Paris during the 2024 Olympics
- Ward B
- Jul 29, 2024
- 3 min read
Updated: Oct 20, 2024
Paris, the City of Light, is gearing up to host the 2024 Summer Olympics. It's an exciting time to visit with so much to see and do.
Paris, the City of Light, is hosting the 2024 Summer Olympics. As with any big city, especially during a major event, it's important to stay safe, especially for solo travelers.
Here's a down-to-earth guide to help you enjoy Paris and the Olympics without a hitch.
Petty theft and pickpocketing are very common
1. Petty Theft
Paris is generally safe for visitors, including solo travelers and women. However, visitors should be aware that even though violent crime is not common, there is a lot of petty theft and pickpocketing.
Carry a crossbody bag or a backpack with zippers that can be secured. Keep it in front of you and hold onto it in crowded places.
A money belt, designed to be worn around the waist, is a discreet way to carry your money, and credit cards
It is advised to not carry your passport everywhere. Make copies of important documents such as your passport, ID, and carry those copies with you whenever possible.
Keep expensive jewelry, cameras, and electronics out of sight as much as possible to avoid attracting unwanted attention.
2. Unsafe Areas
Although generally safe, there are some areas to be avoided :
Avoid the 18th, 19th, and 20th Arrondissement, which are known to be sketchy at night.
Stay away from the areas around the train stations, especially the Gare du Nord station and the Gare de l’Est station. The city limits can also be dangerous for visitors.
Be extra cautious for pickpocketing near famous landmarks such as Notre Dame, Arc de Triomphe, the Louvre, and the Eiffel Tower.
The easiest way to tell which areas to avoid and which places to see, use our free Zones.City app. When you prepare your trip, book your accommodation in our identified green zones.
3. Common scams
Paris is busy and bustling with activity. Unfortunately, this allows for scam artists to work their art. Typical scams include:
Petition Scam: People asking you to sign a petition, then demanding money aggressively.
Metro Ticket Assistance Scam: At Metro stations, scammers may offer unsolicited help with purchasing tickets from vending machines. They may either confuse you into buying unnecessary tickets or attempt to pocket your money during the transaction.
Three Card Monte/Shell Game: You'll encounter this game played on makeshift tables or cardboard boxes on the streets. The operator will entice bystanders to bet on finding a hidden object under one of three shuffled cards or shells.
Friendship Bracelet Scam: Someone weaves a bracelet on your wrist quickly, and then asks you to pay for it.
Clear Cup Scam: A beggar puts a cup with coins in front of a tourist’s foot so they accidentally kick it. The tourist feels bad and helps pick up the coins, usually adding some extra money to say sorry.
4. Terror Risk: Stay Informed and Vigilant
Due the conflict in the Middle East and Ukraine, there is an increased terror risk. As we speak, besides the railway sabotage, no actual terrorist attacks on European territory has been observed . The French government and local authorities will provide alerts if needed.
Expect increased security checks at event venues and tourist sites. Follow the instructions of security personnel and report any suspicious activity.
Know the exits. Always be aware of the nearest exits in crowded places. This can be crucial in an emergency.
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