France Travel Guide: Things to Know About Traveling to France

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What You Need to Know Before Traveling to France: 2026 Pre-Trip Guide  – France is one of the world’s most visited countries for good reason — the food, history, architecture, and landscapes are genuinely extraordinary.

But France also has a distinct culture with specific customs around greetings, dining, and public behavior.

Knowing these in advance makes the difference between feeling welcome and feeling like an oblivious tourist.

This guide covers the practical essentials: entry rules, cultural etiquette, money, safety, laws, and what to expect on the ground.

Once you have the basics sorted, explore the best things to do in France to start building the actual itinerary.

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France Entry Requirements: The Quick Version

US citizens can enter France without a visa for stays up to 90 days.

UK citizens have the same access after Brexit.

EU and EEA nationals have free movement rights and can stay indefinitely.

The 90-day limit applies to the entire Schengen Area — days spent in Germany, Spain, or Italy count toward the same total as days in France.

For a full breakdown covering passport validity rules, ETIAS authorization, UK post-Brexit specifics, long-stay visa categories, and what border officers may ask, see our dedicated visa requirements for France guide.

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Language and Communication in France

French is the official language across metropolitan France.

You do not need to be fluent — but the French respond warmly to visitors who make a genuine effort, even a small one.

Tone and willingness to try matter more than accuracy.

Essential Phrases

These phrases cover most everyday situations:

The most important phrase is Bonjour. French people greet each other at the start of any interaction — in a shop, at a market stall, when addressing someone in the street.

Starting with “Bonjour, s’il vous plaît…” immediately signals basic respect for local custom and transforms most interactions.

Skipping the greeting and launching straight into a request is considered rude.

English Availability

English is widely spoken in Paris, the French Riviera, and at most major tourist attractions.

In smaller towns, rural areas, and local businesses (corner boulangeries, village markets), it is much less common.

Download Google Translate or DeepL with offline French capability before you travel — you will use it.

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French Cultural Etiquette

French culture operates on a set of social codes that are polite rather than rigid, but ignoring them creates friction.

Paris has its own intensity compared to the rest of France — for city-specific rules covering café culture, metro manners, and Parisian social dynamics, the Parisian etiquette guide covers it in detail.

Greetings: The Bise and the Handshake

The French greet people they know with la bise — a light cheek-to-cheek contact (not actually kissing the cheek, but touching cheeks while making a kissing sound in the air).

The number of kisses varies by region: two in Paris, more in parts of the south.

As a visitor, you will not be expected to initiate this.

In a professional context, a firm handshake is standard.

In casual social situations — meeting friends-of-friends at a dinner, for example — la bise is common.

Follow the French person’s lead.

Formal vs Informal: Tu and Vous

French has two forms of “you”: tu (informal, for friends, family, and peers your own age) and vous (formal, for strangers, older people, service staff, and anyone you have not been invited to address informally).

As a visitor, always default to vous.

Switching to tu without being invited to do so can come across as disrespectful, especially with older people or anyone in a service role.

Shopkeepers, servers, and hotel staff are always addressed with vous.

In Shops, Cafés, and Public Spaces

A few points that will prevent friction:

• Enter a shop or café and say “Bonjour” before anything else — before asking for something, before pointing at a product, before speaking English
• Keep your voice at a moderate level in public spaces, on public transport, and in restaurants. Speaking loudly is one of the most reliable ways to be identified as a tourist in France
• Queue properly; skipping or nudging in line draws open irritation
• In museums and churches, keep phones silent and voices low

Dress Code

The French standard for daily dress is more considered than tourist-casual.

No formal code applies at most locations, but gym wear, beachwear, and very casual athleisure are considered inappropriate in restaurants, museums, and most churches.

In religious sites, shoulders and knees should be covered.

Smart casual is appropriate for most bistros and brasseries; gastronomic restaurants expect at minimum collared shirts and closed shoes.

The French aesthetic tends toward clean lines, neutral tones, and understatement rather than prominent logos or loud prints.

You will not be turned away for dressing casually, but you will feel more comfortable and be treated better if you dress with modest care.

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Dining Culture and Restaurants in France

French meals are a structured social experience, not just eating.

Understanding how restaurants work removes most of the friction first-time visitors encounter.

Restaurant Types

Meal Timing

French kitchens operate on a schedule.

Lunch runs from approximately 12:00 to 14:30.

Dinner service starts around 19:30 and most people arrive between 20:00 and 21:00.

Outside these hours — at 15:30 or 18:00, for example — most sit-down restaurants are closed.

Brasseries are the exception and typically serve throughout the day.

If you are hungry outside meal hours, a boulangerie or café is your best option.

Ordering and Table Behavior

• Wait to be seated; do not seat yourself
• Servers in France do not check back repeatedly — the meal pace is unhurried by design
• To get a server’s attention, make eye contact and raise a hand slightly; never snap fingers, wave aggressively, or call out
• Ask for une carafe d’eau for free tap water — entirely normal and accepted everywhere
• Bread is usually brought to the table without being asked; tear it by hand rather than cutting it
• The bill will not arrive until you ask — say “L’addition, s’il vous plaît” when you are ready to leave

Tipping

Service charge (service compris) is included in all restaurant bills by French law.

You are not expected to leave an additional tip.

Rounding up the total by a euro or two as a gesture of appreciation is acceptable and appreciated but entirely optional.

The American convention of 15–20% is not the norm.

The Formule (Prix Fixe Menu)

Almost every restaurant and brasserie offers a formule at lunch: a fixed-price set menu with two or three courses at a substantially lower price than ordering à la carte.

The plat du jour (dish of the day) is prepared fresh and represents the best value in most bistros.

A typical formule du jour in a Paris bistro runs approximately €15–€25 for two courses, with three-course options generally landing between €25–€35 at mid-range establishments — a significantly better deal than ordering à la carte.

In regional cities and smaller towns outside Paris, expect prices to run slightly lower, often €12–€20 for a two-course lunch formule.

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Money, Payments, and Costs

France is a pretty cashless-friendly country these days, but a few euro notes still save you from awkward situations.

Here’s what you need to know before you swipe or tap your way across the country.

Currency and Cards

France uses the euro (€).

Visa and Mastercard are accepted almost everywhere in cities and tourist areas.

American Express has limited acceptance at smaller establishments.

Contactless payment (card and phone) works nearly universally.

Most chip-and-PIN terminals also accept tap payments.

• Cash: Small markets, village bakeries, parking meters in some areas, and loose change for tips work better with cash. Having €50–€100 in cash on hand at any time is a reasonable precaution, especially outside major cities.
• ATMs: Distributeurs (cash machines) are plentiful in cities and common in most towns. Withdraw directly from your card network to avoid third-party fees. Avoid currency exchange booths at airports — the rates are significantly worse than ATM withdrawals.
• Foreign transaction fees: Check whether your card charges foreign transaction fees before traveling. Many travel-specific cards (Chase Sapphire Preferred, Revolut, Starling Bank) waive these entirely.

Tipping Culture at a Glance

Tourist Tax

Most French towns and cities charge a taxe de séjour — a small nightly tourism tax added to your accommodation bill.

The amount depends on the city and accommodation category.

As of 2026, rates typically range from €0.65 to €15.60 per person per night, with budget and unclassified accommodation on the lower end and luxury “palace” hotels at the top.

For most mid-range hotels and holiday rentals, the realistic range visitors encounter is €0.80 to €4.80 per person per night.

Note that some cities, including Paris, have updated their rate structures in 2026, so always check your booking confirmation for the exact amount.

VAT Refund

Non-EU visitors can reclaim a portion of the 20% VAT on purchases at participating retailers above a minimum spend of €100 (inclusive of VAT) in the same store — a threshold that has been in place since January 2021, lowered from the previous €175.

UK citizens are fully eligible for the détaxe scheme post-Brexit, as the UK is now treated as a non-EU country.

Ask for a détaxe form at the point of purchase, complete it, and present it at the airport’s customs desk (look for PABLO terminals at major airports) before departure.

Note that the VAT refund applies only to physical goods for personal use — hotels, restaurants, and tours do not qualify.

For a complete cost breakdown — accommodation tiers, daily food costs, transport options, and how to stretch a budget — see our guide to traveling to France on a budget.

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Getting Around France

France has an exceptional transport network.

The TGV high-speed rail connects Paris to Lyon in approximately 2 hours, to Marseille in 3 hours, and to Bordeaux in 2 hours.

Paris has one of Europe’s most extensive metro systems — 16 lines covering approximately 308 stations across the city and inner suburbs.

Regional trains (TER) connect smaller towns, and intercity coaches (FlixBus, BlaBlaCar Bus) offer budget alternatives.

For a full breakdown covering TGV booking strategy, airport transfers from CDG and Orly, driving requirements, cycling, accessibility, and city-by-city transport options, see the getting around France guide.

Two practical points worth knowing before you go:

• Always validate your transport ticket. On the Paris Metro, tap or swipe your card or ticket at the barrier. On regional buses and trams, validate on board before sitting down. Fare inspectors conduct random checks and issue on-the-spot fines with no exceptions — even if you have a valid, paid ticket that was never validated.
• Driving in France: France drives on the right. Speed cameras are common on national roads. A breathalyzer kit is no longer legally required in your vehicle — the enforcement of the law was suspended indefinitely and the requirement was officially dropped as of 2018, though carrying one is still recommended. Note that radar warning devices and speed camera detectors are illegal in France and can result in a €1,500 fine and confiscation. Tolls apply on autoroutes (motorways); have a credit card or cash ready at péage points.

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Safety and Health in France

 

France is a safe country for tourists overall.

Violent crime targeting visitors is uncommon.

The main urban risks are pickpocketing and opportunistic bag theft in crowded tourist areas.

Where Pickpocketing Happens

The most common locations for tourist pickpocketing:

• Paris Metro, especially on lines 1, 4, and 12 near major tourist stations (Châtelet, Gare du Nord, Opéra, Montmartre)
• The areas immediately surrounding the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame, and Sacré-Cœur
• Busy outdoor markets
• Beaches at Nice and Cannes (bag theft while swimming or leaving items unattended)

Standard precautions: keep bags in front of you in crowds, use an inner pocket or money belt for passport and large cash amounts, and be aware of anyone creating a deliberate distraction near you — that is a common setup for theft.

Use the GetOutTrip AI Travel Safety Advisor for destination-specific safety information tailored to your itinerary.

Emergency Numbers

Pharmacies

French pharmacies are identified by an illuminated green cross and are located on virtually every high street in cities and most towns.

French pharmacists are highly trained and can advise on minor ailments, recommend over-the-counter treatments, and assess whether you need a doctor.

This is an excellent first stop for anything that does not require emergency care.

Most hospital emergency departments (marked Urgences) in major cities have English-speaking staff.

France’s healthcare system is consistently rated among the world’s best.

• EU and EEA travelers: Carry your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) or national health card for access to state healthcare at local rates.
• UK travelers: The EHIC no longer applies post-Brexit. UK residents should carry the Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC), which provides equivalent access to French state healthcare for medically necessary treatment during temporary stays. The GHIC is free to apply for via the NHS website, valid for up to 5 years, and continues to be honored in France with no changes to coverage arrangements as of 2026. Note that the GHIC covers state healthcare only — it does not replace comprehensive travel insurance, which is still recommended for repatriation and private treatment.
• US and other travelers: Travel insurance with medical coverage is strongly recommended. Emergency treatment, hospitalization, or medical evacuation without coverage can cost several thousand euros.

Embassy Emergency Contacts in Paris

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Laws in France Tourists Commonly Overlook

• Ticket validation on public transport. Already mentioned, but worth repeating: always validate. The fine for non-validated tickets is issued on the spot with no discretion.
• Photography and privacy. Taking photographs in public spaces in France is generally permitted, but French privacy law gives individuals a right to their own image. Photographing people in non-crowd situations without their consent can create a legal problem. Ask before photographing individuals in close-up situations.
• The Eiffel Tower by day is in the public domain and free to photograph and use commercially. The Eiffel Tower’s nighttime illumination — the golden lighting, twinkling light show, and beacon — is protected under copyright as a separate artistic work created by lighting designer Pierre Bideau. Since Bideau passed away in 2021, the copyright extends until at least 2091. Personal photography and sharing on personal social media is broadly accepted and not enforced against individuals. However, any commercial or professional use — including blogs, websites, advertising, books, or any revenue-generating platform — requires prior authorization from SETE (the tower’s managing company) and may involve fees. When in doubt, contact SETE at [email protected]. Military installations, border facilities, and some government buildings prohibit photography — look for posted signs.
• Drone operation in France is governed by DGAC regulations aligned with EU standards. As of 2026, tourist and recreational drone pilots must: register on the official AlphaTango platform (alphatango.aviation-civile.gouv.fr) to obtain an operator number that must be displayed on the drone; complete mandatory online theoretical training and pass an exam before flying; stay below 120 meters altitude; always maintain visual line of sight; and never fly over crowds, in no-fly zones (which include Paris city center and areas around airports), or at night. Urban flights are permitted only in a professional framework under strict conditions. Drones weighing 250g or more require registration.
• Drinking age. The legal drinking age is 18. Identification may be requested at bars and shops.
• Smoking. Indoor smoking has been banned in all public spaces since 2007 — this includes all bars, restaurants, cafés, offices, and any enclosed public area. Since July 1, 2025, France extended smoking bans to a range of outdoor spaces where children are present, including public parks and gardens, beaches, bus shelters, and areas surrounding schools, sports facilities, and libraries. Smoking in a prohibited area can result in a fine of €135 up to a maximum of €750.
• Noise and neighbor laws. France has strict noise ordinances, particularly in residential areas after 22:00. Excessive noise from apartments, rentals, or outdoor gatherings can result in police complaints and real consequences for rental properties.

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Connectivity and Technology in France

Staying connected in France is straightforward, but a little planning before you fly saves you from paying painful roaming fees or hunting for a SIM card at midnight in a Paris arrondissement.

Mobile Data

Your home plan’s international roaming may work in France but can be expensive, particularly for US and UK travelers.

For trips of more than a few days, a prepaid French SIM card or eSIM is the most cost-effective option.

Physical SIMs are available at CDG and Orly airports, Relay shops, convenience stores, and supermarkets — though Orange’s physical SIM card is now primarily available through select airport kiosks, with the brand having shifted focus to its eSIM offering.

The main providers:

EU SIM cards still benefit from EU roaming rules (domestic rates in France).

UK SIM cards no longer automatically include EU roaming after Brexit — check your provider’s terms before traveling.

Note that Orange Travel eSIMs explicitly include the UK in their 40+ country coverage zone, making them a solid option for British travelers as well.

WiFi

Free WiFi is available in almost all hotels, most cafés and restaurants, and major public spaces including airports and many town centers.

Rural areas can have limited connectivity.

On public WiFi networks — airports, cafés, stations — avoid accessing banking or sensitive accounts without a VPN, as open networks are not encrypted.

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Weather in France and What to Pack

France’s climate varies by region and season:

• Paris and northern France: Oceanic climate. Rain is possible year-round. Summers are warm (18–25°C / 64–77°F); winters are mild but grey and damp. Light layers, a waterproof jacket, and sturdy shoes are essential.
• Provence and the French Riviera: Mediterranean climate. Hot, dry summers (28–35°C / 82–95°F); mild winters. Sun protection, light clothing, and a layer for evenings.
• French Alps: Alpine climate. Cold winters with heavy snow; mild, pleasant summers ideal for hiking.
• Atlantic coast (Bordeaux, Biarritz, La Rochelle): Windy and cooler than the Riviera; significant swell in autumn and winter.

Universal packing essentials:

• Comfortable walking shoes with real support — French cities have cobblestones and uneven stone surfaces
• A packable waterproof layer regardless of season
• A crossbody bag or small day pack (front-worn in crowds)
• EU power adapter (Type E plug, 230V) for US, UK, and Australian devices
• A photocopy or digital backup of your passport and travel insurance details

For detailed seasonal guidance including festivals, school holiday crowd peaks, and cheapest months to fly and book accommodation, see our best time to visit France guide.

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Regional Differences: France Is Not One Culture

Many visitors arrive treating France as a single cultural experience.

In reality, traveling from Paris to Alsace, Provence, or Brittany means encountering genuinely distinct regional identities, cuisines, dialects, and social norms.

Paris

Paris: Fast-paced, formal, and cosmopolitan.

Parisians are sometimes perceived as cold even by other French people — this is largely the tempo of city life rather than unfriendliness.

Give interactions a day or two to recalibrate your expectations before drawing conclusions.

Northern France

Northern France (Normandy, Brittany, Nord): Maritime climate and more reserved social style.

Strong regional cuisines: Breton crêpes and galettes, Normandy cheese, cider, and calvados, moules-frites along the Channel.

Brittany has a distinct Celtic identity — Breton-language signs and the distinctive black-and-white flag appear throughout.

Southern France

Southern France (Provence, Languedoc, French Riviera): Mediterranean pace — slower, more expressive, outdoor-focused.

Food centers on olive oil, herbs, fish, and fresh vegetables.

People tend to be more openly warm than in northern France.

Summer crowds in famous destinations (Avignon, Carcassonne, Nice seafront) can be intense.

Alsace

Alsace: Strong Germanic influence from its history — half-timbered architecture, choucroute garnie, Flammekueche, and an Alsatian dialect closer to German than French.

The dual cultural identity makes it one of France’s most distinctive regions.

French Alps

French Alps: International in character, especially in ski resorts with large British and Dutch communities.

English is spoken widely.

Summer hiking draws a different crowd from the winter ski season.

For destination-by-destination coverage of every major French region — including what to see, best time to visit each area, and getting there — see our best places to visit in France guide.

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Plan Your France Travel with AI Tools

The GetOutTrip AI Local Etiquette and Culture Guide generates region-specific cultural tips — particularly useful if you are visiting multiple parts of France with different local customs.

Use the AI Itinerary Planner to build a day-by-day France itinerary once you have your travel dates and regions confirmed.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)