🥐 10 How Not To Look Like A Tourist In Paris

Planning your dream trip to Paris, but secretly dreading looking like you just stepped off a tour bus?

We totally get it. Nobody wants to be that person.

Good news, bestie! We’ve got the lowdown on blending in like a local, or at least looking like you live there.

1. Ditch the Fanny Pack

• Best For: Keeping your valuables secure, discreetly.
• Vibe: Effortless chic, hands-free.
• Why it works: Parisians opt for style and function, not obvious utility.

Seriously, put away the fanny pack. While practical, it screams “I’m carrying all my euros right here!” to everyone, including pickpockets.

Instead, grab a sleek crossbody bag in a neutral tone like black leather or dark canvas.

Keep it close to your body under your arm or a jacket.

Pro Tip: Look for bags with a zipper closure and an inner pocket for your passport.

2. Embrace Neutral Tones

• Best For: Mixing and matching outfits, looking sophisticated.
• Vibe: Understated elegance, timeless.
• Why it works: Parisians master the art of looking put-together without flashy colors.

Forget the bright, loud colors you might pack for a beach vacation. Paris is all about a muted palette.

Think black, navy, grey, beige, white, and olive green.

These colors look chic and make it super easy to create multiple outfits from fewer pieces.

Pro Tip: A classic trench coat or a well-fitting black blazer instantly elevates any neutral outfit.

3. Walk Like You Own the Place

• Best For: Navigating the city confidently, avoiding obvious confusion.
• Vibe: Purposeful, unhurried, aware.
• Why it works: Locals move with a sense of direction, even if they’re just window shopping.

Stop gawking at every single building with your mouth open. Paris is beautiful, we know, but try to play it cool.

Walk with purpose, even if you’re just wandering. Avoid stopping dead in the middle of a busy sidewalk to consult your map.

Step to the side, check your directions quickly, and then keep moving.

Pro Tip: Plan your route roughly before you leave your accommodation. Save maps offline on your phone so you don’t need constant data.

4. Skip the Tourist Traps

• Best For: Experiencing authentic Parisian life, dodging crowds.
• Vibe: Insider, cultured, relaxed.
• Why it works: Locals frequent lesser-known spots for better quality and atmosphere.

While the Eiffel Tower is a must-see, don’t spend your entire trip at crowded landmarks.

Instead of the Champs-Élysées, explore the boutiques and cafes in Le Marais or Saint-Germain-des-Prés.

Find a smaller, local boulangerie for your morning croissant instead of the first one you see near Notre Dame.

Pro Tip: Ask your hotel concierge or Airbnb host for their favorite neighborhood spots for coffee or a quiet drink. They usually have the best recommendations.

5. Master the Art of the Scarf

• Best For: Adding a touch of elegance, staying warm, blending in.
• Vibe: Effortlessly stylish, versatile.
• Why it works: A scarf is a quintessential Parisian accessory that adds flair and practicality.

Parisians love their scarves, and not just when it’s cold. A lightweight silk or linen scarf can instantly elevate a simple outfit.

Drape it loosely, tie it casually, or wear it as a headscarf on a breezy day.

It’s a subtle touch that makes a huge difference.

Pro Tip: Invest in a good quality scarf in a classic pattern like polka dots or a solid jewel tone. You’ll use it more than you think.

6. Opt for Comfortable, Stylish Shoes

• Best For: Long days of walking, looking put-together.
• Vibe: Practical chic, understated.
• Why it works: You’ll be walking miles, so comfort is key, but style is non-negotiable.

Leave the chunky white sneakers and flip-flops at home. Paris is a walking city, so comfortable shoes are essential, but they also need to look good.

Think chic leather ankle boots, classic ballet flats, or stylish leather sneakers (like Vejas, if you’re feeling fancy).

Your feet will thank you, and you won’t stick out like a sore thumb.

Pro Tip: Break in any new shoes before your trip to avoid blisters. Nothing ruins a day like sore feet.

7. Order Your Coffee Like a Local

• Best For: Enjoying a true Parisian cafe experience, avoiding tourist traps.
• Vibe: Confident, knowledgeable, unhurried.
• Why it works: Knowing the lingo helps you get what you want and shows respect for local customs.

Forget your venti caramel macchiato. In Paris, it’s all about the café noisette (espresso with a dash of milk) or a simple café crème (latte).

Order it, sit down, and savor it. Don’t grab and go like you’re in a rush.

And remember, a “café” is just an espresso.

Pro Tip: Practice saying “Un café, s’il vous plaît” (An espresso, please) and “L’addition, s’il vous plaît” (The check, please) before you go. A little French goes a long way.

8. Keep Your Voice Down

• Best For: Respecting local etiquette, not drawing unwanted attention.
• Vibe: Calm, respectful, discreet.
• Why it works: Parisians tend to speak more softly in public spaces.

Americans, we love to project, but in Paris, it’s best to tone it down a bit.

Whether you’re on the Metro, in a restaurant, or just walking down the street, try to keep your voice at a moderate level.

Loud conversations can be jarring and mark you as an outsider.

Pro Tip: Observe the locals around you. Match their energy and volume when you’re in public settings.

9. Dress Up a Little

• Best For: Fitting in at dinner, looking put-together for any occasion.
• Vibe: Smart casual, effortlessly elegant.
• Why it works: Parisians value presentation, even for casual outings.

While comfort is key, Parisians generally dress a bit more formally than many tourists. Leave the sweatpants and graphic tees for home.

Even for a casual dinner, a nice pair of dark jeans with a blouse or a smart sweater and those stylish ankle boots will do the trick.

You don’t need to be in couture, just look polished.

Pro Tip: Always pack one “dressier” outfit – a simple black dress or tailored trousers with a crisp shirt – for an unexpected fancy dinner.

10. Focus on Experiences, Not Souvenirs

• Best For: Creating genuine memories, avoiding clutter, traveling light.
• Vibe: Authentic, mindful, appreciative.
• Why it works: True Parisian style is about enjoying the moment, not collecting trinkets.

Resist the urge to buy every miniature Eiffel Tower you see. Nothing screams “tourist” like a bag full of cheap souvenirs.

Instead, invest in experiences: a delicious meal, a cooking class, a vintage book from a riverside stall, or a piece of local art.

These memories and unique finds will be far more valuable.

Pro Tip: If you want a keepsake, choose something small and chic, like a beautiful scarf, a unique piece of jewelry from a local designer, or a gourmet food item.

Our Top Recommended Finds

• A Versatile Crossbody Bag: Keep your essentials safe and your hands free while looking effortlessly chic.
• A Classic Neutral Scarf: Instantly elevates any outfit and adds a touch of Parisian flair.
• Comfortable, Stylish Walking Shoes: Essential for exploring the city for hours without sacrificing your look.

Which of these will you try first?

So, there you have it! A few simple tweaks can transform your Parisian adventure from tourist trap to trés chic.

Ready to blend in and truly soak up the magic of the city of lights?