Genuine Tips for Traveling to France, from a Local Frenchman
Planning a vacation in France? Do you want to take a short break or spend a few days on the way to another destination? It is essential that you know these tips and tricks to have an even better time in this wonderful country.
Real tips for coming to France
Before moving to France, I was coming as a tourist from Barcelona every two or three months for 10 years. I know very well what it is all about, the organization, the particularities of the stay and how to enjoy even more of what this land has to offer.
This is why I have compiled the best and real tips and tricks for you, based on my experience and knowledge of France, which I find the most useful and which I am sure will help you to optimize your trip.
The keys to a pleasant vacation
To really enjoy your stay in France, it is key to be aware of certain aspects, which will guarantee you a better optimization of your time, tranquility, enjoyment of the whole family.
From specific regulations to common practices, knowing these details can transform a potentially stressful trip into one filled with enjoyment and peace of mind.
Read on to the end to take advantage of this knowledge, come to France as if you were a seasoned traveler and enjoy l’Art de Vivre à la Française to the fullest.
Transparency : some of the links below are affiliate links, which means that when you sign up for the service, the company you sign up with compensates me at no additional cost to you, which helps me maintain, grow this blog and offer all my detailed content for free to readers (like you). And I only recommend sites that I have personally visited and love.
What documents do I need to enter France as a tourist?
The first thing we must observe when planning our trip to France is whether we have the necessary documentation to be able to enter the country.
The entry requirements for France are well regulated and well informed. They depend mainly on your nationality and length of stay.
TIP : I strongly recommend you not to underestimate this item, as there is nothing worse than having a serious problem at the border during our trip.
As detailed on the official government site, Le site officiel de l’administracion française, you must meet all of the following conditions when crossing the border:
- Have a passport (or the corresponding identity document) less than 10 years old and valid for more than 3 months from the date of entry.
- Have a valid visa issued by a Schengen country, if your nationality requires it (more on this later).
- Justify the purpose and conditions of the trip (private or business trip, certificate of accommodation, etc.).
- To have a medical insurance that provides a minimum coverage of €30,000.
- Not to be marked as not admitted in the Schengen information system.
- Not represent a threat to public order, internal security, public health or the international relations of any Schengen country.
- Have sufficient resources (cash, bank cards, etc.) or be able to acquire them legally (professional activity, etc.).
ATTENTION: If you have a residence permit issued by a Schengen country, it is only valid when accompanied by your valid passport.
The daily resources required to enter the country are as follows :
- If you have a hosting certificate : 32, 50 €.
- With a hotel reservation : 65 €.
- Without proof of hotel room reservation : 120 €.
I use Booking.com a lot to book accommodation when I travel. If you don’t have a hotel reservation yet to come to France 👉 Click here to book your hotel with Booking.com
Do I need a VISA to enter France?
European citizens, Americans, English, Canadians, Argentineans, for example, do not need a VISA to enter French territory.
But there are other nationalities that indeed need a VISA to enter the country. To find out what these are, I invite you to consult the official website of the Government of France at the following link: France-visas.gouv.fr – Le site officiel des visas pour la France
You’ll find an intuitive form, available in English, Spanish and other languages, in which you’ll have to answer just 9 simple questions to get the official answer immediately.
Are there immigration controls on the roads or trains to enter France?
The answer is YES. There are controls on trains and roads to enter France.
It is true that they are not fixed, but you can meet them at the first toll booth or the immigration and customs police can come up at the first train station to make controls.
My advice on health insurance in France
When you travel to France, having adequate medical coverage is essential to avoid inconveniences and ensure that you receive the care you need in case of any unforeseen event. Here I explain the options you have according to your situation:
European Citizens: The European Health Insurance Card
If you are a citizen of a member country of the European Union (EU), you have a great advantage. You can apply for a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) in your home country before you travel.
The European Health Insurance Card allows you to access the public health system in France under the same conditions as French residents, whether for medical consultations, hospital care or medicines in pharmacies.
We have our French ones and always take them with us when we go to any country in Europe.
TIP : The European Health Insurance Card covers necessary treatments during your stay, but it is not a substitute for full travel insurance, as it does not include such things as medical repatriation or private care. Be sure to carry it with you at all times to present in case you need medical attention.
If you’re looking for insurance with good support here in France 👉 Click here to apply for coverage with IATI Seguros
Travelers from outside the EU: Compulsory Health Insurance
If you come from a country outside the EU, such as Argentina, the United States or any other non-European country, it is mandatory to have medical insurance to cover any emergency during your stay in France. This insurance must include coverage for:
- Medical and hospital care in case of illness or accident.
- Health repatriation if necessary.
- Minimum coverage of 30,000 euros, as required by regulations to enter France if you are not a European citizen.
Although you may be able to pay for medical care directly in France, the costs can be high, especially if hospitalization is involved.
A good travel insurance policy guarantees that, in any situation, you will not have to worry about medical costs and you will be able to receive care quickly and efficiently.
So, whether you are an EU or non-EU citizen, make sure you have your medical coverage in place before you travel. Prevention is key, and with the European Health Insurance Card or a good travel insurance, you will be sure to enjoy France without worries.
Optimize your time when you come to France for tourism
France is one of those destinations that are always in the sights of travelers, both from abroad and those of us who live here. And no wonder! There are hundreds of attractions, but there are also thousands of visitors who want to enjoy them.
It doesn’t matter if you come in high or low season: tourism in France is constant and, I would say, intense.
Therefore, if you want to make the most of your time and avoid endless queues or disappointment due to lack of availability, planning is key.
Here are my best tips for you to optimize every day of your trip.
Tip : Buy your tickets in advance
France has a very active domestic tourism. It is not uncommon to see French families taking a weekend trip to museums, castles, or theme parks and many attractions can fill up quickly, especially on public holidays or during school vacations.
MY TIP : Most attractions offer online advance ticketing options, and I assure you they are worth it. Not only do they allow you to secure your visit at the date and time you prefer, but they often help you skip long lines. Plus, prices are often the same or even lower online than buying them in person.
👉 Visit my guide to buy advance tickets online
Take advantage of guided tours with priority access
If you are short on time and want to make the most of every minute, consider guided tours that include priority access. Many times, these tours not only allow you to enter without waiting in line, but also come with an expert guide who helps you better understand the history and cultural value of the place.
👉 Contact Carlotta, my friend Travel Planner, who will help you plan your trip
If you can, avoid rush hours and weekends.
If you can be flexible with schedules, take advantage of it! In general, early mornings and weekdays tend to be quieter at the attractions. Wednesdays and Thursdays, for example, tend to be less crowded at many museums and national parks.
Golden Tip: Holiday Calendar
You may be surprised to learn that in France, children have a school rhythm quite different from that of other countries: every six weeks of school, they enjoy two weeks of vacation.
Esto significa que durante todo el año hay varias pausas escolares que pueden afectar la concurrencia turística en muchos destinos, tanto en ciudades como en pueblos pequeños.
If you understand how school vacations work in France, you will have the key to plan your trip and avoid the busiest times of the year.
During school vacations, the most popular tourist sites tend to be more crowded, as many French families take advantage of these breaks to travel within the country. Outside these periods, on the other hand, you will find more tranquility and fewer lines at the main attractions.
ℹ️ I show you the updated vacation calendar below, in the section on Culture and Customs.
Attractions in France
France is the country with the largest number of amusement parks in Europe. Its huge offer is mainly composed of :
- Aquariums
- Animal parks
- Monuments
- Entertainment parks
- Parques acuáticos
- Adventure parks
- Amusement parks
- Theme parks
With more than 600 parks, according to the Syndicat National des Espaces de Recreatifs (SNELAC), you are sure to be spoilt for choice and find one you like to include in your family trip to France.
👉 Visit my guide to buy advance tickets online
Tips on attractions in France
- On the first Sundays of the month, admission to the permanent exhibitions of the National Museums is free of charge.
- In addition, admission to the permanent collections of the National Museums is always free of charge for people between 18 and 25 years of age.
ℹ️ Click here to visit the French Government’s Culture page and find out where all the National Museums in France are located.
- Access to the churches is free of charge.
- In Occitanie, on the first weekend of the month, train tickets cost only 1 euro.
👉👉 Click here to buy your train tickets
Basic vocabulary for a tourist in France
Guichet>> | Ticket counter | Ouverture >> | Opening |
Entrée>> | Entrance | Fermé >> | Closed |
Sortie >> | Exit | Gratuit >> | Free |
Porte >> | Door | Billet >> | Ticket |
Eating, meals and restaurants in France
If there is one thing you will remember about your trip to France, besides its landscapes and monuments, it is the gastronomic experience. Because here, food is not just a daily ritual: it’s a celebration.
From a simple coffee on a terrace to a three-course lunch in a small village restaurant, gastronomy is part of the French soul. And you don’t have to spend a fortune to eat well: in every corner, you can find delicious and authentic options, as long as you know where to look.
In general, all restaurants publish their menus or dishes of the day in their entries. Look for Les Formules or Les Plats du Jour, to know what they propose.
ℹ️ You can find Formules from approximately 19 euros.
ATTENTION TO THE SCHEDULES : Lunch between 12:00 and 14:00, and dinner from 19:00. Outside these ranges, it is more difficult to find open restaurants.
Some tips to keep in mind in a restaurant in France:
- Booking in a Restaurant in France is always better.
- In restaurants in France, keep your voice down, don’t raise your voice.
👉 Visit my guide with the best tips for families in a restaurant in France.
Drinking water in France
In France, water is something you can enjoy with complete peace of mind, whether you opt for bottled water or prefer to drink from the tap. Here are the most important details:
Bottled mineral water in France
France is one of the European giants in mineral water production. It is the third largest producer of bottled water in Europe, behind only Italy and Germany. According to the Ministry of Health, 172 types of water are bottled in the country: 87 natural mineral waters, 81 spring waters and 4 waters that have been treated to be drinkable.
The best-known brands, such as Evian, Perrier or Volvic, are part of the French daily life and are available in any supermarket or neighborhood store. You can choose between still water (eau plate) or sparkling water (eau gazeuse), and the variety is impressive. Each has unique characteristics and flavors, making water shopping a little adventure for the curious.
Tap water in France
If you prefer not to spend on bottled water, no problem! Tap water in France is completely drinkable and of excellent quality. Sanitary regulations are very strict, so you can drink water directly from any tap without worrying. In fact, many French people prefer this option on a daily basis. In addition, it is a more ecological and economical alternative.
Water in restaurants in France
A custom that always surprises tourists is that in all restaurants in France, when you sit down to eat, you can ask for a “carafe d’eau” (bottle of tap water) and they will bring it to you free of charge. It is a standard option and very appreciated by those who prefer to save on drinks during the meal. So if you don’t want bottled mineral water, just ask for your carafe d’eau!
With these three options, drinking water in France is simple and affordable, allowing you to stay hydrated without complications throughout your trip.
👉 Visit my guide with the best Snacks and Meals for Kids to discover France with the Family
Basic vocabulary for a tourist in France
Formule >> | Menu | Carafe d’eau> | Water jug |
Plat du jour >> | Dish of the day | Gâteau >> | Cake |
Eau gazeuse >> | Sparkling water | Eau plate>> | Still water |
What you should know about money, payments and tips in France
When you are in France, understanding how to handle money and payment methods will make your life much easier. Here are some key points that will help you manage this aspect of your trip:
The euro (€)
Well, it is common knowledge that in France, the official currency is the Euro (€), which is used in most countries of the European Union. You will quickly become familiar with the bills and coins, which range from 1 cent to 2 euros in coins, and from 5 to 500 euros in bills (although large bills are rarely used in everyday life).
In most tourist cities, you can exchange currency at exchange offices or withdraw euros directly from an ATM.
IMPORTANT: Do not try to pay with a currency other than the Euro because you will not be able to. The only currency accepted here is the Euro.
ATMs in France : everywhere
Don’t worry if you prefer not to carry a lot of cash on you. In France there are ATMs (cash dispensers or “DABs”) everywhere: in the big cities, towns and even in the most touristic rural areas.
One advantage is that most of these ATMs allow you to choose the language, which facilitates operations if you do not speak French well. With your international card, you can withdraw cash without problems, but remember that your bank may charge a small foreign transaction fee.
Tipping in France
In France, tipping is not mandatory. In restaurants and cafes, service is usually included in the bill (service compris), so you are already paying for the service.
But if the service was excellent and you want to leave an extra, it is common to round up the bill or leave something extra (between 5% and 10%). In bars and cafes, many leave a few coins as a courtesy, but it is not mandatory. In cabs and other services, a small tip is also appreciated, although not indispensable.
Means of payment in France
France is very well prepared for contactless payments, both with contactless cards and mobile applications such as Apple Pay or Google Pay. This type of payment is common in most stores, especially for amounts up to 50 euros or so.
However, for small purchases, such as in bakeries or coffee shops, I recommend having some cash on hand, as some small businesses may have a minimum for card payments.
👉 Read my guide to the best stores and stores you should take advantage of, sightseeing in France.
Payment in parking lots in France
Another practical aspect in France is the payment in parking lots. In public parking lots, you can pay directly at the exit barriers by card, without having to interact with a machine or a person. The system is fast and convenient, as the terminals accept contactless payments, allowing you to leave the parking lot without delay.
In short, traveling in France is easy when it comes to managing money. Keep a mix of cash and card on hand, take advantage of the ATMs that are everywhere and don’t worry too much about tipping: the system is designed to be hassle-free – now you just have to enjoy everything this country has to offer!
👉 Read my guide with the best tips and advice for driving in France.
Tax refund on purchases in France
VAT Exemption (TVA) in France
If you are on tourism and you are going to do some shopping in France, you should know that you can apply for a VAT refund (TVA) on certain products, which allows you to save an important percentage on your purchases.
But there are some conditions and steps you must follow to take advantage of this benefit. Here’s everything you need to know to make sure you don’t miss out on this opportunity.
Conditions to benefit from VAT exemption when coming to France
In order to apply for a VAT refund, you must meet certain requirements:
- You must be resident outside the European Union
- Minimum age : 16 years old
- Your visit to France must be temporary, for a duration of less than six months.
Eligible products and amounts
Not all products are eligible for VAT refund. Here are the conditions:
- The products must be transported in your personal luggage, i.e., they must be things that you will take with you when you return to your country.
- The products must not be intended for commercial sale or for professional purposes. They are personal purchases that you take with you as a tourist.
- The total amount of your purchases must be more than 100 euros, and these purchases must have been made within a maximum period of three days in the same store or in a group of partner stores.
IMPORTANT : The trader is not obliged to offer VAT exemption. This means that some stores may not participate in the refund system, so it is always advisable to ask before purchasing.
There is no limit to the number of products you can purchase to benefit from the VAT refund, as long as you meet the conditions of minimum value and length of stay.
In summary, if you meet these requirements and make important purchases during your stay in France, claiming the VAT refund is an excellent way to save on your products. Don’t forget to check that the merchant offers the possibility of detax (détaxe), and be sure to bring all the necessary documentation to the airport to receive your refund.
Basic vocabulary for a tourist in France
TVA >> | VAT | Douane >> | Customs |
Carte >> | Card | Reçu >> | Receipt |
Sans contact >> | Contactless | La monnaie> | Change |
Culture and Customs in France
France is a country with a rich culture and deep-rooted traditions that may surprise visitors. Some customs will seem curious to you, but understanding them will allow you to better enjoy your trip. Here are some important points that will help you adapt.
France is the country of picnics
If there is one tradition that the French know how to enjoy to the fullest, it’s the picnic. And believe me, it’s not just any picnic. In France, this custom is almost an art.
Parks, gardens and even riverbanks are perfectly arranged for you to enjoy an outdoor meal surrounded by nature, whether you are in Paris or in a small village in the countryside.
The combination of good cheeses, a crusty baguette, quality cured meats, and a bottle of wine is a classic you can’t miss. In addition, the stores and markets are ready for you to prepare your own feast. From supermarkets to the famous boulangeries and fromageries, you will find everything you need to put together a movie picnic.
So I encourage you to join this French tradition. Find a nice park, spread out your blanket, and enjoy a simple but delicious meal outdoors. You will live one of the most authentic and relaxing experiences France has to offer.
Sundays in France : everything is closed
In France, Sunday is sacred for rest. Most businesses, from stores to restaurants and cafes, are closed. This includes most shopping malls and small stores in the cities.
However, there are some exceptions: certain supermarkets may open in the morning, usually until noon, so you can do some last-minute shopping.
In larger cities or tourist areas, you may find some restaurants or stores open, but in general, Sunday is a day to relax and spend time with the family, so it is best to plan your activities and shopping in advance.
Pharmacies and medicines in France
Pharmacies in France are easily recognizable by their luminous green cross, and are the only place where you can buy medicines. Unlike in other countries, non-prescription drugs (such as ibuprofen or paracetamol) are not sold in supermarkets, so you always have to go to a pharmacy to get them.
In every city or neighborhood, there is always a pharmacy on duty (pharmacie de garde) that remains open after hours, including Sundays, holidays and evenings. You can find the nearest pharmacie de garde at the entrance of any closed pharmacy or by consulting online.
School vacations and public holidays in France
In France, school vacations are very important and are organized by geographical zones to avoid the whole country going on vacation at the same time.
There are three zones (A, B and C) that alternate winter and spring break dates, affecting demand for transportation, lodging and crowds at tourist sites. The longest school vacations are summer vacations, which run from early July to early September.
ℹ️ Access the official website of the French Public Service for the school vacation calendar until 2026.
Holidays are also a key aspect to consider when planning your trip. During national holidays such as July 14 (Bastille Day) or August 15 (Assumption), many stores and offices are closed, and some tourist attractions may be busier than usual.
Bridges (ponts) are also common, when a holiday falls close to a weekend and the French take the opportunity to take an extra day off.
Understanding these customs and adapting to them will allow you to better enjoy your stay in France, whether it’s planning a leisurely Sunday stroll, finding a pharmacy on duty, or avoiding the crowds during school vacations.
Now that you know these details, you will be able to move around the country with greater confidence!
Village safety in France
France is generally a very safe country, especially in the small towns, where life is calm and relaxed. However, as in any place, it is important to take certain basic precautions to avoid inconveniences during your trip.
Quiet environment, but always attentive
French towns tend to be very safe, with little crime compared to big cities. It is common to see people walking quietly through the streets at any time of the day. That said, it never hurts to be aware of your surroundings and be careful with your belongings, especially in crowded or touristy places.
Valuables in cars
An important point that you should not forget is not to leave valuables in sight inside the cars. Although the towns are quiet, opportunity thefts can occur, especially in tourist areas or in public parking lots.
Even if you park in a place that looks safe, such as a paid parking lot or on the street in a small town, it is best to keep your belongings in the trunk or take them with you.
By following these simple recommendations, you will be able to enjoy the serenity of French villages without worries and focus on what really matters: discovering the charms of each place!
Electricity and adapters in France
In France, electricity operates at a voltage of 220V, using type C and E plugs (those with two round pins). If you come from a country with a different electrical system, such as the United States or the United Kingdom, you will need an adapter to be able to connect your devices.
These adapters are readily available at any travel store or even at airports. In addition, if your devices are not compatible with 220V, you will also need a voltage converter.
Internet connection and WiFi in France
In France, Internet connection and free WiFi access are widespread, especially in cities and tourist areas. Most hotels, cafes and restaurants offer WiFi free of charge, although the quality of the connection may vary.
If you need to be constantly connected or want to avoid the possible limitations of public networks, I recommend that you consider purchasing an eSIM. This technology allows you to connect to the internet as soon as you arrive in France, without the need for a physical SIM card. The eSIM provides you with a fast and secure connection, and is ideal for those who need to be online for work, use maps or simply stay connected without relying on WiFi.
With an eSIM you can enjoy these advantages:
- Instant connection upon arrival, no need to search for stores or exchange cards.
- Excellent coverage throughout the country, even in rural areas.
- Flexibility to choose the data plan that best suits your needs during your stay.
👉👉 Click here to buy your eSIM card to come to France.
And REMEMBER : Although French is the official language, in tourist areas many people speak either Spanish or English. Even so, learning a few basic French words such as “bonjour”, “merci” or “s’il vous plaît” can open many doors and make the locals welcome you with a smile. 😁
Dear reader,
This article has been written by me, Diego, who has been living in France for a few years and traveling this beautiful country for many more! And it is inspired by my experiences and the tastes of me and my family.
I love to show you the charming villages of France and all there is to do here and I know that many times the organization of a trip can be complicated. That’s why, through my guides, I try to inspire you and help you in your planning.
I hope you have enjoyed reading this article and, above all, that it has been useful.
If you found this travel guide useful and want to thank me, you can now invite me to a virtual coffee!
What do you think of my article ?
