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France Travel Guide

Capital:

Paris.

Geography:

France, the largest country in Western Europe, is bordered to the northwest by the English Channel (La Manche), to the northeast by Belgium and Luxembourg, to the east by Germany, Switzerland, and Italy, to the south by the Mediterranean (with Monaco as a coastal enclave between Nice and the Italian frontier), to the southwest by Spain and Andorra, and to the west by the Atlantic Ocean. The country’s loose six-sided shape means it often gets referred to by the informal nickname 'L’Hexagone'.

The island of Corsica, southeast of Nice, is made up of two départements. France is home to an astonishing range of scenery, from the mountain ranges of the Alps and Pyrenees to the attractive river valleys of the Loire, Rhône, and Dordogne, and the flatter countryside of Normandy and the Atlantic coast. The country has some 2,900km (1,800 miles) of coastline.

Away from the mainland and Corsica, there are several French-administered overseas departments and regions outside of Europe. These include Guadeloupe an island in the Caribbean; Réunion Island, located in the Indian Ocean just east of Madagascar; French Guiana, on the northeastern coast of South America; Martinique, another island in the Caribbean and Mayotte, an island in the Mozambique Channel.

Government:

Republic.

Head Of State:

President Emmanuel Macron since 2017.

Head Of Government:

Prime Minister Michel Barnier resigned in December 2024.

Electricity:

230 volts AC, 50Hz. European plugs with two round pins are used.

Overview

Capital:

Paris.

Geography:

France, the largest country in Western Europe, is bordered to the northwest by the English Channel (La Manche), to the northeast by Belgium and Luxembourg, to the east by Germany, Switzerland, and Italy, to the south by the Mediterranean (with Monaco as a coastal enclave between Nice and the Italian frontier), to the southwest by Spain and Andorra, and to the west by the Atlantic Ocean. The country’s loose six-sided shape means it often gets referred to by the informal nickname 'L’Hexagone'.

The island of Corsica, southeast of Nice, is made up of two départements. France is home to an astonishing range of scenery, from the mountain ranges of the Alps and Pyrenees to the attractive river valleys of the Loire, Rhône, and Dordogne, and the flatter countryside of Normandy and the Atlantic coast. The country has some 2,900km (1,800 miles) of coastline.

Away from the mainland and Corsica, there are several French-administered overseas departments and regions outside of Europe. These include Guadeloupe an island in the Caribbean; Réunion Island, located in the Indian Ocean just east of Madagascar; French Guiana, on the northeastern coast of South America; Martinique, another island in the Caribbean and Mayotte, an island in the Mozambique Channel.

Getting There

Getting There By Air

The national airline is Air France (www.airfrance.com). Flights to France are cheaper during off-peak periods - namely spring and autumn - while summer and ski season tend to see higher prices.

Major airports are: Bastia Poretta Airport, Bordeaux Airport, Grenoble-Isère Airport, Lille Airport, Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport, Marseille Provence Airport, Nantes Atlantique Airport, Nice Côte d’Azur Airport, Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport, Paris-Orly Airport, Strasbourg International Airport and Toulouse-Blagnac Airport.

Departure Tax

None.

Flight Times

From London to Paris - 1 hour 15 minutes; New York to Paris - 7 hours 20 minutes.

Getting There By Road

Travellers on the continent can drive to France by major roads from almost any direction you care to choose.

From the UK, Eurotunnel runs shuttle trains for cars, bicycles, motorcycles, coaches, minibuses, caravans and campervans between Folkestone in Kent (UK) and Calais in France. The journey takes about 35 minutes from platform to platform. For further information, contact Eurotunnel (www.eurotunnel.com).

Getting There By Water

France is easily reached from the Atlantic Ocean, the English Channel, and the Mediterranean, meaning it has many seaports. Cross-channel ferry services from the UK frequent such ports as Calais (www.calais-port.com) and Le Havre (www.havre-port.net). Marseille (www.marseille-port.fr) is the largest and busiest port in the south.

Getting Around

Getting Around By Air

The main airline connecting towns and cities within France is Air France (www.airfrance.com). Other options include easyJet (www.easyjet.com), Ryanair (www.ryanair.com) and Air Corsica (www.aircorsica.com).

Bike

The locals are passionate about cycling and much of the country lends itself well to exploration by bike. There's a good number of urban and rural bike paths, as well as an extensive network of minor roads with little traffic. Most cities and towns have at least one bicycle hire shop; some, such as Marseille and Paris, have a large-scale public bike share system.

Breakdown Services

For emergency breakdown services, dial 17 from a roadside box or call 112 from a mobile.

Car Hire

Car hire is widely available from international and domestic companies. Most of these require you to be over 21 years old and in possession of a licence for at least a year. You may have to pay a surcharge if you're under 25.

Coach

Coaches may not be as efficient as the rail network, but Eurolines (www.eurolines.eu) covers over 200 destinations in France.

Departure Tax

None.

Documentation

A national driving licence is acceptable. An international sign, distinguishing your country of origin (e.g. GB sticker or plate), should be positioned clearly on the vehicle. EU nationals taking their own cars to France are strongly advised to obtain a Green Card - a document produced by car insurers to prove that a driver has adequate insurance cover for driving abroad. You must also carry the car's registration document.

Getting Around By Rail

Interrail France Pass is available at www.interrail.eu/en/interrail-passes/one-country-pass/france while Eurail France Pass is available at www.eurail.com/en/eurail-passes/one-country-pass/france.

Regulations

The minimum age to drive a car in France is 18, and 16 for a motorcycle under 125cc. The minimum age for hiring a car in France ranges from 21 to 25. Speed limits are 50kph (31mph) in built-up areas, 80kph (50mph) outside built-up areas, 110kph (68mph) on dual carriageways separated by a central reservation, and 130kph (81mph) on motorways.

Visitors who have held a driving licence for less than two years may not travel faster than 50kph (31mph) on regular roads, 100kph (62mph) on dual carriageways and 110kph (68mph) on highways. Drivers are required to carry a breathalyser kit in the vehicle, however, you won't be penalised for not carrying one.

Getting Around By Road

France is covered by a busy network of Autoroutes (highway or motorway) and many of them are toll roads. They bear the prefix 'A' and a numeric number. For example A1, A3, A4, A5, A6, A10, A13, A14, A15, A16 radiate clockwise from Paris.

Environmental badges, which are designed to distinguish environmentally-friendly vehicles from those that pollute the air, are obligatory for Paris, Lyon and Grenoble. Cars that are licensed abroad also need environmental badges which can be bought on www.environmentalbadge.com.

Road Classification

A roads refer to Autoroutes (highways or motorways). Many of them are toll roads. Signs indicating an Autoroute (whether on the highway or pointing to it) are white letters on a blue background.

N roads are national roads. Many of them have been incorporated into D roads.

D roads are managed by the local county. They can be anything from former N roads, busy local routes to quiet country lanes.

Road Quality

Highways and main roads are generally in excellent condition. The bulk of smaller roads are well maintained, but some more remote routes can be in poor condition.

Side Of Road

r

Taxi

Taxis are widely available in all towns and cities. Train stations are the best places to find a rank.

Urban Travel

Urban public transport is excellent. There are comprehensive public transport systems in all the larger towns and cities.

Paris: RATP (Régie Autonome des Transports Parisiens) (www.ratp.fr) controls the underground (métro), rail (RER) and bus services in and around Paris. The public transport network is split into several different fare zones and a single ticket allows travel on any of the systems within that zone (although interchange is only permitted on the métro and RER, and not on buses). The Metro's network of 16 lines makes it a good way to get about central Paris. The RER (fast suburban services) operates five main lines connecting most areas of the capital. There is also an extensive network of conventional suburban services run by French Railways (SNCF).

Other cities: There are trams, trolleybuses and metro in Marseille; trolleybuses, buses, trams, two funiculars and metro in Lyon; and a tramway, bus system, and automated driverless trains in Lille. There are also excellent tram and bus services in St Étienne, Nantes, Grenoble, Limoges and Nancy.

Getting Around By Water

There are ferries serving multiple destinations including but not limited to:
• Royan and Le Verdon
• Pointe de la Fumée and Ile d'Aix
• Port Fromentine to Ile d'Yeu
• Lorient to Groix
• Nice or Toulon to Corsica

France is crisscrossed with a myriad of rivers and canals and they offer a variety of scenery, a means of visiting many historic villages and localities, and an opportunity to learn much about rural France at a leisurely pace. Worthy diversions include Canal du Midi, Canal latéral à la Loire, River Dordogne, River Loire, The Upper Seine, to name but a few.

Cruising boats may be chartered with or without crews, ranging in size from the smallest cabin cruiser up to converted commercial barges (péniches), some of which can accommodate up to 24 people, plus crew. Hotel boats (large converted barges with accommodation) are also available in some areas, with a wide range of prices and comfort levels. For further information, contact the national or regional tourist board.

Travel Advice

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide. You may also find it helpful to:

Travel insurance

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance. Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

About FCDO travel advice

The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) provides advice about the risks of travel, to help you make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice

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Sign up to get email notifications when this advice is updated.

Follow and contact FCDO: 

This information is for people travelling on a full 'British citizen' passport from the UK. It is based on the UK government's understanding of the current rules for the most common types of travel. 

The authorities in France set and enforce entry rules. If you're not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the French Embassy in the UK.

Passport validity requirements

France follows Schengen area rules. Your passport must:

  • have a 'date of issue' less than 10 years before the date you arrive – if you renewed your passport before 1 October 2018, it may have a date of issue that is more than 10 years ago
  • have an 'expiry date' at least 3 months after the date you plan to leave the Schengen area

Check with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements. Renew your passport if you need to.  

You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen. 

Visa requirements

You can travel without a visa to the Schengen area, which includes France, for up to 90 days in any 180-day period. This applies if you travel: 

  • as a tourist
  • to visit family or friends
  • to attend business meetings, cultural or sports events
  • for short-term studies or training

The requirements for working in France are different.  

If you're travelling to other Schengen countries as well, make sure your whole visit is within the 90-day visa-free limit. Visits to Schengen countries in the 180 days before you travel count towards your 90 days. If you overstay the 90-day visa-free limit, you may be banned from entering Schengen countries for up to 3 years.

If you cannot return to the UK before your visa-free limit expires, contact the nearest local prefecture in France.

Make sure you get your passport stamped on entry and exit.  

If you're a visitor, border guards will look at passport stamps to check you have not overstayed the 90-day visa-free limit for the Schengen area.

If your passport is missing a stamp, show evidence of when and where you entered or left the Schengen area (for example, boarding passes or tickets) and ask the border guards to add the date and location in your passport. 

At French border control, you may need to:

  • show proof of your accommodation
  • show proof of your travel insurance
  • show a return or onward ticket
  • prove that you have enough money for your stay

Staying with family, friends or a third party

You may be asked to provide a welcome invitation ('attestation d'accueil') from your host. The French resident hosting you must get the attestation d'accueil from their local mayor's office and send the original attestation before you enter France.

Second homes in France

You may need to show evidence of ownership or tenancy of your property, such as a tax or utility bill.

Staying longer than 90 days in a 180-day period

To stay longer than 90 days, you must meet the French government's entry requirements

If you're in France with a residence permit or long-stay visa, this does not count towards your 90-day visa-free limit for the Schengen area.  

Read about passport stamping if you live in France.

New Schengen entry requirements

Plans for the introduction of the new EU Entry/Exit System (EES) for all non-EU nationals, including British nationals, travelling in or out of the Schengen area has been delayed. Information will be updated when available.

Read more information on the EU Entry/Exit System.

Border controls at Germany's land borders 

There are temporary border controls in place to travel into Germany.  Check the entry requirements for Germany.

Vaccine requirements

For details about medical entry requirements and recommended vaccinations, see TravelHealthPro's France guide

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods you can take into or out of France. You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty. 

Taking food and drink into France

You cannot take meat, milk or products containing them into EU countries. There are some exceptions such as powdered baby milk, baby food and special foods or pet feed required for medical reasons.  

Taking money into France

Declare cash or travellers cheques if the value is 10,000 euros or more. You will get a certified declaration to show you brought it in with you. If you do not, your money could be seized when you leave. 

Terrorism

There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.

UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe abroad and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad.

Terrorism in France 

Terrorists are very likely to try to carry out attacks in France.

Terrorism attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places visited by tourists and foreign nationals such as:

  • shopping centres
  • entertainment establishments and nightlife venues
  • sporting and cultural events
  • public transport and national and international transport hubs
  • places of worship
  • crowded places and public gatherings

Methods of attack have included knife attacks, shootings, bombings and vehicle attacks. Be vigilant in public places and follow the advice of local French authorities.

There have been several recent high-profile terrorist attacks in France, including: 

  • in 2023, one person was killed in a knife and hammer attack in central Paris
  • in 2023, a teacher was killed in a knife attack in a school in Arras

French authorities regularly report that they have disrupted planned attacks and made arrests.

Industrial action and demonstrations 

Industrial action

There can be frequent industrial action across France. This can lead to disruption and delays on roads and public transport. If you're due to travel to or within France, monitor the media, check your operator's advice and follow the advice of the authorities. 

Demonstrations

Demonstrations, political gatherings, or marches can take place with little or no warning, particularly in cities. 

Whilst most demonstrations are peaceful, if you're near areas where they are taking place, you should remain aware of what is happening around you and follow the advice of the police and local authorities.

Crime

Protecting your belongings

Take sensible precautions against street crime and car crime. Pickpockets can work in gangs; one distracts you while the other one goes into your bag.

Thieves and pickpockets operate on the Paris Métro, on RER (train) lines and at mainline stations. To reduce the risk of theft:

  • keep your passport, credit cards and other valuables in separate bags or pockets
  • use the inside compartments in bags where possible
  • carry your bag across your body rather than on your shoulder
  • keep your belongings close to you in restaurants and bars
  • do not leave any valuables in your vehicle
  • do not get distracted around tourist attractions and ATMs

Assaults

There have been several cases of serious assault on the RER line B, which serves:

  • Paris Charles de Gaulle airport
  • Orly Airport
  • Paris Gare du Nord Eurostar terminus

There have also been serious assaults on RER line D, which serves the Stade de France.

Drink spiking and sexual assault

Be alert to the possible use of 'date rape' and other drugs including GHB and liquid ecstasy.

Buy your own drinks and always keep them in sight to avoid them being spiked. Alcohol and drugs can reduce your vigilance, making you less in control. If you drink, know your limit. Drinks served in bars in France are often stronger than those in the UK.

Laws and cultural differences

Personal ID

You must be able to prove your identity by providing documents when asked or within 4 hours at a police station. Accepted IDs are:

  • passport
  • photocard driving licence
  • other documentation provided by a government body

Face-covering ban

Covering your face in public places in France is illegal. This includes balaclavas, full veils or any other garment or mask that is used to hide the face. You could get a fine of up to 150 euros if you do not comply.

Forcing someone to hide their face is also a crime and is punishable by a year's imprisonment and a fine of up to 30,000 euros. If the person forced to hide their face is under 18 years old, the sentence is doubled. This law applies to tourists.

Outdoor activities and adventure tourism

Swimming safety

Local sea conditions can be dangerous even for strong swimmers. Most beaches have lifeguards and flag warning systems. Make sure you understand the warning system before swimming and always follow the advice closely. See water safety on holiday from the Royal Life Saving Society.

Some beaches have strong undercurrents, especially along the Atlantic coast. There is a risk of riptides ('baïnes') in some areas, particularly around the coast of Gironde and Landes. 

Follow local advice if there are jellyfish in the sea.  

Watersports

Before taking part in water-based activities, find out how you and your friends or family will be supervised and supported.

See ⁠watersports safety advice from the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (ROSPA).

Trekking and mountaineering

Check weather forecasts and conditions and make sure you're properly prepared. Do not undertake any activity alone and consider hiring a guide for expert advice. Always leave copies of your itinerary with someone.

In mountainous areas, make sure your insurance covers you for extra costs such as mountain rescue service and helicopter evacuation. In the départements of Savoie and Haute-Savoie, you may need to be transferred to Switzerland for treatment.

Winter sports

Read advice on how to prepare for winter sports. Check current weather forecasts and avalanche risks on the Meteo France website and consider carrying avalanche search equipment if you ski off-piste.

Transport risks

Road travel

If you are planning to drive in France, see information on driving abroad and check the rules of the road in the RAC's France guide. The guide lists driving regulations and other legal requirements you need to be aware of. 

You can use a UK photocard driving licence to drive in France. If you still have a paper driving licence, you may need to update it to a photocard licence or get the correct version of the international driving permit (IDP) as well. 

Check if you need a UK sticker to drive your car outside the UK. These have replaced GB stickers.

Hire car companies often have stricter requirements for their customers, such as a year of driving experience, a higher minimum age and holding an IDP

Penalties

Police give you on-the-spot fines for driving offences, including speeding.

France has strict drink-driving laws and the legal alcohol limit is a third lower than the limit for England and Wales. Police regularly carry out roadside checks for alcohol and drugs. Penalties include fines, loss of licence and prison.

Winter tyres and chains

Vehicles driven in certain mountain regions during the winter period (1 November to 31 March) must be fitted with winter tyres or chains. You could receive a fine if you do not comply. Visit the French public services website for more information (in English) about: 

  • what type of vehicle this applies to 

  • what type of tyre or chain should be fitted 

  • where in France these rules apply.

Air pollution sticker

All vehicles driving in central Paris, Lyon and Grenoble must display a pollution sticker from 8am to 8pm, Monday to Friday. Checks can happen at any time, depending on pollution levels.

Some older vehicles do not qualify for a sticker at all due to their high emissions. These vehicles must not be driven in central Paris from 8am to 8pm, Monday to Friday.

Other cities may also limit vehicle access to town centres and main roads. For more information or to apply for a sticker, visit the French Ministry of Environment website.

Road safety

If you're involved in a car accident or witness an accident on the motorway, use the orange emergency phones to ask for help.

If you are driving long distances in France:

  • plan your journey carefully
  • take into account unknown roads, weather conditions and fatigue
  • take regular breaks

Keep vehicle doors locked in slow-moving traffic and secure your vehicle if you leave it unattended.

Information on road safety and potential traffic black spots is available on the Bison Futé website (in French). Real-time information on road traffic conditions is also available on Motorways Radio: 107.7 FM in French and in English.

Risk of people entering your vehicle   

There have been attempts by people to enter private vehicles with a view to entering the UK illegally. They may target vehicles like camper vans while stationary or in slow-moving traffic. Sometimes people might try to slow down traffic on roads to ports, including by placing obstacles on the Calais Port road. 

Keep car doors locked, keep moving where it's safe to do so, and do not leave your vehicle unattended. If it is not safe to proceed, stop and call 112.

Commercial transport firms must take steps to prevent people from entering their vehicles.  

Thefts from caravans and camper vans

Burglaries can happen while you are asleep in your vehicle. Take sensible precautions against vehicle break-ins. You should:

  • avoid parking in isolated or dark areas of unsupervised camping grounds or car parks
  • consider installing an alarm

Extreme weather and natural disasters

Find out what you can do to prepare for and respond to extreme weather and natural hazards.

Wildfires     

Wildfires can start anywhere in France during the summer months, particularly along the Mediterranean coast and in Corsica.

The French weather service have launched a fire alert map for travellers to check.

Fires have become more frequent because of drought and high temperatures. French authorities may evacuate areas and close roads for safety reasons.

If you're staying in a high-risk area:

  • check the local safety and emergency procedures
  • be vigilant
  • follow the advice of local authorities

If you are caught in, or witness, a wildfire call the emergency services on 18 (fire) or 112 (emergency services).

See information for property owners about bush clearance which can be mandatory in some areas.

Flooding

There is a risk of flooding in areas of France. If your accommodation is near a river, check flash flood watch ('vigicrues') (in French) for more information on current flood risks.

Avalanches

There is a risk of avalanches in mountainous areas. Check current weather forecasts and avalanche risks on the Meteo France website. Follow local advice before you ski or hike and consider carrying avalanche search equipment.

Conditions on roads in mountainous areas can quickly become difficult in winter. Carry water, food, warm clothing and medicines in your vehicle.

Before you travel check that:

  • your destination can provide the healthcare you may need
  • you have appropriate travel insurance for local treatment or unexpected medical evacuation

This is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant.

Emergency medical number

Call 112 and ask for an ambulance.

Contact your insurance or medical assistance company quickly if you're referred to a medical facility for treatment.

Vaccine recommendations and health risks

At least 8 weeks before your trip:

See what health risks you'll face in France, including:

  • dengue
  • biting insects and ticks

Altitude sickness is a risk in parts of France. Read more about altitude sickness on TravelHealthPro

Medication

The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or bought in the UK can be different in other countries.

Read best practice when travelling with medicines on TravelHealthPro

Healthcare in France

FCDO has a list of hospitals in major cities including Paris, Marseille and Bordeaux region where some staff will speak English.        

Health insurance cards

To get medically necessary state healthcare in France, you need a Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) or a valid existing European Health Insurance Card (EHIC).

The NHS's getting healthcare abroad webpage has details about:

  • how to apply for a GHIC
  • how to get temporary cover if you lose your card or it does not arrive in time
  • who qualifies for a new EHIC instead of a GHIC
  • what treatment counts as medically necessary

State healthcare in France is not always free. Treatment is on the same basis as for French citizens.

A GHIC or EHIC is not an alternative to travel insurance. You may have costs your GHIC or EHIC does not cover, including:

  • changes to travel and accommodation bookings
  • additional standard costs for treatment
  • medical repatriation to the UK
  • treatment that is ruled non-urgent
  • private healthcare
  • private clinics

There is also guidance on healthcare if you're living in France.  

Travel and mental health

Read FCDO guidance on travel and mental health. There is also mental health guidance on TravelHealthPro.

Telephone 112 (ambulance, fire, police)

Ambulance: 15

Fire: 18

Police: 17

Deaf and hard of hearing emergency number (SMS, chat, video and fax): 114

Contact your travel provider and insurer

Contact your travel provider and your insurer if you are involved in a serious incident or emergency abroad. They will tell you if they can help and what you need to do.

Refunds and changes to travel

For refunds or changes to travel, contact your travel provider. You may also be able to make a claim through insurance. However, insurers usually require you to talk to your travel provider first.

Find out more about changing or cancelling travel plans, including:

  • where to get advice if you are in a dispute with a provider
  • how to access previous versions of travel advice to support a claim

Support from FCDO

FCDO has guidance on staying safe and what to do if you need help or support abroad, including:

Contacting FCDO

Help abroad

See how to get help from the UK government abroad including in an emergency.

Help in the UK

You can call FCDO in London if you need urgent help because something has happened to a friend or relative abroad.

Telephone: 020 7008 5000 (24 hours)

Find out about call charges

Get travel advice updates

Sign up to get email notifications when this travel advice is updated.

Follow and contact FCDO: 

Risk information for British companies

The Overseas Business Risk service offers information and advice for British companies operating in France on how to manage political, economic, and business security-related risks. 

Vaccinations

Title Special Precautions
Yellow Fever No*
Tetanus Yes
Typhoid No
Hepatitis A No
Malaria No
Rabies No
Diphtheria No

Overview:

Travel insurance is advised for all visitors. In some medical cases, if you are European, you might be able to receive free treatment if you can show proof of a valid European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) obtained in your country of origin.

The overall standards of healthcare in France are excellent. Hospitals and surgeries are well equipped and staff are proficient. In pharmacies, over-the-counter advice is given and standard medicines are sold.

Food Drink:

This being France, the only real problems posed by the local food and drink are mild stomach complaints resulting from overindulgence. Tap water is safe to drink (although you'll find a huge amount of bottled water for sale too) and cooked food, assuming it's come from a hygienic kitchen, is certainly no riskier to consume than that of any developed country. Some travellers steer clear of unpasteurised dairy products due to a perceived risk of disease, while others laud the same products for their perceived health benefits. If you're at all unsure, it's probably best to stick to what you're used to.

Other Risks:

Visitors to forested areas should consider vaccination for tick-borne encephalitis.

In more universal terms, sunburn is perhaps the most common complaint among visitors to France, particularly over the summer months – temperatures are generally higher in the south but it's wise to be cautious across the country. The usual precautions apply: use a generous amount of sunscreen and be sensible about how long you spend in direct sunlight. Be aware that a breezy day can sometimes mask high temperatures.

If walking over a long distance in warm weather, it's advisable to carry and drink plenty of water and to wear appropriate clothing, including a sun hat. Blisters can be another problem for hikers. These can often occur if new walking shoes are being worn across a long distance. Ideally footwear should be worn in before the trip.

Currency Information:

Euro (EUR; symbol €) = 100 cents. Notes are in denominations of €500, 200, 100, 50, 20, 10 and 5. Coins are in denominations of €2 and 1, and 50, 20, 10, 5, 2 and 1 cents.

Credit Cards:

American Express, Diners Club, MasterCard, and Visa are widely accepted across the country. If you are eating at a restaurant, check prior to the meal that your card will be an acceptable form of payment. Even in cities, it is advisable to carry some cash with you.

ATMs:

ATMs compatible with international banking networks are in all towns and cities, as well as airports, major train stations and other spots.

Travellers Cheques:

Travellers cheques are not widely used now, but they are accepted in France.

Banking Hours:

Standard banking hours in France are Mon-Fri 0830-1700 hours. Some banks extend their hours one day a week and some branches also open on Sat between 0900-1300 hours.

In Monaco, banks are normally open Mon-Fri 0900-1200 and 1400-1700 hours.

Currency Restrictions:

There are no restrictions on the import or export of local or foreign currency. However, amounts exceeding €10,000 or equivalent must be declared if travelling from or to a country outside the European Union.

Currency Exchange:

Currency exchange can be made in most banks and post offices as well as in some large stores, train stations, airports, and exchange offices near major tourist sites. Shops and hotels are prohibited by law from accepting foreign currency. Travellers should check with their banks for details and current rates.

Currencies

Code Symbol
EUR

Exchange Rates

0.71
1.00
1.19
0.96

Language

French is the official language. There are many regional dialects, but these are rapidly declining with the exception of Basque, which is spoken as a first language by some people in the southwest. Breton is also spoken by some in Brittany. Most French can also speak English.

Overview:

Public holidays are listed here.

.

List Of Public Holidays

Title Start Date To Be Confirmed
New Year's Day 2024-01-01 00:00:00 0
Easter Monday 2024-04-01 00:00:00 0
Labour Day 2024-05-01 00:00:00 0
Victory Day 1945 2024-05-08 00:00:00 0
Ascension Day 2024-05-09 00:00:00 0
Whit Monday 2024-05-20 00:00:00 0
Bastille Day 2024-07-14 00:00:00 0
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Overview:

France is within the European Union. If you are travelling from outside of the EU, you are entitled to buy fragrance, skincare, cosmetics, Champagne, wine, selected spirits, fashion accessories, gifts and souvenirs - all at tax-free equivalent prices.

France's duty-free allowance for travellers from EU countries:

If you are over 17 years old, you are free to buy and take goods with you when travelling between EU countries, provided that you have paid tax on these goods and they are for your own use (not for sale). However, if you bring in more than the following, customs officials are likely to question you:

• 800 cigarettes or 400 cigarillos or 200 cigars or 1kg of tobacco.
• 90L of still wine of which a maximum of 60L can be sparkling wine.
• 110L of beer.
• 10L of alcoholic beverages stronger than 22% or 20L of fortified or sparkling wine or other liqueurs up to 22%.
• 90L of still wine of which a maximum of 60L can be sparkling wine.

Beware that each EU country has different rules for travellers under 17 years old. Please check before you travel.

France's duty-free allowance for travellers from non-EU countries:

If you are arriving from a non-EU country, the following goods may be imported into France by travellers with a minimum age of 17 years without incurring customs duty:

• 200 cigarettes (1 carton) or 100 cigarillos (max. 3 grams each) or 50 cigars or 250g of tobacco. You may combine any of these products provided that you do not exceed the total limit.
• 4L of wine and 16L of beer and 1L of spirits over 22% volume or 2L of alcoholic beverages less than 22% volume. You may combine any of these products provided that you do not exceed the total limit.
• Travellers arriving by car must not exceed the petrol allowance of one full tank and an additional 10 litres in a portable container.
• Other goods up to the value of €430 for air and sea travellers and €300 for other travellers (reduced to €175 for children under 15).
*Special rules apply for tobacco products imported from Andorra.

With the Déclare Douane app, travelers can calculate whether customs duties are due and how much.

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Banned Imports:

Items which are either prohibited or require a licence include weapons and ammunition, drugs (other than those prescribed for personal use), live animals, plant products, cultural artefacts and endangered species.

You also cannot bring meat, fish or dairy products from outside the EU to France.

There is a ban on the import of the following goods from the Russian Federation into the EU: diamonds, gold, jewelry, cigarettes, cosmetics, seafood (e.g. caviar), spirits (e.g. vodka), shoes, clothing and smartwatches.

Telephone:

Card-only telephones are common, which can be used with pre-paid cards bought from post offices and tabacs. Coin boxes are being phased out throughout the country. Calls can be received at phone boxes that show the sign of a blue bell. Information in English and other languages can be accessed by pressing the button with a two-flags icon.

Mobile Telephone:

Roaming agreements exist with most international mobile phone companies. The coverage is excellent.

Internet:

Wi-Fi is ubiquitous in France. Most hotels, restaurants, cafes and shops offer customers free access to their networks. Some larger towns and cities have free hotspots. Access is also available in internet cafés, which are found in most towns.

Post

Stamps can be purchased at post offices and tabacs. Post normally takes a couple of days to reach its destination within Europe. In Monaco, expect the same rates as France. Visit any of the seven post offices to get Monegasque postage stamp.

Post Office Hours:

Mon-Fri 0900-1900, Sat 0900-1200. Post office in small towns and villages may have shorter working hours, while the main office in Paris is open 24 hours. In Monaco, the hours are Mon-Fri 0800-1900, Sat 0800-1300.

Media:

France ranks 32nd in the 2019 World Press Freedom Index according to Reporters Without Borders (rsf.org). Most popular newspapers include Le Figaro, Le Monde and L'Equipe. The main English-language daily is the International Herald Tribune. Outside of Paris (the Ile-de-France) region, the provincial press is often more popular than the national press.

TV channels include publicly-owned France 2, France 3, France 4, France 5, France Ô (ending in 2020) and Arte. Privately run channels include TF1, Canal+ and M6, to name but a few.

There is a myriad of radio stations in France including but not limited to France Inter, France Culture, RTL, Les Indés Radios, RMC, NRJ, RFM, Skyrock, Rire et Chansons, Europe 1, among others.

There is only one daily newspaper in Monaco called Monaco-Matin. French papers—and the tabloid magazines—also cover news daily from the principality. A weekly publication, the Monaco Hebdo, covers Monaco's current affairs. The Journal de Monaco is an internal government journal published weekly. Other newspapers include La Gazette de Monaco and Monaco Life. French newspapers are widely available, as are English books and magazines. The Riviera Reporter is the only English-language magazine for residents in the French Riviera, which can also be found online. Riviera Radio is a privately-run English-language network.

Château de Versailles: revel in the opulence

The Palace of Versailles is a magnificent royal chateau that served as the centre of political power in pre-revolutionary France. Today, the super-sized and beautiful structure remains delicately preserved and represents a fascinating insight into the grand flavours and follies of its day. You'll find priceless artwork, regal luxury and flamboyant design at every turn.

Normandy: cross to Mont Saint-Michel

Normandy's most iconic sight draws countless visitors yearly with its impossibly photogenic setting: Mont Saint-Michel (Saint Michael's Mount) is a rocky island surrounded by tidal waters 1km (0.6 miles) off the coast of Normandy. It was founded in 708 by the Bishop of Avranches, who built a chapel there after the Archangel Michael appeared to him in a dream.

Lascaux: see the caves art

Discovered by chance in 1940 by a group of teenagers, the cave paintings of Lascaux are considered to be among the world's best examples of prehistoric art. The 15,000-year-old images of bulls, horses and reindeer caused a visiting Pablo Picasso to proclaim, 'we have invented nothing'.

Chamonix: take to the peaks

A magnet for winter sports fans, summer hikers and serious climbers, Chamonix is France's mountain resort par excellence. In addition to the range of opportunities for physical activity, there are plenty of options for those more interested in enjoying the views. As backdrops go, the Mont Blanc Massif takes some beating.

St Tropez: live the high life

Synonymous with glamour, glitz, and the various other trappings of the jet set, St Tropez was 'discovered' by Brigitte Bardot in the 1950s and has been a trendy holiday destination ever since. Over the summer months, shiny mega-yachts pack the town's marina, which sits on the gleaming Côte d'Azur.

Provence: discover the natural beauty

This long-eulogised region of southeast France is famed for its breathtaking countryside and its sense of romance, which combine to create one of the most magical corners of the nation. From medieval hilltop villages to purple fields of lavender, Provence is one of the country's most seductive destinations.

Paris: sightsee to your heart’s content

Anywhere that boasts the Louvre, Eiffel Tower, the Arc de Triomphe, Sacré-Cœur, and Notre Dame Cathedral is more than just another city. Equal parts chic, edgy and drop-dead beautiful, Paris is always cosmopolitan, ever-changing, and unmissable.

Millau Viaduct: traverse the world's tallest bridge

Designed by British architect Norman Foster, the astonishing Millau Viaduct is today the tallest bridge in the world. Its modernist structure is made all the more impressive by its rural setting, spanning the valley of the River Tarn in the south. You'll need to pay a toll to cross by vehicle.

Lyon: lose yourself in this idyllic city

There's a great deal more to France's third-largest city than its fabled restaurant scene - although miss that at your peril, foodies. When you aren't savouring the cuisine, you'll discover the art museums, vibrant clubbing scene, riverside walks, and historic old town that make this city an alluring destination. Eurostar can whisk you there from London in five hours.

Gorges du Verdon: kayak across a vast river gorge

Considered by many to be the most impressive river gorge in Europe (others have it as France's answer to the Grand Canyon), the Gorges du Verdon reaches depths of up to 700m (2,297ft), with steep banks blanketed in greenery. Join a kayak tour to get onto the water.

Carcassonne: explore the charming town

Almost too picture-perfect to be true, the fortified town of Carcassonne is home to a wealth of monuments from different eras. Rising above the plains of the lower valley like some far-fetched storybook citadel, it's a favourite of history buffs. And with its current spread of restaurants, Carcassonne is an ideal destination for gastronomes too.

Cannes: experience the film festival

The Côte d'Azur resort of Cannes bursts to life each spring when its iconic film festival comes to town. La Croisette, the town's seafront promenade, becomes an A-list parade of directors, producers and Hollywood actors, while yachts file along the harbour-side. Even if you don't bag a ticket for a screening, it's a spectacle.

Loire Valley: cycle through the countryside

Is there a better way to take in the medieval chateaux and sparkling wine caves of the Loire region than on two wheels? The gentle pace of life here has drawn countless artists and writers over the years, and plenty of cyclists as well. Bike hire is easily arranged.

Corsica: explore the rugged island

The island of Corsica is a wonder once visited, never forgotten. Ruffled with mountain ranges and edged by vertiginous cliffs, it's a place of rugged beauty and age-old heritage. Its hiking trails are among the most celebrated in Europe – particularly the world-famous GR20, a challenging long-distance trek through the hills.

French Alps: ski in a snowy wonderland

The French Alps play host to some of the most famed ski resorts in Europe, among them Courchevel, Val-d'Isère, Méribel and L'Alpe d'Huez. The region as a whole covers a colossal area and offers superb choices for skiers of all levels. At most resorts, the season runs from mid-December to April.

Brittany: explore past and present

A region with a deeply individual character, Brittany blends a proud Celtic heritage with a trove of vibrant travel attractions, from prehistoric megaliths and lively port cities to dense forests and dramatic coastlines. Its still-keen sense of independence only adds to the overall ambience. The Breton language, while not widely spoken, is still very much in evidence.

Marseille: feel the energy

Simmering with the colourful urban rhythms of the south, Marseille is a coastal city with a multi-layered history and a character that's part Provence, part North Africa. From the lively buzz of the daily portside fish market to the clamorous throng of its football crowds, it's a city with a boisterous, confident identity that remains very much its own.

Alsace: drive along the superb Alsace wine route

There's no shortage of enjoyable French wine trails to explore, but the Route des Vins d’Alsace - a gloriously scenic 170km (106 miles) drive through the hushed, hilly countryside - is arguably the most atmospheric of the lot. Wine can be bought and tasted at roadside cellars. Alsace wines are predominantly white – the area's dry Rieslings are world-class.

Overview

The vast range of available goods - from luxury fashion, gastronomic specialities, arts and crafts, to antique furniture - have led to France being known as a shopper's paradise.

Paris: The golden triangle, formed by avenue des Champs-Elysées, avenue Montaigne and rue François 1er, is lined with flagship boutiques from renown fashion chains. The rue du Faubourg St-Honoré also houses big-name designers like Hermes and Saint Laurent. For flea markets, check out porte de Vanves and porte de Saint Ouen. For more information, see this Shopping in Paris guide.

Marseille: Diversity is everything in Marseille – within short walks you can go from upmarket departmental stores to spice-laden backstreet stores. The main areas include rue Paradis (for luxury brands) and rue St Ferréol (for affordable items). The farmers market on cours Julien on every Wednesday morning is a must-see too. For more information, see this Shopping in Marseille guide.

Lyon: The vibrant rue de la République and the revamped docklands are key areas. Puces du Canal flea market (3 rue Eugène Pottier) is packed with permanent merchants and ad-hoc sellers, ideal for bargain hunters. For more information, see this Shopping in Lyon guide.

Lille: On the first Sunday in September, Lille hosts the largest flea market in Europe, the well-known Braderie de Lille. The event attracts over 10,000 sellers and more than two million visitors. For those after luxury items, rue de la Grande Chaussée is the place to be. For more information, see this Shopping in Lille guide.

Opening Hours

Department stores open Mon-Sat 0900-1830. Some shops close 1200-1400. Food shops open 0700-1830/1930. Some food shops (particularly bakers) open Sunday mornings, in which case they will probably close Monday. Many shops close all day Monday, or Monday afternoon. Hypermarkets are normally open until 2100 or 2200.

Overview

From the baking aromas wafting from the traditional village boulangeries to the Michelin-starred fussiness of the gourmet restaurants, France has an almost unparalleled reputation for food.

Crucially, while the archetypal French dish is a fabulously rich preparation, the national cuisine is in truth as varied as the country's landscape, and much of its prestige comes from the quality of its regional specialities. It is not all about the ultra-exclusive eateries either – many of the choicest gastronomic treats are simple, affordable and delicious. And did we mention the cheese? It is said that there are 1600 distinct types of French cheese grouped into eight categories with each region has its own specialities. For example, the Lorraine region is famous for Munster Géromé, while the Bourgogne region is famous for Époisses, to name but a few.

Bon appétit.

Regional Specialities

Tipping

A 15% service charge is normally added to the bill in hotels, restaurants, and bars, but it is customary to leave small change with the payment.

Drinking Age

18.

Hotels

France's hotels run the full gamut from palatial to poky, with international chains, privately owned properties and some of the most bling-encrusted luxury on the planet. Prices are normally displayed by the entrance and within the rooms themselves – these include taxes and service, but there's almost always an extra charge for breakfast. Expect to pay significantly more for hotel accommodation in Paris. An advance amount is usually required as a deposit and – regardless of the type of hotel – it's always sensible to make management aware if you intend to arrive late in the day.

Grading: The grading system is from 1 to 5 stars.

Camping Caravaning

France has no shortage of campsites and a few of them have tents and caravans for hire. Prices vary according to location, season and facilities. All graded campsites will provide water, toilet, and washing facilities. Touring caravans may be imported for stays of up to six consecutive months. The French Government Tourist Office has a full list of tour operators who run all types of tours, including camping and special interest holidays.

Before planning a caravan trip, it’s essential to have the correct paperwork in order (insurance documents and an up to date passport), and applying for a Camping Card International allows you to earn discounts at some camping sites

Other

History

Prior to the French Revolution in 1789, France was a monarchy known for its colourful (and often extravagant) royals – not least Louis XIV, or the Sun King, who moved his court from Paris to Versailles in the 1680s. The revolution itself brought about a sea change in the way the whole country was structured, shifting power from the church and nobility to the state.

The Napoleonic era oversaw the expansion of the French Empire, before defeat at Waterloo in 1815 which resulted in the restoration of the monarchy. Napoleon himself was exiled to a South Atlantic island, where he died.

Back in France, the abdication of King Louis-Philippe in 1848 established the formation of the Second Republic, and since then, different heads of state have led the country. In the latter half of the 19th century, much of Paris' famous architecture - including its avenues of Haussmann buildings and the Eiffel Tower - was constructed.

In the 20th century, France played an important role in both world wars (where notably, the country's surrender to Nazi Germany in 1940 resulted in the temporary Vichy Regime), but the post-war presidency of Charles de Gaulle restored stability. The famous anti-government protests of 1968, however, eventually led to de Gaulle's downfall.

In modern times, Emmanuel Macron, the founder of a new party 'La République En Marche!' was elected president in 2017. At age 39, he became the youngest President in the history of France. His aim to reform the public sector, welfare benefits and the French pension system has been met with waves of protests - in April 2018, rail workers announced a three-month strike challenging the government's employment reforms, and from November 2018, Gilets jaunes (yellow-jacket protesters) have marched the streets in Paris and other French cities against fuel tax increase and tough austerity measures.

Did you know?
• France has around 1,000 chateaux and roughly 1,600 kinds of cheese.
• In February 2016, France has become the first country in the world to ban supermarkets from throwing away or destroying unsold food.
• King Louis XIX had the shortest reign of any French monarch: 20 minutes.

Religion

63-66% Christians, 23-28% unaffiliated and 7-9% Muslims.

Social Conventions

Shaking hands and, more familiarly, kissing both cheeks, are the usual forms of greeting. The form of personal address is simply 'Monsieur' or 'Madame' without a surname and it may take time to get on first-name terms. At more formal dinners, the most important guest or host gives the signal to start eating. Mealtimes are often a long and leisurely experience.

Casual wear is common but some clubs, casinos, and exclusive restaurants warrant more formal attire. Eveningwear is normally specified where required. Topless sunbathing is tolerated on most beaches but naturism is restricted to specific beaches - local tourist offices will advise where these are. A smoking ban for workplaces and public spaces has been in place since February 2007.

Best Time To Visit:

A popular year-round destination, France has an affable climate boasting long hot summers and cool winters, which bring snow to higher ground. Summer (June-August) is warm and sunny across much of the country; this is peak tourist season. If you're visiting at this time, prepare to face crowds at major sights, attractions, and coastal resorts, particularly along the French Riviera.

Paris is best experienced in spring (March to May) as it is less crowded than summer. Visit the Weather in Paris and the best time to visit Paris guide for more information.

If you like intense heat, south of France and St Tropez are sizzling hot in June, July and August. Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-October) are decidedly quieter; prices are also considerably cheaper.

Bordeaux is one of France's most popular wine regions and the largest growing wine region in the country. Autumn is the best time to visit as the days are warm and the nights are cooler, plus there are plenty of wine harvest festivals. May and June are also good months to visit, with pleasant weather and wildflowers in bloom.

The Alps & Pyrenees draw the crowds during the ski season (December-March) as they fill up the resorts, ready for skiing and winter sports activities. Avid hikers take to the mountains in early June to trek the beautiful trails, lined with wildflowers.

Northeastern areas have warm summers and colder winters with rainfall distributed throughout the year and snowfall likely in winter. The Atlantic influences the climate of the western coastal areas from the Loire to the Basque region, where the weather is temperate and relatively mild with rainfall throughout the year. Summers here can be very hot and sunny – sunburn is a risk if you're unprepared.

Provence promises one of the prettiest natural spectacles between the last week of June and the first week of August when the lavender fields in The Luberon burst into full bloom. By visiting in mid-June you'll likely miss the tourists, as mid-August is the busiest time of year.

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Required Clothing

Light, breathable clothing for summer and waterproof winter gear for the mountains all year round. In winter, even the Mediterranean resorts often require a sweater or jacket for the cool evenings.

Dialing Code:

+33

Area(sq km):

551500

Population:

67.063.703

Population Density(per sq km):

120

Population Year:

2019

EU Member:

Yes

Main emergency number

112
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