France Travel Guide

France

Airports

30+ Paris CDG, Nice, Marseille

Visa

EU residents, US, UK citizens do not require a visa. Find your country here. Note that after obtaining a visa to France, you can freely travel throughout the EU

Currency

10€ ≈ £8 / $ 10.5

Cash

Not needed

Languages

French

Plugs

Type C, E, F / 220 V

When to go

Best months to visit

Any

Worst months to visit

None

Weather by month

°C °F

5°C

January

6°C

February

9°C

March

11°C

April

15°C

May

18°C

June

21°C

July

20°C

August

17°C

September

13°C

October

9°C

November

6°C

December

Getting around

Uber

Widely available

Car rental

Highly recommended

Public transportation

France has a comprehensive and efficient public transportation:
Urban Areas: Cities like Paris, Lyon, and Marseille have extensive networks of metros, buses, and trams. Paris’s RATP system includes the metro, RER trains, and buses, with reloadable Navigo cards for easy access. Trams are common in cities such as Strasbourg and Bordeaux, offering eco-friendly travel options.
Intercity Travel: High-speed trains (TGV) connect major cities like Paris, Lyon, and Marseille in a matter of hours. Regional trains (TER) link smaller towns, while Ouigo offers budget-friendly alternatives.
Rural Areas: Public transportation in rural regions can be limited, with buses and local trains connecting villages to nearby towns. Renting a car is often the most practical option for remote areas.

Safety tips

Stay Vigilant Against Pickpocketing: Popular tourist spots like the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, and public transport, particularly the Paris metro, are hotspots for pickpockets. Keep valuables secure and avoid carrying large sums of cash.
Beware of Scams: Be cautious of overly friendly individuals or unofficial "helpers" offering assistance at ATMs or tourist sites. Scams targeting tourists are common in major cities.
Follow Traffic Rules: France has strict driving laws, including mandatory seatbelts and speed limits. Speeding fines can be substantial and mailed to foreign drivers.
Avoid Unsafe Areas at Night: While most parts of cities are safe, some neighborhoods in Paris and Marseille are best avoided after dark.
Respect Local Customs and Strikes: Strikes, especially in transport, can disrupt plans. Stay informed and have backup travel arrangements.
Emergency Numbers: Dial 112 for emergencies. For non-urgent police matters, contact 17.
Watch for Cyclists and Scooters: In urban areas, shared roads and sidewalks often include cyclists and scooters. Stay alert to avoid accidents.

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France