We Asked 90 Women About Traveling to Paris Alone

A few months ago we asked the women in our Facebook group what worries them about coming to Paris on their own. Hardly anyone asked whether Paris was dangerous. Instead, they told us what they had already given up: the Eiffel Tower sparkling at night, late concerts, the evenings. In this video on solo female travel in Paris, Colleen and Antoine answer those concerns honestly, for women traveling alone and for the friends, partners and families who worry about them.

Arriving and choosing where to stay

Charles de Gaulle can be confusing, so slow down and look for the English under the French signs. Colleen always books a driver so someone is waiting with a sign, and a meet-and-greet service is where we would spend the money if your budget allows. For hotels, consider a single room, stay close to a good metro line, and look for a place with a 24-hour reception and a key needed after hours. You can also ask the front desk not to announce your room number out loud.

Getting around at night

• Paris is a safe city overall. Pickpocketing is the most likely issue, so use the same common sense you would at home.
• Many women take the metro out and an Uber or G7 taxi back at night. G7 taxis can use the bus lanes.
• Download the Bonjour RATP app, Google Maps, Uber, G7, TheFork (which lets you book a table for one), Google Translate, SOS Médecins and the State Department’s STEP program before you fly.
• If a walking route feels wrong, stick to the main street and let your map reroute you.

Dining alone, unwanted attention and getting sick

Arrive when a restaurant opens and do not be shy about asking for the table you want. If a man will not leave you alone, a firm “non” is enough and is not considered rude in France, and passers-by will help. For illness, start at the pharmacy, then the hotel front desk. Useful phrases include “j’ai besoin d’un médecin” (I need a doctor) and “c’est urgent” (it is urgent).

Our Solo Paris Travel Guide puts all of this in one place, and our Paris Hotel Guide sorts our favorite hotels by neighborhood. For a stress-free arrival, book a private airport transfer, and plan the rest of your trip with our Paris Guide Bundle.