Avoiding the Worst Neighborhoods in Paris: Unsafe Areas to Avoid
So you are all ready for your trip to Paris and now researching about the Areas to avoid in Paris and you want to know which are the Worst Neighborhoods in Paris?
I got you covered here, after visiting Paris more than four times and staying there to explore in depth of Paris, I think I can share with you a fair share of my experience here.
Paris is known for its romantic ambiance, beautiful architecture, and rich cultural heritage. However, like any major city, it also has areas that may pose safety concerns for residents and tourists.
It’s essential to be aware of the unsafe neighborhoods in Paris to ensure a secure and enjoyable visit to the City of Light.
So let us dive in now!
Where are the unsafe areas to avoid in Paris?
Paris is divided into neighborhoods called arrondissements, each with its own unique character. When it comes to identifying the dangerous areas in Paris, the 18th and 19th arrondissements should be approached with caution. These districts have garnered a reputation for higher crime rates and safety concerns.
Les Halles, located in the 1st arrondissement, is another area where visitors should exercise vigilance due to reported crime incidents. Additionally, it’s advisable to check the safety of the 10th arrondissement, especially when navigating the area at night.
Some more of them are mentioned below
Châtelet-Les Halles: This area, particularly around the Châtelet-Les Halles metro station, is known for pickpocketing and occasional drug-related activities. It can be crowded, especially during rush hours, so keep an eye on your belongings and be cautious of your surroundings.
Gare du Nord: As one of the busiest train stations in Paris, Gare du Nord can attract pickpockets and scammers. Stay alert when navigating through the station, especially in crowded areas.
Barbès-Rochechouart: Located in the 18th arrondissement, Barbès-Rochechouart is known for its street markets and diverse population. While it is generally safe during the day, it is advisable to exercise caution in the evening or at night, as there have been reports of petty crimes.
Stalingrad: This area, situated around the Stalingrad metro station, has experienced occasional instances of drug trafficking and street crime. It is recommended to be vigilant when passing through this neighborhood, especially during late hours.
Porte de Clignancourt: Another area in the 18th arrondissement, Porte de Clignancourt is known for its flea market (Marché aux Puces). While the market itself is safe, be cautious of your belongings and avoid dark and deserted streets in the vicinity.
Arrondissements to avoid in Paris
When it comes to Paris, there are a few arrondissements that some sources suggest taking extra caution in or avoiding, particularly in certain areas within them. Here are some insights based on various perspectives:
- 18th Arrondissement (Montmartre): While Montmartre is a popular and charming neighborhood, especially around the Sacré-Cœur Basilica, some parts of the 18th arrondissement, particularly around the metro station Barbes-Rochechouart, are mentioned as areas where tourists may encounter issues like pickpocketing or aggressive vendors.
- 10th Arrondissement: As mentioned earlier, while the 10th arrondissement is generally safe, areas around Gare du Nord might require extra caution, especially at night.
- 19th Arrondissement: Some sources suggest that certain parts of the 19th arrondissement, like near the Stalingrad metro station, may have higher crime rates and can be less safe, particularly after dark.
- 20th Arrondissement: Similar to the 19th arrondissement, there are mentions of specific areas within the 20th arrondissement, such as around the Porte de Bagnolet metro station, where travelers may want to exercise increased vigilance.
How to stay safe in Paris neighborhoods?
One way to stay safe in Paris is by choosing a suburb that is known for its safety and lower crime rates. Suburbs like Neuilly-sur-Seine and Vincennes offer a peaceful environment, making them ideal places to stay while still having easy access to the attractions of Paris.
Navigating the city using a map can help travelers identify and avoid dangerous areas. It’s also beneficial for tourists and locals to discover the safer parts of the city, ensuring a worry-free exploration of Paris.
To stay safe in Paris neighborhoods, here are some tips:
Be aware of your surroundings: Pay attention to the people and activities happening around you. Stay alert and trust your instincts if something feels off.
Stay in well-lit and populated areas: Stick to busy streets and avoid walking alone in isolated or poorly lit areas, especially at night.
Secure your belongings: Keep your personal belongings, such as bags, wallets, and phones, secure and within sight at all times. Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded places, like tourist attractions or public transportation.
Use reputable transportation: When using public transportation, be cautious of your belongings and avoid displaying expensive items. It’s also recommended to use licensed taxis or transportation services.
Avoid scams: Be wary of individuals who approach you with suspicious offers or requests for money. Common scams in tourist areas include petitions, friendship bracelets, and distraction techniques.
Research the neighborhood: Before visiting a neighborhood, research its safety reputation and any specific precautions recommended by local authorities or travel advisories.
Respect local customs and laws: Familiarize yourself with the local customs and laws to avoid unintentionally offending others or getting into legal trouble.
Use secure accommodations: Choose reputable hotels or accommodations with good security measures. Keep your room locked and use the hotel safe for valuables.
Stay connected: Carry a fully charged mobile phone with emergency numbers saved. Share your itinerary with someone trustworthy and keep them updated on your whereabouts.
Trust official sources: In case of emergencies or safety concerns, rely on official sources such as local authorities, embassy or consulate websites, or reliable news sources for information and guidance.
What are the 5 worst neighborhoods in Paris to avoid?
Exploring the dangerous neighborhoods within the 18th arrondissement should be approached with caution. Visitors should also find out which specific areas to avoid in Paris to have a safe and pleasant trip. Understanding the risks of walking in certain parts of the city is crucial for personal safety.
When it comes to neighborhoods in Paris that are considered less safe or best to avoid, some sources have identified specific areas that travelers might want to be cautious about. However, it’s important to remember that Paris is a major metropolitan city, and safety can vary block by block and change over time. Here are some areas that have been mentioned:
Château Rouge: This area is often cited due to issues with petty crime and a bustling street market that can attract pickpockets .
Porte de Clignancourt: Known for the famous flea market, this area can also be a magnet for those looking to take advantage of distracted tourists .
Gare du Nord / Gare de l’Est: These major train stations are transit hubs where travelers should be mindful of their belongings due to the high volume of people.
La Chapelle: Located in the 18th arrondissement, this neighborhood has had a reputation for street crime.
Stalingrad and Jaures: Areas around these metro stations can feel unsafe at night due to loitering and occasional aggressive behavior].
Barbès-Rochechouart: This area is known for its diverse population but has been associated with higher crime rates .
It’s worth noting that many Parisians live and work in these neighborhoods without issue, and many travelers visit without encountering any problems. The perception of safety can be highly subjective and influenced by personal experiences and biases.
Which districts of Paris should be avoided?
When recognizing the unsafe areas of the 10th arrondissement and understanding the impact of crime in the 19th arrondissement, visitors can make informed decisions about where to go and where to avoid. It’s essential to discover the dangerous parts of the city to ensure a secure visit to Paris.
How to identify safe and dangerous neighborhoods in Paris?
Understanding the crime rate in different parts of the city is pivotal to identifying safe and dangerous neighborhoods. Recognizing the signs of a dangerous neighborhood in Paris can help visitors stay away from potentially unsafe areas. By finding safe areas in Paris, tourists can ensure a pleasant and secure visit to the renowned city.
Conclusion: Is Paris Safe to Visit?
Okay if you are wondering Is Paris Safe or not? Well if you just talk about the crime rate in Paris then it has been increasing for the past 3 years. Paris city is generally one of the top visited places in Europe however you have to make sure to avoid the area mentioned in my post.
Also, it is worth noting that there are pickpockets in touristy areas so you have to be cautious, I have also written a guide around Pickpockets in Europe because this is something quite common and Paris is one city where it happens a lot.
That was all about the Worst Neighborhood in Paris I hope you have made the list of dangerous places in Paris and you are all ready for planning a trip to Paris.
Happy Vacation
Cheers,
Sankalp
FAQs
Q: What are the most dangerous neighborhoods to avoid in Paris?
A: The 18th and 19th arrondissements, Les Halles, and the 10th arrondissement are considered the most unsafe areas to avoid in Paris.
Q: Is it safe to stay in Paris?
A: Yes, Paris is generally a safe city for tourists, but it’s important to be aware of the areas to avoid and stay vigilant at night.
Q: What should I know about crime rate in Paris?
A: The crime rate in certain neighborhoods of Paris, particularly in the 18th and 19th arrondissements, is higher compared to other areas in the city.
Q: How can I avoid dangerous areas of Paris when planning a trip?
A: It’s recommended to research the neighborhoods to avoid and to stay in well-known and tourist-friendly areas of Paris.
Q: What are the suburbs of Paris that are considered unsafe?
A: Certain suburbs like Belleville and parts of the 18th and 19th districts are known to be unsafe areas in Paris and should be avoided, especially at night.
Q: Are there specific places or parts in Paris that are considered as ghettos?
A: Yes, some areas in the 18th and 19th arrondissements are often referred to as ghettos due to higher crime rates and safety concerns.
Q: Is it safe to visit the heart of Paris as a tourist?
A: Yes, the central and popular tourist areas of Paris are generally safe, but it’s advisable to avoid walking alone in certain areas, especially at night.
Q: How can I ensure a safe experience while using the Paris metro?
A: Stay cautious and alert when using the Paris metro, especially in the evening, and be mindful of your belongings to ensure a safe travel experience.
Q: Which areas or zones should be definitely avoided when in Paris?
A: It’s advisable to definitely avoid certain areas in the 18th and 19th arrondissements, as well as Les Halles and the 10th arrondissement, to ensure personal safety.
Q: What should I be mindful of to avoid unsafe places in Paris?
A: To avoid unsafe areas of Paris, it’s important to be aware of the neighborhoods to avoid, stay informed about local safety tips, and avoid walking alone in poorly lit areas.
