Is France Safe To Travel Alone? 5+ Tips

If you have ever watched Emily in Paris, you have probably already asked: Is France safe to travel alone? France is a beautiful country that draws millions of visitors each year, many of whom have made the trip solo to take in its exquisite range of galleries, museums, catch some sun on the French Riviera or watch the world go by with a glass of something fresh and fruity while visiting Paris safe beneath the Eiffel Tower.

However, safety concerns can be a major factor for those considering solo travel to France. In this blog, we will explore whether it is safe to travel alone in France, especially for solo female travelers, and offer safety tips and common French words to help ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Is France Safe To Travel Alone?

The simple answer is yes, France is safe for a solo trip, with relatively low violent crime rates. However, like any destination, there are certain risks that travelers should be aware of. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and theft, is a concern in tourist areas, especially when visiting a big city like Paris. Tourists are often targeted due to the perception that they carry valuables like cameras, wallets, and smartphones. It’s important to take precautions to avoid becoming a victim of theft, such as keeping valuables close to your body and being aware of your surroundings.

Sexual Harassment

Another concern for solo travelers, and especially solo female travelers, in France is sexual harassment and assault. Reports of sexual harassment and assault have increased in recent years, particularly on public transportation and in nightlife areas. Women and LGBTQ+ travelers may be at higher risk for these incidents. Our advice? It’s important to be aware of what is happening around you and trust your instincts. If you feel uncomfortable or threatened, try to move to a crowded area or seek help from a police officer, bystander, or local.

While the above risks may sound alarming, it’s essential to remember that millions of travelers visit France solo every year without incident. Taking precautions and being aware of your surroundings can help ensure a safe, enjoyable, and thoroughly rewarding first solo trip to France.

Safety Tips For Solo Travellers In France

Be Aware Of Your Surroundings

Always pay attention to your surroundings and avoid walking alone in isolated areas, especially at night. Stick to well-lit, populated areas and avoid locations known for crime.

Keep Your Valuables Safe

Always keep your valuables, such as your passport, wallet, and smartphone, close to your body. Consider carrying a crossbody bag or backpack you can keep in front of you. Avoid carrying large sums of cash and keep important documents in a safe place, such as a hotel safe in your hotel room.

Beware Of Scams

Big cities like Paris and Marseilles have been visited by tourists for hundreds of years, and so thieves have had plenty of time to master their trade. Two of the most popular scams to be aware of when you visit Paris are the ‘gold ring scam,‘ where a person pretends to find a ‘solid gold ring’ and tries to sell it to you, and the ‘string bracelet scam,‘ where someone asks if you would like a friendship bracelet and ties it tightly to your wrist before you have time to answer and then demands payment.

Use Public Transportation Wisely

Public transportation is generally safe in France, but being aware of your surroundings is important. Avoid empty train cars and buses, especially late at night. If you feel uncomfortable, move to a crowded area or seek help from a police officer or fellow passenger. The Paris Metro is generally safe to use as a solo female traveler, but like all metros worldwide, big city transport systems can attract other characters.

Be Cautious In Nightlife Areas

Nightlife areas can be a target for pickpocketing and other crimes. Keep an eye on your belongings and avoid getting too intoxicated, as this can make you an easier target. Enjoy Paris, but do not accept drinks from strangers!

Trust Your Instincts

If something doesn’t feel right, trust your instincts and take action. Move to a crowded area or seek help from a police officer or bystander. Don’t feel embarrassed to ask for help if unsure about a situation.

Learn Some French And A Bit Of French Culture

Knowing some basic French and being aware of the French way of doing things can help navigate the country and communicate with locals. It can also make you less of a target for scams and other crimes. Try downloading a popular language app to take with you.

Do Some Research

Go online and look up the best solo travel destinations. Take some time to research the popular tourist destination you are considering visiting, and read blogs by other solo female travelers who have visited France, as they will have a few top safety tips for traveling solo.

Stay Connected

Let someone know where you’re going and when you expect to return, even if it is just a day trip. Consider always carrying a charged phone with you and keeping important phone numbers, such as your hotel and emergency contacts, easily accessible.

While there are some risks to solo and solo female travel in France, it is generally a safe destination for all visitors. Locals will tell you that traveling solo in France, wherever you go, is generally safe. French women do it all the time, after all. Taking precautions and being aware of your surroundings when visiting France can help ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. As with any destination, using common sense and trusting your instincts is important. With some preparation, you can plan the perfect solo trip and have a memorable and rewarding experience exploring all that this amazing country offers.

Some Useful French Vocabulary To Keep You Safe

Stay Safe By Learning The Local Language With Ling

Staying safe when traveling to France, or any other country, is easier if you know a few words and phrases in the local language. Ling app offers more than 60 languages, including French, with lessons set by local speakers. With the Ling app on your smartphone, you can always talk yourself out of a tricky situation. Why not try the Ling app before booking your trip by clicking on Google Play or App Store?