Essential Travel Facts
| Capital | Paris |
| Currency | EUR – Euro (€) |
| Time Zone | UTC+1 |
| Language | French |
| Emergency Number | 112 |
| Driving Side | Right side |
| Tap Water | Drinkable ✓ |
| Visa (US) | Visa-free for US citizens |
| Travel Insurance | Recommended |
Electrical & Devices
| Plug Types | Type C, Type E |
| Voltage | 230V |
| Frequency | 50Hz |
| US Travelers | Adapter required |
| Voltage Converter | May be needed for 120V devices |
Need adapter details? See our complete guide: Power Plugs and Outlets in France →
Connectivity
SIM / eSIM Availability
eSIM and physical SIM cards are available in France. eSIM is the most convenient option for travelers with compatible phones.
Internet Speeds
Typical speeds: 30-100 Mbps average
Recommended eSIM Providers
Airalo, Holafly, Orange Holiday, Ubigi
Money & Costs
Average Hotel Prices
$100-300 per night Book on Expedia
Typical Daily Budget
$120-250 (mid-range traveler)
ATM & Cash
ATMs (distributeurs) are common in cities. Major French banks like BNP Paribas, Crédit Agricole, and Société Générale offer good rates. Notify your bank before travel to avoid fraud blocks. Currency exchange offices often have poor rates.
Card Acceptance
Cards are widely accepted. Chip-and-PIN is standard - US magnetic stripe cards may not work at automated kiosks. Contactless ('sans contact') is common for purchases under €50. Small cafes and markets may prefer cash.
Transportation
Major Airports
CDG, ORY, NCE (serving Paris, Nice, Lyon)
Car Rental
Excellent for exploring wine regions, Provence, and the countryside. Toll roads (péages) are expensive but fast. City driving is stressful - avoid in Paris. Manual transmission is standard; request automatic specifically.
Public Transport
TGV high-speed trains connect major cities quickly - Paris to Lyon in 2 hours. Book in advance for best fares. Paris Métro is extensive and cheap. SNCF app is essential for train bookings.
Safety Overview
France is generally safe. Paris metro and tourist areas (Eiffel Tower, Sacré-Cœur, Champs-Élysées) have active pickpocket rings - secure valuables in front pockets or money belts. Avoid scam artists with petitions or 'found' gold rings. Protests and strikes can disrupt transport.
Things to Watch For
Pickpockets operate in Paris metro and tourist spots. Strikes (grèves) can shut down transport with little warning. Check RATP and SNCF for disruptions. August closures affect many businesses.
What to Pack for France
- ✓Scarf or pashmina
Versatile for variable weather and essential for covering shoulders at churches - also adds Parisian style
- ✓Reusable shopping bag
Plastic bags cost money in France - supermarkets and bakeries expect you to bring your own
- ✓Comfortable stylish shoes
The French dress well, even casually - sneakers are fine but skip athletic wear for dinners
- ✓Type C/E power adapter
France uses standard European round two-pin plugs - US and UK plugs won't fit
- ✓French phrasebook or translation app
Attempting French, even poorly, is appreciated and often results in better service
- ✓Light layers and rain jacket
Weather varies by region - Mediterranean south is hot, Paris and north can be rainy year-round
- ✓Wine carrier for checked luggage
You'll want to bring bottles home - padded carriers protect purchases from vineyard visits
Recommended Travel Essentials
Rick Steeves Paris
A throughout guide to Paris with practical tips and cultural insights
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Frequently Asked Questions: France
Do I need a plug adapter for France?
France uses Type C and E outlets - the standard European two-round-pin design. Type E has an additional grounding pin in the socket. A standard European adapter works for both. US and UK plugs are incompatible.
Is tap water safe to drink in France?
Yes, French tap water is safe and high quality. Restaurants legally must provide free tap water ('une carafe d'eau') on request. Mineral water is popular but unnecessary for safety.
Is travel insurance required for France?
Travel insurance is recommended. France has excellent healthcare but costs for non-EU visitors can be substantial. The EHIC/GHIC card provides some coverage for EU citizens. Insurance also covers trip cancellation, important given strike frequency.
What currency is used in France?
France uses the Euro (€). ATMs offer the best exchange rates. Credit cards work widely but small purchases may require cash. Markets and small vendors often prefer cash.
What voltage is used in France?
France uses 230V at 50Hz. US devices (120V) need a converter for older appliances, or may not work at all. Modern phone and laptop chargers handle 100-240V automatically - check the label.
Do US devices work in France?
US plugs won't fit French outlets - you need a Type C/E adapter. For voltage, most modern electronics adjust automatically. Hair dryers, curling irons, and similar heating devices typically won't work without a converter.
What is the emergency number in France?
European emergency number: 112 (works across EU). France-specific: 15 (medical - SAMU), 17 (police), 18 (fire). English may be limited - speak slowly and clearly.
What language is spoken in France?
French is the official language. English is spoken in tourist areas and by younger people, but less common outside Paris. Attempting French, even 'Bonjour' and 'Merci', is appreciated and opens doors.
Do I need a visa for France?
France is part of the Schengen Area. US, UK, Canadian, and Australian citizens can stay 90 days within any 180-day period without a visa. This applies to all 27 Schengen countries combined.