Traveling to France can be a trip that is rich in history, art, and even wine.
Every city has something unique to offer.
The rate of crime throughout France is relatively low, particularly when it comes to violent crime.
Areas where there is a lot of tourism are more prone to pickpocketing and “smash and grab” robberies.
By knowing the top 10 safest cities in France, you can plan an amazing trip without having to worry about crime affecting you or anyone in your party.
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10 Safest Cities in France
You will find that many cities are quite safe in France.
Even Paris, one of the largest and most populated cities in Europe, has a relatively low rate of violent crime.
Bordeaux
Bordeaux is a well-known area in France because of the amount of wine that is produced annually.
The population has an impressive 249,000 – and there will be even more than that every day because of the tourists.
It is second in tourism only to Paris.
Violent crime is not common, so you will not have much to worry about.
The biggest issue will be scammers and pickpockets, which is not uncommon, especially in the most crowded areas.
Various festivals happen in Bordeaux throughout the year, which can be a great time to travel.
As the population increases, so does the likelihood of being a victim of a tourist-focused crime.
Reims
Reims is not one of the most well-known cities in France – and that should be all the more reason to visit.
There is a population of over 180,000, so there are plenty of people strolling about.
There is a lot of history in the area, dating all the way back to the Roman Empire.
You can spend a lot of time exploring the architecture as well as some of the artisan shops.
If you visit during one of the festivals in Reims, there will be more crowds, so you will want to be careful of pickpockets.
Strasbourg
Strasbourg is a popular city in France because of the incredible views.
There are countless art galleries and quite a few historical sites, too.
Crime is low – and violent crime is even lower.
You will find that this area is near the German border, so you will see a lot of German cultures.
If you plan on traveling across the border, be sure that you have all of your travel documents – and keep copies in the event you lose or misplace something.
Toulouse
Toulouse is considered a safe region, with the most crimes being petty theft and vehicle break-ins.
The most common area where you will see crime is around the railway station.
Toulouse is the fourth largest city in France and is commonly referred to as la Ville Rose.
There are a lot of students among the population because of the many universities within the city.
Even though it is a large city, you will not see a lot of crime.
Enjoy yourself and the walkability that the city has to offer.
Lyon
With a population of over 500,000, Lyon is the third-largest city in France.
There is a lot of medieval architecture that still stands, making it a popular tourist destination.
You can enjoy most of the city both day and night thanks to the large police presence found on the streets.
One area you may want to skip after dark is the Rue St. Catherine as it is frequented by drunks and drug users.
Various tours are offered in Lyon, providing you with a safe way to explore the city.
Le Havre
Le Havre is in northern France and is a port city.
Various cruise ships and riverboats will stop in Le Havre.
With the large number of tourists that come in, there are a few more crimes here than in some of the other cities.
Additionally, the city has experienced a few natural disasters that can lead to unsafe travel conditions – including forest fires.
You can spend your time exploring the Seine, visiting the art galleries, and using it as a stepping point to explore more of the Normandy region.
Montpellier
Montpellier is a popular city within the Provence Alps, offering galleries, cathedrals, and more.
It has been gaining more tourists every year because of the restaurant scene as well as the clean beaches.
This is one of the safer cities throughout the Alps, though some neighborhoods are better than others.
Ask questions of your hotel staff or take tours so you can avoid areas where criminals may frequent.
Marseille
Marseille is found within the Provence Alps and is also part of the French Riviera.
There are some stunning views to be had – and you can always find some nightlife to take advantage of.
As you visit Marseille, it is important to remember that purse snatching is one of the most common crimes.
There are also thefts from cars, stopped and parked, so it is a good idea to keep valuables close to you at all times.
If you plan to hike within the Calanques National Park, check-in with someone or travel in groups so that you can get help when you need it.
Paris
Paris is not only the most populated city in France but it is also one of the bigger cities in Europe.
It is home to the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame, and countless exquisite art galleries.
There are not a lot of violent crimes committed considering that the population is over 2 million but it is wise to stay away from the train stations once it is dark outside.
Especially if you are traveling alone or as a female, it is best to stay in the company of tours or other travelers.
Nice
Nice has a population of 340,000.
There are some panoramic views to enjoy, and you need to use caution when stopping to take photos as thieves may use your stop as a chance to break into the car or taxi.
As you enjoy yourself on the water, on the beach, or in town, always have an eye on your belongings to avoid petty theft.
Guided sightseeing tours can be one of the easiest ways to see more of the French Riviera in a safe atmosphere.
5 Safety Tips for Traveling to France
Safety tips for traveling to France should be practiced at all times.
It can help you to avoid theft, injury, and other issues during your trip.
1. Talk to Hotel Concierge About Safest Routes
When you leave your hotel to explore for the day (or night), talk to the concierge to discuss the best route.
Some neighborhoods should be avoided.
They will also be able to tell you if you should avoid some streets past a certain point at night.
2. Avoid the “Over Friendly”
While it may sound like someone is trying to be friendly to you on the street, you have to be careful.
Many times, pickpockets will work in pairs.
One will try to be helpful to you as a distraction while the other one is stealing from you.
3. Use a Belt Pack or Pockets
Use the pockets on your cargo pants or a belt pack for your valuables.
This will help to keep cash and other items closer to you.
As you travel into crowded places, purse grabs become more common.
4. Keep Luggage Close & Locked
Traveling by train throughout France is common, and it allows you to see more of the sights.
Having luggage stolen from a train happens more than many would like to admit, especially while you are asleep.
Keep your luggage visible at all times.
If you cannot be near your luggage, use cable ties and locks to prevent people from being able to get into it easily.
5. Take Extra Precaution in Budget Hotels and Hostels
Lock your room and even use a chair or heavy luggage against the door so that you do not have to worry about thieves entering your room.
Particularly in the smaller hostels and the hotels in unsavory parts of town, keep the windows closed and locked when you are not inside.
France Safety Overview
READ THE FULL REPORT: France Safety Review
Safety Index:
- OVERALL RISK: MEDIUM
- TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: MEDIUM
- PICKPOCKETS RISK: HIGH
- NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: LOW
- MUGGING RISK: MEDIUM
- TERRORISM RISK: HIGH
- SCAMS RISK: HIGH
- WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW
Frequently Asked Questions
What areas should be avoided in Paris?
Avoid some of the under-utilized metro stations as that is where there is the most trouble.
The area of Moulin Rouge, known as Pigalle, is an adult entertainment district.
This is where you are more likely to encounter illegal drugs and prostitution.
By being more vigilant when visiting the area, you can make sure that you do not become a victim.
What city has the most crime in France?
The area of Nantes is where the most crime takes place.
It sits with a crime index of 36.26 – and crime rates have been going up in Nantes and around the country over the past three years.
What are some of the most common crimes committed against tourists in France?
Some of the most common crimes committed against tourists include vandalism, theft, assault, and armed robbery.
If you remain vigilant, you can avoid a number of problems.
Lyon, Marseille, Montpellier are not the safest places to live in France
I’ve visited Paris several times, wandered around, never felt any necessity to be in a group.
Just back from Nante May 2023 – there is a lot of agressive begging by addicts. I was approached in all areas of the city, many times per day, including inside a Carre Four supermarket and inside the train station. It’s very off-putting as a lone female. If you try to ignore them, they get pissy and shout at you.
There is also a lot of rioting damage around the main shopping area – broken shop windows, burned out bus stops and recycling bins. Stay away from the centre on weekends late at night if riots are still happening.
Can anyone tell me if Beaune or Dijon is affected by the riots?