"Metropolitan France" comprises the 12 administrative regions (French: régions) on the mainland plus Corsicaor in other words all French territory within Europe. These are distinct from the country's overseas territories on other continentswhich are talked about below. The 96 departments (départements) are the next level down of administrative divisiontwo-thirds of them being named after a riverand most others taking after another natural featuresuch as a mountain or sea.

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Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes The home of French skiinga large volcanic region and France's culinary capitalLyon.

Bourgogne-Franche-Comté Tons of medieval historypleasing natural scenery and Burgundy wine.

Brittany Rugged western peninsulahome of Celtscromlechsand crêpes

Centre-Val de Loire A largely agricultural and viticultural regionfeaturing river valleyschâteaux and historic towns along the Loire.

Corsica Napoleon's birthplace is an Italian-influenced subtropical island in the Mediterranean.

Grand Est A region where wider Europeanand especially Germanicculture has merged with the Frenchgiving rise to interesting results.

Hauts-de-France A region where the world wars and the rise and fall of heavy industry have left many scars.

Île-de-France The densely-populated metropolis of Parisand wealthy surrounding countryside.

Normandy Some of France's most famed attractionsincluding Mont Saint-Michelthe D-Day beaches and Claude Monet's home.

Nouvelle-Aquitaine The largest French regiondefined more by its enchanting contrasts than as a coherent whole.

Occitanie Due southwhere the Pyrenees spill into the Mediterranean Sea.

Pays de la Loire The lower Loire Valley and the Vendée areaon the Atlantic coast.

Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur The unmissable French RivieraMarseilleAvignonand the Camargue.

Beyond Metropolitan Francealso known as l'Hexagone for its shapethere are five overseas departments (départements d'outre-mer - DOMs)each as integral to France as any other department: French GuianaGuadeloupeMartiniqueMayotteand Réunion.

In addition to theseFrance has six organised overseas territories (territoires d'outre mer - TOMs) — French PolynesiaNew CaledoniaSaint BarthélemySaint MartinSaint Pierre and Miquelon and Wallis and Futuna — and some remoteuninhabited islands as nature reservesincluding Clipperton Island and the French Southern and Antarctic Lands. Due to having very different climatesculturesand travel arrangementsthese entities are not covered further herebut instead in their own articles.

Due to its many overseas departments and territories scattered around the worldFrance actually spans twelve time zones — that's more than any other country.

A geographically-diverse countryFrance has surprising variations of climate for its size. Generallythe climate becomes warmer the more south you goand wetter the more west you go. Most of the country experiences temperate winters and warm and often humid summersand this is especially true of Paris and the Loire Valley. Mildwet winters and cool summers persist in the north and north west (BrittanyNormandyHauts-de-France) where the whole climate is similar to that of southern England. Along the eastern border (Grand-Est)there is a continental climate with cool to cold winters and hot summers. The Rhone Valley graduates from this to the warmer souththough the whole region experiences a strongcolddrynorth-to-northwesterly wind known as the mistral. The Mediterranean (OccitanieProvence-Alpes-Côte d'AzurCorsica) enjoys shortmild winters and longhot summers with high sunshine hours all year round. The south west (Nouvelle-AquitaineOccitanie) has similarly hot summers but lots of rain in winteraffected by the Atlantic and mountains. Expect cold winters with lots of the snow in the mountainous regions: the AlpsPyrenees and Auvergne. Howeversometimes the winters can be mildand business owners who rely on the annual winter sports boom are left staring at the sky hopefully.

The majority of centralwestern and northern France comprises flat plains or gently rolling hillspunctuated with many long river valleys. This large expanse of arable landcoupled with the near perfect climateis what makes French agriculture so rich and productive. The remainder of the country is mountainouswith the south-east's Alps and south-west's Pyrenees among western Europe's highest ranges. Smaller ranges include the Vosges and Jura in the eastand the Massif Central in the mid south. The concept of terroir is extremely important to French farmers and winegrowersand demonstrates how a particular area's climatesoil type and terrain combine to affect the flavour or character of a crop.

You can visit France at any time of the yearand of course some regions lend themselves to certain seasons (e.g. the Alps in winterParis in the springtime)but in general terms spring and autumn offer the ideal mix of decent weather throughout most of the country and a quieter tourist season. Summer is warm and sunny throughout most of Franceand there are often many events going on to tempt the travellerwhether they be local festivalsoutdoor concert seasons or the annual 14 July national holiday. Howevertravellers are advised to avoid the month of Augustas this is when seemingly the entire population of France ups sticks and heads south for les vacances. This is the busiest time of year for transportwith samedi noir (black Saturday; the first of the month) often seeing up to 1000 km of traffic jams across the road network. What's moreyou will find many local businessesparticularly in rural areas and regardless of whether there are summer visitors in the areashut for the entire month. In the locals' absencehordes of foreign tourists throng the country's major attractions and citiesand Paris especially can see room rates skyrocket.

It is advisable to plan ahead for your travel arrangementsespecially during the French school holidays. The whole country's schools break for the summer on the first Friday of July and return the first Monday of September. This increased demand for travel means busier roads and more expensive plane and train fares. Avoid travelling around these dates if you can. There are also school holidays of about two weeks from late October to early Novemberat Christmas and Easterand between May Day and Victory Day.

French public holidays are influenced by the important Catholic holidaysalthough Good Friday is only observed in the Alsace. Most of them fall on different dates depending on the year. This list most significantly includes Easter (Pâques) which has a bank holiday on Sunday and Monday. The Assumption of Mary into Heaven (Assomption) always falls on 15 AugustAll Saints' Day (Toussaint) on 1 Novemberand Christmas (Noël) on 25 December. Other holidays include the New Year (Nouvel An / Jour de l'an1 Jan)May Day (Fête du Travail1 May)Victory Day (8 mai8 May)Bastille Day (Fête nationale14 July)and Armistice Day (Jour du Souvenir / Jour de l'Armistice11 November). Like some of its neighbours (notably ItalySpain and Germany)France has an extensive calendar of local holidays and saint daysbut unlike those countriesthese generally aren't observed by businesses and government.

France has been populated since the Neolithic period. The Dordogne region is especially rich in prehistoric cavessome used as habitationwhile others as temples with remarkable paintings of animals and hunterssuch as those found at Lascaux.

Rise and fall of the Roman Empire

[edit]

Written history began in France with the invasion of the territory by the Romansbetween 118 and 50 BC. The territory which is today called France was made a part of the Roman Empireand the Gauls (a name given to local Celts by the Romans)who lived there before the Roman invasionsbecame acculturated "Gallo-Romans". Gauls also lived in what is now Northern Italy and as such "Gallia Cisalpina" was the first Gaulish area to come under Roman dominion. Laterthe area that is now the Provence came under Roman control under the name "Gallia Transalpina" (Gaul beyond the Alps) and it was as governor of this province that Julius Caesar manipulated local politics between Gaulish tribes in such a way that he fought a "defensive" war (provincial governors were not permitted to launch offensive war on their own initiative) that ended with the conquest of all of Gaul and the defeat and capture of Gallic chieftain and rebel leader Vercingetorix in the battle of Alesia. Caeasar and his confidante Aulus Hirtius (book 8) wrote a collection of books on the war known as De Bello Gallicothe bane of Latin students of all eras ever sinceas the propaganda piece is lauded for its clear and concise language and one of very few antique sources where a major historical figure writes about their own actions. Caesar refers to himself in the third person in the booka trait rarely unmentioned on cultural depictions like the French comic book Astérixwhere it's a recurring joke. Caesar's actions were of questionable legality under Roman lawand his famous crossing of the Rubicon was triggered by his fear that he'd face prosecution if he entered Italy without an army. Thusthe conquest of Gaul was instrumental in the chain of events that caused the fall of the Roman Republic.

Emperor Claudius was born on Lugdunumnow Lyonthe most important Gallo-Roman city at this time. Roman rule in Gaul was a time of relative peace and prosperitybut during the crisis of the 3rd centurythere were local usurpers who founded a "Gallic Empire" which controlled Gaul and parts of Germania during a time of weak central control. Some buildings built by the Romans in the era are still extantand their roads remained in widespread use until the advent of the automobile as their quality far exceeded medieval road-building.

With the fall of the Western Roman Empire in the 5th century ADwhat was left were areas inhabited by the descendants of intermarriages between Gallo-Romans and "barbaric" Easterners (mainly the Franksbut also other tribes like the "Burgondes").

The legacy of the Roman presence is still visibleparticularly in the southern part of the country where Roman circuses are still used for bullfights and rock'n'roll concerts. Some of France's main roads still follow the routes originally traced 2,000 years agoand the urban organisation of many old town centres still transcript the cardo et decumanus typical grid of a Roman camp. The other main legacies of Roman civilisation are the Catholic Churchthe codified law system and the French language.

Age of Revolutions

[edit]

See also: Napoleonic Wars and French Colonial Empire

The French Revolution started in 1789. The kingLouis XVIand his wifeMarie Antoinettewere arrested and ultimately executed by guillotineand the first French Republic was established in place of the almost 1000-year-old monarchy. Although this was a bloody periodit was and remains an inspiration for many other liberation struggles around the world. During the revolutionFrance also signed the first "declaration of human rights" into lawjust a few months ahead of its counterpart in the United States. To this day many constitutions include a declaration of rights that bear influence from this document.

Napoleon Bonaparte took power in a coup and ultimately restored France to a monarchical system by having himself crowned emperor in 1804but his militaristic ambition which made him the ruler of most of western Europe was his downfall. His defeat at the hands of the Royal Navy in the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805 meant that he never managed to eclipse the British as the world's dominant naval power. In 1815Napoleon met his final defeat in the Battle of Waterloo (Belgium) by an alliance of British and Prussian forcesand was captured and exiled from Europe. He is still revered in some Eastern European countries as his armies and government brought with them the ideas of French philosophers.

France went back to monarchy (first a Bourbon restorationthen a liberal kingdom under Louis Phillipe starting with a 1830 revolution) until another revolution in 1848 allowed a nephew of Napoleon to be elected president and then become emperor under the name of Napoleon III. The end of the nineteenth century saw the industrialisation of the country and the development of the railways but also the start of the bitter wars with Prussia and later Germany.

The war of 1870that broke out over a minor disagreement regarding the vacant Spanish throne (a Hohenzollern prince had been suggested as heir and the French government demanded the Prussian government to firmly reject on his behalf)proved to be disastrous for the French. An ill prepared army was caught off-guard when not only Prussia but also Southern German states like Bavaria mobilisedwhile no one came to the aid of France. To add insult to injuryNapoleon III was captured in an early battle near Sedan and a Third Republic was declared. Not content with thisthe Prussians drove onbesieging Paris (forcing its inhabitants to eat zoo animals) and crushing the short lived Paris Commune. When a peace treaty was finally signedFrance had to give up Alsace and Lorrainewhich had a German-speaking population in parts but more importantly rich iron ore deposits. In addition to that France was forced to pay five billion francs in golda sum so enormous that there was still something left over of it when France beat Germany in World War I forty years later.

While the Third Republic was seen as a temporary solution at the time and early in its existence it had a monarchist majority in the National Assemblysquabbling between various monarchist factions and the refusal by their "compromise candidate" to accept the Tricolore flag as precondition to his crowning led to the Republic surviving its tumultuous initial phase. The Republic also survived the Dreyfus affairin which a Jewish colonel was falsely convicted of treason under court martialand Émile Zola's stinging rebuke of the military (J'accuse)and the ensuing controversyshook France to its cultural and political core. After the First World Waras elsewhere in Europeantidemocratic forces were on the rise in the interwar yearsrequiring a "popular front" government led by Léon Blum that included centrist parties as well as the Communists. The Third Republic only collapsed upon the military defeat of France in the early phase of the Second World War and remains the longest lived regime France has had since deposing Louis XVI in 1792. The current Fifth Republic could only surpass the Third Republic in duration by lasting until 2028 or longer.

20th and 21st centuries

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1905 saw the separation of Church and Stateunder an initiative known as laïcité ('secularism') in response to the Dreyfus affair. This was a traumatic processespecially in rural areas. Since thenFrance has not had an established religion. Under a 'don't askdon't tell' policythe law forbids French students and civil servants from displaying any sign explicitly showing their religion while in their school or place of work. This policy applies to wearing Christian crosses and Jewish kippahsand has also been applied to the Muslim hijab. In the early 21st centurystatistics for Church-going and belief in God were among the lowest in Europe. And while religion plays no role in politicslaïcité - what exactly is meant by it and how far it should go - does.

The First World War (1914 -18) was a traumatic period in France's history. Despite victory being achieved by France and her alliesalmost 1.7 million French people were killed and many towns and villages and large tracts of countryside were destroyed. Much of the infamous trench warfare was fought across the eastern half of France. France was close to defeat twice in the war and was only convinced to fight on by the "miraculous" stopping of the 1914 German advance and by Marshal Philippe Pétain rallying the troops for the battle of Verdun in 1916. After the warFrance took control of the formerly German areas of Alsace and Lorraineas well as several of Germany's overseas coloniesand became a leading force in Europe for the next decade.

The Second World War (1939 - 45) saw France occupied for much of the war by Nazi Germany. With northern France under direct German control and the south ruled by a puppet government (known as the Vichy regimewith ageing war hero Marshal Pétain installed as figurehead to present an illusion of continuity)many totalitarian measures were introducedincluding the forced deportation of Jews to concentration camps (see Holocaust remembrance). The Vichy regime under Pétain was officially collaborationist with the Nazisand many ordinary French citizens followed suitsome with more zeal than others. Howeveras the war went onsupplies of basic provisions ran lowand the fascist excesses of the regime got worsethe numbers of civilians engaging in active and passive resistance increased markedly. In 1944after Allied landings (including exiled French soldiers and those from France's imperial colonies) in Normandy (see D-Day beaches) and on the Mediterranean CoastFrance was liberated from German control.

After the end of the Second World WarFrance went through a period of reconstruction and a new prosperity was achieved with the development of industryand has since grown into Europe's second largest economy after Germany. France and Germany were among the first members of the treaties which eventually evolved into the European Union. During the post-war period France went through painful decolonialisation processes in Indochina (see Indochina Wars) and Algeria and released almost all of its other possessions into independence. While France had to deal with the fact that their great power status was a thing of the pastsome technological advances were made that were at least partially intended to show the world that France was still great. Be it the TGVthe French space programme or the French nuclear programme. On the other hand Franco-British relationswhich had been difficult even in times of official alliance in the past became betternotably through projects like the Channel Tunnel and the joint Concorde project. One of the most visible consequences of France's EU membership was the introduction of the euro (€) in 2002. It is now the common currency of sixteen European countrieswhich together make up the 'Eurozone'.

TodayFrance is a republic with a President elected for a five-year term (quinquennat). The current constitution of the so called Fifth Republic was written after the collapse of the post war Fourth Republicmostly according to the wishes of Charles de Gaulle. The incumbent President of the Republic is Emmanuel Macron. Current issues that face the country include the further integration of France into the EU and the adoption of common standards for the economydefence and other fields.

Electricity is supplied at 220–230 V at 50 Hz. Outlets are CEE7/5 (protruding male earth pin) and accept either CEE 7/5 (Grounded)CEE 7/7 (Grounded) or CEE 7/16 (non-grounded) plugs. Older German-type CEE 7/4 plugs are not compatible as they do not accommodate the earth pin found on this type of outlet. Howevermost modern European appliances are fitted with the hybrid CEE 7/7 plug which fits both CEE 7/5 (Belgium & France) and CEE 7/4 (most of Europeincluding GermanyNetherlandsSpain and Sweden) outlets.

Plugs Travellers from the UKIrelandAustraliaNew ZealandDenmarkItalySwitzerland and other countries using 230 V at 50 Hz with different plugs simply require a plug adaptor to use their appliances in France. Plug adaptors for plugs from the U.S. and UK are available from electrical and "do-it-yourself" stores such as Bricorama.

Voltage: Travellers from the USCanadaJapan and other countries using 110 V at 60 Hz may need a voltage converter or – in some cases – a transformer. Howevermany laptopsmobile phone chargers and other devices can accept either 110 V or 230 Vrequiring only a simple plug adaptor. Check the voltage rating plates on your appliances before connecting them.

France is a member of the Schengen Agreement. See Travelling around the Schengen Area for more information on how the scheme workswhat countries are members and what the requirements are for your nationality. In summary:

• There are normally no immigration controls between countries that have signed and implemented the treaty; there may be such controls temporarilysuch as in connection with important events and various crises.
• The operators may carry out identity checks before passengers board international flightsferries or trainseven between Schengen countries.
• Citizens of the EEA countries and Switzerland do not need visas to travel in the Schengen areaand may stay up to 90 days with no requirements other than having a valid ID card or passport. See European Union#EEA citizens.
• Normal visas granted by any Schengen member are valid in all countries that have signed and implemented the treaty (with exceptions for some overseas territories). The granting country may offer additional rights (such as longer stays or right to work) that apply only locally.

In additioncitizens of Andorra and Monaco may enter and reside in France indefinitely without a visa.

Citizens of AlbaniaAndorraAntigua and BarbudaArgentinaBahamasBarbadosBosnia and HerzegovinaBruneiCanadaChileCosta RicaCroatiaEl SalvadorGuatemalaHoly SeeHondurasIsraelMauritiusMonacoMontenegroNew ZealandNicaraguaNorth MacedoniaPanamaParaguaySan MarinoSaint Kitts and NevisSeychellesTaiwan and Uruguayas well as British Nationals (Overseas)are permitted to work in France without the need to obtain a visa or any further authorisation for the period of their 90 day visa-free stay. All other visa-exempt nationals are exempt from holding a visa for short-term employment if they possess a valid work permitwith limited exceptions. Howeverthis ability to work visa-free does not necessarily extend to other Schengen countries. For more informationvisit the page of the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Foreign nationals who are not visa-exempt must make a déclaration d'entrée (declaration of entry) at a police station or to border inspection personnel if they arrive in France directly from another country of the Schengen Areaunless they hold a long-term visa or residence permit issued by a Schengen member state. Their passports will be endorsed by the authorities to prove that such a declaration has been made.

If you intend to stay in France for longer than 90 daysregardless of purposean advance long-stay visa is always requiredexcept for EEA and Swiss citizens. It is almost impossible to switch from a "C" (visitor) entry status to a "D" (long-stay) status from inside France.

As of 2009certain categories of long-stay visasuch as "visitor" (visiteur)family (vie privée et familiale)"student" (étudiant)"salaried worker" (salarié)and "short-term worker" (travailleur temporaire)do not require their holders to obtain a separate residence permit (carte de séjour) for the first year of the stay in France. Howeverthe long-stay visa must be validated by the OFII within three months of entering France. This is done by sending in a form to the OFII (received along with the visa)with the address of residence in Francecompleting a medical examinationand attending an introductory meeting to validate the visa. As of 2013the tax paid to OFII must now be paid at the consulate where the visa is obtained. The validated visa will serve as a residence permit andlikewiseallow travel throughout the other Schengen countries for up to 90 days in a 6 month period. After the first yearhoweverand for many other visa categories which state carte de séjour à solliciter dès l'arrivéea carte de séjour is required. Consult the OFII< about="#mwt84" data-mw='{"name":"templates","attrs":{"src":"Dead link/s.css"},"parts":[{"template":{"target":{"wt":"Dead link","href":"./Template:Dead_link"},"params":{"date":{"wt":"April 2025"},"bot":{"wt":"InternetArchiveBot"}},"i":0}}]}' data-mw-deduplicate="TemplateStyles:r5167228" id="mwAW0" typeof="mw:Extension/templates mw:Transclusion">.mw-parser-output .error-deadlink{color:red;background:yellow;display:none;white-space:nowrap}^{[dead link]} for more information.

French overseas departments and territories are not part of the Schengen Area and operate separate immigration regimes from Metropolitan France. Visas for Metropolitan France are generally not valid for visits to these areasand you will need to obtain separate visas for them from a French diplomatic mission. Of theseMayotteFrench GuianaGuadeloupeMartiniqueRéunion and Saint-Martin are part of the European Unionso EU/EEA/Swiss citizens may freely immigrate and work there. The other overseas territories are not part of the EUso even EU/EEA/Swiss citizens may require a work permit to take up employment.

France is served by numerous services from England:

• P&O Ferries - operate freight and passenger services from Dover to Calais.
• DFDS Seaways - operate freight and passenger services from Dover to Dunkirk. Also Newhaven to Dieppe.
• LD Lines - operate freight and passenger services from Portsmouth to Le Havre.
• Brittany Ferries - operate freight and passenger services from Portsmouth to CaenCherbourgandSt Malofrom Poole to Cherbourg and from Plymouth to Roscoff.
• Condor Ferries - operate freight and passenger services from Portsmouth to CherbourgPoole to St Malo and Weymouth to St Malo.

Prices vary considerably depending on which route you choose. Generally the cheapest route is the short one across the English Channel from Dover to Calais.

Passengers travelling from Dover by ferry to France go through French immigration checks in the UK before boardingrather than on arrival in France. Passengers travelling from all other UK ports to France go through French immigration checks on arrival in France.

There are also connections from Ireland:

• Brittany Ferries — services from Cork to Roscoff
• Celtic Link Ferries^{[dead link]} — services from Rosslare to Cherbourg
• Irish Ferries — services from Rosslare to Cherbourg and from Rosslare to Roscoff

If you're travelling with an Eurail/Interrail passyou can get a discount on the ferries between Newhaven (UK) and Dieppeand Rosslare (IE) to Cherbourg. This does not use up a travel day on non-continuous passes either.

The French rail companySNCFas well as many other companies (sometimes in cooperation with SNCF)provide direct service from most European countries using regular as well as high speed trains.

• TGVs between ParisMetz and Luxembourgas well as TGV between Brussels and France (except Paris) are operated by SNCF
• TGVs between ParisLilleand London in the UKthrough the Channel Tunnel (also called Chunnel by some)are operated by Eurostar
• TGVs between ParisLilleBelgiumNetherlands and north-west Germany (CologneEssen) are also operated by Eurostar (formerly Thalys).
• High speed trains between France and South Germany (FrankfurtStuttgartMunich) are operated by Alleowith either a SNCF TGV or a Deutsche Bahn ICEand bilingual crew from both countries.
• TGVs between France and Switzerland are operated by Lyria
• TGVs between France and Italy are operated by TGV France Italie.
• Night trains between Moscow and Paris operated by the Russian RZD used to run weeklystopping en-route in Belarus (Minsk)Poland (WarsawPoznan) and Germany (BerlinErfurt). These are suspended because of the Russian war on Ukraine.
• Night trains between Moscow and Nice operated by the Russian company RZD used to run weeklystopping en-route in Belarus (Minsk)Poland (WarsawKatowice)Austria (ViennaLinzInnsbruck) and Italy. These are suspended because of the Russian war on Ukraine.
• Upon reservationyou can take your bike with you in night trains and single-deck TGV's.

Two companies operate between France and the rest of Europe:

• BlaBlaCar Bus: BarcelonaLondonBelgiumthe Netherlands and Northern Italy
• FlixBus: from Germany

Bicycles may be taken on car ferries and on Eurotunnel shuttle trains. They may also be carried on aeroplanesthough you should consult your airline beforehand: bikes often count as "oversized luggage" and there is sometimes an extra charge to check them in. You may also be asked to partially dismantle your bicyclebut this policy will vary from carrier to carrier. Eurostar allows folding bikes on all its trainsand offers a more restricted service for other bikesbut has quite strict and specific rules that are worth reading up on before you travel.

The Strasbourg tram system inaugurated a cross-border link to the German town of Kehl in 2017. There is another cross-border link under construction between Basel in Switzerland and Saint Louis in France. While the German-French border imposes no problemsas both countries are EU membersgoing to/from Switzerlandyou are leaving (or entering) the EU and thus crossing a customs border with the limits on imports that implies and there may be customs checks. HoweverSwitzerland is in the Schengen Area so those with no goods to declare shouldn't worry.

While no longer as ubiquitous as before due to ban on flights if a route is reachable by train within 2 1/2 hoursdomestic flying remains a bookable optionespecially between Paris and southern Franceand if offered as a direct connection from or to an international flight.

The following carriers offer domestic flights within France:

1. Air France has the biggest domestic network in France
2. HOP!a subsidiary of Air Franceoperates domestic flights with smaller aircraft
3. easyJeta low-cost airlinehas the second biggest domestic network in France
4. Ryanairan Irish low-cost airlineserves mainly secondary airports
5. Volotea has a network of domestic flights
6. Air Corsica links Corsica with mainland France
7. Twin Jet operates domestic flights with 19-seat Beech 1900D aircraft
8. Chalair Aviation has a limited network of domestic flightsusing mainly 19-seat Beech 1900D aircraft
9. Heli Securite^{[dead link]} (Cannes (Croisette Heliport)Nice (Cote D'Azur Airport))

France has a well-developed system of highways. Most of the motorway (autoroute) network is made up of toll roads. Some have a single toll station giving you access to a sectionothers have entrance and exit toll stations at every junction. Upon entering a tolled section of a roadyou must collect an entry ticket from a machine which records the point on the road you started at and ensures you only pay for the distance you travel. Be careful not to lose your entrance ticket or you will be charged for the longest possible distance. All toll stations accept major credit cards although they may not accept foreign credit cards. It is also possible to use the automatic boothbut only if your card is equipped with a special chip.

Roads range from the narrow single-carriageway lanes found in the countryside to major highways. Most towns and cities were built before the general availability of the automobile and thus city centres tend to be unwieldy for cars. Keep this in mind when renting: large cars can be very unwieldy. It often makes sense to just park and then use public transportation.

A French driver flashing headlights is asserting right of way and warning you of intentions and presence. Do not use it to mean thanks. Flashing headlights can also mean"Watch out as there's a police speed-check ahead of you!" Horns should be used only in legitimate emergencies; use of the horn in urban areas outside such circumstances might win you a traffic ticket. Parisian drivers were notorious for honking their horns at anything and everythingthough increased enforcement has greatly reduced this practice.

Several weekends throughout the year in France are known as 'Black Saturday' (Samedi noir) because of the start or end of school holidays and the coinciding traffic jams on French roads caused by thousands of tourists travelling to and from their holiday destinations. When possible it is wise to avoid these days. For traffic reportssee here^{[dead link]}.

France is a good country for hitchhiking. Be patientprepare yourself for a long wait or walk and in the meantime enjoy the landscape. A ride will come along. People who stop are usually friendly and not dangerous. They will like you more if you speak a little French. They never expect any money for the ride.

Getting out of Paris by thumb is almost impossible. You can try your luck at the portes (city gates)but heavy traffic and limited areas for stopping will try your patience. It's a good idea to take the local train to a nearby suburb as your chance of being picked up will increase dramatically.

Outside Parisit's advisable to try your luck by roundabouts. As it's illegal to hitchhike on the motorways (autoroutes) and they are well observed by the policeyou may try at a motorway junction.

If you've been waiting for a while with an indication of where to godrop it and try with your thumb only. If you don't have luck where you areyou can also try to get a ride to the next good spot in the wrong direction.

Toll plazas (gares de péage)some of which require all cars to stopare commonly used to get a ridebut the practice is illegal. French police or highway securitywho are normally very tolerant of hitchhikersmay stop those trying and force them to leave.

Between two points of rural France not on the same railway linehitching 500 km can be as quick as taking four different (and not cheap) trains.

Blablacar has a quasi-monopoly in Francebut it is still a convenienteconomical and efficient way to see the country. Prices for distances are below the ones of the train and busesabout €8-10 per 100 km. Pay at is handled through the service. The app optimises the location of the passenger at the meeting point and the driver's route. Between the largest cities you will find many optionssome starting in the centreothers just going by the highway – check the exact meeting point before committing to a booking. BlaBlaCar has a rating system and the rides are very reliable. BlaBlaCar offers insurance to cover the rest of the journey in case of interruption.

Rezo Pouce is an organised carpooling and hitchhiking service. Riders can mark their routes on a smartphone appwhich allows them to arrange rides. Alternativelythey can wait for a ride at a stop marked with the service logowith a sign with the service logo and the destination of their choice. Drivers registered with the service will have a Rezo Pouce sign on their windscreen and carry an ID cardmaking the service safer. Passengers also show their membership card or their profile in the app to show that they have registered for the service. Minors can join the service with parental consent. For Rezo Pouce passengersrides are freeas with hitchhikingbut for longer journeys it is recommended to contribute to the cost.

Trains are a great way to get around in France. You can get from pretty much anywhere to anywhere else by train. For long distancesuse the TGV (Trains à Grande Vitesse: High-speed trains) on which reservations are obligatory – but if you have timetake the slow train and enjoy the scenery. The landscape is part of what makes France one of the top tourist destinations in the world.

Like many things in Francethe TGV network is focused on Paris to an almost ridiculous degreeand you may be out of luck when searching for a fast connection between secondary cities. Quite often a considerable detour via the Paris region can be faster than the direct train would be. Usuallyif you need to change trainsyou can usually do so at one of three out-of-town TGV stations: MassyMarne-la-Vallée or Charles de Gaulle Airportwhich are on a connection line linking the northerneasternsouth-eastern and south-western high-speed lines. It is still sometimes necessary to change in Parisand the capital has several terminus stationswhich are not linked by mainline railso you'll likely have to use the RER or metro to transfer from one train to another. It can be a lot more expensive to travel via Parisas you pay per kilometre for your detour.

The French national railway network is managed by SNCF Réseauxa branch of the SNCF (Société nationale des chemins de fer français). The SNCF is the butt of jokes about delays and industrial actionbut it actually offers a reliablepunctual service when there are no strikes.

For regional trainsschedules can be found at ter.sncf.com (choose your regionthen "Carte and horaires" for maps and timetables). Booking is available in two classes: première classe (first class) is less crowded and more comfortable but can also be about 50% more expensive than deuxième classe (second class).

The SNCF website Gares & Connexions provides live train scheduleskeeping you informed about platform numbers and delays. This information is also available on smartphones via the free application SNCF.

There are a number of different kinds of high speed and normal trains:

• TER (Train Express Régional): Regional trains form the backbone of the SNCF system. TER are sometimes slower but do serve most stations. Available on Eurail and InterRail passes.
• Intercités
• TGV (Trains à Grande Vitesse): The world-famous French high-speed trains run several times a day from Paris to the south-east Nice (5-6 hr)Marseille (3 hr) and Avignon (2 hr 30 min)the east Geneva (3 hr) or LausanneSwitzerland and Dijon (1 hr 15 min)the south-west Bordeaux (3 hr)the west Rennes (2 hr)Nantes (2 hr)Brest (4 hr) and the north Lille (1 hr). Reservations are compulsory.
• Night train services (Intercités de Nuit) include couchettes second class (6 bunk beds in a compartment)first class (4 bunks) and reclining seats. You can ask for a "private room" (in first class). These mainly run between Paris and southern France cities (i.e. NiceToulouseLourdesBiarritzPerpignan)

France does not have a national bus service. Coach traffic was liberalised in 2015allowing the emergence of a few long-distance companies. Two well-known ones are BlaBlaCar Bus (previously Ouibus) and FlixBuswhich quickly expanded in France after the liberalisation.

The coach companies compete with rail on pricewhich means they are usually somewhat cheaper than trainssometimes much cheaperespecially if booked in advance. Trains are more comfortable and sometimes much faster. Tourist information centres may recommend the train over the bus; if sopolitely insist that you would still like information about buses as well as trains.

Local and regional bus services are available throughout France; you can find more details in region and city articles. When using local busesit is essential to validate your ticket if necessaryespecially if using card-like tickets with magnet bands.

France is not a particularly cyclist-friendly country (unlikesaythe Netherlands)but the situation is improving: more cycle paths are being built and about 40 cities have a bike-sharing system.

Beware of bike thieves. If you have to park your bike in the streetmake sure to lock it properlyparticularly in larger cities and at night. Avoid using the cable-locks that can be cut within secondsinstead use U-shaped lockschains or folding locks. Lock your bike to a solid fixed support like a U-Rack. Lock the frame (not only the wheels) and make sure that your wheels cannot be removed without tools.

G7 app works in 180 cities and towns. Uber and Bolt work in major cities.

More than 160 villages have been identified as the most beautiful in France: Les Plus Beaux Villages de France. Numerous other villages are dotted with medieval cottageschurches and castles.

The Alps and the Pyrenees, with their many winter sports resortspossess lush river valleysdense forests and huge stretches of farmland and vineyards.

The western region of Brittany boasts many megalithic monuments such as those near Carnac.

The beaches of Normandyalso on the Atlantic coastare famed for the D-Day landings on 6 June 1944. Although the humbling cemeteries and countless museumsmemorials and wartime remains keep memory of those dark days alivethe region is now a pleasant and popular destination. Its picturesque coastline includes both long stretches of beach and steep limestone cliffssuch as those near Étretat). The region is also home to the splendid and World Heritage-listed Mont-Saint-Michel and its bay.

The lush hills of the Dordogne are pockmarked with cavesmany of which house treasure troves of prehistoric art. The area is also famous for its castleswith over 1,500 of them.

The rolling riverine landscape of the Loire Valley is home to many great châteauxof which AmboiseVillandryAzay-le-RideauChambord and Chenonceau are some of the finest examples. The Château d'Angers is also important for the fantastic Tapestries of the Apocalypsethe largest and best preserved series of 14th-century tapestries in the world.

There are also châteaux in Île-de-Franceincluding the famous Château de Versaillesthe former royal court of the Sun KingLouis XIVand Vaux-le-Vicomtewhich it was based on. Chantillynorth of Parisis home to another château which has an excellent art collection.

Just north of ParisSaint-Denis is where the first Gothic cathedral was builtand though its is now eclectic from later additionsit's still well worth visiting. Other famous cathedrals in France include those at ChartresReimsRouen (famously painted in several kinds of light by Monet)AmiensBourgesStrasbourgMetz and Sensand it's well worth your while to emulate centuries of French pilgrims and visitors by visiting these awe-inspiring houses of worship. In Parisin addition to Notre Damebeautifully restored from a recent firethe Sainte-Chapelle is much smaller but comparably lovely. Also worth special note is the tiny town and impressive Romanesque/Gothic cathedral of Vézelaya traditional point of departure for the Camino de Santiago to the Spanish Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela.

Though many of France's most famous houses of worship are Medievalall intervening s are also representedand one highlight in Alpes-Maritimes in the southjust outside the centre of the small city of Venceis the Chapelle du Rosaire des Dominicaineswhich was completely designed by the Modernist artistHenri Matisse.

The grandeur and fame of the Musée du Louvre in Paris can hardly be matched by any other museum in the world. It boasts a fabulous collection of art from antiquity to the 19th century and is home of the Mona Lisa and many other renowned works.

The Musée d'Orsay is another world class museum that picks up roughly where the Louvre's collections ends. It's in an old railway station and houses the national collection of art works from 1848 to 1914. Its excellent collection includes some of the best French Impressionistpost-Impressionist and Art Nouveau worksincluding Degas' ballerinas and Monet's water-lilies.

The Musée National d'Art Moderne in Centre Pompidoustill in France's capitalis the largest museum for modern art in Europe.

The Museum of Fine Arts in Lyon has an excellent collection varying from ancient Egypt antiquities to Modern art paintings and sculptures.

In Lille you'll find the Palais des Beaux-Arts de Lilleone of the country's largest museums. Its varied collection is the second largest after the Louvre and boasts everything from antiquities to modern art.

Smallerbut still outstandingare the collections of the Musée Fabre in MontpellierMusée Toulouse-Lautrec in Albi and the Picasso Museum in Paris. Marseille has many galleries and the Musée Cantini has a good collection of modern art associated with Marseille as well as several works by Picasso. Fondation Maeght houses modern art too and is situated in Saint-Paul de Vence.

France has one of the world's strongest classical music traditions. French composers such as LullyRameauBerliozFauréGounodDebussyBizetSaint-SaënsRavelMassenetDelibes and Messiaen are generally well-known among classical music circlesand even to some members of the general public. Even if you have never heard of themchances are you are already familiar with some of their pieceswhich are commonly quoted in advertisingfilm scores and even modern pop music.

Even though ballet originated during the days of the Italian RenaissanceFrance played a very important role in the development of the art formand to this daymany modern-day terms used by ballerinas originate from French. The Paris Opera Ballet is one of the most famous ballet companies in the worldalong with the Royal Ballet in Londonthe Bolshoi Ballet in Moscowand the Mariinsky Ballet in Saint Petersburg. Competition for admission into the Opera Ballet is extremely fierce.

French opera is widely revered throughout Europe. Unlike in the rest of EuropeItalian opera never gained a foothold in Francewhich instead developed its own unique operatic tradition. One such is the grand opérawhich combines opera and ballet into a single performance. Another is operettadeveloped by Jacques Offenbachwhich combines elements of comedylight-hearted musicand humour. Not only have French composers contributed to the development of French operabut so have foreign composers such as GluckRossiniVerdiand Meyerbeer.

Three of the most famous opera houses in the country are the Paris Opera in the beautiful Opéra Garnier building in Paris' Paris/9th arrondissementwhich mostly hosts balletsnowadays; the Opéra Bastille in a larger contemporary building in Paris' 12th; and the Grand Théâtre de Bordeauxone of the country's oldest. Howeveryou will see theatres and opera houses throughout the country.

Without a doubt the most popular spectator team sports in France (though not necessarily in that order) are rugby unionfootball and (European/team/olympic) handball with both strong domestic competition and a national side that has variously won Six Nationsworld cups and European championships and is usually to be reckoned with on a global level.

Cycling is another popular sport in Francewith many professional races taking place across the country throughout the year. The Tour de Francecycling's most prestigious racetakes place every July over three weeks. The race features a series of 21 full day stages along roads across France and typically covers 3,500 km. Although the Tour always finishes on the Champs-Élysées in Paristhe specific route to get there changes every year. The beginning of the race is known as the Grand Départa carnivalesque affair which regions across France and indeed around western Europe vie to host. The Tour is free to watch at all of its stages and is very accessible. It is best viewed at stage towns and at its most thrilling sections: mass sprints at the end of a flat stagecobbled sections and mountain climbswhere the atmosphere is greatest.

Disneyland Resort Paris is by far France's most popular parkvisited by families from all over the world.

Not yet under a protected statusbut highly popularis Mont Blancthe highest peak in Europe (unless you count the Caucasus) and attractive for climbinghiking and skiing. From the French sideit is mostly explored from Chamonixa well known resort at the foot of the mountain.

The Grande Randonnée network of paths for long-distance walking covers most of France. The famous pilgrimage Camino de Santiago includes many routes to Santiago de Compostela from France.

The French national parks don't have entry feesbut many sights require hiking to reach them. There are commercial lodgings and mountain lodges along the trails.

Vanoise National Park is the oldest and one of the largest parksnamed after the Vanoise massif. Its highest peak is the Grande Casse at 3,855 m.

The impressive natural landscapes of Pyrénées National Park are right on the southern border of France and extend well into Spain. The whole area is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. In the French partthe glacial cirques of GavarnieEstaubé and Troumouse are some of the best sightsas is the wall of Barroud.

The again mountainous Cévennes National Park covers partsOccitanie (including the popular Ardèche) and the Auvergene-Rhône-Alpes regions. The park's main offices are in the castle of Floracbut there are towns all over the park. Donkey rides are available and the cave formation of Aven Armand is one of the park's best sights.

French people have a large number of paid holidays a year (and often contractual overtime is compensated for with extra paid leave) and it is almost compulsory for French people to take time off in summerwith French society divided between those who go on holiday in July (juilletistes) vs the larger number who go on holiday in August (aoûtiens). As a resultlarge cities become noticeably less busy and large parts of the Paris transport network are often shut down during the summer for planned engineering works. Outside of tourist areasmany of the smaller shops (butcher shopsbakeries...) will be closed during parts of August. This also applies to many corporations as well as physicians. Howeverin touristy areasshops will tend to be open when the tourists comeespecially July and August. In contrastmany attractions will be awfully crowded during those monthsand during the Easter weekend.

Some attractionsespecially in rural areasclose or have reduced opening hours outside the tourist season.

Mountainous areas tend to have two tourist seasons: in the winterfor skiingsnowshoeing and other snow-related activitiesand in the summer for sightseeing and hiking.

France uses the eurolike several other European countries. One euro is divided into 100 cents. The official symbol for the euro is €and its ISO code is EUR. There is no official symbol for the cent.

All banknotes and coins of this common currency are legal tender within all the countriesexcept that low-denomination coins (one and two cent) are phased out in some of them. The banknotes look the same across countrieswhile coins have a standard common design on the reverseexpressing the valueand a national country-specific design on the obverse. The obverse is also used for different designs of commemorative coins. The design of the obverse does not affect the coin's acceptability.

Just as with other non-English European languagesthe comma and decimal separator have reverse functions in French from that in Englishso 2,99 means 2 euro and 99 cents. By conventionthe euro symbol is either placed at the end of the entire price (2,99€) or between the whole number and the decimal portions of the price in lieu of the decimal comma (2€99).

Some foreign currenciessuch as the U.S. dollar and the British poundare occasionally acceptedespecially in tourist areas and in higher-end placesbut one should not count on it; furthermorethe cashier may charge an unfavourable exchange rate. In generalshops will refuse transactions in foreign currency.

It is compulsoryfor the large majority of businessesto post prices in windows. Hotels and restaurants must have their rates visible from outside. Howevermany hotels offer lower prices than the posted ones if they feel they will have a hard time filling up their rooms; the posted price is only a maximum.

Almost all storesrestaurants and hotels accept debit cards from VisaMastercardand French CB bank cards. American Express tends to be accepted only in high-end shops. Retailers will post by the till if there is a minimum spend required before using the card. Check with your bank for applicable fees; typicallybanks apply the wholesale inter-bank exchange ratewhich is the best availablebut may slap on a fee.

French credit and debit have a "smart chip" on them allowing PIN authentication of transactions. Some automatic vending machines may be compatible only with cards with the microchip. In additioncashiers unaccustomed to foreign cards or VISA and MasterCard gift cards possibly do not know that such cards may need to be swiped and a signature obtainedwhile French customers systematically use PIN and don't sign the transactions. The acceptance of contactless cards is also becoming widespread.

There is practically no way to get a cash advance in France using a credit card without a PIN – contact your card issuer before you start your journey if you don't have one already.

Automatic teller machines (ATMs; locally known as GABsguichets automatiques bancaires) are by far the best way to get cash in France. They all accept French CB bank cardsVisaMasterCardCirrus and Plus and are plentiful throughout France. They may accept other kinds of card; check for the logos on the ATM and on your card if at least one matches. It is possible that some machines do not handle 6-digit PIN codesor that they do not offer the choice between different accountsdefaulting on your current or checking account. Although French cash machines do not generally impose feesyour home bank may do soso please check with it before using (see Money#Card usage fees).

Traveller's cheques are difficult to use – most merchants will not accept themand exchanging them may involve finding a bank that accepts to exchange them and possibly paying a fee.

The postal service doubles as a bankso often post offices will have an ATM. As a resulteven minor towns will have ATMs usable with foreign cards.

Bureaux de change are now rarer with the advent of the euro – they will in general only be found in towns with a significant foreign tourist presencesuch as Paris. Some banks exchange moneyoften with high fees. The Bank of France no longer does foreign exchange.

Do put money into your checking accountcarry an ATM card with a Cirrus or Plus logo on it and a 4-digit pin that does not start with '0' and withdraw cash from ATMs. Pay larger transactions with Visa or MasterCard. Always carry some euros cash for emergencies.

Don't rely on exchanging foreign currency or traveller's cheques on the goor expect them to be accepted at businesses.

Tips are not expected in France since service charges are included in the bill. HoweverFrench people usually leave the small change left after paying the bill or one to five euros if they were satisfied with the service quality.

In towns and city centresyou always will find smaller shopschain grocery stores (Casino) as well asoccasionallydepartment stores and small shopping malls. Residential areas will often have small supermarkets (such as Carrefour Market or Intermarché). Large supermarkets (hypermarchés such as AuchanCarrefourE.LeclercGéant Casino) are mostly on the outskirts of towns and are probably not useful unless you have access to a car.

Prices are indicated with all taxes (namelythe TVAor value-added tax) included. It is possible for non-EU residents to get a partial refund upon departure from certain stores that have a "tax-free shopping" sticker; inquire within. TVA is 20% on most thingsbut 10% on some things such as booksrestaurant mealsand public transport and 5.5% on food purchased from grocery stores (except for sweets!). Alcoholic beverages are always taxed at 20%regardless of where they're purchased.

French waiters have a reputation for being rudebut this is largely undeserved. While there are certainly a few bad ones who will seemingly go to any length to demonstrate their contempt for you as a customermost perceptions of rudeness are simply down to travellers having certain expectations of service which are different to the French cultural norm.

Important differences from some other countries follow. In France the customer does not come first. You are not always rightyour every whim does not have to be indulgedand the amount of money you flash will not entitle you to a superior service to others in the room. The vast majority of restaurants in France are privately-owned independentswith all the proprietary pride that entails; you as the customer are nothing more than a temporary guest in the restaurateur's home. That means you will be treated wellas long as you are polite and follow a few house rules. Humility and a sense of humour when mistakes happen can both go a long way in this game!

Upon arrival at a restaurantmake sure you greet the staff with a bonjour (in the day) or bonsoir (at night). Wait at the door to be shown to your table. Seating yourself without being invited to do so is often taken to be presumptuousand may result in your getting off on the wrong foot before you can even say bonjour. Asking for a dish to be changed for any reason is unusual and can be taken as a criticism of chef's cooking. If you don't like how a particular dish is preparedor can't eat one of the ingredientsorder something else. There is a reason the full menu is posted on every restaurant door: to allow people to get an idea of what is on offer in advance of making a commitment to eat there. While diningit is considered impolite to have your elbows on the table; ditto for laying your hands in your lap. If you are given a glass or a cup with your beverageuse it.

Waitering is a respected profession in France. In the French psychea good waiter is there to make sure you receive your meal and drinks in the proper mannerand then to keep out of your way so you can enjoy yourself in peace. If you need somethingyou're more than welcome to askbut don't expect to be approached during your mealor for your needs to be anticipated in advance. Above alldon't address your waiter as garçon (boy)as this is demeaning and about a century out-of-date etiquette-wise. A simple excusez-moi is more than sufficient to attract the server's attention. One way to ensure good service is to ask the waiter's recommendations for wine or to point out any local specialities on the menu; this shows that you respect their expertise and gives you the opportunity to learn more about the local cuisine.

You can show your appreciation at the end by leaving a small tip. Tipping is neither compulsory nor expected as the serving staff receive a full wageand many establishments factor a 10% service charge into the price of the food (this is signalled with service compris printed on the bill or menu). Most French peoplewhen deciding to tipwill just round up the bill to the next multiple of five – if a bill comes to €46call it €50 and everyone's happy.

Bakeries (boulangeries) are something of a French institution and are to be found all over the country from the smallest villages to city streets. These are usually reasonably pricedand a good option for backpackers on a shoestring budget. All white bread variants keep for only a short time and must be eaten the same dayor else saved for dunking in soup or hot chocolate the following morning. Hence bakers bake at least twice a day.

• The famous baguette: a longthin loaf;
• Variants of the baguette : la ficelle (even thinner)la flûtela tradition (a baguette with a generally more delicate taste but also more expensive);
• Pain de campagne or Pain complet: made from whole grain which keeps relatively well.

Pastries are a large part of French cooking. Hotel breakfasts tend to be lightconsisting of tartines (pieces of bread with butter or jam) or the famous croissants and pains au chocolatnot dissimilar to a chocolate-filled croissantbut square rather than crescent shaped.

Pastries can be found in a pâtisserie but also in most boulangeries.

Every French region has dishes all its own. These dishes follow the region's local produce from agriculturehunting and fishing. Here is a small list of regional dishes which you can find easily in France. Generally each region has a unique and widespread dishusually because it was food for the masses:

• Cassoulet (in the south west) : beansduckpork & sausages
• Choucrouteor sauerkraut (in Alsace) : stripped fermented cabbage + pork
• Fondue Savoyarde (central Alps) : melted/hot cheese with white wine
• Fondue Bourguignonne (in Burgundy) : pieces of beef (in boiled oil)usually served with a selection of various sauces.
• Raclette (central Alps) : melted cheese & potatoes/meat
• Pot-au-feu (found all over France) : boiled beef with vegetables
• Boeuf Bourguignon (Burgundy) : slow cooked beef with red wine gravy
• Gratin dauphinois (Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes) : oven-roasted slices of potatoes with sour cream and cheese
• Aligot (Aveyron) : melted cheese mixed with a puree of potatoes
• Bouillabaisse (fish + saffron) (Marseille and the French Riviera). Don't be fooled! A real bouillabaisse is a really expensive dish due to the amount of fresh fish it requires. Be prepared to pay at least €30 per person. If you find restaurants claiming to serve bouillabaisse for something like €15 per personyou'll find it to be of a very poor quality.
• Tartiflette (Savoie) : Melted Reblochon cheesepotatoes and pork or bacon.
• Confit de Canard (south west) : Duck Confitconsists of legs and wings bathing in grease. That grease is actually very healthy andwith red wineis one of the identified sources of the so-called "French Paradox" (eat richlylive long).
• Foie Gras (south west) : The liver of a duck or goose. Although usually quite expensivefoie gras can be found in supermarkets for a lower price (because of their purchasing power) around the Christmas season. It is the time of year when most foie gras is consumed in France. It goes very well with Champagne.
• Moules marinière (found all along the coastwith large regional differences) : Mussels steamed in wine or cider (Brittany and Normandy) with a variety of local producee.g. simple shallots and garlic in the northcream in the westtomatoes and peppers in the southetc... Normally served with crusty bread and frites.

Cooking and drinking is a notable part of French culture; take time to eat and discover new dishes.

Contrary to stereotypesnails and frog legs are quite infrequent foods in Francewith many French people enjoying neitheror sometimes having never even tasted them. Quality restaurants sometimes have them on their menu: if you're curious about trying new foodsgo ahead.

• Frog legs (cuisses de grenouille) have a very fine and delicate taste with flesh that is not unlike chicken. They are often served in a garlic dressing and are no weirder to eat thansaycrab.
• Most of the taste of Burgundy snails (escargots de bourgogne) comes from the generous amount of buttergarlic and parsley in which they are cooked. They have a very particular spongy-leathery texture andfor obvious reasonsa strong garlicky flavour. Catalan- snails (cargols) are made a completely different wayand taste even weirder!

Let us also cite:

• Rillettes sarthoises also known as Rillettes du Mans. A sort of potted meatmade from finely shredded and spiced pork. A delicious speciality of the Sarthe area in the north of the Pays de la Loire and not to be confused with rillettes from other areaswhich are more like a rough pâté.
• Beef bone marrow (os à moelle). Generally served in small quantitieswith a large side. So go ahead: if you don't like ityou'll have something else to eat on your plate!
• Veal sweetbread (ris de veau)is a very fine (and generally expensive) delicacyoften served with morelsor in more elaborate dishes like bouchées à la reine.
• Beef bowels (tripes) is served either à la mode de Caen (with a white wine saucenamed after the town in Normandy) or à la catalane (with a slightly spiced tomato sauce)
• Andouillettes are sausages made from tripea specialty of Lyon
• Tricandilles are seasoned and grilled pork tripe from the Bordeaux region
• Beef tongue (langue de bœuf) and beef nose (museau) and Veal head (tête de veau) are generally eaten cold (but thoroughly cooked!) as an appetiser.
• Oysters (huîtres) are most commonly served raw in a half shell. They are often graded by sizeNo1 being the largest (and most expensive).
• Oursins (sea urchins)for those who like concentrated iodine.
• Steak tartare a big patty of ground beef cured in acid as opposed to cookedfrequently served with a raw egg. Good steak tartare will be prepared to order at tableside. A similar dish is boeuf carpacciowhich is thin slices or strips of raw steak drizzled with olive oil and herbs.
• Cervelle (pronounced ser-VELL)lamb brain.

France is certainly the country for cheese (fromage)with nearly 400 different kinds. Indeedformer president General Charles De Gaulle was quoted as saying "How can you govern a country which has 365 varieties of cheese?".

Vegetarianism is not as uncommon as it used to beespecially in larger cities. Stillfew "traditional" restaurants offer vegetarian menus; if you ask for something vegetarian the only things they may have available are salad and vegetable side dishes. Alsothose that do have vegetarian mains often don't have them on the menu fixeso you may have to pick something à la cartewhich is usually more expensive. When asking for vegetarian optionswatch out for confusion between vegetarianism and pescetarianism.

Luckily North African cuisine is very popular in Francecouscous is one of the most popular dishes in France (especially in Eastern France)it is widely available and there are usually vegetarian couscous options. Alsovegetarian and organic food restaurants are starting to appear.

Veganismwhilst on the riseis still very uncommon and it may be difficult to find vegan eateries. Nonethelessthe French vegan community made vegoresto.fr to help find vegan food and restaurantsand the American website HappyCow also lists 6600 restaurants as of January 2024. Paris has one of the fastest growing vegan communities in Europeso you should be able to find vegan restaurants.

Pretty much every town has at least one halal restaurant or takeawayand many also have halal butchers. Kosher (look for signs with kashercachère and other similar words) restaurants and shops are less common outside the large cities.

Breakfast in France is usually very lighttypically consisting of a coffee and a croissant or some other viennoiserie at special occasions. On normal days most people have a beverage (coffeeteahot chocolateorange juice) and toast of baguette or toast bread with butter and jam/honey/Nutella that can be dipped in the hot beverageor cereals with milkor fruit and yoghurt. The French breakfast is mostly sweetbut anything can change and you can have savoury breakfasts everywhere today.

Hotels come in five categories from 1 to 5 stars. This is the official rating given by the Ministry of Tourismand it is posted at the entrance on a blue shield. Stars are awarded according to objective yet somewhat outdated administrative criteriasuch as area of the reception hallor percentage of rooms with en-suite bathroom.

Rates vary according to accommodationlocation and sometimes high or low season or special events.

All hotelsby lawmust have their maximum rates posted so that they're visible from outside. Bargaining for a cheaper room is not the norm but you can always ask for a discount.

Hotels in city centres or near train stations are often very small (15–30 rooms) which means that you should book ahead. Many newer hotelsbusiness orientedare found in the outskirts of cities and are sometimes larger structures (100 rooms or more); they may not be easy to reach with public transportation. The newer hotels are often part of national or international chains and have high standards. Many older hotels are now part of chains and provide standardised service but they retain their own atmosphere.

Along the autoroute (motorway) networkand at the entrance of citiesyou'll find US- motels; they are very often reachable only by car. Some motels (e.g. Formule 1) have minimal serviceif you come in late you find an ATM-like machineusing credit cardswhich will deliver a code in order to reach your assigned room.

In Frenchthe word hôtel doesn't always mean "hotel". It traditionally refers to private townhouses or mansionsas in the Hôtel de Soubise in Paris. The word also crops up in names for municipal officessuch as hôtel de ville (city hall) or hôtel de police (police HQ). If you ask directions to the nearest hotelpeople in the street will assume you mean guest accommodationbut signs for various buildings called hôtel won't necessarily be what you're looking for.

Throughout Francemainly in rural areas but also in towns and citiesyou can find B&Bs and different kinds of gîtes.

B&Bs are known in French as chambres d'hôte and are generally available on a night-by-night basis. By lawbreakfast must be included in the advertised price for a chambre d'hôte. Bear this in mind when comparing prices with hotelswhere breakfast is not included in the room price.

Gîtes or gîtes ruraux are holiday cottagesand generally rented out as a complete accommodation unit including a kitchenmostly on a weekly basis. Literally the French word gîte just means a place to spend the night; however it is now mostly used to describe rental cottages or self-catering holiday homesusually in rural parts of France. There are very few near or in the cities. Finding them requires buying a guide orfor greater choiceusing the internetas you will not find many signposted on the road.

Traditionallygîtes provided basic good value accommodationtypically adjacent to the owner's household or in a nearby outbuilding. The term can now also be used to describe most country-based self-catering accommodation in France. Hence it includes accommodation as varied as small cottages to villas with private swimming pools.

During peak summer months the best self-catering gîtes require booking several months in advance.

There are thousands of B&Bs and gîtes in France rented out by foreign ownersparticularly British and Dutchand these tend to be listedsometimes exclusivelywith English-language or international organisations and websites that can be found by keying the words "chambres d'hôtes""gîtes" or "gîtes de france" into any of the major search engines.

There is a large number of organisations and websites offering gîtes.

Travellers should definitely consider short-term villa/apartment/studio rentals as an alternative to other accommodation options. Short term can be as few as several days up to months at a stretch. Summer rentals are usually from Saturday to Saturday only (July and August). This type of accommodation belongs to a private partyand can range from basic to luxurious. A particular advantageaside from competitive pricesis that the accommodations come with fully fitted kitchens.

Hundreds of agencies offer accommodation for short term rentals on behalf of the ownerand can guide you into finding the best propertyat the best price in the most suitable location for you. An internet search for the location and type of property you're looking for will usually return the names of several listing siteseach of which may have hundreds or thousands of properties for you to choose from. There are plenty of sites in both English and Frenchand the rental properties may be owned by people of any nationality.

Well established holiday rental sites include Gitelink FranceHolidaylettings.co.ukOwners Direct and Alpha Holiday Lettings^{[dead link]}. If you are looking to stay in just a room or part of the propertyAirbnb matches holiday makers with hosts who only rent out part of their homes.

Camping is very common in France. Most camp sites are a little way out of town and virtually all cater not just for tents but also for camper vans and caravans. While all camp sites have the basic facilities of shower and toilet blockslarger sites tend to offer a range of additional facilities such as bars and restaurantsself-service launderettesswimming pools or bicycle hire. All camp sites except for very small 'farm camping' establishments must be registered with the authoritiesand are officially graded using a system of stars.

In coastal areasthree-star and four-star camp grounds must generally be booked in advance during the months of July and Augustand many people book from one year to the next. In rural areasoutside of popular tourist spotsit is usually possible to show up unannouncedand find a place; this is particularly true with the municipal camp sites that can be found in most small towns; though even then it may be advisable to call or email in advance to make sure. There are always exceptions.

In France it's forbidden to camp:

• in woodsnaturalregional and national parks
• on public roads and streets
• on beaches
• less than 200 metres from watering places used for human consumption
• on natural protected sites
• less than 500 metres from a protected monument
• everywhere where it's forbidden by local laws
• on private properties without the owner's consent.

Having said thatgenerallycamping in car parks near the beach is not prohibited and is a great way to be near the beach and camp for free. There are some comfy and less busy oneseven sometimes with shade aroundespecially in the evening after most other visitors have left.

Crime-related emergencies can be reported to the toll-free number 17 or 112 (European emergency telephone number). Law enforcement agencies are the National Police (Police nationale) in urban areas and the National Gendarmerie (Gendarmerie national) in the countrysidethough for minor crimes such as parking and traffic offences some towns and villages also have a municipal police force (Police municipale).

Though France remains among the safest countries in the worldcrime and insecurity have become a lot more common in the last few decades. Large metropolitan areas are plagued with the usual woesbut nowadays even small villages can have their share of crime. Violent crime against visitors is generally rarebut pickpocketingpurse-snatchingand muggings are commonand some of these may result in aggravated assaults. If the usual precautions against these are takenyou should be safe.

City centres and some (mostly wealthy) suburbs are usually safe at all hours. In large citiesespecially Paris and Marseillethere are a few areas which should be avoided. Parts of the suburbs are hives of youth gang-related activities and drug dealing; however these are almost always far from tourist areas and you should have no reason to visit them. Common sense applies: it is very easy to spot derelict areas. The subject of crime in poorer suburbs and areas is very touchyas it may easily have racist overtones or interpretationssince many people associate it with working-class youth of Arab and African origins. You should not express an opinion on the issue unless you know who you're talking to.

While it is not compulsory for French citizens to carry identificationthey usually do so. Foreigners should carry some kind of official identity document. Although random checks are not the normyou may be asked for ID in some kinds of situationsfor example if you cannot show a valid ticket when using public transportation; not having one in such cases will result in you being taken to a police station for further checks. Even if you feel that law enforcement officers have no right to check your identity (they can do so only in certain circumstances)it is a bad idea to enter a legal discussion with them; it is better to put up with it and show your ID. Againthe subject is sensitive as the police have often been accused of targeting people according to criteria of ethnicity.

Due to the international threat of terrorismpolice with the help of military units often patrol monumentsthe Paris Metrotrain stations and airports. Depending on the status of the "Vigipirate" plan (anti terrorist units) it is not uncommon to see armed patrols in those areas. The presence of police should be of help to touristsas it also deters pickpockets and the like. Howeversuspicious behaviourpublic disturbancesetc.may attract police officers' attention for the wrong reasons.

In Francefailing to offer assistance to 'a person in danger' is a criminal offence in itself. This means that if you fail to stop upon witnessing a motor accidentfail to report such an accident to emergency servicesor ignore appeals for help or urgent assistanceyou may be charged. Penalties include a suspended prison sentence and fines. The law does not apply in situations where answering an appeal for help might endanger your life or the lives of others.

Carrying or using narcotic substancesfrom marijuana to hard drugsis illegal whatever the quantity. The penalty can be severe especially if you are suspected of dealing. Trains and cars coming from countries which have a more lenient attitude (such as the Netherlands) are especially targeted. Police have often been known to stop entire coaches and search every passenger and their bags thoroughly.

France has a liberal policy with respect to alcohol; there are usually no ID checks for purchasing alcohol (unless you look much younger than 18). Howevercausing problems due to public drunkenness is a misdemeanor and may result in a night spent in the cells of a police station. Drunk driving is a severe offence and may result in heavy fines and jail sentences.

A little etiquette note: while it is common to drink beer straight from the bottle at informal meetingsdoing the same with wine is normally only done by tramps (clochards).

France is well known for its demonstrations (manifestations)especially on May Day (May1st). Some of them can be violent because of vandals (named "black blocs") and some other violent groups. Vigilance and avoidance of places where a demonstration occurs is advised.

Tap water (eau du robinet) is drinkableexcept in rare cases such as in rural rest areas and sinks in railway carriage toiletsin which case it will be clearly signposted as eau non potable. Eau potable is drinkable water (you mayhowevernot like the taste and prefer bottled water).

Tap water is generally acceptable in tastebut mineral water (eau minérale) is generally considered to taste betterexcept in areas that use mountain water from the Alps for their municipal supply. Cristaline is cheap and available mostly everywhereand many locals consider them nothing special. You may find Vittel a more interesting-tasting inexpensive French mineral waterand Badoita sparkling wateris quite good.

Health care in France is of a very high standard.

Pharmacies are denoted by a green crossusually in flashing neon (or LED). They sell medicinecontraceptivesand often beauty and related products (though these can be very expensive). Medicines must be ordered from the countereven non-prescription medicines. The pharmacist may ask you questions about your symptoms and then can recommend various medicines and suggest generic drugs.

Since drug brand names vary across countries even though the effective ingredients stay the sameit is better to carry prescriptions using the international nomenclature in addition to the commercial brand name. Prescription drugsincluding oral contraceptives (aka "the pill")will only be delivered if a doctor's prescription is shown.

In additionsupermarkets sell condoms (préservatifs) and also often personal lubricantbandagesdisinfectant and other minor medical items. Condom machines are often found in bar toiletsetc.

Medical treatment can be obtained from self-employed physiciansclinics and hospitals. Most general practitionersspecialists (e.g. gynaecologists)and dentists are self-employed; look for signs saying Docteur (médecin généraliste means general practitioner). The normal price for a consultation with a general practitioner is €23though some physicians charge more (this is the full price and not a co-payment). Physicians may also do home callsbut these are more expensive.

Residents of the European Union are covered by the French social security systemwhich will reimburse or directly pay for 70% of health expenses (30% co-payment) in generalthough many physicians and surgeons apply surcharges. Other travellers are not covered and will be billed the full priceeven when at a public hospital; non-EU travellers should have travel insurance covering medical costs.

Hospitals will have an emergency room signposted Urgences.

The following numbers are toll-free:

• 15 Medical emergencies
• 17 Law enforcement emergencies (for e.g. reporting a crime)
• 18 Firefighters
• 112 European standard emergency number.

Operators at these numbers can transfer requests to other services if needed (e.g. some medical emergencies may be answered by firefighter groups).

Smoking is prohibited by law in all enclosed spaces accessible to the public (this includes train and metro carsstation enclosuresworkplacesrestaurants and cafés) and also outdoors in places frequented by children (parksbeachesbus stops)except in areas specifically designated for smokingand there are few of these. You may face a substantial fine if you are found smoking in these places.

As well as police officersmetro and train conductors can and do enforce the anti-smoking law and will fine you for smoking in non-designated places; if you encounter problems with a smoker on a trainyou may go find the conductor.

As hotels are not considered public placessome offer smoking and non-smoking rooms.

Only people over the age of 18 may purchase tobacco products. Shopkeepers may request a photo ID. A pack of 20 cigarettes costs around €10.20 (Nov 2020).

The Métro subway system is a great way to get around Paris (or LyonMarseilleetc.)a fact which is readily apparent by the throngs of people that use it to get to workschooland the like. If you do not ride the train at homeor if you come from a place that doesn't have a subway systemthere are certain points of etiquette that you may not be aware of:

• When boarding at the stationlet those exiting the train step off onto the platform before boardingand once aboard move to the centre of the car.
• If you have luggagemove it as far out of the path of others as possible.
• Certain stations have moving walkways to cover the distances between platforms – walk on the left and stand on the right!
• Finallythe doors on French subway cars don't generally open automatically once the train has stopped at the station; rathermost cars have a small button or lever on the doors that opens them. If you happen to be standing near the door in a crowded caryou might hear someone behind you say "la portes'il vous plait," which means that they would like to get off the train and is asking you to open the door for them. Pop the door open and step aside (or down onto the platform) while that person exits the train; the driver will wait for you to get back on.

The French consider it very rude to be loud in a crowded indoor placesuch as a museum or restaurantand you can expect to be told off for doing so.

Dress codes are fast disappearingbut generally speakingthe French are conservative dressers. To avoid being seen in a negative lightyou should avoid baseball capstracksuitsshorts (except in summer) and flip-flops (except at the beach).

At the beach and at hotel swimming poolit is normal for women to take off their bikini tops while sunbathing. Taking off your bikini bottom is reserved to designated nude beaches. Most resort cities insist on your wearing a shirt when leaving the beach area.

Everyone at public swimming pools is required by law to wear suitable swimming attire. This means swim caps (even if you're bald) and snug-fitting Lycra-based swimsuits. Baggy or "board" swim shorts are bannedas are T-shirtsUV-protective rash guardsand other cover-ups. If you're unlucky in your choicethen most public pools sell pre-approved swimsuits from vending machines on-siteoften for rather inflated prices. Watch also for local prohibitions on sunscreenwhich can mess with older pools' filtration systems.

Breastfeeding in public is very rarebut nobody will mind if you do.

The French language has two variants of the word "you". They are tuwhich is used for friends and (by some elderly) for young peopleand vouswhich is used for people you're not on familiar terms withand for groups of people. As a general rulethe only time you should use tu with an adult is if that person indicates it's alright to do sousually by saying On peut se tutoyer.

Politics:

• Unless you really follow French news closelyyou should steer clear of discussing French politicsespecially sensitive issues such as immigration. Be aware of the position that being a foreigner puts you in. It is considered rude to ask a person point-blank about which candidate they voted for in an election; insteadtalk about the issues and take it from there.
• The status of ethnic minoritiesespecially immigrants from North and West Africain France is a sensitive issue. Many ethnic French resent immigrant communities for not fully assimilating into French culture while converselymany immigrants and their descendants resent French society for what they see as lack of respect for their respective ethnic cultures. Avoiding discussions on this is good policy.

Religion:

• It is generally considered impolite to have a conversation about religion with someone you do not know well. The French are fiercely protective of their tradition of secularism (laïcité). For instancethe wearing of religious items of clothingsuch as hijabskippas or crucifixesis illegal for public servants when they are at workand for all students and staff at public schools. It is also illegal to cover your face in publicwhich effectively outlaws the burqa (and masksbalaclavas etc.) This has been interpreted by some as an anti-Muslim law.
• France remains a majority Roman Catholic countrythough due to the culture of secularismreligion plays virtually no role in French public lifeand church attendance levels are among the lowest in the world. Howevermany French people are still proud of their historic churchesand you are still expected to behave in a respectful manner when visiting them.

Money:

• Avoid being showy with displaying or discussing money and luxury goods. It is considered to be quite crass to discuss your salaryor to ask someone else directly about theirs. Instead express your enthusiasm about how great are the responsibilitiesor how lucky you were to get thereetc.

City/rural differences:

• While roughly one sixth of the country's population lives in the Paris regiondon't treat France as Paris or assume that all French people act like Parisians. Life in Paris can be closer to life in London or New York City than in the rest of Franceand Parisian customs and opinions differ from those found en province. BrittanyCorsica and the Basque Country in particular have their own national identities.

To call a French number from abroaddial the international prefix + 33 + local number without the leading 0. For example: +33 2 47 66 41 18

All French numbers have 10 digits. The first two digits are:

• 01 for the Paris region02 for the northwest03 for the northeast04 for southeast05 for southwest,
• 06 and 07 for cellphones
• 08 have special prices that can be deduced from the two following figures: from 08 00freeto very costly (as far as €20.40 per hour)08 99.
• 09 if they are attached to voice-over IP telephones connected to DSL modems from French DSL providers that integrate such functions.

You cannot drop the first two digits even if your call remains within the same area. The initial '0' may be replaced by some other digit or longer code indicating a choice of long-distance operator. Don't use this unless explicitly told to.

When telling someone their phone numberpeople will usually group the digits by sets of two. For example02 47 76 41 94 will be said as "zéro deuxquarante-septsoixante-seizequarante-et-unquatre-vingt-quatorze". The two-digit pair 00 is said as "zéro zéro"not "double zéro". If you find it too hard to followyou may ask the person to say the number digit-by-digit ("chiffre par chiffre"). It would then be "zérodeuxquatreseptseptsixquatreunneufquatre".

To enjoy cheap international calls from France travellers can get a local SIM card online before they leave or use low-cost dial-around services. Dial-around services are directly available from any landline in France. No contract or registration is required. Most dial-around services allows you to call the USACanadaWestern Europe and many other countries at the local rate (tarif local). They also work from payphonesthough the first minute is surcharged by France Télécom.

If you need a landline (ligne fixe) in Franceuse VoIP over DSLsuch as the Livebox or Freebox service (free long distance calls within France and to a number of countries).

Phone booths have been largely removed. You may still find one in some rural areas. Most use a card (no coins). They accept French CB bank cardsVisa or MasterCard cards but almost always only with a microchip.

France uses the GSM standard of cellular phones (900 MHz and 1800 MHz bands) used in most of the world outside of the U.S. Many companies (e.g.OrangeSFRFreeBouygues TélécomVirgin Mobile) offer wireless service. The country is almost totally covered but you may have difficulties using your mobile phone in rural or mountainous areas. Howeverfor emergency numbersthe three companies are required by law to accept your call if they are able toeven if you are not one of their customers.

If you stay for some timeit may be advisable to buy a pre-paid cell phone card that you can use in any phone that supports the GSM standard on the 900/1800 MHz bands. Then incoming calls and SMSes are free. You can get it from most mobile service providersbut they have a very short validity for the card if you don't recharge it. The SIM has to be activatedusually online. Identification may be needed.

An Orange pre-paid SIM card is called a Mobicartecosts €9.90 and comes with a credit of €5 included. SMSes within Orange France cost €0.12; to international mobile GSM users €0.28. Other operators (SFRBouygues) have similar prices. The mobile operator Free offers €2/month subscription without any minimum subscription time including 120 minutes per month50 MB internetand unlimited national SMSes (as of Oct 2020). This is only available through the web and you need a postal address.

If you have an existing subscription with an EU-based mobile provideryou should be able to use at least some of your bundled minutesSMSand data in France at no extra cost. This should save you the hassle of purchasing another SIM and a prepaid bundle. See European Union#Connect and check with the provider of the SIM.

Internet cafés: Internet access is available in cyber cafés all over large and medium-sized cities. Service is usually around €4 per hour.

Residential broadband: In all major citiesthere are multiple companies offering residential broadband service. Typical prices are €30 a month for unmetered ADSL (with speeds of up to 24 megabits per second)digital HDTV over DSL and free unlimited voice-over-IP phone calls to land lines within France and about twenty other countries (including the EUand the U.S.) with external SIP access too (the price includes a modem/router/switch with integrated WiFi MiMo access point).

Wi-Fi: You'll also find wi-fi access (in cities and towns) in a lot of cafés usually those that are a bit trendy. There will be a sign on the door or on the wall. Also look for the @ symbol prominently displayedwhich indicates internet availability. Howevercyber cafés are increasingly hard to findespecially outside the major cities. Alsocheck out Carrefourmost of them have free Wi-Fi. Wi-Fi is prounonced "wee-fee" in France even by English speakers. Asking for "wye-fie" will generally not be understood.

Post offices ("La Poste") are found in all cities and villages but their opening hours vary. In the main cities the central office may be open during lunchtime; typically the day's opening hours are 09:00 to 18:00. Most offices are only open on Saturday morning and there is only one office in Paris which is open 24 hours and 365 days (on the Rue du Louvre). Street posting boxes are yellow.

International delivery services like FedEx and UPS are available in citieshowever you generally have to call them for them to come to you as they have very few physical locations. Another option is to simply use La Poste with a wide network around the country and the same services as its competitors.

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