France Travel Guide

🇺🇸 US State Department Advisory

Exercise increased caution in France due to terrorism and unrest . Pickpocketing and phone thefts are common, especially in crowded places. Terrorist groups continue to plan possible attacks in France and may attack with little to no warning. There are also regular, peaceful protests and strikes in Paris and other cities throughout France. Pickpocketing and phone thefts are frequent crimes. They can occur in crowded areas such as: Airports Subways and train cars Tourist attractions Train station...

✈️ Planning a Trip?

Despite advisories, many travelers visit France safely every year. Check our guides for practical tips:

🚨 Emergency Numbers

🏥 Healthcare Summary

Access: easy Hours: Most pharmacies open 9am-8pm weekdays, reduced hours on weekends. Some pharmacies in large cities are open 24/7. Look for the green cross sign. Prescription rules: EU/Schengen prescriptions are accepted in France. Non-EU prescriptions require a French doctor's consultation. Many common medications in the US require prescriptions here. 💡 Tips Pharmacies (pharmacie) are widely available. Many medications require a prescription. Some OTC items like basic painkillers, antiseptics, and eye drops are available without prescription. Pharmacists are knowledgeable and can advise on minor ailments.

Insurance: ⚠️ Strongly recommended Average cost: $40-70/week 💡 Tip For EU citizens, the EHIC provides access to state healthcare at reduced cost. For non-EU citizens, travel insurance with comprehensive medical coverage is essential. French hospitals may bill directly or require payment upfront. 💡 Tip For EU citizens, the EHIC provides access to state healthcare at reduced cost. For non-EU citizens, travel insurance with comprehensive medical coverage is essential. French hospitals may bill directly or require payment upfront.

💊 Medication Restrictions

France follows EU Schengen rules for personal medication imports. Non-EU travelers may carry up to 3 months' supply of prescribed medication in original packaging with a doctor's certificate. For narcotics and psychotropic substances, a Schengen certificate signed by a doctor and validated by your national health authority is required. Carry prescriptions using international nonproprietary names (INN/generic names) since French pharmacists may not recognize foreign brand names.

• Benzodiazepines (Xanax, Valium) — RESTRICTED: Prescription-only (Liste I or II). EU/EEA travelers need Schengen certificate. Non-EU travelers should carry doctor's letter translated into French. Max 3 months' personal supply.
• Adderall / amphetamines — RESTRICTED: Amphetamines are stupéfiants (narcotics). Adderall is not approved in France; methylphenidate is the standard ADHD treatment. Travelers must have Schengen certificate (EU) or certified medical attestation (non-EU). Very strict enforcement.
• Cannabis / CBD — BANNED: France has some of the strictest cannabis laws in Western Europe. Recreational use is illegal; a 2020 reform introduced a €200 flat fine for simple possession. Medical cannabis pilot program began 2021 but remains very limited. CBD products with 0% THC were legalized after EU court ruling. Do not import any cannabis products.
• Methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta) — RESTRICTED: Classified as a stupéfiant (narcotic). Requires special prescription (ordonnance sécurisée) in France. Travelers need Schengen certificate (EU) or certified attestation. Maximum 30 days' supply.
• Codeine / opioids — RESTRICTED: Codeine was reclassified to prescription-only in 2017 (previously OTC in some combinations). Stronger opioids are stupéfiants with 28-day maximum prescriptions. Carry all documentation.

🙏 Cultural Tips

Tipping: Service is included by law in all restaurant bills (service compris). Additional tipping is not expected but leaving €1-3 for good service is appreciated. Tip hotel porters €1-2 per bag. Cafes: leave change from your coins.

Cultural taboos to avoid:

• Skipping 'Bonjour' when entering a shop, restaurant, or interacting with anyone
• Asking someone's salary, age, or political views (considered private)
• Pouring wine with your left hand (bad luck tradition)
• Putting bread upside down on the table (old superstition)
• Rushing through a meal — eating is a ritual, not a refueling stop

🎭 Tourist Scam Guides

Common scams to watch out for in France: