25 Problems with living in Paris

Anyone imagining Paris might picture romance, culture, and high fashion. But living in Paris is not always the dream it’s painted to be. Beyond the Eiffel Tower and art-filled museums, there are everyday challenges that locals deal with.

Here’s a candid look at 25 issues Parisians face, along with tips on how to navigate them.

1. Overcrowded Tourist Spots
   Iconic attractions like the Eiffel Tower and Louvre are packed, making it difficult for locals to enjoy them without battling crowds.
2. Overpriced Cocktails & Beer
   Going out for a drink can be an expensive ordeal. A basic cocktail or pint can often cost twice what it would elsewhere in Europe.
3. Smell of Urine
   The scent of urine in certain parts of the city, particularly around metro stations, is hard to ignore and an unfortunate reality for Parisians.
4. Frequent Public Transport Strikes
   Strikes are a common occurrence, causing endless disruptions. When public transport grinds to a halt, the whole city feels it.
5. Subpar Coffee, but Incredible Pastries
   While French bakeries serve some of the best pastries in the world, good coffee isn’t always as easy to come by.
6. Tiny, Overpriced Apartments
   Living spaces are generally small and costly, leaving residents paying high prices for what often feels like a shoebox.
7. Cycling Across the Champs-Élysées at Rush Hour
   Brave the famous avenue on a bike and you’ll experience a new level of heart-stopping chaos as cars zoom past.
8. Tourists Expecting a Postcard-Perfect Paris
   Visitors often have a postcard-perfect image in mind, leaving them bewildered by the real, everyday Paris.
9. Pickpockets
   A constant problem, especially in tourist-heavy areas, requiring vigilance on the metro and in crowded spots.
10. Shops Closed in August
    August sees most Parisians on holiday, and shops often close. For those left behind, it’s a challenge to find essentials.
11. Perpetual Scowls
    Parisians have a reputation for looking rather serious. The fast pace of the city and the constant stream of tourists likely contribute to this.
12. Sidewalks & Bike Lanes Used as Parking Spots
    Many motorists casually park on sidewalks and bike lanes, creating hazards for pedestrians and cyclists alike.
13. Train Ticket Hassles for Non-EU Credit Card Holders
    Non-EU residents face issues using automated ticket machines, as some only accept European credit cards.
14. Rats in the Metro
    Rats and mice are a regular sight in metro stations, adding to the city’s gritty charm for some, and discomfort for others.
15. Odd Business Hours
    Many shops and services close for lunch breaks from 12 to 2 p.m., adding to the frustration of running errands.
16. Lack of Personal Space
    Paris is densely populated, and personal space is often sacrificed on public transport and in crowded spaces.
17. Pastries Everywhere
    You can only have so many pastries before the novelty wears off, yet they remain a staple in Parisian food culture.
18. Street Littering
    Paris has a trash problem, with streets often littered, especially in busy areas.
19. Expensive Neighbourhoods & Pricey Cheap Beer
    Neighbourhoods vary in price, but even inexpensive beer can feel overpriced in certain trendy areas.
20. Paid Public Toilets
    Accessing a public toilet often requires coins, adding inconvenience when nature calls.
21. Supermarket Cheese Platters
    Ordering a cheese platter only to discover it’s from a supermarket can disappoint those expecting something gourmet.
22. Living on the 7th Floor Without a Lift
    Old buildings often lack lifts, making daily life tricky for residents of higher floors.
23. The Exact Change Dilemma
    Shops and businesses often ask for exact change, creating awkward situations when paying with cash.
24. Awkward Pharmacy Visits
    Describing medical issues to pharmacists in a second language can be uncomfortable for non-native French speakers.
25. Pigeons Everywhere
    Pigeons are a familiar sight in Paris, and their presence is particularly strong around parks, monuments, and café terraces.

Living in Paris: A Love-Hate Relationship

Living in Paris comes with many ups and downs. While it’s a city full of charm, history, and vibrant culture, the reality can be far from the romanticised image. Adapting to these challenges can make Paris’s life more manageable and enjoyable. And remember, it’s these quirks that make the city unique, even if they’re sometimes frustrating.