Can France be defined in just a few words? This incredible country is celebrated for its influential literature, vibrant culture, exquisite cuisine, world-renowned wines, and cutting-edge fashion. From the iconic Eiffel Tower in the heart of Paris to the charming lavender fields of Provence, France is brimming with essential landmarks that are certain to spark the imagination of every traveller. Nonetheless, before embarking on your journey, it's crucial to remember some essential travel tips to help ensure a seamless and delightful vacation.
Your passport must be valid for at least three months beyond your departure date from the Schengen area. Additionally, it must have at least one blank page for stamps. For tourist and business purposes, you can enter the Schengen area, including France, for up to 90 days without a visa. Immigration officers may ask you to demonstrate sufficient funds for your intended stay and provide a return airline ticket. The maximum amount of currency allowed for entry to and exit from France is 10,000 Euros.
Don't forget to carry your photo ID in France as the police have the right to ask for it. Having a valid form of ID with you while you're out can help you avoid unnecessary stress from being questioned at a police station. Your passport is required for international border crossings, and you'll also need to show it to your hotel or hostel during check-in.
In France, paying by card is common, with a €50 contactless limit. Mobile payments like Apple Pay and Google Pay are popular. Indian tourists can now use UPI payments in France, allowing them to transact in rupees using local QR codes or UPI IDs, eliminating the need to carry foreign currency. You can also use UPI to book tickets at the Eiffel Tower. Read more about it here.
Driving in France can be expensive and challenging because of the high fuel prices and costly tolls on most highways. Tolls are divided into five categories with fees for cars, cars towing caravans/trailers, buses, lorries, and motorbikes. It's essential to calculate the expected toll costs before starting your journey and ensure you have the necessary funds or a bank card to pay for them. Although there are numerous petrol stations in France, it's important to note that they may be less common in rural areas.
The standard shopping day in France is from Monday to Saturday, from 9 am to 7 pm. Most large stores and shopping malls are open all day, with some opening earlier and closing later. Many small and independent shops are closed on Monday mornings, and some stay closed all day on Mondays, especially if they are open on Saturdays. The opening hours may vary depending on the city or town. It's important to note that shops in France are generally closed on Sundays as it is considered a day of rest for most people. Museums in France typically open at 10 am and close at 6 pm, while some offer extended hours until 9 pm or 10 pm. Museum closures usually happen on Mondays or Tuesdays.
When preparing for a trip to France, it can be helpful to familiarise yourself with key phrases that will enrich your travel experience. Mastering basic French words is crucial for demonstrating politeness. It's advisable to refrain from initiating conversations with French locals in English immediately. Instead, focus on mastering essential words and phrases that every traveller should know, such as"Bonjour", meaning hello, and "Merci" meaning thank you.
In France, it is customary to eat most food using cutlery. One of the exceptions to this rule is when you are enjoying bread. It's important to note that French servers are trained to clear plates only after every party has finished eating, so take your time and enjoy your meal. When you are finished eating, placing your knife and fork across your plate is customary to indicate to the waiter that you are done. Do not take food or coffee on the go; the French like to sit and enjoy what they eat.
In bustling, tourist-filled cities like Paris, it is essential to be vigilant about the safety of your belongings. Packed with iconic attractions, Paris also attracts skilled pickpockets who often target visitors in popular tourist spots. It is highly recommended that you safeguard your belongings by keeping your wallet and other essentials secured and not carrying them in your back pocket.
Ensure a memorable dining experience by making reservations in advance. To secure a table for dinner or lunch at your desired restaurant, be proactive and call ahead to guarantee your spot.
In France, the train system is a vast and intricate network that is not only easy to navigate but also budget-friendly. Take advantage of various rail passes and slower intercity services to traverse the country at a lower cost. Keep an eye out for exclusive deals on tickets, which are often available in different cities. To conveniently move around Paris, consider obtaining a MetroCard, an economical option for transportation within the city. You can easily purchase tickets at most local stations through self-service machines or ticket vending offices.