Europe · Destination guide
France
Capital: Paris
🛂Visa requirements
💳Money & payments
Cards: Cards widely accepted everywhere except small rural markets and some traditional boulangeries.
ATMs: CIC, Crédit Agricole, and BNP Paribas ATMs are most reliable for foreign cards with lowest fees. Avoid Euronet ATMs (high fees).
Tipping
Service is included in restaurant bills (service compris) — rounding up slightly (€1–2) is appreciated but not expected. Taxis: round up to the nearest euro.
💬Language
French
Widely spoken in Paris and major tourist areas. Making an effort to speak French — even just 'Bonjour' and 'Merci' — is warmly received.
Useful phrases
- ·Bonjour — Hello (use this every time you enter a shop)
- ·Merci — Thank you
- ·L'addition, s'il vous plaît — The bill, please
- ·Parlez-vous anglais? — Do you speak English?
🔌Electricity & plugs
Type C round plugs also work in French sockets. UK visitors need an adapter.
🤝Local customs & etiquette
- 1.Always greet with 'Bonjour' when entering a shop or restaurant — not doing so is considered rude.
- 2.Meals are social occasions. Eating on the go or rushing a meal is frowned upon.
- 3.Dress smartly when visiting churches and cathedrals — knees and shoulders covered.
- 4.The French value personal space in conversation — maintain appropriate distance.
- 5.Sundays and public holidays: many smaller shops close. Larger supermarkets may have reduced hours.
📶SIM cards & connectivity
Local SIM: Orange, SFR, and Free Mobile are the major operators. SIM cards available at airport and phone shops. EU visitors: roaming included at no extra cost.
WiFi: Free WiFi widely available in cafés, hotels, and public spaces. The Paris Metro has WiFi at most stations.
🛡️Safety
Generally safe. In Paris, be aware of pickpockets around the Eiffel Tower, Sacré-Cœur, and on the Metro. Keep bags closed and in front.
💉Health
No vaccinations required. Tap water safe. EU visitors: use your EHIC/GHIC for medical care.
🚨Emergency numbers
police
17
ambulance
15
fire
18
eu emergency
112
🚗Driving
🚆 Getting to the circuit in France
Train, shuttle, and race day transport guide
Explore France