The essentials at a glance
| Situation | Good to know | Reflex |
|---|---|---|
| Metro by day | very crowded, phone thefts | keep your bag closed in front of you |
| Metro and RER at night | long interchange corridors (Châtelet-Les Halles, Montparnasse) feel uncomfortable | choose a busy carriage or a taxi |
| Harassment | whistles, remarks, insistence | do not stop, say "non, merci", join other people |
| Late-night areas | Gare du Nord, Gare de l'Est, Pigalle late in the evening | go home in a group or by ride-hailing |
Transport and alert
- 3117 is a free number, also reachable by text at 31177, to report an assault or harassment on Île-de-France transport; RATP's "Alerte 3117" app sends staff to you.
- Last-metro times vary: check the RATP website before going out; Noctilien night buses take over.
- If you feel in danger, head for staff, an open shop or a busy carriage.
Clothing, scams and outings
- No outfit is off limits; the vigilance is mostly about bags and phones on terraces.
- Common scams: petition, "free" bracelet, cup game. A firm "no" is enough and you keep walking.
- To meet people safely, a group guided tour such as a food tasting in the Marais is a good start to a stay.
- For the evening, see also safety in Paris at night. Travel health insurance covers the unexpected.
FAQ
Is it safe to take the metro alone at night?
For most journeys yes, with care at big interchanges; if in doubt, take a taxi or ride-hail.
Which number do I call for harassment?
3117 on Île-de-France transport, 17 for police, 112 for any emergency.
Which areas for a first solo trip?
The Marais, the Latin Quarter, Saint-Germain and Montmartre by day.
The Paris Authority editorial team
