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France: 11 things tourists should never do in Paris

Things to avoid when visiting Paris

Paris is a capital amazing to visit, but there are some things that tourists should never do while visiting. Just follow these rules and ensure the chance to have a fabulous time in what has recently been named the most stylish city in the world.

Never buy tickets for attractions and shows on the day of the event.

To save time and avoid long lines in Paris, be sure to purchase your tickets online in advance. The view from the Notre Dame towers is breathtaking, for example - € 10 ($ 11,61) to climb - but the lines are breathtaking. What's great is that tourists can find out how long the queue will be in line before they decide to go or not. Better yet, skip the line and download the revolutionary JeFile app available at Google play or App Store.

The crowd at Notre-Dame │ Lionel Allorge / Wikimedia Commons

Never take the stairs of Abbesses metro station in Paris.

Most people get on and off at Abbesses de Paris metro station after visiting Montmarte's iconic filming locations for 'Amélie'. Some will have to wait a bit before arriving at the elevator, which will make them tempted to take the stairs. However, with its epic 36 meters and grueling 200 steps, Abbesses is the highest station in the Paris metro network. Better to wait for the elevator.

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Never take pictures in the famous Shakespeare And Company bookstore in Paris.

Steeped in literary history and the perfect place to reflect, this incredible bookstore is on every book lover's list. The store is very relaxed in some ways, offering armchairs and benches with soft seating throughout the bookstore for readers to sit down and check out an interesting one. However, there are certain rules that they fiercely enforce: one of them is not to take pictures. Although some tourists try to sneak photos, it can get them into trouble. The bookstore also has other rules such as not petting the resident cat, but the rule without a photo is the most serious.

Shakespeare and company Wikimedia Commons

Never board a Parisian means of transport without a valid ticket

In London, most central stations have a listening system that makes it impossible to escape without a valid ticket. However, people only need the ticket to enter as all exits are automatically opened in Paris. While it may seem tempting for some people to skip the purchase of tickets, those who do may be subject to a hefty fine.

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Never assume that people speak English just because it is the capital.

Since Paris is the capital and therefore one of the most multicultural regions in France, there are a lot of people who speak English quite well. But there are also Parisians who are fed up with tourists who don't bother to learn a single word of French. It is a good idea to start a conversation in French if possible, even if it is something as simple as "how to go to the station".' (how to get to the station).

Never expect the Metro to get you to your destination on time.

With the ability to escape the traffic jams that buses block most of the time, the Paris metro is one of the most convenient ways to get around the city. However, it all depends on the metro line. Users who take one of the modern, automated sliding-door metros like Line 1 are somewhat less likely to experience problems with older metros like those that run on Line 11 and its flashing lights between Châtelet and Hôtel de Ville and some delays between stations. Be sure to allow more time.

paris metro Free photos / Pixabay

Never pay with big banknotes in the bakery.

There are hundreds of bakeries in Paris, and eating a still warm pain au chocolat or croissant in the morning while looking at the Eiffel Tower or sipping a glass of orange juice is one of the tastiest parts of a trip. But given the relatively low price of their products, bakeries don't like having to break huge banknotes. So be sure to pay with small change if possible.

Never count on taxis late at night in Paris

It is not uncommon to have to spend an hour looking for a taxi in Paris because, unlike cities like New York and London, night owls cannot rely on a cab passing by. In addition, the taxi stand system is extremely unreliable, even during the day. However, smartphone car services like Uber, LeCabet HelloCab are a fabulous alternative and are sure to arrive when needed.

Never underestimate the tradition of kissing the cheeks

Those lucky enough to be invited to a French party or just invited to a group meal, be ready to hug each person. Contrary to what some might expect, kiss strangers on the cheek en masse and not just friends and family members is the norm. Even if there are 40 guests, those who skip this social tradition will be seen as rude.

A kiss on the cheek to say "hello" is the norm. Simon Blackley / Flickr

Never ask for your steak to be well cooked in upscale Parisian restaurants.

French cuisine tends to cook meat lighter than what tourists are used to, and that's why it's sometimes seen as rude to ask for a well-done steak. The flavors of meat are said to burn when overcooked, spoiling the treat. Of course, those who can't quite take French thought may request the 'well cooked', but many waiters will try to tip diners to try it 'cooked to perfection' instead.

Never forget your French polite phrases

Since Paris is full of tourists, it's easy to get on the bad side of locals who get mad at the crowds. So remember to use good manners when interacting with service staff, street vendors, or even when just brushing people in the subway. Politely greet others with a few learned phrases like pardon (sorry), Hello (Hello), goodbye (goodbye and mercy (thank you) and avoid being seen as a boring and rude tourist.

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Written by marion v.

A French expatriate, loves traveling and enjoys visiting beautiful places in each country. Marion has been writing for over 15 years; writing articles, whitepapers, product write-ups and more for multiple online media sites, blogs, company websites and individuals.

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