Flights to France

No, but you may need a visa waiver. By the end of 2022, the ETIAS visa waiver system will go into place for American citizens, which will mean you’ll need to apply online for a visa waiver before traveling to France or anywhere in the Schengen region.

Yes, France is generally quite safe to visit—just as safe as other major cities in Western Europe, like London and Rome. However, as in any big city, you should take precautions like avoiding walking alone or in unfamiliar areas at night and being aware of your surroundings and belongings, particularly in crowded tourist areas. Pickpockets are likely the main concern you’ll have to think about regarding safety, so don’t carry too many valuables and keep your things close to you.

French culture comes with many different rules for manners and good etiquette than what you may be used to in the US, so don’t be offended if someone seems rude or inattentive—they’re likely being polite (in French!). When you enter a restaurant, cafe, hotel, store or the like, greet people with a polite “Bonjour Madame/Monsieur.” A polite greeting and the effort to at least speak a few basic French phrases will go a long way. Don’t expect speedy service at restaurants and cafes, as it’s considered polite not to rush people and allow everyone plenty of time while eating or enjoying a morning coffee. With that being said, it’s sometimes considered impolite to ask for food to-go, so watch and see what others are doing before asking for a to-go box at the end of the meal.

Bonjour: Hello.

Merci: Thank you.

Au revoir: Goodbye

Je voudrais un….: I would like a….

Parlez-vous français/anglais?: Do you speak French/English?

Combien ça coûte?: How much is it?