Destinations / France
Here's everything you need to know — currency, tipping, language, safety, and the tips that actually matter.
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Language
French
Emergency
112
Plug Type
Type C / Type E (two round prongs)
Voltage
230V / 50Hz
Driving Side
Right
Tap Water
Safe to drink from the tap
U.S. Embassy
Paris: +33 1 43 12 22 22
Service is included (service compris). Round up or leave 1-2€ for good service.
Round up to the nearest euro.
€1-2 per bag for porters. €2-3/day for housekeeping at nice hotels.
Round up or leave small change. No per-drink tipping.
| English | French | Pronunciation |
|---|---|---|
| Hello | Bonjour | bohn-ZHOOR |
| Thank you | Merci | mehr-SEE |
| Please | S'il vous plaît | seel voo PLEH |
| Do you speak English? | Parlez-vous anglais? | par-LAY voo ahn-GLEH |
Always say 'Bonjour' when entering a shop — it's considered rude not to
Lunch is the main meal and restaurants close between lunch and dinner (2-7pm)
Don't ask for substitutions or modifications at restaurants — it won't go well
The Métro is efficient but watch for pickpockets at tourist stations
Most shops close on Sundays
Dress a notch above what you'd wear at home — the French notice
Bring a reusable water bottle (public fountains are everywhere in Paris)
A scarf is useful year-round for churches and chilly evenings
A Type C or Type E power adapter
Currency, tipping, phrases, emergency info, and city guides for France — offline and instant.