France travel checklist
Visa notes, plug type, eSIM picks, packing rules, and weather in one place.
Currency
EUR
Language
French
Power
Plug types C, E, 230V / 50Hz.
Time zone
CET (UTC+1)
Power banks
Under 100Wh allowed in carry-on; 100-160Wh needs airline approval; Up to 2 units.
France travel checklist overview
Fast planning
The France travel checklist brings together entry rules, power standards, and seasonal advice for both cities and countryside.
What to expect
Expect 230V outlets, a mix of card and cash payments, and peak travel in summer and major holidays.
Local emphasis
Reservations for trains and museums often sell out during high season, so book key dates early.
Local essentials
What locals use
- Transit card: Navigo (Paris)
- Main airports: CDG, ORY, NCE
- Emergency number: 112
- City climate notes: Paris is mild in spring and fall; the south is hotter and drier in summer; the Alps are cold and snowy in winter.
- Voltage differences: Voltage is consistent nationwide at 230V / 50Hz.
Local insight
France is easy to navigate by rail, so build your trip around TGV lines and reserve seats in advance. Paris is dense and walkable, while the countryside favors car rentals for small villages and wineries. Cafes run on slower rhythms than North America, so plan meals with time to spare. Weather shifts quickly near the Atlantic coast, so a light rain shell helps even in summer.
Entry essentials
đ Visa & entry
- Schengen visa or visa-free entry for short stays
- Passport validity for the duration of stay
- Proof of accommodation may be requested
đ Power & charging
- Type C/E plugs, 230V power
- Pack an EU adapter for most devices
- High-watt devices need 220-240V support
đą eSIM & data
- Coverage is strong in cities and main rail corridors
- Short trips can use 3-5GB plans
- Use roaming or eSIM for cross-border travel
đŗ Payments
- Cards accepted widely, but small shops may prefer cash
- Contactless payments are common
- Keep small change for cafes and transit
Getting around, safety, and best seasons
đ Transportation
- Metro and regional trains cover most cities
- Book high-speed rail early for lower fares
- Walking is practical in city centers
đĄī¸ Safety
- Emergency number is 112
- Watch for pickpockets in tourist zones
- Use licensed taxis or app-based rides at night
đ¤ī¸ Best seasons
- April to June has mild weather and fewer crowds
- July and August are busy and hot in cities
- September offers comfortable temperatures for sightseeing
Planning checklist
France travel checklist tools to use
Power bank rules
Under 100Wh allowed in carry-on; 100-160Wh needs airline approval; Up to 2 units.
Open tool âVisa and entry snapshot
| Passport | Status | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| United States | visa-free | 90 days | Schengen area - 90 days within 180 day period. |
| United Kingdom | visa-free | 90 days | Post-Brexit: 90 days in any 180-day period in Schengen area. |
| Australia | Check | Open visa tool for full rules. |
| Japan | Check | Open visa tool for full rules. |
Best eSIM picks for France
Airalo
3GB for 30 days âĸ $13 âĸ 4G/5G
Nomad
3GB for 30 days âĸ $16 âĸ 4G/LTE
Weather and packing advice
Best weather months around Paris:
- August: 25°C / 16°C, 46mm rain
- June: 23°C / 14°C, 55mm rain
- September: 21°C / 13°C, 54mm rain
FAQ
Many passports can enter France visa-free for short stays, while others need a Schengen visa.
France uses type C and E plugs with 230V / 50Hz power.
Yes, eSIMs work well in major cities and along major transport routes.
Other destinations
Last updated: 2025-02-01. Always confirm critical rules with official sources.