France Destination Guide
This essential guide will help you prepare for an unforgettable journey through the beautiful regions of France.
Essential Travel Information for France
Everything you need to know before your French adventure
Disclaimer: Space is a precious commodity in Europe, especially in its most dense cities, be prepared for smaller hotel rooms. The same goes for bathrooms and elevators, don’t be surprised if they feel cozier than those in the US.
Visa & Entry Requirements
- Passport Validity: Must be valid for at least six months beyond your departure date.
- Return Ticket: Proof of return/onward travel may be required at immigration.
- Health Requirements: No specific vaccinations required for entry from most countries.
Currency & Payments
- Euro (€): Is the official currency. 1 € ≈ 1.08 USD as of 2025.
- ATMs: Widely available in cities and towns. Inform your bank of travel plans.
- Credit Cards: Accepted in most establishments, but keep some cash for small shops or rural areas.
- Tipping: Service is usually included (15% 'service compris'). Additional 5-10% for good service is appreciated.
- Guides: 5-10 EUR per day
- Drivers: 5-10 EUR per day
Mobile & Internet
- SIM Cards: Orange, SFR, and Free Mobile offer tourist packages. Purchase at airports or mobile stores.
- WiFi: Widely available in hotels, cafés, and restaurants. Many cities offer free public WiFi.
- Power Adapters: France uses Type E plugs (round pins with ground). Standard voltage is 230V.
Time Zone
- France follows Central European Time (CET) – UTC +1.
- Central European Summer Time (CEST) – UTC +2 from late March to late October.
- France is 6-9 hours ahead of U.S. depending on time zone and daylight saving time.
Climate & Weather
- Spring (Mar-May): Mild temperatures 8-16°C (46-61°F). Occasional showers.
- Summer (Jun-Aug): Warm and sunny 18-25°C (64-77°F). Mediterranean coast can reach 30°C (86°F).
- Fall (Sep-Nov): Cooler temperatures 9-18°C (48-64°F). Beautiful foliage.
- Winter (Dec-Feb): Cold 3-8°C (37-46°F). Snow in northern regions and mountains.
Emergency Contacts
- European Emergency: 📞 112 (General Emergency)
- Police: 📞 17
- Fire: 📞 18
- Ambulance/Medical: 📞 15
- U.S. Embassy: 📞 +33 1 43 12 22 22
Packing Checklist for France
Use this checklist to ensure you pack everything you need for your French adventure
Travel Documents & Essentials
- Passport (valid for at least 6 months)
- Visa documents (if applicable)
- Flight itinerary & hotel confirmations
- Travel insurance details
- Credit/debit cards
- Euro currency (€)
- International driver's license (if planning to drive)
- Travel wallet or money belt
- Copies of important documents (separate from originals)
- Emergency contact information
Clothing & Accessories
- Versatile, stylish clothes (French style is relatively formal)
- Comfortable walking shoes (cobblestones are common)
- Light jacket or coat (even in summer for evenings)
- Scarf (useful for style and visiting religious sites)
- Umbrella or rain jacket
- Sunglasses & sun hat
- Swimwear (for Mediterranean coast)
- One smart-casual outfit for fine dining
- Daypack or secure crossbody bag
- Laundry bag for dirty clothes
Health & Safety
- Prescription medications (in original packaging)
- Basic first-aid kit
- Pain relievers
- Antacids (after all that rich food)
- Hand sanitizer
- Sunscreen
- Insect repellent (for rural areas in summer)
- Travel-sized toiletries
- Extra contacts/glasses if needed
- Reusable water bottle
Electronics & Gadgets
- Power adapter (Type E - round pins with ground)
- Smartphone & charger
- Camera & charger
- Portable charger/power bank
- Headphones
- E-reader or books for travel days
- Universal adapter (if visiting other countries)
- European SIM card or international plan
- Small flashlight or phone with flashlight
- Outlet splitter (hotels often have limited outlets)
Packing Tips
- Pack light! Many accommodations have stairs and no elevators, especially in historic buildings.
- Bring clothing you can layer, as weather can change quickly, especially in spring and fall.
- Dress like a local: French style is generally neat, classic, and not overly casual.
- Save space for souvenirs and purchases from French boutiques and markets!
Top Destinations & Experiences
Discover the incredible places you'll visit during your journey through France
Paris
The City of Light offers an endless array of iconic landmarks, world-class museums, and charming neighborhoods to explore.
Must-See Attractions:
- Eiffel Tower – Book tickets in advance to avoid lines.
- Louvre Museum – Home to thousands of works including the Mona Lisa.
- Montmartre – Bohemian district with stunning Sacré-Cœur Basilica.
- Seine River Cruise – See major landmarks from the water.
Provence & The French Riviera
Experience the quintessential French countryside with lavender fields, charming villages, and the glamorous Mediterranean coast.
Highlights:
- Aix-en-Provence – Elegant city with beautiful fountains and markets.
- Lavender Fields – Best seen in bloom from mid-June to August.
- Nice – Walk the famous Promenade des Anglais along the sea.
- Saint-Tropez – Glamorous resort town with beautiful beaches.
Loire Valley & Mont Saint-Michel
Discover France's royal past through magnificent châteaux and the iconic island monastery of Mont Saint-Michel.
Highlights:
- Château de Chenonceau – The 'Ladies' Castle' spanning the River Cher.
- Château de Chambord – Largest château with distinctive French Renaissance architecture.
- Mont Saint-Michel – Medieval abbey on a rocky islet, accessible at low tide.
- Wine Tasting – Sample local whites including Sancerre and Vouvray.
Must-Try French Cuisine
French gastronomy is world-renowned for good reason. Here are some essential culinary experiences to seek out during your trip:
Croissant
Buttery, flaky pastry perfect for breakfast with coffee.
Cheese Plate
Try Camembert, Brie, Roquefort, and Comté varieties.
Wine
From Bordeaux reds to Champagne and Loire Valley whites.
Baguette
Fresh, crusty bread - a staple of French daily life.
Escargot
Snails cooked with garlic, butter and parsley.
Coq au Vin
Chicken braised with wine, mushrooms and bacon.
Local Culture & Responsible Travel
Tips for respectful travel and cultural awareness during your adventure
Cultural Etiquette
- Greetings: Begin interactions with 'Bonjour' (hello) or 'Bonsoir' (good evening). A handshake is the typical greeting.
- Basic French: Learning a few phrases is appreciated - 'Merci' (thank you), 'S'il vous plaît' (please), 'Excusez-moi' (excuse me).
- Dining Etiquette: Keep hands visible on the table, not in your lap. Wait for the host to say 'Bon appétit' before eating.
- Volume: The French value quieter conversations, especially in public places and restaurants.
- Personal Space: The French are more formal about personal space compared to Americans.
Responsible Tourism
- Respect Historic Sites: Follow rules at monuments and museums. Many places prohibit flash photography.
- Environmental Awareness: France is increasingly eco-conscious. Use reusable bags and water bottles.
- Public Transportation: Use France's excellent train and public transit systems to reduce your carbon footprint.
- Support Local: Shop at local markets and small businesses rather than international chains.
- Water Conservation: Be mindful of water usage, especially in southern regions during summer.
⚠️ Important Safety Note
While France is generally safe for tourists, be alert for pickpockets in crowded tourist areas, particularly in Paris. Keep valuables secure and be aware of common scams targeting tourists at major attractions.
Final Travel Tips
- Learn dining vocabulary and 'table French' to enhance your culinary experience.
- Museums are often closed on Mondays or Tuesdays - check opening hours in advance.
- Many shops close on Sundays and for lunch between 12:00-14:00, especially in smaller towns.
- The Paris Museum Pass can save money if you plan to visit multiple attractions.
- Validate train and metro tickets before boarding to avoid fines.
- When visiting in summer, plan indoor activities during midday heat.
Luggage Restrictions
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