8 Mistakes Tourists Make in Paris (and How to Avoid Them)

2. Visiting only the major tourist spots

The Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, and Notre-Dame are must-sees, but sticking only to these big-name spots often means missing out on the true essence of Paris. The city's charm is often found in its lesser-known neighborhoods, quaint cafés, and hidden gardens. For example, the Rue des Martyrs in the 9th arrondissement is filled with family-owned shops, bakeries, fromageries, and small cafes. It's a favorite among Parisians for daily errands, enjoying a coffee, or simply taking a stroll.

Another example is the Canal Saint-Martin, where you can watch Parisians enjoying picnics by the water, wander through art galleries, or take a leisurely boat ride.