France : Safety by City
France, home to the busiest country for tourism and the most popular museum in the world, draws in 100 million visitors each year.
With a strategic location in Western Europe, the country has several watery borders, including the Atlantic Ocean, the Mediterranean Sea, and the English Channel.
Its history spans Roman rule, medieval dynasties, the French Revolution, and global influence through art, philosophy, and politics.
It’s one of the most culturally significant countries in the world, and the massive crowds each summer reflect that.
France’s regions offer vastly different experiences.
The north, including Normandy and Brittany, is rich in medieval history, with D-Day beaches, Mont Saint-Michel, and rugged coastal landscapes.
The east, featuring Alsace, Burgundy, and the Jura, blends French and German heritage, known for its wine, timber-framed villages, and rolling countryside.
In the south, Provence, the French Riviera, and Occitanie boast sun-soaked vineyards, Roman ruins, and glamorous Mediterranean beaches.
Heading to the southwest, including Nouvelle-Aquitaine, you’ll find one of the best surfing spots, lots of Basque culture, and plenty of Bordeaux wines to sample.
The Alps and Pyrenees in the southeast attract skiers, hikers, and nature lovers, with breathtaking mountain scenery and traditional alpine villages.
The west, with Loire Valley châteaux, Brittany’s rugged coast, and Atlantic surfing beaches, offers a mix of heritage and outdoor adventure.
Yet, with all the excellent options, there are some serious safety concerns we need to discuss before you visit France or choose your regions to explore.
Warnings & Dangers in France
OVERALL RISK: MEDIUM
This is a medium risk due to the country's advisory warning about tourism, which is at the highest level possible. That said, security measures are high, and violent crime against tourists is rare.
TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: LOW
Public transport is efficient but a hotspot for pickpocketing, especially in Paris and Marseille. Unlicensed taxis overcharge unsuspecting tourists, so always use G7, Bolt, or Uber. Train and metro strikes can happen unexpectedly, so check schedules in advance.
PICKPOCKETS RISK: LOW
Crowded tourist areas, metros, and train stations are prime spots for pickpockets. Groups often work together to distract and steal. Avoid carrying valuables in easy-to-reach places, use crossbody bags, and be cautious around street performers or people asking for signatures.
NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: LOW
France rarely experiences major natural disasters, but flooding, wildfires (especially in the south), and winter avalanches in the Alps can occur.
MUGGING RISK: LOW
While the risk is low, muggings can occur, especially at night in less crowded areas of Paris, Marseille, and Nice. Avoid walking alone in poorly lit areas, and don’t flash valuables. If confronted, don’t resist—handing over belongings is safer.
TERRORISM RISK: HIGH
France has been a target for terrorist attacks in the past, leading to strict security measures. You'll see this with increased police activity and military presence, especially in busy tourist spots. I will give this a high risk since even the French government has listed the risk as an "attack emergency".
SCAMS RISK: LOW
Common scams include fake petitions, friendship bracelet scams near Sacré-Cœur, and fake taxi drivers. Be wary of overly friendly strangers, avoid accepting “gifts,” and double-check restaurant and bar bills for unexpected charges. ATMs inside banks are safer than street machines. You can lower the risk by being aware of the most recent scams, which are listed in your home country's France travel advisory.
WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW
France is safe for solo female travelers, but street harassment can be an issue, especially in Paris and Marseille. Catcalling is illegal, but enforcement varies. Avoid doing extreme activities, like kitesurfing or skiing alone.
TAP WATER RISK: LOW
Tap water is safe to drink across France, including in Paris. Some older buildings may have lead pipes, so let the water run briefly before drinking. In rural areas, especially near farms, bottled water may be a better option.
Safest Places to Visit in France
France’s Tourism Board put together a well-rounded website for potential visitors.
The address is www.france.fr. Look at the Practical Information section for some of the basic travel guidance.
To better align with the tourism site, I’ll break down the major things to do in safe areas by the top 10 French cities.
Bordeaux
Bordeaux is a paradise for wine lovers, with the Cité du Vin, an immersive museum dedicated to the world of wine, offering tastings and exhibits on viticulture’s global impact.
The Place de la Bourse, with its famous Miroir d’Eau, reflects Bordeaux’s stunning 18th-century architecture, making it one of the most photographed spots in France.
Montpellier
Montpellier epitomizes history with Mediterranean flair, with the grand Place de la Comédie at its heart, surrounded by elegant mansions and lively cafés.
The Musée Fabre houses a world-class collection of European art, featuring works by Rubens, Delacroix, and Courbet, making it a must-visit for culture lovers.
Strasbourg
Famous for its fairytale-like Petite France district, Strasbourg is where half-timbered houses line scenic canals, giving the city a uniquely Alsatian charm.
The towering Strasbourg Cathedral, once the world’s tallest building, is a Gothic masterpiece with an intricate astronomical clock and breathtaking views from its spire.
Lille
Lille impresses visitors with its Flemish influence, best seen in the Grand Place, where ornate facades and the 17th-century Vieille Bourse create a stunning city center.
The Palais des Beaux-Arts de Lille, second only to the Louvre in size, houses masterpieces by Rembrandt, Rubens, and Van Dyck.
Nantes
Nantes is home to the whimsical Machines de l’Île, where visitors can ride a giant mechanical elephant and explore fantastical steampunk-inspired creations.
The Château des Ducs de Bretagne, a medieval fortress with a fascinating museum, tells the story of the city’s maritime and industrial past.
Toulouse
Toulouse, nicknamed “La Ville Rose” for its pink-hued brick buildings, boasts the Capitole de Toulouse, a grand neoclassical city hall and theater in the heart of the city.
The Cité de l’Espace is a must-see for space enthusiasts, offering interactive exhibits and life-sized space shuttle replicas.
Lyon
As a UNESCO-listed city, Lyon is world-renowned for its traboules, which are secret passageways once used by silk merchants.
The Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière, perched on a hill, rewards visitors with stunning panoramic views of Lyon and intricate mosaics inside.
Nice
Nice captures the essence of the French Riviera, with the Promenade des Anglais offering a scenic seaside stroll lined with palm trees and Belle Époque architecture.
The Colline du Château, a historic hilltop park, provides breathtaking views over the azure waters of the Baie des Anges.
Marseille
Marseille is a gateway to the Mediterranean, anchored by the historic Vieux-Port, where fresh seafood markets and colorful boats create a lively atmosphere.
The Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde, towering over the city, is both a religious site and an unbeatable viewpoint over the coastline.
Paris
Last but certainly not least, Paris boasts the Eiffel Tower, standing as an enduring symbol of France and offering unmatched city views from its top.
The Louvre Museum, home to the Mona Lisa and countless artistic treasures, solidifies Paris as one of the world’s greatest cultural capitals.
Keep reading to find out why I listed this location last.
Places to Avoid in France
When researching places to avoid in France closer to your visit, I highly recommend reading the Canadian advisory.
Time and time again in my investigation, Canada’s information is in-depth, transparent, and easy to understand.
While there’s no place “too dangerous to visit” in France, you’re not going to like what I’m going to say next.
Many of the top tourist spots, like The Louvre, are overcrowded.
In addition to a lot of people, there is also a lot of security and limited access mixed with rising fees to see top destinations.
The best shoulder seasons to visit France—when crowds are smaller, prices are lower, and the weather is still pleasant—are mid-March to mid-June (spring) and mid-September to early November (fall).
For those wanting to avoid overtourism, it’s best to skip July and August, especially in hotspots like Paris, the Côte d’Azur, and Mont Saint-Michel.
You always want to avoid any demonstrations, strikes, or large festivals if you can.
The mix of increased security and the potential to be a terrorist target isn’t worth the risk.
Avoid letting your guard down on the Paris metro, Île-de-France regional express network (RER) lines, and international rail routes such as Paris-Brussels-Amsterdam and Paris-London.
These are all hot spots for pickpockets and purse snatchers.
Safety Tips for Traveling to France
- France has two primary police forces: the Police Nationale (urban areas) and the Gendarmerie Nationale (rural areas). Dial 112 for emergencies, 17 for police, and 15 for medical assistance. In Paris, tourist police are available at major attractions to help visitors.
- The FR-Alert system sends emergency notifications to mobile phones in case of terrorist threats, natural disasters, or major accidents. Alerts appear automatically, but travelers can check local updates through the French government’s Vigicrues (flooding) and Météo-France (weather) websites.
- No special vaccines are required beyond standard ones like measles, hepatitis A/B, and tetanus. Tick-borne encephalitis is a concern in forested regions. Mosquitoes can spread the West Nile virus, so insect repellent is recommended in summer, especially in southern France.
- France’s 2017 anti-terrorism law allows authorities to restrict movement, enforce identity checks, and establish security zones in response to potential threats. This means certain areas, including tourist sites, may have controlled entry, bag searches, and heightened police presence.
- Operation Sentinelle deploys armed soldiers in high-risk areas, including train stations, airports, and landmarks, to prevent attacks. The presence of uniformed military personnel is normal and part of France’s counterterrorism efforts—do not be alarmed.
- Most Paris Metro stations lack elevators and are difficult for travelers with mobility challenges. However, buses and trams have accessible platforms and taxis with wheelchair accommodation are available. The RER suburban trains have some accessible stations, especially those serving airports and major hubs.
- Visitors can drive in France with a valid foreign license for up to one year. Non-EU licenses must be accompanied by an International Driving Permit (IDP).
- Before hiking or skiing in the Alps, Pyrenees, or Jura, check avalanche and weather reports at ANENA or local ski stations. Snowfall and rapid weather changes can make trails hazardous.
- Demonstrations are common in France, often disrupting public transport, airports, and roads. Protests can turn violent, so avoid gathering crowds and check strike schedules at cestlagreve.fr.
- The legal drinking age is 18, and public intoxication is frowned upon. Open containers of alcohol in public areas are restricted in certain cities, especially near tourist sites at night. There is zero tolerance for drunk driving in France, and that includes mopeds and bicycles.
So... How Safe Is France Really?
The governments of the United States, Canada, and Australia put France at an elevated risk.
That means it’s Level 2 of a four-tiered system, with four being the highest.
The headline from the U.S. is “Exercise increased caution in France due to terrorism and civil unrest.”
Canada states, “Exercise a high degree of caution in France due to the elevated threat of terrorism.”
Australia’s similar message is “Exercise a high degree of caution in France due to the threat of terrorism.”
To get a greater understanding of the terrorism threat level, visit the website of the General Secretariat for Defense and National Security (SGDSN) at www.sgdsn.gouv.fr/vigipirate.
As of January 15, 2025, that threat level is at “attack emergency” nationwide.
Plus, tourist overcrowding is a problem in many popular areas, from the Louvre to the French Riviera.
The problem is so widespread it has even earned a catchphrase—tourismphobia.
When you factor in the 100 million or so tourists annually and the strict security measures due to terrorism concerns, the safety aspect might also run a close second to the comfort level.
For example, the Louvre is designed to accommodate four million people.
However, nearly nine million people visit annually.
Even with a renovation to the tune of $800 million, the situation will get worse before it gets better since that project won’t be completed until 2031.
Then, factor in that crowds will be considered potential terrorism targets, which could mean more searches and seizures, closures, or limited access to the places people want to see.
If you’re comfortable with the terrorism risk, since it’s widely a concern in many popular countries, you’re encouraged to visit more of the off-the-beaten-path locations to avoid overcrowding.
How Does France Compare?
| Country | Safety Index |
|---|---|
| France | 64 |
| Morocco | 54 |
| Switzerland | 89 |
| South Korea | 82 |
| Oman | 76 |
| Canada | 88 |
| Estonia | 82 |
| Albania | 75 |
| Czech Republic | 88 |
Useful Information
Visas
U.S. and most EU travelers can visit France visa-free for up to 90 days within 180 days. Your passport must be valid for at least three months beyond your departure. Longer stays require a visa, and entry rules may vary for non-EU travelers.
Currency
France uses the euro (€). Credit cards are widely accepted, but having cash is useful in smaller towns, markets, and for tipping. ATMs are common but check for foreign transaction fees. Many businesses require chip-and-PIN cards, so a backup payment method is wise.
Weather
France has diverse climates. Paris and northern areas see cool winters and mild summers, while the south enjoys Mediterranean warmth. Mountain regions like the Alps get heavy snowfall. Spring and fall are ideal for mild weather, fewer crowds, and lower prices.
Airports
Charles de Gaulle (CDG) in Paris is France’s main international hub, while Orly (ORY) serves regional and European flights. Other major airports include Nice (NCE), Lyon (LYS), and Marseille (MRS).
Travel Insurance
We recommend travel insurance with a minimum plan for emergency evacuation. Most policies will also cover theft, cancelation, and delays. If you're skiing, hiking, or renting a car, check for activity-specific coverage. EU visitors can use their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC).
France Weather Averages (Temperatures)
Average High/Low Temperature
| Temperature / Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| High °C | 5 | 6 | 12 | 16 | 20 | 23 | 25 | 24 | 21 | 16 | 10 | 6 |
| Low °C | 1 | 2 | 5 | 7 | 11 | 14 | 16 | 15 | 12 | 8 | 4 | 2 |
| High °F | 41 | 43 | 54 | 61 | 68 | 73 | 77 | 75 | 70 | 61 | 50 | 43 |
| Low °F | 34 | 36 | 41 | 45 | 52 | 57 | 61 | 59 | 54 | 46 | 39 | 36 |
France - Safety by City
| City | Safety Index |
|---|---|
| Bordeaux | 63 |
| Le Havre | 63 |
| Lille | 56 |
| Lyon | 70 |
| Marseille | 59 |
| Martinique | 71 |
| Montpellier | 48 |
| Nantes | 56 |
| Nice | 75 |
| Nimes | 65 |
| Paris | 68 |
| Reims | 68 |
| Rennes | 65 |
| Strasbourg | 74 |
| Toulon | 64 |
| Toulouse | 57 |
Safe in Paris
Much safer here than USA because police aren’t likely to kill citizens There are fewer incidents of white terrorism. I am living in Central Paris in a ground floor studio and I feel very secure.
Frances Charteris – you must be watching too much liberal left american tv from the confines and safety of your studio apartment. The likelihood of being killed by police is high only if you are trying to kill them or another human being. It would be considered a natural consequence for your actions.
Haha “white terrorism”. Blacks commit crime disproportionately to their percent of the population. You sound like a liberal suffering from white guilt.
Ignorance
**** ****, you have no idea, so don’t make a statement like that if you have no clue what you’re talking about, Frenchy.
France is very safe
I’ve been going to France since I was 8. Far less dangerous than the USA with its endemic gun crime and poverty. Get over yourselves.
Europe is safe
Anywhere I’ve been in Europe, and I’ve been to a lot of places, never had any problems. Outside Europe you are more likely to have problems
Black and North africans are the only one that you may pay attention for your safety.
Around ethnic french and europeans…. well it is very civilized.
It is not about being racist, you just have to see reality for what it is.
Good country,Defecate language
THATS RACIIIIIIIIST
**** you. I’m north African and I visited this country many times and I never had any intention to harm anyone. Let us enjoy the country without making us look like terrorists for god’s sake
Wow your are ready
In general most the problems are caused by new illegal immigrants, this in most of Europe. Not because of race but because of the culture of their countries of origin and because of poverty. Hopefully in a few years/decades they get integrated too and they’ll become normal civil people
France is good
France is safe i have been many times and had no problems except it is quite hard to find a toilet if you don’t speak French
There’s a hack for that:
Go to any cafe, stand at the bar, order a coffee (1.50€), and ask to use the restroom. (But don’t actually drink the coffee, as in France they usually use bitter, robusta coffee.)
Not safe for a woman by herself, especially at night. As soon as you get there you will know what kind of guys you should avoid at all times. They stare at you, some will even approach. Just ignore and make sure to stay around the native french instead.
thats interesting because i notice men not staring as much as in the US. It felt better there.
Was pushed on the escalator of the louve whilst heavily pregnant as a distraction technique so a pickpockets could take my phone. Police were useless and couldn’t care less.
Dog poo seems to be a big problem in paris. Been three times, wont be returning.
Well as It is said, Paris is not France. Go to the Loire Valley, French Alps, Provence or Alsace instead, it’s much safer, and people are more welcoming.
Stick to tourist attractions in cities
“Paris is not France.”
Very good point, as I know the same can be said for the people of London mostly not being English.
Paris ...
Native French are fine as to be expected and were actually very polite and helpful despite the stereotype. Just be respectful and understand you are not at Disney World, this is a real working city. However, there aren’t many native French around. You will be accosted by north africans and eastern europe immigrants that will try to scam and pick pocket at every landmark. There was a group of them hanging around the eiffel tower shining lasers in the eyes of tourists. Police won’t do a thing about it as they spend their time looking for AK toting terrorists. Only been to Paris but want to see other areas of the country, not sure I will ever go back to Paris.
Not that great
Im going to be honest, The capital (Paris) sucks. Ive lived there for more than a decade now, ive gone to the rich districts and the poor districts and everything in between. Dont get me wrong, Paris is a treasure of cultural history but its habitant make it a crappy place. Im POC (mostly on the asian side) and I have to warn you about immigrants, be careful around them, you have to differentiate between the french pocs (the ones whove been working all their lives here) and the recent ones whove come here in the past 5 years or so.
They will scam you, beat you to get anything worth on you, and steal from you. Women please do not go outside at night ALONE it is not safe. There is a lot of rape and sexual aggression and many many verbal aggressions too. Cat Calling is a huge issue and minors will get it too so dont let your teens out of your sight. What else… Paris is pretty dirty depending on where you go. Its overly expensive too. I dont want to end this with a negative note so ill just tell you all that theres good and bad ppl everywhere! (also always put your bags/backpacks on the front and keep an eye on them and your phones. Most likely places to get robbed is in metro. Be wary of poorly clothed ppl and if they smell bad.) I hope youll have a better stay. And Good Luck!
French woman born and raised in Paris. Do believe the reports you see on Youtube. Paris has become dirty, smelly, and above all, dangerous if you are not 100 of the time aware of your surroundings. The northern parts of Paris (18th district) is rife with drugs, violence, weapons. Last week, May 2021, 2 rapes in broad daylight. And Anne Hidalgo can sue and sue again, the Paris northern suburb is a no-go zone. If you look or behave like a tourist, do not go to this 93 area. Tourist areas are full of individuals who will do anything to get your money: and I mean ANYTHING. Go to official exchange stores to get euros, dont do it on the street, no matter the temptation. Do not take lots of money out, just coins if you can prepare in advance. Generally speaking, always be aware. And yes, most crime comes from North Africans and Blacks. Sorry to say, but FACTS CANNOT BE RACIST. One last suggestion: Dont spend too much time in Paris. Do Versailles, Eiffel, Louvre, etc and then head to Chantilly, and to the Loire Chateaux. Waaaayyy more beautiful and less touristy.
Stop confusing Paris and France
You guys talk about France like it’s all about Paris. Stop it for god sake, Paris is just a tiny portion of what France can offer. What you are talking about (scams, pickpokets) all those don’t apply to all parts of France. South of France, Provence, French Riviera, Loire Valley, Normandy, French Alps… All are nothing to do with Paris and its own problems.
How the hell the risk of pickpockets and scam could high in Loire Valley or in a village of Provence ? Nonsense.
Stop confusing Paris and France !
Pick better locations, people
If we’re being honest there’s no way France could be rated lower than 4 starts. Marseille and Paris are just two cities, you can’t rank a whole country based on them. I’ve spent a dreamy month In Provence with my fiance, it was just like in those cheesy romance movies; winery tours, great food and sunny days. No scams, no thiefs, no car robberies. If you visit extra populated cities that attract a lot of tourists you are bound to run into several bad apples.
France is an amazing country
I find it rather unfair to rate a whole country based on just one experience, let alone after you’ve visited Paris. While Paris will always have its special place in my heart since this is where we spent our honeymoon, the current city has very little in common with the vibrant and cozy city we fell in love with.
This rant aside, France is a huge country with cities, especially in the rural area, that will make you want to move here when you retire or even before that, if you’re crazy enough.
You have the classics, just like @southernerfrench said, South of France, Provence, French Riviera, Loire Valley, Normandy, French Alps, which are huge tourist destinations but a far cry from Paris.
Then there’s less popular aka crowded destinations like Gorges du Verdon. When we got there I couldn’t believe my eyes, the view and the water were amazing. No sign of petty theft, no beggars, no homeless people.
Avignon is a city full of history, packed with museums. Saint Tropez is known for its nightlife and busy atmosphere. Safe, but you need to mind your drinking, don’t let it out of your sight. These are only the cities I’ve visited but have a ton more on my list.
It’s fair to say that Paris is not as glamorous as it once was but as a country, France has a lot more to offer. Personally, I kind of tend to avoid popular, overcrowded cities if I want to explore more.
Never have I felt threatened, felt the need to double check my phone or bag while visiting the places above. If we’re being honest even Paris has hidden gems but if you’re googling for cool things to do in Paris chances are you won’t stumble upon them.
Do your research right and you won’t be disappointed!
I have been to France many times and have never had any negative experiences, not even in Paris. I grew up in a large city, so cities like Paris don’t intimidate me; in fact, I always feel very at home there, and I always found the native French people living there very civil. My favourite places in France are the Occitanie region, Avignon and Arles.
France scores a 64, yet the US is 68?? On its face, everyone knows that’s ludicrous.
I love my country, but when I go back home to the States, I need to be MUCH more vigilant and careful about who I might offend or get into a confrontation with while driving. (Never mind the near-daily mass shootings.)
By contrast, I’ve been living here in France for 20 years and have visited most of the cities (day and night), and have never felt threatened or witnessed any crime apart from petty theft.
That said, obviously northern Paris suburbs, Marseille, and a few other big city suburbs are exceptions.
"Terrorism risk" is not high
Come on, writing “TERRORISM RISK: HIGH”, just like for Yemen and Afghanistan, is ridiculous. Pickpockets, scams and traffic accidents much bigger concerns than terrorism.
Most of the cities are okeish, but every one of them have shady areas