France travel FAQ: 25 common questions answered

France sits in the Schengen area, so one short-stay visa or visa-free entry covers France and most neighbouring countries. The 90/180 rule counts every day you spend anywhere in Schengen, not just France. Border officers can ask for proof of onward travel, accommodation and enough money for the stay, so keep bookings handy on your phone.

Cards work in almost every shop, café and ticket machine, and contactless is the norm. Small markets, rural bakeries and some taxis still prefer cash, so carry €20–50 in notes. Tipping is not expected: service is included by law, and rounding up or leaving 5–10% for good service is enough. Tax refunds on larger purchases are available at the airport for non-EU residents.

France is a low-risk country for violent crime, but pickpocketing is common in Paris, Marseille, Nice and on the metro and RER lines. Keep phones and wallets out of back pockets, and be wary of distraction tricks near major stations and tourist sights. Terrorism alerts remain in place, so expect bag checks at stations, museums and large events. In an emergency call 112, or 114 by text if you cannot speak.

The TGV network links Paris to Lyon, Marseille, Bordeaux, Strasbourg and Lille in two to four hours, and booking 4–8 weeks ahead usually cuts the fare sharply. Regional trains and buses fill the gaps. Driving is on the right with tolls on most autoroutes; a car is worth it in Provence, the Dordogne and the Alps, less so in Paris. City metros and trams are cheap and frequent, with day passes in most cities.

Lunch is the value meal: many restaurants run a fixed-price menu du jour at midday that costs far less than the same kitchen at dinner. Bistros serve from about 12:00 to 14:00 and 19:30 to 22:00; outside those windows you are limited to bakeries, cafés and brasseries. Vegetarian and vegan options exist in cities but are thinner in small towns, so plan ahead. Tap water is free to ask for in any restaurant.

Spring (April–June) and early autumn (September–October) give mild weather and thinner crowds in Paris, the Loire and Provence. July and August are hot in the south and busy everywhere, with many small shops closed in August. Winter is cold and grey in the north but good for Alsace Christmas markets and for skiing in the Alps from December to March. The Riviera stays mild year-round.

No vaccinations are required for France. Pharmacies are marked with a green cross and can advise on minor problems; for anything serious, go to a hospital emergency department (urgences) or call 15. EU, UK and some other visitors can use the public system with the right card or insurance, but most travellers should carry travel medical insurance. Bring enough of any prescription medicine in its original packaging.