Basics
How do I get to France?
Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG) is the country's main hub, welcoming direct flights from cities like New York, Los Angeles, London, Dubai, and Tokyo. Other key airports include Paris Orly (ORY), Lyon-Saint Exupéry (LYS), Nice Côte d'Azur (NCE), and Marseille Provence (MRS), which also receive international flights.
Major airlines serving France include Air France, Delta, United, American Airlines, British Airways, Lufthansa, and Emirates. Budget carriers like Ryanair, easyJet, and Vueling offer affordable options from within Europe, while French airline Transavia provides low-cost routes within the country and elsewhere. If you're arriving from the UK, the Eurostar train is a convenient alternative, taking just over two hours from London to Paris.
How do I get around France?
Getting around France is easy, with its extensive high-speed train system (TGV), which connects cities like Paris, Lyon, Marseille, Bordeaux, and Nice in just a few hours. Regional trains (TER) and intercity services make it convenient to explore smaller towns and the countryside. If you're planning to visit multiple destinations, consider purchasing a rail pass.
Renting a car is a great option for more flexibility, especially for exploring rural regions like Provence, the Loire Valley, and Normandy. France's highways are well-maintained, though toll roads can add to travel costs. Within cities, public transportation is efficient—Paris has one of the world's best metro systems, and most major cities offer trams and buses. Rideshare apps like Uber and Bolt are available in urban areas, and cycling is popular in bike-friendly cities like Bordeaux and Strasbourg.
I don't speak French. Can I get around on my own?
English is commonly spoken in popular urban areas, especially in Paris and other major cities. In smaller towns, French will be more prevalent, so learning a few basic phrases may be helpful.
What's the currency in France?
The currency in France is the euro (EUR).
Is France expensive?
France is a slightly more expensive destination to visit compared to other European countries. Outside of peak travel season (summer), midrange 3-star hotel options average around EUR 100 per night. You can expect to pay nearly double during peak season, and it's generally safe to assume Paris and larger cities are more costly. There's a lot of variability when it comes to renting a vehicle, though, on average, it can set you back EUR 80 to well over EUR 250 per day. Similarly, depending on the venue, meal, and region, dining out at a casual café/restaurant can run EUR 12-40, while a more upscale space can start around EUR 40-70 per person.
What time zone is France in?
France operates on Central European Time (CET), UTC+1, with daylight saving time in effect from the last Sunday in March to the last Sunday in October (UTC+2).
How big is France?
France, including the territorial collectivity of Corsica, is the largest country in Western Europe, at 211,209 square miles (547,030 sq km), making it about the size of Texas. Bordering eight countries, the nation stretches around 598 miles (962 km) from north to south and about the same from east to west, with over half its boundary being coastline, touching the North Sea, the English Channel, the Atlantic Ocean, and the Mediterranean.
How many days should I spend in France?
The ideal length of a trip to France depends on your interests and travel pace, but most travelers should plan on spending around 10 days. This gives you enough time to explore 1-3 regions (see this circuit that divides your time between Paris, Normandy, and the Loire Valley) or focus on one area and cover a number of places at a faster click (this Provence road trip covers six destinations). A week is enough time to check out Paris and a highlight of a region or two, like on this Bordeaux, Amboise, and Paris trip.
If you have two weeks or more, you can cover that much more ground, up to at least six destinations, including Paris (you can hike in the French Alps with this option!). Here's more on how many days to spend in France.
What's the weather like in France year-round?
Overall, the weather in France varies significantly by region and season, with the Mediterranean coast being warmer and sunnier, while the northern and mountainous areas experience more rain and cold.
Spring (March to May)
The weather is mild, and the landscapes blossom (particularly in Provence and the Loire Valley). Paris and the northern regions can be cool and rainy, while the south enjoys warmer, sunnier days. Temperatures range from 50°F to 68°F (10°C to 20°C).
Summer (June to August)
The south tends to be sunny and dry, while the northern parts remain cooler and may experience more rain. Temperatures range from 68°F to 86°F (20°C to 30°C) in most regions, though it can exceed 95°F (35°C) in southern areas like Provence or the French Riviera.
Fall (September to November)
Fall has mild to cool weather, ranging from 50°F to 68°F (10°C to 20°C). The southern regions remain warm, while the north and higher altitudes can become cooler. Rain is more frequent, especially in the west and mountains. Fall foliage is particularly beautiful in regions like the Loire Valley and Burgundy.
Winter (December to February)
Winters can be cold, particularly in the north and east, where temperatures can drop to 32°F (0°C) or lower. Snow is common, especially in the Alps and mountainous regions. Paris and coastal areas like Nice tend to have milder winters with temperatures between 41°F and 50°F (5°C and 10°C). The ski season in the Alps and Pyrenees peaks during winter, attracting visitors for snow sports.
Before traveling, check the forecast for specific destinations and pack accordingly for each region's unique climate. For more information, see Best Time of Year to Visit France.
Is France a family-friendly destination?
France is highly family-friendly, with a host of kid-centric experiences available. Cities like Paris offer iconic attractions such as the Eiffel Tower and Disneyland Paris, interactive museums like the Cité des Sciences, and tours designed with kids in mind, like a treasure hunt at the Louvre. Elsewhere, the French countryside provides family fun, from exploring castles in the Loire Valley to enjoying the beaches of the French Riviera and northern France.
The country's infrastructure also supports family travel, with stroller-friendly public transport (and discounted rates), child discounts at many attractions, and plenty of parks and green spaces. Restaurants are generally welcoming to children and often provide kid-friendly menus. Check out these family-oriented itinerary ideas and content.
Cash & Credit Cards
Should I have cash on me when traveling around in France?
While credit cards are accepted in most places, smaller restaurants, cafés, bakeries, and local markets may prefer cash, especially in rural areas, and for small purchases (there could be a EUR 5-10 minimum purchase value or so). ATMs are widely available, so you can easily take out euros when needed.
Can I use my credit cards in France?
Major credit cards like Visa and Mastercard are commonly used, and while American Express is also accepted, it's less common. Chip-and-PIN cards are the norm, so ensure you know your card's PIN. While cash isn't often necessary, it's wise to have a small amount of euros on hand for emergencies or smaller vendors that may not accept cards. It's also a good idea to inform your bank of your travel plans to avoid any unforeseen issues.
Tipping
Is there a tipping culture in France? How much should I tip in France?
Tipping is more understated in France than in the US. It's seen as a polite way of acknowledging good service, so while the practice exists, it's in no way an obligation. What's more, service charges (service compris) are typically included in hospitality industry-related bills, so leaving a small extra tip is at your discretion.
That said, leaving small change at cafés and casual eateries or rounding up to the nearest euro is common, as is leaving 5-10% at more upscale establishments if the service is particularly good. Similarly, rounding up the fare is standard when paying taxi drivers. For tours, while it's not expected, if you enjoyed your guide/driver, consider tipping a few euros or around 10% of the tour cost.
Food & Drink
What's the food like in France?
France is known for its high-quality, seasonal ingredients and traditional dishes that vary by region, such as crepes from Brittany or tarte flambée from Alsace. Common breakfast staples include baguettes, croissants, and pastries like pain au chocolat. Cheese is a celebrated part of French cuisine, with hundreds of varieties, such as Brie, Camembert, and Roquefort, often served alongside fresh bread or as part of a meal.
Classic dishes include coq au vin (chicken braised in wine), beef bourguignon, ratatouille, and bouillabaisse (a seafood stew popular in the south). In coastal areas, seafood is prevalent, while the interior regions might feature more hearty, meat-based dishes like cassoulet, a slow-cooked casserole of white beans and pork. Café culture is vibrant, where people enjoy espressos (un café) and lattes (café crème), and simple meals like croque monsieur (grilled ham and cheese). For dessert, staples include crème brûlée, tarte Tatin, and macarons.
What can I expect to pay for a meal or drink?
In France, meal and drink prices vary by establishment and location. At cafés and bistros, expect to pay around EUR 12-20 for simple meals like salads or croque monsieur, while a coffee costs about EUR 2-3. Midrange restaurants typically charge EUR 25-50 per person for a three-course meal, with a glass of wine costing EUR 4-6. High-end dining, such as at Michelin-starred restaurants, can range from EUR 70-150 per person. Budget-friendly options include street food and baked items like baguette sandwiches or crepes for EUR 3-7.
Drinks vary, with a beer at a bar costing EUR 5-7 and cocktails priced at about EUR 8-15. Prices can be higher in popular areas like Paris, while smaller towns often offer more affordable options.
How easy is it to travel in France with dietary restrictions?
France has become increasingly accommodating to various dietary restrictions, especially in larger cities like Paris. Many restaurants now offer vegetarian and vegan options, with plant-based dining becoming more popular and visible on menus. Gluten-free choices are also available, particularly in urban areas and specialized bakeries. For those with food allergies or specific dietary needs, many restaurants are willing to accommodate requests, but language barriers can occasionally pose challenges.
Learning a few key phrases in French, such as Je suis allergique à... (I am allergic to) or Est-ce que vous avez des plats sans…gluten/produits laitiers? (Do you have dishes without…gluten/dairy?), can be helpful. However, finding specific dietary accommodations may be more challenging in smaller towns and more traditional regions, as French cuisine often centers around meat, cheese, and bread. Still, health-focused and organic food stores often carry products catering to various restrictions, including dairy-free, gluten-free, and plant-based items.
Is the water safe to drink in France?
Tap water in France is safe to drink. Although many people still prefer bottled water, it's not necessary unless you're in a very rural area.
What kind of hours are restaurants open?
Typical restaurant hours in France vary but follow certain patterns. Lunch service generally starts around noon and ends by 2:30 pm. Many restaurants close after lunch and reopen later for dinner service, though major cities, especially those catering to foreign visitors, may stay open all day. Dinner hours typically begin around 7:00 pm and last until 10:00 pm or later, especially in larger cities. Note that on Sundays, many restaurants may be closed or have reduced hours, depending on the region.
Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.
Packing
What essential items should I pack for a trip to France?
When packing for a trip to France, it's essential to consider the season and activities planned. Bring comfortable, versatile clothing, and include layers such as lightweight sweaters, scarves, or jackets for unpredictable weather, especially in spring and fall. Weather-appropriate outerwear, like a warm coat for winter or a light jacket for cool summer evenings, is also important. Comfortable shoes for walking are a must, along with dressier shoes for dining out. Pack accessories like an umbrella or raincoat for rainy days, sunglasses and a hat for sunny weather, and sunscreen and a reusable water bottle are useful.
Do I need an electrical adapter/converter?
If you're traveling to France from the US, you'll need an adapter and possibly a voltage converter, depending on your devices. France uses Europlug sockets, types "C" and "F," which have two round prongs and supply a different voltage (230 V/50 Hz) than North America (110 V/60 Hz).
Most modern electronic devices (like phones, laptops, and cameras) are dual-voltage; they can handle both 120 volts and 230 volts. However, it's important to check the power label on your appliance; if it only supports 120 volts, you'll need a converter to use it safely in France.
I'm traveling with kids. Do I need to pack a child seat?
If you're renting a car, French law requires children under 4'5" (135 cm) and less than 10 years old to use an appropriate car seat or booster. While you can bring your own (make sure it meets French safety standards, which may differ from US standards), many car rental agencies offer child seats for an additional fee, though it's best to reserve the seat in advance to ensure availability. Alternatively, if you're using public transportation or taxis, child seats are not legally required.
Safety
Is France a safe place to travel?
France is generally a safe place to travel, with well-developed infrastructure, low violent crime rates, and a strong police presence in major cities and highly-visited areas. However, like in any popular destination, petty crimes such as pickpocketing can occur, particularly in crowded areas like public transit, markets, and popular landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre. Illegal taxis are an issue, too, charging more than a fair rate. Stay aware of your surroundings and keep valuables secure to help minimize risk.
Public transportation is safe, though travelers should be cautious of scams or distraction tactics in busy metro stations. In recent years, protests and strikes have occasionally disrupted travel, but they're usually well-organized and avoid tourist-heavy areas (it's a good idea to monitor local media ahead of your trip). Terrorism remains a threat in France (particularly Paris), and while there are countermeasures to ensure the public's safety, you might like to use an online translator to learn more about the threat via the French Ministry of the Interior.
What are the natural risks I need to be aware of?
Heat waves can occur in the summer, where cities and regions like Paris and Provence are particularly affected, with temperatures sometimes exceeding 100°F (38°C). Flooding is another concern (mainly in the fall and winter), affecting areas along the Seine, Loire, and Rhône rivers. Coastal regions, specifically in the southwest, can experience strong waves and rip currents, so it's essential to follow lifeguard and/or flag warnings when visiting the beach (green is safe, exercise precaution when you see yellow, and stay out of the water when you see red or purple).
In the mountains, including the Alps and the Pyrenees, risks include avalanches in winter and sudden weather changes year-round for hikers. Travelers exploring rural or forested areas from late spring to early fall should also be aware of tick-borne diseases like Lyme disease.
Are solo female travelers safe in France?
France is generally safe for solo female visitors, though with any global destination, it's best to have your wits about you. Stay aware of your surroundings, avoid poorly lit areas, use ride-hailing apps like Uber at night, and secure your belongings to help minimize any risks. While street harassment can sometimes be an issue, particularly in busy urban areas, it can often be avoided by ignoring unwanted attention. French culture is generally respectful of solo travelers, and many women report feeling comfortable exploring independently.
Is France an inclusive destination for LGBTQIA+ travelers?
Yes, France is widely regarded as an inclusive and LGBTQIA+-friendly destination. It has strong legal protections, including antidiscrimination laws and same-sex marriage, which have been legal since 2013. Cities like Paris, Lyon, and Nice have vibrant LGBTQIA+ communities, with numerous queer-friendly bars, clubs, and cultural events. Paris, in particular, has a well-known LGBTQIA+ district in Le Marais and hosts one of Europe's largest Pride parades.
In general, public attitudes toward LGBTQIA+ travelers are accepting, and displays of affection are unlikely to attract negative attention, especially in urban areas. However, more conservative attitudes may persist in some rural regions. That said, LGBTQIA+ travelers can feel safe and welcome throughout most of the country, making France a top choice for queer-friendly travel.
Staying in Touch
How can I use my phone in France?
The easiest way to use your phone in France is to buy an eSIM before you arrive (if you don't already have an international roaming package from your current provider). First, check whether your phone can support an eSIM. You can find a comprehensive list of devices that support eSIMS here or call your provider.
Can I buy a local SIM card in France?
If your phone is unlocked, you can readily buy a local SIM card upon arrival. You can find SIM cards at major airports, train stations, mobile carrier stores, and book and electronics shops. Some of the main mobile service providers in France include Orange, SFR, Bouygues Telecom, and Free Mobile, all offering prepaid SIM cards.
To buy a SIM card, you'll need to provide identification (such as your passport). Most plans allow you to top up with credit or purchase data packages based on your needs. It's often cheaper and more convenient than relying on roaming services from your home country.
Is the WiFi reliable in France?
WiFi is widely available in hotels, cafés, and public spaces. However, coverage may be limited in remote areas, so a local SIM card with data is recommended if you need continuous internet access.
Etiquette
Are there any etiquette rules for France?
A little cultural awareness goes a long way in France. Greetings are important—a polite bonjour (hello) when entering shops, restaurants, or starting conversations is expected (as is saying goodbye and thank you), and failing to do so is seen as rude. When dining, table manners matter—keep your hands on the table (but not elbows nor cellphones), don't rush meals, never expect ice, and avoid asking for substitutions or customizations at restaurants, as French cuisine is taken very seriously.
In public, keep voices low and dress neatly (avoid athleisure and flip-flops). Lastly, when shopping, handling items without asking in smaller boutiques can be frowned upon, and never haggle—if you're looking for a deal, visit France during the twice-annual les soldes season (January-February and June-July).
What's the proper etiquette when visiting religious sites in France?
When visiting religious sites in France, dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees, avoid wearing hats inside, and speak quietly, keeping conversations minimal and phones silenced. Follow any photography rules, as flash or photos may be prohibited, and avoid disrupting services—observe from a distance without interfering. Don't touch altars or sacred objects, and respect signs indicating restricted areas. Making a small donation, while not mandatory, is appreciated. Be mindful of local customs, such as lighting a candle, and follow the actions of others if appropriate.
Entry Requirements
Do I need a visa to visit France?
For travelers from the United States, Canada, the UK, Australia, and most EU countries, a visa isn't required for stays under 90 days (and within a 180-day period of visiting any Schengen country). That said, starting mid-2025, non-EU, visa-exempt travelers need to apply for an ETIAS before traveling, which isn't a visa but an electronic travel authorization.
If you're from a country that requires a Schengen entry visa, you'll need to apply for a short-term Schengen visa before your trip. Before traveling, it's a good idea to check the latest requirements with the French consulate or embassy in your country.
Do I need vaccinations to visit France?
No specific vaccinations are required for travelers from the US to enter France, but it's wise to stay current with routine vaccinations. You can always ask your doctor and/or check your government's recommendation for vaccination requirements in France.
Travelers with Disabilities
I have a disability. Is France accessibility friendly?
France is improving accessibility, especially in major cities and popular destinations. Public transit, modern hotels with adapted facilities, restaurants, and museums or cultural sites are generally equipped with ramps and elevators (though note not even the Paris Metro is fully accessible; many stations lack elevators). However, due to France's many historic sites, medieval villages, cobblestone streets, and older buildings, accessibility can pose challenges. Plan ahead and use resources like “Handicap.fr" or similar.