up to our expectations. For me, it’s usually New Year’s Eve that never lives up to my expectations.

But usually, it happens when we’ve built something up in our minds so much that the real thing doesn’t stand a chance of being as good as it was in our heads. 

That, in a nutshell, is Paris Syndrome.

It’s been described as a psychological condition experienced by some tourists who visit Paris and find that the city does not meet their romanticised expectations. 

Believe it or not, it can bring on delusional states, hallucinations, feelings of persecution, dizziness, anxiety, and even psychosomatic manifestations such as sweating and palpitations.

Officially, it’s thought to arise from the stark contrast between the idealised image of Paris as a city of beauty, culture, and romance, portrayed and reinforced by movies, books, and advertising, and the reality of a bustling, modern city with all its urban challenges. 

This disparity can lead to a profound culture shock and a sense of disappointment and disillusionment, which often resolve after returning home and getting some distance. 

I’d say it’s directly influenced by our social media culture of posting our picture-perfect lives and the reality being completely different, but that’s just me. You be the judge.

No 5 What about the hidden gems and neighbourhoods?

As I said at the start, you need to go further than the tourist areas of Paris to understand its appeal.

There are just so many hidden gems that make Paris what it is, but you have to be prepared to take your head out of your guidebook and really explore the city.

This is when I suggest ditching the metro and going on foot. That’s when you find those wonderful surprises that allow you to see Paris through the eyes of locals, explore the city’s diverse cultural fabric, and enjoy a quieter, more intimate side of Parisian life.

Neighbourhoods to explore for an authentic Parisian experience

• Batignolles: This village-like neighbourhood in the 17th arrondissement is a peaceful haven with a lovely square, Parc Martin Luther King, organic markets, and lots of cafes and bistros. It’s a slice of the ‘real’ Paris, away from the crowds.
• Rue des Martyrs: Stretching from the 9th arrondissement to Montmartre, this market street is bustling with local life, featuring artisan bakeries, cheese shops, and traditional Parisian cafes. It offers a culinary journey through Parisian gastronomy.
• Passages Couverts: The covered passages of Paris, primarily located around the Grands Boulevards area, are 19th-century glass-roofed shopping arcades. Each passage has its unique architecture and charm, housing antique shops, art galleries, and quaint cafes.
• La Butte-aux-Cailles: This small village within the city in the 13th arrondissement has narrow cobblestone streets, low-rise buildings, and a bohemian atmosphere, which really appeals to me. It’s also a place where the French seem to congregate, always a bonus as you’re bound to find some great eateries.
• Bercy Village and Cour Saint-Émilion: Located in the 12th arrondissement, this area combines modernity with history. Bercy Village is a shopping and dining complex within a restored wine warehouse, offering a unique architectural and cultural experience.

No 6 Is the cultural experience worth it?

If you’re after a cultural immersion, one that doesn’t mean seeing the Eiffel Tower, then Paris is hard to beat. It’s often referred to as a cultural epicentre, offering an unparalleled experience in terms of history, art, fashion, and cuisine. 

If you don’t believe me, here are a few places to add to your list when you come to Paris that might help persuade you.

History

Paris is steeped in a rich history that dates back to the Roman era, with each district (arrondissement) boasting its own unique past. 

Landmarks like Notre Dame Cathedral, the Sainte-Chapelle, and the house of Nicolas Flammel tell tales of medieval Paris, while the grand boulevards and the Palais Garnier Opera House speak of the city’s 19th-century transformation under Baron Haussmann.

Art

Home to some of the world’s most famous museums and galleries, Paris is an art lover’s paradise. The Louvre, housing the Mona Lisa and thousands of other masterpieces, is a must-visit. 

The Musée d’Orsay showcases impressionist and post-impressionist art in a stunning Beaux-Arts railway station setting. And the art collection at the Palace of Versailles is worth seeing too.

Contemporary art enthusiasts will find the Centre Pompidou and Palais de Tokyo fascinating, while smaller galleries in areas like Le Marais and Saint-Germain-des-Prés offer glimpses into the current art scene.

Fashion

Paris is synonymous with fashion. It’s the birthplace of haute couture, and the city’s fashion history can be explored in places like the Palais Galliera (the Fashion Museum) and the Fondation Louis Vuitton. 

The city’s fashion districts, like the Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré and Avenue Montaigne, are lined with flagship stores of renowned designers.

Biannual Paris Fashion Week showcases the city as a global fashion capital.

Cuisine

French cuisine in Paris ranges from traditional bistros serving classics like coq au vin and escargots to Michelin-starred establishments offering cutting-edge gastronomy. 

The city’s bakeries (boulangeries) and pastry shops (pâtisseries) are world-famous, offering fresh croissants, baguettes, and exquisite pastries. 

Street markets like the Marché Bastille provide a taste of the local produce and culinary specialities. Wine bars and fromageries (cheese shops) offer a glimpse into the French love affair with cheese and wine.

Festivals

Paris hosts numerous cultural events and festivals throughout the year. These include Nuit Blanche, a night-long arts festival, and Fête de la Musique, celebrating music with free concerts across the city. 

Institutions like the Philharmonie de Paris and the Opéra National de Paris offer high-quality musical performances.

No 7 How does Paris compare to other French cities?

As much as I love Paris, and I do, it often overshadows the other cities in France that are just as lovely in their own right.

There are many to explore within an hour of Paris by train, such as Reims and Epernay in the Champagne region, Chartres, Fontainebleau and the historic city of Rouen.

Then there are cities such as Bordeaux, the wine capital of France, Cognac, where the famous brandy comes from, Poitiers, home to Eleanor of Aquitaine and La Rochelle, the pearl of the Atlantic coast.

It’s one of the things I love about living in France, there is something for everyone. One day you can be in the vineyards doing wine tasting and the next lounging on the beautiful white beaches in the Charente Maritime.

No 8 Are the attractions overhyped and expensive?

This is such a difficult question to answer as it largely depends on individual expectations and interests. 

For example, to me, paying €26.00 for an after-hours tour of Palais Garnier isn’t expensive. However, the private tour I did with a friend of mine that allowed us skip-the-line access and focused on the Phantom of the Opera, was expensive but totally worth it.

It depends on what you want to get out of things. Do you want a private tour where the guide tailors the experience to you, or are you happy to do something self-guided and wing it? 

Both are perfectly great ways to do it, but it depends on what you want to do, and how you like to do things.

When I think of the cost of some of the National Trust houses in the UK, I think, what you pay to go into Paris attractions and monuments is very reasonable.

Like I said it’s subjective, but here are some things to think about that might help.

• Expectations vs. Reality: Some of the world’s most iconic attractions are in Paris, like the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum, The Palace of Versailles and Notre Dame Cathedral. Landmarks like this are often surrounded by high expectations due to their portrayal in media and popular culture. This might lead you to think they’re overpriced because you’ve built them up in your own mind.
• Crowds and Commercialisation: Popular attractions in Paris tend to draw large crowds, especially during peak tourist seasons. This can lead to long waiting lines and crowded viewing spaces, which might detract from the experience for some visitors. That’s when I’d recommend paying extra for a guided tour or skip-the-line tickets.
• Cultural and Historical Significance: Despite the crowds and costs, the historical and cultural significance of Paris’s attractions cannot be understated. Landmarks like the Louvre house priceless works of art and offer a deep dive into history and culture. Similarly, the architectural grandeur of sites like Sainte-Chapelle or the Panthéon offers unique insights into France’s past.

No 9 Are the Parisians really that rude?

I love this question because it always makes me smile as I remember asking the same thing about the French in general when I first moved here.

And then I learned about the culture of this fabulous country and started to get some perspective on it all.

Parisians have a reputation for being direct and less inclined to engage in small talk or unnecessary pleasantries. This directness, often mistaken for rudeness, is simply a part of the French communication style and differs significantly from the norms in countries like the United States and the UK, where friendliness is often expressed through smiling at strangers or passing the time of day.

Another crucial aspect is the language barrier. Misunderstandings due to language differences can sometimes come across as rudeness. While many people in Paris speak English, not everyone is comfortable or fluent, leading to short or seemingly abrupt. 

The concept of ‘tourist fatigue‘ also plays a role. Paris is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, and residents in heavily trafficked areas might sometimes exhibit impatience or disinterest towards tourists, which can be perceived as rudeness.

However, this is more a reflection of the pressures of living in a heavily touristed area than an indication of their personal demeanour.

To be honest, I feel the same about our nearest town during the summer when we’re overrun with tourists. I just wish they’d go home and let us get back to normal, but that doesn’t mean I’m rude, it just means I like my town ‘sans visiteur’.

No 10 Is it hard to find good food in the city?

It’s ridiculous to think you can’t find good food in Paris, of course you can. But, if you insist on eating in restaurants, next to or close to the big tourist attractions, you’re likely to get overpriced food that isn’t great.

Paris is full of amazing restaurants with incredible food, but you have to know where to go. The best thing to do is again, go off the beaten path and look for the places where the Parisians go.

These are the places serving the best food at reasonable prices.

Like everyone, I enjoy eating at famous places, such as Les Deux Magots, the place where Ernest Hemingway hung out. Or, La Couronne, which I went to when I was in Rouen because it’s where Julia Child had her first French meal.

But, I know these places are going to have a price tag attached, and they may not be great. Luckily, both those places were fabulous, and I had a good experience, but you get my drift. 

Leave the tourist restaurants where they have an English and French menu behind. Instead, look for the quintessential French restaurant the locals use for the best cuisine in Paris.

Five Restaurants in Paris Worth Trying

1. La Cave de l’Os à Moelle: Located in the 15th arrondissement, this restaurant offers a unique experience with its buffet-style service. The food is homely, traditional, and very reasonably priced.
2. Bistrot Paul Bert: Located in the 11th arrondissement, this classic Parisian Bistro serves traditional French cuisine. It’s famous for its steak frites and a great selection of wines.
3. Le Petit Vendôme: A short walk from the Opera, this small bistro is a perfect spot for a quick lunch.
4. Aux Lyonnais: Owned by the famous chef Alain Ducasse in the 2nd arrondissement, it serves traditional dishes from Lyon. 
5. Le Baratin: Situated in Belleville, Le Baratin attracts a crowd for its authentic French dishes and natural wines.

No 11 Is the cost of living ridiculously high?

Yes, it’s true, the cost of living in Paris is high, like many capital cities. Prices have gone up astronomically, and, for many, living in the city is not a reality.

In fact, my French neighbour, here in the Charente, has an apartment in Paris, which she rents out because living there is just too expensive for her.

Many people are looking to move to more rural areas, especially since Covid, but it isn’t always that easy.

Housing, especially, is a significant expense, with rental and purchase prices in central Paris being notably steep.

The costs for everyday items like food, transportation, and utilities are also relatively high, though not excessively more than in other major European capitals.

Dining out and entertainment can be costly, but there are ways to navigate the city more economically, such as shopping at local markets, utilising efficient public transportation, and exploring the array of free cultural experiences available.

No 12 Is Paris the romantic capital of the world?

I don’t think Paris holds the monopoly on romance, but it is certainly up there. It’s definitely been helped by Hollywood showcasing it as the place to go to fall in love.

For a while, if you wanted the ultimate romantic proposal, it had to be the Eiffel Tower. If you want a romantic weekend away, go to Paris, and so it goes on.

All that to say, Paris is a romantic place to come with its gorgeous streets, picturesque Bistros and buildings.

But, I think, like with much of what I’ve talked about here, it is definitely subjective.

No 13 What about the bed bug infestation?

Yep, there was a bed bug infestation in Paris, but it’s under control and not a major health risk.

Bed bugs are not known to transmit diseases, however, their bites can cause discomfort, itchiness, and allergic reactions in some people.

FAQS: Is Paris worth the hype?

Final thoughts: Is Paris worth visiting?

In my opinion, Paris is definitely worth visiting. It’s one of those cities that draws you in, and each time you visit, you fall a little bit more in love with it.

As you can tell, I’m a big fan, and whilst I love living rurally in Southwest France, I still need my city fix and go to Paris every couple of months.

I hope you’ll fall in love with it as much as I have and be able to see past the hype and find your own reasons to love Paris.