10 things NOT to wear in Paris to avoid looking like a tourist!
Are you traveling to Paris soon?
Great, because you probably don’t want to stand out as a tourist.
Parisians are very fashion-forward people, and there are things that you, as a tourist, can wear that will single you out, saying, “This person is definitely a tourist.”
That is why, in this list, I have put together 10 fashion faux pas to avoid that will make you look like a tourist, and I’ve also included what to wear instead.
Avoid: Bright, Flashy Colors
I’m going to be honest, Parisians don’t really wear bright, flashy colors. I’m a Lowlander myself. People from the Lowlands, especially from the Netherlands, love bright colors.
French people in Paris, not so much.
Flashy and bright colors attract unnecessary attention in Paris and are rarely seen on the streets. Parisians actually prefer a more understated and elegant look.
What to wear instead to avoid looking like a tourist:
Instead, go for neutral and more subdued tones such as black, navy, grey, and beige. You can actually combine these colors with a statement piece that can be bright but not too flashy.
One of the reasons people in Paris often opt for neutral colors is because these colors are very versatile and can easily be mixed and matched to create a very chic and sophisticated look.
This also allows the statement piece to take up the attention, like a nice necklace, blazer, pair of shoes, handbag, or even a beautiful Hermès shawl.
💎 The 12 Most Exclusive Hotels in Paris
Let’s plan a trip to Paris
🛏️ Book A Hotel
🎟️ Book Tickets
🤩 Book An Experience
✈️ Travel essentials
Avoid: Graphic T-Shirts and Logos
Another dead giveaway that you are a tourist is wearing t-shirts with large logos or graphics. They will literally know you are a tourist before you even say bonjour.
They can appear very casual and out of place in Paris. I would also avoid t-shirts with large logos of haute couture or expensive luxury brands. If you’re really investing in a piece from those brands, chances are you won’t see a logo if it’s truly expensive.
So, in a fashion capital like Paris, stay away from anything with the logo of a luxury brand plastered on it or you will look like a tourist in France.
What to wear in Paris instead:
Instead, go for simple, solid-colored tops or very subtle patterns. For instance, a classic white blouse or a Breton striped t-shirt, as these are timeless and elegant choices.
🛏️10 Best areas to stay in Paris – and what hotels to book!
Avoid: Athletic Wear
I mean, I get it. Most of the time I’m sitting here in yoga pants and a t-shirt, but if you are going to Paris, I would really warn against wearing gym clothes like leggings, sweatpants, or even running shoes outside of a workout context.
These things really scream “tourist.”
Even I, as a European, can notice American tourists especially by their shorts and white tennis shoes. American men of a certain age tend to dress in a T-shirt, shorts and a pair of white tennis shoes.
Parisians and many big-city Europeans actually reserve athletic wear for the gym only unless they are just lounging at home and running to the supermarket to get something.
What to wear instead:
I would recommend wearing trousers or jeans. If you’re a man, wear some chinos, and then you can pair these with stylish flats, ankle boots, or smart casual sneakers. These pieces can be incredibly comfortable without compromising on style.
☠️ 8 Most dangerous areas in Paris
Avoid: Fanny Packs and Large Backpacks
For the love of all that is holy, please do not wear any fanny packs in Paris. Fanny packs and large backpacks are often associated with tourists, especially those who might not be very well-traveled.
They often use these to protect their money or to carry around maps, cameras, and other travel essentials. They will literally make you stand out like a sore thumb.
What to wear instead to avoid looking like a tourist in Paris:
Instead, I would recommend going for a crossbody bag, a messenger bag, or a small, elegant backpack. These options are both practical and stylish.
❗11 Tourist Traps You Need to Avoid When Traveling to Paris
Avoid: Baseball Caps
I’m going to be honest here, we Europeans do not wear a lot of baseball caps. They are rarely seen on the streets in Europe, especially in Paris, so wearing a baseball cap can really make you stand out as a tourist.
If you do wear a baseball cap, please make sure to take it off when you walk inside. It is considered incredibly rude to wear a cap indoors.
And no – wearing a beret won’t make you more Parisian. On the contrary. You will become the target of every pickpocket in the area!
How not to dress like a tourist:
Instead, I would recommend wearing a Panama hat or perhaps a wide-brimmed sun hat. These hats provide sun protection while also adding a touch of Parisian flair to your outfit.
🧳 10 Essential Items You NEED to Pack for a Trip to Paris
Avoid: White Sneakers
White sneakers have become quite trendy, but I would say that in Paris and in Europe in general, they are often still associated with tourists, especially if the sneakers are incredibly sporty, like tennis shoes.
This will help you avoid looking like a tourist:
Instead, I would recommend wearing stylish, smart casual sneakers or loafers. If you’re a woman, you can choose ballet flats or ankle boots. These options are incredibly comfortable for walking and blend seamlessly with Parisian style.
❌ 10 Things you should NEVER pack for Paris!
Avoid: Heavy Makeup and Bold Accessories
I would also avoid wearing heavy makeup and very bold accessories. Heavy makeup can look really out of place, especially because Parisian style and elegance are very understated.
Bold accessories can be combined with a neutral look as a statement piece, but I would not combine them with anything else that is bold.
Aim for a minimal look with the bold accessory as the statement piece.
What to wear if you don’t want to look like a tourist:
Keep your makeup light and very natural. I would go for brown or pink eyeshadow, and then a nice pink or slightly reddish lip. Choose subtle accessories, like a delicate necklace or a classic watch, if you are wearing anything a bit bolder. You can also add a scarf as a very chic addition to your outfit.
🎨 15 most Famous Pieces of Art in Paris Museums, Louvre and Musée d’Orsay
Avoid: Flip-Flops
I love flip-flops as much as the next person, especially since I lived in Asia for four years, but flip-flops are strictly beachwear in France and are considered very inappropriate in Paris.
I also wouldn’t recommend wearing them when walking around because they offer very little to no support, so by the evening, your feet will hurt a lot.
What to wear instead on a trip to Paris:
Go for a comfortable yet stylish sandal. Go for Espadrilles or loafers.
I’m not sure whether Birkenstocks would be okay.
I think it would depend on the style. In most other European capitals, Birkenstocks would totally be fine, but maybe don’t wear them in Paris if you want to blend in.
⌛ 10 Tourist attractions in Paris that are NOT worth your time!
Avoid: Rain ponchos
Rain is never nice, but please avoid wearing bulky parkas, weird windbreakers, or those plasticky poncho things to protect you against the rain.
They’re not sophisticated, and honestly, only tourists wear them, so stay away from them as much as you can.
What to wear instead in Paris:
Instead, go for a trench coat, a blazer, a stylish little raincoat, or even an umbrella. These pieces are perfect to keep the weather away, while you still look very nice and sophisticated for the streets of Paris.
Avoid: Cargo Shorts
Cargo shorts are super comfortable, and I am the first to admit this because I have quite a few of these mom cargo shorts and love them. However, I wouldn’t wear them in Paris.
They’re often associated with tourists because they’re incredibly practical, but they also look very bulky and not very sophisticated. Parisians commonly do not wear cargo shorts or cargo trousers, so please stay away from them.
What to wear instead:
Especially for men, because it’s mostly men who wear cargo shorts and cargo trousers, I would recommend choosing really nice chinos or linen trousers if it’s summer.
These options are incredibly comfortable and provide a more refined look that aligns more with French culture and the style you would see on the streets in Paris.
This Hidden Island Near Athens Is Greece’s Best-Kept Secret – But Not for Long
Looking for a Greek island escape without the crowds of Santorini or the glitz of Mykonos? Meet Egina (Aegina), the charming island just an hour from Athens that’s finally getting the love it deserves. With its pistachio groves, ancient temples, and seaside tavernas, Egina is the perfect blend of history, flavor, and laid-back island life…
You Won’t Believe These Ancient Sites Are Hiding in One of Crete’s Cutest Towns
Forget everything you thought you knew about Crete. While most travelers head to Heraklion or hit the beaches of Elafonissi, those in the know are turning their attention to Chania—a postcard-perfect town that’s absolutely bursting with ancient secrets. Behind its Venetian harbor and colorful facades, Chania hides some of Greece’s most fascinating archaeological gems. From…
Two African Cities Just Beat Paris and Tokyo for Culture in 2025 – Here’s Why Everyone’s Talking
When people think of the world’s top cultural destinations, cities like Paris, Tokyo, and New York often come to mind. But in 2025, two African cities have stolen the spotlight – and for good reason. Cape Town, South Africa, and Marrakech, Morocco, have both been crowned among the world’s best cultural cities, and their rise…
Ditch the Crowds: 2025’s Hottest Travel Dupes That’ll Save You a Fortune
If you’re tired of elbowing your way through tourist-packed piazzas, queuing for overpriced cocktails, and blowing half your budget on entry tickets, it’s time to embrace a trend that’s gaining serious momentum in 2025: travel dupes. Like the fashion world’s designer knockoffs that look just as good for a fraction of the price, travel dupes…
These 7 Budget Destinations Are Cheaper (and Hotter) Than Ever in 2025
Want to see the world without selling your soul (or your AirPods)? 2025 is your year. With airfare deals, low-cost hotspots, and hidden gems popping up across the map, savvy travellers are swapping overpriced city breaks for affordable adventures that deliver sunshine, culture, and cocktails – without killing your credit score. Here are 7 ridiculously…
You Won’t Believe What This Airport Has Inside – No Wonder It’s Been Crowned World’s Best Again!
If you’ve ever dreaded long layovers or dreaded airport queues, Singapore’s Changi Airport is here to blow your mind – again. In 2025, Changi has reclaimed its title as the World’s Best Airport, and if you’ve been there, you’re probably not surprised. This marks its 13th win from Skytrax, the leading global airport rating organisation,…
Why the Athens Riviera Is the Greek Island Alternative No One’s Talking About (Yet)
If you’re dreaming of Greece but dreading the logistics of island-hopping, you’re not alone. As beautiful as Santorini, Mykonos and Crete are, they come with ferry schedules, steep prices, and heavy crowds. But what if we told you there’s a sun-drenched coastal escape just 30 minutes from central Athens that offers the same turquoise waters,…
This is National Geographic’s Top Destination for 2025
If you’re already planning your 2025 holidays and looking for somewhere a little different, then it’s time to turn your attention to Sarajevo – National Geographic’s top travel destination for the year. Often overlooked in favour of more obvious European hotspots, Sarajevo is finally getting the recognition it deserves, and for good reason. Nestled in…
This is East Asia’s happiest country in 2025
Thinking about your next island escape? Taiwan might not be the first place that comes to mind, but that’s changing fast. According to the 2025 World Happiness Report, Taiwan is officially the happiest country in East Asia—and it’s easy to see why. Ranked 27th globally, Taiwan outranked popular destinations like Singapore, Japan, and South Korea….
Santorini’s Shaky Start to 2025: What Tourists Need to Know
In early 2025, Santorini was hit by a series of earthquakes. Over 20,000 tremors shook the island. Most of them were small. But they worried both locals and visitors. The quakes were not volcanic. They were tectonic. That means they came from the earth’s plates moving, not the volcano. Still, the island took action quickly….
Why These French Destinations Are the Most Romantic in the World!
Ah, France—the country that has made romance its national sport. If you’re on the lookout for the most ravishingly romantic places in France, grab a croissant and settle in. From picturesque hilltop villages to candle-lit castles, let me whisk you away on a romantic escape through 12 of the best places to make your heart…
The 10 Most Breathtaking Beaches in Greece (Locals Don’t Want You to Know #7!)
If you’re dreaming of stunning beaches, golden sand, and crystal-clear waters, then Greece is the place to be. With countless gorgeous stretches of coastline, the Greek islands are home to some of the finest beaches in the world. From secluded coves to lively beach bars, Greece has a little something for everyone. Let’s dive into…
12 Best Christmas Markets in Spain
Spain, with its rich cultural heritage and vibrant cities, transforms into a winter wonderland during the Christmas season. From dazzling lights to traditional crafts, Spanish Christmas markets offer a magical experience filled with festive spirit, artisan products, and delightful treats. Whether you’re seeking unique gifts or simply soaking up the holiday cheer, this guide to…
8 most beautiful Christmas Markets in Belgium
Belgium, with its historic cities, enchanting canals, and festive atmosphere, transforms into a winter wonderland during the holiday season. From Brussels to Bruges, the country hosts some of Europe’s best Christmas markets, offering everything from mulled wine and buttery waffles to hand-crafted ornaments and cozy chalets. Whether you’re planning a trip to Belgium’s Christmas markets…
12 Best Christmas Markets in France to Visit
France is home to some of the most magical Christmas markets in Europe, offering a blend of tradition, festive cheer, and regional specialties. Whether you’re exploring the enchanting Alsace Christmas markets or discovering hidden gems throughout France, these markets are perfect for creating unforgettable holiday memories. Here’s your ultimate guide to the best Christmas markets…
12 Best Christmas Markets in Europe
The festive season is the perfect time to experience the magic of Europe’s Christmas markets. With twinkling lights, towering Christmas trees, and stalls brimming with artisan crafts and delicious treats, these markets promise an unforgettable holiday experience. In this listicle, we’ll explore 12 of the best Christmas markets in Europe, each offering its own unique…
12 Best Christmas Markets in Germany
When it comes to festive cheer, Germany sets the gold standard with its enchanting Christmas markets. Known as the birthplace of the Christmas market tradition, Germany offers some of the best Christmas markets in the world. From the cobblestone streets of medieval towns to the vibrant heart of bustling cities, there’s a German Christmas market…
12 Best Christmas markets in the Netherlands
The festive period in the Netherlands is a magical time, with the best Christmas markets transforming city centres into enchanting winter wonderlands. From twinkling lights to cosy chalets, each Christmas market in the Netherlands offers a unique and unforgettable experience. If you’re planning your Christmas break, these markets are must-visits for their festive spirit, unique…
12 Best Christmas markets in the UK
When it comes to embracing the festive season, there’s no better way than exploring the best Christmas markets in the UK. These incredible markets transform city centers into magical wonderlands, adorned with twinkling lights, wooden chalets, and the aroma of mulled wine wafting through the air. Visitors can expect a delightful mix of festive cheer,…
12 Most Beautiful Hills and Mountains in the UK
The UK is blessed with some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the world, from towering peaks to rolling hills. From the adrenaline rush of rugged ridges to the serene charm of gentle slopes, these locations offer something for everyone. If you’re an avid climber, a casual hiker, or just someone who loves a stunning…
