Travelling in France

Key info & facts

Aerial view of a beach with clear blue water, lined with sun loungers and umbrellas, adjacent to a coastal city with buildings and palm trees.

  • Capital: Paris

  • Official Language: French

  • Population: Approximately 68 million (2023)

  • Currency: Euro (€)

  • Visa Requirements: Check France-Visas for details (non-EU)

  • Main Religion: Predominantly Catholic, though France is a secular state

  • Time Zone: GMT+1 (Central European Time)

  • Electric Plug Types: Types C and E (230V supply)

  • Driving: Drive on the right-hand side of the road

  • Emergency Number: 112 (works across the EU)

  • Public Transport: Trains are the number 1 mode of transport in France. Check France.fr for details

  • Administrative Regions: 18 regions, including 13 metropolitan and 5 overseas

  • Dialling Code: +33

  • Water is free: You can order a carafe (jug) of tap water.

 

Ultimate Guide to Things to do & Places to Visit in France

Paris Travel Guide
Paris cityscape featuring the Eiffel Tower, a river with a bridge, and historic buildings under a cloudy sky.

  • Renowned for its art, history, cuisine, fashion, and landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and Louvre

    Famous for wine regions, romantic destinations, Provence’s lavender fields, and the sunny Riviera coast

  • Situated in Western Europe, bordered by Belgium, Germany, Italy, Spain, and the Atlantic Ocean.

  • Yes, take the Eurostar train or ferry from England for a day trip experience (Paris, Lyon, Lille)

  • Service charge is included so it’s not customary, but leaving small tips for exceptional service is always appreciated.

  • Use ViaMichelin to calculate motorway toll costs and plan your route efficiently.

  • Lunch is typically 12:00-14:00, and dinner is 19:00-22:00. Some places close in between breaks - definitely note this!

  • Say "Bonjour" (hello) when entering shops or speaking to staff;

    Knowing phrases like "Merci" (thank you) or "S'il vous plaît" (please) is important to!

  • Although card is widely used, it’s always good to have cash on hand.

    Smaller markets and businesses may prefer cash payments over card transactions.

  • France’s climate varies by region; pack layers for unpredictable weather and cooler evenings.

  • Most shops and supermarkets are closed on Sundays, except for tourist areas and markets.

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