The official language and the first language of nearly 90% of the population is French. Do note, however, that different variants are spoken in the various regions of the country. German, as well as Flemish, are spoken by a small number of people in the country. Italian is spoken by those living near the Italy border while it is not uncommon to hear Basque being spoken in areas in the southwest, around the French-Spanish border. A smattering of other dialects and languages such as Catalan and Breton are also heard in pockets.
You will find English being spoken in the bigger cities as well as in and around popular tourist destinations. But it isn’t a common language in the rural regions.
The official currency of France is the Euro (EUR). Currency can be exchanged at airports and in all major towns and cities at the “Bureau de Changes” or “Money Exchanges”. Ensure you have your passport, travel documents, proof of residential and onward address for identification.
Credit cards – mostly Visa and Mastercard – are accepted all across France and shops that accept them generally have a sign in their window stating this. American Express is not accepted in several places in France, especially in the more rural regions. Forex cards are perhaps the most useful when traveling throughout France, as they can be used at most retailers and ATMs and offer the most favorable exchange rates. Travelers Cheques are not advised and are often only accepted in certain parts of Paris in Euros.
As with travel to any developed country, it is important to ensure that you have taken your routine vaccinations. Measles Vaccine is required for infants below 11 months and as well as in specific cases for those 12 months and older. You can find more details here. Some other likely vaccines you may be advised on include Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B and Rabies.
All tap water is safe to drink across France. But given the high mineral content of the water, the taste might not be palatable to all. Bottled water is widely available to buy in supermarkets and in bars and restaurants. Occasionally certain restaurants may have washrooms with water that is unsuitable for drinking. In such cases, there will be a sign on the washbasin stating that the tap water is not suitable for drinking.
Do you have more questions about your upcoming vacation, which aren’t covered in our France travel guide? Get in touch with our experts for further information and advice about visiting this culturally diverse nation.
The South of France is all about the good life – great cuisine, charming cities and scenic landscapes. You’ll get to experience all of it on this 10-day tour that takes you off the beaten track. Go on a cruise aboard a luxury catamaran down the Bay of Cannes, spend time in Provence that served…
Love is in the air as you journey through two of the most romantic cities in the world – Amsterdam and Paris. Get started on a beautiful adventure that promises to be nothing short of magical. Get initiated into the rich art heritage of Amsterdam at the grand Rijksmuseum. Head out for drinks, dinner, and…
Explore France’s famed Christmas markets on this private vacation. Experience the romance of Paris with personalized explorations of its famed landmarks, see the twinkling Christmas lights and revelers of Strasbourg, and sample the culinary delights of Lyon, France’s food haven.
Explore the dreamy Côte d’Azur or French Riviera, from sun-soaked Nice to ruins and medieval villages. Travel inland to discover the lavender landscapes of Provence and the old town of Avignon. In Bordeaux, see historic monuments and sample famous wine at verdant vineyards. End your journey in Lyon, the gastronomic capital of France, with a…
This custom France vacation takes you to the heart of Normandy and the Loire Valley, where you can explore historic sites such as the D-Day Beaches, Mont St-Michel, romantic abbeys and classic French châteaux at leisure. Discover picturesque villages and tranquil valleys in Northern and Central France, live it up in Paris, and sample authentic…
Uncover the most-loved highlights of France on this custom vacation – from the romance of Paris to historic Normandy, the grand chateaus of the Loire Valley, Burgundy’s Côte d’Or vineyards, Avignon’s medieval charm, and the glamorous French Riviera. Soak in French culture, cuisine and natural beauty with unique tours, behind-the-scenes visits, priority access and more!
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From a province of the Roman Empire, to the master of Europe, and a hub of global culture and more, discover traces of France’s long and fascinating history while you travel, with advice from our experts.
Before you jet off to France’s romantic capital or set your sights on its glamorous coastal cities, find out more about local traditions, religion and family, everyday etiquette, the best shopping destinations, cinema, art and more.
Part of UNESCO’s list of intangible cultural heritage, French cuisine is considered one of the best in the world! From regional delights to wine and cheese, cafe culture, and the best dishes by region, eat your way through France with our handy guide.
From dramatic ice caps and jewel-toned lakes to remote islands covered in verdant jungle and volcano craters, explore The Continent differently.
From geothermal spas to celebrated wine and food regions, take a true break from the everyday at these leisurely destinations in Europe.
As part of our ongoing coverage of travel during the COVID-19 pandemic, we’re providing updates on specific regions.
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