Solo Travel in Paris: Is It Worth It? What to Know Before You Go

Going to Paris alone and wondering if you’ll love it or regret it? I’ve been there. I’ve visited Paris six times and I host girls-only group trips there, so this is the honest solo travel Paris guide I wish I had on my first visit. While I absolutely loved traveling solo to Paris, there were a few things I wish I had known before planning my trip. In this guide, I’ll share it all: the good, the bad, and the “don’t make my mistakes” kind of details.

You’ll learn how to get to and from the airports, scams to watch for, what’s worth your time (and what’s not), the best areas to stay (and where you should avoid), plus everything you don’t want to miss as a solo traveler in Paris. My safety-first tips come straight from real trips and the tours I lead.

Yes, traveling alone to Paris is absolutely worth it. The city is safe when you know where to go, easy to get around with a little planning, and packed with things you’ll love doing on your own.

Is It Worth Traveling Alone to Paris?

If you want safety, simple transport, and plenty of solo-friendly experiences, Paris delivers. You can move confidently between neighborhoods, join small tours when you want company, and spend your days exactly how you like.

In the sections below, I’ll show you what to expect, how to avoid common scams, which airport makes arrival easiest, and where to stay so you feel comfortable from day one.

Solo Travel Pros and Cons: Paris

Pros of Traveling Solo in Paris	Cons of Traveling Solo in Paris
Endless Things to Do Alone – From museums to picnics by the Seine, you’ll never run out of solo-friendly activities.	Can Be Expensive – Paris isn’t cheap. Pro Tip: Use credit card points, get a Paris Museum Pass, or plan budget-friendly picnics instead of dining out every meal.
Café Culture Heaven – Sitting alone at a Parisian café with a croissant and coffee feels completely normal and wonderful.	Long Lines at Major Attractions – Popular sights like the Louvre or the Eiffel Tower can have long waits. How to Overcome: Book tickets online in advance or visit early in the morning or late afternoon.
Easy Public Transport – The Metro makes getting around solo super convenient and affordable.	Pickpockets in Tourist Areas – Be mindful in crowded spots and on the Metro. Pro Tip: Use an anti-theft crossbody bag and keep valuables close.
Perfect for Photography – Every corner is a photo opportunity, and you can take your time capturing your favorite moments.	Language Barrier – Some interactions can be tricky outside tourist zones. How to Overcome: Download Babbel and learn a few key French phrases.
Plenty of Safe Accommodations – Boutique hotels and well-rated hostels make it easy to find safe, central stays.	Dining Solo Can Feel Intimidating – It can feel awkward eating alone at night. Pro Tip: Sit at the bar, choose casual cafés, or go during lunch when it’s more relaxed.
Fashion and Inspiration Everywhere – Perfect place to people-watch and soak up style and culture at your own pace.	Locals Can Seem Reserved – Parisians can take a little time to warm up. How to Overcome: Join a food tour, wine tasting, or local walking experience to meet people.
Empowering Experience – Navigating Paris solo gives you confidence and independence.	Weather Can Be Moody – Rain is common, especially in spring and fall. Pro Tip: Pack a compact umbrella and plan indoor activities as backups.

Is Paris Safe for Solo Travelers? What to Watch Out For

Safety is always my number one concern when traveling alone as a female. Honestly, I won’t even consider going somewhere unless I feel confident it’s safe. Looking over my shoulder the entire trip is not my idea of fun.

When I visited Paris solo, I felt safe overall. Of course, you may have seen stories or reels on Instagram showing homelessness, protests, or pickpocketing in the city, but that’s not the full picture.

Like any major city, Paris has neighborhoods that are better to avoid, especially late at night, but that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy the city confidently.

I found that by staying in the right areas, being aware of my surroundings, and knowing a few safety tips, I could relax and enjoy everything Paris has to offer.

The biggest issues tend to be petty theft and scams rather than violent crime, which is why I recommend taking simple precautions like carrying a crossbody bag that zips, avoiding crowded metro doors, and being cautious around popular tourist sites such as the Eiffel Tower and Sacré-Cœur.

Common Scams in Paris to Watch Out For

As a solo traveler, staying informed about common scams you might encounter in Paris is important.

While there’s no need for alarm, maintaining vigilance can help you navigate these challenges.

Here are some of the most frequent scams I’ve been cautioned against and observed firsthand.

Tie A String on Your Finger

Look out for anyone who innocently walks up to you and starts talking about a tradition where in their culture tying a string around your finger means good luck, or health, or whatever.

Look away, ignore, and just keep walking.

They want to either distract you so that someone can pick-pocket you or they will ask you for money.

Woman With A Clipboard

Similar to the scam above, these women will walk right up to you, asking you to sign something.

The scam is usually someone nearby who is ready to pickpocket you once they have your attention and you are distracted.

Find The Ball Under the Cup and Win a Prize

The scam involves a scammer using three cups or shells and a small ball. They’ll deftly shuffle the ball under the cups, challenging onlookers to guess its location.

Initially, to attract a crowd and build trust, accomplices, posing as unsuspecting tourists, will play and win, creating an illusion of simplicity and fairness.

However, once a real tourist bets money, the scammer uses sleight of hand to ensure the tourist loses.

This might include quick, misleading movements or even removing the ball from under the cups subtly.

The game, rigged from the start, is designed to entice tourists with the prospect of easy money but ends up swindling them instead.

Which Paris Airport Is Best To Fly Into?

Depending on where you are flying from, you may have a choice of airports. I usually pick Orly when I can because it’s the closest and easiest for getting into the city.

That said, each airport has its pros and cons, so here’s a quick comparison to help you decide which one works best for your trip:

Airport	Distance to City Center	Best For	Transport Options	Typical Ticket Cost	Things to Know
Orly (ORY)	~8 miles	Closest to central Paris, convenient for Left Bank	Orlybus to Denfert-Rochereau, Orlyval + RER	~€11–15	Fastest arrival, smaller airport feel, fixed-fare taxis available
Charles de Gaulle (CDG)	~15 miles	Long-haul international flights	RER B train direct to central hubs, taxis, buses	~€11–13 (train)	Busy but efficient, fixed-fare taxis available, expect longer lines
Beauvais (BVA)	~53 miles	Budget carriers (like Ryanair)	Shuttle bus to Paris (1 hr 15+), private transfers	~€15–20 (shuttle)	Far from the city, only worth it if the airfare savings are significant

My Pick: I usually pay a little more to fly into Orly rather than BVA. It’s closer and easier when you are solo.

Arriving in Paris Alone & Getting to The Center

Depending on the airport you land at, several public transit options are available to connect you to the heart of Paris seamlessly.

Upon my first arrival in Paris, navigating my way to the city center felt daunting.

While I managed it with no problem, there are some things to consider.

I don’t recommend taking transit alone from the airport to the city if any of the following apply!

• It’s late at night
• You don’t regularly take public transit in your home city
• It’s your first time traveling solo
• You have a lot of luggage
• The flight took more than 4 hours to get to Paris.

I am not suggesting you avoid transit the whole trip, just consider alternatives for the arrival.

Don’t try to be a transit hero on your first day and start the trip by biting off more than you can chew.

PRO TIP: If you are a first-time visitor solo traveler and don’t feel comfortable navigating public transit alone, book an airport transfer. I always use Welcome Pickups because of their rates and reliable service. 

Is It Safe To Take the Metro Alone in Paris?

Common question: If I’m in Paris solo, will I be safe taking transit???

The short answer is YES! But this is a big city, where you do need to be mindful.

I used the well-connected public transportation system alone as well as walked the streets at night by myself.

Navigating Paris was easy because I prepared myself ahead of time.

If this is your first time traveling alone, it is a good idea to map out your transit in advance!

Pro Tip: Even though I found Paris to be safe, I ALWAYS recommend getting travel insurance to avoid any mishaps. Lost luggage or getting sick can happen at any time.

Here are some tips for using the inner city transit:

Metro:

The Paris Metro is the go-to method of transportation in the City of Lights. It has many lines that can quickly take you to different neighborhoods and attractions.

Paris Transit App:

• Transit App for Android (Bonjour RATP)
• Transit App for Apple (Bonjour RATP)

Just be vigilant when at the metro station. As with many other metros in a big city, you need to always keep an eye on your personal belongings! Don’t forget to validate your ticket and have it on you. There are checks and you will need the ticket to exit the station.

the Navigo Card Transit Card, and why you need it!

One of the best tips I received when going to Paris was to get the Navigo card and pair it with the Bonjour RATP app.

You will need to buy the physical card at any of the machines in the Metro stations.

Select this option when buying a day pass for zones 1 &2 on your first day.

The card itself costs €2, and once you have it, you can EASILY reload it from the app, which makes life so much easier!

Use Transit Apps For Directions to Exit the Station

I feel silly to admit this, but until recently, I didn’t notice that Google Maps actually tells you which exit to use when leaving the metro station.

As you can see below, the signs in the station correspond with the information online.

Walking:

Paris is a great city to explore by foot! Put on some comfortable shoes, use CityMapper, not Google Maps, and find your way around.

City Mapper is actually better than Google Maps in so many ways! It gives you smart options to get to your destination as well as gives you the calorie burn amount which I think is pretty neat.

If you are out walking after dark, keep drinking to a minimum and always be aware of your surroundings.

Avoid the obvious, like strolling in dark alleys alone after too many glasses of wine!

Taxis:

If your feet are burning from a day of exploring you can get a taxi! I used an app called G7, but you can also try Free Now, although they have fewer taxis.

Keep in mind that taxi prices may be higher during busy times or in heavy traffic.

Is there Uber in Paris?

YES! There is Uber in Paris. Uber operates in several cities in France such as Bordeaux, Toulouse, Lyon, Nice, Strasbourg, and more! For a full list check out the official website.

Best Area to Stay in Paris for Solo Travelers 

Paris neighborhoods are organized into arrondissements; the closer to the center, the lower the number.

You can also bank on the closer to the center, the more expensive the hotels will be.

9th Arrondissement

I stayed in the 9th and 10th arrondissements on my solo trip to Paris. While I thought the 10th was convenient and a cool place to stay, I can’t say enough good things about staying in the 9th!

My hotel of choice is Hôtel Sacha! It is a quiet, boutique-style hotel in a neighborhood I am absolutely in love with!

The price was also reasonable (compared to hotels in the US). I paid around $150 per night in the month of April.

Alternative areas to stay in solo in Paris are:

Le Marais

Le Marais is a vibe for sure. Located in the 4th arrondissement, it’s a favorite of mine. Go on any social media platform, and you’ll see Le Marais is a favorite among solo travelers.

This central neighborhood offers a perfect blend of charming cobblestone streets, trendy boutiques, art galleries, and a lively nightlife scene if you are into that sort of thing.

One of my favorite restaurants, Chez Janou, is located in Le Marais! They have bar seating, which is ideal for solo travelers!

Le Marais is also well-connected by public transportation, perfect to use as a base to spend a weekend in Paris, allowing for easy exploration of other parts of the city.

Click Here For Hotels in the Le Marais Neighborhood

Saint-Germain-des-Prés

Located in the 6th arrondissement on the Left Bank of the Seine, Saint-Germain-des-Prés has a bohemian and intellectual ambiance.

It has a rich literary and artistic heritage, with historic cafes like Café de Flore and Les Deux Magots that have hosted famous writers and philosophers.

This neighborhood offers Instagrammable-worthy streets to wander, upscale boutiques, art galleries, and renowned institutions like the Musée d’Orsay.

The central location of this neighborhood makes it a super convenient base for exploring Paris.

Areas to Avoid Staying As A Solo Traveler

Paris is mostly a safe city for tourists, including solo travelers. However, some areas might require extra vigilance, especially at night.

In my travels, I tend to be cautious in the northern parts of the 18th and 19th arrondissement.

These areas, particularly around the Porte de la Chapelle and Gare du Nord experience crime, and can feel a bit edgy due to the bustling traffic and crowded streets.

Although they have their charms by day, places like Château Rouge and Barbès are known for being a bit more hectic and might not be the best places for solo travelers looking for a quiet evening stroll.

Remember, every city has its nuances, and Paris is no exception. It’s all about finding the spots that make you feel comfortable and enjoying what this beautiful city has to offer!

Top Things To Do Alone in Paris

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When planning your solo trip to Paris Itinerary, I imagine you will want to hit all the iconic spots am I right?

I admit, they are very touristy, but honestly, 100% worth visiting on your first trip to Paris.

Here are the quintessential things to do in Paris solo…

READ MORE: I also wrote a detailed 3-day itinerary of how to spend your time in Paris!

Visit the Eiffel Tower: Rating 10/10 (exterior visit)

While I know it could be considered touristy, I think it’s 100% worth it to stroll around the Eiffel Tower. Now, if you don’t have many days in Paris, I don’t think you need to spend hours of it waiting to get to the top of the Eiffel Tower. In my opinion, the exterior visit is enough.

But if you are going to do it, I think it’s more fun in a group. That is why I highly recommend visiting the Eiffel Tower with this affordable guided tour option!

It is a great way to meet other travelers, solo or not; I always end up making a friend.

Stroll Along the Seine River (Rating: 10/10)

Simple, but magical. I had to pinch myself when I walked along the Seine, which is a quintessential Parisian experience.

The riverbanks are a UNESCO World Heritage site and offer stunning views of many of Paris’ famous landmarks.

It’s a perfect spot for some peaceful reflection or to enjoy a good book from one of the iconic bouquinistes (second-hand book stalls).

Explore the Musée du Louvre (Rating: 8/10)

I’m not the world’s biggest museum person, but even I would insist that you visit the Louvre! Did you know it’s the world’s largest art museum?

As a solo traveler, I would consider downloading an audio guide or joining a small group tour to enhance my visit.

The most famous masterpieces here are the Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo!

Get Your Ticket Now: Louvre Museum Timed Entry Ticket

Wander Through Montmartre (Rating 10/10)

Montmartre is an artistic and soulful neighborhood outside the city center. You’ll find charming streets, stunning views from the Sacré-Cœur Basilica, and a lot of hills!

From the center of the city, you are looking at about a 30-minute metro ride that is absolutely worth the trip!

Montmartre has several idyllic cafes including La Maison Rose which is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. Spend an afternoon in the Place du Tertre just sipping café au lait and taking pictures.

Visit the Musée d’Orsay (Rating 9/10)

Housed in a grand former railway station, the Musée d’Orsay is a great place to visit if you are into Impressionist and Post-Impressionist masterpieces.

It’s less overwhelming than the Louvre and offers a fantastic artistic experience, particularly if you enjoy works by Monet, Degas, and Van Gogh.

Explore the Luxembourg Gardens (Rating: 10/10)

The Jardin du Luxembourg is one of the best places to visit in Paris on a sunny day! It is famously featured in the show, Emily in Paris, one of my favorites.

The Luxembourg Gardens are free to explore, but if you want to visit the Musée du Luxembourg there is a fee.

Take Yourself Out For Tea & Cake

Go on a little date with yourself solo in Paris at Le Jardin de Mademoiselle!

Located in the 7th Arrondissement, this adorable little tea and cake shop does an excellent high tea.

It’s the perfect spot to treat yourself to something sweet on a mid-afternoon in Paris!

Shopping at Galeries Lafayette (Rating: 8/10)

A wonderful way to enjoy some solo time in Paris is by indulging in a bit of retail therapy at Galeries Lafayette!

It’s a famous upscale department store in Paris known for its wide selection of high-end goods, ranging from fashion to beauty products, and even gourmet food.

It’s well-known for its stunning architecture, including a remarkable stained-glass dome.

Even if you don’t plan to buy anything I insist you visit the top floor which leads to a rooftop observation deck with views of the Eiffel Tower! Just a bit of a warning, it gets VERY crowded, so go early if possible.

Go To A Moulin Rouge Show (Rating: 10/10)

Attending a Moulin Rouge show can be super fun, even if you’re on your own! It’s on the pricier side of things to do in Paris, but hey, you are worth it.

After the show, since the area can get a bit iffy late at night, it’s a good idea to take a taxi or Uber back to your accommodation.

This ensures you’ll end your fabulous evening on a safe and comfortable note!

What to Pack For A Trip To Paris

Now, I know I don’t need to state the obvious, like pack clothes per the season you are visiting, but I there are a few essentials:

• comfortable walking shoes for exploring the city streets
• Shampoo for hard water like this one from Ion
• a simple black dress that goes with everything
• Leggings are easy to pack
• a light jacket or sweater
• a stylish yet practical day bag
• a universal adapter for charging electronics
• an umbrella
• a reusable water bottle (yes, you can drink tap water in Paris)
• Use a small suitcase like Level8 to comply with European Airlines 

Remember, you might want to actually buy clothes there and bring them home, so consider leaving a little room in the suitcase.

Don’t forget the basic essentials like travel documents, a copy of your passport, and any necessary medication.

Best Paris Tours for Solo Travellers

When I travel solo, I always try to join a couple of tours if I have the time. It is the best way to make new friends!

In Paris, I joined a few that I would recommend!

• Day Trip to Mount Saint Michel – It’s a long full day off the beaten path, but well worth it! I made a friend on the bus that I spent the day with.
• Bike tour to Versailles! – You can always just go to Versailles alone on the train from Paris, but I highly recommend going on a bike tour!

Wrapping Up & Where to Go After Paris?

Now that I wrap up this guide to Paris, I hope you have found it helpful in your planning a trip to Paris alone!

If you have more time to explore France on your own, might I suggest a trip to Bordeaux!?

You can spend a few days in Bordeaux by taking the train from Paris in under 3 hours! Bordeaux is a wonderful smaller city to visit alone if you are interested in art, food, and wine tasting!

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