Tourist Scams in France: How to Spot and Avoid Them
Published May 30, 2025
France has everything you're dreaming of: iconic landmarks, bustling markets, charming cafés, and postcard-worthy streets. Scams don’t happen to everyone. But when they do, it’s usually someone who didn’t see it coming. A little knowledge makes you much harder to fool.
This guide walks you through some of the most common low-level tourist scams in France, where to watch out for them, and how to avoid falling into these traps. A little preparation can make your trip to France as magical as you imagined, minus the stress.
Quick Tips: Top 5 Tourist Scams to Watch For
In a hurry? Here are the top 5 scams you should know:
The Bracelet Scam: A “free” bracelet tied to your wrist turns into a demand for payment.
Fake Charity Petitions: Often, the petition is fake. And while you’re distracted, an accomplice targets your bag or pockets.
The Dropped Ring Trick: Someone “finds” a fake gold ring and pressures you into buying it.
Overpriced Taxis or Fake Rideshares: Beware of “broken” meters or unofficial drivers overcharging.
Pickpockets in Crowds and Métros: Distractions are used to steal wallets, phones, or bags in busy areas.
Understanding Tourist Scams in France
Why Tourists Are Often Targets
Tourists naturally stand out and are often more focused on sights than their surroundings (read our post How to Not Look Like a Tourist in Paris to help). Scammers count on you being distracted or unfamiliar with local customs. That combination creates an easy opportunity to take advantage. Tourist-heavy areas, from famous landmarks to métro stations, are common places where visitors are targeted.
Jessica: “The first time I visited Montmartre, I was nearly caught in a bracelet scam. Luckily, I’d read about it beforehand and knew to keep walking.”
Jean-Paul: “While scams are common worldwide, knowing the signs can make all the difference in avoiding them here in France.”
Common Scammer Hotspots
Scammers tend to operate in places where tourists gather the most. Popular hotspots include:
Paris landmarks: Think the Eiffel Tower, Champs-Élysées, and Sacré-Cœur.
Busy train stations: Gare du Nord and Gare Saint-Lazare see frequent activity.
Crowded public spaces: Outdoor markets, métro stations, and bus stops.
Tourist-favorite neighborhoods: Areas like Montmartre and Le Marais are common targets.
Common Scams to Watch Out For
The Bracelet Scam
A stranger approaches to tie a bracelet on your wrist as a “gift.” When finished, they demand payment, often aggressively.
Tip: Don’t engage or extend your hand. Walk away quickly and firmly.
Fake Charity Petition Scam
A scammer asks you to sign a petition (often fake) and pressures you for a donation. While you’re distracted, an accomplice may attempt to pickpocket you.
Jessica: “This scam is surprisingly common worldwide. A quick “Non, merci” and walking away usually does the trick.”
The Dropped Ring Trick
A scammer pretends to “find” a gold ring on the ground and insists you buy it at a discount. Spoiler: It’s fake.
Tip: Politely decline and move on. It’s not worth the hassle.
Pickpocketing
Pickpockets are quick, clever, and often working in groups. They target busy public spaces where travelers are distracted, and Paris is a prime hunting ground. While landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and Champs-Élysées attract plenty of attention, many thefts actually happen in transit, especially on the Paris Métro.
One tactic to watch out for: distraction just before train doors close. A sudden bump, a dropped item, or someone “helping” with luggage can all be used as cover while an accomplice grabs your phone or wallet and slips out just as the doors shut.
Certain stations are riskier than others. For example, Tuileries station on Line 1 has only one exit, which causes crowd bottlenecks, perfect for pickpockets to blend in and work quickly. Escalators, turnstiles, and ticket machines are also prime spots, as tourists tend to slow down and expose bags or pockets.
Tip: Use a crossbody bag with locking zippers, and wear it in front of your body. Keep your phone and wallet deep inside, not in your back pocket or an outer pouch.
Jean-Paul: “If someone’s creating a distraction near a metro exit or train door, assume it’s not random. Protect your bag first, then keep moving.”
Overpriced Taxis and Fake Rideshares
Some “taxis” charge extra by claiming their meter is broken, or they take unnecessarily long routes. Fake rideshare drivers may also overcharge.
Jean-Paul: “Always stick to official taxis or apps like Uber or G7. Avoid unmarked drivers, especially at the airport.”
Restaurant Overcharging
Some restaurants in heavily touristic areas pad bills with extra fees or inflate prices for visitors.
Tip: Check menu prices carefully, and review your bill before paying.
How to Stay Safe from Scams
Staying safe while traveling doesn’t have to feel burdensome. Here are some easy ways to stay ahead of scammers:
Stay aware: Keep an eye on your belongings and surroundings, especially in busy areas.
Plan ahead: Research common scams and familiarize yourself with public transit and neighborhoods.
Secure valuables: Use an anti-theft bag, avoid flashing cash or valuables, and keep documents locked away at your hotel when you don’t need them.
Use basic French phrases: Phrases like “Non merci” (No, thank you) or “Je n’ai pas de monnaie” (I don’t have cash) can discourage persistent scammers.
Follow your instincts: If something feels off, a confident “No” or walking away usually ends the interaction.
What to Do If You’re Scammed
No matter how cautious you are, things can still happen. Here’s what to do if you fall victim to a scam:
Contact the authorities: In Paris, you can call the police at 17 or visit a local station.
Reach out to your embassy: They can help with anything from replacing stolen documents to offering guidance.
Check your travel insurance: If you lose valuables, your insurance may cover some or all of the costs. Review your policy to confirm.
Final Thoughts: Scams and Safe Travels
Scams shouldn’t be the story you bring home. A little awareness is all it takes to stay ahead of the most common tricks. Pay attention, trust your instincts, and enjoy the France you came for. Not the headache someone tried to hand you!
Jean-Paul: “Being scammed shouldn’t be the souvenir you take home.” We couldn’t agree more. Have an amazing trip. And remember, a bit of preparation (and some confidence) goes a long way. Bon voyage!
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