travel advisory for paris 2022

Is Paris Safe in 2024 and Beyond? And Should You Travel to France Now?

Last Updated on August 19, 2024

Many travelers want to know whether Paris is still safe to visit– and their concerns are understandable. Following isolated terrorist attacks and occasionally-violent street demonstrations in recent years, worries about the safety of the French capital have become more common.

But the truth is that Paris generally remains a safe destination, and with some precautions in mind all visitors should feel comfortable traveling to the capital. Read on for the latest information on travel advisories and precautions to take when visiting France, and for my full safety tips for anyone planning a trip to Paris.

I start by covering some of the topics most likely to be on travelers’ minds, followed by more long-term safety issues and concerns. You can use the “Explore This Article” tab below to directly navigate to the information of most immediate interest and use to you.

Explore This Article

Current Safety Advisories for Paris & France

The US State Department currently shows a yellow, Level 2 travel warning for France, corresponding to the advice “Exercise increased caution” and citing risks including terrorism and potential civil unrest. See the full advisory here .

Traveling from another country? To see current safety advisories for your country of origin and specific safety tips from your Embassy or Consulate in France, see this page.

Statistically Speaking, Paris Remains Very Safe

The Economist-sponsored “Safe Cities” report for 2021 ranked Paris as the 23rd-safest major city in the world out of 60– making it almost exactly middling. And while the city has admittedly taken a significant knockdown in global city safety ratings due to recent terrorist attacks and other factors, violent crime is still generally uncommon in the capital.

OSAC, the US Bureau of Diplomatic Security,  notes tha t tourists are generally safe in the city, and that street crime such as pickpocketing remains the primary concern. These notes are particularly striking and paint a clearer picture of the sorts of crimes visitors need to be most on guard against:

According to the Violent Crime Risk Index (ViCRI), a resource for urban-level violence risk data and ratings, Paris ranks as a class 2 city on an 11-point index scale measuring homicide, aggravated assault, robbery, and rape risks. Street crime, however, is a concern, most notably in areas frequented by tourists. Consular officials throughout France report that U.S. travelers are frequently victims of pickpockets, swarm and grabs, or scams. (OSAC, France Country Security Report, available here )

To summarize the data above, Paris ranks a “2” on a scale reaching up to “11” when it comes to violent crime. Street crime targeting tourists is the greatest concern.

Moreover, violent crimes rates in France are  roughly on par with Canada’s , and are three times lower than in the US.

According to French government statistics, even when taking into account deaths from terrorist attacks, the homicide rate in Paris per 1,000 inhabitants between 2015 and 2017 was only 0.019 (0.014 if you exclude the attacks).

You get my drift. Violent crime, and especially the sort that threatens lives, is relatively rare in Paris.  Gun violence there is astronomically lower than it is in comparably sized cities in the US.

And while the US State Department website advises that tourists remain aware of their surroundings and exercise caution due to potential terrorist threats, take note:  they don’t recommend cancelling your trip or avoiding the city.

My conclusion? Yes, there are some risks that can’t be denied.  Most large metropolitan cities, including London and New York, carry similar risks in our globalized world. Should you avoid setting foot in these places altogether?

Everyone has to make choices that they feel comfortable with, but from my perspective, you’d be greatly overestimating the dangers you face by doing so.

Pickpocketing is the Most Common Crime Affecting Tourists in Paris

I’ve already discussed the unlikelihood of tourists becoming victims of violent crime in Paris. However, this doesn’t mean that you don’t risk being targeted for petty street crimes that can still make your trip a nightmare.

As already touched on above, pickpocketing is by far the biggest threat to visitors, so before your trip you should learn how thieves operate and take all the precautions necessary to avoid being targeted.

How to Avoid Pickpockets in Paris? 

Pickpockets operate in predictable and often highly organized ways, targeting tourists in crowded and popular areas. Often, they get away with your wallet or purse so quickly that you barely feel a thing. To keep this from happening, take these steps: In any crowded place (busy lines, congested metro cars, open spaces full of tourists snapping photos), take extra care with your belongings.

It’s best to carry a bag or purse that you can wear crisscrossed around your chest, with pockets and valuables hugged to your front and in plain view. If you wear a backpack, don’t leave wallets, cash, passports or other valuable items in the front compartments.

Only bring as much cash as you’ll likely need for the day, and maybe even less.  100 Euros or so is a good limit to aim for. Traveler’s checks can easily be exchanged for Euros at the American Express office on Rue Scribe (Metro: Opera).

If you must carry larger amounts of cash, consider wearing a money belt .

It’s always preferable to leave passports , large amounts of cash and other valuables in a hotel safe, if possible.

Never leave your bags or suitcases unattended , even for a minute or two. Not only do you run the risk of them being swiped up by thieves between two blinks of an eye: they can also be legally confiscated and destroyed by security forces, under current safety regulations in public spaces.

What About ATM Thefts and Other Scams? 

In addition to pickpockets, tourists are often targeted by scammers and thieves in other ways. ATMs/cashpoints are particularly vulnerable spots. Never allow anyone to linger nearby when you take out cash, and guard against prying eyes.

Never let anyone “help” you with a transaction at an ATM, or otherwise interfere with it. Ask the intrusive person to back off, and if they refuse, find another place to take out cash.

Around popular tourist attractions including the Sacre Coeur, the Louvre and the Eiffel Tower, merchants operating illegally are known to aggressively “persuade” tourists to buy their wares.

This often involves putting an object or trinket in your hand or inviting you to “try on” a bracelet.

{Our Top Tips for Avoiding Common Tourist Scams & Traps in Paris}

Once you give in, a demand for payment often follows. Avoid this by refusing all advances from such “vendors” and not allowing them to place any items in or on your hand.

General Safety Concerns: Putting Your Risks Into Perspective

With what seem to be frequent reports of violent incidents in the capital over the past few years, it can indeed feel scary to be a visitor these days. But there have been exaggerated accounts in some media outlets about the dangers tourists face when visiting Paris.

But in a modern world where there are many complex risks to weigh and negotiate all the time, it’s important to put those risks into perspective. It’s not about discounting potential danger. It’s about recognizing that life must go on– and that living in fear shrinks your world and its possibilities.

So before you cancel your trip or decide on another destination out of fear that you may be the victim of a terrorist attack or some other form of violent crime, read through my advice below.

As I’ve said elsewhere, Paris greatly depends on tourism to thrive as a city. It would be catastrophic to its livelihood to see too many people stay away and renounce all the capital has to offer out of a disproportionate sense of fear.

That said, staying informed about potential risks is an important part of feeling empowered as a traveler. Below are a few notes on recent incidents and safety concerns for tourists in the capital, with guidance on whether they warrant postponing or canceling your trip.

Covid-19 Cases & Deaths in France & Current Travel Safety Regulations

In France, according to updated  data from the French government , there have been over 40.1 million confirmed cases since January 2020.

As of August 2024, over 167,642 people have died from COVID-19 in France. Most patients were elderly and/or had pre-existing conditions. Please note that the government is no longer regularly offering updated statistics, so these may not be entirely accurate at the time of reading.

On August 1st, 2022, France lifted most Covid-related restrictions on travel and travelers . There are no longer any paperwork or formalities to complete to arrive in mainland or overseas France, and no Covid-19 certificates or proof of vaccination are required at this time, irrespective of country or area of origin.

However, should a dangerous variant become of major concern, France reserves the right to reinstate health measures such as vaccine certificates or passes for travelers from at-risk countries.

You can find updated information on current entry requirements and restrictions for France at this page on the France Diplomacy website . Please do consult that site in addition to this page for the most recent guidelines; while we do aim to update this page as frequently as possible, the regulations have been changing frequently.

“Gilet Jaune” (Yellow Vest) Protests & French Transport Strikes

Starting in late December 2018, smaller groups of “gilets jaunes” (yellow vest) protestors  staged demonstrations in Paris, almost exclusively on Saturdays. Some saw demonstrators throw rocks, burn cars and break store windows. But starting in late May 2019, the protests simmered out , in part due to a much heavier police presence.

Since late 2019, the protests have occurred sporadically and at a much smaller scale. They are not currently a concern for travelers to the capital or elsewhere in France. Even when civil unrest was at its peak in 2018 and 2019, it’s important to remember that tourists have not been injured or otherwise endangered by these protests.

Protecting Your Health in Paris

No one intends to get sick or suffer from an accident while traveling, but preparing for such unfortunate events will give you peace of mind and save you from outlandish medical costs.

Many international travel insurance policies cover up to millions of dollars in medical costs and liabilities, and can offer peace of mind.  You can compare and purchase travel insurance policies here (via World Nomads).

[World Nomads provides travel insurance for travelers in over 100 countries. As an affiliate, we receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads using the link above. We do not represent World Nomads. This is information only and not a recommendation to buy travel insurance.]

Emergency Numbers to Keep With You in France If you run into a medical or other emergency, call one of the toll-free numbers below from any phone, and contact your embassy. It’s wise to print out these numbers and keep them with you at all times: Medical Emergencies & Accidents: 15 Fire brigade: 18 Police: 17 SOS Médecins (on-call doctors): 01 47 07 77 77 SOS Dentaire (dentists): 01 43 37 51 00 SOS burns: 01 58 41 41 41

Note that in most cases, calling “15” is the best thing to do in a medical emergency. If you have been the victim of a violent crime or other crime, it will be necessary to both inform the French police and to file a report with your embassy.

If you need a pharmacy in Paris, identify them by their green flashing crosses. Most neighborhoods in the city have at least one pharmacy within a few blocks’ radius. These pharmacies are open late or 24 hours a day , in case you need to seek advice from a pharmacist or purchase medical supplies late at night.

This can especially be useful to know if you’re traveling with a young baby or toddler, since young ones sometimes require quick treatment, and pharmacists are often able to provide expert advice or recommend and sell over-the-counter medications that you can’t buy directly off the shelves.

Safety for Pedestrians in Paris 

While Paris is generally a very pedestrian-friendly city– the local government has been working to increase the number of car-free zones around the capital in recent years– drivers can be aggressive, posing a danger to walkers.

My advice? Take a defensive approach when crossing streets and busy intersections, checking for cars even when the light is green and/or when you have the right of way.

In areas that appear to be pedestrian-only, watch out for cars and aggressive motorcylists: some areas that are “car-“free” still allow motorcyclists, service vehicles and cyclists.

What About Driving in Paris? 

I generally advise against trying to drive in central Paris. Parisian drivers can be aggressive and unpredictable (by many standards), and traffic conditions are often congested and unpleasant.

If you have to drive, your international driver’s license and insurance must be up to date. Also make sure you understand the local rules of the road.

And unless you’re used to European traffic circles, you should avoid, at all costs, driving around busy traffic circles such as the one at the Place de l’Etoile on the Avenue des Champs-Elysées.

If you do opt to take a taxi, whether within the city or to the airport and back, make sure you only use reputable companies. Never accept a ride from a taxi that doesn’t have an official “Taxi Parisien” sign atop its roof and a visible meter inside. You may be overcharged or otherwise scammed, if you do…

Read related : How to Use Airport Taxis in Paris (& Avoid Getting Overcharged)

Why to Register & Keep in Touch With Your Embassy?

It’s always wise to register with your embassy ahead of your trip and to keep their contact details with you at all times.

In the event that your passport is lost or stolen, you experience a medical emergency or a crime, or are in the city at the time of a dangerous event, registering will ensure that you’ll be able to get in touch more quickly with your embassy and to receive help from them. This is a good list of world embassies and their contact details. 

Once at your embassy’s site, read through any relevant travel advisories for Paris and France and find out how to register as a citizen traveling abroad before your trip.

Are There Dangerous Places to Avoid in Paris?

I wish I could argue that Paris is entirely safe in all circumstances, but sadly, there are a few places that you’d probably be best off avoiding at night, especially for women and solo travelers.

Gangs are known to operate in some of these areas, and hate crimes have been reported around them in the past.

Take special caution late at night around the following metro stops and surrounding areas (and perhaps avoid altogether when traveling alone after dark) : Chatelet les Halles, Les Halles, Pigalle, Couronnes, Belleville, Place des Fetes, Porte de St Ouen, Porte de Clichy, Gare du Nord, Stalingrad, Jaures, and Crimée. Please note that this is not a definitive list: you should probably be cautious in all areas of the city after nightfall, or when crowds disperse.

Also note that this is NOT a list of so-called “no-go” zones in Paris. From my perspective (and it’s one shared by most locals), these simply don’t exist within the city limits.

All 20 arrondissements in Paris (city districts) are generally safe , as long as you take some precautions in the areas mentioned above, and do so everywhere at night. Remember, “posh” areas can be remarkably empty after dark, so paradoxically you may be more vulnerable in these.

Unfortunately, I also advise against traveling to the Northern suburbs of Paris after nightfall.  Violent crimes and hate crimes are more frequent in these areas, as is gang activity.

It pains me to advise this as I don’t wish to stigmatize any communities or places, but from a standpoint of tourist safety, these areas are probably best avoided at night.

Advice For Women, LGBTQ+ and Minority Travelers

While Paris is generally a tolerant and diverse place that is welcoming to people of all colors, creeds, sexual orientations and gender expressions, there are occasional cases of harassment or even assault.

Women , especially when traveling alone or in small groups, should take extra care at night, especially when alone. Avoid places with poor lighting and few people roaming the streets. Safety is in numbers.

Also, be aware that French men sometimes read smiles or extended eye contact as permission to flirt or make sexual advances. With strangers, it’s best to assume a neutral stance that clearly says “I’m not interested”.

If a man makes unwelcome or aggressive advances in the street or in other public places, firmly say “non”, refrain from smiling, and walk away. Call the police if you are followed or the harassment continues, and retreat to a public cafe or other crowded place if necessary.

People of color generally have nothing to fear in Paris, a city with remarkable ethnic diversity. Nevertheless, hate crimes are not unheard of.

If you are a victim of an attack that you feel is racially motivated, report it to the police, your embassy, and if necessary to French watchdog SOS Racisme: + 33 (0)1 40 35 36 55

Gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender and non-binary visitors are generally safe and welcomed in the capital, which harbors a large and vibrant LGBT community. That said, there has sadly been a spike in reports of homophobic attacks in Paris over the past couple of years, and in the areas I mention above as being potentially less safe after dark, it is advisable to be extra cautious.

Read this guide for more tips on staying safe, including for LGBT couples. If you are attacked, report it to the police and to your embassy, and state clearly if you believe the attack was a hate crime.

Related: How to Celebrate LGBT Pride Month in Paris? 

Advice for Jewish and Muslim Travelers

Jewish visitors may have read that Paris has become unsafe for them. It can’t be denied that antisemitic attacks have been on the rise in recent years, with targets including synagogues, places of business and Jewish individuals.

Sadly, from 2018 such attacks are reported to have risen sharply . And they have unfortunately skyrocketed in France since 2023, against the backdrop of the Israel-Gaza conflict that broke out in October of that year. As a result, it pains me to say that visitors should take extra precautions at this time.

These attacks have been met with increased police protection of Jewish schools, places of worship and other sites important to the Jewish community.

While safety concerns are warranted, I want to stress that Paris has one of the largest Jewish communities in the world: one with a deep history that’s very much part of the cultural fabric of the city.

The vibe is generally welcoming and you shouldn’t fear visiting the city. It’s also important to know that there have been no recent reports of attacks against tourists of Jewish faith (nor am I aware of any to have occured in recent history). Nevertheless, it’s probably a good idea to take some precautions, particularly in the areas I mention above.

While I regret advising it, it may be best, late at night and in the aforementioned areas, to remove visibly religious symbols and clothing items. Always report it to the police and to your embassy if you are a victim of an antisemitic attack. SOS Racisme can also help.

Muslim visitors may also fear attacks from Islamophobic individuals . Since 2015, there has been, according to numerous organizations, a sharp rise in attacks on Muslim places of worship and individuals.

Tourists of Muslim faith should not fear visiting the capital, however. Again, there is a large community here and most people are welcoming.

As always, though, if you experience harassment or violence make sure to report it to the police, your embassy, and perhaps to SOS Racisme: (+ 33 (0)1 40 35 36 55).

While attacks on tourists of Muslim faith are exceedingly rare, it is important for victims to be heard, have their experience accounted for, and to seek the help they need.

*Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you book products or services though this site, it comes at no cost to you, but will help fund more free, in-depth content here at Paris Unlocked. Thank you. 

Courtney Traub is the Founder and Editor of Paris Unlocked. She’s a longtime Paris resident who now divides her time (as well as she can manage) between the French capital and Norwich, UK. Co-author of the 2012 Michelin Green Guide to Northern France & the Paris Region, she has been interviewed as an expert on Paris and France by the BBC, Australian Broadcasting Corporation, Le Figaro, Matador Network and other publications. Courtney has also written and reported stories for media outlets including Radio France Internationale, The Christian Science Monitor, Women’s Wear Daily and The Associated Press. In addition to going down various rabbit holes of curiosity when it comes to French culture, history, food and art, Courtney is a scholar of literature and cultural history whose essays and reviews have appeared in various forums.

13 thoughts on “ Is Paris Safe in 2024 and Beyond? And Should You Travel to France Now? ”

can one travel a few days bw 16-23 dec 2019, flying from paris to nice, then flying back to paris without too much trouble or expense?

Yes, that’s entirely feasible. The flight is only about an hour long and many low-cost carriers offer very good fares if you book in advance. Check Easyjet, Iberia, and even Air France for sales on that route. Bon voyage!

This is positive news. Thanks for the update. Hopes are high that things return to normalcy soon. I love to travel to France during the summer, and I think it will be easier by then. I do go through travel blogs to understand the precautions we need to take enough steps to travel safely.

Considering that I want to travel to Europe one day this really helps me. Who doesn’t want to save money especially when you’re already on a trip. Thanks for the tips.

The topic of this blog is a question in my heart right now. I am eager to know this since I am getting bored at my home. Finally I came to an answer that yes it is safe to travel to France now. I will know find the list of best places to visit in France and after that I will start the process of online France Visa UK so that I can get it one time for my travelling with my kids and family.

I am from Singapore and am considering visiting France with my wife and 2 toddlers (ages 2 and 4) at the end of this year 2021 for Christmas. Thought it would be nice to let me kids experience a winter Christmas for a change. However I am concerned with how French people or Parisians view Asian tourists. Do they stigmatise them given how COVID-19 has been dubbed the “China virus” in the US? And are there any safe distancing measures in place for restaurants or museums in France (e.g. dine in no more than 2 pax at a table etc)? Are there any other pointers I should be aware of if we want to explore visiting beyond Paris to other parts of France during December? Thanks!

Hi Eric, thanks for reading and for your comment. While prejudice does sadly exist in Paris/France, tourists are very rarely the subject of attacks and harassment, and you can be rest assured that with some sensible precautions, you will feel safe and secure traveling there. I do understand your anxiety, but please know that Paris in particular is an incredibly diverse, cosmopolitan city, and again, as long as you follow some essential safety tips and guidelines , you have nothing to fear.

As to your second question, yes, there are currently safety measures in France to prevent the spread of coronavirus. “Health passes”, or vaccine passports, are required to enter most public spaces (or visitors must show proof of negative tests). Masks are also still required in all indoor public spaces including public transportation, shops, museums etc. You’ll find all the relevant, updated info in the link above.

Have a wonderful, safe trip, and thanks again for reading! –Courtney

This article is so helpful and thank you for your time in writing this. I am from the US and traveling to Paris with my boyfriend February 2022. We both are fully vaccinated and may get booster shots if recommended to travel Paris. However, friends are telling me that France might go in lockdown again. What are your thoughts?

So glad to know you’ve found this helpful, Jessica. I wish I could predict what might happen next, but the Omicron variant of the virus is a real wild card. I don’t think anyone knows what might happen in the coming weeks and months in terms of travel restrictions. If you’re not comfortable with the uncertainty of that, I do recommend delaying your trip. Typically, since the pandemic began winter and spring have proven tough, with a reprieve in late spring through early fall. Perhaps if at all possible it would be best to try to reschedule your trip for that period? All the best!

My husband and I are visiting France in late March/early April 2022, spending time in Paris, Bordeaux, and the Dordogne. Your site has been so helpful as we plan our trip. We are both fully vaccinated against COVID and received our boosters in mid-October. As I understand the current vaccine pass requirements, we are okay to travel to France (we’ll need to get the vaccine pass either before we leave or when we arrive). Is that right? Thanks for your help.

I’m sorry to bother you as I know you yourself asked a question you would like answered….my husband and I are traveling to Paris late May. We are fully vaccinated and boosted, what is the “vaccine pass” you are referring to? Thank you in advance for your reply

You may want to reconsider your advice in light of the recent European elections and in light of the upcoming results of the “législatives” elections. According to a French newspaper: “Since the extreme right’s victory on June 9, racist, sexist and LGBTphobic violence has swept across France.” So another victory of RN next week may make things worse…

Thank you for your comment. I will consult any latest statistics from SOS Racisme and other bodies who monitor violence against vulnerable populations and update as necessary.

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Exercise a high degree of caution in France due to the elevated threat of terrorism.

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Olympic and Paralympic Games

The Olympic Games will take place in Paris from July 26 to August 11, followed by the Paralympic Games from August 28 to September 8, 2024.

Public events for the Olympics will take place across France starting on May 8 and will continue until the opening ceremony.

If you plan to travel to France during this time, plan your travel accordingly.

During the Olympic Games, especially in Paris, you should expect:

• an increased presence of security forces
• major disruptions to traffic and movement, including transportation networks
• large crowds and public gatherings
• restrictions on flying drones over Paris
• an increase of petty crime, including theft and pickpocketing

Useful links

• Games-related information and advice for Canadians
• Olympic and Paralympic Games Paris 2024 – Official website
• Temporary drone use restriction – Olympic and Paralympic Games Paris 2024 (in French)

There is a threat of terrorism in Europe. Terrorists have carried out attacks in several European cities.

Over the past few years in France, several opportunistic and premeditated attacks have occurred. These have resulted in many deaths and injuries. Further attacks are likely.

Vigipirate plan

The Vigipirate plan is a set of measures established by the French government to prepare and protect the French population, infrastructure and institutions in the event of an attack. The aim is also to allow rapid deployment of intervention measures if necessary.

As part of this plan, the government maintains a 3-level public alert system for terrorism. The Vigipirate plan’s security level is currently at level 3, « urgence attentat» (“attack emergency”). Changes in the threat level are communicated online and through local and national media.

Vigipirate plan   – Government of France (in French)

Operation sentinelle

Operation Sentinelle allows the deployment of military brigades in public places to patrol and deter terrorist acts. Enhanced security measures have been deployed in various strategic locations, including:

• transport hubs
• public places
• tourist locations, especially in Paris

Expect an increased police or military presence in public places, including some tourist locations, particularly in Paris.

Attacks can occur anywhere. Terrorists may target:

• government buildings and those of local authorities
• schools/universities
• places of worship
• places dedicated to culture, such as exhibition galleries, museums, concert halls and theatres
• airports, railway stations and other transportation hubs and networks
• public areas such as tourist attractions, monuments, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, shopping centres, markets, hotels and other sites frequented by foreigners

While in France:

• always be aware of your surroundings when in public places
• be particularly vigilant if attending large gatherings such as sporting events and religious celebrations or other public celebrations
• Information on the terrorist threat in France - Ministry of the Interior (in French)
• How to react in case of a terrorist attack - Government of France (in French)
• Social media accounts of the Ministry of the Interior - Ministry of the Interior (in French)
• Vigipirate  – General secretary of defense and national security (in French)

Petty crime

Petty crimes, such as pickpocketing and purse and mobile phone snatching are common. Thieves often target tourists.

Thieves are very skilled. They often act in groups and regularly work with minors. They may use various techniques to divert your attention and steal your belongings.

Thieves are mainly active in large cities and busy places, such as:

• public transport, particularly the Paris metro and the Île-de-France regional express network (RER) lines linking the capital to its surroundings
• popular tourist sites
• department stores
• restaurants and patios
• hotel lobbies

During your trip: 

• keep your personal belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, in a secure place 
• don’t carry large sums of cash or  valuables unnecessarily 
• avoid walking alone after dark 
• be aware of your surroundings, especially in busy tourist areas
• be extra cautious when withdrawing cash from ATMs 
• Keep a photocopy of your passport in a safe place in case it’s stolen 

Lost or stolen belongings abroad

Violent crimes

Violent crimes are rarer, but still occur.

Tourists are sometimes victims of violent attacks by groups of young people who want to rob them. These attacks usually occur :

• around major tourist attractions
• near railway stations
• on trains of the Île-de-France regional express network (RER) connecting the capital to its surroundings

Assaults can also occur outside night-time establishments and in more isolated areas at night.

Residential break-ins

Residential break-ins occur, especially in large cities and coastal areas. Burglars sometimes target houses or holiday rental apartments.

• be vigilant, particularly when approached by strangers
• ensure that your belongings, including passports and other travel documents, are secure at all times
• avoid showing signs of affluence and carrying large sums of cash
• limit the use of mobile phones on public transportation and in crowded areas to ensure you remain aware of your surroundings and to avoid attracting attention
• don’t keep your credit, debit cards and cash in the same place
• never leave your bags unsupervised
• choose well-secured accommodation and make sure you lock doors and windows at night and when you’re away

Parked vehicles and vehicles on the road

Vehicle break-ins are frequent. Theft of parked cars or their contents is particularly common on beach roads in the south of France and at highway rest stops throughout the country, especially during the summer, when there is a high number of travellers.

• Leave nothing in view in the vehicle
• Use secure parking facilities
• Be particularly vigilant when renting automobiles, as rented vehicles are a target of choice

Drivers are often tricked into stopping their cars by thieves who either obstruct the road or distract the driver by flashing their headlights. They may also pretend that you have a flat tire or even puncture a tire themselves. Once the vehicle is stopped, the thieves seize the opportunity to steal a bag or other valuable objects.

• Beware of any person who waves at you to stop on the highway
• Be especially vigilant when stopped at traffic lights, as bags are often snatched from the front passenger seat by thieves travelling on scooters
• Keep windows closed and doors locked at all times

Victims of crime

If you’re a victim of theft, go to the nearest police station to report the crime. Keep a copy of your theft report, as you will need it if you wish to make a claim to your insurer. If the incident takes place in the metro, a metro officer can direct you to the nearest police station.

You can complete an online pre-complaint for certain types of minor crime, such as property theft, before going to the police station. This may speed up the process once you get there.

• Prevention advice for tourists - Préfecture de police de Paris
• Online pre-complaint - Ministry of the Interior (in French)

Bomb threats

Since October 2023, there have been a number of bomb threats sent to public places across France.

Bomb threats and hoaxes can target any location, including:

• tourist areas
• shopping centres
• transportation hubs
• government facilities
• religious institutions

If you are in an area targeted by a bomb threat, follow the instructions of local authorities including evacuation orders.

Credit card and ATM fraud

Credit card and ATM fraud occurs.

When using debit or credit cards:

• pay careful attention if other people are handling your cards
• use ATMs located in public areas or inside a bank or business
• avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature
• cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN
• check for any unauthorized transaction on your account statements

Cybercrime and online extortion, including phishing scams, occur.

Cybercriminals can compromise public Wi-Fi networks to steal personal data or credit information. They may try to trick you with communications that seem legitimate but are fraudulent. These could include promises of discounted merchandise or accommodations, or free event tickets.

• Use secure public Wi-Fi networks
• Carry your own USB adaptor or carry an extra battery pack instead of using public charging stations
• Make online purchases only from secure and official websites 
• Be cautious when posting information or photos on social media
• Beware of people who show a keen interest in you online
• Always meet new acquaintances in a secure and familiar location
• Overseas fraud
• Cyber security while travelling
• Don’t take the bait : Recognize and avoid phishing attacks

Demonstrations

Demonstrations occur frequently. They are usually planned as permission from the local authorities is required. However, unauthorized and spontaneous demonstrations also take place.

Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

Radical activists and vandals have a history of using aggressive and violent tactics during demonstrations in order to cause damage and provoke a strong response from the police. They sometimes throw stones, smoke grenades, bottles and other debris at rallies. The police normally respond with tear gas to disperse the crowds.

• Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• Follow the instructions of local authorities
• Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Strikes and pressure tactics occur regularly, particularly in key sectors such as transport. These strikes can sometimes complicate travel and disrupt public services.

• Consult local media to be aware of strikes that may affect your stay or travel plans
• In the event of a transport strike, plan extra time to get to your destination

Swimming, boating and water safety

Coastal waters can be dangerous. Always obey warning flags at beaches.

The main warning flags used in France are:

• Green: calm waters, swimming is allowed
• Yellow: agitated waters, swim with precautions
• Red: dangerous waters, swimming is prohibited
• Purple: contaminated waters or presence of dangerous aquatic species, swimming is prohibited

In autumn and winter, be cautious when walking on the shore, as waves can be unpredictable, breaking further than expected and causing strong undertows.

• Avoid visiting beaches or coastal areas during periods of severe weather warnings
• Look out for signs warning of cliff erosion and falling rocks
• Don’t dive into unknown waters, as hidden rocks or shallow depths can cause serious injury or death
• Exercise caution and follow the advice of the local authorities

Recreational boating

If you are planning to go boating:

• know the capacity of your boat (people and weight) and don’t exceed it
• know the navigation rules
• follow safe practices for all activities on the water: personal watercraft, water-skiing and towed devices, diving or swimming, fishing, etc.
• equip your boat with a VHF marine radio that will generate your position in case of emergency
• be prepared for emergencies

Search and rescue missions in France are carried out by the Regional Operational Surveillance and Rescue Centres (CROSS). In case of emergency, contact the centre on VHF radio channel 16 or by dialling 196.

• Surveillance and rescue at sea - Ministry of the Sea (in French)
• Water safety abroad

Mountain activities

Mountain activities, such as hiking, can be dangerous, especially if they are not well prepared. Trails are not always marked and weather conditions can change rapidly, even in summer.

In winter, heavy snowfall can make it difficult to reach some villages and ski centres. Roads may become impassable. There is also a risk of avalanches, some of which can be fatal.

If you intend to go hiking, mountaineering or skiing:

• never do so alone and do not part with your hiking companions
• buy travel insurance that includes helicopter rescue and medical evacuation
• ensure that your physical condition is good enough to meet the challenges of your activity
• do not venture off marked trails or slopes
• ensure that you’re adequately equipped
• stay informed about weather and other conditions that may pose a hazard
• inform a family member or friend of your itinerary
• know the symptoms of acute altitude sickness, which can be fatal
• obtain detailed information on your activity and on the environment in which you will be doing it before setting out
• Information on mountain conditions - Association nationale pour l'étude de la neige et des avalanches (ANENA) (in French)
• Specialised mountain units - Gendarmerie nationale (in French)
• Avalanche forecasts and warnings - European Avalanche Warning Service (EAWS)

Road safety

French roads are well maintained.

Drive carefully and respect the Highway Code.

Public transportation

Urban and intercity public transportation is reliable. When using these types of transport, make sure you validate your ticket and keep it until the end of your journey. The authorities carry out regular random checks and you may be fined if you do not have a validated ticket.

There is a problem of illegal taxis in Paris airports and train stations. These scammers charge much higher rates than the official ones.

• Ignore direct solicitations when leaving the airport or train station
• Use only official taxis or a trusted ride-sharing app
• Don’t share a taxi with strangers

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the French authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the  Foreign Representatives in Canada .

• Schengen area

France is a Schengen area country. Canadian citizens do not need a visa for travel to countries within the Schengen area. However, visa-free travel only applies to stays of up to 90 days in any 180-day period. Stays are cumulative and include visits to any Schengen area country.

If you plan to stay in the Schengen area for a longer period of time, you will need a visa. You must contact the high commission or embassy of the country or countries you are travelling to and obtain the appropriate visa(s) prior to travel.

• Foreign Representatives in Canada

Temporary border controls

The French government has reintroduced internal border controls at certain ports of entry. You may be required to pass through immigration controls when entering France, even if arriving from another Schengen area country.

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for at least 3 months beyond the date you expect to leave the Schengen area.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports

Tourist visa: not required for stays up to 90 days in any 180-day period Long-stay or residency visa: required for stays longer than 90 days Work permit: required Student visa: required for stays longer than 90 days

More information on Visas - Government of France

Other entry requirements

Customs officials may ask you to show them a return or onward ticket and proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay.

• Children and travel

To leave France, any child under the age of 18 who normally resides in France must be accompanied by at least one parent. Children travelling without at least one parent must be in possession of:

• an authorization to leave the country signed by one of the parents
• a photocopy of the signing parent’s identification
• More information on the authorization to leave the country - French administration services
• More about travelling with children

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Relevant Travel Health Notices

• Global Measles Notice - 13 March, 2024
• Zika virus: Advice for travellers - 31 August, 2023
• COVID-19 and International Travel - 13 March, 2024
• 2024 Summer Olympics and Paralympics – France - 6 June, 2024

This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.

Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your  routine vaccinations , as per your province or territory , are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary. 

Yellow fever is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.

Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.

• There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.

Country Entry Requirement*

• Proof of vaccination is not required to enter this country.

Recommendation

• Vaccination is not recommended.

* It is important to note that country entry requirements may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.

About Yellow Fever

Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada

Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) is a risk in some areas of this destination. It is a viral disease that affects the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord). It is spread to humans by the bite of infected ticks or occasionally when unpasteurized milk products are consumed.

Travellers to areas where TBE is found may be at higher risk  during April to November, and the risk is highest for people who hike or camp in forested areas.

Protect yourself from tick bites . The vaccine is not available in Canada. It may be available in the destination you are travelling to.

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.

Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.

  Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus.  Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.

Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.

 The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot at least 2 weeks before travelling.  

 The flu occurs worldwide. 

•  In the Northern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs from November to   April.
•  In the Southern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs between April and   October.
•  In the tropics, there is flu activity year round. 

The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.

The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.

In this destination, rabies  may be present in some wildlife species, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. 

If you are bitten or scratched by an animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. 

Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who will be working directly with wildlife. 

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

• Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
• Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
• Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs. 

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

• Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
• Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
• Minimize exposure to insects
• Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

• In this country, risk of  dengue  is sporadic. It is a viral disease spread to humans by mosquito bites.
• Dengue can cause flu-like symptoms. In some cases, it can lead to severe dengue, which can be fatal.
• The level of risk of dengue changes seasonally, and varies from year to year. The level of risk also varies between regions in a country and can depend on the elevation in the region.
• Mosquitoes carrying dengue typically bite during the daytime, particularly around sunrise and sunset.
• Protect yourself from mosquito bites . There is no vaccine or medication that protects against dengue fever.

Zika virus is a risk in this country. 

Zika virus is primarily spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. It can also be sexually transmitted. Zika virus can cause serious birth defects.

During your trip:

• Prevent mosquito bites at all times.
• Use condoms correctly or avoid sexual contact, particularly if you are pregnant.

If you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, you should discuss the potential risks of travelling to this destination with your health care provider. You may choose to avoid or postpone travel. 

For more information, see Zika virus: Pregnant or planning a pregnancy.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette , which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

•   washing your hands often
• avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
• avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness 

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) , HIV , and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.  

Medical services and facilities

Health care is excellent and available throughout the country. Up-front payment may be required.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Health and safety outside Canada

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a   travel health kit , especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad .

Transfer to a Canadian prison

Canada and France are signatories to the Convention on the Transfer of Sentenced Persons. This enables a Canadian imprisoned in France to request a transfer to a Canadian prison to complete a sentence. The transfer requires the agreement of both Canadian and France authorities.

This process can take a long time, and there is no guarantee that the transfer will be approved by either or both sides.

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect jail sentences or heavy fines.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

Identity checks

You may be subject to identity checks during your stay in France.

Always carry valid identification such as a driver's licence, passport or a copy of it.

Keep photocopies or digital copies of the following documents, in case of loss or seizure:

• the identification page of your passport
• your birth certificate
• your Canadian citizenship card
• your driver’s licence

Keep originals and copies in separate safe locations.

Concealing your face in public places

In France, it’s illegal to cover your face in public places, including international airport arrivals areas.

Offenders risk a very high fine. There is no exemption for tourists or for religious reasons.

• Identity checks - French administration services
• Concealment of the face in public places - French administration services

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is legally recognized in France.

If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of France, our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you're there. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements .

Dual citizens

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. The convention applies between Canada and France.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in France, and if the applicable conditions are met, you may apply for the return of your child to the French court.

If you are in this situation:

• act as quickly as you can
• contact the Central Authority for your province or territory of residence for information on starting an application under The Hague Convention
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in France to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children's Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country's judicial affairs.

• List of Canadian Central Authorities for the Hague Convention
• International Child Abductions: A guide for affected parents
• The Hague Convention – Hague Conference on Private International Law
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Request emergency assistance

Recreational and commercial flying of drones is regulated.

You must register your drone to use it across the European Union. If you don’t comply, you may be fined and your drone confiscated.

• Civil drones  - European Union Aviation Safety Agency
• General Directorate of Civil Aviation – Government of France (in French)
• Drones: piloting rules to follow – Government of France (in French)

You must be at least 18 years old to drive a car in France.

You should carry an International Driving Permit. You can drive with your Canadian licence for up to 1 year. If you stay in France, you will have to exchange your Canadian licence for a French licence.

Numerous roadside cameras have been installed to help enforce traffic regulations. You could receive heavy fines if you do not obey the speed limit or the Highway Code. Local authorities may also confiscate your driver’s licence.

Fines must generally be paid within 3 days. They may be increased in case of delay of payment.

A reflective vest and warning triangle are mandatory in all vehicles.

From November 1 to March 31, winter tires or chains are compulsory in some cities and regions in mountainous areas.

Priority to the right

The “priority to the right” system is in effect in France. Drivers must give way to vehicles approaching from the right at intersections, even on secondary roads. This is often a surprise to foreign drivers and results in accidents.

In general, traffic in a roundabout has priority over vehicles trying to enter it. Priority switches to vehicles from the left.

Low-emission zones

Some cities and territories have put in place low emission zones to reduce air pollution.

Access to these zones is restricted to vehicles that meet certain environmental standards. You may need to get a permit to drive in these areas.

• More information about road travel in France - European Commission
• Obligations to equip vehicles in winter - French administration services (in French)
• Air quality certificates: Crit'Air - Ministry of Ecological Transition (in French)

The currency of France is the euro (EUR).

If you are carrying €10,000 or more, or the equivalent in other currencies, you must make a declaration to customs when you enter or leave the European Union. It includes sums in:

• banknotes and coins
• bearer negotiable instruments such as cheques, travellers’ cheques, promissory notes and money orders
• bonds, shares
• gold coins with a gold content of at least 90 %
• gold bars, nuggets or clumps with a gold content of at least 99.5 %
• any other convertible asset

This does not apply if you are travelling within the European Union or in transit to a non-EU country.

EU cash controls - European Commission

There is a risk of avalanches in mountainous areas, which can cause fatal accidents. If you intend to ski or climb, find out about the weather and safety conditions and follow the advice given.

• Familiarise yourself with the avalanche risk levels - French administration services

There is a risk of seasonal flooding, particularly in areas along major rivers and streams. Flooding can hamper overland travel and the provision of essential services.

The French government has a flood forecasting service called Vigicrues.

• Stay informed of the latest regional weather forecasts

Flooding risk - Vigicrues

Forest and maquis fires

Forest and maquis fires often occur in summer, particularly on the Mediterranean coast and in Corsica.

The air quality in areas near active fires may deteriorate due to heavy smoke.

There is a ban on smoking in woods and forests during high forest fire risk periods as defined by the prefecture. This ban applies equally to areas situated within 200m of wooded areas.

In case of a major fire:

• stay away from affected areas, particularly if you suffer from respiratory ailments
• follow the advice of local authorities
• monitor local media for up-to-date information on the situation

  Forest weather – Météo France (in French)

Local services

Dial 112 for emergency assistance.

Dial 17 to connect to the police.

French Guiana, Guadeloupe, Martinique, Mayotte, Monaco, La Réunion, Saint-Barthélemy, Saint-Martin, Saint-Pierre-et-Miquelon

South Region.

Rhône-Alpes Region

American Samoa, Cook Islands, Fiji, French Polynesia, Kiribati, Niue, Samoa, Tokelau, Tonga, Tuvalu, Wallis and Futuna

Consular assistance - France

Please call the consulates before visiting them.

For emergency consular assistance, call the Embassy of Canada to France, in Paris, and follow the instructions

Consular assistance - Wallis and Futuna

For emergency consular assistance, call the High Commission of Canada to New Zealand, in Wellington, and follow the instructions.

At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.

The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.

The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.

If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.

Learn more about consular services .

Risk Levels

  take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

  Exercise a high degree of caution

There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.

  Avoid non-essential travel

Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

  Avoid all travel

You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.

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Coming to France? Your Covid-19 questions answered

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French people who are living abroad, travelling or returning from abroad, as well as visitors from abroad, will find answers below to frequently asked questions on COVID-19 measures.

This FAQ supplements the information on the Conseils aux voyageurs (Travel advice, in French only) section.

— Last updated on 26 August 2022 —

What are the rules relating to the vaccine pass?

Since 14 March 2022, the “vaccine pass” has been lifted in France in all areas where it was previously required (cultural and leisure venues, commercial catering, professional trade shows, etc.). Similarly, the COVID certificate is no longer required as of 1 August 2022.

What are the current rules applied at national borders?

Since the outset of the crisis, the health check system at borders has protected our healthcare system and delayed the arrival into France of worrying variants. This system was removed on 1 August 2022.

Therefore, the rules previously in place for travellers to France no longer apply :

• Travellers no longer have any formalities to complete before arriving into mainland or overseas France, and the COVID certificate can no longer be required, irrespective of the country or area of origin;
• Proof of a compelling reason for travel can no longer be required ;
• Travellers no longer need to present a sworn declaration that they are not infected with COVID-19 and pledge to take an antigen test or biological exam upon arrival in France. This also applies to travel between mainland France and each of the overseas territories.

However, in the event of a dangerous variant, a system requiring a negative virological test upon entering France may be reinstated for travellers arriving from countries believed to be at risk.

The government will thus maintain the option to use “emergency brake” measures for a maximum period of two months, following a recommendation from the Haute autorité de santé (French National Authority for Health) in the event of the emergence and circulation of a new COVID-19 variant which can be a serious health risk, or in overseas territories, if the health system is at risk of saturation.

Furthermore, for foreign travel, a vaccination certificate, a negative test certificate or proof of recovery in EU format may be required by the destination country. It is also recommended to store all relevant documents on the TousAntiCovid application or print them out.

For the health rules in force for entering other countries, travellers should visit the “ Conseils aux voyageurs ” section on the Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs website (in French only).

What are the rules concerning mask-wearing in France?

• Mask-wearing is no longer mandatory in establishments open to the public, nor on board maritime, river, land and air transport;
• Mask-wearing continues to be recommended in enclosed and small spaces, and at large gatherings for vulnerable persons due to their age;
• It is also highly recommended in hospitals and retirement homes.
• Details on travelling to and from France

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France Traveler View

The 2024 Summer Olympics will take place in Paris, France, from July 26-August 11, 2024. The Paralympic Games is scheduled for August 28-September 8, 2024. Crowds are expected at these events, and mass gatherings are associated with unique health risks, including an increased risk for respiratory illnesses . If you plan to travel to Paris for these events, make sure you are up to date on  routine and recommended vaccines , including for COVID-19 and measles. The celebratory atmosphere at the Olympics may encourage travelers to engage in risky behaviors, including risky sex. If you have sex with new partners during your trip, take steps to protect one another. Monitor travel warnings and alerts  from the U.S. Department of State and consider signing up for the Smart Travelers Enrollment Program . If you traveled and feel sick, particularly if you have a fever, talk to a healthcare professional, and tell them about your recent rravel.

Travel Health Notices

Vaccines and medicines, non-vaccine-preventable diseases, stay healthy and safe.

• Packing List

After Your Trip

There are no notices currently in effect for France.

⇧ Top

Check the vaccines and medicines list and visit your doctor at least a month before your trip to get vaccines or medicines you may need. If you or your doctor need help finding a location that provides certain vaccines or medicines, visit the Find a Clinic page.

Avoid contaminated water

Leptospirosis

How most people get sick (most common modes of transmission)

• Touching urine or other body fluids from an animal infected with leptospirosis
• Swimming or wading in urine-contaminated fresh water, or contact with urine-contaminated mud
• Drinking water or eating food contaminated with animal urine
• Avoid contaminated water and soil
• Avoid floodwater

Clinical Guidance

Avoid bug bites.

Leishmaniasis

• Sand fly bite
• Avoid Bug Bites
• Mosquito bite
• An infected pregnant woman can spread it to her unborn baby

Airborne & droplet

• Breathing in air or accidentally eating food contaminated with the urine, droppings, or saliva of infected rodents
• Bite from an infected rodent
• Less commonly, being around someone sick with hantavirus (only occurs with Andes virus)
• Avoid rodents and areas where they live
• Avoid sick people

Parvovirus B19

• Virus droplets from a cough or sneeze getting in your eyes, nose, or mouth
• Direct contact with the virus, like kissing the face of a child with parvovirus B19
• Touching a surface with the virus on it, like a doorknob, and then touching your face before washing your hands
• An infected pregnant person can spread it to their unborn baby 
• Wash your hands  often with soap and water
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth
• Avoid crowded areas where you may be unable to maintain physical distance
• People who are  pregnant ,  have blood disorders (e.g. sickle cell or thalassemia), or are immunocompromised are at  higher risk  for severe disease. If you are in these groups and are exposed to or contract parvovirus B-19, contact your healthcare provider.

Prevention and Treatment

Tuberculosis (TB)

• Breathe in TB bacteria that is in the air from an infected and contagious person coughing, speaking, or singing.

Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in France, so your behaviors are important.

Eat and drink safely

Food and water standards around the world vary based on the destination. Standards may also differ within a country and risk may change depending on activity type (e.g., hiking versus business trip). You can learn more about safe food and drink choices when traveling by accessing the resources below.

• Choose Safe Food and Drinks When Traveling
• Water Treatment Options When Hiking, Camping or Traveling
• Global Water, Sanitation and Hygiene | Healthy Water
• Avoid Contaminated Water During Travel

You can also visit the  Department of State Country Information Pages  for additional information about food and water safety.

Prevent bug bites

Although France is an industrialized country, bug bites here can still spread diseases. Just as you would in the United States, try to avoid bug bites while spending time outside or in wooded areas.

What can I do to prevent bug bites?

• Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
• Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
• Consider using permethrin-treated clothing and gear if spending a lot of time outside. Do not use permethrin directly on skin.

What type of insect repellent should I use?

• FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
• Picaridin (also known as KBR 3023, Bayrepel, and icaridin)
• Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or para-menthane-diol (PMD)
• 2-undecanone
• Always use insect repellent as directed.

What should I do if I am bitten by bugs?

• Avoid scratching bug bites, and apply hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to reduce the itching.
• Check your entire body for ticks after outdoor activity. Be sure to remove ticks properly.

What can I do to avoid bed bugs?

Although bed bugs do not carry disease, they are an annoyance. See our information page about avoiding bug bites for some easy tips to avoid them. For more information on bed bugs, see Bed Bugs .

For more detailed information on avoiding bug bites, see Avoid Bug Bites .

Stay safe outdoors

If your travel plans in France include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip:

• Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
• Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
• Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
• If you are outside for many hours in the heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
• Protect yourself from UV radiation : use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
• Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
• Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.

Stay safe around water

• Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
• Do not dive into shallow water.
• Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
• Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if you are driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.

Keep away from animals

Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.

Follow these tips to protect yourself:

• Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
• Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
• Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
• Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
• If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately.  Bat bites may be hard to see.

All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:

• Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
• Go to a doctor right away.
• Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.

Reduce your exposure to germs

Follow these tips to avoid getting sick or spreading illness to others while traveling:

• Wash your hands often, especially before eating.
• If soap and water aren’t available, clean hands with hand sanitizer (containing at least 60% alcohol).
• Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you need to touch your face, make sure your hands are clean.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
• Try to avoid contact with people who are sick.
• If you are sick, stay home or in your hotel room, unless you need medical care.

Avoid sharing body fluids

Diseases can be spread through body fluids, such as saliva, blood, vomit, and semen.

Protect yourself:

• Use latex condoms correctly.
• Do not inject drugs.
• Limit alcohol consumption. People take more risks when intoxicated.
• Do not share needles or any devices that can break the skin. That includes needles for tattoos, piercings, and acupuncture.
• If you receive medical or dental care, make sure the equipment is disinfected or sanitized.

Know how to get medical care while traveling

Plan for how you will get health care during your trip, should the need arise:

• Carry a list of local doctors and hospitals at your destination.
• Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance for things your regular insurance will not cover.
• Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medicines you take.
• Bring copies of your prescriptions for medicine and for eye glasses and contact lenses.
• Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call France’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
• Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.

Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website ( www.jointcommissioninternational.org ).

Select safe transportation

Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.

Be smart when you are traveling on foot.

• Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
• Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
• Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.

Riding/Driving

Choose a safe vehicle.

• Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
• Make sure there are seatbelts.
• Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
• Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
• Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
• Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.

Think about the driver.

• Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
• Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
• Arrange payment before departing.

Follow basic safety tips.

• Wear a seatbelt at all times.
• Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
• When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
• Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
• Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
• If you choose to drive a vehicle in France, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
• Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
• Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
• Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
• If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
• Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.

Helpful Resources

Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.

The Association for International Road Travel has country-specific Road Travel Reports available for most countries for a minimal fee.

Maintain personal security

Use the same common sense traveling overseas that you would at home, and always stay alert and aware of your surroundings.

Before you leave

• Research your destination(s), including local laws, customs, and culture.
• Monitor travel advisories and alerts and read travel tips from the US Department of State.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) .
• Leave a copy of your itinerary, contact information, credit cards, and passport with someone at home.
• Pack as light as possible, and leave at home any item you could not replace.

While at your destination(s)

• Carry contact information for the nearest US embassy or consulate .
• Carry a photocopy of your passport and entry stamp; leave the actual passport securely in your hotel.
• Follow all local laws and social customs.
• Do not wear expensive clothing or jewelry.
• Always keep hotel doors locked, and store valuables in secure areas.
• If possible, choose hotel rooms between the 2nd and 6th floors.

Healthy Travel Packing List

Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for France for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.

Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?

It’s best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Some supplies and medicines may be difficult to find at your destination, may have different names, or may have different ingredients than what you normally use.

If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic . Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.

For more information on what to do if you are sick after your trip, see Getting Sick after Travel .

Map Disclaimer - The boundaries and names shown and the designations used on maps do not imply the expression of any opinion whatsoever on the part of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention concerning the legal status of any country, territory, city or area or of its authorities, or concerning the delimitation of its frontiers or boundaries. Approximate border lines for which there may not yet be full agreement are generally marked.

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Ministère de l'Intérieur et des outre-mer

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COVID-19 : International travel

Mobilising on a weekly basis up to 6,000 members of the civil security service to carry out tests, border guards to check travellers’ health documents and internal security forces to oversee the isolation or quarantine measures decreed by the prefects, this mechanism was duly adjusted in response to the changing health conditions and Community regulations.

In light of the latest developments in the pandemic, the port health control system has been discontinued, pursuant to the law terminating the emergency measures instituted to combat the COVID-19 outbreak.

Accordingly, the rules previously applied to travellers to France no longer apply effective from 1 August 2022:

• Travellers are now exempt from any formalities prior to entry into France, be it in mainland France or overseas, and no longer required to present a health pass, regardless of the country or place of departure;
• Justification of travel (the “compelling reason”) is no longer required;
• Travellers are no longer required to present a sworn statement of non-contamination and an undertaking to undergo an antigen test or screening upon arrival in the country.

The same applies to travel between mainland France and each of the overseas territories. Similarly, the French authorities no longer require any justification for outgoing travel from France, be it from mainland France or overseas, or any exit clearance to travel to another country.

However, foreign countries may continue to apply specific entry measures and formalities.

As of February 16th 2023, all passengers traveling from China are no longer required to present a negative antigen or PCR test result dated less than 48 hours, or a sworn statement. Random screening on arrival is also discontinued.

It is still recommended to wear a single-use surgical mask on board the aircraft.

Passengers from China making a stopover in a different country to reach France are invited to check the conditions applicable to transits.

Click here  to find out more about Overseas Territories Travel.

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Paris France travel requirements 2024: What American travelers need to know

We aim to keep this post updated about Paris France travel in 2024 with official Paris travel restrictions, requirements, and health and safety guidance. Our goal is to help you make informed decisions so you can travel confidently, safely, and responsibly in this new post-pandemic world of ours.

Paris is a destination close to our hearts, as Michelle has relatives in the city and studied in Paris in college.

As restrictions vary based on the traveler’s citizenship, we will focus primarily on those affecting U.S. citizens.

Last update: July 2024. Originally published: May 2021.

Disclosure: This post contains some affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of our links, we may receive a small commission, at no additional cost to you.

January 2024 – Agnes Groonwald of Travel on the Reg , expats in France: “Tourism in Paris has seemed light since our move just outside of the city, but we also haven’t experienced the peak summer season yet. It’s still expected to book the big attractions (e.g. Louvre Museum) a few weeks ahead of travel, and dinner reservations remain a must at popular eateries.

Some locals and tourists are still voluntarily masking on crowded public transit and popular tourist destinations. Otherwise, it appears to be business as usual. There are no COVID protocols outside of doctors’ offices where masking is compulsory. Paris attractions, restaurants, and public transit are all operating without COVID-era restrictions. You can travel to/from the city without vaccine cards. That said, the city continues to struggle with regular disruptions to transit/worker shortages that require patience from travelers, but this has more to do with local politics vs. COVID. It’ll be interesting to see what happens during the Olympics.

The general tips for Paris travel apply. Leave plenty of time to get to/from attractions around the city and pre-book the big ticket items as soon as you know when you’re visiting.”

*At the end of the post, we share more on-the-ground perspectives from local residents and travelers to the Paris so you can get a true sense of what to expect.

Table of Contents

Can US citizens travel to Paris, France? Can I travel to Paris right now? 

Yes, France is open to American travelers, regardless of vaccination status.

As of August 2022 , France removed all COVID entry requirements for any traveler from any country.

Testing, proof of vaccination, proof of recovery, proof of a compelling reason for travel, and sworn declaration about Covid contact and symptoms are no longer required .

Visitors from over 60  visa-exempt countries , including the U.S., will soon be required to have a European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) travel authorization to enter Italy and other European countries . The start date has been delayed from 2024 to 2025. 

See details about ETIAS here

In addition, EES or Entry Exit System, a new automated data registration system, is expected to be implemented in late 2024. This will replace the manual stamping of passports for nationals of non-EU countries traveling to the Schengen Area. Check back for updates.

Paris, France travel restrictions currently allow traveling between regions. However, as of May 2023 , short-haul domestic flights that can be taken by train in less than two-and-a-half hours are not allowed. 

Effective March 2022, masks are no longer required in indoor spaces and public transport but still highly recommended in enclosed and small spaces, in hospitals, and other medical centers.

Quarantine rules in Paris, France: What happens if I get Covid?

Travelers are not required to quarantine upon arrival in France unless presenting symptoms of Covid.

Travelers who test positive for COVID-19 while in France are no longer required to self-isolate but are asked to observe the following guidelines:

• Wear mask, observe physical distancing, practice hand hygiene
• Avoid contact with people who are immunocompromised
• Notify others (family, friends, colleagues) you came in contact with within 48 hours before the onset of symptoms, or within 7 days before testing positive, if no symptoms are present
• Contact a doctor and monitor your health

See details here .

Paris Health Pass/Pass Sanitaire Requirements for Dining, Attractions, and Travel

You might be wondering: Do I need a vaccine certificate or Covid test to enter restaurants, public transit, accommodations, and attractions in Paris?

Since March 2022, a vaccine pass is no longer required to enter most establishments.

As of August 2022, Health Pass or passe sanitaire , obtained with a proof of either vaccination or a recent negative Covid test, is no longer required.

Can Americans travel to Paris France in 2024?

Travel to Paris in August is open for US citizens without restrictions. Please read on for details and check back for updates, as protocols may change.

What is it like to fly to Paris, France CDG Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport right now? As of March 2022, wearing a mask is no longer required in French airports. Check with your individual airline about mask requirements on board the flight.

Temperature checks or other screenings may be done at the airport. Hand sanitizers are readily available. 

Do Americans have to quarantine when traveling to Paris, France? No. Travelers are not required to quarantine upon arrival in France. 

Does France check COVID-19 symptoms of incoming travelers? Health screening procedures, including temperature checks, may be in place at airports and other ports of entry in France. 

Does France require a negative Covid 19 test for American travelers?  As of August 2022, a negative Covid 19 test is no longer required for entry. 

Does France require a proof of Coronavirus vaccine for American travelers? As of August 2022, a proof of Coronavirus vaccine is no longer required for entry.

Do I still need to provide a negative Covid test or quarantine if I have been vaccinated? No. Quarantine or proof of a negative Covid test are no longer required, regardless of vaccination status.

Is a booster shot required for travel to Paris, France? As of August 2022, booster shots are no longer required for purposes of entry to France. There is currently no expiration period set for the validity of vaccinations.

What Covid testing options are available for travelers in Paris, France? U.S. Citizens can obtain a COVID-19 test at laboratories and testing centers in Paris. Covid-19 testing centers are also available for certain situations in Paris-Charles de Gaulle airport and Paris-Orly by appointment .

PCR tests generally cost between 50 and 100 euros, payable in advance. Results for the PCR test are available within 48 hours. Antigen tests cost 29 euros for those not covered by French social security; results are usually available within half an hour.

Testing centers in France can be found on this map.

What healthcare options are available to travelers in Paris, France who get the virus? Paris, France hospitals and clinics are open. Testing in labs and pharmacies is available to foreign visitors at their own expense.

For travel insurance that covers Covid, check out Nomad Insurance by Safety Wing >

What service businesses and restaurants are open in Paris, France?  Restaurants, bars, cafes, museums, parks, clubs, attractions (including the Eiffel Tower), and tours have reopened. Stadiums, arenas and other large-capacity venues are allowed to operate at full capacity. 

Are face masks required in Paris, France? Masks are no longer required in France but may still be required in medical facilities. Private businesses may make masks a condition of entry at their discretion, but this is rare. 

Are buses running in Paris, France? Public transportation is available in Paris. A health pass is not required.

Will France impose new Covid restrictions? What’s next is difficult to predict. Historically, most countries impose COVID-19 restrictions when strains on the health care system might become unsustainable.

How has the Coronavirus impacted Paris, France?

France has been one of the hardest hit countries in Europe and went into a series of national lockdowns. Case numbers spiked in Fall 2020, Spring 2021, and Summer 2021 with the Delta variant.

More than 130,000 people in the tourism sector lost jobs in France.

In June 2021, France reopened its borders to more countries outside of Europe with a color-coded system for entry requirements.

France State of Emergency ended in August 2022; France removed all Covid related restrictions for all travelers from any country. 

Over 90% of the population have been fully vaccinated.

For the current situation in Paris France, including: total COVID-19 positive cases; total cases in France; and COVID-19 testing in France, please see the French Department of Health site .

What should you pack for safely traveling in Paris France?

😷 Face Masks – Face coverings are recommended in crowded places. Find N95 masks at Bona Fide > or designer options at Vida >

💊 Medicine – Bring enough prescription and over-the-counter medication for your entire trip to avoid trips to the clinic.

💳 Vaccine Card Holder – Protect that paper CDC card when traveling abroad (if your country doesn’t offer a digital version). Get a simple plastic protector > or Vegan leather clippable > or Leather passport + card combo holder >

👃 Covid self-test – The most studied rapid antigen self-test with FDA emergency authorization.  NOT valid to enter countries. Use for your own peace of mind. Order from CVS > or Walmart >

💧 Sealed water bottle – Make sure your reusable water bottle has a lid that’s not exposed to the air. We use one of each of the following: Shop insulated water bottles with protective lid > Shop water bottles with purification filter and protective lid >

✈️ Travel insurance that covers Covid – We’ve started using Nomad Insurance by Safety Wing for affordable evacuation, international medical, and trip coverage.

What do Paris, France locals and recent travelers say about visiting Paris, France now?

What is it like to visit Paris, France right now? It’s our goal to provide regular updates here from real people on the ground, to help potential visitors know what to expect.

The following are subjective opinions only. Official travel guidance can be found above.

January 2024 – Agnes Groonwald of Travel on the Reg, resident of France:  “Tourism in Paris has seemed light since our move just outside of the city, but we also haven’t experienced the peak summer season yet. It’s still expected to book the big attractions (e.g. Louvre Museum) a few weeks ahead of travel, and dinner reservations remain a must at popular eateries.

September 2023 – Lauren of Pack and Paint, UK traveler:  “I caught the Eurostar from London to Paris for five days of sightseeing. Tourism in Paris is in full-swing post covid with adventurers from across the globe hitting up the French capital in their millions. Top tourist attractions such as the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre were busy which indicated a large tourism boom. 

In Paris, it felt like everyone had gone back to pre-covid times. Hardly anyone wore masks or followed social distancing. With large crowds at most tourist attractions, it would have been tough to follow covid related advice.”

June 2023 – Jori of The Tejana Abroad , expat:  “Summer in Europe is back and with it, all the usual summer crowds! Most attractions in Paris have opened up and are welcoming international visitors. If you’re still a bit wary of crowds after Covid though, maybe try to visit France during the lower seasons, such as fall and spring.

The majority of French citizens are vaccinated with booster shots, but the government is no longer testing international visitors. Healthcare in France is easy to access and if you fear you are infected, you are able to get tested at any nearby pharmacy. Local tourist attractions and restaurants are very crowded in the high season, but a nice alternative is ordering food to go and enjoying it in a picnic in the park.”

February 2023 – Laura Bronner of Eternal Expat , American traveler:  “I visited Paris for 4 days as part of a 10-day trip around France in February 2023. Paris feels completely back to normal. All museums and tourist attractions are back open with normal opening hours. The metro is clean and operating at normal and frequent times.

It was very busy when I visited in Feb 2023, especially at the biggest tourist sites like the Louvre, Eiffel Tower, and view points for these places. If you plan to visit in 2023, I highly recommend pre-booking tickets for the museums you want to go to with time slots and make sure to make reservations for restaurants you don’t want to miss, especially if you are traveling as a group of more than 2 people. If you don’t make a reservation, arrive at the time the restaurant opens for the best chance of getting a table for lunch or dinner service.

There is still easy access to testing at most pharmacies around Paris. You can definitely get the at-home tests at every pharmacy and many have testing centers outside the pharmacies which are conducted by pharmacists. There are no other restrictions on public transportation (no masks required, but they are “recommended” for public transport). There are lots of lines at museums and restaurants near the main attractions were incredibly busy.”

January 2023 – Amber Everywhere , American traveler: “Tourism seems to be back to normal in Paris, with large crowds in many of the most popular parts of the city. You’ll see masks and social distancing in some spaces, but most places are crowded and maskless. 

Testing appears to be widely available in Paris, with some visible testing tents throughout the city. There does not appear to be contact tracing in place, at least for crowded public spaces; locals did not mention any trouble accessing healthcare. Most local attractions appeared to be open, same with restaurants and other amenities. I didn’t notice any COVID-related restrictions, though many people chose to wear masks when in public areas (like the metro).”

September 2022 – Alyssa, American traveler: “We arrived in Paris with our two little kids, getting ready to caravan with some friends here in France. So far, I would say Paris is medium to low in terms of crowdedness. Public transit hasn’t been too packed. Everything is open and mask free for the most part.”

June 28, 2022 – Gretchen of Chasing Advntr , U.S. traveler : “We flew to Paris for several days as part of a month long European trip and to celebrate my twins birthday. We walked to all the major sites and while it was crowded, we had no trouble enjoying the attractions. We were glad we booked a river cruise and tickets to Musee D’Orsay in advance as tickets sold out for the river cruise and the museum line was at least an hour wait.

There were very few people wearing masks and maintaining social distance. Lines were long at the major attractions, but we never waited long for a table to eat. We also experienced a partial train strike which added to the difficulty of getting to the airport on already busy trains. Give yourself plenty of extra time to get to the airport.”

May 2022 – Mike C., American traveler: “Travel in Paris was pretty relaxed. There’s no more green pass or need to show vaccine card. Technically there were some rules on public transit to wear a mask. But it felt more like a choice as it was 50/50 on who did and didn’t. Transit was literally the only place with masking in Paris. Crowds felt like Paris is back to normal.”

March 9, 2022 – Erica of Nice French Things, French resident: “It’s the perfect time to visit Paris. Lines are short (or nonexistent) and monuments and tourist attractions are under capacity. Asian tourists have not returned yet and other Europeans are visiting their own countries they haven’t seen in the past 2 years.

Testing and tracing has been perfected here. Our vaccine pass will stop being required on Monday so we will be free to go to museums, theaters, restaurants without showing pass and we will not be required to wear masks. Pharmacies are the go-to for everything. Easy, fast, cheap tests done there. Paris area just reduced price permanently on regional rail tickets. Very advantageous for visitors.”

February 15, 2022 – Ingrid of Second Half Travels , U.S. traveler: “I’m spending 5 weeks in Paris and Montpellier currently studying French. COVID case numbers are dropping steeply in France. However, tourism numbers in February are still very low, so it’s a great time to visit to enjoy uncrowded museums and other sights.

My flight from Dallas to Paris in February was almost empty. I had a whole row of 9 seats to myself. Rapid and PCR tests are readily available at French pharmacies. It was easy and quick to get my Pass Vaccinal at an airport pharmacy when I arrived for 36 euros; I just showed my CDC vaccination proof of my vaccines and booster.

The Pass Vaccinal is supposed to be checked at all restaurants, museums, and long-distance trains. In practice, restaurants and trains sometimes fail to check. The Louvre and Musée d’Orsay in Paris were uncrowded: no large tour groups, only individual tourists from neighboring European countries like Spain. A Parisian friend told me, ‘You will never see Paris uncrowded like this again.’ I have actually extended my trip to add on more days in Paris to take advantage of this unique opportunity.”

October 23, 2021 – Jennifer A., American tourist: “ We had a fantastic time. We were very careful the entire week we were in Paris. Wore our masks everywhere and washed our hands a lot.  Instead of doing two or three things in a day, we just did one major tourist thing each day. To be honest, that made the trip more enjoyable. We used the Paris Museum Pass and that was great. I ordered the five day passes and they mailed them to me last month. A couple of the museums required us to book a time slot to get in. I was of course concerned about passing a COVID test 72 hours prior to returning to the U.S. My sister and I walked about 500 feet from our hotel to a pharmacy to take the COVID test. The cost was 25 Euros for each one of us. The gentleman in the pharmacy was so professional. We also received our results via email in about 30 minutes. Unbelievable. We were able to upload the COVID results to a VERIFLY app that American Airlines wanted us to use. It made things a lot easier to go home.  The French residents were all so nice to us. I am so glad we went.”

October 6, 2021 – Nick Winder, Illness To Ultra , American digital nomad: “I flew to Paris in order to transit to the south of France to visit family. Although there are still people visiting Paris, it’s obvious the tourist rates are reduced. Locals are more than welcoming, but the requirement of a health pass, even for foreign visitors proves challenge for both tourists, and local business owners. Nearly every local was compliant with city regulations, which is a must, especially considering public transport can still be busy. Access to testing and healthcare is abundant among pharmacies, although Sundays many pharmacies are closed. Most local attractions still remain open, although at a reduced capacity, but the reduced tourist level lines are not much of a problem. Just be aware that many attractions are ticketed.”

September 13, 2021 – Susan, US traveler: “ We’ve been in Paris almost 2 weeks finding it somewhat changed in several ways. We read that you can get the Passe Sanitiaire at pharmacies, yet, we’ve gone to more than I can count always being told that pharmacies are not providing them. At one yesterday, the owner said he believes that people were getting antigen tests at the pharmacy which gives a 72-hour Passe Sanitiaire. Tourists are few especially Americans. Some stores are permanently closed in touristy areas while nothing has changed in our neighborhood that is more residents of Paris.”

November 2021 – Roobens, French citizen in Paris, Been Around the Globe : “Everything reopened in May (bars, restaurants, gyms, clubs, etc.) in France. Meaning life is more or less back to normal. You just need to have a health pass to prove you’re fully vaccinated. And you have to wear a mask indoors (at the supermarket, when taking the metro, etc.). People are more than ready to travel in Europe only right now. Outside Europe it’s a different story since many borders are still closed. It’s very easy to get tested and to get vaccinated. There’s also an app for contact tracing, most people use it (it’s called “AntiCovid”). Everything is open (museums, restaurants, tourist attractions, etc.).”

September 2021 – Susan, traveling to Paris from US: “My husband and I flew to Paris in August-September 2021 for a 3 week visit with my daughter who lives there as a digital nomad. Tourists are very welcome if fully vaccinated. Major tourist attractions were uncrowded, though online ticket purchases are still recommended. Restaurants were full, especially the venues with large outdoor seating areas. (Travelers should be aware that diners frequently smoke in the outdoor areas.) Nevertheless, this may have been the best time in recent years to be in Paris, due to small crowd size.  Paris was very ready to serve customers in the time of Covid. The French population is >70% vaccinated and the digital vaccine passport works well for French residents (but not visitors). Visitors should bring their original vaccine card to get on the airplane, but a laminated photocopy worked well at every location.

A vaccine card (or proof of a negative Covid test within 72 hours) was required at every.single.sit-down eating establishment, hotel, museum, or major tourist destination. Proof was not required to ride public transportation.

Surgical (not cloth) masks are required in every indoor space. Indoor mask-wearing was being strictly followed, with an occasional scofflaw in the subways. Compliance was certainly better than most places in the US. Almost all restaurants had outdoor patio seating available, though the desirability of this may change as the weather cools. Take-out businesses and park-bench dining were thriving. I did not see evidence that contact tracing (in restaurants) was happening. There are Covid testing tents in most busy squares, but many are not accessible to non-residents because they don’t have the ability to charge the required fee there. Covid testing (required for return to the US, and elsewhere) can be done in pharmacies and labs. Your hotel desk may help you find a location. Caution – our results did not arrive via text, as promised, probably because we didn’t have a French phone number. We ended up waiting in a very slow line at the lab to get the results.”

August 30, 2021 – Melissa Suzuno , U.S. visitor: “I’m spending a week in Paris in late August/early September 2021 and my trip is just for fun but as a freelance writer, I’m also doing some work here.  I’m not sure if I’d really describe Parisians as “welcoming,” (haha) but tourism is alive and well in Paris. I did an Airbnb Experience and about half of the participants were French and half were American. The guide said that the number of Americans had decreased for a while but seems to be bouncing back. There are restrictions in place and they seem to be followed quite consistently. For example, you need to show your health pass (or recent negative COVID test) to eat in a restaurant (even outside) or enter a museum. Everywhere I’ve gone has enforced this. Local attractions like museums are open, but they recommend (and sometimes require) you to reserve your time in advance. I’ve gotten a few tests since I’ve been here (to get the temporary health pass). Tests are available in nearly any pharmacy and cost around 30 euros.”

June 2021 – Leyla, Offbeat France , French resident:  “I took a walking tour in the Marais a few days ago and we had one American tourist – the guide said it was her first of the season. Most tourists are French or European in Paris, but with the lockdown now lifted, a few Americans are beginning to arrive. In Paris, I’d say about 90% of people are following the rules. There is the occasional person who doesn’t cover their face in the subway or bus but they do get sideways looks from others. Everyone is masked in shops, because the owners will get fined otherwise. There’s usually plenty of gel at the door or at the cash register. In the streets, quite a few people still wear masks, considering that they are no longer mandatory. As the hot weather moves in, there will probably be fewer masks in the streets. The attached photo shows people do occasionally wear masks outdoors.”

June 2021 – Lena, Salut from Paris , French resident: “ Paris experienced a collective sigh in relief during the past weeks and enjoys the pure presence of normality – and travelers clearly belong to this normality.  Just a couple of weeks ago, the obligation to wear masks outdoors got lifted. Indoors, it is still mandatory and the vast majority is complying. Food services and attractions are open again. However, while the online booking service of attractions assures that the number of visitors is not exceeded, I observe often that bars and restaurants are way fuller than they should be. It is recommended in France that everyone, locals and travelers, are downloading the app #tousanticovid for tracing and alerts. If a visitor requires a covid test, they can easily get tested in pharmacies.”

May 2021 – Audrey, French Resident in Lyon: “Since May 19, the curfew is now starting at 9:00 pm. Restaurants (only outdoor dining), boutiques, movie theatres, museums… have re-opened, only accepting half of the possible guests (which means you need to book everything or wait long lines on the sidewalk). Travel between regions is fully allowed before curfew and after if you’re filing an exemption form (if your train or flight arrives at 9:30 pm for example). All French people over 50 are being vaccinated. Our next milestones are the following: – May 31: opening of vaccination to everyone – June 9: opening of indoor dining and more people allowed in boutiques and such. Of course, wearing a mask is still mandatory everywhere public, inside and out.”

Planning a trip to Paris France?

Check out our other Paris, France travel resources: – Preparing for a Budget Trip to France   – Where to Stay in Paris France: Best Neighborhoods Hotels Airbnbs – Travel Seasons: The Best Time to Visit Europe

If you have questions or updates about travel to Paris, France during the Coronavirus crisis or post-pandemic, please let us know in the comments below.

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Disclaimer: Please note, travel restrictions change frequently. Readers must take responsibility for verifying information through official sources like the State Department and CDC, in respect to their specific situations. No responsibility can be accepted by Intentional Travelers for action or inaction as a result of information provided through IntentionalTravelers.com. Any information provided here is issued as general information only.

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https://www.euronews.com/2022/03/03/covid-in-europe-france-to-scrap-face-masks-and-vaccine-passes-on-14-march

Looks like things may be loosening up by March 14th hopefully

Michelle, I have seen articles with Forbes, euro news & Reuters on the vaccine pass getting scrapped by March 14th in Paris except for in hospitals and on public transportation. Do you have any knowledge of this? Thanks Wendy

Hi Wendy! Thank you for visiting our blog. That information is correct. The French Government has recently announced that effective March 14, the vaccine pass will not be required to enter most businesses such as restaurants, bars, cafes, ski lifts, museums, cinemas and other cultural venues and theme parks. However, proof of vaccination will still be required in hospitals, retirement homes, and health centers.

I am a fully vaccinated/boosted American who will be arriving in Brest, France for one day, May 10, on a cruise ship followed with a one day stop in LeHavre, France on May 12. I’m aware of the French Vaccine Pass but can’t find anything about what is needed for a cruise ship arrival. Any help you can provide will be greatly appreciated.

Hi Susan. The French government does not specify restrictions for cruise ship passengers, therefore, the current entry rules for air travelers may also apply to travelers who want to go ashore in French ports. I understand that you are fully vaccinated/boosted, which is already compliant to France’s entry rules (you can find the details in our blog). Your cruise ship operator may also have information regarding entry rules to France. We will update our blog if the French government releases information regarding cruise ship arrivals. I hope this helps.

I just received this from Eurostar “You are considered fully vaccinated for travel purposes if you are aged 18 and over and: *you received a COVID-19 vaccine booster*

*you received the second dose of a two-dose vaccine at least a week ago, but no more than nine months ago*

So the important word here is “OR”. Sounds like it’s just what you said Michelle…thank you so much!!!

Thanks for following up, Debbi!

The new booster requirement is very confusing to me. I’ve read other articles where it says, if you don’t get a booster “within 9 months of original vaccine” then you’re considered unvaccinated.

I’m hoping you or someone you know can confirm this. My vaccination dates are as follows: Moderna – 4/5/2021 Moderna – 5/3/2021 Moderna Booster – 2/12/2022

Traveling at the end of March 2022 – As of now, will I be considered fully vaccinated and allowed to enter France? Or did I get the booster too late?

Thank you. Your article is very helpful!

Hi Katherine. We acknowledge that this requirement has been confusing. The way the official rule was translated in English makes it sound like the booster must be done *within* a certain timeframe. However, an expiration like this would be highly impractical and, in fact, most reporting on the requirement say more clearly: “Travelers aged 18 and over who had their full vaccine course over 9 months ago and have not since received a COVID-19 vaccine booster must follow the rules for unvaccinated passengers to enter France.” We have been researching this closely and have not seen any evidence of travelers being denied for a “late” booster, nor does France ever mention needing a second booster. We are keeping a close eye on this and will share any updates as they become available.

Thank you so much for your reply! I will keep a close eye on your page for any other updates.

Hello Michelle,

I am confused about the new protocol in France re: vaccinations and boosters. If I had my 2 vaccinations last Feb and March 2021 and then my booster 6 months later, am I considered “fully vaccinated”? Also, my adult son had his 2 vaccinations, the second being May 6th. He has not yet had his booster. I am reading that there is a 9 month expiration of his initial vaccinations so as of Feb 6 (3 days ago) he can no longer be considered “fully vaccinated” even if he gets his booster immediately?

Debbi, I hear you. This particular requirement can certainly be confusing, not to mention constantly changing. The way France has written the booster rule (“no later than nine months following the injection of the last required dose”) makes it sound like the booster must be done *within* 9 months of the second dose to enter France (or soon to be 4 months for the vaccine pass to enter restaurants). However, an expiration like this seems highly impractical and, in fact, most reporting on the requirement say more clearly: “Travelers aged 18 and over who had their full vaccine course over 9 months ago and have not since received a COVID-19 vaccine booster must follow the rules for unvaccinated passengers to enter France.” This would indicate that your son can be considered fully vaccinated once he gets a booster, even if the booster is done after 9 months. I’m assuming it’s just a translation/wording problem because I have not seen anywhere that travelers with “late” booster doses would lose any chance of being considered fully vaccinated. We are keeping a close eye on this and will share any updates as they become available.

Boosters every 4 months??! Wow

Yes, it seems to be the case. Like so many protocols, though, it could very well change.

I have a trip planned to Paris March 18,2022. I am reading that everyone needs to have the booster shot after being vaccinated for 4 months or you will not get the Vaccine Pass. Do you know if this rule is also mandatory for people going to France from the US? Some articles I have read say it is mandatory and others say it is not. Do you happen to know?

Thanks for your question Susie. I think part of the confusion is that the rules have changed recently. The following update is directly from the French government website in regards to foreigners vaccinated outside of France: “Since the 15th of January 2022, people aged 18 years and 1 month or more and who completed their initial vaccination scheme more than 7 months ago will need to present a proof of a booster dose to be eligible to receive a vaccine equivalency health pass.” I’m not sure why this site does not list the change to a 4 month rule that reportedly goes into effect in February. Perhaps confirmation is still forthcoming.

I am fully vaccinated. I had my booster in Dec. of 2021. I am going to France in June 2022, 6 months after my booster. Do I need a second booster in order to get in the country, or the receive the Health Certificate to allow me into restaurants and museums?

Hi Rebecca. We acknowledge that this requirement has been confusing. The way the official rule was translated in English makes it sound like the booster must be done *within* a certain timeframe. However, an expiration like this would be highly impractical and, in fact, most reporting on the requirement say more clearly: “Travelers aged 18 and over who had their full vaccine course over 9 months ago and have not since received a COVID-19 vaccine booster must follow the rules for unvaccinated passengers to enter France.” We have been researching this closely and have not seen any evidence of travelers being denied for a “late” booster, nor does France ever mention needing a second booster at this time. If you are boosted, you meet the current requirements to enter France and to receive the vaccine certificate. We are keeping a close eye on this and will share any updates as they become available.

I am wanting to plan a trip to take my 14 yr old daughter to Paris the last week of March 2022 on her spring break. I am fully vaccinated, but she is not. She has lab proof of antibodies – also sadly I’m being treated for a blood clot from my Covid vaccine which leads to my hesitation to vaccinate her. All of that aside- I see the paragraph that says travelers ages 11-17 are considered vaccinated if traveling with a fully vaccinated parent (I understand we would both need negative Covid test as well) I have read multiple other sites and I’ve seen this same info but have also seen on other sites everyone 12 & older must be vaccinated unless they’re going to quarantine for 10 days. Do you know what the policy is on this as we do not have 10 days to quarantine. IF she is able to come & not quarantine what would we do to get her a health pass or QR code to enter tourist sites? These are questions I cannot seem to clear up & I want to be sure before I would plan this. I am willing to email or call to France if I had the appropriate number and email contact. I’ve already sent an email a week ago through a government site and still do not have a response. Thank you in advance for any help/info you may have.

Thank you for visiting our blog. Current France travel rules states that “The measures applicable to fully vaccinated adults will be extended under the same conditions to minors accompanying them, regardless of vaccination status.” Since you are vaccinated, your 14-year-old daughter will be treated as vaccinated as well and will not need to quarantine. A negative test is however required for all travelers aged 12 and over. You can check the U.S. Embassy in France or the France Diplomacy websites for more information.

Regarding the health pass, persons age 12-15 require a health pass everywhere a vaccine pass is required. You can obtain a vaccine pass (or a health pass for your daughter) from designated pharmacies in France for a fee of up to 36 Euros (approximately 41.18 USD). You can check here for the map of designated pharmacies in France. You can check our blog for more information about the health pass and regular updates about France’s travel requirements. Hope this helps.

Thank you for your reply. As far as the health pass goes for my 14 yr old daughter, since she is not vaccinated am I understanding that in order for her to obtain one from the French pharmacies she will have to pass a Covid test every 24 hrs. for a fee of 36 euros each time to keep it active in order to be admitted into restaurants, museums, etc.? I have clicked on the map of pharmacies to actually check with one but everything on that page is in French. I am just making sure I understand this. Thank you

Wendy, an unvaccinated 14 year old would need a test within 24 hours in order to enter restaurants, attractions, and long-distance travel. She would not need to test daily unless you are visiting places where the pass is required each day. Antigen tests are 25 euros (36 was for the vaccine equivalent, sorry for the confusion). Here is a more direct link to pharmacy testing location map, you just have to keep clicking to zoom in on Paris: https://www.sante.fr/cf/carte-depistage-covid.html

Excellent information! Merci! It is January in the US right now and we are planning our trip to Paris for mid April 20 22 very excited but also so concerned because of the omicron variant now. I will follow your blog and see if any new postings are out as January comes to an end I am getting ready to book our trip now. Thanks again so much.

Great blog! Thanks for sharing paris travel restrictions, really helpful content.

I am planning a trip to Paris September 22 through 29th with a one day bus trip to Normandy. I understand that since I have a CDC proof of vaccination I do not need a test to enter France. However I do need a Travel Pass which would be obtained at a Pharmacy. I had read that the French government was paying for tests in order for tourists to return to their country of origin but not sure that is correct. My main question, does this process of receiving the Travel Pass work “smooth” or could there be snags. Same question for the required Covid-19 test upon returning, are there ample Pharmacy and testing sites for tourists? Has anyone taken a survey of recent travelers? Thank you

Thanks for visiting our blog. The French health pass for non-EU citizens is still relatively new and the protocols for visitors in September don’t seem to be fully established yet. Official guidance can be found here . At the moment, visitors coming before August 18 are able to submit their proof of vaccination by email before arrival to get the pass (a QR code). In case it’s not processed in time, getting tested in France is a temporary “back-up” method, valid for 72 hours. I’ve also seen that some travelers have been able to show their CDC vaccine card at a pharmacy in Paris to receive a QR code within 15 minutes, but I’m not sure how common that is yet. We will continue to seek out on-the-ground reports from recent travelers to find out how it’s going, and we’ll regularly update this post as we learn more.

We are scheduled to arrive Paris September 7, cruise to Normandy from the 9th through 16th, spend two more days in Paris, returning to U.S. on the 18th. The CDC and State Department alerts say “do not travel” and also warn about demonstrations and violence in tourist areas of major cities. We are in our 70s, fully vaccinated, but also cancer survivors. Should we cancel our trip?

I understand your concern. It’s a question I’ve been getting a lot lately with all the uncertainty around Europe travel so I wrote an article about it here: https://intentionaltravelers.com/should-i-reschedule-my-trip/ There is no right answer, as it depends on your values and risk tolerance, so I can’t really make that call for you. Demonstrations in Paris are certainly an additional factor to consider. But just to give some perspective… I’ve never been to Paris when there *wasn’t* a demonstration going by on my Uncle’s street, although they can vary in intensity. Usually protest locations are known so they can be avoided. However, if potentially dealing with that sounds too stressful, it may be a reason to cancel. Being fully vaccinated makes a huge difference but even so, cruising and travel in France during the pandemic is not without risk. Does the benefit of this trip outweigh that risk? Will worry get in the way of your enjoyment? That’s up to you.

Is there an app to use to show proof of vaccine status for visitors from outside the EU?

Thanks for your question. The E.U. vaccine app is only available to citizens and residents of the EU so far. Whether this will eventually be made available for non-EU tourists to facilitate travel in Europe is not yet clear, but we’ll be sure to update our blog posts here if that changes.

I am a US citizen planning a trip from USA to London and then to Paris. Is there any rules for US citizen traveling to Paris, via London by train?

Good question. Traveling through some countries to France can complicate the requirements. Whereas the U.S. is on the “green list”, the U.K. is on the “amber list” for France and the rules for the UK would apply since that’s where you’ll be departing from to enter France. Fully vaccinated travelers can enter France without an essential reason and would need to present a recent negative Covid test and proof of vaccination status. More details can be found here: https://www.diplomatie.gouv.fr/en/coming-to-france/coronavirus-advice-for-foreign-nationals-in-france/#sommaire_1

Hi Michelle,

It looks like France is no longer requiring a negative PCR test for vaccinated travelers from “Green” countries (the US included).

Or is it? Later on that page it states “(if you are aged 11 years or older) you agree to submit to a virological RT-PCR test for SARS-CoV-2 upon arrival in France.”

What are your thoughts?

Hi Ben. Thank you for visiting our blog. It is correct that France is no longer requiring a negative PCR test for fully vaccinated travelers from the United States and other Green countries. If a traveler (aged 11 years or older) from Green countries is not fully vaccinated, then a negative PCR or antigen test is required. A negative PCR or antigen test is also required for allowed travelers coming from “Orange” and “Red” countries.

A quick update from France: Since May 19, the curfew is now starting at 9:00 pm. Restaurants (only outdoor dining), boutiques, movie theatres, museums… have re-opened, only accepting half of the possible guests (which means you need to book everything or wait long lines on the sidewalk). Travel between regions is fully allowed before curfew and after if you’re filing an exemption form (if your train or flight arrives at 9:30 pm for example). All French people over 50 are being vaccinated. Our next milestones are the following: – May 31: opening of vaccination to everyone – June 9: opening of indoor dining and more people allowed in boutiques and such. Of course, wearing a mask is still mandatory everywhere public, inside and out.

Hi! Thanks so much for sharing these updates from France!

I have friends in Paris and I’m thinking about going next month…. Will the restrictions ease by then?

Hello and thank you for visiting our blog. I understand your concern about your trip next month, though we don’t have any special insight as to when protocols might change, beyond what we’ve already shared in the article. We will do our best to keep updating this post as the situation progresses.

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Traveling to France? There are new rules. Here's what you need to know

Editor's Note

France is nothing if inconsistent in maintaining its COVID-19 entry protocols, having changed the process for obtaining the requisite digital health pass four times, now requiring a COVID-19 booster shot for visitors, reinstituting mask mandates and, just yesterday, instituting quarantine for unvaccinated visitors from certain countries, including the United States.

For American travelers heading to France soon or planning a trip in the future, here's what to expect as of Jan. 3.

For more TPG news delivered each morning to your inbox, sign up for our daily newsletter .

Entry requirements for fully vaccinated travelers

Entry rules to France depend on the country from which you are coming, designated by color, available here . The U.S. is currently a "red list country," and entry requirements are as follows.

Fully vaccinated travelers from the U.S. who are age 18 and older may enter the country by showing proof of vaccination, results of a negative COVID-19 test (PCR or antigen) taken within 48 hours prior to departure for France and a sworn statement attesting they do not have symptoms of COVID-19 nor have had contact with any confirmed cases of COVID-19.

Acceptable vaccination proof

Currently, France recognizes vaccines approved by the World Health Organization and European Medicines Agency, specifically Pfizer,  Moderna, AstraZeneca and Johnson & Johnson. Those who have received a full dose of a WHO-licensed vaccine not approved by the EMA require an additional single dose of an EMA-approved mRNA vaccine, either Pfizer or Moderna.

Travelers are considered fully vaccinated 28 days after receiving one dose of a single-dose vaccine, seven days after receiving a two-dose vaccine or seven days after receiving an additional dose of an EMA-approved  mRNA vaccine for those who received a WHO-licensed vaccine not approved by the EMA.

Per the U.S. Embassy in France, the  card issued by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is considered "sufficient proof of vaccination for entry."

Entry requirements for unvaccinated travelers

Currently, unvaccinated and partially vaccinated travelers are only able to enter France if they possess a "compelling reason for travel," including students and those transiting France for less than 24 hours. A full list of pressing grounds for travel to/from "red" countries is available from the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs, but note the majority of exceptions are not applicable to Americans.

Unvaccinated Americans approved for entry must show a negative COVID-19 test (PCR or antigen) performed within 48 hours before departure and are also subject to a second test upon arrival. They must quarantine for 10 days, followed by an additional test.

Ahead of travel, unvaccinated travelers must complete a screening form .

Related: Applications for France's digital health pass are temporarily closed

Rules for children

Testing, vaccination and booster requirements apply to travelers who are 12 and older, and American visitors must show results of a negative PCR or antigen test taken within 48 hours to enter the country.

"Travelers under age 11 are treated as vaccinated regardless of their vaccination status and do not need to have a COVID test. Travelers ages 11 through 17 are treated as vaccinated if they are accompanied by a fully vaccinated parent or guardian," says the embassy. "Travelers in this age group traveling independently must meet the rules applicable to adult travelers."

French health pass

A health pass is required to access most indoor public spaces, including restaurants/bars, museums, entertainment venues and sporting facilities. It's also necessary for long-distance travel throughout the country on public transit. A health pass can be obtained for $40 by showing proof of vaccination at a local French pharmacy on a walk-in basis. Unvaccinated or partially vaccinated travelers can obtain a temporary 24-hour pass by taking a rapid antigen test at a pharmacy. Temporary pass holders will need to procure a new pass after the 24-hour period.

The French government previously announced they expect use of the "pass sanitaire" to continue through at least July.

As of Jan. 15, all travelers to France age 18 and older must show proof of a COVID-19 booster shot taken within five to seven months after their final dose of a COVID-19 vaccine in order to retain an active health pass. Prior to this date, the booster is only required for those 65 and older.

Mask mandate

Face masks remain mandatory for all those in indoor public spaces throughout the country and are required outdoors in Paris as of Dec. 31, 2021, including in markets. Outdoor mask requirements vary throughout France, so consult local authorities before visiting your destination.

Bottom line

French officials have modified their entry rules based on COVID-19 developments. Consult the U.S. Embassy and French Ministry for the most up-to-date information.

Both the U.S. Department of State and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have issued Level 4 travel warnings for France, advising Americans to avoid travel to the country.

Other countries, including the United Arab Emirates and Israel , have banned travel for unvaccinated persons, in addition to requiring a COVID-19 booster for vaccinated tourists.

Related: My experience entering Israel as a vaccinated tourist

Paris Travel Safety Guide for 2024

Paris is the most-visited city in the world , with 44 million tourists in 2022. But is this capital as safe as it is beautiful?

Yes. But the long answer is slightly more nuanced.

In this guide, we share safety tips, give you an overview of the capital’s crime rates, pinpoint dangerous areas to avoid, and discuss how safe the major tourist attractions, like the Eiffel Tower, are. On a lighter note, we touch upon Paris’ weather and the best time to visit.

Is Paris Safe?

The Economist ranked Paris as the 23rd safest city worldwide. So yes, Paris is just as safe as other major cities like New York , Amsterdam , and London , but you need to follow basic precautions for optimal safety.

Here are the main takeaways:

• Crime rate: Moderate at 57.76
• Common crimes: Petty theft and drug use
• Extreme weather events: Floods and heatwaves
• Poor air quality: Winter
• Solo travel safety: The city is safe for solo travel, but walking alone at night isn’t advised
• COVID-19 safety: All COVID-19 measures are lifted
• Carbon monoxide poisoning: Possible, so bring a portable CO detector

Travel Advisory for Paris

According to the U.S. State Department’s travel advisory , the safety of Paris falls in the level 2 category – ‘Exercise Increased Caution.’

In this advisory, the authorities warn tourists of the following:

“Incidents such as pickpocketing and phone snatchings occur frequently and can happen anywhere, especially in crowded areas such as airports, train stations, subway and train cars, and near tourist attractions.

Peaceful demonstrations and strikes in Paris and other cities throughout France occur regularly and can disrupt transportation. On rare occasions, demonstrations have included violence and property damage.

Terrorists may attack with little or no warning , targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, local government facilities, hotels, clubs, restaurants, places of worship, parks, major sporting and cultural events, educational institutions, airports, and other public areas.”

The travel advisories of Canada and the United Kingdom also place Paris in the same “Exercise Increased Caution” category. They emphasize similar points on petty theft, demonstrations, and terrorist attacks, plus the following extra points:

“ Violent crimes are less common but still happen . Occasionally, tourists become targets of violent attacks by groups of young individuals aiming to rob them.

Theft from parked cars, or even the cars themselves, is particularly common on beach roads in the southern regions of France and at highway rest stops across the country, especially during the summer when there’s a high number of travelers.

The urban and intercity public transportation systems are reliable. However, it’s essential to be cautious of illegal taxis operating in Paris airports and train stations. These fraudulent operators charge significantly higher rates than the official taxi services.”

Keep in mind that these travel advisories apply to all of France, but since Paris is the French epicenter, it’s more likely to be the hotspot.

A Comprehensive Look at Paris Crime Rates

On Numbeo, France has a moderate crime rating of 57.76. The most prevalent types of crime are property crimes, vandalism, theft, verbal insults, drug-related incidents, and home break-ins—so, most of the crimes in Paris are non-violent, as major travel advisories underline.

In fact, violent crimes have actually decreased by 25% in 2023, according to the police . Tourists should feel safe when they explore the city alone during the day. However, the data suggests that Paris is slightly less safe during the night. If you’re traveling alone, it’s a good idea to err on the side of caution and limit your adventures to the daytime.

The Most Dangerous Areas in Paris

The most dangerous areas in Paris are usually located on the outskirts of the city’s center, such as the Bobingy, Clichy-sous-Bois, and Nanterre neighborhoods .

The major transit hubs like the Gare du Nord, Gare de l’Est, and the enormous metro station Châtelet-Les Halles are also hotspots for petty crimes, especially at night . So if you’re looking for a way to return to your hotel at night, you might want to take a taxi instead.

Police Presence in Paris

The capital is protected by the Prefecture of Police (Préfecture de Police), which includes both national and municipal police.

Famous attractions like the Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, and Champs-Élysées are under the watchful eye of the police, but seeing officers on the streets, around malls, metro stations, and other spots around the city is also very common.

If you need any assistance or protection, there are regular and tourist police stations throughout Paris that you can turn to. In case of an emergency, you can also dial 112 for prompt assistanc e.

Public Transportation Safety in Paris

Public transport in Paris can attract pickpockets and petty criminals, so it’s important to be cautious while you’re getting around the city. One train, the RER B , is notorious for petty crime . To stay safe, keep your valuables super close to you and pay extra attention to the people around you, especially the ones who are sitting or standing next to you.

Medical Care Quality in Paris

The French healthcare system was named the best in the world by the World Health Organization in 1997 and 2000. In 2021 , it was ranked 25th in healthcare innovation.

When you’re in France, you can choose between public and private hospitals.

Public hospitals might have higher patient volumes but are cheaper. On the flip side, private hospitals often have a higher likelihood of English-speaking doctors and nurses, but they come with a higher price tag. So, budget-conscious travelers, take note!

If you’re in need of medical care while in Paris, we recommend some of the following hospitals:

• The Quinze-Vingt National Ophthalmologic Hospital Center
• Saint Anne Hospital
• The American Hospital
• Trousseau Hospital
• Bichat-Claude Bernard Hospital
• Bretonneau Hospital

Is It Safe to Travel Solo in Paris?

Paris is a safe and welcoming city for solo travelers. However, like in any bustling place, it’s a good idea to stay aware of your surroundings so you’re more prepared for the unexpected.

This means not sharing personal information with strangers, like the address of your hotel. Explore the city during the day and avoid wandering late at night. If you think you’re being followed, sprint to a cafe, hotel, or any other place where there are people around.

Police are present around the city for anything you need. But just in case, consider letting a friend know where you are and give them a heads-up once you’re back in your room from a night out.

Perils of Nature: The Risk of Natural Disasters in Paris

In the City of Light, you’re not at risk of witnessing a hurricane, earthquake, or a volcanic eruption, but there are still some environmental dangers you need to be aware of.

Paris is nestled right beside the Seine River, which can overflow when there’s heavy rain and has been known to flood the city .

In 2022 , Paris got a whole month’s worth of rain in just one hour, which resulted in multiple metro stations and streets getting flooded. Then, fast forward to June 2023 , the Seine rose again due to Storm Oscar and roads, venues, and businesses near the riverbanks had to temporarily shut down until the situation got better.

Tourists can’t control or prevent floods in Paris, but what they can do is stay informed. Floods usually happen during the rainy months of November, December, January, March, and May . Be especially cautious around these months, keep an eye on the weather forecast , and plan your trip accordingly. Book a hotel in higher areas or not in the immediate vicinity of the riverbanks.

Paris is more susceptible to heatwaves than any other capital in Europe. In 2023, the hottest day in Paris was September 9th, reaching 95.7°F (35.5°C). It’s estimated that by 2050, the city might start experiencing temperatures as high as 122°F (50°C).

Extreme heat makes Paris almost unbearable. If you go outside during the hottest parts of the day, the heat can make you feel dizzy or you can get heatstroke . Plus, it’s common for outdoor places or events to close or get canceled in the middle of a heatwave.

The hottest months in Paris are July and August . Our recommendation is that you plan your trip around them, or at least try to avoid the hottest days of these months. To have the best time if you do go, remember to drink lots of water, use sunscreen, and take breaks in the shade.

Air Quality Issues

Paris is a bustling city with lots of people, businesses, ongoing construction, and a lot of traffic. As the city expands, the presence of airborne dust and microscopic particles do, too — and they pose a potential risk to our respiratory health.

The air pollution in Paris peaks during the winter months . On the worst days, you might feel symptoms like itchy eyes, a sore throat, or a headache. Plus, you won’t be able to see far, which isn’t great if you want to enjoy the cool sights the city has to offer.

If you’re planning a winter trip to Paris, check the Paris air quality index in real-time as you plan for outdoor activities . If the pollution levels are high, stay indoors as much as possible.

The Silent Threat of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning in Paris

According to the World Health Organization , CO claims more lives annually than HIV/AIDS or skin cancer and just slightly less than alcohol abuse.

The deadly gas took the life of one Parisian woman in 2020 . She left her car’s ignition running in the garage attached to her home, unknowingly exposing herself to this gas. Similarly, during a Christmas Eve service in northern France in 2019 , churchgoers experienced headaches from CO, leading to 21 people needing hospitalization.

As you get settled into your hotel or accommodation in Paris, make sure you ask the staff if there is a CO detector in your room . These devices monitor the air quality in the room and alert you if a deadly gas is leaking. For extra safety, carry a portable CO detector . This device is not expensive (~ $20) and you can take it with you to whatever destination you go to.

Paris Climate: From Temperate Oceanic to the Occasional Heatwave

Paris has a temperate oceanic climate. That means the capital enjoys warm summers and cool winters and gets rain pretty much throughout the whole year.

July and August are the hottest months, with temperatures around 68.9°F (20.5°C). Meanwhile, December, January and February are the coldest, hovering around 40°F (5°C). May is usually the rainiest month, whereas February and March are the driest.

Paris weather has a quirk, too—occasional heatwaves. During these super-hot spells, the temperatures can soar to the mid-80s to low 90s°F (30s°C) and might even hit a scorching 104°F (40°C). If you’re there in the middle of a heatwave, make sure you limit outdoor activity to avoid the risk of heatstroke.

Monthly Average Temperatures in Paris

When is the best time to visit paris.

Paris welcomes around 44 million visitors yearly, and most of them decide to visit during the summer, from July to August . And it’s no surprise—who doesn’t enjoy long sunny days?

But, there are some downsides to the summer rush. The famous spots like the Eiffel Tower get crowded, and it’s very likely you’ll need to book a table at restaurants well in advance every time you go out to eat. Also, hotel prices and airline tickets skyrocket, and there’s always the possibility of a heat wave.

So if you do go to Paris in the summer months, when the city’s tourist season is at its peak, plan to visit its most iconic locations on weekday mornings. Take a leisurely walk instead of squeezing onto public transportation. Keep an eye on the weather forecast and plan ahead of time for the cheapest deals.

Another alternative is to visit Paris in the fall, from September to October, or in spring, in March or April . The weather is still lovely, and you can sit at those charming Parisian cafes in peace since they won’t be as jam-packed with tourists. Plus, it’s often more budget-friendly.

In the end, Paris is beautiful throughout the year—so the best time to visit it is going to be more a matter of personal preference than anything else. Pick the time that suits you best and enjoy the City of Light!

How to Stay Safe in Paris

• Choose well-known and trusted hotels
• Stick to busy streets, even if it means a slightly longer walk
• Be cautious when crossing streets, even if the walk sign is on—double-check for any cars speeding by
• Keep an eye out for cyclists and scooters, and make sure not to walk or stand in their lanes
• When you get into a taxi, make sure the “TAXI PARISIEN” sign is on the roof. Beware of fake taxis, especially around nightclubs and bars at night
• Carry only the cash and bank cards you need for the day
• Make a photocopy of your passport/visa to carry with you and leave the original at your accommodation
• Keep an eye on your belongings in metros and tourist spots
• Don’t leave your electronics or wallet on the table at cafes, especially if you’re outside
• Use ATMs inside banks if possible and count your money discreetly

Emergency Numbers

• Fire Brigade: 18
• Ambulance: 15
• European emergency number: 112

The Eiffel Tower is very safe—it has a strict security system in place. Once you enter the premises, you go through two security checks: the first one is at the entrance, and the second is just before you get into the tower itself. If the security personnel find anything that could be a risk to people’s or the monument’s safety, they have the right to take it away or forbid the person carrying it from entering the building. Also, there are no luggage lockers in the Eiffel Tower, so if you’ve got big bags, you may not be able to enter. Kids under 4 can enter for free, but only folding strollers are allowed. Scooters and bicycles can’t be brought in because of their size. The Eiffel Tower is a tourist hotspot, so it’s wise to be aware of your surroundings because pickpocketing is prevalent in large crowds of tourists. Keep your valuables super close to you, especially phones and wallets.

Paris might not be your typical coastal city like Cancun or Dubai , but it has its own artificial beach known as Paris Plages along the Seine River. Visitors’ safety is a key priority, and entry is free. You can find plenty of lifeguards keeping a watchful eye on everyone. The pools have different water depths to suit all swimmers, and you can relax knowing that the water quality is checked daily, with the premises disinfected every two hours. In terms of safety, Paris Plages is generally okay. However, like any public area, it’s important to be cautious. Keep a close eye on your valuables, especially in larger crowds.

One reason is that the capital isn’t near the ocean, which usually helps keep things cooler. Paris is also quite flat, which means the air doesn’t move around as much, and with all the buildings, it’s more likely to get super hot. Climate change is another contributor, not only in Paris but all over the world. But whether or not there will be a heatwave depends on many factors, so it’s not something you can always predict. When you visit Paris, be prepared for lovely weather, but remember that sometimes, it might get exceptionally hot.

France has lifted all measures regarding the COVID-19 virus —so wearing a mask is no longer mandatory, and you can enter Paris without the need for a negative test or vaccine. However, it’s crucial to continue practicing safety at all times. This includes social distancing and frequently washing our hands at the least. If you experience COVID-19 symptoms , getting tested is the responsible course of action.

Paris is a real charmer, but as multiple travel advisories recommend, it’s good to be a bit cautious. Keep an eye out for pickpockets and occasional protests, and keep in mind there’s a small chance of terrorist activity, as in any major European capital city.

While COVID-19 restrictions are no longer a concern, common safety practices are always advised. Be on the lookout for potential danger from floods, heatwaves, and winter air pollution. Don’t forget to bring along a portable CO detector to be extra safe.

Whether you’re going solo or with your friends, it’s important to pick safe hotels and stay aware of your surroundings at all times.

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13 Practical Tips for Visiting Paris: How to Avoid Mistakes

Last Updated on Mar 31, 2023

Paris is a great city that can never disappoint. You can keep on visiting Paris  again and again and there is always something fantastic to experience, something to see that you haven’t seen before and eat food you haven’t tried yet.

The overwhelming amount of things on offer can be a real challenge for first-time visitors. That’s why everyone needs some practical tips for visiting Paris in order to avoid mistakes.

Why You Should Listen to Me? I’ve been to Paris on several occasions, stayed in many different areas and studied in Paris as well. Let me tell you: each time was different. Despite spending a decent amount of time in Paris I still haven’t seen everything and I also made a few mistakes on the way.

Now I’m confident to give you the best Paris travel tips that will help you avoid some unpleasant disaster.

Tips for Visiting Paris

1. don’t go to paris just for a weekend.

When someone tells me that they’re going to spend just 3 days in Paris I feel like they’re most likely not going to love it. I mean, it’s possible to have a great time but if you do it right and prioritize what do you want to see. During such a short visit most tourists head to see the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame, Louvre and some other tourist attractions, and therefore experience crowds, long lines and not the real local Paris.

Take your pick and spend some time to actually enjoy these things instead of rushing through everything. I’m not telling you not to see these famous landmarks, but in order to fully feel the Paris vibe, you need to stay in the city way longer.

There are also so many amazing day trips to take from Paris. You can do them on your own by renting a car ( compare car rental prices here ) or book an organized tour. To name a few options:

• Vaux le Vicomte & Fontainebleau Castles  (a great alternative to crowded Versailles)
• Loire Valley Castles
• Mont St-Michel
• Auvers Sur Oise
• and much more…

2. Eiffel Tower Isn’t a Very Glamorous Experience

Almost everyone is dreaming of getting to the top of the Eiffel Tower. But the moment you start approaching the tower you might realize that it’s not very romantic, as it’s surrounded by a ton of visitors and annoying vendors. The place is crowded, and lines take forever no matter when you visit.

It’s hard to find a romantic spot unless you book a dinner on top of the Eiffel Tower . It’s something you do once, as it’s not the best fine dining you’ve ever had, but again – you’re doing it for the experience.

Again, you won’t like the Eiffel Tower if you just stand in the crowds. However, if you climb the stairs behind the Croatian Embassy you may be able to find a quiet spot overlooking the tower. The view is gorgeous and definitely worth it, especially at night when the tower starts blinking!

Similar to the Empire State Building in NYC, going to the top of the tower is overpriced and not as worth it. I mean, you probably want to see a panorama of Paris with the actual Eiffel Tower in it, right?

I recommend you to see the city from up high from the top of the Tour Montparnasse , Arc de Triomphe, or even a carousel in Tuileries, and actually have the Eiffel Tower in your view.

3. Paris Doesn’t Have to Be Expensive

Before going to Paris friends were warning me that the city was going to destroy my wallet and almost every person on any travel forum was telling me the same. But, Paris does not necessarily have to be a city that sucks all the money out of pockets and bank accounts.

Paris isn’t cheap, but it isn’t more expensive than other European cities. In fact, visiting London or Amsterdam will cost you way more money.

You can also benefit from locals’ knowledge who can point you out in the right direction and that includes finding the best deals and how not to get into any tourist traps.

4. Stay in Central Location

I cannot emphasize this more! Pinning down the perfect place to stay depends on budget and location, but quite often the second one is way more important as you think. Paris is divided into 20 neighborhoods or arrondissements and everything is being referred to 12th, 18th, etc.

Before booking your hotel check whether the area is safe and close to the places you want to visit. If you’re in Paris for a very limited time don’t choose a place on the edge of town, as you definitely don’t want to spend hours commuting in order to save a few bucks.

More on Where to Stay in Paris & Arrondissements Map

5. Parisians Eat Dinner Late

Parisians tend to eat dinner around 8 or 9:00 PM. Many good restaurants won’t be open until 7:00ish PM, as they close between lunchtime and dinnertime.

This is especially important if you’re traveling with kids , as they need to be awake to eat dinner basically.

My personal recommendation for a typical Parisian restaurant would be a historic  Polidor Restaurant founded in 1845. The interior of the restaurant is basically unchanged for over 100 years. They have great escargots  and steak tartare if you want to try some French snails and raw beef mixed with spices and an egg.

Woody Allen used  Polidor as one of the locations for his time travel fantasy, Midnight in Paris, so who knows, maybe you’ll meet Zelda Fitzgerald there too. IMPORTANT: This restaurant is a cash-only establishment.

If you’re planning some Michelin star dining keep in mind that places are booked weeks in advance, especially in the summer.

6. Don’t Think That Paris is a City Just for Lovers

While many romantic comedies portray Paris as the city for lovers, with boyfriends proposing in front of the Eiffel Tower and taking girls on romantic walks along the Seine, this image can often be very far away from reality.

Paris is a great place to travel solo, as you can people watch and appreciate everything in a different way you would with your partner.

You can also easily meet people in Paris too as there are many solo travelers in the city and many families as well – my kids have a blast every time they go !

7. Don’t Be Afraid of Using Metro

Metro in Paris is very easy to use. It might be slightly intimidating at first due to the huge amount of different lines, but once you figure it out you’ll use it all the time .

Keep your Paris metro ticket until you’ve exited the metro system at your final destination because the police might be checking your tickets inside the station.

If you’re planning on using the metro you can buy a carnet (pack of 10 tickets) to save some money, though if you plan on staying for longer than a week, you may want to look into the longer-term passes (Navigo Pass).

On many Metro lines, the doors to the train do not open unless you press a button or lift a handle. Remember it if you don’t want to miss your station or look funny.

My tip: While taxis in Paris are expensive, Uber is definitely affordable and I recommend doing it at least once so you can see Parisian streets during your ride. Just don’t try to take it to the airport as it would take longer than the RER train and cost you 5 times as much… on top of getting stuck in traffic for a very long time.

8. Paris Closes Up in August

Parisians are used to taking a whole month off in the summer months, and as a result, the majority of businesses close in August. Tourist attractions are obviously open and very full of people because of the summer, but many local boulangeries , private stores, and restaurants might be closed.

If you’re opting for a mixture of local and tourist experiences, it might not be the right time to visit. Personally, I’m not the biggest fan, as I like to interact with locals anywhere I go.

9. You Don’t Have to Dress Up in Fancy Clothes

Almost every article on tips for traveling to Paris is going to tell you to dress up very fancy. While I love to wear cute dresses on my travels , it’s not a requirement in Paris.

They almost make it seem like you’re going to be judged for wearing a pair of sneakers or casual jeans (by no means I say you should wear sweatpants – we all know people love to do this in the US).

But, I’d say not to overdo it and there’s no need to try to dress like a supermodel if it’s not who you are.

While I might like wearing my high heels all day you might find it uncomfortable and that’s totally all right. Dress in a chic and simple style, so you can enjoy walking around and not worry about your clothes – just like French people do.

10. Catacombs Aren’t Off the Path Attraction

Various guides to Paris tell you to go off the beaten path and visit the Catacombs – home to the remains of over 6 million people with lots of piles of skulls and bones.

I must say to you that whoever wrote all these guides must have never visited the catacombs because they’re far away from being off the tourist track.

While there are many places that tourists barely visit this isn’t one of them. In fact, I tried to visit them 3 times and every time I ended up giving up because the line was so long or the place was closed. 

The place is amazing, but under any circumstances don’t think that you’re going to be only one of a few tourists there. In fact, I highly recommend purchasing skip the line tickets to the catacombs as you’ll be waiting forever otherwise.

11. Dedicate a Whole Day to Versaille & Don’t Go Without a Skip-the-Line Ticket

Versailles, Normandy, Mont Saint Michel, Giverny, or the Loire Valley are only a few incredible places to visit beyond Paris. However, especially if you’re visiting France during the summer the palace can get VERY busy.

Combining two places (for instance Giverny & Versailles) in one day may seem tempting price-wise, it’s not the best idea. You’ll be rushing and running (literally!) through everything and only get frustrated.

I heard many horror stories from people who went to Versailles before it even opened and stood in a line for 2-3h in the sunlight waiting to get it. By the time they got inside, they had to run through the palace to make it back to the bus on time.

Don’t try to do everything and prioritize what do you want to do. I suggest you allow yourself a full day to explore Versailles and purchasing skip the line tickets , its gardens and especially the Petit Trianon. It’s a great place that can’t be missed and you don’t want to be rushed through it.

12. Paris Has More Awesome Museums Than Just Louvre

The Museum Pass isn’t only going to save you money, but also time. You won’t need to stand in the long line to every museum and you could skip the ticket line at both Versailles and the Louvre – the longest lines to wait in.

If you want to include other attractions in your pass you could look up Paris Pass.

Note:  If you’re an EU citizen under 25 you can get to museums around Paris for free. Same if you’re a student.

Speaking of Louvre… if you’re not an art lover and trying to go to Louvre just to see the Mona Lisa: DON’T! Don’t be one of the tourists who go in, takes a photo of the Mona Lisa, and leaves.

The crowds in that room are horrendous and most people aren’t actually even seeing the painting, but just taking selfies with it.

There is a beautiful collection of Dutch 17th-century art (my favorite) that’s almost always completely empty, so you can see it in peace.

Remember that the Louvre is closed on Tuesdays and the Musée d’Orsay is closed on Mondays. These museums normally close at 6 PM, but a few times a week they’re open until 10 PM.

Not many people know about it, so it’s way more peaceful to explore. Louvre does it on Wednesdays and Fridays, while d’Orsay does it on Thursdays.

Best Museums in Paris to Visit:

The  Centre Pompidou  – If you’re into modern art.

Musée Rodin  – Beautiful sculpture gardens, so do it during a sunny day.

Musée de la Magie  (Museum of Magic) – Off the path unusual exhibitions.

Musée d’Histoire de la Médecine  (Museum of the History of Medicine) – A museum I enjoyed a lot.

Chateau d’Auvers-sur-Oise  – Right outside of Paris, the best interactive museum I’ve ever visited. If you want to feel like a real impressionist, do make a trip there.

13. Don’t Visit Paris Without Travel Insurance

A lot of people think travel insurance is an unnecessary expense. While in places like Southeast Asia it’s cheap to pay for things out of pocket, this isn’t the case in Europe.

Travel insurance will refund your medical costs and will get you home for free in you injure yourself. 

The easiest and most reliable travel insurance is  Safety Wing . Get it before your trip to avoid unnecessary troubles that might ruin your holidays!

Best Travel Movies about Paris:

• Midnight in Paris (directed by Woody Allen)
• Amelie (directed by Jean-Pierre Jeunet)
• 2 Days in Paris (directed by Julie Delpy)
• An American in Paris (directed by Vincente Minnelli)
• Three Colors: Blue (directed by Krzysztof Kieslowski)
• Marie Antoinette (directed by Sofia Coppola)

Best Travel Books about Paris:

• The Hunchback of Notre Dame (by Victor Hugo) also a Disney movie
• Bel-Ami (by Guy de Monpassant) also a motion picture starring Robert Pattinson & Uma Thurman
• Sarah’s Key (by Tatiana de Rosnay) – also a motion picture starring Kristen Scott-Thomas  (my favorite one!)
• Marie Antoinette (by Antonia Fraser)
• Les Miserables (by Victor Hugo)
• The Dud Avocado (by Elaine Dundy)

Paris is one of the greatest cities on earth. If you follow my tips for visiting Paris and do it the right way, you should have a great experience. You will make you want to come back for more!

READ MORE ABOUT PARIS:

Where to Stay in Paris

Day Trip to Mont St Michel from Paris

Day Trip to Loire Valley Castles from Paris

Day Trip to Vaux le Vicomte Castle from Paris

Day Trip to Giverny from Paris

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Anna Karsten is a travel blogger, journalist and psoriasis advocate. She has been traveling the world for the last 15 years - visiting over 100 countries and living on 5 continents. Anna has been featured in The New York Times, The Daily Mail, Forbes and more.

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51 Comments

Great advice! And who knew they had Uber over there?? That’s awesome.

That’s my extra tip for visiting Paris: if metro takes too long just take Uber 🙂

We went to the Catacombs an hour before they closed and walked right in. Plus, there were only about 10-15 other people there. If you time it right and go if the off season (we visited in October) it can be done without the experience you had!

For sure! Would you say it’s off the beaten path though? I’d say it’s still quite a popular attraction comparing to, for instance, the Museum of Magic or Pet Cemetery. I think places off the beaten path are those that you can’t find on every tourist website.

100% agree that it’s NOT off the beaten path! It’s worth a stop but, like you said, there are real “off the beaten path” places in Paris that are just as interesting.

I wanted to add that the Catacombs are very much on the beaten path *however* we were recently and twice able to book skip the line tickets online just 1 or 2 days before, and then we had no wait and no fuss at all. Recommended!

Lots of good points. My daughter actually managed an enjoyable visit to Paris in under 48 hours. We just made choices that didn’t keep us in lineups for unreasonable lengths of time. Skipped the Louvre, Did a boat cruise that gave us a fabulous water view of Notre Dame. We did go up the tower (evening, off-season, lineups not too bad), but were prepared to skip that if it didn’t work out. We researched ahead of time and picked 2 museums to top our list. Used Metro, stayed in a well-located hostel, explored whatever was near our hostel and metro stops. Well worthwhile.

That sounds like a nice trip Marilyn. A lot of people are trying to do too much and later told me it wasn’t the best trip – which is sad because Paris is amazing! Which museums did you visit?

Musee d’Orsay and Musee Rodin. We had previously seen a Rodin exhibit at an art gallery in Canada, so made the most of a just-before-closing visit because we knew what we were looking for and what we were seeing. Also loved seeing the grounds, which stayed open a bit later.

These are all fantastic tips! I agree that if you only stick to the main tourist spots, you haven’t really seen Paris. I’ve been twice now and enjoyed it much more on my second visit which I spent mostly wandering without a purpose. I found some amazing spots that way.

Also, I totally agree about the metro being soooo easy. I was coming from Florence where I was living at the time and the trains in Italy are absolutely terrible.

That’s such a coincidence! I also came to study in Paris (in 2012) from Florence where I was living for a while 😀

Paris is too lovely to visit and your post really give great tips for us who wanna travel there. If i go there the things that i should do is to taking selfie in front of Eiffel or in the Louvre. But i will love to visit the catacomb for sure,,it must be kinda creepy

I absolutely loved this post! I’m solo travelling across Europe this summer and I’ve never been more excited/ nervous for anything in my life.

That’s awesome! I hope you’re enjoying your trip!

This post is absolutely full of good ideas! I had to laugh when I read “the Eiffel tower might be the most disappointing spot in Paris.” It is certaintly not a place to go if you don’t like crowds, and I agree with you, don’t you want the tower in your pictures? Great suggestions on where to get a better view!

Glad you liked the post 🙂 There’s just so much to see in Paris apart from the Eiffel Tower…

I’ll give the Croatian Embassy a try this time but my absolute favorite way to show first time visitors the Eiffel Tower is Metro to Trocadero, follow the signs and voilà. Granted it can be crowded but it’s a great way to get an unobstructed view and take it in against the backdrop of Champ de Mars

This are great tips! What is your recommendation between getting Travel Insurance or stick with the one you get on the credit card?

I’d say it all depends of your credit card. If your credit card provider offers you a reliable travel insurance, then I guess you won’t need an extra one. I don’t have a credit card insurance 😉

I loved your tips… they are right in line with what I’ve read in Condé Nast and Fodor. We are going in Jan 2018. We would like to take the train to the south of France. Do you have any tips for doing an Airbnb vs a hotel?

You can find some gorgeous AirBnBs in Paris for sure. But then the check in and check out process couldn’t (not always though) give you as much freedom as you’d have at a hotel.

Great tips we will be traveling in June 2018, I just realized we need to buy a adaptor for charging cell phones the plugs in South Africa is different. Just want to know I was informed no one speak English in Paris is this true?

Well, these days they do, but they prefer not to.

that was a great blog with full of information, thanks a lot for so much help

Hi Anna, I enjoyed reading your tips and responses. My husband and I are in the process of spending 4 full days in Paris in June 2019. We will be traveling (from the U.S.) with another couple who wants to have dinner at the Eiffel Tower. What are your thoughts? In addition we will be visiting and staying in Normandy for 3 nights. What is the best way to travel there and back to Paris where we will stay another 2 nights? Thanks you. Adrienne

Hi Adrienne,

I can’t vouch for the first-hand experience at the Eiffel Tower, as I’ve never done it because the food is just all right for the price, but a lot of people love the experience. The dining takes place on the first floor, so not very high (57 meters up from the ground). If you do decide to go, make sure that you book a ‘Window table guaranteed’, as otherwise you might have a table in the middle or overlooking the inside of the Tower.

When I went to Normandy I used a private shuttle. You could rent a car or take a train, but by car, you can also stop in some cute villages on the way. From Paris, you have two train options: TGV or Train à Grande Vitesse. – If you’re heading to beaches, Caen or Bayeux will be your final destination stop. – If you want to go to Mont St-Michel first, then Paris to Rennes which is 55km south of Mont St. Michel for $70 or €56 (takes 2 hours). Upon arrival, there are buses (Keolis Emeraude) that depart four times daily (timed with the arrival of the train). Paris to Pontorson is also an option, which is 9km away. From there you can take bus #15 to Saint Michel from the station.

Wow!! So much great information, thanks Anna! Do you know any apps that might be helpful? I’ll be in Paris for 10 days and wanted to see if there were any apps that you recommended. La fourchette and Heetch are two I’ve downloaded so far.

Musee Jacqumart Andre Musee de Luxembourg

Hi Anna, First of all, I want to thank you for the experiences told to everybody about my country. This post is reassuring on trips to paris ans some remarks made me laugh ! I am a french woman and actually, as I start a travel blog focused on France, I’m trying to get into the world of blogging. But it is not easy… Your blog is wonderfull and I hope mine will be as beautiful as yours !

Hi Karine I am a French woman as well and I’m starting a company dedicated to French tourism. I’ve organized many private visits in France for my American and Spanish friends and would like to share this experience. My husband participates to French wine blind tasting championships and easily organizes initiation and visits. Can we get in touch to discuss this. Anyone interested it would be a pleasure to help for your visit in France. Céline

Paris is a really awesome and beautiful country. I love Paris. I am a traveler and I am lot’s of destinations are roamed but Paris has not gone yet. I am trying to next year and I use your tips for visiting Paris. I like your blog. Thanks for sharing useful tips.

This is a great guide and totally agree! Going back to Paris in July to visit a friend and taking my husband who’s never been. Definitely keeping these in mind and you’re right about the Mona Lisa… it was the most underwhelming art piece I’ve ever seen, especially when you have to battle the crowds to see it. I’m interested in checking out the other museums you listed, and I also loved Musée de l’Orangerie as well!

I’ve visited Paris so many times, but it still very interesting to read what others have seen and experienced. Myself, I would recomment to visit Montmartre which is a very nice neighbourhood in Paris. At “Place du Tertre” (square at Montmartre) you will find many paint artists and many restaurants. On hot a summerday it’s also nice to have a drink in the park named “Jardin du Luxembourg”. For the best city-view you should go on top of “Tour Montparnasse” (next to Gare Montparnasse). It will give you a superb view on the Eiffel Tower.

Nice information, very helpful… Curious about the Seine River dinner cruises, recommend? I had pre reserved a trip on one highly recommended “by Parisians” (supposedly) can’t think of the name of the company. Seems costly. Question is, is the dinner worth it, because you can take an evening cruise without a dinner. And second…I’m looking at us staying in the 6th arrondissement, I believe that’s the St. Germaine area? for four nights, a very nice hotel by all reviews, ratings, and reputation. Do you like that choice of area? We first had booked in the 7th, but it seems rather boring..for lack of another descriotion at the moment. Thanks.

I’d personally advise against going on the day non-dinner Seine cruises as they feel slightly like HOHO buses full of screaming group tours. Plus, since the river is quite low you can’t see that much from the boat, but like the roof of Musee d’Orsay etc. For the evening dinner cruises the atmosphere is different and can be fun! I can’t vouch for the food on the tour you’ve prebooked since each boat might have different menus.

Have you seen my other post in which I explain arrondissements? https://annaeverywhere.com/where-to-stay-in-paris-arrondissements/

Very nice article! I love reading all these tips 🙂

I really love your article. I would definitely come back to this article the day I make final plan to go to Paris

Everyone remembers their first trip to Paris. The perfectly manicured streets, the Haussmannian architecture, the indulgent smell of pâtisseries.

Hi, Anna, I have really enjoyed reading this post and others on your site. You have some wonderful tips, and I think they will be very helpful. I will be traveling in July to Paris from the US with my two daughters. One is a fine arts/photography major in college and the other is taking French in high school. They are both very excited to go on this trip. I am trying to plan our trip so that we can enjoy and not be overwhelmed with trying to do everything, and your post has been very helpful. I also enjoyed reading about Vaux le Vicomte and Fontainebleu as an alternative to the Versailles tour.

Although the Mona Lisa would not be our sole reason for visiting the Louvre, my daughter has studied the painting in two art history classes and is hopeful that she can see it. As she says, there are many anomalies with the painting that make it a fascinating study for an art student. We are not fans of being caught in big crowds and certainly want to see other art while we are there. It sounds as if visiting in the evening might make this more possible? No matter what, thank you for your helpful tips!

I’m afraid Mona Lisa will be crowded as early and as late as the Louvre opens. But, in some sections like my favorite Dutch and Flemish art quite often you can be all alone with the art (apart from Rubens’ room because there are always students there). You could try visiting in the very late evening when the Louvre is open until 10pm on Wed and Fri – it gets less crowded from around 6pm.

Hey – nice post. I lived in Zurich for many years and visited Paris several times, but have only just learned to appreciate it. I truly believe in “slow traveling;” that it’s better to immerse yourself in an area than to rush around and see everything. I would really appreciate more restaurant tips – especially little hole-in-the wall spots that have good, local (hopefully inexpensive) food.

Just a couple suggestions for others from our trips (last one July 2017): Holiday Inn (Yes! Holiday Inn) Notre Dame is a great location, steps away from ND, Louvre, & Latin Quarter, not overly priced, & you can even use club points & get it for free! It also has an amazing rooftop bar/restaurant that it very trendy for the locals and has a straight shot view of the Eiffel Tower & it’s nightly light show. We found food in the Latin Quarter excellent, large portions, and reasonably priced (much cheaper than the expensive places on the boulevards around the corner); not to mention the interesting atmosphere.

The one exception I have to your notes, Anna, is the Vaux le Vicomte. With their feature summer Saturday night candle lit walk and fireworks, I thought this would be a nice surprise for my wife. It turned out to be a mini-disaster: The train was fairly long (& pricey) and then our pre-paid shutle bus never showed up (mechanical failures…); after an hour, we were lucky enough to hail the ONE UBER in the area => there were some stranded Italians there, too, so the six of us piled into a four seater! (to their credit, Vaux refunded our busfare). While the Chateau was interesting – and has a fascinating history, being the pattern for Versailes – it is not well cared for. The Gardens were overgrown or dying; even the paths around the Chateau & gardens were ungroomed, – more like gravel and rocky roads – and it was easy to lose your footing. This was pretty disappointing since the website shows spectacular views. There are only early guided tours (so if you are there for the evening show, none) and only one tour in English a day, anyway; although the free self-guided tour is good. The Chateau itself is not air-conditioned and – in July – very stuffy and there are no ushers to answer questions. It does have snack bars & food, but most of the seating is outdoors, so in July, pretty hot (OK, it was record heat!). Also you really need to watch your schedule, since bus back to the train station (for Paris) are limited. The last bus supposedly just goes back to Paris, but I really didn’t trust it, so we took the train.

All that said, I kind of enjoyed being at the Chateau, out in the countryside without crowds, but for some who are not used to a little inconvenience (like my wife….ahem), this might not be your best choice.

Two great museums that I particularly love:

Musee Guimet – Asian art, including a wonderful collection of art from Angkor Wat. Well displayed and remarkably free of tourists on the two days I visited.

Musee de Cluny – museum of mediaeval art, in the old townhouse of the Abbot of Cluny. You can visit the old Roman baths in the cellar, too.

And in the Louvre, as you say, there’s a lot more than Mona Lisa. I enjoyed the Islamic arts gallery, with some fascinating exhibits including beautiful tiles from Turkey and a pair of ancient painted doors from Egypt. Warning: don’t try to “do” the Louvre in less the week. I still haven’t seen 60% of it and I’ve visited a few times!

Great tips!. I will comment on the taxi part, it will be better to avoid using taxi to see the city, besides being expensive, there is so much traffic in the city that you will probably loose some valuable time especially if your visit is short!.

When we do citybreaks be tend to do a LOT of walking and don’t use public transport all that much. So for us, Paris’ Metro Carnet (book of 10 tickets) is perfect. Two great things about them:

1: They don’t expire so any leftover tickets can be kept & used for the next time you visit Paris. 2: They’re 10 individual tickets so you can hand tickets to friends who’re travelling with you and you both benefit from the cheaper price per ticket.

Thanks for all the wonderful tips on Paris! I will be going my first time in Septemeber and excited. I was not aware that the museum pass lets you skip the line for the Louvre Museum. That is good to know! I will be limited on time, so it was very useful.

Thanks, Andra

Amazing guide thankyou. I am planning to visit Paris early next year and I am bookmarking this article for my future reference.

Paris is wonderful, just try to avoid Hotel Westminster. I booked their Deluxe 25m room and received 11,8m room (N. 114) with dirty bathroom instead. France….In any other country this would be unimaginable, but at Hotel Westminster Paris it is a norm. Bait and switch without apologies or price reduction for much cheaper room. You have been warned dear travelers.

Amazing guide, thank you. I plan to visit Paris next year, thank you for the advices!

Thank you for sharing this amazing content, I really appreciate your effort.

Thanks so much for the information. We’re going this summer.

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Exercise a high degree of caution in France due to the threat of terrorism.

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Advice levels

Exercise a high degree of caution in France.

Exercise a high degree of caution in France due to the threat of terrorism

• France's national terrorist alert warning (in French) is at the highest level. Expect high-levels of security nationwide, including at schools, places of worship, shopping centres and landmarks. Be cautious around locations known to be targets. Attacks could be indiscriminate and could occur anywhere without warning. There have been several attacks in France in recent years.
• Terrorists could target events and locations in the lead up to, during, and after the Olympic and Paralympic Games , including events associated with the Torch Relays, LGBTQIA+ community, music and cultural events, festivals, tourist areas, shopping areas, transport hubs, sporting events and other public areas.
• Serious crime can occur especially in large cities, including Paris. These include violent robberies, muggings and assaults, including sexual assault (see Safety - Crime).
• Crime such as theft, including passport theft, pickpocketing, bag snatching, burglaries and muggings are common, particularly in summer. Groups of thieves also operate on public transport, including busy metro lines and trains to/from the airports. Take care to protect your belongings on public transport, in crowded tourist areas and at landmarks. 
• Strikes are frequent across France. When they occur, expect demonstrations and significant disruptions, which usually affect public transport and other public services. Some result in clashes with police, resulting in the use of tear gas and arrests. Avoid demonstrations and areas with significant police activity.

Full travel advice: Safety

• Get comprehensive travel insurance before you leave. There are no reciprocal healthcare agreements between France and Australia.
• The standard of medical care is high.

Full travel advice: Health

• Always carry a photo ID, such as your passport. Police conduct random checks, particularly at borders.
• You must stop to help if you witness an accident or someone asks for help. Report all accidents to emergency services. If you fail to help,  you could be charged  unless assisting will risk your or others' safety.
• Covering your face in public places or forcing someone else to is illegal.
• Be careful when taking photos. It's illegal to photograph security forces, including the police.

Full travel advice: Local laws

• France will host the Paralympic Games between 28 August - 8 September. Travel delays are likely during this period.
• France is part of the  Schengen area , meaning you can enter without a visa in some cases. In other situations, you'll need a visa. Contact the nearest embassy or consulate of France for the latest entry and exit conditions.
• The  France-Visas website  can help determine if you need a visa to enter or transit France. 

The currency in France is the Euro.

Full travel advice: Travel

Local contacts

• The  Consular Services Charter  details what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.
• For consular help, contact the  Australian Embassy in Paris .
• To stay up to date with local information, follow the embassy's social media accounts.

Full travel advice: Local contacts

Full advice

France raised its  national terror alert warning to the highest level in March. Expect high-level security measures to be in place throughout the country, including schools, places of worship, shopping centres and landmarks. Be aware of your surroundings, monitor local media, and follow the advice of local authorities. 

Terrorists could be planning to target events and locations in the lead-up to, during, and after the Olympic and Paralympic Games, including events associated with Torch Relays, LGBTQIA+ community, music and cultural events, festivals, tourist areas, shopping areas, transport hubs, sporting events and other public areas.

Attacks can occur at any time. Methods of attack have included knife attacks, shootings, bombings, and vehicle attacks.

There have been several attacks in France in recent years, including in:

• places of worship
• shopping areas
• tourist sites
• transportation hubs
• other major events which attract large crowds

Be cautious around locations known to be possible terrorist targets.

Authorities have additional powers to deal with counter-terrorism security. In some public areas, they may:

• restrict access
• search your bags and vehicle

Expect increased security checks at borders, including ID checks, which may cause delays.

To reduce your risks:

• be alert to possible threats, especially in public places
• report anything suspicious to the police
• monitor the news for any new threats
• take official warnings seriously
• follow the instructions of local authorities

In the event of an attack, leave the area as soon as it's safe to do so.

The French Government has published advice about  how to respond to a terrorist attack .

Follow these Twitter accounts for advice (in French) during major security incidents:

• @Gendarmerie
• @PoliceNationale
• @prefpolice

Terrorism is a threat worldwide.

More information:

Civil unrest and political tension

Strikes are frequent across France. When they occur, expect  demonstrations  and significant disruptions, which usually affect public transport and other public services.

Some lead to clashes with police, resulting in the use of tear gas and arrests. Avoid demonstrations and areas with significant police activity. 

To reduce risks:

• avoid protests and demonstrations, and exercise caution if you're caught up in large gatherings/protests
• remain vigilant, especially at night
• monitor local media and other sources for news on possible unrest
• follow the advice of local authorities
• Demonstrations and civil unrest
• SNCF Trains  
• Paris Metro and Buses

Serious crime can occur especially in large cities, including Paris. These include violent robberies, muggings and assaults, including sexual assault. For further information, see Smartraveller information on when you're a victim of a crime overseas , travel risk relating to sexual assault and on the assistance to victims of sexual assault overseas.  

Crimes such as passport theft, pickpocketing, burglaries and bag and phone snatching are common in summer. Groups of thieves also operate on public transport, including busy metro lines that service tourist attractions and trains to/from the airports. 

Take care to protect your belongings on public transport, in crowded tourist areas and at landmarks. Some examples of common targets include (but are not limited to):

• Airports (including Charles de Gaulle International Airport)
• Hotel lobbies
• Outside of hotels and well-known short-stay accommodations
• Restaurants and cafes, especially when sitting on the terrace.

Criminals use children to distract tourists or even play an active role in theft.

Violent theft is less common but may also occur on public transport or around major tourist attractions. These attacks have occurred on or around:

• Gare du Nord train station
• The train from CDG Airport to Gare du Nord train station.
• Metro lines in Paris, including lines 1, 2 and 6
• RER (regional) train lines linking Paris and its suburbs
• major tourist attractions (including, but not limited to, the Eiffel Tower area, the Champs-Elysées, the Louvre, the Palais Royal areas, the Les Halles district, and the Latin Quarter)

To protect yourself from theft:

• avoid walking in quiet and poorly lit streets, especially at night
• keep luggage and valuables out of sight
• use ATMs in secure locations such as banks and shopping centres
• keep your ATM and credit cards in your sight
• monitor local sources for information about possible safety or security risks

Vehicle break-ins

Vehicle crime includes bag snatching from cars (including while driving, stopped or stuck in traffic), including on the highway between CDG Airport and Paris city centre, and theft and break-ins from unattended vehicles. Rental vehicles are often targets, even in small towns.

To protect yourself:

• never leave valuables in your car
• keep bags and luggage concealed and/or stored in the boot
• keep your vehicle locked at all times, including when driving
• use secure parking facilities, especially overnight
• be alert at isolated automated service stations
• beware of any person who waves at you to stop on the highway
• avoid sleeping in rest areas beside autoroutes (motorways) and major roads
• avoid sleeping in makeshift or unauthorised campgrounds on the outskirts of cities

Domestic Violence

French authorities have introduced emergency phone numbers for victims of domestic violence. In an emergency, call the police (dial 17) or a 24/7  specialised hotline  (dial 3919) to call for help.

Scams and fraud

Credit card and ATM fraud involving 'skimming' machines that can store card data can occur. Automated service stations and tourist areas are often targets for this.

Be wary of strangers who invite you for a free drink or show at a private club. Foreigners have had large amounts of money stolen from their credit cards before being allowed to leave.

Be cautious when booking travel. Use reputable travel providers only. Avoid giving your personal details to unknown sources. There have been reports of identity theft through accommodation scams.

Avoid common scams around tourist areas. These are often groups of petty criminals targeting foreigners and tourists.

Cyber security  

You may be at risk of cyber-based threats during overseas travel to any country. Digital identity theft is a growing concern. Your devices and personal data can be compromised, especially if you're connecting to Wi-Fi, using or connecting to shared or public computers, or Bluetooth. 

Social media can also be risky in destinations where there are social or political tensions or laws that may seem unreasonable by Australian standards. Travellers have been arrested for things they have said on social media. Don't comment on local or political events on your social media. 

More information:  

• Cyber security when travelling overseas  

Swimming safety

The beaches along the French Atlantic coast can be dangerous, especially on the south-western coast. Several people drown every year.

Swim at supervised beaches and follow the  colour-coded flags  that warn against dangerous swimming conditions.

If in doubt, seek local advice.

Climate and natural disasters

France experiences  natural disasters  and  severe weather , including:

• forest fires

If you're in an area affected by a natural disaster or severe weather:

• keep in touch with friends and family
• monitor local media

Avalanches and mudslides

Avalanches and mudslides can happen in some mountain areas. Several people have died in recent years.

If you're skiing or mountaineering:

• monitor advice on weather and safety conditions
• don't move off marked slopes or trails

In some areas, authorities may arrest or prosecute you if you ski or mountaineer off marked trails.

Forest fires

Forest and grass fires often occur during the summer months. You can track active fires on the EU's  European Forest Fire Information System .

The French government also provides a forest fire tracker on  Météo des forêts  (in French).

Flash flooding can make road travel extremely difficult. People have lost their lives due to flooding.

Disruptions to communication infrastructure may occur.

• Floods and fires

Travel insurance

Get comprehensive  travel insurance  before you leave. There's no reciprocal healthcare agreement between France and Australia.

Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation. The Australian Government won't pay for these costs.

If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are.

If you're not insured, you may have to pay thousands of dollars up-front for medical care.

• what activities and care your policy covers
• that your insurance covers you for the whole time you'll be away

Physical and mental health

Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition. 

See your doctor or travel clinic to:

• have a basic health check-up
• ask if your travel plans may affect your health
• plan any vaccinations you need

Do this at least 8 weeks before you leave.

If you have immediate concerns for your welfare or the welfare of another Australian, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your  nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate  to discuss counselling hotlines and services available in your location .

• General health advice
• Healthy holiday tips  (Healthdirect Australia)

Medications

Not all medications available over the counter or by prescription in Australia are available in other countries. Some may even be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.

If you plan to bring medication, check if it's legal in France. Take enough legal medication for your trip.

Carry a copy of your prescription or a letter from your doctor stating:

• what the medication is 
• your required dosage 
• that it's for personal use 
• Consulate-General of France in Sydney

Health risks

Insect-borne diseases.

Although uncommon, the  West Nile virus (WNV)  has occurred in France. There's no vaccine for it.

To reduce your risk of disease:

• make sure your accommodation is insect-proof
• use insect repellent
• wear long, loose, light-coloured clothing

Measles cases can routinely occur in France, with the country currently experiencing increased measles activity. Make sure your vaccinations are up-to-date before you travel.

• Infectious diseases

Medical care

The standard of medical facilities is similar to Australia.

Before they treat you, hospitals usually need the following:

• a guarantee of payment
• a copy of your medical insurance
• an up-front deposit

Costs for public hospital stays can reach thousands of dollars, depending on the treatment you need.

You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that may appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling.

If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our  Consular Services Charter . But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.

Penalties for drug offences are severe. If you're convicted, you can get a long jail sentence.

• Carrying or using drugs

You must always carry a photo ID, such as your passport or driver's licence. Police conduct random checks, particularly at borders.

It's  illegal not to offer help to a person in danger . Authorities may charge you if you:

• don't stop after you witness a motor accident
• don't report an accident to emergency services
• ignore pleas for help or urgent assistance

Any assistance shouldn't put you or anyone else in danger. For example, if there's a fire, you're not expected to leap into the flames to save someone. Notifying authorities (dial 112) would be sufficient.

Penalties for not assisting can carry a fine of up to 100,000 euros and up to 7 years imprisonment. Tourists aren't exempt.

Forcing someone to hide their face is a crime in France. It's punishable by a year in prison and a fine of up to 30,000 euros. The sentence doubles if the person forced to hide their face is a minor. 

It's illegal to photograph security forces, including the police. Penalties may include authorities detaining you and taking your film or camera.

Flying drones is prohibited in Paris. Prohibitions also exist in other locations in France. Check with local authorities

Australian laws

Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you're overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.

Staying within the law and respecting customs

Dual nationality

France recognises dual nationality.

Australians should use their Australian passport when exiting or entering Australia. This includes dual nationals.

If you're a dual national and have a passport from another country, you may choose to travel on your other passport once outside Australia.

• Dual nationals
• Travel document requirements

Visas and border measures

Every country or territory decides who can enter or leave through its borders. For specific information about the evidence you'll need to enter a foreign destination, check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination you're entering. 

France is part of the  Schengen area , meaning you can enter France without a visa in some cases. In other situations, you'll need a visa.

France Diplomacy provides a  comprehensive FAQ  for foreigners wishing to visit France and an  online tool  to assess what visa you need. 

Make sure you:

• Apply for your visa in Australia if you need one. You can't apply for a visa or change your status once you're in French territory. For example, you can't change from a tourist visa to a student or resident visa while in France.
• carry your passport when you cross borders, including within the  Schengen area
• check border conditions with local sources and transport providers

You may still need a visa to transit. 

Other formalities

Unaccompanied minors (under 18 years of age) who normally live in France and want to leave French territory need:

• their own identity document
• a copy of a parent or guardian's identification
• a completed form issued by the French Ministry of Interior

More information

• French Ministry of the Interior (French) .

2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games

France will host the 2024 Paralympic Games. Paralympic event sites are spread throughout Paris and surrounding regions, as well as other host cities. Security perimeters around event sites will restrict car access. Some events will also happen on public roads and will likely affect public transport, traffic, parking and road access.

The following cities will host events:

• Chateauroux

Armed security will be patrolling in and around event sites, including sniffer dogs and mounted patrols. They may stop you for random bag searches. Always carry a photo ID.

• Paris 2024 Olympics

Some airlines won't let you board, and some countries won't let you enter unless your passport is valid for 6 months after you plan to leave that country. This can apply even if you're just transiting or stopping over.

Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.

You can end up stranded if your passport is not valid for more than 6 months. Check your passport's expiry date before you travel.

The Australian Government does not set these rules. If you're not sure it'll be valid long enough, consider getting  a new passport .

Lost or stolen passport

Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.

Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.

If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible:

• In Australia, contact the  Australian Passport Information Service .
• If you're overseas, contact the nearest  Australian embassy or consulate .

Also, go to the nearest Commissariat de Police (police station) to:

• report the crime
• get a declaration of theft

Doing this could assist any insurance claims.

Passport with 'X' gender identifier 

Although Australian passports comply with international standards for sex and gender, we can't guarantee that a passport showing 'X' in the sex field will be accepted for entry or transit by another country. Contact the nearest  embassy, high commission or consulate of your destination  before you arrive at the border to confirm if authorities will accept passports with 'X' gender markers. 

More information:   

• LGBTI travellers  

France is a member of the European Union (EU). If you travel between France and any non-EU country, you must declare over 10,000 euros (or equivalent) cash. This covers all forms of currency, not only cash.

If you don't declare or give the wrong information on entry or exit, you'll need to pay a fine.

You don't need to declare cash if you're travelling to or from another EU country.

Local travel

If you plan to travel to France to commemorate Anzac Day, understand the risks and plan ahead. Read our ' Travel overseas for Anzac Day'  page for further information on attending the event.

Driving permit

You'll need a valid Australian driver's licence to drive in France.

Car rental companies may also need an International Driving Permit (IDP). Get your IDP before you leave Australia. You cannot apply for this while overseas.

If you live in France, you can swap your Australian driver's licence for a French licence. You must do this within your first 12 months.

• Driving or riding

Road travel

Unless otherwise signposted, drivers must give way to vehicles approaching from:

• the right at intersections

This is the 'priority of the right' system. Understand this system so you avoid road accidents.

Be cautious when you drive or travel as a passenger. Keep your doors locked, even when moving. Lock your vehicle when you leave it.

The speed limit in most city centres is 30km/hr. 

There are penalties for breaking traffic rules. These may include:

• immediate loss of your licence and vehicle
• on-the-spot fines

All vehicles must carry a reflective vest and warning triangle for use during a breakdown.

The minimum driving age is 18 years.

Motorcycles

Check if your insurance policy covers you when using a motorbike, quad bike or similar vehicle.

Always wear a helmet.

Only use licensed official metered taxis. Licensed taxis have the sign 'Taxi Parisien' on the top of the car in Paris.

Assaults  and robberies have happened in unlicensed taxis. These taxis often target high-traffic destinations such as:

• train stations

Private car companies are legal, but you need to pre-book them.

Public transport

SNCF, the operator of fast train services within France, has reported widespread disruptions to their rail network. Disruptions, including the cancellation of many services, are expected to extend through the weekend. If travelling this weekend, consult the SNCF website for updates and consider delaying travel or seeking alternative means of transport. These disruptions may also impact other services, including international trains such as the Eurostar. Consult with your travel provider to understand any impact on your travel plans.

Organised strikes happen often. These may affect transport systems, including trains and airline traffic. Monitor the media and contact your travel provider for the latest details. See  Safety

If you use public transport, keep your ticket until you exit the system. Inspectors conduct random checks. You'll get an on-the-spot fine if you don't have a valid ticket.

Maintenance work on public transport is often carried out over the summer months, which requires metro lines to be shut down. In Paris, check the  RATP site .

• Transport and getting around safely

DFAT doesn't provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.

Check  France's air safety profile  with the Aviation Safety Network.

Emergencies

Depending on what you need, contact your:

• family and friends
• travel agent
• insurance provider

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

Call 3919 for victims of domestic violence.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

Consular contacts

Read the Consular Services Charter for what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.

For consular help, contact the Australian Embassy in France.

Australian Embassy, France

4 Rue Jean Rey,

75015 Paris, France

Phone: (+33 1) 4059 3300

E-mail: [email protected]

Website: france.embassy.gov.au

Facebook:  L'Australie en France

X: AusAmbFR

Check the Embassy website for details about opening hours and any temporary closures.

Visitors must pass a security screening. Don't bring luggage with you.

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

• +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
• 1300 555 135 in Australia

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Safety and security

There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.

UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on  staying safe abroad  and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out  how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad .

Terrorism in France 

Terrorists are very likely to try to carry out attacks in France in the near future.

Terrorism attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places visited by tourists and foreign nationals such as:

• shopping centres
• entertainment establishments and nightlife venues
• sporting and cultural events
• public transport and national and international transport hubs
• places of worship
• crowded places and public gatherings

Methods of attack have included knife attacks, shootings, bombings and vehicle attacks. Be vigilant in public places and follow the advice of local French authorities.

There have been several recent high-profile terrorist attacks in France, including: 

• in 2023, one person was killed in a knife and hammer attack in central Paris
• in 2023, a teacher was killed in a knife attack in a school in Arras

French authorities regularly report that they have disrupted planned attacks and made arrests.

Industrial action and demonstrations 

There can be frequent industrial action across France. This can lead to disruption and delays on roads and public transport. If you’re due to travel to or within France, monitor the media, check your operator’s advice and follow the advice of the authorities. 

Protecting your belongings

Take sensible precautions against street crime and car crime. Pickpockets can work in gangs; one distracts you while the other one goes into your bag.

Thieves and pickpockets operate on the Paris Métro, on RER (train) lines and at mainline stations. To reduce the risk of theft:

• keep your passport, credit cards and other valuables in separate bags or pockets
• use the inside compartments in bags where possible
• carry your bag across your body rather than on your shoulder
• keep your belongings close to you in restaurants and bars
• do not leave any valuables in your vehicle
• do not get distracted around tourist attractions and ATMs

There have been several cases of serious assault on the RER line B, which serves:

• Paris Charles de Gaulle airport
• Orly Airport
• Paris Gare du Nord Eurostar terminus

There have also been serious assaults on RER line D, which serves the Stade de France.

Drink spiking and sexual assault

Be alert to the possible use of ‘date rape’ and other drugs including GHB and liquid ecstasy.

Buy your own drinks and always keep them in sight to avoid them being spiked. Alcohol and drugs can reduce your vigilance, making you less in control. If you drink, know your limit. Drinks served in bars in France are often stronger than those in the UK.

Laws and cultural differences

Personal id.

You must be able to  prove your identity  by providing documents when asked or within 4 hours at a police station. Accepted IDs are:

• photocard driving licence
• other documentation provided by a government body

Face-covering ban

Covering your face in public places in France is illegal. This includes balaclavas, full veils or any other garment or mask that is used to hide the face. You could get a fine of up to 150 euros if you do not comply.

Forcing someone to hide their face is also a crime and is punishable by a year’s imprisonment and a fine of up to 30,000 euros. If the person forced to hide their face is under 18 years old, the sentence is doubled. This law applies to tourists.

Outdoor activities and adventure tourism

Swimming safety.

Local sea conditions can be dangerous even for strong swimmers. Most beaches have lifeguards and flag warning systems. Make sure you understand the warning system before swimming and always follow the advice closely. See water safety on holiday from the Royal Life Saving Society.

Some beaches have strong undercurrents, especially along the Atlantic coast. There is a risk of riptides (‘baïnes’) in some areas, particularly around the coast of Gironde and Landes. 

Follow local advice if there are jellyfish in the sea.  

Watersports

Before taking part in water-based activities, find out how you and your friends or family will be supervised and supported.

See ⁠ watersports safety advice from the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (ROSPA).

Trekking and mountaineering

Check weather forecasts and conditions and make sure you’re properly prepared. Do not undertake any activity alone and consider hiring a guide for expert advice. Always leave copies of your itinerary with someone.

In mountainous areas, make sure your insurance covers you for extra costs such as mountain rescue service and helicopter evacuation. In the départements of Savoie and Haute-Savoie, you may need to be transferred to Switzerland for treatment.

Winter sports

Read advice on how to  prepare for winter sports . Check current weather forecasts and avalanche risks  on the Meteo France website and consider carrying avalanche search equipment if you ski off-piste.

Transport risks

Road travel.

If you are planning to drive in France, see information on driving abroad and check the rules of the road in the RAC’s France guide . The guide lists driving regulations and other legal requirements you need to be aware of. 

You can use a UK photocard driving licence to drive in France. If you still have a paper driving licence, you may need to update it to a photocard licence or  get the correct version of the international driving permit ( IDP ) as well. 

Check if you need a UK sticker to drive your car outside the UK . These have replaced GB stickers.

Hire car companies often have stricter requirements for their customers, such as a year of driving experience, a higher minimum age and holding an IDP . 

Police give you on-the-spot fines for driving offences, including speeding.

France has strict drink-driving laws and the legal alcohol limit is a third lower than the limit for England and Wales. Police regularly carry out roadside checks for alcohol and drugs. Penalties include fines, loss of licence and prison.

Air pollution sticker

All vehicles driving in central Paris, Lyon and Grenoble must display a pollution sticker from 8am to 8pm, Monday to Friday. Checks can happen at any time, depending on pollution levels.

Some older vehicles do not qualify for a sticker at all due to their high emissions. These vehicles must not be driven in central Paris from 8am to 8pm, Monday to Friday.

Other cities may also limit vehicle access to town centres and main roads. For more information or to apply for a sticker, visit the  French Ministry of Environment website .

Road safety

If you’re involved in a car accident or witness an accident on the motorway, use the  orange emergency phones  to ask for help.

If you are driving long distances in France:

• plan your journey carefully
• take into account unknown roads, weather conditions and fatigue
• take regular breaks

Keep vehicle doors locked in slow-moving traffic and secure your vehicle if you leave it unattended.

Information on road safety and potential traffic black spots is available on the  Bison Futé website  (in French). Real-time information on road traffic conditions is also available on Motorways Radio: 107.7 FM in French and in English.

Risk of people entering your vehicle   

There have been attempts by people to enter private vehicles with a view to entering the UK illegally. They may target vehicles like camper vans while stationary or in slow-moving traffic. Sometimes people might try to slow down traffic on roads to ports, including by placing obstacles on the Calais Port road. 

Keep car doors locked, keep moving where it’s safe to do so, and do not leave your vehicle unattended. If it is not safe to proceed, stop and call 112.

Commercial transport firms must take steps to prevent people from entering their vehicles .  

Thefts from caravans and camper vans

Burglaries can happen while you are asleep in your vehicle. Take sensible precautions against vehicle break-ins. You should:

• avoid parking in isolated or dark areas of unsupervised camping grounds or car parks
• consider installing an alarm

Extreme weather and natural disasters

Find out what you can do to prepare for and respond to extreme weather and natural hazards .

Wildfires     

Wildfires can start anywhere in France during the summer months, particularly along the Mediterranean coast and in Corsica.

The French weather service have launched a fire alert map for travellers to check.

Fires have become more frequent because of drought and high temperatures. French authorities may evacuate areas and close roads for safety reasons.

If you’re staying in a high-risk area:

• check the local safety and emergency procedures
• be vigilant
• follow the advice of local authorities

If you are caught in, or witness, a wildfire call the emergency services on 18 (fire) or 112 (emergency services).

See information for property owners about bush clearance which can be mandatory in some areas.

There is a risk of flooding in areas of France. If your accommodation is near a river, check flash flood watch (‘vigicrues’)  (in French) for more information on current flood risks.

There is a risk of avalanches in mountainous areas. Check current weather forecasts and avalanche risks  on the Meteo France website. Follow local advice before you ski or hike and consider carrying avalanche search equipment.

Conditions on roads in mountainous areas can quickly become difficult in winter. Carry water, food, warm clothing and medicines in your vehicle.

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US travelers warned about increased terrorism and crime in Italy, France, Belize and more

U.S. citizens planning to go on an international trip may want to take the time to check online as the State Department issued new Travel Advisories for Italy, France, Belize and other countries on Tuesday. 

In total, 81 new Travel Advisories were posted, including four "Level 4" Travel Advisories for Russia, Central African Republic, Burkina Faso and Belarus. This level of advice  warns  Americans to "not travel" to these places because of "greater likelihood of life-threatening risks." 

There were 10 new "Level 3" Travel Advisories for people to "reconsider travel" due to "risks to safety and security." These countries include El Salvador, the Cayman Islands, and Colombia.

TRAVELING TO MEXICO? US citizens warned of 'kidnapping risk' in some parts of Mexico

State Department recommends to 'exercise increased caution'

Twenty-five countries also received a "Level 2" Travel Advisories telling travelers to "exercise increased caution" and to "be aware of heightened risks to safety and security." 

Learn more: Best travel insurance

► Italy travel warning

Among them was Italy , which has been seeing "increased caution due to terrorism." The State Department said that terrorists could attack high-profile public events like sporting events, clubs, public transportation systems and other public areas. The agency also said that those behind the attacks are using "less sophisticated methods" such as knives, firearms and vehicles to hurt crowds. 

There is also a "moderate rate of crime" in Italy for U.S. citizens, specifically for theft and economic crimes, not so much violent crimes. These types of crimes include not validating metro tickets properly and being fined or buying counterfeit goods.

People traveling to Italy should be aware of their surroundings when in public or crowded places and monitor the local media for breaking events. 

GOING TO THE US? Not everyone wants to come to the US:Gun violence, safety concerns are keeping travelers away

TRAVEL SAFETY TIPS:  17 CIA tips on how to think like a spy and stay safe while on vacation

► France travel warning

France was another country issued with a "Level 2" Travel Advisory due to terrorism and civil unrest. The State Department warns that, like in Italy, terrorist attacks can happen with little to no warning in popular tourist locations. French police and military are patrolling public spaces, so U.S. citizens should be prepared to go through security inspections at public venues and other businesses. 

Thousands of people have recently taken to the streets in Paris to protest Iranian leadership after the death of Mahsa Amini , a 22-year-old Iranian woman who died while detained by Iran's morality police for not properly wearing her hijab on Sept. 16. Police responded to the demonstrations with water cannons, rubber bullets and tear gas.

With these demonstrations expected to only continue for the next few weeks, the State Department warns people to avoid travel to Paris and other major French cities. 

► Belize travel warning

Belize was also issued a "Level 2" Travel Advisory by the agency due to increased crime, like armed robberies and sexual assault, especially in the south side of Belize City and other remote areas along the country's borders. These crimes are mostly gang-related and even take place during daylight hours and in popular tourist areas. 

"Local police lack the resources and training to respond effectively to serious criminal incidents," the agency wrote. "Most crimes remain unresolved and unprosecuted."

Tourists are often targeted by criminals at resorts and roads, and crimes can range from the more violent to pick-pocketing or extortion. 

San Pedro is one of the areas where there is thought to be a credit card fraud ring, so tourists should be careful of cash and credit card theft while there.

Victims of overseas crimes should report what happened to the local police and then contact the U.S. Embassy who can help assist the local authorities. As a reminder, the U.S. Embassy is not a law enforcement agency. 

• English (EN)
• Español (ES)
• Português (BR)

Is Paris Safe? Crime Rates & Safety Report

France : Safety by City

• Montpellier

Besides being the most visited tourist destination and the most beautiful city in world, Paris is cosmopolitan city located in the north of France on the river Seine and is home to the world’s finest and most luxurious fashion designers and cosmetics, such as Chanel, Dior, Yves Saint-Laurent, Guerlain, Lancôme, L’Oréal, Clarins.

Paris is visited by over 30 million tourists every year and many people consider it the most romantic of all cities.

It has a nickname “the city of light” and is the center of culture, art, fashion, food, and design.

• Warnings & Dangers in Paris

OVERALL RISK: MEDIUM

The police are doing their best to make Paris a safe place to live and travel, but the number of tourists attracts a lot of pickpockets on the city’s streets. The overall risk is medium, but still, you need to remain cautious as in any other tourist destination in the world.

TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: MEDIUM

Pedestrians need to pay attention when crossing streets because drivers can be very aggressive in Paris. Cars can be even found in pedestrian-only areas. If you decide to come with your car, be aware that driving in Paris is dangerous and there are limited Parking spaces. When traveling by taxi, determine the price before getting in the taxi, since Paris taxi drivers to overcharge tourists. There might be some risk while taking public transport in Paris.

PICKPOCKETS RISK: HIGH

Pickpocketing is the most common crime in Paris targeting tourists, so take care of your possessions, especially in trains, metro stations, and any popular tourist areas. You can protect yourself by having less than $100 in cash with you at a time and using your hotel room safe. Never leave your bags or valuables unattended because they might be considered a security threat and can be destroyed by security officials.

NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: LOW

Except for a few avalanche risks and floods, there are not any more serious natural hazards in Paris.

MUGGING RISK: LOW

Paris is a very safe city when the serous crime acts are in question, so the mugging and kidnapping risk is low.

TERRORISM RISK: HIGH

The high terrorist threat exists in the whole of Europe and in Paris too, since it is the most visited capital and a very attractive one to the terrorists. Due to recent terrorist attacks, Authorities advise people to STAY ALERT and follow their advice. Terrorism is special threat to British travelers and open spaces or demonstrations should be avoided since that attracts the Islamist terrorist group.

SCAMS RISK: HIGH

A lot of scammers in Paris try to take advantage of tourists. The most famous tricks are “gold ring” tricks when somebody pretends to find a ring in front of you and demand money for it, fake petitions, groups of teenagers offering help with your luggage. Be especially aware around Notre Dame, Arc de Triomphe, the Louvre, and the Eiffel Tower.

WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW

Even though Paris is safe for women travelers, when traveling alone, they should avoid areas around metro Les Halles, Gare du Nord, Stalingrad, and Jaures particularly late at night and should stay in well-lit areas. Eye contact with a man is considered as an invitation to make advances.

• So... How Safe Is Paris Really?

Paris is such a great city because it offers the tourist a chance to go to almost every part of the city without being afraid of mugging, kidnapping or any other type of serious crime.

Paris is one of the safer cities in Europe and the biggest problem one may face while in Paris is pickpockets and scammers.

Pickpockets are likely to be found in any area with large crowds, such as train stations and large department stores.

The police are professional and do its best to make Paris even safer, but you still need to practice common sense.

• How Does Paris Compare?
• Useful Information

As in any other European country which belongs to the European Union, the visas are not required for stays under 90 days for the visitors that do not belong to the European Union, while the EU nationals are permitted to stay in the country as long as they want. A valid passport is a must.

The official currency in France is the Euro. The ATMs should be used with care and you need to pay attention to your surroundings when you withdraw money. Paris is one of the very expensive capital cities.

Paris has a maritime climate. The winters are cool and summers are warm. In January, the temperatures are 6°C without frequent snow. Summers in Paris are warm and pleasant and that is the best part of the year to visit it.

There are many airport options when coming to Paris since you can use any of the international airports such as Aéroport de Charles de Gaulle, Paris Orly, Aéroport de Bordeaux, Aéroport de Lille, Aéroport International Strasbourg, Aéroport Lyon-St Exupéry, Aéroport Marseille-Provence, Aéroport Nantes Atlantique, Aéroport Nice Côte d’Azur, and Aéroport Toulouse-Blagnac.

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance which will cover medical problems, theft, and loss of personal items is essential in any country, as well as in France. Travelers usually purchase travel insurance along with their plane tickets.

Paris Weather Averages (Temperatures)

• Average High/Low Temperature

France - Safety by City

Explore paris.

• 10 Things to Do in Paris With Kids
• Airbnbs in Downtown Paris to Be Banned?
• Top 4 Most Expensive Hotels in Paris
• Where to Next?

37 Reviews on Paris

It is just awful , people are trying to mug you , you just cant walk and feel safe near the refuges , smell of piss is everywhere , Paris was the most beautiful city I have ever visited , but right now I would not recommend to anyone to go near it .

Probably governed by liberals

I love Paris and I go often. With like any city you just have to be aware of your surroundings. Paris is safer than any American City. The people of Paris are wonderful . The Food is like no other in the world. If you have taste you will love Paris

Don’t come to Paris

I agree and I m French.

Paris is a ghetto nowadays. Be REALLY careful there, and don’t go if you can avoid it. Even the city centre is dangerous now. If what you are looking for is visiting a big European city, there are way better options like London which are way more safe (and beautiful too).

my daughter and her friends visited while in school in europe ,,they were robbed 2x in 2 hours by gangs in train station not non violent pickpockets gangs ……

Dangerous place

Gare du Nord is a horrific place. Swarms of gangs looking for innocent victims to rob. The metro is even worse. Most awful travel experience.

Paris is no longer Paris

Can you believe that Paris has a better safety-rating than Moscow or Ukraine?

I lived in Paristan. It’s 30% safe at best. Such an overly expensive ghetto.

Do NOT go to Gare du Nord.

Do NOT go out at night in town, especially if you are a lady on your own.

AVOID the metro and the RER after dark. Nothing much is open late but kebab shops and halal grocery stores, anyway.

Very sad, I know.

True, Paris needs to clean up its act fast. I went 5 yrs ago, never again. Filthy 3rd world people everywhere. Avoid.

Really Sketchy place

Mugging risk, unlike stated in this article is really high. Just don’t make the wrong turn.

Beware! Pickpockets! Human trafficking! Not safe for solo female travelers!

This rating is way off. Paris is not safe for solo female travelers! Especially young women, even those traveling in pairs. Pickpockets and men pulling at you. Be wary, you could be a victim of human trafficking.

Networks of pickpockets use distraction techniques. Do not take your eyes off your belongings when moving to and from your hotel or rental. You will have to be rude and ignore people who talk to you at times. Hoards of idle men loitering in the streets and especially near metro stations. I was surprised by how many men there were and very few women.

I had my backpack stolen with a computer, hard drives, and pro camera within minutes after arriving – my carry on. Was right at my feet for less than 30 seconds outside my AirBnB in the 18th, before some guy started talking to me – and as I instinctively looked at him for briefly, the other guy grabbed my backpack.

Police told me they can’t keep up with these networks. Found Paris to be a very scary city overall. This is coming from a Chicago native, and very vigilant about safety and belongings. Nothing I could’ve done differently but never take it off or use both belt and chest straps. Thankfully my passport and cards were in an RFID wallet tightly attached.

Lyft/Uber drivers will frequently cancel rides claiming you are a “no-show”, while you get charged the cancel fee – and they get paid.

France is a safe place everywhere except in Paris. You should avoid this city, or stay in rich area. You should discover the real France, not this pathetic third-world city who not belong to France anymore.

Two women felt quite safe

My daughter and I went to Paris recently in summer 2020 and felt quite safe. I would feel worried if my daughter was traveling alone in any large city because she doesn’t have experience with ignoring unwanted attention or requests, nor assessing the level of threat and best response/reaction one should take. However the 2 of us together, we never felt unsafe, with one exception. The exception was COVID-19 in crowded metros, especially with some men speaking loudly to each other with their masks pulled down. In some neighborhoods, there are languages spoken other than french, where the men speak extremely loudly to each other on the sidewalks, forming a sort of corridor that you’d have to walk through. To avoid the risk of contamination, we’d detour around such groups, crossing the street if needed. You have to use common sense and ignore people with weird requests, like asking you to read a postcard or weird stuff, but surprisingly on this visit, those people were non-existant. We visited all the usual tourist spots, traveled on the metro in the evening, and walked a lot, in perfect safety.

Biased review

After reading that page and the one for Shanghai I’m 100% sure the author never visited those cities but instead did little more than naively copy-paste biased reviews from other websites. I am originally from Paris and I live since several years in Shanghai. I find unbelievable a dangerous place like Paris gets higher rate than Shanghai (which is one of the safest city in the world along with Singapore and Tokyo).

You never got the right experience of Shanghai or Paris, sorry ma dude…

Agree with you

Completely agree with you, as another former parisian who moved to China almost 5 years ago. Paris is no longer what it was.

France no longer doing well....

I am french and left the country 20 years ago… for family reasons. The reason why the country drastically changed is due to European borders opening in 2000. The famous Europe! that was supposed to unify…. The rich left and the poor came, But mainly it is due to passive and stupid politicians. They decided to let anybody in and also to let incivility and violence take place. Bad choices, removed also mandatory one year military trainings … a good way to strengthen some minds!! ..Police and teachers are under paid and under respected… i can go on with so many reasons why the country turned bad…Plus Paris attracts more than other cities.

Haven’t been and after reading all of the ratings, I have decided not to go. Stupid politicians and opening the borders sounds familiar (US). Thanks for your input.

you should go,i have been there and it is decently safe,trust me

Beautiful in the centre of the city. But surrounds are some of the worst ghetto suburbs you’ll ever see.

It’s an amazing city to visit, issue is, scams at the Mona Lisa Museum are bound to happen.

Don’t think of Paris as a romantic place for late night walks and everyone is smiling… be safe go elsewhere

It should be more realistic

France is not safe but not because of terrorism but because of France itself

I think thst Paris is super safe and fun

Not at all what we had hoped for

Pretty much in tandem with some of the other travelers! Awful at night, even for a couple traveling together. The whole Parisian vibe we were hoping to experience can pretty much be summed with just one word: overrated. Sure, the pandemic affected the traveling sector but this has happened worldwide. I am referring to the smell, the crowds upon crowds of people, those beady eyes constantly scanning us to look for potential exposed belongings. I don’t know when this became the norm but I know for sure I won’t be coming back anytime soon.

Paris should not be the capital of France anymore, its the terrorism capital of Western Europe.

The safety is much lower than 68. Paris has lot of gun crime even the metro also has lots of crime. In fact, Paris has little peace. The city has lots of ghetto places. Better stick to the place with fewer guns.

Just returned from Paris. I would never visit again. Subways are not safe. Taxis are gross and food is very very expensive. There is absolutely no where to go after dark. I am a 55 year old Dad traveling with my daughters. I was with my 60 year olf brother and his girls. Absolutely run over w trash and filth.

Lived in Paris 22 years ….. i’m safe, thank you. BUT OK. You need to know where, when, whith who, how, you go … it’s not a dangerous place at ALL if you’ve traveled a little … it’s just a capital ….seriously, it’s not so bad, but yes you have to take care of yourself anytime. Like … everywhere ?

Have a Nice trip

Well, I dont like Paris. Some places you don’t see any black people but when you far the Paris everywhere black and you find it white like there’s a needle in a haystack. and a lot bad stuff.

Just so you know, you West asians and north africans overwhelmingly dominate the sector of “bad and problematic” minorities in France and Europe beyond far more than blacks do

What can you expect from a major city?

Remember, Paris is huge. When you have a city of this size, it’s going to have problems. But I’m not sure that the net ratio of problems per capita is any higher than Chicago. Overall, expect large crowds and bad traffic most times, regardless of which part of the city. I personally saw the aftermath of 2 crashes on the road even though I was only there a brief period. Paris is certainly nothing alone the lines of an open war zone, but there are safer cities of similar size elsewhere in the world. Treat it with the same respect you would any metropolis, and you are not likely to be a victim. If you are worried about being pick pocketed, get a chain wallet and Ykooe cell phone holster. If your clothes don’t support wearing a belt, you are putting yourself at a disadvantage. For anyone who is not aware… going out to a bar and getting drunk late at night, especially while alone, is an excellent way to make yourself vulnerable, regardless of whether in France or a much safer locale such as Scandinavia. Use common sense…

Only place in the world I have been robbed three times. The first two times I was living in Paris. Children and women are the typical culprits and they are professional. I have been all over Europe, Africa and Asia and only robbed in Paris. This misinformation is why so many traveling to Paris are unprepared, deemed safe because its Europe, not because its actually safe

never again.

We traveled in a large group. After eating in the Georgian restaurant in the Paris center, we where robbed by a black males who ripped off the watches and ran off. Police said don’t wear expensive watches. Overall- durty delipidated city with unfriendly people and nothing interesting created in the 100 years. Go to Asia or Eastern European instead.

Paris is not good to travel

I do not recommend Paris for tourists because of police the Paris police not doing there job well they see there is pickpockets and robbers but they ignore them so why everyone is free to do anything if police do there job that will be the best city for ever i don’t know that police have link with them or what but police is nothing in Paris

Still a pretty safe country to visit. Forget your worries about crime and Emmanuel Macron

My info is probably biased, so it is fine if you get me wrong. I went to Paris and did not sense any insecurity, aside from the strikes and the protests of course. However, you still should be on the lookout for any robbers or pickpockets, as this is common. This year, police efficiency increased, and crimes began to fall. Marseille is still pretty safe, but the number of murders went from somewhere like 32 to 36, so that’s also where police presence increased I think. I semi-agree with what @David above says, but is not like the police don’t want to reduce crime rates (some police officers are like that), they are not told to enough, and political correctness made by “Mr Unnecessary,” aka Macron is to blame!

Visited this November, and had a great time. Felt safe everywhere I went I just saw a few scams from gypsies’ girls. If you don’t talk to them you are fine.

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Article Contents

• Paris : Safety by City
• Overall Risk
• Transport & Taxis Risk
• Pickpockets Risk
• Natural Disasters Risk
• Mugging Risk
• Terrorism Risk
• Women Travelers Risk
• Weather Averages (Temperatures)
• User Reviews
• Share Your Experience

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Paris Safety Tips: Advice and Warnings for Tourists

Traveling to a place like Paris, every tourist should know how they can avoid annoying events during their trip.   Occupying 105 square kilometers, the city is undoubtedly one of the major European cities and is a global center for art, gastronomy, culture, and especially fashion. 

Although everyone has a beautiful, dreamy image of Paris in their mind. People often tend to be shocked when they arrive and get to know about the crime, pickpocketing, thefts, street harassment, and constant targeting by con artists. 

Paris is one of the best cities to travel to; however, you should know about the dark side of the city so you can stay safe, as tourists can be easy targets. 

If you ask about the rates of violent crime rates, they are comparatively low here, and that is the biggest relief. Not that you are not going to experience anything traumatizing and life-threatening  per se , but some crimes like pickpocketing, are very common. 

So if you are traveling to any big, crowded, and loud city, like Paris, these basic safety tips can go a long way in making sure that you avoid dangerous and unpleasant experiences.

Some travelers select guided tours, while some choose to make travel arrangements without any help. There are times, however, when traveling with a tour group might be the safer option.

First, you should know the details of the crimes that often occur, especially on streets mostly frequented by tourists.

>>Also Read: Is Paris Safe?

Lets Take A Look At Some Common Safety Concerns and Safety Tips For Paris

Pickpocketing.

First, you can’t say or claim that pickpocketing only happens in Paris. Obviously, all the big cities where tourists are headed has got to be populated with petty people like these. Nobody would expect to get looted in a lively city like Paris. Pickpocketing is an old common problem in Paris, and it can ruin your day or even your tour. But there are some simple things you can do to make it less likely to happen as a visitor.

You should know the techniques and methods that petty thieves deploy. This is because they are experienced to the point that you will not notice you had been robbed. These Pickpockets and petty thieves mostly prey on confused and unsuspecting tourists, who are not aware of the country’s rituals. As such, most of the battle is about being aware.

You need to be confident in public and look ‘less novice’ so you do not look like a complete stranger (though you are). Be casual and do not make eye contact with suspicious people. These Pickpockets thieves are so smart, they can tell by your body language that you are confused and new to this place, so they will always approach you and try to confuse you. 

They could be polite for the sake of ending up believing them. But the key is to remain confident. It is extremely rare for people to be physically hurt, the thieves do not hurt the victim, and anyone who is a victim of a theft is advised not to chase the thief and not try to recover items but go straight to the police station and seek help.

>>Also Read: Areas To Avoid In Paris

Take Precautions

You should not be keeping anything else in your pocket or bag, than the stuff you are willing to lose. Yes, keep only a little amount of cash and avoid keeping cards, checkbooks, and any expensive jewelry. You should never keep your passport in a bag or wallets while roaming around the city, it could be a reason of grief for you.

The places you are most likely to be robbed are crowded places like the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame, and the Champs-Elysées. According to research, these thieves and Pickpockets commonly work near tourist attractions like museums, monuments, restaurants, hotels, beaches, trains, train stations, airports, subways, and target vehicles. They are mostly people who have non- local license plates. Adolescents because it is hard to get minors jailed there. They could also be in groups of boys and girls belonging to all races. 

Very importantly, make copies of your passport, visa, and credit card numbers. Put these in your main bags and luggage, so that if the originals are robbed or stolen, you still have all the information for insurance and changing purposes.

Street Harassment In Paris

Sadly, abuse and street harassment prevail in every country. But Paris being the biggest destination for tourists, happens to have the most cases of street harassment. It is a culture in France that has been ignored for a long time.

According to a study, a woman out of two has been subjected to harassment. Men in France are not as polite as in UK or US, they whistle at you, weirdly stare, and you are going to notice this as soon as you arrive there. People comment at you more in general, and that is kind of annoying. And if unluckily you end up being in the notorious area of Paris, there is a chance of you being chased up or asked by a random French for your number, so be careful.

Not to terrify you, but if you are a tourist and looking to withdraw some cash out from ATM, you need to be very careful, especially if you see a group of young people roaming around. They can be a big scam. Many young people try to confuse people at ATM, especially by making loud noises, or they will randomly start talking to you. You have to be very careful. Appear to be confident and bit rude to them, so they back off. Do not talk to people at ATM. Otherwise, you are going to be regretting soon. Also, do not go alone if you are new to the city.

Not that kind, boys! I am talking about overcharging, of course. When   you land in the city, you are going to get many offers from people, offering you a ride to the central city at a cheaper rate; Ubers and taxis are quite expensive in Paris. But you should not hop into any car without inquiry. 

These scams offer you cheaper rates, but at the arrival, ask you for double money, and you are going to get confused. Always ask the driver for their names and license. Also, do research before hopping into any taxi, because you can end up giving out a lot of money. The trick is that you need to see taxi signs, if there are no signs, say NO. 

It is advisable not to hire a battered or damaged car. And avoid taking cars that do not have meters. Do avoid drivers that are trying to be overfriendly.

Stick to Public Transport

If you are staying in Paris for more than two weeks, it is advisable you only book public transport because taxis and Ubers are expensive. So you invest in public transport as they are cheaper and safer. There are many short-term passes to travel in public transport which can help tourists.

>>Also Read: Public Transport Guide For Paris

Gold Ring Scam

It is a very common scam in the French capital. When you are roaming around the city, you are probably going to hear the tinkle of metal ring coated in gold color hitting the ground. You are going to get confused, but when you turn around, a lady, who is basically a scam, is going to ask you about the ring, and you are probably going to say that it is not yours.

But that lady insists people take that ring saying that it is for lucky charm or that your better half would like it. And when you agree to take the ring, she demands money and says that you have bought it; and now you are paying for it. Be careful.

>>Also Read: Most Common Tourist Scams And How To Avoid Them

Fake Charity Collection Groups

You are going to meet these unscrupulous groups close to the Eiffel Tower and in most of the touristy areas. They are undoubtedly con artists. If somebody demands money on the spot, walk away. That is not how one collects for charity. 

Legitimate charity collectors ask for contact details and gather information but do not put you on the spot and embarrass in public. These fake charity collectors often pretend to be gathering charity for deaf and mute, so you cannot question their authenticity. They are known to operate heavily in areas frequented by tourists.

Be Careful Around Protests

Parisians are very expressive when it comes to their political ideologies; they do not hold it back. So you got to know if there are any protests going on the place you are planning to go. The situations can sometimes go out of hand, like burning vehicles, etc.

Travel With Tour Groups

It is always good to travel with tour groups. The authentic groups will help you manage everything during your stay in Paris. They are the experts who are experienced in helping visitors settle and enjoy the city. 

Also, these groups make sure you are aware of every scam and any other thing that can happen. 

Perhaps you have always wanted to visit Paris or France, but worry that you will not be able to make yourself understood in the city or find your way. A tour group led by a guide that speaks French fluently can be an excellent way to see your dream city. Your tour guide knows the local area better than you do and can give you tips for the best time there.

Be Aware Of Your Surroundings While Sitting In Cafes

When you are sitting at a café- most commonly when you are sitting outside of the café or any cheap shop- someone will randomly come to you with a big paper map to ask you about getting directions to someplace, just to confuse you. You can be sure that after you are done talking to that stranger, all the valuables on the table and around are gone and had been robbed. 

This is a very common trick to steal mobiles and digital stuff from locals and travelers. It is most preferable to sit inside the café, and you might want to avoid going to cafes, which look cheaper or unpopular as these petty thieves mostly appear in those places where there is less or no security.

Metro Stations

It is very hard to avoid unpleasant experiences while you are at a station in Paris because it is a place where a lot of random people are going to approach you. Mostly at the metro station, people pretend to be official and ask you for your information. 

They can also appear with badges, so it is very hard to acknowledge them. They will ask you to buy a bogus ticket or a cheaper ticket, and obviously, want you to pay them. Always go to the ticket teller behind glass or research online. Many people fall prey to these scams because they look legit.

>>Also Read: How to Use Public Transportation in Paris

The Moulin Rouge 

The Moulin Rouge is on drag with a lot of sordid and debauched areas, sex shops, etc. Although this place is usually active and busy with tourists, there are fewer chances of any crime or inconvenience to occur for the visitors as the area is quite safe – in terms of violent crime, but yeah quite weird and tacky. 

It is advisable to avoid going to that place. It is maybe not as swanky as other places. You can shop at the grocery store across the street in the basement, and there are many well-dressed Parisians there, so you can get inspiration for your looks during the stay.

Friendship Bracelets

Bracelet scams are common in Paris. That feels unbelievable, but with a bit of foreknowledge, you will be amazingly prepared to deal with this common scam in the city. What happens? There is a random person on a crowded street that approaches you or even before talking to you, forcefully ties a friendship bracelet to your hand, and then the obvious, ask you to pay for it. You have to be careful in crowded areas because they often prey on the unaware.

Health Precaution s

Diseases that are common in paris.

The most common disease there are Insect borne diseases   which include zika, chikungunya (in Saint Martin, Saint Barthelemy), dengue, leishmaniasis, Lyme disease, tick-borne encephalitis, and West Nile virus, you need to do good research on these diseases. The other diseases that can prey on you are food and water-borne diseases, which can cause diarrhea and schistosomiasis. Because there are lots of animals and pets in the city, animal-borne diseases are also common, which are rabies and measles. 

How to Stay Safe from These Diseases in Paris

Get sufficient  travel insurance  as Emergency health services can cost you a lot. But insurers can make complex manipulative arrangements to get you the best of medical treatment as fast as possible.

You should also consider vaccinations, especially the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis vaccine, varicella (chickenpox) vaccine, polio vaccine, flu shot.

Prevent Insect Bites:

You can always wear protective clothing, jackets, jeans, etc. Also, use insect repellents, insecticide-treated bed/cot nets, that you can buy from nearby, snap-in insecticides. Avoid wooded and grass areas with high bushes.

Food Safety

Practice better hygiene when you are traveling (e.g., washing hands with hand sanitizer). Always try to drink purified bottled water or water that has been cleaned and boiled. Try to avoid unpasteurized or unpurified dairy products while traveling. Also, avoid ice cubes, uncooked, and under-cooked food.

Emergency Numbers of Note in Paris

The following numbers can all be dialed free of cost from any mobile/cell in France and from payphones, if available. In any sort of emergency or assault, dial these numbers;

For any Medical Emergencies: Dial “15” For Fire brigade: Dial “18” To Police: Dial “17” Drug Info Service: 0 800 23 13 13 AIDS/HIV Info Service: 0 800 840 800 Poison treatment center: 01 40 05 48 48 Sexually-transmitted diseases: 01 40 78 26 00 SOS Médecins (doctors): 01 47 07 77 77 Dentaire (dentists): 01 43 37 51 00 Burns (Hôpital Cochin): 01 58 41 41 41

>>Also Read: Paris Travel Guide

Pharmacies in the Capital

Paris city has numerous and huge numbers of pharmacies in the main city, which can be easily identified by their green crosses, which are lighting up. Many French pharmacists speak global languages like English and can provide you with instant and over-the-counter medications such as painkillers or cough reliever. Paris does not have USA styled drugstores, so you will have to go to a pharmacy for instant and emergency medication.

Embassy Numbers and Contact Details:

When traveling abroad, including Paris, it is always a smart idea to have your country’s embassy contact details on the phone or wherever you feel convenient. If you run into any problem, the first thing to do is replace a lost or stolen passport, or experience other emergencies. You can consult to the embassies for all the details.

Survival and Safety Tips for Paris

• Never put anything valuable in your pockets, keep everything valuable and pricy in front of you, be aware all the time.
• If you are in escalator and it stops, if anyone insists you to help you with your luggage, decline that politely, do not trust anyone.
• If someone comes up to you and ask you to sign any petition, decline that. Do not buy anything in the middle of the street.
• Whenever you are roaming around the city, travel with as little cash as possible.
• Do not engage with groups of young Parisian teenagers, because they could be disrespectful and can embarrass you in public.
• Do not have your camera and phone out in metro stations.
• Stick to public transport, avoid spending too much money on transportation, because it is expensive in Paris.
• Try to blend as much as possible. This means you should try to look like a long-time resident, try to dress like locals.
• Do not give money to the beggars. While some are genuinely in need, but sadly most of the beggars on the street are scams.
• You do not have to be nice to everyone. If you are feeling uncomfortable, you have the right to leave, without feeling guilty about that.
• Do not consume a lot of alcohol because you do not want to be lethargic in a city where pickpockets are common.
• There are a lot of flirtatious locals in the city; be aware of them, do not make them feel welcome if you don’t want to.
• Do not travel alone there because this romantic city can make you feel alone and miserable.
• Paris is a beautiful and statistically safe city, and one can travel there alone as well, but you always have to take precautions.

Paris Safety Tips – Summary

These pieces of advice have not given to terrify you but to prepare you for a pleasant and safe experience tour and stay in Paris, so your safety would not be compromised. Paris is generally a cool city, but no visitor can be ever careful enough.

Do you have any other Safety Tips For Paris you would like to share? Let our readers know in the comments below.

Peter is the editor of France Travel Blog. He has traveled to France many times and is ready to share the knowledge in this travel guide for France.

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FACT SHEET: United States Response to the Clade I Mpox Outbreak in Several African Countries

On August 14, 2024, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared a Public Health Emergency of International Concern about the upsurge of mpox cases in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and a growing number of countries in Africa. This announcement followed the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention's (Africa CDC) declaration of a Public Health Emergency of Continental Security on August 13. The significant increase of clade I mpox cases, in both endemic countries (those that have previously had mpox outbreaks) and non-endemic countries (those that have historically not reported mpox outbreaks), threatens the health security of the region, as well as countries outside Africa. In addition, clade I mpox has a newer sub-clade referred to as clade Ib. Both clade Ia and clade Ib are circulating in DRC and have been detected in neighboring countries and in Sweden and Thailand (one case each associated with travel to Africa with known clade I cases).

In 2022, the world experienced a global outbreak of clade IIb mpox, which led to more than 95,000 cases across 115 non-endemic countries and continues to occur in the United States. The Biden-Harris Administration responded by ensuring the JYNNEOS mpox vaccine was available to at-risk populations in the U.S.

In February, as the clade I mpox outbreak grew in DRC, the Biden-Harris Administration established an incident response structure across federal departments and agencies to ensure a coordinated response and to take a proactive approach to U.S. domestic preparedness for potential clade I mpox cases. Clade I mpox causes a higher number of severe infections and has a higher mortality rate than clade IIb mpox. Because evidence for clade I mpox clinical outcomes is based primarily on data from endemic countries without widespread supportive care, particularly DRC, we do not yet know how clade I mpox would impact Americans; we do expect it would cause lower morbidity and mortality in the United States.

United States preparedness for clade I mpox

The Biden-Harris Administration has been closely monitoring the spread of mpox, specifically clade I mpox, and has been working since December 2023 to prepare domestically. The risk to most Americans from clade I mpox circulating in Central and Eastern Africa and the travel associated cases outside of Africa is very low, and there are no known cases in the United States at this time. The United States is well prepared to rapidly detect, contain, and manage clade I cases should they occur domestically.

The United States continues to increase our capacity to detect cases of clade I and clade IIb mpox through existing surveillance systems, including wastewater testing, and through expanding the robust diagnostic testing capacity built during the ongoing clade IIb outbreak to ensure coverage for clade I. The ability to expedite such diagnostic testing—in particular for those with recent travel to DRC or neighboring countries—also supports rapid detection. In addition to reaffirming the importance of mpox vaccination for those who are eligible , we are working to prevent the spread of both clades of mpox by providing and disseminating recommendations for clinicians, health departments, diagnostic laboratories, and the public.

From August 2022 to August 2024, the Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response (ASPR), part of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), distributed more than one million vials of the JYNNEOS vaccine across the United States to mitigate the spread and severity of the clade II mpox outbreak. In addition to the preventive vaccine, partners across the U.S. government are working to better understand the effectiveness of existing treatments for mpox and have treatment options available in the event that clade I mpox is reported in the United States. The United States will continue to provide information to the public on transmission, prevention, and treatment of mpox. Those who have already had clade IIb mpox or who are fully vaccinated against it are expected to be protected against clade I mpox.

CDC has issued an updated Health Alert Network advisory for clinicians and public health departments and partners, as well as an updated Travel Health Notice , recommending travelers to DRC and neighboring countries to practice enhanced precautions. Through the State Department, our embassies are working to keep U.S. citizens abroad informed of these updates. At this time, CDC and WHO do not discourage travel to DRC or elsewhere due to the mpox outbreaks.

United States support to the global mpox outbreak

The U.S. government has been closely monitoring the spread of clade I mpox in DRC and the risk to neighboring countries since 2023, and we have been working closely with the affected country governments and regional and global health partners to reduce the impact of this outbreak and safeguard public health. The U.S. government support for the mpox response builds on our longstanding partnerships in global health security and development with DRC and throughout Africa, which have helped to combat infectious diseases, such as HIV, tuberculosis, and malaria for more than 20 years. In fiscal year 2023, the United States allocated more than $2.65 billion in bilateral health funding to countries in Central and Eastern Africa and is the largest global health donor.

Since March 2024, USAID and CDC together have provided an additional $20 million USD to support clade I mpox response efforts in Central and Eastern Africa, and on August 20, USAID announced up to an additional $35 million in emergency health assistance to bolster response efforts, pending Congressional Notification, bringing the proposed total U.S. government financial support for DRC and other affected countries in the region to more than $55 million.

In addition to direct financial support, the United States government is surging staff to support the mpox response. More than 200 staff including epidemiologists, laboratorians, and risk communication experts have been deployed to support response efforts in the United States and Africa. United States government support has focused on a range of critical public health interventions aimed at limiting transmission and reducing mpox morbidity and mortality. These interventions include surveillance with deployment of additional local field epidemiologists, risk communication and community engagement, laboratory supplies and diagnostics, infection prevention and control, clinical services, and vaccine planning.

In addition to scaling up surveillance, testing, and treatment of cases, vaccination will be a critical element of the response to this outbreak. Successful vaccination campaigns will require health workers to provide vaccinations, financial support to roll out vaccine and vaccination supplies, and regulatory approval for use of vaccines in affected countries. To support this effort, USAID is donating 50,000 doses of the FDA-approved JYNNEOS vaccine to DRC, as well as financial support for rollout of the vaccine doses. The United States is working with other countries that have vaccine stockpiles, WHO, and international partners to encourage additional donations that support vaccine efforts and address challenges with vaccine delivery. This includes evaluating vaccine demand, supporting country engagement on regulatory pathways, planning vaccine implementation, and providing technical assistance to deliver the vaccines.

The United States is working with bilateral, multilateral, and private sector partners to develop and implement a coordinated response – including encouraging collaboration between WHO and Africa CDC on their response plans. The United States, through the State Department, will continue working through the U.S.-Africa CDC Joint Action Plan adopted in November 2023 to increase African Union Member States' capacity to prevent, detect, and respond to health emergencies.

The Biden-Harris Administration will continue its whole-of-government response to this growing outbreak, building on lessons learned from the 2022 mpox response. To learn more about mpox, signs and symptoms, treatments, and prevention, please visit the CDC website here .

### U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES

Whether diseases start at home or abroad, are curable or preventable, chronic or acute, or from human activity or deliberate attack, CDC’s world-leading experts protect lives and livelihoods, national security and the U.S. economy by providing timely, commonsense information, and rapidly identifying and responding to diseases, including outbreaks and illnesses. CDC drives science, public health research, and data innovation in communities across the country by investing in local initiatives to protect everyone’s health.

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Rick Steves Paris (Travel Guide) Paperback – Folded Map, September 20, 2022

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• Fully updated, comprehensive coverage for spending a week or more in Paris
• Rick's strategic advice on how to get the most out of your time and money, with rankings of his must-see favorites
• Top sights and hidden gems, from Notre-Dame, the Louvre, and the Palace of Versailles to where to find the perfect croissant
• How to connect with culture: Stroll down Rue Cler for fresh, local goods to build the ultimate French picnic, marvel at the works of Degas and Monet, and sip café au lait at a streetside café
• Beat the crowds, skip the lines, and avoid tourist traps with Rick's candid, humorous insight
• The best places to eat, sleep, and relax with a glass of vin rouge
• Self-guided walking tours of lively neighborhoods and incredible museums and churches
• Detailed maps, including a fold-out map for exploring on the go
• Over 700 bible-thin pages include everything worth seeing without weighing you down
• Coverage of the best arrondissements in Paris, including Champs-Elysees, the Marais, Montmartre, and more, plus day trips to Versailles, Chartres, Giverny, and Auvers-sur-Oise
• Covid-related travel info and resources for a smooth trip
• Print length 720 pages
• Language English
• Publisher Rick Steves
• Publication date September 20, 2022
• Dimensions 4.55 x 1.7 x 8 inches
• ISBN-10 1641714794
• ISBN-13 978-1641714792
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What sets Rick Steves apart from other travel guides?

A personal and experienced take - Rick Steves has spent over 40 years traveling Europe and he shares his favorite spots and essential travel strategies with you.

Are these books updated for current travel?

Rick and his team fan out across Europe personally checking and updating each listing in his guidebooks. These are the most accurate guides to Europe!

Why should I use a Rick Steves guidebook?

Rick will point you toward worthwhile experiences and help avoid expensive mistakes. A Rick Steves book is like having a tour guide in your pocket!

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• Publisher ‏ : ‎ Rick Steves; 24th edition (September 20, 2022)
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• Paperback ‏ : ‎ 720 pages
• ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 1641714794
• ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1641714792
• Item Weight ‏ : ‎ 2.31 pounds
• Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 4.55 x 1.7 x 8 inches
• #9 in Paris Travel Guides
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Rick steves.

Guidebook author and travel TV host Rick Steves is America's most respected authority on European travel. Rick took his first trip to Europe in 1969, visiting piano factories with his father, a piano importer. As an 18-year-old, Rick began traveling on his own, funding his trips by teaching piano lessons. In 1976, he started his business, Rick Steves' Europe, which has grown from a one-man operation to a company with a staff of 100 full-time, well-travelled employees at his headquarters in Washington state. There he produces more than 50 guidebooks on European travel, America's most popular travel series on public television, a weekly hour-long national public radio show, a weekly syndicated column, and free travel information available through his travel center and ricksteves.com. Rick Steves' Europe also runs a successful European tour program. Rick Steves lives and works in his hometown of Edmonds, Washington. His office window overlooks his old junior high school.

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Philippines Reports First Mpox Case Since W.H.O. Declared Global Emergency

It was not clear if the patient had contracted the new, potentially more deadly strain of the disease, which first appeared outside of Africa in Sweden last week.

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By Eve Sampson

The Philippines reported its first case this year of mpox, previously known as monkeypox, on Monday, just days after the World Health Organization declared the disease a global health emergency.

The Philippines Department of Health, in a statement announcing the case, did not say whether the patient was infected with Clade Ib, the newer and potentially more deadly version of the mpox virus that is dominant now in the Democratic Republic of Congo, driving a rise in cases there.

It was an older strain, Clade IIb, that caused a worldwide outbreak of mpox in 2022.

Last Thursday — a day after the W.H.O. declaration of a global emergency — officials in Sweden revealed that a patient there was the first person outside of Africa to be diagnosed with the new strain, setting off fears of a much wider spread. Also on Thursday, Pakistan announced a case of mpox but said it was not yet clear which strain of the disease was involved.

Here is what we know.

The case in the Philippines

The patient is a 33-year-old Filipino man with no travel history outside of the country, whose mpox infection was confirmed and reported on Sunday to the Department of Health, the department said.

The man became sick more than a week ago, first with a fever, “followed four days later by findings of a distinct rash on the face, back, nape, trunk, groin, as well as palms and soles,” the department said. The patient was seen in a government hospital, where samples of his skin lesions were taken to test for genetic evidence of the virus.

The Philippines’ secretary of health, Dr. Teodoro J. Herbosa, discouraged public panic by emphasizing that officials were working to make testing convenient. “Our health system is working,” he said in a statement, “we can handle the situation and will keep the public well-informed.”

The latest case is only the 10th ever confirmed infection with mpox in the country, and all previous cases were isolated and patients have since recovered, the department said.

Mpox and its spread

Mpox is a virus endemic to Central and Western Africa. It is similar to smallpox but less contagious, and spreads primarily through close contact with infected animals or people, or the consumption of contaminated meat. It can also be spread through sexual contact or transmitted in utero to a fetus.

The disease’s rapid spread in 2022 led the World Health Organization to declare the mpox epidemic a global health emergency in July of that year, and infections were detected in over 70 countries that had never previously reported the disease. Since then, it has affected nearly 100,000 people in 116 countries.

The outbreak has largely subsided in Europe, Asia and the Americas, but it has not been eradicated — there have been hundreds of cases in the United States this year. At the same time, it has worsened in parts of Africa this year, leading the W.H.O. to declare once again that mpox is a global health emergency.

Smallpox vaccination, which was nearly universal half a century ago, gives a high degree of resistance to mpox infection. But smallpox was declared eradicated in 1980, and since then few people have received the vaccine.

Fever, headache, muscle aches and a blistering rash that progresses to pustules, which eventually scab over, are common signs of the disease. Symptoms can last two to four weeks, and treatment relies heavily on supportive care and alleviating symptoms.

How is this outbreak different?

The 2022 outbreak was primarily a version of mpox spread through sexual contact, and men who had sex with men were deemed most at risk . The spread was curbed through a combination of vaccinations and behavioral change, though health agencies like the W.H.O. and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have reported that new infections were still occurring this year.

In 2022 and 2023, there was a push to inoculate people who were at risk, particularly men who had sex with men, but the C.D.C. reported that most people in that group were not vaccinated.

The newer mpox strain that has been spreading in Congo has a death rate of 3 percent, much higher than the 0.2 percent death rate observed in the 2022 outbreak, and the populations most at risk appear to be different.

Women and children are most affected this time, according to Save the Children , an international charity, and doctors have reported treating entire families.

Eve Sampson is a reporter covering international news and a member of the 2024-25 Times Fellowship class, a program for journalists early in their careers. More about Eve Sampson