Travel Safely in France: Your Comprehensive Guide

France, a country celebrated for its rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture, attracts millions of visitors each year. However, like any popular travel destination, it’s essential to be aware of potential risks and take necessary precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. This guide provides comprehensive information and advice for travelers to navigate France safely, covering everything from terrorism threats to petty crime and health considerations.

Understanding Risk Levels in France

France – Exercise a High Degree of Caution

Travelers to France are advised to exercise a high degree of caution due to the ongoing elevated threat of terrorism. This advisory is in place to encourage vigilance and preparedness while exploring this beautiful country.

Safety and Security in France

Terrorism: An Ongoing Threat

Terrorism remains a significant concern in Europe, and France has unfortunately been a target of several attacks in recent years. Both opportunistic and premeditated attacks have occurred, resulting in casualties and injuries. It’s crucial to acknowledge that further attacks are likely and to remain vigilant throughout your visit.

Vigipirate Plan: France’s National Security Alert System

The French government has implemented the Vigipirate plan, a national security alert system designed to protect the population, infrastructure, and institutions from terrorist threats. This plan involves a 3-level public alert system, currently set at level 3, “urgence attentat” (attack emergency). This signifies a high level of alert and potential for imminent attacks. Stay informed about any changes in the threat level through official government channels and local media.

Vigipirate plan – Government of France (in French)

Operation Sentinelle: Military Presence in Public Spaces

Operation Sentinelle is part of France’s security measures, deploying military personnel in public areas to patrol and deter terrorist activities. You can expect to see an increased military and police presence, particularly in strategic locations such as:

Transportation hubs (airports, train stations)
Public spaces
Tourist hotspots, especially in Paris

This enhanced security presence is a preventative measure, but it’s still important for travelers to remain aware and cautious.

Terrorist attacks can occur in various locations, and potential targets may include:

Government and local authority buildings
Schools and universities
Places of worship
Cultural venues (museums, theaters, concert halls, galleries)
Transportation hubs and networks
Public areas frequented by tourists (attractions, monuments, restaurants, cafes, shopping centers, markets, hotels)

To enhance your safety while in France:

Maintain situational awareness: Always be mindful of your surroundings in public places.
Be vigilant at gatherings: Exercise extra caution at large events like sporting events, religious celebrations, and public festivals.

Useful Links for Terrorism Safety

Crime in France: Petty and Violent

While France is generally safe, crime, particularly petty crime, is a concern, especially in tourist-heavy areas.

Petty Crime: Pickpocketing and Theft

Petty crimes such as pickpocketing, purse snatching, and mobile phone theft are common, especially targeting tourists. Thieves are often highly skilled and operate in groups, sometimes involving minors. They employ distraction techniques to steal belongings.

Public transportation is a frequent location for petty crime, particularly:

Paris Metro
Île-de-France RER lines (connecting Paris to suburbs)
International train routes (Paris-Brussels-Amsterdam, Paris-London)

Busy areas and tourist sites are hotspots for thieves, including:

Popular tourist attractions
Department stores
Restaurant patios
Hotel lobbies
Parks
Transportation hubs

Protect yourself from petty crime:

Secure your belongings: Keep passports and travel documents in a safe place, ideally hidden and close to your body.
Minimize valuables: Avoid carrying large amounts of cash or unnecessary valuables.
Avoid walking alone at night: Especially in unfamiliar areas.
Be aware in crowded areas: Pay close attention to your surroundings in tourist hotspots.
Be cautious at ATMs: Exercise extra vigilance when withdrawing cash.
Keep passport copies: Store a photocopy of your passport separately from the original.

Lost or stolen belongings abroad

Violent Crime: Though Less Common

Violent crime is less frequent than petty crime but does occur. Tourists can be targets of violent attacks, often by groups of young people intending to rob them. These attacks tend to happen:

Near major tourist attractions
Close to railway stations
On RER trains in the Île-de-France region

Assaults can also occur outside nightclubs and in isolated areas at night.

Residential Break-ins: Cities and Coastal Areas

Residential break-ins, targeting homes and vacation rentals, occur, particularly in major cities and coastal regions.

Protect your accommodation:

Be vigilant with strangers: Exercise caution when approached by unfamiliar individuals.
Secure belongings: Ensure passports and travel documents are always secure.
Avoid displaying wealth: Refrain from showing signs of affluence or carrying large sums of cash.
Limit phone use in public transport: Stay aware of your surroundings and avoid attracting attention by excessive phone use.
Separate cards and cash: Don’t keep all credit/debit cards and cash in one place.
Never leave bags unattended.
Choose secure accommodation: Ensure your lodging is well-secured, and always lock doors and windows, especially at night and when leaving.

Vehicle Crime: Break-ins and Thefts

Vehicle break-ins are common, with theft of parked cars and their contents prevalent, especially on southern French beach roads and highway rest stops, particularly during peak travel seasons like summer. Rental cars are often targeted.

Vehicle safety tips:

Never leave valuables in sight: Ensure nothing of value is visible inside the vehicle.
Use secure parking: Opt for well-lit and secure parking facilities.
Be vigilant with rental cars: Rental vehicles are prime targets for thieves.

Drivers may be tricked into stopping by thieves using various ploys, such as obstructing the road, flashing headlights, or pretending there’s a flat tire. Once stopped, thieves may steal bags or valuables.

Be wary of signals to stop: Be cautious of anyone waving you down on the highway.
Be vigilant at traffic lights: Bag snatching from passenger seats by scooter thieves is common.
Keep windows closed and doors locked: At all times while driving.

If You Become a Victim of Crime

If you are a victim of theft, report it to the nearest police station immediately. Obtain a copy of the police report, as it will be needed for insurance claims. In the Paris Metro, a metro officer can direct you to the nearest police station.

For minor property theft, you can file an online pre-complaint before going to the police station, potentially speeding up the process.

Useful Links for Crime and Safety

Bomb Threats: Increased Alert

Since October 2023, France has experienced an increase in bomb threats targeting public places.

Bomb threats and hoaxes can affect various locations:

Tourist areas
Shopping centers
Transportation hubs
Government facilities
Schools
Religious institutions

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

Fraud: Financial and Cyber Risks

Credit Card and ATM Fraud

Credit card and ATM fraud is a risk in France.

Protect your financial transactions:

Be attentive when cards are handled: Pay close attention if others are handling your credit or debit cards.
Use secure ATMs: Prefer ATMs in public areas or inside banks or businesses.
Avoid suspicious card readers: Be wary of card readers with unusual features.
Shield your PIN: Cover the keypad when entering your PIN at ATMs and POS terminals.
Monitor account statements: Regularly check for unauthorized transactions.

Cybercrime: Online Threats

Cybercrime and online extortion, including phishing scams, are prevalent. Public Wi-Fi networks can be compromised to steal personal data. Cybercriminals may use fraudulent communications promising deals or free tickets to deceive you.

Cybersecurity precautions:

Use secure Wi-Fi: Avoid unsecure public Wi-Fi networks.
Carry your own charging equipment: Use USB adaptors or battery packs instead of public charging stations.
Shop online securely: Only make online purchases from secure and official websites.
Be cautious on social media: Exercise caution when sharing personal information or photos online.
Be wary of online acquaintances: Be cautious of overly interested online contacts.
Meet in safe locations: Always meet new online acquaintances in secure, public places.

Useful Links for Fraud Prevention

Demonstrations: Frequent and Potentially Disruptive

Demonstrations are frequent in France, often planned but sometimes spontaneous and unauthorized. Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent unexpectedly and disrupt traffic and public transportation. Radical activists may employ aggressive tactics, leading to police intervention with tear gas.

Safety during demonstrations:

Avoid demonstration areas: Stay away from locations where demonstrations or large gatherings are occurring.
Follow local authority instructions.
Monitor local media: Stay informed about ongoing demonstrations.

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Strikes: Potential Travel Disruptions

Strikes, especially in key sectors like transportation, occur regularly and can disrupt travel plans and public services.

Prepare for strikes:

Consult local media: Stay informed about potential strikes affecting your travel or stay.
Plan extra travel time: If transport strikes occur, allow extra time to reach your destinations.

Water Safety: Swimming and Boating

Swimming Safety: Coastal Waters

Coastal waters can be dangerous. Always heed warning flags on beaches.

Beach safety flags in France:

Green: Calm waters, swimming allowed.
Yellow: Agitated waters, swim with caution.
Red: Dangerous waters, swimming prohibited.
Purple: Contaminated water or dangerous marine life, swimming prohibited.

Be cautious on shores in autumn and winter due to unpredictable waves and strong undertows.

Avoid beaches during severe weather warnings.
Watch for cliff erosion signs.
Don’t dive into unknown waters: Hidden rocks and shallow depths are hazards.
Exercise caution and follow local advice.

Recreational Boating Safety

If boating:

Know boat capacity: Don’t exceed passenger or weight limits.
Know navigation rules.
Practice safe boating: Follow safety guidelines for all water activities.
Equip with VHF radio: Carry a VHF marine radio for emergencies.
Be prepared for emergencies.

For maritime emergencies, contact the Regional Operational Surveillance and Rescue Centres (CROSS) via VHF channel 16 or by dialing 196.

Useful Links for Water Safety

Mountain Activities: Hiking and Skiing Risks

Mountain activities like hiking and skiing can be dangerous, especially if unprepared. Trails may be unmarked, and weather can change rapidly, even in summer. Heavy winter snowfall can make villages and ski centers inaccessible, and avalanches pose a fatal risk.

Mountain safety guidelines:

Never go alone: Hike or ski with companions and stay together.
Get travel insurance: Ensure it covers helicopter rescue and medical evacuation.
Be physically fit: Ensure you are in adequate physical condition for your planned activities.
Stay on marked trails/slopes.
Be properly equipped.
Stay informed about weather conditions.
Inform someone of your itinerary.
Know altitude sickness symptoms.
Get detailed activity and environment information beforehand.

Useful Links for Mountain Safety

Road Safety in France

French roads are generally well-maintained. Drive carefully and adhere to traffic laws.

Public Transportation: Reliable but Watchful

Urban and intercity public transportation is reliable. Validate your tickets and keep them until your journey’s end, as authorities conduct regular checks and fines are issued for invalid tickets.

Taxis: Avoid Illegal Operators

Illegal taxis operate at Paris airports and train stations, charging inflated fares.

Taxi safety tips:

Ignore solicitations: Disregard people offering taxi services as you exit airports or stations.
Use official taxis or ride-sharing apps.
Don’t share taxis with strangers.

Air Travel: Domestic Airline Safety

Assessments on foreign domestic airline safety standards are not provided.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Entry and Exit Requirements for France

Starting November 1, 2024, for six months, France will conduct controls at all land border crossings. Be prepared to present travel documents if requested by local authorities.

Entry and exit regulations are determined by each country. The Canadian government cannot intervene if you don’t meet destination requirements. Information on this page is from French authorities and can change. Verify details with Foreign Representatives in Canada.

Schengen Area: Visa-Free Travel

France is part of the Schengen Area. Canadian citizens don’t need visas for stays up to 90 days within a 180-day period within the Schengen Area. Longer stays require a visa.

Useful Links for Schengen Area Travel

Temporary Border Controls: Immigration Checks

France has reintroduced internal border controls at certain entry points. Expect immigration checks even when arriving from other Schengen countries.

Passport Requirements: Validity

Passport requirements depend on your passport type. Check with your transportation company about passport validity rules, as they might be stricter than entry rules.

Regular Canadian Passport

Your passport must be valid for at least 3 months beyond your planned departure date from the Schengen Area.

Passport for Official Travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” Gender Identifier

While Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, entry or transit through other countries isn’t guaranteed as some may not recognize it. Check with the destination’s foreign representative before traveling.

Useful Links for Passport Information

Visas for France

Tourist visa: Not required for stays up to 90 days in 180 days.
Long-stay/residency visa: Required for stays over 90 days.
Work permit: Required.
Student visa: Required for stays over 90 days.

Useful Links for Visa Information

Other Entry Requirements: Proof of Funds

Customs officials may request to see return/onward tickets and proof of sufficient funds for your stay.

Children and Travel: Parental Authorization

To leave France, children under 18 residing in France must be with at least one parent. Unaccompanied children need:

Parental authorization to leave, signed by a parent.
Photocopy of the signing parent’s ID.

Useful Links for Children and Travel

Yellow Fever Entry Requirements

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

Health in France: Staying Healthy

Relevant Travel Health Notices

This section provides health risk information and advice for travelers. Consult a healthcare provider or travel health clinic ideally 6 weeks before your trip for personalized health advice.

Routine Vaccines: Ensure Up-to-Date

Ensure routine vaccinations are current, including MMR, diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella, meningococcal disease, seasonal flu, and others.

Provincial and Territorial Immunization Information

Pre-Travel Vaccines and Medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases via vaccines or medications. Discuss with a health provider which are right for you.

Yellow Fever

Risk: No risk in France.
Entry Requirement: No proof of vaccination needed.
Recommendation: Vaccination not recommended.

About Yellow Fever
Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada

Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE)

Risk in some areas. Viral disease affecting the nervous system, spread by tick bites or unpasteurized dairy.
Higher risk April-November, especially for hikers and campers in forests.
Protection: Protect yourself from tick bites. Vaccine not available in Canada, potentially available in France.

Rabies

Present in some wildlife, including bats. Deadly disease spread through bites or scratches from infected animals.
If bitten or scratched, wash the wound and seek medical attention immediately.
Rabies vaccination may be recommended for those working with wildlife.

Measles

Highly contagious viral disease, spreads easily.
Anyone unprotected is at risk.
Ensure you are fully protected against measles before travel.

Hepatitis B

Risk in all destinations. Viral liver disease spread through blood and body fluids.
Higher risk for those exposed to blood/body fluids (sexual contact, medical treatment, needles, tattoos).
Hepatitis B vaccination recommended for all travelers. Prevent hepatitis B by practicing safe sex and using sterile equipment.

COVID-19

Infectious viral disease, spreads easily.
Complete a COVID-19 vaccine series before travel. Vaccines are effective at preventing severe illness.
Check destination COVID-19 entry/exit requirements. Ensure adequate protection against COVID-19.

Influenza (Flu)

Get a flu shot annually, ideally 2 weeks before travel. Get the flu shot.
Flu occurs worldwide. Seasons vary by hemisphere.
Spreads by coughs/sneezes or contaminated surfaces. Practice hand hygiene and wear a mask if symptomatic.

Safe Food and Water Precautions

Unsafe food or water can cause illness.

Food and water safety tips:

Eat safely prepared food: “Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it.”
Avoid water in freshwater sources: Avoid getting water in eyes, mouth, nose when swimming in fresh water, especially after rain.
Don’t swallow water: Avoid swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming.

Eat and drink safely abroad

Tick and Insect Bite Prevention

Diseases spread by ticks and insects (mosquitoes, fleas, flies).

Protect against bites:

Use bug spray: Apply approved insect repellent on exposed skin.
Wear protective clothing: Wear light-colored, loose, tightly woven clothing.
Wear socks and closed shoes.
Use mosquito netting: Sleep under mosquito netting if outdoors or in non-enclosed spaces.
Check for ticks: Do full body tick checks after outdoor activities.

Insect bite and pest prevention
Personal insect repellents

Dengue

Sporadic risk in France. Viral disease from mosquito bites.
Flu-like symptoms, can be severe.
Risk varies seasonally and regionally.
Mosquitoes bite during daytime, especially sunrise/sunset.
Protect from bites. No dengue vaccine available in Canada.

Dengue

Zika Virus

Zika risk in France. Spread by mosquito bites and sexually transmitted. Can cause birth defects.
Prevent mosquito bites at all times.
Use condoms or avoid sex, especially if pregnant.
Pregnant women should discuss risks with healthcare providers and consider postponing travel.

Zika virus: Pregnant or planning a pregnancy.

Animal Precautions

Infections like rabies and bird flu can spread from animals to humans.

Avoid animal contact to reduce risk:

Avoid stray dogs, livestock, monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, bats.
Avoid undercooked meat.
Supervise children to prevent animal contact.

Person-to-Person Infections

Reduce the risk of respiratory infections (flu, COVID-19):

Stay home if sick.
Wear a mask in crowded settings.
Wash hands frequently.
Cover coughs and sneezes.

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)
Clean your hands to help reduce the spread of infectious diseases
Respiratory infectious diseases: How to reduce the spread with personal protective measures

Reduce STI, HIV, and mpox risks:

Consider mpox vaccination.
Limit sexual partners.
Use condoms and dental dams.

Mpox vaccines
Sexual health and travel
HIV and AIDS: Travel health advice

Medical Services and Facilities: Excellent Care

Healthcare in France is excellent and widely available, but upfront payment may be required. Get travel insurance covering medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Health and safety outside Canada

Keep in Mind: Traveler Responsibility

Travel decisions and personal safety are the traveler’s sole responsibility. Be prepared, and don’t expect Canadian healthcare standards. Pack a travel health kit, especially outside major cities.

Laws and Culture in France: Respecting Local Norms

Abide by local laws. Learn what to do if you are arrested or detained abroad.

Transfer to a Canadian Prison

Canada and France are part of the Convention on the Transfer of Sentenced Persons, allowing Canadians imprisoned in France to request transfer to a Canadian prison to complete their sentence, subject to approval by both countries. This is a lengthy process with no guaranteed outcome.

Drugs: Severe Penalties

Penalties for drug possession, use, or trafficking are severe, including jail sentences and heavy fines.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

Identity Checks: Carry ID

Identity checks are possible in France. Always carry valid ID like a driver’s license, passport, or a copy.

Keep photocopies or digital copies of:

Passport identification page
Birth certificate
Canadian citizenship card
Driver’s license

Store originals and copies separately.

Concealing Your Face: Illegal in Public

It is illegal to cover your face in public places in France, including airport arrival areas. Violators face high fines, with no exemptions for tourists or religious reasons.

Useful Links for Laws and Culture

Dual Citizenship: Potential Limitations

Dual citizenship is recognized in France. If you are a dual Canadian-French citizen, Canadian consular services might be limited, and different entry/exit requirements may apply.

Dual citizens

International Child Abduction: Hague Convention

The Hague Convention on International Child Abduction applies between Canada and France, assisting parents in returning children wrongfully removed or retained in violation of custody rights.

If your child is taken to or held in France:

Act quickly.
Contact your provincial/territorial Central Authority for Hague Convention application information.
Consult lawyers in Canada and France.
Report to the nearest Canadian government office or Global Affairs Canada’s Vulnerable Children’s Consular Unit.

Canadian officials cannot intervene in private legal or judicial matters.

Useful Links for Child Abduction Issues

Drones: Regulations Apply

Drone flying is regulated for recreational and commercial use. Drone registration is required across the EU. Non-compliance can lead to fines and drone confiscation.

Useful Links for Drone Regulations

Driving in France: Requirements and Rules

You must be 18+ to drive in France. An International Driving Permit is recommended, and you can drive with a Canadian license for up to 1 year. Longer stays require exchanging your Canadian license for a French one. Numerous traffic cameras enforce regulations, and violations can result in heavy fines and license confiscation. Fines typically must be paid within 3 days.

Reflective vests and warning triangles are mandatory in vehicles. Winter tires or chains are required in some mountainous areas from November 1 to March 31.

Priority to the Right: Traffic Rule

The “priority to the right” rule is in effect. Yield to vehicles from the right at intersections, even on minor roads. Roundabout traffic generally has priority.

Low-Emission Zones: Restrictions

Some cities have low-emission zones restricting access to vehicles not meeting certain environmental standards. Permits may be required.

Useful Links for Driving Information

Money: Euro Currency

The currency is the euro (EUR). Declare cash amounts of €10,000 or more (or equivalent) to customs when entering or leaving the EU, including various forms of currency and assets. This doesn’t apply to EU travel or transit to non-EU countries.

EU cash controls – European Commission

Natural Disasters and Climate in France

Avalanches: Mountain Risk

Avalanche risk exists in mountainous areas and can be fatal. Check weather and safety conditions and heed advice if skiing or climbing.

Useful Links for Avalanche Safety

Flooding: Seasonal Risk

Seasonal flooding is a risk, especially along major rivers, disrupting travel and services. The French government’s Vigicrues service provides flood forecasting.

Follow local authority instructions.
Stay updated on weather forecasts.

Flooding risk – Vigicrues

Forest and Maquis Fires: Summer Hazard

Forest and maquis fires occur often in summer, particularly on the Mediterranean coast and Corsica, degrading air quality. Smoking is banned in woods and forests during high-risk periods.

In case of fire:

Avoid affected areas, especially if you have respiratory issues.
Follow local authority advice.
Monitor local media.

Forest weather – Météo France (in French)

This comprehensive guide aims to help you travel safely in France. By staying informed and taking necessary precautions, you can minimize risks and fully enjoy your French adventure. Remember to always prioritize your safety and well-being while exploring this remarkable country.