I grew up in Paris. Here are 12 of the biggest mistakes I see tourists make when they visit.

• I grew up in Paris and often see tourists miss out on my favorite parts of the city.
• The famous landmarks are worth visiting, but so are the French capital’s quieter neighborhoods.
• I wish more tourists embraced café culture and were open to trying authentic French dishes.

Don’t expect Parisian cafés to be like your local coffee shop — they’re about more than getting a caffeine fix.

A trip to Paris isn’t complete without a stop at the local boulangerie.

Many tourists don’t know that the Seine is one of the city’s most vibrant gathering spots in the summer.

Arrive in the morning or early afternoon to ensure that you have plenty of time to enjoy the grounds.

If you want to admire classic French architecture, head to the Luxembourg Gardens and lounge on the grass or by the fountain. You can also visit the Palais-Royal garden after exploring the Louvre, which is just steps away.

This story was originally published on August 17, 2022, and most recently updated on October 15, 2026.