The most common tourist scams to know before a trip to Paris
Though most tourist hotspots around the world have issues with scams and pickpockets, Paris has earned a bad reputation for tourists being ripped off.
It's a safe city, and travellers shouldn't feel worried about visiting.
But during busy periods like the Olympic Games and European summer, it's smart to be aware of some of the most common scams before you go.
READ MORE: What travellers need to know before visiting Paris for the first time
Paris has a bad rep for tourists being scammed and pickpocketed. Getty
Petitions
Though signing a petition may seem harmless, this is a common distraction tactic used by pickpocketers. People roam in small groups with clipboards that show a list of signatures, and they'll shove them under your nose attempting to get you to sign.
While you're distracted and with the clipboard shielding your view, they then try to take your belongings.
READ MORE: These are the most popular countries in the world to move to
Forced tipping in restaurants
When you eat out in Paris, you'll automatically be charged a 15 per cent service fee on your bill. For this reason, it's not customary to leave a tip for your waitstaff.
However, in the lead up to the Paris 2024 Games, there have been reports of restaurant staff pressuring diners into leaving big tips, pretending that it's the norm.
Just remember that, like here in Australia, tipping isn't customary, unless you want to reward really outstanding service.
Check your bill before paying. Getty
Taxis
If someone approaches you at an airport or train station claiming to be a taxi driver offering a ride, avoid them. Make sure you're getting into a licensed cab using a meter, or better yet, get an Uber.
Some taxi drivers have been known to prey on unsuspecting tourists by quoting a jacked-up price and demanding riders pay cash. All taxi drivers are, by law, required to have a working credit card machine in their cars, so don't let them convince you other wise.
Pickpockets
Just like many other tourist destinations around the world, pickpockets are rife in Paris. They're especially common in crowded places that draw a lot of foreigners, like the Eiffel Tower, outside the Louvre, the Arc de Triomphe, and on crowded Metro trains.
Remember to remain vigilant when you're in crowds and busy areas. Keep your valuables in your front pocket or inside hard-to-reach zipped places of your bag. A cross-body bag is great for travel as it's harder to snatch. Keep your hand on the zipper while walking through crowds.
Stay vigilant in tourist areas. Getty
Fake websites
Booking tickets for attractions like the Louvre or the Eiffel Tower ahead of time is a great way to save money and time waiting in line.
However, always be sure you're purchasing through the attraction's official website. There are many third-party ticket operators out there that could be scams just trying to get your money.
Bracelets and roses
A common 'scam' is for someone to come up and hand you a rose, or put a bracelet onto your wrist, and then demand you pay a huge fee for it.
Avoid taking the rose or letting them clasp the bracelet - usually if you give them a firm 'no' they'll leave you alone in search of another victim.
Watch every moment, every medal of the Olympic Games Paris 2024 live and free on Channel 9 and 9Now. Plus, every event ad-free and in 4K on Stan Sport.
