Dangerous Areas in France You Should Avoid (2024)

Before moving to France, ensuring the safety of your new neighborhood is a top priority. It’s always wise to know where not to stay and which areas to avoid in France. Since selecting the right neighborhood can be challenging, this article has got you covered! Keep reading to explore the list of dangerous areas in France that you should avoid during your next visit.

Areas to Avoid in France

While most parts of France are safe, it’s wise to be aware of specific areas to avoid having higher crime rates. Neighborhoods to avoid in France include La Courneuve, Les Quartiers Sud, Les Liserons, Le Mirail and Les Bosquets. These areas have reported higher crime rates therefor it’s advisable to exercise caution when visiting them.

What are the common crimes in the France?

The most common types of crimes in France are theft, burglary, battery and pick-pocketing. Here are some key factors that visitors to France have to be careful about:

Tourist Scams

Tourist scams are not uncommon in France including fake petitions, unauthorized tour guides, and overpriced goods and services. Be cautious of unsolicited offers and always verify the legitimacy of services.

Night Safety

While France’s cities offer vibrant nightlife, certain areas may become less safe after dark. Stick to well-lit and populated areas and avoid walking alone in unfamiliar neighborhoods.

Protests and Demonstrations

France has a long history of public demonstrations and strikes, which can occasionally turn violent. Expats should avoid participating in or being near large gatherings and demonstrations, especially during periods of political unrest.

Public Transportation Safety

While France’s public transportation system is generally safe, be cautious of crowded buses and trains, where pickpocketing can occur. Keep your belongings close and be aware of your surroundings.

The 5 Most Dangerous Cities in France

While France is known for its beauty and cultural richness, some cities have higher crime rates than others. Here are some of the most dangerous cities in France based on reported crimes:

1. Marseille

As France’s second-largest city, Marseille has seen an increase in crime in recent years including theft and violent crime. Certain neighborhoods such as La Castellane and La Bricarde, are known for higher crime rates. In 2021, Marseille reported 32,591 thefts.

2. Paris

The capital city of France, Paris, attracts millions of tourists each year but it also faces challenges with petty such as crime, pickpocketing and scams, particularly in tourist hotspots like the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre Museum. In 2021, Paris reported 62,430 thefts.

3. Lyon

Known for its historic architecture and vibrant culture, Lyon also experiences higher rates of theft and property crime especially in crowded areas such as Vieux Lyon and Presqu’île. In 2021, Lyon reported 25,812 thefts.

4. Nice

Located on the French Riviera, Nice is a popular tourist destination but it also faces challenges with crime particularly in tourist areas along the Promenade des Anglais and in the Old Town. In 2021, Toulouse reported 19,345 thefts.

5. Toulouse

As a major city in southwestern France, Toulouse has seen an increase in crime in recent years including theft and vandalism. Certain neighborhoods such as Bellefontaine and Mirail are known for higher crime rates. In 2021, Nice reported 15,789 thefts.

Top 5 Places In France With The Highest Crime Rate

While France is generally safe, certain areas may have higher crime rates than others. Here are some areas to be cautious of:

1. La Reynerie, Toulouse

This neighborhood in Toulouse known for it’s art, culture, and history also has a reputation for crime and poverty with reported thefts reaching 6,212 in 2021.

2. La Villeneuve, Grenoble

This suburb of Grenoble has struggled with crime including theft and vandalism. In 2021, La Villeneuve reported 4,987 thefts.

3. Les Quartiers Nord, Marseille

Known for its high crime rates particularly related to drug trafficking and gang activity, Les Quartiers Nord reported 8,543 thefts in 2021.

4. La Castellane, Marseille

Another neighborhood in Marseille known for its crime rates La Castellane reported 5,312 thefts in 2021.

5. Les Minguettes, Lyon

Located in the outskirts of Lyon, Les Minguettes has higher rates of theft and property crimes. In 2021, Les Minguettes reported 3,621 thefts.

The 5 Neighborhoods To Avoid To Stay Safe In France

Certain neighborhoods in France may have a less favorable reputation due to higher crime rates or safety concerns. Here are some neighborhoods to be cautious of:

1. La Courneuve, Paris

Known for its social housing and poverty, La Courneuve has higher crime rates compared to other parts of Paris with 7,432 thefts reported in 2021.

2. Les Quartiers Sud, Marseille

While not as notorious as Les Quartiers Nord, this area in Marseille still faces challenges with crime. In 2021, Les Quartiers Sud reported 6,123 thefts.

3. Les Liserons, Lyon

Les Liserons, a neighborhood in Lyon has seen an increase in crime in recent years with 4,312 thefts reported in 2021.

4. Le Mirail, Toulouse

This district in Toulouse has higher rates of theft and property crimes with 3,876 thefts reported in 2021.

5. Les Bosquets, Montfermeil

This suburb of Paris gained notoriety due to its portrayal in the media and reported 3,289 thefts in 2021.

Safety Related FAQs Before Visiting France

Before traveling to France, tourists often have questions about safety and other travel-related concerns. Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions:

Is it safe to travel to France right now?

Despite some safety concerns, France remains a popular tourist destination with millions of visitors each year. By exercising caution and being aware of your surroundings you can enjoy a safe and memorable trip.

What are the safest cities to visit in France?

While safety can vary depending on various factors, cities like Bordeaux, Strasbourg and Nantes are generally considered safe for tourists.

Are there any areas in France to avoid?

While France is generally safe, certain areas particularly in major cities may have higher crime rates or safety concerns. It’s essential to research your destination and be cautious especially in unfamiliar areas.

What are some common scams in France?

Common scams in France include pickpocketing, street scams and overpriced goods and services. Be cautious of unsolicited offers and always verify the legitimacy of services.

Is it safe to use public transportation in France?

France’s public transportation system is generally safe and efficient but travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing especially in crowded areas like buses and metro systems.

Safety Tips for Tourists in France

To ensure a safe and enjoyable trip to France, consider the following safety tips:

• Keep your belongings secure and be aware of your surroundings especially in crowded tourist areas.
• Avoid carrying large sums of cash and use ATMs located in well-lit and populated areas.
• Be cautious of unsolicited approaches and politely decline any offers that seem suspicious.
• Use reputable transportation services and be cautious of pickpocketing especially on crowded buses, trains, and metro systems.
• Stay informed about local laws and customs and respect cultural differences during your visit.

While France offers a myriad of delights to explore, it’s essential to be mindful of certain areas to avoid in France for a safe and enjoyable experience. By staying informed about the places to avoid in France and taking necessary precautions, you can fully immerse yourself in the charm and allure of this beautiful country.