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On the ground

Staying safe in Paris

Paris is a safe city to visit, and the main thing to manage is petty theft in crowded tourist spots and on the busiest Metro lines. Knowing the emergency numbers and a few common scams covers most of what a first visit needs.

Last checked June 17, 2026

Everyday safety and pickpockets

Violent crime is rare in the areas visitors use, but pickpocketing is the real and persistent risk, concentrated around the major monuments, on packed Metro and RER trains, and at the airport stations. Keep your phone and wallet in a front pocket or zipped bag, and be extra alert in crowds and on escalators.

Stay aware late at night around the big stations and quieter transfer points, as you would in any large city. The ordinary precautions you would take in a busy capital are enough for the parts of Paris a trip uses.

Emergencies

For an emergency, the Europe-wide number 112 reaches police, ambulance, and fire and works from any phone. France also has direct lines: 17 for police, 15 for medical emergencies, and 18 for the fire service, who also handle many medical calls.

Pharmacies, marked by a green cross, can advise on minor health needs, and many areas have one on a late or duty rota. Keep your accommodation address and a copy of your documents handy in case you need them.

Scams and disruptions

A handful of street scams recur around the busiest sights: petition sheets used to distract, friendship bracelets pushed onto your wrist, and the cup-and-ball game on the pavement. A firm no and keeping walking is the right response, and never hand over your phone or wallet to a stranger.

Demonstrations and the occasional transit strike are a normal part of Paris life and are usually announced in advance. Check the news and the transit operators before a big travel day, and simply avoid the route of any large march.

Sources

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