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France is a stunning country and should be at the top of your list of places to visit. It’s full of cultural attractions, renowned food and wine, and alluring landscapes.
Climate in France
Summers are warm, with some thunderstorms, and winters are cold. Temperatures can drop below 0 degrees Celsius and, in the mountains, are frequently accompanied by snow. In the South, the climate is Mediterranean. Summers are hot and winters mild and dry.
Time Difference in France
France is 1 hour ahead of United Kingdom
Language in France
French, the official language, is the first language of 88% of the population. Most of those who speak minority languages also speak French, as the minority languages are given no legal recognition.
Commonly Used Words in France
Hello = Bonjour
Goodbye = Au revoir
Thank you = Merci
Please = S’il vous plaît
Yes = Oui
No = Non
Which Plug Do I Need in France?
For France there are two associated plug types, types C and E. France operates on a 230V supply voltage and 50Hz.
What is The Local Currency in France?
Euro
£100 = €115.61 (Jan 2024)
What Credit Cards Can I Use in France?
All major credit cards are accepted in the country.
Tipping in France
Tips are not included in the overall price of our treks and adventure trips, but most trekkers do tip their guides, porters, and cooks on the penultimate or final day of the trip. Tipping is a universal custom in adventure travel, but is not obligatory, so you should never feel forced into it, but it is a tradition on the trail. Tipping policies can be found through the Vamoos app for each individual trip.
Approximate Food & Drink Prices in France (January 2024)
Coke/Pepsi 2.71 €
Water 1.82 €
Coffee 2.94 €
Beer 6.00 €
Inexpensive Meal 15.00 €
Passport Validity for France
If you are planning to travel to an EU country (except Ireland), or Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Andorra, Monaco, San Marino or Vatican City, follow the Schengen area passport requirements.
Your passport must be:
- issued less than 10 years before the date you enter the country (check the ‘date of issue’)
- valid for at least 3 months after the day you plan to leave (check the ‘expiry date’)
Check your passport meets these requirements before you travel. If your passport was issued before 1 October 2018, extra months may have been added to its expiry date.
Contact the French Embassy in the UK if you think that your passport does not meet both these requirements. Renew your passport if you need to.
Do I Need a Visa for France? (January 2024)
You can travel to countries in the Schengen area, which France is part of, for up to 90 days in any 180-day period without a visa. This applies if you travel:
- as a tourist
- to visit family or friends
- to attend business meetings, cultural or sports events
- for short-term studies or training
If you are travelling to France and other Schengen countries without a visa, make sure your whole visit is within the 90-day limit. Visits to Schengen countries within the previous 180 days before you travel count towards your 90 days.
COVID-19 Requirements for France? (January 2024)
Countries may restrict travel or bring in rules at short notice. Check with your travel company or airline for changes.
Visit TravelHealthPro (from the UK’s National Travel Health Network and Centre) for general COVID-19 advice for travellers.
Public spaces
You’re strongly recommended to wear a face mask in health settings. In some areas, people aged 6 and above may need to wear a face mask.
