Is Paris Safe for Solo Female Travellers?
Yes, Paris is generally safe for solo female travellers, but like any major city, it comes with things you need to be aware of. During my solo stay in Paris, I felt safe most of the time, especially in busy, well-lit areas like the Latin Quarter, Le Marais, and near the Eiffel Tower.
However, some moments reminded me to stay alert, like when a man followed me briefly in the Montmartre area. I quickly walked into a shop and waited it out. That’s when I realized how important it is to trust your instincts.
Petty theft, especially pickpocketing, is the most common crime in Paris. Be extra careful around tourist-heavy spots like the Champs-Élysées, Gare du Nord, and the metro.
Here are the key things to consider before your solo trip to Paris:
1. Choose the Right Area to Stay
My Advice: Stay in central, well-connected, and safe neighborhoods like:
- Le Marais – Trendy, lively, and walkable.
- Saint-Germain-des-Prés – Charming and elegant.
- Latin Quarter – Young, cultural, and close to major landmarks.
Avoid staying near Gare du Nord or isolated areas of the 18th, 19th, or 20th arrondissements, especially at night.
2. Be Alert on Public Transport
What to Know: The metro is efficient, but be mindful of pickpockets, especially during rush hours.
Tip: Wear a crossbody bag, keep it zipped and in front of you. Don’t flash valuables or your phone.
3. Mind the Scams
What Happened to Me: Near the Louvre, someone tried the “ring scam” pretending to find a gold ring and offering it to me. I smiled, said “Non, merci,” and walked away.
Common Scams: Petition scams, fake charity requests, overly friendly strangers.
4. Know Local Emergency Info
- Emergency Number: Dial 112 or 17 in case of any issue.
- Police Presence: There are tourist police in popular areas. Don’t hesitate to speak to them.
5. Use Well-Known Transport at Night
Avoid: Unlicensed taxis or walking through dark streets alone.
Use: Uber, Bolt, or G7 (local app-based taxis). Or stay near your accommodation after dark.
6. Learn a Few French Phrases
Parisians appreciate when you make an effort, even if your French isn’t perfect. A simple “Bonjour, excusez-moi” goes a long way.
7. Blend In
Dress modestly, walk with purpose, and avoid looking lost. Google Maps offline helps a lot. Sit at cafés and observe locals to pick up the vibe.
8. Solo-Friendly Spots
- Jardin du Luxembourg – Beautiful gardens where I read alone without worry.
- Shakespeare and Company Bookstore – A dream for book lovers.
- Musée d’Orsay – Felt safe and inspiring.
- Café de Flore – Sit outside with a coffee and a journal. You won’t feel alone.
Paris is not all perfect, but it welcomes solo travellers with open arms as long as you move smart, stay alert, and enjoy the ride. Let the city show you its beauty, one cobbled street at a time.
Where to Stay for Easy and Safe Access to All of Paris
From my solo trip, I found that staying centrally located made all the difference. I could walk to major landmarks, easily hop on the metro, and return safely even after evening strolls.
Here are the top safe and well-connected areas with hotel recommendations:
Le Marais – Trendy, Central, and Full of Character
Why I Loved It: I stayed at Hotel Jeanne d’Arc Le Marais, and it felt like a hidden gem, charming, super safe, and just a short walk to the Seine and Notre-Dame. The cobbled streets were always lively but never overwhelming.
Budget: Mid-range (~€130/night).
Perfect For: Walkable sightseeing, boutique cafés, solo photo walks.
Saint-Germain-des-Prés – Classic Parisian Charm
Why I Loved It: I spent two nights at Hôtel des Saints-Pères. It’s elegant, quiet, and close to the Musée d’Orsay and Luxembourg Gardens. I felt relaxed walking at night and loved journaling at nearby cafés.
Budget: Mid to high (~€160–€200/night).
Perfect For: Art lovers, peaceful evenings, and solo café culture.
Latin Quarter – Cultural, Youthful, and Vibrant
Why I Loved It: I stayed at Hotel du College de France, right near the Sorbonne. Mornings started with fresh croissants, and evenings were filled with music from the nearby square. Great energy, but never felt unsafe.
Budget: Budget-friendly (~€90–€120/night).
Perfect For: Budget solo travellers, easy metro access, lively but safe vibe.
Best Places to Visit in Paris as a Solo Female Traveller
When I explored Paris alone, I learned that the magic often lives in the little moments, standing on a quiet bridge, hearing the distant sound of an accordion, or sipping tea in a small café. Here are the places that made me feel safe, inspired, and deeply connected:
Eiffel Tower at Sunset
I went around 5 PM and watched the sky turn golden behind the tower. Sitting on the Champ de Mars lawn with a pastry and a book, I felt completely at ease.
Montmartre and Sacré-Cœur
I climbed the stairs slowly, taking breaks to breathe and look around. The view from the top felt like a reward. Artists sketching on the street made me feel like I stepped into a painting.
Shakespeare and Company Bookstore
I spent hours browsing the shelves, talking to other readers, and even wrote in their guest book. It’s a lovely spot where you feel like part of something timeless.
Le Marais
This neighborhood was my favorite. Stylish yet quiet. I walked into boutiques and bakeries, sat in a courtyard with a coffee, and felt like I belonged.
Musée d’Orsay
Not too overwhelming, and filled with beautiful Impressionist works. I rented the audio guide and wandered through rooms at my own pace.
Jardin du Luxembourg
Peaceful and spacious. I found a green chair by the fountain and wrote in my travel journal as children sailed boats nearby.
A Ride on Tram 1
Instead of the metro, I tried the tram along the Seine. It was slow, but I saw parts of the city I would have missed. A great way to rest and still explore.
Palais Royal Gardens
Quiet and refined. The black-and-white striped columns add a playful contrast to the serene garden. It was a perfect spot for journaling.
Tuileries Garden
Near the Louvre, but surprisingly calm. I sat by the Ferris wheel, enjoyed roasted chestnuts, and felt like I had found my own space in the city.
Sainte-Chapelle
The stained glass took my breath away. I arrived early and sat in silence, soaking in the colored light. It was a peaceful and spiritual pause in a busy day.
Paris is full of beauty, but it reveals itself differently when you’re on your own. When you travel solo, you’re not just visiting the city, you’re building your relationship with it.
Essentials to Carry in Case of Emergency (From My Experience)
Whether it’s your first time in Paris or your fifth, being prepared can make you feel safer and more confident. Here’s what I always carry with me:
- Photocopy of Passport – In case your passport gets lost or stolen.
- Emergency Contacts – A printed list of contacts, including your country’s embassy.
- Credit Card + Small Cash – Keep a separate card hidden and around €20–€50 in cash.
- Portable Charger – Your phone is your map, translator, and lifeline.
- Health Insurance Card & Travel Insurance Info – Always carry your policy details.
- Mini First Aid Kit – Band-aids, painkillers, allergy medicine.
- Pepper Spray (check legality) – Optional, and only if allowed by local laws.
- Reusable Water Bottle – Stay hydrated while you explore.
- Foldable Tote or Day Bag – Useful for spontaneous market visits or picnics.
- Offline Map or Printed Map – Just in case your phone dies.
Being prepared doesn’t mean being afraid; it just means you can enjoy every moment more confidently.
Trust Yourself and Let Paris Show You Its Magic
Paris isn’t just a city, it’s a feeling. As a solo female traveller, you’ll experience it in a deeply personal way. You’ll find joy in the simple things: a croissant at sunrise, a bookshop tucked away in a quiet corner, or a quiet walk along the Seine.
There may be moments when you feel unsure; that’s okay. Trust your instincts, stay alert, and keep your heart open. The beauty of travelling solo means every decision is made from your heart. And Paris, with all its wonder and charm, is waiting to meet you exactly where you are.
You’re not alone in this journey, the world is full of solo women exploring, learning, and becoming stronger with every step. So pack light, be bold, and let Paris be part of your story.
