Start your French adventure with confidence, knowing you have all the essential information at your fingertips.
If you're an EU citizen, a valid passport or ID card is your ticket to hassle-free entry. For those coming from outside the Schengen Area, you might need a short-stay visa, which lets you stay for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
Around fifty countries are currently exempt from needing this visa. For everyone else, the visa application process usually starts three to six months before your trip, depending on where you're applying from. After you submit your application, expect a response within 10 to 15 days, but keep in mind that this timeline can vary. The visa fee is €80 for anyone over 12, €40 for children aged 6 to 12, and free for kids under six. Spouses of French nationals and family members of EU/Schengen/Swiss citizens are also exempt from the fee.
For the latest information on visa requirements, please visit: https://france-visas.gouv.fr
In addition to a visa (if needed), you'll need valid travel insurance covering medical expenses, repatriation, and civil liability. Your insurance should cover your entire stay in the Schengen Area. Don't forget to fill out the required forms, bring a recent passport photo, and provide proof of your travel plans and accommodation.
Remember, if you're visiting multiple Schengen countries, you only need one visa – apply at the consulate of your first destination. And just in case things don't go as planned, make sure your travel expenses are refundable.
For EU citizens, we recommend getting a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) before your trip. While it's not required, it can help cover medical expenses in case of illness or accidents.
No matter where you're from, it's always a good idea to get travel insurance. This can cover medical expenses, repatriation costs, lost luggage, and even provide civil liability protection. It's better to be safe than sorry when travelling abroad!
Staying safe in France is largely about common sense. Exercise caution in larger cities, and keep valuables out of sight and off tables when enjoying outdoor cafes. Remember, the best help is often close at hand, so if problems arise, don't hesitate to talk to local contacts, your tour operator representative, or hotel management.
Specific emergency numbers are:
The official currency in France is the Euro (€). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most establishments, but it's always wise to carry some cash for smaller shops, markets, and rural areas. ATMs are readily available throughout the country.
As for budgeting, the cost of your trip will depend on your travel style and preferences. Here's a rough estimate of average daily expenses:
Tipping customs in France can be a bit confusing. A good rule of thumb is to round up your drink bills and leave a few euros after meals. For museum and tour guides, a tip of around 10% is expected, while taxi drivers typically receive 5-10%. To simplify matters, consider using apps like Tipping Guide to determine appropriate amounts, or Tip N Split to easily calculate and divide tips amongst your group.
To call within France, dial +33. Consider purchasing a roaming package from your mobile provider, or utilize apps like WhatsApp, Signal or Telegram which rely on Wi-Fi for calls and messages, saving you money.
France offers a wide array of transportation options to suit every traveller's needs and budget.
Flights. Several international airports serve major cities like Paris, Nice, Lyon, and Marseille. For domestic travel, Air France and other airlines offer numerous connections between cities.
Train. France boasts an extensive rail network, including the high-speed TGV, connecting major cities and towns across the country. Regional trains offer a more leisurely way to explore the countryside.
Buses. Long-distance buses provide an economical alternative to trains, with routes serving both urban and rural destinations.
Public Transportation. Cities like Paris, Lyon, and Marseille have comprehensive public transportation systems, including metro, buses, and trams. Consider purchasing a travel pass for unlimited use during your stay.
Car Rentals. Renting a car allows for the most flexibility, especially if you plan to explore off-the-beaten-path areas. Numerous car rental companies operate in France, offering a variety of vehicles to choose from.
While you won't need your passport at all times, it's wise to carry a photo ID, as French police can request it. Your passport is essential for border crossings and may be needed for hotel check-ins. If you don't have your physical passport, having a digital scan available can be helpful.
Be prepared for varying opening hours, especially in rural areas. Many shops, restaurants, and attractions close from Sunday to Tuesday. Smaller shops and post offices often shut down for lunch, regardless of the day. Keep seasonality in mind, as the French take holidays seriously. Roads, especially those heading south, can become congested during school holidays. Outside of peak travel seasons, you might find numerous accommodations, restaurants, and attractions closed, even on weekdays.
