Practical Information for visiting France

France uses the euro (€). Card payment is close to universal, including contactless for small amounts, and many bakeries and markets that were cash-only a few years ago now take cards. Carrying a small amount of cash is still worth it for rural markets and some village businesses.

ATMs are widespread; withdrawing from a bank machine gives a better rate than a bureau de change. Service is included by law in restaurant prices — the phrase is service compris — so tipping is genuinely optional. Rounding up or leaving a couple of euros for good service is normal; the percentages expected in North America are not.

Coverage for mobile networks is good nationwide and strong on the rail network, thinning in mountain valleys and parts of the central plateau. EU roaming rules mean European visitors use their own plans at no extra cost; others should consider a local SIM or eSIM, which are cheap and easy to buy.

Wi-fi is standard in hotels and cafes and free on many TGV services. Public transport ticketing is increasingly contactless, and most regional networks now accept a bank card directly at the barrier.

France is a safe country to visit by most measures -- violent crime against travelers is rare. The practical risks visitors actually encounter are almost entirely petty and preventable.

• Pickpocketing is the most common issue, concentrated on crowded public transport and around major sights -- the Paris Métro (especially Line 1 near major tourist stops), the area around the Eiffel Tower, Montmartre, and the RER B train to/from the airports see the most reports. Keep bags zipped and worn in front on crowded transit.
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• Common scams worth recognizing: the "gold ring" or "petition" distraction scams near major Paris landmarks, unofficial "friendship bracelet" tie-ons at Sacré-Cœur, and unlicensed taxi drivers at airports quoting flat fares well above the metered rate.
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• Car break-ins targeting visible luggage are a known risk at highway rest stops and some coastal parking areas, particularly in the south -- never leave valuables visible in a parked car.
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• Strikes and protests are a genuine, recurring part of French public life and can disrupt trains, flights, and city transport with little notice -- checking current strike notices (especially around SNCF and Paris transit) before a trip is worth the five minutes it takes.
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• Emergency number: 112 works free of charge from any phone anywhere in France (and the rest of the EU) and connects to police, fire, or medical services.

No vaccinations are required and tap water is safe to drink throughout. Standards of care are high, and pharmacies — marked by a green cross — are numerous and can advise on minor problems directly, with a rota covering nights and Sundays posted in the window.

EU visitors should carry a European Health Insurance Card and UK visitors a GHIC; both give access to the state system on the same terms as residents, which usually means paying up front and reclaiming. Travel insurance is still sensible, particularly for winter sports, where mountain rescue and repatriation are the expensive scenarios.

Greet people before transacting — see the language note; it is the single most useful piece of etiquette in the country. Dress modestly in churches, and note that covering the face in public spaces is prohibited by law.

Smoking is banned indoors in public places, including bars and restaurants, though terraces are exempt and heavily used. Many cities operate low-emission zones requiring a Crit’Air sticker on the windscreen, including hire cars, and driving in without one risks a fine.

Drinking alcohol in public is not generally illegal but is restricted in some city centres. Photographing people without consent is treated more seriously here than in many countries, French law giving individuals rights over their own image.

112 is the European emergency number and works throughout France, with English-speaking operators. Direct lines are also in use and are often faster: 15 for medical emergencies (SAMU), 17 for police and 18 for the fire service, who also handle many medical call-outs.

114 takes emergency contact by SMS or fax for deaf and hard-of-hearing callers. In the mountains, rescue is coordinated through the same numbers; give an altitude and a named piste, refuge or valley where you can.