France Travel Guide
Essential travel information — emergency numbers, safety, currency, visas, customs and getting around.
France is generally a safe country for tourists, but like any major travel destination, it has areas where petty crime like pickpocketing is common, especially in crowded tourist spots and on public transport. Vigilance is advised.
Euro (EUR)
Type E, Type F
Service charge (service compris) is usually included in restaurant and cafe bills. Tipping an extra 5-10% for excellent service is common but not mandatory. For taxi drivers, rounding up the fare is customary.
Prepaid SIM cards are readily available from major providers like Orange, SFR, and Bouygues Telecom at airports, train stations, and mobile phone shops. Bring your passport for registration.
Citizens of the EU, EEA, and Switzerland do not need a visa. Many other nationalities (e.g., USA, Canada, Australia) can enter visa-free for up to 90 days within a 180-day period for tourism purposes. Check specific requirements based on your nationality prior to travel.
Right
Major cities like Paris, Lyon, and Marseille have excellent public transport networks including metros, trams, and buses. Tickets can often be purchased at stations or from vending machines. Consider multi-day passes for extensive use.
Uber, Bolt, Free Now
France has an extensive and efficient high-speed rail network (TGV) connecting major cities. Regional trains (TER) serve smaller towns. Buses are also available for intercity travel, often a more economical option. Car rental is widely available for exploring rural areas.
- • Greet people with a polite "Bonjour" (Good day) or "Bonsoir" (Good evening) and "Au revoir" (Goodbye).
- • Always say "S'il vous plaît" (Please) and "Merci" (Thank you).
- • It's customary to give a light kiss on each cheek (la bise) when greeting friends and family, but a handshake is appropriate for more formal introductions.
- • Table manners are important: keep both hands above the table, do not rest elbows on the table, and wait for everyone to be served before starting to eat.
Dress tends to be smart casual. For city exploration, comfortable yet stylish clothing is suitable. For religious sites, it's respectful to dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees. Fine dining restaurants may require a more formal dress code.
When visiting churches or cathedrals, dress modestly, remove hats, and speak quietly. Photography is generally allowed but avoid using flash during services.
Football (Soccer) — Football is by far the most popular sport, with the national team (Les Bleus) and Ligue 1 clubs drawing passionate support. Rugby is also very popular, especially in the south. Cycling, particularly the Tour de France, is a major national event. Skiing in the Alps and various water sports along the coasts are also common recreational activities.
July 14
Fête Nationale (Bastille Day)
Commemorates the storming of the Bastille and the unity of the French people. Celebrated with military parades (especially in Paris), fireworks, and public festivities across the country.
June 21
Fête de la Musique
An all-day music festival held on the summer solstice, where free concerts and musical performances take place in public spaces throughout cities and towns.
November 11
Jour de l'Armistice (Armistice Day)
Commemorates the end of World War I, with ceremonies and tributes held at war memorials across France.