| Continent: | Europe |
| Population: | 68.3 Mio. inhabitants |
| Area: | 551'695 km² |
| Capital City: | Paris |
| Currency: | EUR |
| Language: | French |
| Time zone: | UTC +1 (CET) UTC +2 (CEST) |
| Calling code: | +33 |
France, the heart of Europe, is a country full of cultural treasures, stunning landscapes, and culinary delights. From the charming streets of Paris, the "City of Love," to the sun-soaked beaches of the Côte d'Azur, France offers an incredible variety of experiences. The majestic Alps invite you to ski, while the idyllic wine regions like Bordeaux and Burgundy entice with world-class wines. Historic cities like Lyon, Marseille, and Strasbourg tell stories of times past, and the impressive castles of the Loire Valley transport visitors to the fairytale world of the Renaissance. France is a country that delights all the senses, where every traveler can experience unforgettable moments.
Entry
You are obliged to be able to always identify yourself with your passport or identity card.
Safety
The country is stable. Demonstrations are frequent in Paris and other major cities. With the occasional strikes, travel disruptions and delays should be expected. The French government point out the risk of terrorist attacks.
Petty crime is high in the region of Marseille, Côte d’ Azur and in Paris: Snatching thefts, stealing cars, breaking into cars.
What can you do? Deposit your valuables in the hotel safe. Always carry your passport / or a copy of your passport with you for identification purposes. Check with local contacts to see if there are any neighborhoods that should be avoided or require extra caution. On motorways criminals use various tricks to rob or steal cars. For example, they feign breakdowns or helpfulness. In such a case, do not get out of the car. Don’t spend the night in the car.
Important phone numbers
112 - police
112 - ambulance
112 - fire department
Language
The offical language is French.
Currency and means of payment
In France you pay in Euro (EUR). You can pay everywhere with credit cards. It is accepted as a means of payment in all shops, restaurant, or hotels.
Tip
Bills in French restaurants already include a service charge of 10-15%. If you are satisfied with the food and service, you can round up when paying or leave EUR 1 to 2 on the table. Taxi drivers are also happy to receive a small tip.
Transport and infrastructure
The roads are generally in good condition. There is a charge for driving on motorways. Motorway tolls can be paid with cash or with credit card. Special machines for holders of an electronic season ticket (Télépéage) are also available.
Risk due to nature
In summer, there is a risk of forest fires in southern France and Corsica.
Opening hours
Shops in France are generally open Monday to Saturday from 9am to 7pm and sometimes on Sundays. In smaller towns, normal opening hours are limited to 9am to 12pm and 3pm to 7pm.
National holiday
14. July - commemorates the storming of the Bastille on 14. July