is it safe to travel to france in 2023

Places the U.S. Government Warns Not to Travel Right Now

You may want to reconsider traveling to these countries right now.

Do Not Travel to These Countries

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Crime, civil unrest and terrorism are common risk factors for countries that end up on the State Department's "Do Not Travel" advisory list.

In 2024, tourism across the globe is “well on track” to return to pre-pandemic levels, according to projections by UN Tourism.

Global conflicts and natural disasters , ranging from a series of coups across Africa to catastrophic earthquakes in the Middle East affected international travel patterns throughout 2023. Still, international tourist arrivals reached 87% of pre-pandemic levels in 2023, according to estimates by UN Tourism .

In January 2024 alone, about 4.6 million U.S. citizens left the country for international destinations, 17% higher than the same month in 2019, according to the International Trade Administration . But some destinations warrant more caution than others.

On Oct. 19, 2023, following the outbreak of war between Israel and Gaza and flaring tensions in the region, the U.S. State Department issued a worldwide caution advisory due to “increased tensions in various locations around the world, the potential for terrorist attacks, demonstrations or violent actions against U.S. citizens and interests.” Prior to this update, the most recent worldwide caution advisory was issued in 2022 after a U.S. strike killed Ayman al-Zawahiri, Osama bin Laden’s successor as leader of Al Qaeda, causing “a higher potential for anti-American violence.” The worldwide caution advisory remains in effect.

The U.S. State Department also issues individual travel advisory levels for more than 200 countries globally, continually updating them based on a variety of risk indicators such as health, terrorism and civil unrest. Travel advisory levels range from Level 1, which means exercise normal precautions, to Level 4, which means do not travel there.

About 10% of countries – 19 total – have a Level 4: “Do Not Travel” advisory as of Mar. 4. In Level 4 countries, the U.S. government may have “very limited ability” to step in should travelers’ safety or security be at risk, according to the State Department. Crime, civil unrest, kidnapping and terrorism are common risk factors associated with Level 4 countries.

So far in 2024, the State Department made changes to the existing Level 4 advisories for Myanmar, Iran and Gaza, and moved Niger and Lebanon off of the Level 4 list.

Places With a Level 4 Travel Advisory

These are the primary areas the U.S. government says not to travel to right now, in alphabetical order:

Jump to Place: Afghanistan Belarus Burkina Faso Central African Republic Myanmar (formerly Burma) Gaza Haiti Iran Iraq Libya Mali Mexico North Korea (Democratic People's Republic of Korea) Russia Somalia South Sudan Sudan Syria Ukraine Venezuela Yemen

Afghanistan: The Central Asian country is wrestling with “terrorism, risk of wrongful detention, kidnapping and crime,” according to the State Department. U.S. citizens are specifically at risk for wrongful detention and kidnapping. In 2022, the government reinstituted public floggings and executions, and women’s rights are disappearing under Taliban control. The U.S. Embassy in Kabul halted operations in August 2021. Since the Taliban took control , many forms of international aid have been halted . Meanwhile, in 2023, some of the year’s deadliest earthquakes killed more than 2,400 in Afghanistan while the country continues to face a years-long extreme drought.

Belarus: Belarus, which shares a western border with Russia and a southern border with Ukraine, has been flagged for “Belarusian authorities’ continued facilitation of Russia’s war against Ukraine, the buildup of Russian military forces in Belarus, the arbitrary enforcement of local laws, the potential of civil unrest, the risk of detention, and the Embassy’s limited ability to assist U.S. citizens residing in or traveling to Belarus.” The U.S. Embassy in Minsk halted operations in February 2022.

Burkina Faso: Terrorism, crime and kidnapping are plaguing this West African nation. Terrorist attacks may target hotels, restaurants and schools with little to no warning, and the East and Sahel regions of the country are under a state of emergency. In late November 2023, hundreds died in clashes between state security forces and rebels near the country’s border with Mali. In June, more than 2 million people in Burkina Faso were displaced due to “violence linked to al-Qaida and the Islamic State group.”

Central African Republic: While there have not been specific incidents of U.S. citizens targeted with violence or crime, violent crime and sudden closure of roads and borders is common. The advisory states that “Embassy Bangui’s limited capacity to provide support to U.S. citizens, crime, civil unrest, and kidnapping” is a factor in its assessment. Recent data from UNICEF suggests the country has the worst drinking water accessibility of all countries in 2022.

Myanmar (Formerly Burma): Armed conflict and civil unrest are the primary reasons to not travel to this Southeast Asian country, which experienced a military coup in early 2021. Limited health care resources, wrongful detentions and “areas with land mines and unexploded ordnance” are also listed as risk factors. After Ukraine and Israel, Myanmar had the highest conflict-related death toll in 2023.

Gaza : Hamas, a foreign terrorist organization as designated by the State Department, controls much of the Gaza Strip, which shares borders with both Israel and Egypt. On Oct. 7, 2023, Hamas fighters broke across the border into Israel, killing hundreds of civilians and soldiers in a brazen attack that stunned Israelis. On Oct. 10, Israel hit the Gaza Strip with “the fiercest air strikes in its 75-year conflict” according to Reuters . The conflict has since escalated into war between Israel and Hamas, with regular Israeli airstrikes leading to extensive civilian casualties in Gaza. As of mid-December, nearly 85% of Gaza’s population were displaced from their homes, according to UN estimates . The region continues to face shortages of food , water, electricity and medical supplies , with conditions deemed “far beyond a humanitarian crisis.” The State Department warns of terrorism and armed conflict within Gaza’s borders.

Haiti: In July 2023, the Department of State ordered all non-emergency U.S. government personnel and family members to leave the U.S. Embassy in Port-au-Prince in response to the increased risk of kidnapping and violent crime in the country , as well as armed conflict between gangs and police. The travel advisory states that cases of kidnapping “often involve ransom negotiations and U.S. citizen victims have been physically harmed during kidnappings.” The travel advisory also states that “U.S. citizens in Haiti should depart Haiti as soon as possible” given “the current security situation and infrastructure challenges.” A series of gang attacks in late September 2023 caused thousands to flee their homes, and many aid groups have been forced to cut or suspend operations amid escalating violence in recent months.

Iran: Terrorism, kidnapping and civil unrest are risk factors for all travelers to Iran, while U.S. citizens are specifically at risk for “arbitrary arrest.” U.S.-Iranian nationals such as students, journalists and business travelers have been arrested on charges of espionage and threatening national security. Executions in Iran rose sharply between 2021 and 2022, bringing the country’s total to nearly 580 people over the year, according to a report by Amnesty International released in May 2023.

Iraq: The State Department cites “terrorism, kidnapping, armed conflict [and] civil unrest” as cause for the country’s Level 4 distinction. Iraq’s northern borders, and its border with Syria, are especially dangerous. Since the escalation of conflict in neighboring Israel in October, there has been an increase in attacks against Iraqi military bases, which host U.S. troops and other international forces. In October 2023, non-emergency U.S. government personnel and eligible family members were ordered to leave the U.S. embassy in Baghdad.

Libya: Following the end of its dictatorship over a decade ago, Libya has been wrought with internal conflict between armed groups in the East and West. Armed conflict, civil unrest, crime, kidnapping and terrorism are all risk factors. U.S. citizens have been targets of kidnapping for ransom, with terrorists targeting hotels and airports frequented by Westerners. The U.S. Embassy in Tripoli halted operations in 2014. In mid-September 2023, floods, which some say were intensified by climate change , killed thousands in eastern Libya. Clashes between armed factions escalated across the country in the latter half of 2023, including in the capital city of Tripoli and in Benghazi.

Mali: After experiencing military coups in 2020 and 2021, crime, terrorism and kidnapping are all prevalent threats in this West African landlocked nation. In July 2022, non-emergency U.S. government employees and their families were ordered to leave the country due to higher risk of terrorist activity. A U.N. report in August 2023 said that military groups in the country, including both Mali security forces and possibly Russian Wagner mercenaries, were spreading terror through the use of violence against women and human rights abuses. Democratic elections were supposed to occur in February 2024, but Mali’s military junta postponed the plans indefinitely. In December, the U.N. officially ended a decade-long peacekeeping presence in the country, which had been among the agency’s deadliest missions, with hundreds of the mission personnel killed since 2013.

Mexico: Each state in Mexico is assessed separately for travel advisory levels. Six of the 32 states in Mexico are designated as Level 4: Colima, Guerrero, Michoacan, Sinaloa, Tamaulipas and Zacatecas. Crime and kidnapping are listed as the primary risk factors throughout the country. Nearly 112,000 people were missing across the country as of October, a number the U.N. has called “alarming.”

North Korea (Democratic People’s Republic of Korea): U.S. passports are not valid for travel “to, in, or through” this country, home to one of the world's longest-running dynastic dictatorships. The travel advisory states that the Level 4 distinction is due to “the continuing serious risk of arrest and long-term detention of U.S. nationals.” In July 2023, a U.S. soldier fled across the border into North Korea, where he is believed to be in North Korean custody, the first American detained in the North in nearly five years. He was returned to U.S. custody in September 2023.

Russia: The travel advisory for Russia cites its invasion of Ukraine , harassment of U.S. citizens by Russian government officials and arbitrary law enforcement as a few of the reasons for the Level 4 designation. Chechnya and Mount Elbrus are specifically listed as Level 4 regions. Terrorism, civil unrest, health, kidnapping and wrongful detention are all noted as risks.

Russia Invades Ukraine: A Timeline

Somalia: A severe drought resulting from five failed rainy seasons in a row killed 43,000 people in 2022, and caused a famine amid conflict with Islamist insurgents . Violent crime is common throughout Somalia , pirates frequent its coast off the Horn of Africa, and medical facilities, where they exist, have limited capacity. Crime, terrorism, civil unrest, health and kidnapping are all risk factors. In January 2024, some passengers aboard a U.N.-contracted helicopter were taken hostage by al-Shabaab militants after the vehicle crashed in central Somalia.

South Sudan: Crime, kidnapping and armed conflict are the primary risk factors for South Sudan, which separated from Sudan in 2011, making it the world’s newest country . Weapons are readily available, and travelers have been victims of sexual assault and armed robbery.

Sudan: The U.S. evacuated its embassy in Khartoum in April 2023, and the country closed its airspace due to the ongoing conflict in the country, only permitting humanitarian aid and evacuation efforts. Fighting has escalated in the region between two warring generals seeking to gain control after a military coup in 2021 ousted the country’s prime minister. Civil unrest is the primary risk factor for Africa’s third largest country by area. Crime, terrorism, kidnapping and armed conflict are also noted. The International Criminal Court began investigating alleged war crimes and violence against African ethnic groups in the country in 2023. Millions have fled their homes due to conflict, and the U.N. has said its efforts to provide aid have been hindered by a lack of support, safety and resources. As recently as December 2023, the United Nations warned of catastrophic famine , with millions of children at-risk for malnutrition .

Syria: The advisory states that “No part of Syria is safe from violence,” with terrorism, civil unrest, kidnapping, armed conflict and risk of unjust detention all potential risk factors. U.S. citizens are often a target for kidnappings and detention. The U.S. Embassy in Damascus halted operations in 2012. Fighting in neighboring Israel has escalated since October, and the conflict has spilled over into Syria, where the U.S. has carried out air strikes following drone and rocket attacks against American troops in Syria and Iraq, triggered by the Israel-Hamas war.

Ukraine: Russian setbacks in their invasion of Ukraine buoyed hopes in Ukraine in 2023. However, Ukraine is a Level 4 country due to Russia’s invasion, with crime and civil unrest also noted as risk factors. The country’s forces shot down two Russian fighter jets on Christmas Eve 2023, in a move Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said “sets the right mood for the entire year ahead.”

Venezuela: Human rights abuses and lack of health care plague this South American nation, which has been in a political crisis since 2014. In 2019, diplomatic personnel were withdrawn from the U.S. Embassy in Caracas. Threats in the country include crime, civil unrest, kidnapping, wrongful detention and poor health infrastructure.

Yemen: Six of the nine risk factors defined by the State Department – terrorism, civil unrest, health risks, kidnapping, armed conflict and landmines – are all present in Yemen. Despite private companies offering tourist visits to the Yemeni island of Socotra, the U.S. government argues those arranging such visits “are putting tourists in danger.” Civil war and cholera are also both present throughout the country. The U.S. Embassy in Sanaa halted operations in 2015. The country has experienced a relative lull in the civil war fighting, but as peace negotiations have gotten traction, flare ups in the fighting have jeopardized progress. Most recently, the U.S. and U.K. have carried out a series of airstrikes in the country, targeting Iran-backed Houthi sites.

Other Countries to Watch

Since Jan. 1, the State Department has updated travel advisories for 17 different countries as well as for the West Bank and Gaza, adding information about specific regions or risk factors, or simply renewing an existing advisory. Travel advisory levels can change based on several factors in a nation, such as increased civil unrest, policies that affect human rights or higher risks of unlawful detention.

The State Department has given about 25 countries an assessment of Level 3, meaning it recommends people “reconsider travel” to those destinations.

On Oct. 14, one week after the deadly Hamas attack on Israel, Israel and the West Bank were both moved from Level 2 to Level 3, while Gaza remains at Level 4. The region’s travel advisory was updated in November to reflect travel restrictions for certain government employees who have not already left the area, and it was updated again on Jan. 3.

Following the outbreak of the Israel-Hamas war in early October, the U.S. State Department raised Lebanon ’s travel advisory level from a Level 3 to a Level 4 level due to “the unpredictable security situation related to rocket, missile, and artillery exchanges” between Israel and Hezbollah or other militant groups. In December, the U.S. Embassy in Beirut returned to normal staffing and presence, and on Jan. 29, the country was moved back to Level 3. Crime, terrorism, armed conflict, civil unrest, kidnapping and unexploded landmines are listed as the country’s primary risk factors. However, the country’s borders with Syria and with Israel, as well as refugee settlements within Lebanon, are specifically noted as Level 4 regions.

China became a Level 3 country in late 2020, with an update in December 2022 citing “the surge in COVID-19 cases, arbitrary enforcement of local laws, and COVID-19-related restrictions” as the reason for the advisory. In June 2023, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (SAR) was moved from the Level 3 to the Level 2 list, but travelers are still advised to be cautious in the area due to “arbitrary enforcement of local laws.” Meanwhile, Macau remains at Level 3.

Following an attempted coup in August 2023, Niger was elevated to Level 4 in August and the Department of State ordered all non-emergency U.S. government personnel and family members to leave the U.S. Embassy in Niamey. In early January 2024, the overall risk level for the country was lowered back to Level 3. Despite the new classification, the State Department still asks non-emergency government personnel and eligible family members to depart the country.

In mid-December 2023 there was an explosion at Guinea’s main fuel depot which has since affected access to health care and basic goods and services. The country was subsequently designated a Level 3 nation after having previously been Level 2. Concerns about civil unrest, health, crime and fuel shortages impacting local infrastructure were listed as the primary risk factors contributing to the change.

Several Level 3 countries are among the worst countries for human trafficking, as designated by the State Department’s annual Trafficking in Persons Report . Level 3 countries on this list include Papua New Guinea, Guinea Bissau, China and Chad. There are also nine Level 4 countries designated as among the worst for human trafficking: Afghanistan, Belarus, Iran, Myanmar, North Korea, Russia, Syria, South Sudan and Venezuela.

Over 70 countries are currently at Level 2, meaning the State Department recommends travelers “exercise increased caution” when traveling to those destinations.

Botswana became the newest Level 2 country on Feb. 26 after having previously been Level 1, with crime noted as the primary risk factor.

France, which saw nationwide protests throughout 2023, has civil unrest and terrorism noted as risk factors for its Level 2 status, and Sweden’s Level 2 status is associated with risks of terrorism.

The Level 2 travel advisory for the Bahamas was updated in January to reflect water safety concerns. The advisory warns that “activities involving commercial recreational watercraft, including water tours, are not consistently regulated” and notes that government personnel are “not permitted to use independently operated jet-ski rentals on New Providence and Paradise Islands.” It also warns visitors to be mindful of sharks, weather and water conditions. The advisory also says that crime is a primary risk factor with gang-on-gang violence contributing to high homicide rates in some areas. Visitors are asked to “be vigilant” and to not physically resist robbery attempts.

Bangladesh 's Level 2 travel advisory was updated in October 2023 to add a note about the country’s general election , which took place Jan. 7, 2024. The advisory states “demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and escalate into violence.” The U.S. has since claimed the country’s election was not free nor fair.

In November 2023, several Level 2 travel advisories were updated with new cautionary information. The advisory for Ghana was updated to reflect threats against LGBTQI+ travelers specifically, noting “anti-LGBTQI+ rhetoric and violence have increased in recent years.” Meanwhile, the advisory for South Africa was updated in February to note that routes recommended by GPS may be unsafe with higher risk for crime.

Turkmenistan was moved off of the Level 2 list to become the newest addition to the Level 1 list on Jan. 22, meaning normal precautions are recommended but there are no risk factors causing travelers to practice increased caution.

The State Department asks travelers to pay attention to travel advisory levels and alerts , review country information pages for their destinations and read related country security reports before going abroad.

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Tags: Russia , Ukraine , Travel , Coronavirus , Travel Tips , Israel , Gaza , violence , Civil War , crime , kidnapping

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Everything you need to know about travel to France right now

By Olivia Morelli

France has raised its national threat level to its highest degree. The UK government website states that “terrorists are very likely to try to carry out attacks in France”, and advises those travelling in France currently to “remain vigilant at all times”. We look at how the situation impacts travel and what you can do to stay safe when travelling in France.

What is happening in France right now?

The change in terrorism threat levels comes after a fatal attack in Arras, northern France on Friday 13 October 2023. On Saturday 14 October 2023, the Louvre was evacuated after receiving a written threat , and the Palace of Versailles has been closed twice since Friday 13 October due to security scares. President Emmanuel Macron has increased the national threat level to its highest point, the ‘Emergency Attack Level’, and ordered 7,000 French soldiers to mobilise to further bolster security in public spaces.

How is this situation impacting travel to France?

On Wednesday 18 October 2023, news reports stated that six airports across France had been evacuated as state security received information of bomb threats. According to The Independent , these airports include Lille, Nice, Toulouse, Lyon, Nantes and two terminals at Paris-Beauvais. This has caused delays and cancellations for flights planning to arrive or depart from these airports.

Can I travel to France right now?

The UK government website does not mention avoiding travel to France; however, it advises travellers to remain extremely vigilant when travelling there. Visitors are told to “stay aware of your surroundings, stay away from demonstrations and follow the advice of local authorities”. The site claims that “terrorism attacks could be indiscriminate” and could happen “in places frequented by foreign nationals such as shopping centres, entertainment establishments. cultural events, public transport [and] places of worship”. Travellers are advised to “be vigilant in public places and follow the advice of local French authorities”.

What shall I do if I am planning to travel to France, or currently travelling in France?

The UK’s Counter Terrorism Policing unit has collated information and advice on how best to stay safe when travelling abroad and important information on what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Advice to consider before you travel includes checking the latest UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office travel advice, ensuring you have adequate travel insurance, and knowing the local emergency numbers in your destination (all EU countries can call 112). Read up on further safety tips at counterterrorism.police.uk and gov.uk .

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Paris France travel requirements 2024: What American travelers need to know

We aim to keep this post updated about Paris France travel in 2024 with official Paris travel restrictions, requirements, and health and safety guidance. Our goal is to help you make informed decisions so you can travel confidently, safely, and responsibly in this new post-pandemic world of ours.

Paris is a destination close to our hearts, as Michelle has relatives in the city and studied in Paris in college.

As restrictions vary based on the traveler’s citizenship, we will focus primarily on those affecting U.S. citizens.

Last update: January 2024. Originally published: May 2021.

Disclosure: This post contains some affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of our links, we may receive a small commission, at no additional cost to you.

January 2024 – Agnes Groonwald of Travel on the Reg , expats in France: “Tourism in Paris has seemed light since our move just outside of the city, but we also haven’t experienced the peak summer season yet. It’s still expected to book the big attractions (e.g. Louvre Museum) a few weeks ahead of travel, and dinner reservations remain a must at popular eateries.

Some locals and tourists are still voluntarily masking on crowded public transit and popular tourist destinations. Otherwise, it appears to be business as usual. There are no COVID protocols outside of doctors’ offices where masking is compulsory. Paris attractions, restaurants, and public transit are all operating without COVID-era restrictions. You can travel to/from the city without vaccine cards. That said, the city continues to struggle with regular disruptions to transit/worker shortages that require patience from travelers, but this has more to do with local politics vs. COVID. It’ll be interesting to see what happens during the Olympics.

The general tips for Paris travel apply. Leave plenty of time to get to/from attractions around the city and pre-book the big ticket items as soon as you know when you’re visiting.”

*At the end of the post, we share more on-the-ground perspectives from local residents and travelers to the Paris so you can get a true sense of what to expect.

Table of Contents

Can US citizens travel to Paris, France? Can I travel to Paris right now? 

Yes, France is open to American travelers, regardless of vaccination status.

As of August 2022 , France removed all COVID entry requirements for any traveler from any country.

Testing, proof of vaccination, proof of recovery, proof of a compelling reason for travel, and sworn declaration about Covid contact and symptoms are no longer required .

Visitors from over 60  visa-exempt countries , including the U.S., will soon be required to have a European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) travel authorization to enter Italy and other European countries . The start date has been delayed from 2024 to 2025. 

See details about ETIAS here

Paris, France travel restrictions currently allow traveling between regions. However, as of May 2023 , short-haul domestic flights that can be taken by train in less than two-and-a-half hours are not allowed. 

Effective March 2022, masks are no longer required in indoor spaces and public transport but still highly recommended in enclosed and small spaces, in hospitals, and other medical centers.

Quarantine rules in Paris, France: What happens if I get Covid?

Travelers are not required to quarantine upon arrival in France unless presenting symptoms of Covid.

Travelers who test positive for COVID-19 while in France are no longer required to self-isolate but are asked to observe the following guidelines:

• Wear mask, observe physical distancing, practice hand hygiene
• Avoid contact with people who are immunocompromised
• Notify others (family, friends, colleagues) you came in contact with within 48 hours before the onset of symptoms, or within 7 days before testing positive, if no symptoms are present
• Contact a doctor and monitor your health

See details here .

Paris Health Pass/Pass Sanitaire Requirements for Dining, Attractions, and Travel

You might be wondering: Do I need a vaccine certificate or Covid test to enter restaurants, public transit, accommodations, and attractions in Paris?

Since March 2022, a vaccine pass is no longer required to enter most establishments.

As of August 2022, Health Pass or passe sanitaire , obtained with a proof of either vaccination or a recent negative Covid test, is no longer required.

Can Americans travel to Paris France in 2024?

Travel to Paris in April is open for US citizens without restrictions. Please read on for details and check back for updates, as protocols may change.

What is it like to fly to Paris, France CDG Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport right now? As of March 2022, wearing a mask is no longer required in French airports. Check with your individual airline about mask requirements on board the flight.

Temperature checks or other screenings may be done at the airport. Hand sanitizers are readily available. 

Do Americans have to quarantine when traveling to Paris, France? No. Travelers are not required to quarantine upon arrival in France. 

Does France check COVID-19 symptoms of incoming travelers? Health screening procedures, including temperature checks, may be in place at airports and other ports of entry in France. 

Does France require a negative Covid 19 test for American travelers?  As of August 2022, a negative Covid 19 test is no longer required for entry. 

Does France require a proof of Coronavirus vaccine for American travelers? As of August 2022, a proof of Coronavirus vaccine is no longer required for entry.

Do I still need to provide a negative Covid test or quarantine if I have been vaccinated? No. Quarantine or proof of a negative Covid test are no longer required, regardless of vaccination status.

Is a booster shot required for travel to Paris, France? As of August 2022, booster shots are no longer required for purposes of entry to France. There is currently no expiration period set for the validity of vaccinations.

What Covid testing options are available for travelers in Paris, France? U.S. Citizens can obtain a COVID-19 test at laboratories and testing centers in Paris. Covid-19 testing centers are also available for certain situations in Paris-Charles de Gaulle airport and Paris-Orly by appointment .

PCR tests generally cost between 50 and 100 euros, payable in advance. Results for the PCR test are available within 48 hours. Antigen tests cost 29 euros for those not covered by French social security; results are usually available within half an hour.

Testing centers in France can be found on this map.

What healthcare options are available to travelers in Paris, France who get the virus? Paris, France hospitals and clinics are open. Testing in labs and pharmacies is available to foreign visitors at their own expense.

For travel insurance that covers Covid, check out Nomad Insurance by Safety Wing >

What service businesses and restaurants are open in Paris, France?  Restaurants, bars, cafes, museums, parks, clubs, attractions (including the Eiffel Tower), and tours have reopened. Stadiums, arenas and other large-capacity venues are allowed to operate at full capacity. 

Are face masks required in Paris, France? Masks are no longer required in France but may still be required in medical facilities. Private businesses may make masks a condition of entry at their discretion, but this is rare. 

Are buses running in Paris, France? Public transportation is available in Paris. A health pass is not required.

Will France impose new Covid restrictions? What’s next is difficult to predict. Historically, most countries impose COVID-19 restrictions when strains on the health care system might become unsustainable.

How has the Coronavirus impacted Paris, France?

France has been one of the hardest hit countries in Europe and went into a series of national lockdowns. Case numbers spiked in Fall 2020, Spring 2021, and Summer 2021 with the Delta variant.

More than 130,000 people in the tourism sector lost jobs in France.

In June 2021, France reopened its borders to more countries outside of Europe with a color-coded system for entry requirements.

France State of Emergency ended in August 2022; France removed all Covid related restrictions for all travelers from any country. 

Over 90% of the population have been fully vaccinated.

For the current situation in Paris France, including: total COVID-19 positive cases; total cases in France; and COVID-19 testing in France, please see the French Department of Health site .

What should you pack for safely traveling in Paris France?

😷 Face Masks – Face coverings are recommended in crowded places. Find N95 masks at Bona Fide > or designer options at Vida >

💊 Medicine – Bring enough prescription and over-the-counter medication for your entire trip to avoid trips to the clinic.

💳 Vaccine Card Holder – Protect that paper CDC card when traveling abroad (if your country doesn’t offer a digital version). Get a simple plastic protector > or Vegan leather clippable > or Leather passport + card combo holder >

👃 Covid self-test – The most studied rapid antigen self-test with FDA emergency authorization.  NOT valid to enter countries. Use for your own peace of mind. Order from CVS > or Walmart >

💧 Sealed water bottle – Make sure your reusable water bottle has a lid that’s not exposed to the air. We use one of each of the following: Shop insulated water bottles with protective lid > Shop water bottles with purification filter and protective lid >

✈️ Travel insurance that covers Covid – We’ve started using Nomad Insurance by Safety Wing for affordable evacuation, international medical, and trip coverage.

What do Paris, France locals and recent travelers say about visiting Paris, France now?

What is it like to visit Paris, France right now? It’s our goal to provide regular updates here from real people on the ground, to help potential visitors know what to expect.

The following are subjective opinions only. Official travel guidance can be found above.

January 2024 – Agnes Groonwald of Travel on the Reg, resident of France:  “Tourism in Paris has seemed light since our move just outside of the city, but we also haven’t experienced the peak summer season yet. It’s still expected to book the big attractions (e.g. Louvre Museum) a few weeks ahead of travel, and dinner reservations remain a must at popular eateries.

September 2023 – Lauren of Pack and Paint, UK traveler:  “I caught the Eurostar from London to Paris for five days of sightseeing. Tourism in Paris is in full-swing post covid with adventurers from across the globe hitting up the French capital in their millions. Top tourist attractions such as the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre were busy which indicated a large tourism boom. 

In Paris, it felt like everyone had gone back to pre-covid times. Hardly anyone wore masks or followed social distancing. With large crowds at most tourist attractions, it would have been tough to follow covid related advice.”

June 2023 – Jori of The Tejana Abroad , expat:  “Summer in Europe is back and with it, all the usual summer crowds! Most attractions in Paris have opened up and are welcoming international visitors. If you’re still a bit wary of crowds after Covid though, maybe try to visit France during the lower seasons, such as fall and spring.

The majority of French citizens are vaccinated with booster shots, but the government is no longer testing international visitors. Healthcare in France is easy to access and if you fear you are infected, you are able to get tested at any nearby pharmacy. Local tourist attractions and restaurants are very crowded in the high season, but a nice alternative is ordering food to go and enjoying it in a picnic in the park.”

February 2023 – Laura Bronner of Eternal Expat , American traveler:  “I visited Paris for 4 days as part of a 10-day trip around France in February 2023. Paris feels completely back to normal. All museums and tourist attractions are back open with normal opening hours. The metro is clean and operating at normal and frequent times.

It was very busy when I visited in Feb 2023, especially at the biggest tourist sites like the Louvre, Eiffel Tower, and view points for these places. If you plan to visit in 2023, I highly recommend pre-booking tickets for the museums you want to go to with time slots and make sure to make reservations for restaurants you don’t want to miss, especially if you are traveling as a group of more than 2 people. If you don’t make a reservation, arrive at the time the restaurant opens for the best chance of getting a table for lunch or dinner service.

There is still easy access to testing at most pharmacies around Paris. You can definitely get the at-home tests at every pharmacy and many have testing centers outside the pharmacies which are conducted by pharmacists. There are no other restrictions on public transportation (no masks required, but they are “recommended” for public transport). There are lots of lines at museums and restaurants near the main attractions were incredibly busy.”

January 2023 – Amber Everywhere , American traveler: “Tourism seems to be back to normal in Paris, with large crowds in many of the most popular parts of the city. You’ll see masks and social distancing in some spaces, but most places are crowded and maskless. 

Testing appears to be widely available in Paris, with some visible testing tents throughout the city. There does not appear to be contact tracing in place, at least for crowded public spaces; locals did not mention any trouble accessing healthcare. Most local attractions appeared to be open, same with restaurants and other amenities. I didn’t notice any COVID-related restrictions, though many people chose to wear masks when in public areas (like the metro).”

September 2022 – Alyssa, American traveler: “We arrived in Paris with our two little kids, getting ready to caravan with some friends here in France. So far, I would say Paris is medium to low in terms of crowdedness. Public transit hasn’t been too packed. Everything is open and mask free for the most part.”

June 28, 2022 – Gretchen of Chasing Advntr , U.S. traveler : “We flew to Paris for several days as part of a month long European trip and to celebrate my twins birthday. We walked to all the major sites and while it was crowded, we had no trouble enjoying the attractions. We were glad we booked a river cruise and tickets to Musee D’Orsay in advance as tickets sold out for the river cruise and the museum line was at least an hour wait.

There were very few people wearing masks and maintaining social distance. Lines were long at the major attractions, but we never waited long for a table to eat. We also experienced a partial train strike which added to the difficulty of getting to the airport on already busy trains. Give yourself plenty of extra time to get to the airport.”

May 2022 – Mike C., American traveler: “Travel in Paris was pretty relaxed. There’s no more green pass or need to show vaccine card. Technically there were some rules on public transit to wear a mask. But it felt more like a choice as it was 50/50 on who did and didn’t. Transit was literally the only place with masking in Paris. Crowds felt like Paris is back to normal.”

March 9, 2022 – Erica of Nice French Things, French resident: “It’s the perfect time to visit Paris. Lines are short (or nonexistent) and monuments and tourist attractions are under capacity. Asian tourists have not returned yet and other Europeans are visiting their own countries they haven’t seen in the past 2 years.

Testing and tracing has been perfected here. Our vaccine pass will stop being required on Monday so we will be free to go to museums, theaters, restaurants without showing pass and we will not be required to wear masks. Pharmacies are the go-to for everything. Easy, fast, cheap tests done there. Paris area just reduced price permanently on regional rail tickets. Very advantageous for visitors.”

February 15, 2022 – Ingrid of Second Half Travels , U.S. traveler: “I’m spending 5 weeks in Paris and Montpellier currently studying French. COVID case numbers are dropping steeply in France. However, tourism numbers in February are still very low, so it’s a great time to visit to enjoy uncrowded museums and other sights.

My flight from Dallas to Paris in February was almost empty. I had a whole row of 9 seats to myself. Rapid and PCR tests are readily available at French pharmacies. It was easy and quick to get my Pass Vaccinal at an airport pharmacy when I arrived for 36 euros; I just showed my CDC vaccination proof of my vaccines and booster.

The Pass Vaccinal is supposed to be checked at all restaurants, museums, and long-distance trains. In practice, restaurants and trains sometimes fail to check. The Louvre and Musée d’Orsay in Paris were uncrowded: no large tour groups, only individual tourists from neighboring European countries like Spain. A Parisian friend told me, ‘You will never see Paris uncrowded like this again.’ I have actually extended my trip to add on more days in Paris to take advantage of this unique opportunity.”

October 23, 2021 – Jennifer A., American tourist: “ We had a fantastic time. We were very careful the entire week we were in Paris. Wore our masks everywhere and washed our hands a lot.  Instead of doing two or three things in a day, we just did one major tourist thing each day. To be honest, that made the trip more enjoyable. We used the Paris Museum Pass and that was great. I ordered the five day passes and they mailed them to me last month. A couple of the museums required us to book a time slot to get in. I was of course concerned about passing a COVID test 72 hours prior to returning to the U.S. My sister and I walked about 500 feet from our hotel to a pharmacy to take the COVID test. The cost was 25 Euros for each one of us. The gentleman in the pharmacy was so professional. We also received our results via email in about 30 minutes. Unbelievable. We were able to upload the COVID results to a VERIFLY app that American Airlines wanted us to use. It made things a lot easier to go home.  The French residents were all so nice to us. I am so glad we went.”

October 6, 2021 – Nick Winder, Illness To Ultra , American digital nomad: “I flew to Paris in order to transit to the south of France to visit family. Although there are still people visiting Paris, it’s obvious the tourist rates are reduced. Locals are more than welcoming, but the requirement of a health pass, even for foreign visitors proves challenge for both tourists, and local business owners. Nearly every local was compliant with city regulations, which is a must, especially considering public transport can still be busy. Access to testing and healthcare is abundant among pharmacies, although Sundays many pharmacies are closed. Most local attractions still remain open, although at a reduced capacity, but the reduced tourist level lines are not much of a problem. Just be aware that many attractions are ticketed.”

September 13, 2021 – Susan, US traveler: “ We’ve been in Paris almost 2 weeks finding it somewhat changed in several ways. We read that you can get the Passe Sanitiaire at pharmacies, yet, we’ve gone to more than I can count always being told that pharmacies are not providing them. At one yesterday, the owner said he believes that people were getting antigen tests at the pharmacy which gives a 72-hour Passe Sanitiaire. Tourists are few especially Americans. Some stores are permanently closed in touristy areas while nothing has changed in our neighborhood that is more residents of Paris.”

November 2021 – Roobens, French citizen in Paris, Been Around the Globe : “Everything reopened in May (bars, restaurants, gyms, clubs, etc.) in France. Meaning life is more or less back to normal. You just need to have a health pass to prove you’re fully vaccinated. And you have to wear a mask indoors (at the supermarket, when taking the metro, etc.). People are more than ready to travel in Europe only right now. Outside Europe it’s a different story since many borders are still closed. It’s very easy to get tested and to get vaccinated. There’s also an app for contact tracing, most people use it (it’s called “AntiCovid”). Everything is open (museums, restaurants, tourist attractions, etc.).”

September 2021 – Susan, traveling to Paris from US: “My husband and I flew to Paris in August-September 2021 for a 3 week visit with my daughter who lives there as a digital nomad. Tourists are very welcome if fully vaccinated. Major tourist attractions were uncrowded, though online ticket purchases are still recommended. Restaurants were full, especially the venues with large outdoor seating areas. (Travelers should be aware that diners frequently smoke in the outdoor areas.) Nevertheless, this may have been the best time in recent years to be in Paris, due to small crowd size.  Paris was very ready to serve customers in the time of Covid. The French population is >70% vaccinated and the digital vaccine passport works well for French residents (but not visitors). Visitors should bring their original vaccine card to get on the airplane, but a laminated photocopy worked well at every location.

A vaccine card (or proof of a negative Covid test within 72 hours) was required at every.single.sit-down eating establishment, hotel, museum, or major tourist destination. Proof was not required to ride public transportation.

Surgical (not cloth) masks are required in every indoor space. Indoor mask-wearing was being strictly followed, with an occasional scofflaw in the subways. Compliance was certainly better than most places in the US. Almost all restaurants had outdoor patio seating available, though the desirability of this may change as the weather cools. Take-out businesses and park-bench dining were thriving. I did not see evidence that contact tracing (in restaurants) was happening. There are Covid testing tents in most busy squares, but many are not accessible to non-residents because they don’t have the ability to charge the required fee there. Covid testing (required for return to the US, and elsewhere) can be done in pharmacies and labs. Your hotel desk may help you find a location. Caution – our results did not arrive via text, as promised, probably because we didn’t have a French phone number. We ended up waiting in a very slow line at the lab to get the results.”

August 30, 2021 – Melissa Suzuno , U.S. visitor: “I’m spending a week in Paris in late August/early September 2021 and my trip is just for fun but as a freelance writer, I’m also doing some work here.  I’m not sure if I’d really describe Parisians as “welcoming,” (haha) but tourism is alive and well in Paris. I did an Airbnb Experience and about half of the participants were French and half were American. The guide said that the number of Americans had decreased for a while but seems to be bouncing back. There are restrictions in place and they seem to be followed quite consistently. For example, you need to show your health pass (or recent negative COVID test) to eat in a restaurant (even outside) or enter a museum. Everywhere I’ve gone has enforced this. Local attractions like museums are open, but they recommend (and sometimes require) you to reserve your time in advance. I’ve gotten a few tests since I’ve been here (to get the temporary health pass). Tests are available in nearly any pharmacy and cost around 30 euros.”

June 2021 – Leyla, Offbeat France , French resident:  “I took a walking tour in the Marais a few days ago and we had one American tourist – the guide said it was her first of the season. Most tourists are French or European in Paris, but with the lockdown now lifted, a few Americans are beginning to arrive. In Paris, I’d say about 90% of people are following the rules. There is the occasional person who doesn’t cover their face in the subway or bus but they do get sideways looks from others. Everyone is masked in shops, because the owners will get fined otherwise. There’s usually plenty of gel at the door or at the cash register. In the streets, quite a few people still wear masks, considering that they are no longer mandatory. As the hot weather moves in, there will probably be fewer masks in the streets. The attached photo shows people do occasionally wear masks outdoors.”

June 2021 – Lena, Salut from Paris , French resident: “ Paris experienced a collective sigh in relief during the past weeks and enjoys the pure presence of normality – and travelers clearly belong to this normality.  Just a couple of weeks ago, the obligation to wear masks outdoors got lifted. Indoors, it is still mandatory and the vast majority is complying. Food services and attractions are open again. However, while the online booking service of attractions assures that the number of visitors is not exceeded, I observe often that bars and restaurants are way fuller than they should be. It is recommended in France that everyone, locals and travelers, are downloading the app #tousanticovid for tracing and alerts. If a visitor requires a covid test, they can easily get tested in pharmacies.”

May 2021 – Audrey, French Resident in Lyon: “Since May 19, the curfew is now starting at 9:00 pm. Restaurants (only outdoor dining), boutiques, movie theatres, museums… have re-opened, only accepting half of the possible guests (which means you need to book everything or wait long lines on the sidewalk). Travel between regions is fully allowed before curfew and after if you’re filing an exemption form (if your train or flight arrives at 9:30 pm for example). All French people over 50 are being vaccinated. Our next milestones are the following: – May 31: opening of vaccination to everyone – June 9: opening of indoor dining and more people allowed in boutiques and such. Of course, wearing a mask is still mandatory everywhere public, inside and out.”

Planning a trip to Paris France?

Check out our other Paris, France travel resources: – Preparing for a Budget Trip to France   – Where to Stay in Paris France: Best Neighborhoods Hotels Airbnbs – Travel Seasons: The Best Time to Visit Europe

If you have questions or updates about travel to Paris, France during the Coronavirus crisis or post-pandemic, please let us know in the comments below.

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Disclaimer: Please note, travel restrictions change frequently. Readers must take responsibility for verifying information through official sources like the State Department and CDC, in respect to their specific situations. No responsibility can be accepted by Intentional Travelers for action or inaction as a result of information provided through IntentionalTravelers.com. Any information provided here is issued as general information only.

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https://www.euronews.com/2022/03/03/covid-in-europe-france-to-scrap-face-masks-and-vaccine-passes-on-14-march

Looks like things may be loosening up by March 14th hopefully

Michelle, I have seen articles with Forbes, euro news & Reuters on the vaccine pass getting scrapped by March 14th in Paris except for in hospitals and on public transportation. Do you have any knowledge of this? Thanks Wendy

Hi Wendy! Thank you for visiting our blog. That information is correct. The French Government has recently announced that effective March 14, the vaccine pass will not be required to enter most businesses such as restaurants, bars, cafes, ski lifts, museums, cinemas and other cultural venues and theme parks. However, proof of vaccination will still be required in hospitals, retirement homes, and health centers.

I am a fully vaccinated/boosted American who will be arriving in Brest, France for one day, May 10, on a cruise ship followed with a one day stop in LeHavre, France on May 12. I’m aware of the French Vaccine Pass but can’t find anything about what is needed for a cruise ship arrival. Any help you can provide will be greatly appreciated.

Hi Susan. The French government does not specify restrictions for cruise ship passengers, therefore, the current entry rules for air travelers may also apply to travelers who want to go ashore in French ports. I understand that you are fully vaccinated/boosted, which is already compliant to France’s entry rules (you can find the details in our blog). Your cruise ship operator may also have information regarding entry rules to France. We will update our blog if the French government releases information regarding cruise ship arrivals. I hope this helps.

I just received this from Eurostar “You are considered fully vaccinated for travel purposes if you are aged 18 and over and: *you received a COVID-19 vaccine booster*

*you received the second dose of a two-dose vaccine at least a week ago, but no more than nine months ago*

So the important word here is “OR”. Sounds like it’s just what you said Michelle…thank you so much!!!

Thanks for following up, Debbi!

The new booster requirement is very confusing to me. I’ve read other articles where it says, if you don’t get a booster “within 9 months of original vaccine” then you’re considered unvaccinated.

I’m hoping you or someone you know can confirm this. My vaccination dates are as follows: Moderna – 4/5/2021 Moderna – 5/3/2021 Moderna Booster – 2/12/2022

Traveling at the end of March 2022 – As of now, will I be considered fully vaccinated and allowed to enter France? Or did I get the booster too late?

Thank you. Your article is very helpful!

Hi Katherine. We acknowledge that this requirement has been confusing. The way the official rule was translated in English makes it sound like the booster must be done *within* a certain timeframe. However, an expiration like this would be highly impractical and, in fact, most reporting on the requirement say more clearly: “Travelers aged 18 and over who had their full vaccine course over 9 months ago and have not since received a COVID-19 vaccine booster must follow the rules for unvaccinated passengers to enter France.” We have been researching this closely and have not seen any evidence of travelers being denied for a “late” booster, nor does France ever mention needing a second booster. We are keeping a close eye on this and will share any updates as they become available.

Thank you so much for your reply! I will keep a close eye on your page for any other updates.

Hello Michelle,

I am confused about the new protocol in France re: vaccinations and boosters. If I had my 2 vaccinations last Feb and March 2021 and then my booster 6 months later, am I considered “fully vaccinated”? Also, my adult son had his 2 vaccinations, the second being May 6th. He has not yet had his booster. I am reading that there is a 9 month expiration of his initial vaccinations so as of Feb 6 (3 days ago) he can no longer be considered “fully vaccinated” even if he gets his booster immediately?

Debbi, I hear you. This particular requirement can certainly be confusing, not to mention constantly changing. The way France has written the booster rule (“no later than nine months following the injection of the last required dose”) makes it sound like the booster must be done *within* 9 months of the second dose to enter France (or soon to be 4 months for the vaccine pass to enter restaurants). However, an expiration like this seems highly impractical and, in fact, most reporting on the requirement say more clearly: “Travelers aged 18 and over who had their full vaccine course over 9 months ago and have not since received a COVID-19 vaccine booster must follow the rules for unvaccinated passengers to enter France.” This would indicate that your son can be considered fully vaccinated once he gets a booster, even if the booster is done after 9 months. I’m assuming it’s just a translation/wording problem because I have not seen anywhere that travelers with “late” booster doses would lose any chance of being considered fully vaccinated. We are keeping a close eye on this and will share any updates as they become available.

Boosters every 4 months??! Wow

Yes, it seems to be the case. Like so many protocols, though, it could very well change.

I have a trip planned to Paris March 18,2022. I am reading that everyone needs to have the booster shot after being vaccinated for 4 months or you will not get the Vaccine Pass. Do you know if this rule is also mandatory for people going to France from the US? Some articles I have read say it is mandatory and others say it is not. Do you happen to know?

Thanks for your question Susie. I think part of the confusion is that the rules have changed recently. The following update is directly from the French government website in regards to foreigners vaccinated outside of France: “Since the 15th of January 2022, people aged 18 years and 1 month or more and who completed their initial vaccination scheme more than 7 months ago will need to present a proof of a booster dose to be eligible to receive a vaccine equivalency health pass.” I’m not sure why this site does not list the change to a 4 month rule that reportedly goes into effect in February. Perhaps confirmation is still forthcoming.

I am fully vaccinated. I had my booster in Dec. of 2021. I am going to France in June 2022, 6 months after my booster. Do I need a second booster in order to get in the country, or the receive the Health Certificate to allow me into restaurants and museums?

Hi Rebecca. We acknowledge that this requirement has been confusing. The way the official rule was translated in English makes it sound like the booster must be done *within* a certain timeframe. However, an expiration like this would be highly impractical and, in fact, most reporting on the requirement say more clearly: “Travelers aged 18 and over who had their full vaccine course over 9 months ago and have not since received a COVID-19 vaccine booster must follow the rules for unvaccinated passengers to enter France.” We have been researching this closely and have not seen any evidence of travelers being denied for a “late” booster, nor does France ever mention needing a second booster at this time. If you are boosted, you meet the current requirements to enter France and to receive the vaccine certificate. We are keeping a close eye on this and will share any updates as they become available.

I am wanting to plan a trip to take my 14 yr old daughter to Paris the last week of March 2022 on her spring break. I am fully vaccinated, but she is not. She has lab proof of antibodies – also sadly I’m being treated for a blood clot from my Covid vaccine which leads to my hesitation to vaccinate her. All of that aside- I see the paragraph that says travelers ages 11-17 are considered vaccinated if traveling with a fully vaccinated parent (I understand we would both need negative Covid test as well) I have read multiple other sites and I’ve seen this same info but have also seen on other sites everyone 12 & older must be vaccinated unless they’re going to quarantine for 10 days. Do you know what the policy is on this as we do not have 10 days to quarantine. IF she is able to come & not quarantine what would we do to get her a health pass or QR code to enter tourist sites? These are questions I cannot seem to clear up & I want to be sure before I would plan this. I am willing to email or call to France if I had the appropriate number and email contact. I’ve already sent an email a week ago through a government site and still do not have a response. Thank you in advance for any help/info you may have.

Thank you for visiting our blog. Current France travel rules states that “The measures applicable to fully vaccinated adults will be extended under the same conditions to minors accompanying them, regardless of vaccination status.” Since you are vaccinated, your 14-year-old daughter will be treated as vaccinated as well and will not need to quarantine. A negative test is however required for all travelers aged 12 and over. You can check the U.S. Embassy in France or the France Diplomacy websites for more information.

Regarding the health pass, persons age 12-15 require a health pass everywhere a vaccine pass is required. You can obtain a vaccine pass (or a health pass for your daughter) from designated pharmacies in France for a fee of up to 36 Euros (approximately 41.18 USD). You can check here for the map of designated pharmacies in France. You can check our blog for more information about the health pass and regular updates about France’s travel requirements. Hope this helps.

Thank you for your reply. As far as the health pass goes for my 14 yr old daughter, since she is not vaccinated am I understanding that in order for her to obtain one from the French pharmacies she will have to pass a Covid test every 24 hrs. for a fee of 36 euros each time to keep it active in order to be admitted into restaurants, museums, etc.? I have clicked on the map of pharmacies to actually check with one but everything on that page is in French. I am just making sure I understand this. Thank you

Wendy, an unvaccinated 14 year old would need a test within 24 hours in order to enter restaurants, attractions, and long-distance travel. She would not need to test daily unless you are visiting places where the pass is required each day. Antigen tests are 25 euros (36 was for the vaccine equivalent, sorry for the confusion). Here is a more direct link to pharmacy testing location map, you just have to keep clicking to zoom in on Paris: https://www.sante.fr/cf/carte-depistage-covid.html

Excellent information! Merci! It is January in the US right now and we are planning our trip to Paris for mid April 20 22 very excited but also so concerned because of the omicron variant now. I will follow your blog and see if any new postings are out as January comes to an end I am getting ready to book our trip now. Thanks again so much.

Great blog! Thanks for sharing paris travel restrictions, really helpful content.

I am planning a trip to Paris September 22 through 29th with a one day bus trip to Normandy. I understand that since I have a CDC proof of vaccination I do not need a test to enter France. However I do need a Travel Pass which would be obtained at a Pharmacy. I had read that the French government was paying for tests in order for tourists to return to their country of origin but not sure that is correct. My main question, does this process of receiving the Travel Pass work “smooth” or could there be snags. Same question for the required Covid-19 test upon returning, are there ample Pharmacy and testing sites for tourists? Has anyone taken a survey of recent travelers? Thank you

Thanks for visiting our blog. The French health pass for non-EU citizens is still relatively new and the protocols for visitors in September don’t seem to be fully established yet. Official guidance can be found here . At the moment, visitors coming before August 18 are able to submit their proof of vaccination by email before arrival to get the pass (a QR code). In case it’s not processed in time, getting tested in France is a temporary “back-up” method, valid for 72 hours. I’ve also seen that some travelers have been able to show their CDC vaccine card at a pharmacy in Paris to receive a QR code within 15 minutes, but I’m not sure how common that is yet. We will continue to seek out on-the-ground reports from recent travelers to find out how it’s going, and we’ll regularly update this post as we learn more.

We are scheduled to arrive Paris September 7, cruise to Normandy from the 9th through 16th, spend two more days in Paris, returning to U.S. on the 18th. The CDC and State Department alerts say “do not travel” and also warn about demonstrations and violence in tourist areas of major cities. We are in our 70s, fully vaccinated, but also cancer survivors. Should we cancel our trip?

I understand your concern. It’s a question I’ve been getting a lot lately with all the uncertainty around Europe travel so I wrote an article about it here: https://intentionaltravelers.com/should-i-reschedule-my-trip/ There is no right answer, as it depends on your values and risk tolerance, so I can’t really make that call for you. Demonstrations in Paris are certainly an additional factor to consider. But just to give some perspective… I’ve never been to Paris when there *wasn’t* a demonstration going by on my Uncle’s street, although they can vary in intensity. Usually protest locations are known so they can be avoided. However, if potentially dealing with that sounds too stressful, it may be a reason to cancel. Being fully vaccinated makes a huge difference but even so, cruising and travel in France during the pandemic is not without risk. Does the benefit of this trip outweigh that risk? Will worry get in the way of your enjoyment? That’s up to you.

Is there an app to use to show proof of vaccine status for visitors from outside the EU?

Thanks for your question. The E.U. vaccine app is only available to citizens and residents of the EU so far. Whether this will eventually be made available for non-EU tourists to facilitate travel in Europe is not yet clear, but we’ll be sure to update our blog posts here if that changes.

I am a US citizen planning a trip from USA to London and then to Paris. Is there any rules for US citizen traveling to Paris, via London by train?

Good question. Traveling through some countries to France can complicate the requirements. Whereas the U.S. is on the “green list”, the U.K. is on the “amber list” for France and the rules for the UK would apply since that’s where you’ll be departing from to enter France. Fully vaccinated travelers can enter France without an essential reason and would need to present a recent negative Covid test and proof of vaccination status. More details can be found here: https://www.diplomatie.gouv.fr/en/coming-to-france/coronavirus-advice-for-foreign-nationals-in-france/#sommaire_1

Hi Michelle,

It looks like France is no longer requiring a negative PCR test for vaccinated travelers from “Green” countries (the US included).

Or is it? Later on that page it states “(if you are aged 11 years or older) you agree to submit to a virological RT-PCR test for SARS-CoV-2 upon arrival in France.”

What are your thoughts?

Hi Ben. Thank you for visiting our blog. It is correct that France is no longer requiring a negative PCR test for fully vaccinated travelers from the United States and other Green countries. If a traveler (aged 11 years or older) from Green countries is not fully vaccinated, then a negative PCR or antigen test is required. A negative PCR or antigen test is also required for allowed travelers coming from “Orange” and “Red” countries.

A quick update from France: Since May 19, the curfew is now starting at 9:00 pm. Restaurants (only outdoor dining), boutiques, movie theatres, museums… have re-opened, only accepting half of the possible guests (which means you need to book everything or wait long lines on the sidewalk). Travel between regions is fully allowed before curfew and after if you’re filing an exemption form (if your train or flight arrives at 9:30 pm for example). All French people over 50 are being vaccinated. Our next milestones are the following: – May 31: opening of vaccination to everyone – June 9: opening of indoor dining and more people allowed in boutiques and such. Of course, wearing a mask is still mandatory everywhere public, inside and out.

Hi! Thanks so much for sharing these updates from France!

I have friends in Paris and I’m thinking about going next month…. Will the restrictions ease by then?

Hello and thank you for visiting our blog. I understand your concern about your trip next month, though we don’t have any special insight as to when protocols might change, beyond what we’ve already shared in the article. We will do our best to keep updating this post as the situation progresses.

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Travel Advisory July 26, 2023

France - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

Exercise increased caution in France due to  terrorism  and  civil unrest .

Country Summary:  Terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in France. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, local government facilities, hotels, clubs, restaurants, places of worship, parks, major sporting and cultural events, educational institutions, airports, and other public areas.

Incidents such as pickpocketing and phone snatchings occur frequently and can happen anywhere, especially in crowded areas such as airports, train stations, subway and train cars, and near tourist attractions.

Peaceful demonstrations and strikes in Paris and other cities throughout France occur regularly and can disrupt transportation. On rare occasions, demonstrations have included violence and property damage and police have responded with water cannons and tear gas.

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to France.

If you decide to travel to France:

• Be aware of your surroundings when traveling to tourist locations and large crowded public venues.
• Avoid demonstrations and areas with significant police activity.
• Follow the instructions of local authorities including movement restrictions related to any ongoing police action.
• Find a safe location and shelter in place if unable to leave the vicinity of a demonstration.
• Monitor local media for breaking events and adjust your plans based on new information.
• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  ( STEP ) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter .
• Review the  Country Security Report  for France.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel. 
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .

Embassy Messages

View Alerts and Messages Archive

Quick Facts

At least three months beyond date of departure from the Schengen area. The 12-page U.S. emergency passport is not valid for visa-free entry into France.

Must have at least one blank page for stamps

Not required for stays under 90 days

10,000 Euros Max

Embassies and Consulates

U.S. Embassy Paris 2 Avenue Gabriel 75008 Paris, France Telephone: +(33)(1) 43-12-22-22 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(33)(1) 43-12-22-22, enter zero “0” after the automated greeting Fax:  +(33)(1) 42-61-61-40 (Special Consular Services) [email protected]

Only the consular sections in Paris and Marseille are authorized to issue passports. The other offices provide limited services to U.S. citizens.

U.S. Consulate General Marseille Place Varian Fry 13286 Marseille Cedex 6 France Telephone: +(33)(1) 43-12-47-54 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(33)(1) 43-12-22-22 [email protected]

U.S. Consulate General Strasbourg 15, Avenue d'Alsace 67082 Strasbourg Cedex France Telephone: +(33)(1) 43-12-48-80 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(33)(1) 43-12-22-22 Fax: (33)(3) 88-24-06-95 [email protected]

When calling from within France, drop the country code and add a zero. For example: +(33)(1) 43-12-22-22 becomes 01-43-12-22-22.

Please note that the emergency after-hours telephone number for all U.S. posts in France is: +(33)(1) 43-12-22-22 . Ask to speak to the duty officer if you need emergency assistance after business hours.

Destination Description

Learn about the U.S. relationship to countries around the world.

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

Visit the  Embassy of France  website for the most current visa and entry requirement information.

The Government of France does not recognize the 12-page U.S. emergency passport, issued by U.S. embassies and consulates overseas, as a valid travel document for visa-free entry into France. If traveling on this emergency passport, you may be refused boarding and/or entry by immigration officials and/or held at the airport until a return flight to the U.S. is available. Direct transit through France for another destination accepting an emergency passport may be permitted. You should check entry requirements of any other country of destination to make sure the emergency passport is accepted for entry.

You may enter the Schengen area, including France, for up to 90 days for tourist and business purposes without a visa.

Immigration officers may also request you show sufficient funds for your intended stay and a return airline ticket.

If you are traveling to France or Monaco for reasons other than business or tourism, such as employment (including diplomatic or official travel), study, or internship, you must obtain the appropriate French or Monegasque (Monaco) visa for that purpose before you leave the United States. You should be aware that it is nearly impossible to obtain or change visa status while in France.

All minors (under age 18) traveling without a parent or legal guardian and who are residents in France must have the written consent of at least one parent or legal guardian to leave France. The minor must travel with his or her own I.D., a copy of the parent/guardian’s I.D., and form number 15646*01, executed by the parent/guardian and available  here .

If you are transiting through France to South Africa, there are special requirements for minors. See  Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements for South Africa  for additional information.

Contact the  French Embassy  in Washington at 4101 Reservoir Road NW, Washington, DC 20007, tel. (202) 944 6000, or one of the  French Consulates General  in Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, New Orleans, New York, or San Francisco for the most current visa information.

Special Note:  Overseas departments and territories of France (i.e. those not located in Europe) are not included in the Schengen Agreement. Please see Country Specific Information on  French Guiana ,  French Polynesia , and the  French West Indies  for entry and exit requirements. For other departments and territories, visit the  Embassy of France  website for the most current visa and entry requirement information for those areas.

Monaco:  For further information on entry requirements to Monaco, travelers may contact the  Embassy of the Principality of Monaco , 888 17th Street NW, Suite 500, Washington D.C. 20006, Tel: (202) 234-1530, Email:  [email protected] ; or the Consulate General of Monaco, 565 Fifth Avenue – 23rd floor, New York, NY 10017, Tel: (212) 286-0500, Email:  [email protected] .

Traveling Through Europe :  If you are planning to visit or travel through European countries, you should be familiar with the requirements of the Schengen Agreement. 

• Your passport should be valid for at least three months beyond the period of stay if you plan on transiting a Schengen country. Please review our U.S. Travelers in Europe page.  We recommend that your passport have at least six months’ validity remaining.
• You will need s ufficient proof of funds and a return plane ticket . 
• For additional information about visas for the Schengen area, see the Schengen Visa page.

HIV/AIDS Restrictions: The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of France.

Find information about  dual nationality , prevention of international child abduction and  customs regulations  on our websites.

Safety and Security

Terrorism:  Terrorist groups and those inspired by such organizations are intent on attacking U.S. citizens abroad.  Terrorists are increasingly using less sophisticated methods of attack – including knives, firearms, and vehicles – to more effectively target crowds.  Frequently, their aim is unprotected or vulnerable targets, such as:

• High-profile public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.)
• Hotels, clubs, and restaurants frequented by tourists
• Places of worship
• Shopping malls and markets
• Public transportation systems (including subways, buses, trains, and scheduled commercial flights) 

For more information, see our Terrorism page. 

French authorities have spoken publicly about the heightened threat conditions for terrorist attacks in Europe.

A counterterrorism law enacted in 2017 allows the government to prevent the circulation of individuals and to create zones of protection and security.

The French government has temporarily reestablished border controls at its borders with its Schengen neighbors and movement may be restricted in some areas. Border controls with the United Kingdom, including the Channel Tunnel crossing, have also been reestablished following Brexit.

The Government of France routinely conducts security and crisis management drills involving deployment of security forces, emergency services, and police to high profile areas that may be near popular tourist sites. U.S. citizens should be aware of the possibility of drills and should heed instructions of local authorities should they encounter them.

French police and military routinely patrol public spaces. You should expect security inspections (to include purses, bags, and backpacks) at the entrance to large public venues and businesses.

When traveling or living in France, you should:

• Be aware of your local security situation and take appropriate steps to bolster your personal security.
• Monitor media and local information sources like  France24 , Radio France International , The Local , and the Paris Travel Information webpage and factor updated information into personal travel plans and activities. 
• Address specific safety concerns to French law enforcement authorities who have responsibility for the safety and security of all residents and visitors to France.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  ( STEP ) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.

Crime:  The majority of crimes directed against foreign visitors, including U.S. citizens, involve pick-pocketing (passports, phones, cash, credit cards), vehicle and residential break-ins, bicycle theft, and other forms of theft.

Visitors to congested and popular tourist areas (e.g., museums, monuments, train stations, airports, and subways) should be particularly attentive to their surroundings. Rental cars are frequently targeted for break-ins when visitors exit their vehicles and leave valuables behind.

Crimes of opportunity are more likely to involve violence on the street late at night or when the victim resists. 

Exercise extra caution when out alone at night and/or consider traveling out at night with trusted companions.

While the incidence of sexual assault is statistically low, attacks do occur.

Be aware of “date-rape” drugs, which are present in France. The Embassy has assisted multiple victims who appear to have been targeted using these drugs.

Be cautious in bars and clubs where alcohol is served, and do not leave your drink unattended or accept a drink from strangers, as they may have slipped drugs into the drink.  

There are high incidences of “smash and grab” robberies in economically depressed areas or on highly traveled thoroughfares such as roads to and from the airport. Thieves on foot or motorcycle will approach a vehicle that is stopped in traffic, smash a window, reach into the vehicle to grab a purse or other valuable item, and then flee. Keep doors locked and valuables out of sight.

See our travel tips for  Women Travelers .

Demonstrations  occur frequently.  They may take place in response to political or economic issues, on politically significant holidays, and during international events. 

• Demonstrations can be unpredictable, avoid areas around protests and demonstrations.
• Past demonstrations have turned violent.
• Check local media for updates and traffic advisories. 
• Strikes can interfere with travel plans and increase expenses of traveling to France.

Demonstration organizers must obtain prior police approval, and police routinely oversee participants. In case of violence or property damage, French authorities may use chemical agents and water cannons to disperse crowds.

Alerts issued regarding demonstrations are posted on the  U.S. Mission’s website .

International Financial Scams:  See the  Department of State  and the  FBI   pages for information.

Victims of Crime:  Report crimes to the local police by dialing 112 (the European emergency number which has some English-speaking staff)  or 17 from a landline or cell phone and contact the U.S. Embassy Paris at +(33)(1) 43-12-22-22. French authorities do not generally speak English and communication may be difficult.  Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime.

See our webpage on  help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .

• help you find appropriate medical care
• assist you in reporting a crime to the police
• contact relatives or friends with your written consent
• provide general information regarding the victim’s role during the local investigation and following its conclusion
• provide a  list of local attorneys
• provide information on  victim’s compensation programs in the U.S.
• provide the Paris Police Prefecture pamphlet in English
• provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution
• help you find accommodation and arrange flights home
• replace a stolen or lost passport .
• provide you with information regarding victims’ assistance groups in France

Domestic Violence:  U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact  the Embassy for assistance.

Tourism:  The tourism industry is generally regulated and rules with regard to best practices and safety inspections are regularly enforced. Hazardous areas/activities are identified with appropriate signage and professional staff is typically on hand in support of organized activities. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is widely available throughout the country. Outside of a major metropolitan center, it may take more time for first responders and medical professionals to stabilize a patient and provide life-saving assistance. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance . 

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties:   You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. Individuals establishing a business or practicing a profession that requires additional permits or licensing should seek information from the competent local authorities, prior to practicing or operating a business.

Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the U.S., regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on  crimes against minors abroad  and the  Department of Justice  website.

Arrest Notification:  If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. French authorities will not routinely notify the Embassy unless you request them to do so. See our  webpage  for further information.

Penalties for possessing, using, or trafficking in illegal drugs in France are severe.

Convicted offenders can expect long jail sentences and heavy fines. 

In France and Monaco, driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol could land you immediately in jail.

Flying Drones:  The use of drones and drone footage in France is highly regulated. It is against the law in France to operate drones over public spaces (including museums, parks, streets) in urban areas and near airports, military bases, prisons, nuclear plants, and large gatherings such as outdoor concerts and parades. The privacy of individuals captured in drone footage is paramount. Violators can be arrested and subject to fines of up to 75,000 euros and/or one-year imprisonment. Review the  information sheet  provided by the French government concerning hobbyist drone flights.

You should contact the  Embassy of France  or one of  France's consulates  in the United States for specific information regarding customs requirements. Please see our  Customs Information .

There are strict regulations concerning temporary importation or exportation from France of items such as firearms, antiquities, medications, business equipment, merchandise samples, and other items.

French Foreign Legion:  U.S. citizens interested in joining the French Foreign Legion (FFL) should be aware that the cognitive and physical tests for acceptance are extremely challenging.

Ensure you have access to sufficient funds to return home should your candidature be refused.

Successful candidates report that the FFL provides a new identity and retains their U.S. passport during a long probation period. Lack of access to your passport can complicate routine or emergency travel.

Faith-Based Travelers:  See our following webpages for details:

Faith-Based Travel Information

International Religious Freedom Report  – see country reports

Human Rights Report  – see country reports

Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers

Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

LGBTI Travelers:  There are no legal restrictions on same-sex sexual relations or the organization of LGBTQI+ events in France.

See our  LGBTQI+ travel information  page and section 6 of the  Department of State's Human Rights report  for further details.

Travelers with Disabilities:  The law in France prohibits discrimination against persons with physical, sensory, intellectual or mental disabilities, and the law is enforced.  Social acceptance of persons with disabilities in public is as prevalent as in the United States.  Expect accessibility to be limited in public transportation and general infrastructure.

Visitors to France should expect accessibility to be limited in public transportation (subway, specifically), lodging, communication/information, and general infrastructure. Getting around French cities can be challenging for those with mobility issues. Many sidewalks are narrow and uneven, and cobblestone streets make access difficult, though major tourist sites generally have better facilities.

Although the Paris Metro is a very efficient method for traveling throughout central Paris, most stations are not readily accessible for people with disabilities. However, many Parisian buses and tramways are equipped with lowering platforms for travelers with limited-mobility, or sight- or hearing-disabled. Taxis are also a good mode of transportation.

The English-language  Paris Visitors Bureau and Explore France websites contains additional information specifically designed for travelers with special mobility needs. For further information, e-mail  U.S. Embassy Paris , U.S. Consulate General Marseille , or U.S. Consulate General Strasbourg .

Students:  See our  Students Abroad  page and  FBI travel tips .

Women Travelers:  See our travel tips for  Women Travelers .

Dial 15 to connect to emergency medical services or dial 112 to reach an operator.

Ambulance services are widely available, though English is not widely spoken.

Medical care is comparable to that found in the United States.

Except for emergency services, you may be required to pay for service prior to receiving treatment in France. Be sure to obtain a “Feuille de Soins” for later reimbursement from your health care provider.

You may be refused routine care under local law if you lack the ability to pay.

Foreigners with terminal illnesses may be denied treatment if treatment is available in their home country.

We do not pay medical bills.  Be aware that U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas. Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance. Hospital bills are not itemized.

Medical Insurance:  Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See our webpage for more information on insurance coverage overseas. Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for more information on the type of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas.

We strongly recommend  supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.

Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging with your doctor’s prescription. Check with the  government of France  to ensure the medication is legal in France.

Vaccinations:  Be up-to-date on all  vaccinations recommended  by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Further health information:

• World Health Organization
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  (CDC)

Air Quality: Visit AirNow Department of State for information on air quality at U.S. Embassies and Consulates.

The U.S. Embassy maintains a list of doctors and hospitals . We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety:  Roads are generally comparable to those in the United States, but traffic engineering and driving habits pose special dangers.

Lane markings and sign placements may not be clear. Drivers should be prepared to make last-minute maneuvers.

Right-of-way rules differ from those in the United States. Unless specifically indicated otherwise, drivers entering intersections from the right have priority over those on the left, even when entering relatively large boulevards from small side streets.

Bicycles, motorcycles, scooters, and electric skateboards are prevalent on streets, crosswalks and sometimes sidewalks. They have legal priority and often do not respect traffic signals.

On major highways, there are service stations at least every 25 miles. Service stations are not as common on secondary roads in France as they are in the United States.

Highway toll stations may not accept U.S. credit cards. For non-residents, the simplest way to pay is with cash euros at the toll lane marked for that purpose. Do not attempt to use a credit card if it is the only one you have in your possession in case the machine does not return your card.

Traffic Laws:  While French cities actively encourage bicycle rentals through widely available city-sponsored systems, you should be cautious, especially in a busy and unfamiliar urban environment. Helmets are neither required nor readily available near rental stations. If you plan to ride a bicycle in France, you should bring your own helmet. Though bicycles, scooters and electric skateboards must follow local traffic laws, or risk fines, they often do not do so and can pose a danger to drivers and pedestrians.  Many paths are clearly marked for this form of transportation in  larger cities.

Pedestrian accidents occur when a pedestrian steps out into the street, often when a car or motorcycle is making a turn through a pedestrian crosswalk. Pedestrians should be cautious and aware of traffic even when they have a green walking signal since this is no guarantee against aggressive drivers. Do not assume cars will stop for pedestrians in a crosswalk.

Public Transportation:  Paris has an extensive and efficient public transportation system. The interconnecting system of buses, subways, and commuter rails is comparable to or better than that found in major U.S. cities. Similar transportation systems are found in all major French cities.

If you use any of France’s public transportation services, take particular care to retain your used or “validated” ticket until you exit the bus, subway, or train station completely, as it may be checked or required for exit. Children over four years of age must have a ticket.

Inspectors conduct intermittent, random checks and passengers who fail to present the correct validated ticket are subject to stiff and immediate fines.  Failing to sign and date or enclose photo (when required) on a tourist pass (Paris Visite) makes the pass invalid and the holder subject to a fine.

Inspectors may show no interest in explanations and no sympathy for an honest mistake. Failure to cooperate with inspectors may result in arrest.

Between cities, France has extensive rail service, which is safe and reliable. High-speed rail connects the major cities in France. Many cities are also served by frequent air service. Traveling by train is safer than driving.

See our  road safety page  for more information. Visit the website of the  French National Tourist Office  for specific information on French driver's permits, vehicle inspection, road tax, and mandatory insurance. See Embassy of France’s  driving in France  webpage for information on using U.S. driver’s licenses in France.

Aviation Safety Oversight:  The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the government of France’s Civil Aviation Authority as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of France’s air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the  FAA’s safety assessment page .

Maritime Travel:  Mariners planning travel to France should also check for  U.S. maritime advisories and alerts . Information may also be posted to the  U.S. Coast Guard homeport website , and the  NGA broadcast warnings website  (select “broadcast warnings.”)

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on  Twitter  and  Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in France .  For additional IPCA-related information, please see the  International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA )  report.

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Traveling to France? There are new rules. Here's what you need to know

Editor's Note

France is nothing if inconsistent in maintaining its COVID-19 entry protocols, having changed the process for obtaining the requisite digital health pass four times, now requiring a COVID-19 booster shot for visitors, reinstituting mask mandates and, just yesterday, instituting quarantine for unvaccinated visitors from certain countries, including the United States.

For American travelers heading to France soon or planning a trip in the future, here's what to expect as of Jan. 3.

For more TPG news delivered each morning to your inbox, sign up for our daily newsletter .

Entry requirements for fully vaccinated travelers

Entry rules to France depend on the country from which you are coming, designated by color, available here . The U.S. is currently a "red list country," and entry requirements are as follows.

Fully vaccinated travelers from the U.S. who are age 18 and older may enter the country by showing proof of vaccination, results of a negative COVID-19 test (PCR or antigen) taken within 48 hours prior to departure for France and a sworn statement attesting they do not have symptoms of COVID-19 nor have had contact with any confirmed cases of COVID-19.

Acceptable vaccination proof

Currently, France recognizes vaccines approved by the World Health Organization and European Medicines Agency, specifically Pfizer,  Moderna, AstraZeneca and Johnson & Johnson. Those who have received a full dose of a WHO-licensed vaccine not approved by the EMA require an additional single dose of an EMA-approved mRNA vaccine, either Pfizer or Moderna.

Travelers are considered fully vaccinated 28 days after receiving one dose of a single-dose vaccine, seven days after receiving a two-dose vaccine or seven days after receiving an additional dose of an EMA-approved  mRNA vaccine for those who received a WHO-licensed vaccine not approved by the EMA.

Per the U.S. Embassy in France, the  card issued by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is considered "sufficient proof of vaccination for entry."

Entry requirements for unvaccinated travelers

Currently, unvaccinated and partially vaccinated travelers are only able to enter France if they possess a "compelling reason for travel," including students and those transiting France for less than 24 hours. A full list of pressing grounds for travel to/from "red" countries is available from the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs, but note the majority of exceptions are not applicable to Americans.

Unvaccinated Americans approved for entry must show a negative COVID-19 test (PCR or antigen) performed within 48 hours before departure and are also subject to a second test upon arrival. They must quarantine for 10 days, followed by an additional test.

Ahead of travel, unvaccinated travelers must complete a screening form .

Related: Applications for France's digital health pass are temporarily closed

Rules for children

Testing, vaccination and booster requirements apply to travelers who are 12 and older, and American visitors must show results of a negative PCR or antigen test taken within 48 hours to enter the country.

"Travelers under age 11 are treated as vaccinated regardless of their vaccination status and do not need to have a COVID test. Travelers ages 11 through 17 are treated as vaccinated if they are accompanied by a fully vaccinated parent or guardian," says the embassy. "Travelers in this age group traveling independently must meet the rules applicable to adult travelers."

French health pass

A health pass is required to access most indoor public spaces, including restaurants/bars, museums, entertainment venues and sporting facilities. It's also necessary for long-distance travel throughout the country on public transit. A health pass can be obtained for $40 by showing proof of vaccination at a local French pharmacy on a walk-in basis. Unvaccinated or partially vaccinated travelers can obtain a temporary 24-hour pass by taking a rapid antigen test at a pharmacy. Temporary pass holders will need to procure a new pass after the 24-hour period.

The French government previously announced they expect use of the "pass sanitaire" to continue through at least July.

As of Jan. 15, all travelers to France age 18 and older must show proof of a COVID-19 booster shot taken within five to seven months after their final dose of a COVID-19 vaccine in order to retain an active health pass. Prior to this date, the booster is only required for those 65 and older.

Mask mandate

Face masks remain mandatory for all those in indoor public spaces throughout the country and are required outdoors in Paris as of Dec. 31, 2021, including in markets. Outdoor mask requirements vary throughout France, so consult local authorities before visiting your destination.

Bottom line

French officials have modified their entry rules based on COVID-19 developments. Consult the U.S. Embassy and French Ministry for the most up-to-date information.

Both the U.S. Department of State and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have issued Level 4 travel warnings for France, advising Americans to avoid travel to the country.

Other countries, including the United Arab Emirates and Israel , have banned travel for unvaccinated persons, in addition to requiring a COVID-19 booster for vaccinated tourists.

Related: My experience entering Israel as a vaccinated tourist

Have a Trip to Paris Planned? What to Know About Ongoing Protests

After a series of pension protests throughout the first half of the year, french citizens again took to the streets after a police officer killed a 17-year-old boy. here’s the latest information..

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In France, riot police have been repeatedly called in as tensions escalate.

Photo by Shutterstock

A fresh wave of protests took place throughout France in late June and early July after a police officer killed a 17-year-old delivery driver during a traffic stop. The teenager, named Nahel, was of North African descent and died on Tuesday, June 27, sparking outrage throughout the country.

In the days following the killing, riots broke out in dozens of cities throughout France, with incidents of arson, clashes, and looting, the Associated Press reported . After six nights of unrest and more than 3,400 arrests, the violence appeared to be abating as of this week, AP reported.

In its latest update , security risk and crisis management firm Crisis24 notes that “protests and widespread incidents of violence in reaction to the June 27 police-involved killing of a teenager near Paris have reduced significantly, as of July 5. Authorities reported that Paris and other urban centers were relatively calm overnight July 3–4 and 4–5. Police announced significant reductions of violent incidents, arrests, and injuries, after a peak on June 30.”

According to Crisis24, several political organizations have called for additional marches on July 8 . “These demonstrations are likely to attract thousands of attendees. The locations and timings of events are not yet known,” the firm stated. “Tensions will likely remain high nationwide as authorities prepare for possible rioting in the coming days.”

The most recent unrest comes in the wake of numerous rounds of protests that have been taking place in Paris and around France since the start of the year. Previously, demonstrators had been voicing their opposition to French President Emmanuel Macron’s new pension plan, which pushes the retirement age from 62 to 64 and was enacted into law on April 14. Those protests had become more muted recently, having dwindled from gatherings with tens of thousands of participants earlier this spring to much smaller groups of several hundred citizens.

Heaping piles of garbage were removed from the Paris streets at the end of March and in early April when a garbage collectors’ strike that had been in effect since March 6 was finally called off; the strike was in response to their newly proposed retirement age, up to 59 from 57.

A new round of escalations could again disrupt services such as public transportation.

Is it safe to travel to Paris?

The U.S. Embassy in Paris has issued a “security alert,” warning that there are ongoing demonstrations in and around the Paris region and other major French cities “following the June 27 police shooting in the Parisian suburb of Nanterre.”

“These demonstrations, along with spontaneous protests, are expected to continue and may turn violent. U.S. citizens should avoid mass gatherings and areas of significant police activity as they can turn violent and result in clashes,” the U.S. Embassy states.

The embassy also reports that some cities in France are imposing curfews and advises that U.S. citizens avoid demonstrations and areas with increased police activity and monitor the news for updates. (English-language French media outlets include France 24 , RFI, and the Local. ) The locations of protests are not often known in advance, so it’s important to stay up to date on the latest.

As of July 6, 2023, the U.S. State Department’s France Travel Advisory remains unchanged at a Level 2 (indicating that travelers should continue to exercise increased caution). The U.S. Embassy cites the reasons as terrorism and civil unrest.

What should you do if you’re traveling to France? The U.S. State Department recommends that U.S. citizens in France “avoid areas around protests and demonstrations” as “past demonstrations have turned violent . . . in case of violence or property damage, French authorities may use chemical agents and water cannons to disperse crowds.” It also notes that “strikes can interfere with travel plans.”

For additional assistance, contact the U.S. Embassy in Paris at +33 (1) 43 12 22 22 or [email protected].

Are flights to France, transportation services, and other businesses affected by the protests?

Following the latest unrest, the public transit system “remains disrupted, with bus, tram, and rail services in several major cities suspending or limiting operations,” Crisis24 reports. In the Paris region, the transport operator RATP has at time suspended some bus, tram, metro, and RER train lines, so be sure to check the latest before making any travel plans using public transit.

During the pension protests, among those that had been walking out on the job were air traffic controllers, which most recently planned strike actions on May 1 and 2. As a result, the French Civil Aviation Authority asked all airlines to reduce their flight schedules to and from Paris Orly airport and several other French airports on May 1 and May 2.

During the strike, Air France operated all of its long-haul flights, all flights to and from Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport, and about 70 percent of flights between Paris-Orly and other French airports. Passengers who experienced a flight cancellation due to strike activity could opt for either a future flight credit or a full refund, according to Air France.

During strike actions, “last-minute delays and cancellations cannot be ruled out,” Air France said.

Another round of air traffic controller strikes has not yet been announced or scheduled but shouldn’t be ruled out by travelers.

In addition to worker strikes that can affect services such as public transport systems, the ongoing protests in France can create traffic and transportation congestion and service interruptions in and around major cities, including potential delays in travel between downtown and the main Paris airports, Charles de Gaulle and Orly.

Crisis24 advises travelers to confirm all transportation reservations. “Do not check out of accommodations until onward travel is confirmed,” the firm notes, adding that travelers should allow extra time for travel in major French cities.

As of press time, major museums and attractions in Paris, including the Louvre , Musée d’Orsay , Eiffel Tower , and Sacré Coeur , remain open to visitors during regular operating hours—although the Louvre and Eiffel Tower have both temporarily closed during protests, so be sure to check daily with regards to opening hours and operations.

Graffiti in Paris in the aftermath of a police killing of a teenager named Nahel.

Lyndsey Matthews

What does it feel like on the ground in Paris right now?

The riots have “definitely died down,” says Lyndsey Matthews, AFAR’s senior commerce editor, who was in Paris at the height of the latest round of uprisings in early July following the police killing. “When I was there, I saw nothing. I noticed a few shops on the Champs-Elysées were boarded up and they apparently cleared the Place de Concorde after I was there Friday evening, but it wasn’t noticeable as a tourist.” On the average day in Paris, “it feels fine on the ground, honestly,” says Lindsey Tramuta, a freelance writer and frequent AFAR contributor based in Paris. “I would recommend travelers keep following the news about it and if and when there are additional strikes or demonstrations planned, which are announced in advance, that they avoid those areas.”

What are the 2023 Paris protests about?

The latest unrest in Paris and throughout France followed the police shooting of Nahel, a 17-year-old boy of Algerian heritage, in the Paris suburb of Nanterre, an incident that was captured on video, CNN reported . The killing surfaced concerns and outrage about ongoing issues of racism and poverty in France, and the subsequent uprisings prompted President Macron to ban large-scale events in France as tensions remain high.

The riots come in the wake of months of pension protests in Paris and throughout France that represent the most significant demonstrations since the Yellow Vests Movement (named after the fluorescent vests protesters wore during the demonstrations), which began in late 2018 and continued into early 2019. Back then, French people were opposed to President Macron’s fuel tax hike (instituted to reduce emissions) and to the government’s economic policies and the high cost of living.

In 2023, French citizens are once again fed up—this time that Macron’s government implemented Article 49.3 of the Constitution to pass a bill without a vote in the Assemblée Nationale that pushes back the retirement age from 62 to 64 for most workers and requires that citizens have worked for at least 43 years in order to access a full pension. The global average retirement age in 2020 was 64.2 for men and 63.4 for women, according to the most recent data available from the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) .

President Macron explained the reasoning behind the new policy, stating, “People know that yes, on average, you have to work a little longer . . . because otherwise we won’t be able to finance our pensions properly,” the Associated Press reported .

But as Lisa Bryant of NPR’s Morning Edition notes , “The French are fiercely protective of their universal health care and generous pensions. It’s a choice society has made: Work hard, pay high taxes, but also retire at a relatively young age with a high standard of living.”

And now French citizens are rising up again in opposition to police brutality and discrimination against marginalized communities.

This story was originally published on March 21, 2023, and has been updated to include current information.

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Is Paris Safe in 2024 and Beyond? And Should You Travel to France Now?

Last Updated on February 21, 2024

Many travelers want to know whether Paris is still safe to visit– and their concerns are understandable. Following isolated terrorist attacks and occasionally-violent street demonstrations in recent years, as well as a global pandemic, worries about the safety of the French capital have become more common.

But the truth is that Paris generally remains a safe destination, and with some precautions in mind all visitors should feel comfortable traveling to the capital. Read on for the latest information on travel advisories and precautions to take when visiting France, and for my full safety tips for anyone planning a trip to Paris.

I start by covering some of the topics most likely to be on travelers’ minds, followed by more long-term safety issues and concerns. You can use the “Explore This Article” tab below to directly navigate to the information of most immediate interest and use to you.

Explore This Article

Current Safety Advisories for Paris & France

The US State Department currently shows a yellow, Level 2 travel warning for France, corresponding to the advice “Exercise increased caution” and citing risks including terrorism and potential civil unrest. See the full advisory here .

Traveling from another country? To see current safety advisories for your country of origin and specific safety tips from your Embassy or Consulate in France, see this page.

Statistically Speaking, Paris Remains Very Safe

The Economist-sponsored “Safe Cities” report for 2021 ranked Paris as the 23rd-safest major city in the world out of 60– making it almost exactly middling. And while the city has admittedly taken a significant knockdown in global city safety ratings due to recent terrorist attacks and other factors, violent crime is still generally uncommon in the capital.

OSAC, the US Bureau of Diplomatic Security,  notes tha t tourists are generally safe in the city, and that street crime such as pickpocketing remains the primary concern. These notes are particularly striking and paint a clearer picture of the sorts of crimes visitors need to be most on guard against:

According to the Violent Crime Risk Index (ViCRI), a resource for urban-level violence risk data and ratings, Paris ranks as a class 2 city on an 11-point index scale measuring homicide, aggravated assault, robbery, and rape risks. Street crime, however, is a concern, most notably in areas frequented by tourists. Consular officials throughout France report that U.S. travelers are frequently victims of pickpockets, swarm and grabs, or scams. (OSAC, France Country Security Report, available here )

To break it down a bit, Paris ranks a “2” on a scale reaching up to “11” when it comes to violent crime. Moreover, violent crimes rates in France are  roughly on par with Canada’s , and are three times lower than in the US.

According to French government statistics, even when taking into account deaths from terrorist attacks, the homicide rate in Paris per 1,000 inhabitants between 2015 and 2017 was only 0.019 (0.014 if you exclude the attacks).

You get my drift. Violent crime, and especially the sort that threatens lives, is relatively rare in Paris.  Gun violence there is astronomically lower than it is in comparably sized cities in the US.

And while the US State Department website advises that tourists remain aware of their surroundings and exercise caution due to potential terrorist threats, take note:  they don’t recommend cancelling your trip or avoiding the city.

My conclusion? Yes, there are some risks that can’t be denied.  Most large metropolitan cities, including London and New York, carry similar risks in our globalized world. Should you avoid setting foot in these places altogether?

Everyone has to make choices that they feel comfortable with, but from my perspective, you’d be greatly overestimating the dangers you face by doing so.

Pickpocketing is the Most Common Crime Affecting Tourists in Paris

I’ve talked about the unlikelihood of tourists becoming victims of violent crime in Paris. However, this doesn’t mean that you don’t risk being targeted for petty street crimes that can still make your trip a nightmare.

Pickpocketing is by far the biggest threat to visitors, so you should learn how thieves operate and take all the precautions necessary to avoid being targeted.

How to Avoid Pickpockets in Paris? 

Pickpockets operate in predictable and often highly organized ways, targeting tourists in crowded and popular areas. Often, they get away with your wallet or purse so quickly that you barely feel a thing. To keep this from happening, take these steps: In any crowded place (busy lines, congested metro cars, open spaces full of tourists snapping photos), take extra care with your belongings.

It’s best to carry a bag or purse that you can wear crisscrossed around your chest, with pockets and valuables hugged to your front and in plain view. If you wear a backpack, don’t leave wallets, cash, passports or other valuable items in the front compartments.

Only bring as much cash as you’ll likely need for the day, and maybe even less.  100 Euros or so is a good limit to aim for. Traveler’s checks can easily be exchanged for Euros at the American Express office on Rue Scribe (Metro: Opera).

If you must carry larger amounts of cash, consider wearing a money belt .

It’s always preferable to leave passports , large amounts of cash and other valuables in a hotel safe, if possible.

Never leave your bags or suitcases unattended , even for a minute or two. Not only do you run the risk of them being swiped up by thieves between two blinks of an eye: they can also be legally confiscated and destroyed by security forces, under current safety regulations in public spaces.

What About ATM Thefts and Other Scams? 

In addition to pickpockets, tourists are often targeted by scammers and thieves in other ways. ATMs/cashpoints are particularly vulnerable spots. Never allow anyone to linger nearby when you take out cash, and guard against prying eyes.

Never let anyone “help” you with a transaction at an ATM, or otherwise interfere with it. Ask the intrusive person to back off, and if they refuse, find another place to take out cash.

Around popular tourist attractions including the Sacre Coeur, the Louvre and the Eiffel Tower, merchants operating illegally are known to aggressively “persuade” tourists to buy their wares.

This often involves putting an object or trinket in your hand or inviting you to “try on” a bracelet.

{Our Top Tips for Avoiding Common Tourist Scams & Traps in Paris}

Once you give in, a demand for payment often follows. Avoid this by refusing all advances from such “vendors” and not allowing them to place any items in or on your hand.

General Safety Concerns: Putting Your Risks Into Perspective

With what seem to be frequent reports of violent incidents in the capital over the past few years, it can indeed feel scary to be a visitor these days. But there have been exaggerated accounts in some media outlets about the dangers tourists face when visiting Paris.

But in a modern world where there are many complex risks to weigh and negotiate all the time, it’s important to put those risks into perspective. It’s not about discounting potential danger. It’s about recognizing that life must go on– and that living in fear shrinks your world and its possibilities.

So before you cancel your trip or decide on another destination out of fear that you may be the victim of a terrorist attack or some other form of violent crime, read through my advice below.

As I’ve said elsewhere, Paris greatly depends on tourism to thrive as a city. It would be catastrophic to its livelihood to see too many people stay away and renounce all the capital has to offer out of a disproportionate sense of fear.

That said, staying informed about potential risks is an important part of feeling empowered as a traveler. Below are a few notes on recent incidents and safety concerns for tourists in the capital, with guidance on whether they warrant postponing or canceling your trip.

December Terrorist Attack Outside the Eiffel Tower

On December 3rd, 2023, an assailant armed with a knife and a hammer attacked and killed a German-Filipino tourist on the Quai de la Grenelle near the Eiffel Tower . Two other people, a British national and a French national, were injured in the attack.

According to Reuters, French President Emmanuel Macron characterised the events as a terrorist attack, after the 26-year-old suspect, a French national, was found to have released a video shortly before the attack pledging allegiance to the Islamic state. He is currently in custody, as are three other people connected to the suspect.

French authorities have not yet concluded whether the suspect was acting alone or not, though he was known to security services for potential social ties to known terrorists, according to the Associated Press. He had also been monitored for psychological problems.

Europe more broadly remains on high alert for what is says is an elevated risk of both coordinated and “lone wolf”-style terrorist attacks from Islamist militants, amid severe conflict in the Middle East.

Paris has also been significantly increasing its security measures in the run-up to the Paris Summer Olympics in 2024.

To our knowledge, no embassies have modified their safety advisories for France in response to the attack.

Covid-19 Cases & Deaths in France & Current Travel Safety Regulations

In France, according to updated  data from the French government , there have been over 40.1 million confirmed cases since January 2020.

As of January 15th, 2024, over 167,642 people have died from COVID-19 in France. Most patients were elderly and/or had pre-existing conditions.

Im recent months, daily hospitalizations and deaths have remained quite low compared to the acute phases of the pandemic in 2020 and 2021– owing in part to high vaccination levels, an ongoing booster-dose drive in the country, and potentially milder infections from the Omicron and subsequent variants.

On August 1st, 2022, France lifted most Covid-related restrictions on travel and travelers . There are no longer any paperwork or formalities to complete to arrive in mainland or overseas France, and no Covid-19 certificates or proof of vaccination are required at this time, irrespective of country or area of origin.

However, should a dangerous variant become of major concern, France reserves the right to reinstate health measures such as vaccine certificates or passes for travelers from at-risk countries.

You can find updated information on current entry requirements and restrictions for France at this page on the France Diplomacy website . Please do consult that site in addition to this page for the most recent guidelines; while we do aim to update this page as frequently as possible, the regulations have been changing frequently.

While it may indeed seem as if the pandemic is essentially over in France, regulations and restrictions might change quickly in the event of a new variant of concern or hospitals becoming overwhelmed in response to a spike in cases.

Make sure to watch the situation carefully if you plan to travel to France in the coming weeks and months, including from within Europe.

“Gilet Jaune” (Yellow Vest) Protests & French Transport Strikes

Starting in late December 2018, smaller groups of “gilets jaunes” (yellow vest) protestors  staged demonstrations in Paris, almost exclusively on Saturdays. Some saw demonstrators throw rocks, burn cars and break store windows. But starting in late May 2019, the protests simmered out , in part due to a much heavier police presence.

Since late 2019, the protests have occurred sporadically and at a much smaller scale. They are not currently a concern for travelers to the capital or elsewhere in France. Even when civil unrest was at its peak in 2018 and 2019, it’s important to remember that tourists have not been injured or otherwise endangered by these protests.

Protecting Your Health in Paris

No one intends to get sick or suffer from an accident while traveling, but preparing for such unfortunate events will give you peace of mind and save you from outlandish medical costs.

Many international travel insurance policies cover up to millions of dollars in medical costs and liabilities, and can offer peace of mind.  You can compare and purchase travel insurance policies here (via World Nomads).

[World Nomads provides travel insurance for travelers in over 100 countries. As an affiliate, we receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads using the link above. We do not represent World Nomads. This is information only and not a recommendation to buy travel insurance.]

Emergency Numbers to Keep With You in France If you run into a medical or other emergency, call one of the toll-free numbers below from any phone, and contact your embassy. It’s wise to print out these numbers and keep them with you at all times: Medical Emergencies & Accidents: 15 Fire brigade: 18 Police: 17 SOS Médecins (on-call doctors): 01 47 07 77 77 SOS Dentaire (dentists): 01 43 37 51 00 SOS burns: 01 58 41 41 41

Note that in most cases, calling “15” is the best thing to do in a medical emergency. If you have been the victim of a violent crime or other crime, it will be necessary to both inform the French police and to file a report with your embassy.

If you need a pharmacy in Paris, identify them by their green flashing crosses. Most neighborhoods in the city have at least one pharmacy within a few blocks’ radius. These pharmacies are open late or 24 hours a day , in case you need to seek advice from a pharmacist or purchase medical supplies late at night.

This can especially be useful to know if you’re traveling with a young baby or toddler, since young ones sometimes require quick treatment, and pharmacists are often able to provide expert advice or recommend and sell over-the-counter medications that you can’t buy directly off the shelves.

Safety for Pedestrians in Paris 

While Paris is generally a very pedestrian-friendly city– the local government has been working to increase the number of car-free zones around the capital in recent years– drivers can be aggressive, posing a danger to walkers.

My advice? Take a defensive approach when crossing streets and busy intersections, checking for cars even when the light is green and/or when you have the right of way.

In areas that appear to be pedestrian-only, watch out for cars and aggressive motorcylists: some areas that are “car-“free” still allow motorcyclists, service vehicles and cyclists.

What About Driving in Paris? 

I generally advise against trying to drive in central Paris. Parisian drivers can be aggressive and unpredictable (by many standards), and traffic conditions are often congested and unpleasant.

If you have to drive, your international driver’s license and insurance must be up to date. Also make sure you understand the local rules of the road.

And unless you’re used to European traffic circles, you should avoid, at all costs, driving around busy traffic circles such as the one at the Place de l’Etoile on the Avenue des Champs-Elysées.

If you do opt to take a taxi, whether within the city or to the airport and back, make sure you only use reputable companies. Never accept a ride from a taxi that doesn’t have an official “Taxi Parisien” sign atop its roof and a visible meter inside. You may be overcharged or otherwise scammed, if you do…

Read related : How to Use Airport Taxis in Paris (& Avoid Getting Overcharged)

Why to Register & Keep in Touch With Your Embassy

It’s always wise to register with your embassy ahead of your trip and to keep their contact details with you at all times.

In the event that your passport is lost or stolen, you experience a medical emergency or a crime, or are in the city at the time of a dangerous event, registering will ensure that you’ll be able to get in touch more quickly with your embassy and to receive help from them. This is a good list of world embassies and their contact details. 

Once at your embassy’s site, read through any relevant travel advisories for Paris and France and find out how to register as a citizen traveling abroad before your trip.

Are There Dangerous Places to Avoid in Paris?

I wish I could argue that Paris is entirely safe in all circumstances, but sadly, there are a few places that you’d probably be best off avoiding at night, especially for women and solo travelers.

Gangs are known to operate in some of these areas, and hate crimes have been reported around them in the past.

Take special caution late at night around the following metro stops and surrounding areas (and perhaps avoid altogether when traveling alone after dark) : Chatelet les Halles, Les Halles, Pigalle, Couronnes, Belleville, Place des Fetes, Porte de St Ouen, Porte de Clichy, Gare du Nord, Stalingrad, Jaures, and Crimée. Please note that this is not a definitive list: you should probably be cautious in all areas of the city after nightfall, or when crowds disperse.

Also note that this is NOT a list of so-called “no-go” zones in Paris. From my perspective (and it’s one shared by most locals), these simply don’t exist within the city limits.

All 20 arrondissements in Paris (city districts) are generally safe , as long as you take some precautions in the areas mentioned above, and do so everywhere at night. Remember, “posh” areas can be remarkably empty after dark, so paradoxically you may be more vulnerable in these.

Unfortunately, I also advise against traveling to the Northern suburbs of Paris after nightfall.  Violent crimes and hate crimes are more frequent in these areas, as is gang activity.

It pains me to advise this as I don’t wish to stigmatize any communities or places, but from a standpoint of tourist safety, these areas are probably best avoided at night.

Advice For Women, LGBTQ+ and Minority Travelers

While Paris is generally a tolerant and diverse place that is welcoming to people of all colors, creeds, sexual orientations and gender expressions, there are occasional cases of harassment or even assault.

Women , especially when traveling alone or in small groups, should take extra care at night, especially when alone. Avoid places with poor lighting and few people roaming the streets. Safety is in numbers.

Also, be aware that French men sometimes read smiles or extended eye contact as permission to flirt or make sexual advances. With strangers, it’s best to assume a neutral stance that clearly says “I’m not interested”.

If a man makes unwelcome or aggressive advances in the street or in other public places, firmly say “non”, refrain from smiling, and walk away. Call the police if you are followed or the harassment continues, and retreat to a public cafe or other crowded place if necessary.

People of color generally have nothing to fear in Paris, a city with remarkable ethnic diversity. Nevertheless, hate crimes are not unheard of.

If you are a victim of an attack that you feel is racially motivated, report it to the police, your embassy, and if necessary to French watchdog SOS Racisme: + 33 (0)1 40 35 36 55

Gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender and non-binary visitors are generally safe and welcomed in the capital, which harbors a large and vibrant LGBT community. That said, there has sadly been a spike in reports of homophobic attacks in Paris over the past couple of years, and in the areas I mention above as being potentially less safe after dark, it is advisable to be extra cautious.

Read my guide on homophobia in Paris over at TripSavvy for tips on staying safe, including for LGBT couples. If you are attacked, report it to the police and to your embassy, and state clearly if you believe the attack was a hate crime.

Related: How to Celebrate LGBT Pride Month in Paris? 

Advice for Jewish and Muslim Travelers

Jewish visitors may have read that Paris has become unsafe for them. It can’t be denied that antisemitic attacks have been on the rise in recent years, with targets including synagogues, places of business and Jewish individuals.

Sadly, from 2018 such attacks are reported to have risen sharply . And in 2023, they have unfortunately skyrocketed in France , against the backdrop of the Israel-Gaza conflict that broke out in October. As a result, it pains me to say that visitors should take extra precautions at this time.

These attacks have been met with increased police protection of Jewish schools, places of worship and other sites important to the Jewish community.

While safety concerns are warranted, I want to stress that Paris has one of the largest Jewish communities in the world: one with a deep history that’s very much part of the cultural fabric of the city.

The vibe is generally welcoming and you shouldn’t fear visiting the city. It’s also important to know that there have been no recent reports of attacks against tourists of Jewish faith (nor am I aware of any to have occured in recent history). Nevertheless, it’s probably a good idea to take some precautions, particularly in the areas I mention above.

While I regret advising it, it may be best, late at night and in the aforementioned areas, to remove visibly religious symbols and clothing items. Always report it to the police and to your embassy if you are a victim of an antisemitic attack. SOS Racisme can also help.

Muslim visitors may also fear attacks from Islamophobic individuals . Since 2015, there has been, according to numerous organizations, a sharp rise in attacks on Muslim places of worship and individuals.

Tourists of Muslim faith should not fear visiting the capital, however. Again, there is a large community here and most people are welcoming.

As always, though, if you experience harassment or violence make sure to report it to the police, your embassy, and perhaps to SOS Racisme: (+ 33 (0)1 40 35 36 55).

While attacks on tourists of Muslim faith are exceedingly rare, it is important for victims to be heard, have their experience accounted for, and to seek the help they need.

*Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you book products or services though this site, it comes at no cost to you, but will help fund more free, in-depth content here at Paris Unlocked. Thank you. 

Courtney Traub is the Founder and Editor of Paris Unlocked. She’s a longtime Paris resident who now divides her time (as well as she can manage) between the French capital and Norwich, UK. Co-author of the 2012 Michelin Green Guide to Northern France & the Paris Region, she has been interviewed as an expert on Paris and France by the BBC, Australian Broadcasting Corporation, Le Figaro, Matador Network and other publications. Courtney has also written and reported stories for media outlets including Radio France Internationale, The Christian Science Monitor, Women’s Wear Daily and The Associated Press. In addition to going down various rabbit holes of curiosity when it comes to French culture, history, food and art, Courtney is a scholar of literature and cultural history whose essays and reviews have appeared in various forums.

11 thoughts on “ Is Paris Safe in 2024 and Beyond? And Should You Travel to France Now? ”

can one travel a few days bw 16-23 dec 2019, flying from paris to nice, then flying back to paris without too much trouble or expense?

Yes, that’s entirely feasible. The flight is only about an hour long and many low-cost carriers offer very good fares if you book in advance. Check Easyjet, Iberia, and even Air France for sales on that route. Bon voyage!

This is positive news. Thanks for the update. Hopes are high that things return to normalcy soon. I love to travel to France during the summer, and I think it will be easier by then. I do go through travel blogs to understand the precautions we need to take enough steps to travel safely.

Considering that I want to travel to Europe one day this really helps me. Who doesn’t want to save money especially when you’re already on a trip. Thanks for the tips.

The topic of this blog is a question in my heart right now. I am eager to know this since I am getting bored at my home. Finally I came to an answer that yes it is safe to travel to France now. I will know find the list of best places to visit in France and after that I will start the process of online France Visa UK so that I can get it one time for my travelling with my kids and family.

I am from Singapore and am considering visiting France with my wife and 2 toddlers (ages 2 and 4) at the end of this year 2021 for Christmas. Thought it would be nice to let me kids experience a winter Christmas for a change. However I am concerned with how French people or Parisians view Asian tourists. Do they stigmatise them given how COVID-19 has been dubbed the “China virus” in the US? And are there any safe distancing measures in place for restaurants or museums in France (e.g. dine in no more than 2 pax at a table etc)? Are there any other pointers I should be aware of if we want to explore visiting beyond Paris to other parts of France during December? Thanks!

Hi Eric, thanks for reading and for your comment. While prejudice does sadly exist in Paris/France, tourists are very rarely the subject of attacks and harassment, and you can be rest assured that with some sensible precautions, you will feel safe and secure traveling there. I do understand your anxiety, but please know that Paris in particular is an incredibly diverse, cosmopolitan city, and again, as long as you follow some essential safety tips and guidelines , you have nothing to fear.

As to your second question, yes, there are currently safety measures in France to prevent the spread of coronavirus. “Health passes”, or vaccine passports, are required to enter most public spaces (or visitors must show proof of negative tests). Masks are also still required in all indoor public spaces including public transportation, shops, museums etc. You’ll find all the relevant, updated info in the link above.

Have a wonderful, safe trip, and thanks again for reading! –Courtney

This article is so helpful and thank you for your time in writing this. I am from the US and traveling to Paris with my boyfriend February 2022. We both are fully vaccinated and may get booster shots if recommended to travel Paris. However, friends are telling me that France might go in lockdown again. What are your thoughts?

So glad to know you’ve found this helpful, Jessica. I wish I could predict what might happen next, but the Omicron variant of the virus is a real wild card. I don’t think anyone knows what might happen in the coming weeks and months in terms of travel restrictions. If you’re not comfortable with the uncertainty of that, I do recommend delaying your trip. Typically, since the pandemic began winter and spring have proven tough, with a reprieve in late spring through early fall. Perhaps if at all possible it would be best to try to reschedule your trip for that period? All the best!

My husband and I are visiting France in late March/early April 2022, spending time in Paris, Bordeaux, and the Dordogne. Your site has been so helpful as we plan our trip. We are both fully vaccinated against COVID and received our boosters in mid-October. As I understand the current vaccine pass requirements, we are okay to travel to France (we’ll need to get the vaccine pass either before we leave or when we arrive). Is that right? Thanks for your help.

I’m sorry to bother you as I know you yourself asked a question you would like answered….my husband and I are traveling to Paris late May. We are fully vaccinated and boosted, what is the “vaccine pass” you are referring to? Thank you in advance for your reply

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Exercise a high degree of caution in France due to the elevated threat of terrorism.

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"Attack emergency" alert

On March 24, 2024, the Prime Minister of France raised the security threat level within the “Vigipirate” plan to “urgence attentat” (“attack emergency”). This is the highest level in the Vigipirate plan, a set of measures to prepare and protect the population and public places. The decision was made following a terrorist attack in Moscow claimed by the Islamic State.

Always be aware of your surroundings when in public places. Be particularly alert during public gatherings and demonstrations.

If you are in France:

• expect enhanced security measures and an increased police presence at the border and in public places
• monitor local media for the most recent information
• follow the instructions of local authorities

Vigipirate plan – Government of France (in French)

Olympic and Paralympic Games

The Olympic Games will take place in Paris from July 26 to August 11, followed by the Paralympic Games from August 28 to September 8, 2024.

Public events will take place across France starting on May 8 and will continue until the opening ceremony.

If you plan to travel to France during this time, plan your travel accordingly.

During the Olympic Games, especially in Paris, you should expect:

• an increased presence of security forces
• major disruptions to traffic and movement
• large crowds and public gatherings

Useful links

• Games-related information and advice for Canadians
• Olympic and Paralympic Games Paris 2024 – official site

There is a threat of terrorism in Europe. Terrorists have carried out attacks in several European cities.

Over the past few years in France, several opportunistic and premeditated attacks have occurred. These have resulted in many deaths and injuries. Further attacks are likely.

Vigipirate plan

The Vigipirate plan is a set of measures established by the French government to prepare and protect the French population, infrastructure and institutions in the event of an attack. The aim is also to allow rapid deployment of intervention measures if necessary.

As part of this plan, the government maintains a 3-level public alert system for terrorism. Changes in the threat level are communicated online and through local and national media.

Operation sentinelle

Operation Sentinelle allows the deployment of military brigades in public places to patrol and deter terrorist acts. Enhanced security measures have been deployed in various strategic locations, including:

• transport hubs
• public places
• tourist locations, especially in Paris

Expect an increased police or military presence in public places, including some tourist locations, particularly in Paris.

Attacks can occur anywhere. Terrorists may target:

• government buildings and those of local authorities
• schools/universities
• places of worship
• places dedicated to culture, such as exhibition galleries, museums, concert halls and theatres
• airports, railway stations and other transportation hubs and networks
• public areas such as tourist attractions, monuments, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, shopping centres, markets, hotels and other sites frequented by foreigners

While in France:

• always be aware of your surroundings when in public places
• be particularly vigilant if attending large gatherings such as sporting events and religious celebrations or other public celebrations
• Information on the terrorist threat in France - Ministry of the Interior (in French)
• How to react in case of a terrorist attack - Government of France (in French)
• Social media accounts of the Ministry of the Interior - Ministry of the Interior (in French)
• Vigipirate  – General secretary of defense and national security (in French)

Petty crime

Petty crimes, such as pickpocketing, and purse and mobile phone snatching are common.

Thieves are very skilled. They often act in groups and are often minors. They may use various techniques to divert your attention and steal your belongings.

Thieves are mainly active in large cities and busy places, such as:

• the main tourist sites
• department stores
• restaurants and patios
• hotel lobbies
• public transport, in particular the Paris metro and the Île-de-France regional express network (RER) lines linking the capital to its surroundings

Violent crimes

Violent crimes are rarer, but still occur.

Tourists are sometimes victims of violent attacks by groups of young people who want to rob them. These attacks usually occur :

• around major tourist attractions
• near railway stations
• on trains of the Île-de-France regional express network (RER) connecting the capital to its surroundings

Assaults can also occur outside night-time establishments and in more isolated areas at night.

Residential break-ins

Residential break-ins occur, especially in large cities and coastal areas. Burglars sometimes target houses or holiday rental apartments.

• be vigilant, particularly when approached by strangers
• ensure that your belongings, including passports and other travel documents, are secure at all times
• avoid showing signs of affluence and carrying large sums of cash
• limit the use of mobile phones on public transportation and in crowded areas to ensure you remain aware of your surroundings and to avoid attracting attention
• don’t keep your credit, debit cards and cash in the same place
• never leave your bags unsupervised
• choose well-secured accommodation and make sure you lock doors and windows at night and when you’re away

Parked vehicles and vehicles on the road

Vehicle break-ins are frequent. Theft of parked cars or their contents is particularly common on beach roads in the south of France and at highway rest stops throughout the country, especially during the summer, when there is a high number of travellers.

• Leave nothing in view in the vehicle
• Use secure parking facilities
• Be particularly vigilant when renting automobiles, as rented vehicles are a target of choice

Drivers are often tricked into stopping their cars by thieves who either obstruct the road or distract the driver by flashing their headlights. They may also pretend that you have a flat tire or even puncture a tire themselves. Once the vehicle is stopped, the thieves seize the opportunity to steal a bag or other valuable objects.

• Beware of any person who waves at you to stop on the highway
• Be especially vigilant when stopped at traffic lights, as bags are often snatched from the front passenger seat by thieves travelling on scooters
• Keep windows closed and doors locked at all times

Victims of crime

If you’re a victim of theft, go to the nearest police station to report the crime. Keep a copy of your theft report, as you will need it if you wish to make a claim to your insurer. If the incident takes place in the metro, a metro officer can direct you to the nearest police station.

You can complete an online pre-complaint for certain types of minor crime, such as property theft, before going to the police station. This may speed up the process once you get there.

• Prevention advice for tourists - Préfecture de police de Paris
• Online pre-complaint - Ministry of the Interior (in French)

Bomb threats

Since October 2023, there have been a number of bomb threats sent to public places across France.

Bomb threats and hoaxes can target any location, including:

• tourist areas
• shopping centres
• transportation hubs
• government facilities
• religious institutions

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

Credit card and ATM fraud

Credit card and ATM fraud occurs.

When using debit or credit cards:

• pay careful attention if other people are handling your cards
• use ATMs located in public areas or inside a bank or business
• avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature
• cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN
• check for any unauthorized transaction on your account statements

Cybercrime occurs. Perpetrators may compromise public Wi-Fi networks to steal credit card or personal information.

• Avoid using unsecured public Wi-Fi networks
• Avoid making purchases on unencrypted websites
• Be cautious when posting information on social media
• Be particularly vigilant when contacting or meeting individuals known over the internet

Overseas fraud

Demonstrations

Demonstrations occur frequently. They are usually planned as permission from the local authorities is required. However, unauthorized and spontaneous demonstrations also take place.

Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

Radical activists and vandals have a history of using aggressive and violent tactics during demonstrations in order to cause damage and provoke a strong response from the police. They sometimes throw stones, smoke grenades, bottles and other debris at rallies. The police normally respond with tear gas to disperse the crowds.

• Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• Follow the instructions of local authorities
• Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Strikes and pressure tactics occur regularly, particularly in key sectors such as transport. These strikes can sometimes complicate travel and disrupt public services.

• Consult local media to be aware of strikes that may affect your stay or travel plans
• In the event of a transport strike, plan extra time to get to your destination

Swimming, boating and water safety

Coastal waters can be dangerous. Always obey warning flags at beaches.

The main warning flags used in France are:

• Green: calm waters, swimming is allowed
• Yellow: agitated waters, swim with precautions
• Red: dangerous waters, swimming is prohibited
• Purple: contaminated waters or presence of dangerous aquatic species, swimming is prohibited

In autumn and winter, be cautious when walking on the shore, as waves can be unpredictable, breaking further than expected and causing strong undertows.

• Avoid visiting beaches or coastal areas during periods of severe weather warnings
• Look out for signs warning of cliff erosion and falling rocks
• Don’t dive into unknown waters, as hidden rocks or shallow depths can cause serious injury or death
• Exercise caution and follow the advice of the local authorities

Recreational boating

If you are planning to go boating:

• know the capacity of your boat (people and weight) and don’t exceed it
• know the navigation rules
• follow safe practices for all activities on the water: personal watercraft, water-skiing and towed devices, diving or swimming, fishing, etc.
• equip your boat with a VHF marine radio that will generate your position in case of emergency
• be prepared for emergencies

Search and rescue missions in France are carried out by the Regional Operational Surveillance and Rescue Centres (CROSS). In case of emergency, contact the centre on VHF radio channel 16 or by dialling 196.

• Surveillance and rescue at sea - Ministry of the Sea (in French)
• Water safety abroad

Mountain activities

Mountain activities, such as hiking, can be dangerous, especially if they are not well prepared. Trails are not always marked and weather conditions can change rapidly, even in summer.

In winter, heavy snowfall can make it difficult to reach some villages and ski centres. Roads may become impassable. There is also a risk of avalanches, some of which can be fatal.

If you intend to go hiking, mountaineering or skiing:

• never do so alone and do not part with your hiking companions
• buy travel insurance that includes helicopter rescue and medical evacuation
• ensure that your physical condition is good enough to meet the challenges of your activity
• do not venture off marked trails or slopes
• ensure that you’re adequately equipped
• stay informed about weather and other conditions that may pose a hazard
• inform a family member or friend of your itinerary
• know the symptoms of acute altitude sickness, which can be fatal
• obtain detailed information on your activity and on the environment in which you will be doing it before setting out
• Information on mountain conditions - Association nationale pour l'étude de la neige et des avalanches (ANENA) (in French)
• Specialised mountain units - Gendarmerie nationale (in French)
• Avalanche forecasts and warnings - European Avalanche Warning Service (EAWS)

Road safety

French roads are well maintained.

Drive carefully and respect the Highway Code.

Public transportation

Urban and intercity public transportation is reliable. When using these types of transport, make sure you validate your ticket and keep it until the end of your journey. The authorities carry out regular random checks and you may be fined if you do not have a validated ticket.

There is a problem of illegal taxis in Paris airports and train stations. These scammers charge much higher rates than the official ones.

• Ignore direct solicitations when leaving the airport or train station
• Use only official taxis or a trusted ride-sharing app
• Don’t share a taxi with strangers

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the French authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the  Foreign Representatives in Canada .

• Schengen area

France is a Schengen area country. Canadian citizens do not need a visa for travel to countries within the Schengen area. However, visa-free travel only applies to stays of up to 90 days in any 180-day period. Stays are cumulative and include visits to any Schengen area country.

If you plan to stay in the Schengen area for a longer period of time, you will need a visa. You must contact the high commission or embassy of the country or countries you are travelling to and obtain the appropriate visa(s) prior to travel.

• Foreign Representatives in Canada

Temporary border controls

The French government has reintroduced internal border controls at certain ports of entry. You may be required to pass through immigration controls when entering France, even if arriving from another Schengen area country.

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for at least 3 months beyond the date you expect to leave the Schengen area.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports

Tourist visa: not required for stays up to 90 days in any 180-day period Long-stay or residency visa: required for stays longer than 90 days Work permit: required Student visa: required for stays longer than 90 days

More information on Visas - Government of France

Other entry requirements

Customs officials may ask you to show them a return or onward ticket and proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay.

Children and travel

To leave France, any child under the age of 18 who normally resides in France must be accompanied by at least one parent. Children travelling without at least one parent must be in possession of:

• an authorization to leave the country signed by one of the parents
• a photocopy of the signing parent’s identification
• More information on the authorization to leave the country - French administration services
• More about travelling with children

Yellow fever

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

Relevant Travel Health Notices

• Global Measles Notice - 13 March, 2024
• Zika virus: Advice for travellers - 31 August, 2023
• COVID-19 and International Travel - 13 March, 2024

This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.

Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your  routine vaccinations , as per your province or territory , are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary. 

Yellow fever is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.

Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.

• There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.

Country Entry Requirement*

• Proof of vaccination is not required to enter this country.

Recommendation

• Vaccination is not recommended.

* It is important to note that country entry requirements may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.

About Yellow Fever

Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada

Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) is a risk in some areas of this destination. It is a viral disease that affects the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord). It is spread to humans by the bite of infected ticks or occasionally when unpasteurized milk products are consumed.

Travellers to areas where TBE is found may be at higher risk  during April to November, and the risk is highest for people who hike or camp in forested areas.

Protect yourself from tick bites . The vaccine is not available in Canada. It may be available in the destination you are travelling to.

In this destination, rabies  may be present in some wildlife species, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. 

If you are bitten or scratched by an animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. 

Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who will be working directly with wildlife. 

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.

Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.

  Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus.  Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.

Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.

 The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot at least 2 weeks before travelling.  

 The flu occurs worldwide. 

•  In the Northern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs from November to   April.
•  In the Southern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs between April and   October.
•  In the tropics, there is flu activity year round. 

The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.

The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

• Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
• Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
• Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs. 

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

• Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
• Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
• Minimize exposure to insects
• Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

• In this country, risk of  dengue  is sporadic. It is a viral disease spread to humans by mosquito bites.
• Dengue can cause flu-like symptoms. In some cases, it can lead to severe dengue, which can be fatal.
• The level of risk of dengue changes seasonally, and varies from year to year. The level of risk also varies between regions in a country and can depend on the elevation in the region.
• Mosquitoes carrying dengue typically bite during the daytime, particularly around sunrise and sunset.
• Protect yourself from mosquito bites . There is no vaccine or medication that protects against dengue fever.

Zika virus is a risk in this country. 

Zika virus is primarily spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. It can also be sexually transmitted. Zika virus can cause serious birth defects.

During your trip:

• Prevent mosquito bites at all times.
• Use condoms correctly or avoid sexual contact, particularly if you are pregnant.

If you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, you should discuss the potential risks of travelling to this destination with your health care provider. You may choose to avoid or postpone travel. 

For more information, see Zika virus: Pregnant or planning a pregnancy.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette , which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

•   washing your hands often
• avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
• avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness 

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) , HIV , and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.  

Medical services and facilities

Health care is excellent and available throughout the country. Up-front payment may be required.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Travel health and safety

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a   travel health kit , especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad .

Transfer to a Canadian prison

Canada and France are signatories to the Convention on the Transfer of Sentenced Persons. This enables a Canadian imprisoned in France to request a transfer to a Canadian prison to complete a sentence. The transfer requires the agreement of both Canadian and France authorities.

This process can take a long time, and there is no guarantee that the transfer will be approved by either or both sides.

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect jail sentences or heavy fines.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

Identity checks

You may be subject to identity checks during your stay in France.

Always carry valid identification such as a driver's licence, passport or a copy of it.

Keep photocopies or digital copies of the following documents, in case of loss or seizure:

• the identification page of your passport
• your birth certificate
• your Canadian citizenship card
• your driver’s licence

Keep originals and copies in separate safe locations.

Concealing your face in public places

In France, it’s illegal to cover your face in public places, including international airport arrivals areas.

Offenders risk a very high fine. There is no exemption for tourists or for religious reasons.

• Identity checks - French administration services
• Concealment of the face in public places - French administration services

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is legally recognized in France.

If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of France, our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you're there. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements .

Travellers with dual citizenship

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. The convention applies between Canada and France.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in France, and if the applicable conditions are met, you may apply for the return of your child to the French court.

If you are in this situation:

• act as quickly as you can
• contact the Central Authority for your province or territory of residence for information on starting an application under The Hague Convention
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in France to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children’s Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country’s judicial affairs.

• List of Canadian Central Authorities for the Hague Convention
• International Child Abduction: A Guidebook for Left-Behind Parents
• Travelling with children
• The Hague Convention - Hague Conference on Private International Law
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Emergency Watch and Response Centre

You must be at least 18 years old to drive a car in France.

You should carry an International Driving Permit. You can drive with your Canadian licence for up to 1 year. If you stay in France, you will have to exchange your Canadian licence for a French licence.

Numerous roadside cameras have been installed to help enforce traffic regulations. You could receive heavy fines if you do not obey the speed limit or the Highway Code. Local authorities may also confiscate your driver’s licence.

Fines must generally be paid within 3 days. They may be increased in case of delay of payment.

A reflective vest and warning triangle are mandatory in all vehicles.

From November 1 to March 31, winter tires or chains are compulsory in some cities and regions in mountainous areas.

Priority to the right

The “priority to the right” system is in effect in France. Drivers must give way to vehicles approaching from the right at intersections, even on secondary roads. This is often a surprise to foreign drivers and results in accidents.

In general, traffic in a roundabout has priority over vehicles trying to enter it. Priority switches to vehicles from the left.

Low-emission zones

Some cities and territories have put in place low emission zones to reduce air pollution.

Access to these zones is restricted to vehicles that meet certain environmental standards. You may need to get a permit to drive in these areas.

• More information about road travel in France - European Commission
• Obligations to equip vehicles in winter - French administration services (in French)
• Air quality certificates: Crit'Air - Ministry of Ecological Transition (in French)

The currency of France is the euro (EUR).

If you are carrying €10,000 or more, or the equivalent in other currencies, you must make a declaration to customs when you enter or leave the European Union. It includes sums in:

• banknotes and coins
• bearer negotiable instruments such as cheques, travellers’ cheques, promissory notes and money orders
• bonds, shares
• gold coins with a gold content of at least 90 %
• gold bars, nuggets or clumps with a gold content of at least 99.5 %
• any other convertible asset

This does not apply if you are travelling within the European Union or in transit to a non-EU country.

EU cash controls - European Commission

There is a risk of avalanches in mountainous areas, which can cause fatal accidents. If you intend to ski or climb, find out about the weather and safety conditions and follow the advice given.

• Familiarise yourself with the avalanche risk levels - French administration services

There is a risk of seasonal flooding, particularly in areas along major rivers and streams. Flooding can hamper overland travel and the provision of essential services.

The French government has a flood forecasting service called Vigicrues.

• Exercise caution
• Stay informed of the latest regional weather forecasts

Flooding risk - Vigicrues

Forest and maquis fires

Forest and maquis fires often occur in summer, particularly on the Mediterranean coast and in Corsica.

The air quality in areas near active fires may deteriorate due to heavy smoke.

There is a ban on smoking in woods and forests during high forest fire risk periods as defined by the prefecture. This ban applies equally to areas situated within 200m of wooded areas.

In case of a major fire:

• stay away from affected areas, particularly if you suffer from respiratory ailments
• follow the advice of local authorities
• monitor local media for up-to-date information on the situation

  Forest weather – Météo France (in French)

Local services

Dial 112 for emergency assistance.

Dial 17 to connect to the police.

French Guiana, Guadeloupe, Martinique, Mayotte, Monaco, La Réunion, Saint-Barthélemy, Saint-Martin, Saint-Pierre-et-Miquelon

South Region

Région Occitanie

Rhône-Alpes Region

American Samoa, Cook Islands, Fiji, French Polynesia, Kiribati, Niue, Samoa, Tokelau, Tonga, Tuvalu, Wallis and Futuna

Consular assistance - France

Please call the consulates before visiting them.

For emergency consular assistance, call the Embassy of Canada to France, in Paris, and follow the instructions

Consular assistance - Wallis and Futuna

For emergency consular assistance, call the High Commission of Canada to New Zealand, in Wellington, and follow the instructions.

At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.

The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.

The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.

If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.

Learn more about consular services .

Risk Levels

  take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

  Exercise a high degree of caution

There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.

  Avoid non-essential travel

Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

  Avoid all travel

You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.

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Home » Europe » France » Travel Safety

Is France Safe for Travel? (Insider Tips)

France is amongst the most popular tourist destinations on earth and attracts around 90 million visitors from across the world each year. However, over the last few years, the country has been in international news headlines for all the wrong reasons.

We have probably all seen images of the yellow vested ‘gilets jaunes’ protestors clashing with police, and of course, none of us can forget the awful terrorist attacks that have taken place across the country. It all begs the question of whether France is safe to visit at the moment?

The good news is that the short answer is Yes; France is very safe to visit. Whilst the news stories can be scary, the on the ground facts and actual statistics tell a very different one. I have spent a great deal of time in France over the last few years and have never encountered even the slightest problem.

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So is France Safe For Tourists?

France travel insurance & visa, faq about staying safe in france.

Crime rates in France are low. Violent crime is very rare and unlikely to impact on tourists. Petty crime is more common including pickpocketing, phone or bag snatching, and other opportunistic theft. These instances are more common in busy tourist areas. Be aware of your surroundings and keep a close eye on your possessions.

France does not have quite the same binge drinking culture as other Northern European countries although some areas can become boisterous on weekends and national holidays. I did witness quite a few drunken street fights one Bastille Day in Nantes which reminded me of the UK.

Visitors to France may be the target of various scams. These include been sold fake tickets in the street (for example for the Louvre) or sold fake, low-quality souvenirs. Other popular scams are the free bracelets scam, the gold ring scam and card tricks. As a rule of thumb I would advise being wary of anybody who approaches you in the street.

There are a few bad portrait artists working in Montmartre who will demand insane prices for their mediocre sketches. Also, be mindful of anybody who asks you to sign a petition – it is a scam.

There have been a number of terrorist attacks in France in recent years, carried out in several locations. A number of lives were lost, including those of some tourists.

It is likely that terror organisations will target France again and the nation is on high alert. There isn’t much you can do to prevent this but thankfully, the odds of being affected by terrorism are extremely remote . Even though 131 lives were lost in the Bataclan attack of 2015, the cities homicide rate for the year was still lower than that of some US cities.

Protests and strikes are very common in France. The Yellow Vest, ‘Gilets Jaunes’ movement has quietened down but has not gone away so future protests across the country are very likely. A number of these have turned violent following police intervention.

We advise avoiding all protests. If there is a protest or strike, it may cause some disruption such as transport being cancelled and tourist attractions being closed. These often happen at short notice.

There are not many health concerns in France. Sanitation and hygiene standards are high and disease outbreak is rare. EU citizens are entitled to receive free emergency healthcare in France as long as they are carrying an EU Health Card. Other visitors may wish to consider obtaining travel insurance before beginning their trip.

The tap water in France is safe to drink, although I personally find that the tap water in Paris does not quite agree with me. Large mineral water bottles are available from 0.30 cents.

There is no such thing as a perfect safety guide, and this article is no different. The question of “Is France Safe?” will ALWAYS have a different answer depending on the parties involved. But this article is written for savvy travellers from the perspective of savvy travellers.

The information present in this safety guide was accurate at the time of writing, however, the world is a changeable place, now more than ever. Between the pandemic, ever-worsening cultural division, and a click-hungry media, it can be hard to maintain what is truth and what is sensationalism.

Here, you will find safety knowledge and advice for travelling France. It won’t be down to the wire cutting edge info on the most current events, but it is layered in the expertise of veteran travellers. If you use our guide, do your own research, and practise common sense, you will have a safe trip to France.

If you see any outdated information in this guide, we would really appreciate it if you could reach out in the comments below. We strive to provide the most relevant travel information on the web and always appreciate input from our readers (nicely, please!). Otherwise, thanks for your ear and stay safe!

It’s a wild world out there. But it’s pretty damn special too. 🙂

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Is France Safe For Women?

Absolutely yes. Cat-calling and other nuisances do happen in France on the same level as other Western European countries, but generally, Women have relatively little to worry about. Take the usual precautions in order to stay extra safe;

• Don’t walk alone in darkened, quiet areas.
• Never accept drinks from strangers.
• Note that friendliness can be misinterpreted as flirtation – be polite but firm.

Is Paris Safe?

Amongst the awful Bataclan massacre and the major protests, Paris has borne the brunt of the nations problems of the last few years and visitor numbers have dropped.

But is this just hysteria? Is Paris actually safe?

Statistically speaking, Paris is actually amongst the safest major metropolitan areas in Europe. Violent crime is rare. However, petty crime however including pickpocketing, bag & phone snatching are fairly prevalent.

As the largest and the capital city, Paris may well be the target of any future terrorist attacks and the capital is visibly on high alert. However, the chances of being hurt or killed by acts of terrorism are extremely low – you are actually more likely to be killed by your own toaster.

That said, do be alert of scammers and pickpockets in and on the metro, near Montmartre and near the Eiffel Tower. Stay alert, pay attention to your surroundings and be very wary of any approaches from strangers including “artists” offering to draw your portrait and anybody wielding a clipboard.

Here are some quick answers to common questions about safety in France.

What should you avoid in France?

Avoid these things when visiting France to stay safe: – Don’t leave your belongings out of sight – Avoid walking around with too much cash – Don’t walk around at night by yourself – Try not to look like a tourists

What is the most dangerous city in France?

Statistically, Nice and Marseille have the highest crime rates in France. However, these rates are still very low, so we would consider both cities perfectly safe to visit.

Where should you avoid in France?

Some places in France are sketchier than others, especially at night. These are a few of them: – Gare du Nord Area at Night – The Nightclubs Around the Champs-Elysées – Paris’s Northern 18th and 19th District

Is France dangerous for tourists?

No, France is definitely not dangerous for tourists, unless they’re actively looking for trouble. Crime rates are relatively low in France and visitors rarely face any sort of violent crime.

Is France Safe? Yes!

I have spent a lot of time in France over the years and never had any issues or felt remotely intimidated at any point. The only problems I have ever had are some minor disruptions caused by industrial actions (which I ideologically support). As long as you take simple, common sense precautions, your visit will be a happy one!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Mathilde Magnier

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France is one my dream countries to visit, especially during Christmas season. Thank you for this article, very informative. Keep it up!

Hi my name is Eric and I am from Singapore. I am contemplating visiting France in December 2021 with my wife and 2 kids (2 and 4 years old) to let them finally experience a winter Christmas for a change. I am concerned though how French people and Parisians in particular view tourists from Asia, given how Asians have been associated with COVID-19 as the “China virus”. Can I ask if there are any sentiments among the locals about Asian tourists and how welcoming they would be to tourists in general – is it one of caution or suspicion? And are there any safe distancing measures like restricting diners to only 2 pax in restaurants and museums? Lastly, are there still Christmas markets and celebrations during his COVID situation and are they also subject to safety measures? Thanks!

I wouldn’t be particularly worried any “anti-asian” sentiments. The Parisians are generally an open minded, cosmopolitan and accepting bunch who are very used to tourists.

As for COVID measures, France has gone pretty hard on “vaccine passports” and is still enforcing social distancing in a lot of places. Things are not quite back to normal yet and if I were you, I’d probably wait until next winter.

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Exercise a high degree of caution in France due to the threat of terrorism.

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Local emergency contacts

Fire and rescue services, medical emergencies.

Call 15 for COVID-19-related assistance.

Advice levels

Exercise a high degree of caution in France.

Exercise a high degree of caution in France due to the threat of terrorism

• France's national terrorist alert warning is at the highest level. (in French). Expect high-levels of security nationwide, including at schools, places of worship, shopping centres and landmarks. 
• There's a risk of terrorist attacks in France. Be cautious around locations known to be targets. Attacks could be indiscriminate and could occur anywhere without warning. There have been several attacks in France in recent years
• Crime such as theft, including passport theft, pickpocketing, bag snatching, burglaries and muggings, are common, particularly in summer. Groups of thieves also operate on public transport, including busy metro lines and trains to/from the airports. Take care to protect your belongings on public transport, in crowded tourist areas and at landmarks. 
• Strikes are frequent across France. When they occur, expect demonstrations and significant disruptions, which usually affect public transport and other public services. Some result in clashes with police, resulting in the use of tear gas and arrests. Avoid demonstrations and areas with significant police activity.

Full travel advice: Safety

• Get comprehensive travel insurance before you leave. There are no reciprocal healthcare agreements between France and Australia.
• The standard of medical care is high.

Full travel advice: Health

• Always carry a photo ID, such as your passport. Police conduct random checks, particularly at borders.
• You must stop to help if you witness an accident or someone asks for help. Report all accidents to emergency services. If you fail to help,  you could be charged  unless assisting will risk your or others' safety.
• Covering your face in public places or forcing someone else to is illegal.
• Be careful when taking photos. It's illegal to photograph security forces, including the police.

Full travel advice: Local laws

If you plan to travel to France to commemorate Anzac Day, understand the risks and plan ahead. Read our ' Travel overseas for Anzac Day'  page for further information on attending the event.

• France is part of the  Schengen area , meaning you can enter without a visa in some cases. In other situations, you'll need a visa. Contact the nearest embassy or consulate of France for the latest entry and exit conditions.
• The  France-Visas website  can help determine if you need a visa to enter or transit France. 

Full travel advice: Travel

Local contacts

• The  Consular Services Charter  details what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.
• For consular help, contact the  Australian Embassy in Paris .
• To stay up to date with local information, follow the embassy's social media accounts.

Full travel advice: Local contacts

Full advice

Following a terrorist attack in Russia on 23 March, France has raised its national terror alert warning to the highest level. Expect high-level security measures to be in place throughout the country, including schools, places of worship, shopping centres and landmarks. Be aware of your surroundings, monitor local media, and follow the advice of local authorities. 

Attacks can occur at any time. Methods of attack have included knife attacks, shootings, bombings, and vehicle attacks.

There have been several attacks in France in recent years, including in:

• places of worship
• shopping areas
• tourist sites
• transportation hubs
• major events which attract large crowds

Be cautious around locations known to be possible terrorist targets.

Authorities have additional powers to deal with counter-terrorism security. In some public areas, they may:

• restrict access
• search your bags and vehicle

Expect increased security checks at borders, including ID checks, which may cause delays.

To reduce your risks:

• be alert to possible threats, especially in public places
• report anything suspicious to the police
• monitor the news for any new threats
• take official warnings seriously
• follow the instructions of local authorities

In the event of an attack, leave the area as soon as it's safe to do so.

The French Government has published advice about  how to respond to a terrorist attack .

Follow these Twitter accounts for advice (in French) during major security incidents:

• @Gendarmerie
• @PoliceNationale
• @prefpolice

Terrorism is a threat worldwide.

More information:

Civil unrest and political tension

Strikes are frequent across France. When they occur, expect  demonstrations  and significant disruptions, which usually affect public transport and other public services.

Some lead to clashes with police, resulting in the use of tear gas and arrests. Avoid demonstrations and areas with significant police activity. 

To reduce risks:

• avoid protests and demonstrations, and exercise caution if you're caught up in large gatherings/protests
• remain vigilant, especially at night
• monitor local media and other sources for news on possible unrest
• follow the advice of local authorities
• Demonstrations and civil unrest
• SNCF Trains  
• Paris Metro and Buses

Crimes such as passport theft, pickpocketing, burglaries and bag and phone snatching are common in summer. Groups of thieves also operate on public transport, including busy metro lines that service tourist attractions and trains to/from the airports. 

Take care to protect your belongings on public transport, in crowded tourist areas and at landmarks. Some examples of common targets include (but are not limited to):

• Airports (including Charles de Gaulle International Airport)
• Hotel lobbies
• Outside of hotels and well-known short-stay accommodations
• Restaurants and cafes, especially when sitting on the terrace.

Criminals use children to distract tourists or even play an active role in theft.

Violent theft is less common but may also occur on public transport or around major tourist attractions. These attacks have occurred on or around:

• Gare du Nord train station
• The train from CDG Airport to Gare du Nord train station.
• Metro lines in Paris, including lines 1, 2 and 6
• RER (regional) train lines linking Paris and its suburbs
• major tourist attractions (including, but not limited to, the Eiffel Tower area, the Champs-Elysées, the Louvre, the Palais Royal areas, the Les Halles district, and the Latin Quarter)

To protect yourself from theft:

• avoid walking in quiet and poorly lit streets, especially at night
• keep luggage and valuables out of sight
• use ATMs in secure locations such as banks and shopping centres
• keep your ATM and credit cards in your sight
• monitor local sources for information about possible safety or security risks

Vehicle break-ins

Vehicle crime includes bag snatching from cars (including while driving, stopped or stuck in traffic), including on the highway between CDG Airport and Paris city centre, and theft and break-ins from unattended vehicles. Rental vehicles are often targets, even in small towns.

To protect yourself:

• never leave valuables in your car
• keep bags and luggage concealed and/or stored in the boot
• keep your vehicle locked at all times, including when driving
• use secure parking facilities, especially overnight
• be alert at isolated automated service stations
• beware of any person who waves at you to stop on the highway
• avoid sleeping in rest areas beside autoroutes (motorways) and major roads
• avoid sleeping in makeshift or unauthorised campgrounds on the outskirts of cities

Domestic Violence

French authorities have introduced emergency phone numbers for victims of domestic violence. In an emergency, call the police (dial 17) or a 24/7  specialised hotline  (dial 3919) to call for help.

Scams and fraud

Credit card and ATM fraud involving 'skimming' machines that can store card data can occur. Automated service stations and tourist areas are often targets for this.

Be wary of strangers who invite you for a free drink or show at a private club. Foreigners have had large amounts of money stolen from their credit cards before being allowed to leave.

Be cautious when booking travel. Use reputable travel providers only. Avoid giving your personal details to unknown sources. There have been reports of identity theft through accommodation scams.

Avoid common scams around tourist areas. These are often groups of petty criminals targeting foreigners and tourists.

Cyber security  

You may be at risk of cyber-based threats during overseas travel to any country. Digital identity theft is a growing concern. Your devices and personal data can be compromised, especially if you're connecting to Wi-Fi, using or connecting to shared or public computers, or Bluetooth. 

Social media can also be risky in destinations where there are social or political tensions or laws that may seem unreasonable by Australian standards. Travellers have been arrested for things they have said on social media. Don't comment on local or political events on your social media. 

More information:  

• Cyber security when travelling overseas  

Swimming safety

The beaches along the French Atlantic coast can be dangerous, especially on the south-western coast. Several people drown every year.

Swim at supervised beaches and follow the  colour-coded flags  that warn against dangerous swimming conditions.

If in doubt, seek local advice.

Climate and natural disasters

France experiences  natural disasters  and  severe weather , including:

• forest fires

If you're in an area affected by a natural disaster or severe weather:

• keep in touch with friends and family
• monitor local media

Avalanches and mudslides

Avalanches and mudslides can happen in some mountain areas. Several people have died in recent years.

If you're skiing or mountaineering:

• monitor advice on weather and safety conditions
• don't move off marked slopes or trails

In some areas, authorities may arrest or prosecute you if you ski or mountaineer off marked trails.

Forest fires

Forest and grass fires often occur during the summer months. You can track active fires on the EU's  European Forest Fire Information System .

The French government also provides a forest fire tracker on  Météo des forêts  (in French).

Flash flooding can make road travel extremely difficult. People have lost their lives due to flooding.

Disruptions to communication infrastructure may occur.

• Floods and fires

Travel insurance

Get comprehensive  travel insurance  before you leave. There's no reciprocal healthcare agreement between France and Australia.

Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation. The Australian Government won't pay for these costs.

If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are.

If you're not insured, you may have to pay thousands of dollars up-front for medical care.

• what activities and care your policy covers
• that your insurance covers you for the whole time you'll be away

Physical and mental health

Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition. 

See your doctor or travel clinic to:

• have a basic health check-up
• ask if your travel plans may affect your health
• plan any vaccinations you need

Do this at least 8 weeks before you leave.

If you have immediate concerns for your welfare or the welfare of another Australian, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your  nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate  to discuss counselling hotlines and services available in your location .

• General health advice
• Healthy holiday tips  (Healthdirect Australia)

Medications

Not all medications available over the counter or by prescription in Australia are available in other countries. Some may even be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.

If you plan to bring medication, check if it's legal in France. Take enough legal medication for your trip.

Carry a copy of your prescription or a letter from your doctor stating:

• what the medication is 
• your required dosage 
• that it's for personal use 
• Consulate-General of France in Sydney

Health risks

Insect-borne diseases.

Although uncommon, the  West Nile virus (WNV)  has occurred in France. There's no vaccine for it.

To reduce your risk of disease:

• make sure your accommodation is insect-proof
• use insect repellent
• wear long, loose, light-coloured clothing

Measles cases can routinely occur in France, with the country currently experiencing increased measles activity. Make sure your vaccinations are up-to-date before you travel.

• Infectious diseases

Medical care

The standard of medical facilities is similar to Australia.

Before they treat you, hospitals usually need the following:

• a guarantee of payment
• a copy of your medical insurance
• an up-front deposit

Costs for public hospital stays can reach thousands of dollars, depending on the treatment you need.

You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that may appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling.

If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our  Consular Services Charter . But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.

Penalties for drug offences are severe. If you're convicted, you can get a long jail sentence.

• Carrying or using drugs

You must always carry a photo ID, such as your passport or driver's licence. Police conduct random checks, particularly at borders.

It's  illegal not to offer help to a person in danger . Authorities may charge you if you:

• don't stop after you witness a motor accident
• don't report an accident to emergency services
• ignore pleas for help or urgent assistance

Any assistance shouldn't put you or anyone else in danger. For example, if there's a fire, you're not expected to leap into the flames to save someone. Notifying authorities (dial 112) would be sufficient.

Penalties for not assisting can carry a fine of up to 100,000 euros and up to 7 years imprisonment. Tourists aren't exempt.

Forcing someone to hide their face is a crime in France. It's punishable by a year in prison and a fine of up to 30,000 euros. The sentence doubles if the person forced to hide their face is a minor. 

It's illegal to photograph security forces, including the police. Penalties may include authorities detaining you and taking your film or camera.

Flying drones is prohibited in Paris. Prohibitions also exist in other locations in France. Check with local authorities

Australian laws

Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you're overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.

Staying within the law and respecting customs

Dual nationality

France recognises dual nationality.

Australians should use their Australian passport when exiting or entering Australia. This includes dual nationals.

If you're a dual national and have a passport from another country, you may choose to travel on your other passport once outside Australia.

• Dual nationals
• Travel document requirements

Visas and border measures

Every country or territory decides who can enter or leave through its borders. For specific information about the evidence you'll need to enter a foreign destination, check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination you're entering. 

France is part of the  Schengen area , meaning you can enter France without a visa in some cases. In other situations, you'll need a visa.

France Diplomacy provides a  comprehensive FAQ  for foreigners wishing to visit France and an  online tool  to assess what visa you need. 

Make sure you:

• Apply for your visa in Australia if you need one. You can't apply for a visa or change your status once you're in French territory. For example, you can't change from a tourist visa to a student or resident visa while in France.
• carry your passport when you cross borders, including within the  Schengen area
• check border conditions with local sources and transport providers

You may still need a visa to transit. 

Other formalities

Unaccompanied minors (under 18 years of age) who normally live in France and want to leave French territory need:

• their own identity document
• a copy of a parent or guardian's identification
• a completed form issued by the French Ministry of Interior

More information

• French Ministry of the Interior (French) .

Some airlines won't let you board, and some countries won't let you enter unless your passport is valid for 6 months after you plan to leave that country. This can apply even if you're just transiting or stopping over.

Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.

You can end up stranded if your passport is not valid for more than 6 months. Check your passport's expiry date before you travel.

The Australian Government does not set these rules. If you're not sure it'll be valid long enough, consider getting  a new passport .

Lost or stolen passport

Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.

Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.

If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible:

• In Australia, contact the  Australian Passport Information Service .
• If you're overseas, contact the nearest  Australian embassy or consulate .

Also, go to the nearest Commissariat de Police (police station) to:

• report the crime
• get a declaration of theft

Doing this could assist any insurance claims.

Passport with 'X' gender identifier 

Although Australian passports comply with international standards for sex and gender, we can't guarantee that a passport showing 'X' in the sex field will be accepted for entry or transit by another country. Contact the nearest  embassy, high commission or consulate of your destination  before you arrive at the border to confirm if authorities will accept passports with 'X' gender markers. 

More information:   

• LGBTI travellers  

The currency in France is the Euro.

France is a member of the European Union (EU). If you travel between France and any non-EU country, you must declare over 10,000 euros (or equivalent) cash. This covers all forms of currency, not only cash.

If you don't declare or give the wrong information on entry or exit, you'll need to pay a fine.

You don't need to declare cash if you're travelling to or from another EU country.

Local travel

Driving permit.

You'll need a valid Australian driver's licence to drive in France.

Car rental companies may also need an International Driving Permit (IDP). Get your IDP before you leave Australia. You cannot apply for this while overseas.

If you live in France, you can swap your Australian driver's licence for a French licence. You must do this within your first 12 months.

• Driving or riding

Road travel

Unless otherwise signposted, drivers must give way to vehicles approaching from:

• the right at intersections

This is the 'priority of the right' system. Understand this system so you avoid road accidents.

Be cautious when you drive or travel as a passenger. Keep your doors locked, even when moving. Lock your vehicle when you leave it.

The speed limit in most city centres is 30km/hr. 

There are penalties for breaking traffic rules. These may include:

• immediate loss of your licence and vehicle
• on-the-spot fines

All vehicles must carry a reflective vest and warning triangle for use during a breakdown.

The minimum driving age is 18 years.

Motorcycles

Check if your insurance policy covers you when using a motorbike, quad bike or similar vehicle.

Always wear a helmet.

Only use licensed official metered taxis. Licensed taxis have the sign 'Taxi Parisien' on the top of the car in Paris.

Assaults  and robberies have happened in unlicensed taxis. These taxis often target high-traffic destinations such as:

• train stations

Private car companies are legal, but you need to pre-book them.

Public transport

Organised strikes happen often. These may affect transport systems, including trains and airline traffic. Monitor the media and contact your travel provider for the latest details. See  Safety

If you use public transport, keep your ticket until you exit the system. Inspectors conduct random checks. You'll get an on-the-spot fine if you don't have a valid ticket.

Maintenance work on public transport is often carried out over the summer months, which requires metro lines to be shut down. In Paris, check the  RATP site .

• Transport and getting around safely

DFAT doesn't provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.

Check  France's air safety profile  with the Aviation Safety Network.

Emergencies

Depending on what you need, contact your:

• family and friends
• travel agent
• insurance provider

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

Call 3919 for victims of domestic violence.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

Consular contacts

Read the Consular Services Charter for what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.

For consular help, contact the Australian Embassy in France.

Australian Embassy, France

4 Rue Jean Rey,

75015 Paris, France

Phone: (+33 1) 4059 3300

E-mail: [email protected]

Website: france.embassy.gov.au

Facebook:  L'Australie en France

X: AusAmbFR

Check the Embassy website for details about opening hours and any temporary closures.

Visitors must pass a security screening. Don't bring luggage with you.

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

• +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
• 1300 555 135 in Australia

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Is It Safe to Travel to Paris?

Generally, Paris is safe for travel. Locals helped us put together this guide to safety in Paris. It covers everything from COVID to tips for solo travelers.  

Work with a local to build your trip to Paris. Our locals offer up-to-date information you might not find online—and tips on how to avoid crowds.  Learn more . 

Table of Contents

When will paris be safe for travel.

• Overall safety situation in Paris
• Travel advisory for Paris

Common scams in Paris

• What to know about protests in France
• Tips for solo travelers in Paris
• Important French phrases to know
• Emergency numbers in France

Naturally, one of the most common questions about travel to Paris concerns COVID-19. You might be wondering, when will France be safe for travel? Is it even possible to go? 

Good news! Travel to France is mostly back to normal. Vaccinated and unvaccinated travelers can visit France for vacation (although the CDC recommends getting vaccinated before travel ). Negative COVID tests are no longer required for Americans to enter the country. And the government does not currently have a mask mandate either. But masking is still recommended on public transit and indoors in public. 

There’s one exception effective January 5, 2023 : if you are traveling from China you will need a negative COVID test and will be required to mask on planes and public transportation. 

Because these rules can change and fluctuate at a moment's notice, we recommend connecting with a local who can help you stay up-to-date. 

Read our full update about travel and coronavirus HERE . Or, send a message to a French local .

Safety in Paris 

Paris is one of the most beautiful cities in France . The French capital is full of world-class museums, cobblestone streets, and blocks packed with bistros. And yes—Paris is a safe place to visit. 

That being said, locals note that Paris is a big city. Which means you should take certain precautions. These include: 

• Keeping an eye on your belongings : Keep an eye on your things. Don’t sling your purse over the back of your chair, or put your wallet in your back pocket. You could be targeted by pickpockets. 
• Stay aware of your surroundings : When in crowded places like train stations or tourist hubs, stay aware of your surroundings. Watch out for scammers. 

Paris is a popular place to visit in France because it’s beautiful, romantic, and safe. As long as you use common sense, you should be ok. 

Paris Travel Advisory

The State Department currently gives France a Level 2 Travel Advisory . For context, this is the same rating they assigned to most places in Western Europe, like Italy and the U.K. Level 2 means you’ll want to be a little more cautious and aware of your surroundings than Level 1, but the country is pretty safe. 

France is safe —but locals say you should keep these common scams in mind: 

• Bracelet scam: In this scam, someone will approach you and try to put a “free” bracelet on your wrist. Then, they’ll demand payment. Firmly refuse and walk quickly away. 
• Golden ring scam : If you’re approached by someone who has “found” a lost golden ring, do not engage. They’ll offer it to you for “free” but will demand payment if you accept. 
• The rose scam : Paris is a romantic place, but if someone offers you a “free” rose, ignore them. They’ll ask for payment. You’re better off buying flowers at one of the city’s beautiful flower shops!

Overall, locals recommend taking care when navigating large crowds and tourist sites, like the Eiffel Tower. 

What to know about protests in Paris

Locals tell us that one thing you should know about France is that protests are common. In the last few years, the country has seen strikes over transit, retirement policies, and inequality. 

Travel agencies might tell you to skip Paris if a protest is likely. However, locals note that protests are usually planned in advance. If you work with a local to plan your trip , they’ll let you know how to navigate the latest strikes. After all, locals do it all the time!

What to know if you’re traveling to Paris alone

Locals say you’ll have an incredible time if you travel to Paris alone. France is a safe destination for solo travelers, and so is its capital city! 

Here’s what locals say solo travelers in Paris should know:

• Be firm if you want someone to leave you alone : American friendliness can sometimes be misinterpreted as flirtation. 
• Blend in : Leave your sneakers and a baseball cap at home. You’ll stand out as a tourist. Instead, invest in good walking shoes and pack dark colors.
• Know how to get home at night : Although the metro is generally safe—so is most transportation in France —feel free to call an Uber or a cab.
• Keep an eye on your drink : If someone offers to buy you a drink, be sure you see it made. And although the wine in Paris is fantastic, be careful to not drink too much!

Work with a local to plan your trip if you’re looking for personalized advice on exploring Paris solo. It's  like  having a best friend in Paris—but still traveling alone. 

Important French phrases

No matter where you go in France —so many options!—it’s good to know a few phrases. Locals tell us that these are some basic ones to keep in mind: 

• Hello (morning): Bonjour
• Hello (evening): Bonsoir
• Thank you: Merci ( merci beaucoup=thank you very much )
• Please: S'il vous plait
• Excuse me, where is… -Excusez-moi, ou se trouve…?
• I would like... Je voudrais 

Paris is a good place to stay in France if you speak no French. Most people you’ll encounter will speak English. Still, it’s easy to say hello or thank you in French—and it really goes a long way.

Emergency numbers to know

Although it’s unlikely, here are some good numbers to have on hand in case you run into trouble in France:

• Emergency - 112 (European emergency number like 911 in the US)
• Police (24/7) - 17
• Health emergencies - 15
• US Embassy Paris - +(33)(1) 43-12-22-22, enter zero "0" after the automated greeting. Website - U.S. Embassy Paris  
• If you work with a local to plan your trip, they'll be available via phone in case you run into any issues

Looking for more info?

• English (EN)
• Español (ES)
• Português (BR)

Is France Safe? Crime Rates & Safety Report

• France : Safety by City
• Montpellier

France is a country consisting of metropolitan France in western Europe, and several overseas regions and territories.

Metropolitan France stretches from the Mediterranean Sea to the English Channel and the North Sea, and from the Rhine to the Atlantic Ocean.

The overseas regions consist of French Guiana in South America and several islands in the Atlantic, Pacific and Indian oceans.

There aren’t many things not to like in this dreamy European country.

It is one of the most popular tourist destinations, both in Europe and the rest of the world.

Its joie de vivre has been described for years in many books, movies, legendary paintings, and you can feel it when passing its countless restaurants, villages and enjoying its world-famous gastronomy.

Others enjoy France’s considerable cultural heritage, what’s left behind its great philosophers, writers, and artists, and some just walk the streets and enjoy the music of this country’s beautiful language.

Not to mention its long coastlines, massive mountain ranges, and breathtaking farmlands and vineyards.

• Warnings & Dangers in France

OVERALL RISK: MEDIUM

France is very safe to travel to. There is the heightened risk of pickpockets and scammers, though, and you should remain vigilant for any suspicious activities since this country has been targeted by terrorists many times. However, if you apply basic precaution rules, that should minimize the risk of something going wrong.

TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: MEDIUM

Transportation and taxis are generally safe and reliable in France, though there are many pickpockets in Parisian subway, and in other forms of public transport. Taxis are usually your safest bet.

PICKPOCKETS RISK: HIGH

As in any European top destination, there are pickpockets at popular tourist landmarks in France. They are your biggest worry when traveling to this country. Follow your common sense and remain vigilant at all times, especially in public transportation and at crowded stations.

NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: LOW

There is no particular threat of natural disasters in France, except for the threats from avalanches that can be a considerable risk when going skiing in the Alps.

MUGGING RISK: MEDIUM

There are low chances of getting mugged or kidnapped in this country, although it is advised to remain cautious and avoid poorly lit and deserted streets and areas. If you find yourself in such a situation, hand over your belongings immediately.

TERRORISM RISK: HIGH

Since this country has been targeted by terrorists numerous times, (as well as some countries near France, such as Denmark or Belgium) there is reason to believe that this country can be targeted again. This is why it is important to remain aware of your surroundings at all times, and report any suspicious activity.

SCAMS RISK: HIGH

As in any country, especially a top tourist destination, there is risk of getting scammed. In France, Paris and Marseilles are especially notorious for being scam hot-spots. Be wary of people trying to distract you or offering you unwanted help, check your change twice and always negotiate every service beforehand.

WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW

France is very safe to travel to, if you are a female traveling solo. Apart from a few general precaution rules you should apply, such as not walking alone in poorly lit and deserted areas, not finding yourself in strange company at night, etc, you can relax because France is very safe in this respect.

• So... How Safe Is France Really?

France is generally a safe country to visit, though its safety has been mildly compromised during the last couple of years, due to numerous terrorist attacks.

However, disregarding this, the precaution measures you will have to take are on par with those you would have to take in any other popular tourist destination, so that shouldn’t stop you from traveling to this gorgeous country.

France is generally a low-crime area, and the inner city areas and few selected suburbs are completely safe at all hours, but the problem persists in larger cities, especially Paris: there, the murder rate is about the double of the surrounding countries, and larger cities are literally filled with pickpockets and petty theft.

Violent crime, especially against tourists or strangers is rare, but you should bear in mind that purse snatching and pickpocketing is extremely common.

Another major issue in France is the terrorist attacks that have been happening during the last couple of years.

Due to this, police and France’s military units are patrolling the important landmarks, the Paris subway, train stations, and airports.

It is not uncommon and almost expected, to see armed patrols in those areas.

However, this is a good thing for tourists, since their presence scares away any pickpockets or bag snatchers that might be in the vicinity.

• How Does France Compare?
• Useful Information

Most countries do not need a visa in order to enter France, for any stays shorter than 90 days. Any longer than that, you might need to acquire a visa. EU nationals can stay (and work) in France for as long as they like. Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months past your planned date of return. If you are not sure about your visa status, visit www.doyouneedvisa.com which will let you know whether or not you need visa based on your nationality and the country you want to visit.

Euro is the official currency for France and most of Europe. You can find ATMs at every airport, most train stations and on every other street corner in all towns and cities. Credit cards are widely accepted throughout the country.

The weather in France is generally cold in winter and mild in summer, though along the French Riviera you can expect mild winters and hot summers, and this applies to the South West of France, too. Along the Rhône Valley you can experience wind known as the mistral and its strong, cold and dry force. In Paris, July is the hottest month with an average temperature of 20°C and the coldest is January with temperatures as low as 5°C.

Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport, sometimes referred to as Roissy Airport, is the largest international airport in France. It is located about 25 km to the northeast of Paris. Other large airports in France are in Nice, Lyon and Marseille.

Travel Insurance

Just like anywhere else, we recommend getting travel insurance when traveling to France, since it covers not only medical problems, but also theft and loss of valuables.

France Weather Averages (Temperatures)

• Average High/Low Temperature

France - Safety by City

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28 Reviews on France

Safe in paris.

Much safer here than USA because police aren’t likely to kill citizens There are fewer incidents of white terrorism. I am living in Central Paris in a ground floor studio and I feel very secure.

Frances Charteris – you must be watching too much liberal left american tv from the confines and safety of your studio apartment. The likelihood of being killed by police is high only if you are trying to kill them or another human being. It would be considered a natural consequence for your actions.

Haha “white terrorism”. Blacks commit crime disproportionately to their percent of the population. You sound like a liberal suffering from white guilt.

**** ****, you have no idea, so don’t make a statement like that if you have no clue what you’re talking about, Frenchy.

France is very safe

I’ve been going to France since I was 8. Far less dangerous than the USA with its endemic gun crime and poverty. Get over yourselves.

Europe is safe

Anywhere I’ve been in Europe, and I’ve been to a lot of places, never had any problems. Outside Europe you are more likely to have problems

Black and North africans are the only one that you may pay attention for your safety. Around ethnic french and europeans…. well it is very civilized.

It is not about being racist, you just have to see reality for what it is.

Good country,Defecate language

THATS RACIIIIIIIIST

**** you. I’m north African and I visited this country many times and I never had any intention to harm anyone. Let us enjoy the country without making us look like terrorists for god’s sake

Wow your are ready

In general most the problems are caused by new illegal immigrants, this in most of Europe. Not because of race but because of the culture of their countries of origin and because of poverty. Hopefully in a few years/decades they get integrated too and they’ll become normal civil people

France is good

France is safe i have been many times and had no problems except it is quite hard to find a toilet if you don’t speak French

There’s a hack for that: Go to any cafe, stand at the bar, order a coffee (1.50€), and ask to use the restroom. (But don’t actually drink the coffee, as in France they usually use bitter, robusta coffee.)

Not safe for a woman by herself, especially at night. As soon as you get there you will know what kind of guys you should avoid at all times. They stare at you, some will even approach. Just ignore and make sure to stay around the native french instead.

thats interesting because i notice men not staring as much as in the US. It felt better there.

Was pushed on the escalator of the louve whilst heavily pregnant as a distraction technique so a pickpockets could take my phone. Police were useless and couldn’t care less. Dog poo seems to be a big problem in paris. Been three times, wont be returning.

Well as It is said, Paris is not France. Go to the Loire Valley, French Alps, Provence or Alsace instead, it’s much safer, and people are more welcoming.

Stick to tourist attractions in cities

“Paris is not France.” Very good point, as I know the same can be said for the people of London mostly not being English.

Native French are fine as to be expected and were actually very polite and helpful despite the stereotype. Just be respectful and understand you are not at Disney World, this is a real working city. However, there aren’t many native French around. You will be accosted by north africans and eastern europe immigrants that will try to scam and pick pocket at every landmark. There was a group of them hanging around the eiffel tower shining lasers in the eyes of tourists. Police won’t do a thing about it as they spend their time looking for AK toting terrorists. Only been to Paris but want to see other areas of the country, not sure I will ever go back to Paris.

Not that great

Im going to be honest, The capital (Paris) sucks. Ive lived there for more than a decade now, ive gone to the rich districts and the poor districts and everything in between. Dont get me wrong, Paris is a treasure of cultural history but its habitant make it a crappy place. Im POC (mostly on the asian side) and I have to warn you about immigrants, be careful around them, you have to differentiate between the french pocs (the ones whove been working all their lives here) and the recent ones whove come here in the past 5 years or so. They will scam you, beat you to get anything worth on you, and steal from you. Women please do not go outside at night ALONE it is not safe. There is a lot of rape and sexual aggression and many many verbal aggressions too. Cat Calling is a huge issue and minors will get it too so dont let your teens out of your sight. What else… Paris is pretty dirty depending on where you go. Its overly expensive too. I dont want to end this with a negative note so ill just tell you all that theres good and bad ppl everywhere! (also always put your bags/backpacks on the front and keep an eye on them and your phones. Most likely places to get robbed is in metro. Be wary of poorly clothed ppl and if they smell bad.) I hope youll have a better stay. And Good Luck!

French woman born and raised in Paris. Do believe the reports you see on Youtube. Paris has become dirty, smelly, and above all, dangerous if you are not 100 of the time aware of your surroundings. The northern parts of Paris (18th district) is rife with drugs, violence, weapons. Last week, May 2021, 2 rapes in broad daylight. And Anne Hidalgo can sue and sue again, the Paris northern suburb is a no-go zone. If you look or behave like a tourist, do not go to this 93 area. Tourist areas are full of individuals who will do anything to get your money: and I mean ANYTHING. Go to official exchange stores to get euros, dont do it on the street, no matter the temptation. Do not take lots of money out, just coins if you can prepare in advance. Generally speaking, always be aware. And yes, most crime comes from North Africans and Blacks. Sorry to say, but FACTS CANNOT BE RACIST. One last suggestion: Dont spend too much time in Paris. Do Versailles, Eiffel, Louvre, etc and then head to Chantilly, and to the Loire Chateaux. Waaaayyy more beautiful and less touristy.

Stop confusing Paris and France

You guys talk about France like it’s all about Paris. Stop it for god sake, Paris is just a tiny portion of what France can offer. What you are talking about (scams, pickpokets) all those don’t apply to all parts of France. South of France, Provence, French Riviera, Loire Valley, Normandy, French Alps… All are nothing to do with Paris and its own problems. How the hell the risk of pickpockets and scam could high in Loire Valley or in a village of Provence ? Nonsense. Stop confusing Paris and France !

Pick better locations, people

If we’re being honest there’s no way France could be rated lower than 4 starts. Marseille and Paris are just two cities, you can’t rank a whole country based on them. I’ve spent a dreamy month In Provence with my fiance, it was just like in those cheesy romance movies; winery tours, great food and sunny days. No scams, no thiefs, no car robberies. If you visit extra populated cities that attract a lot of tourists you are bound to run into several bad apples.

France is an amazing country

I find it rather unfair to rate a whole country based on just one experience, let alone after you’ve visited Paris. While Paris will always have its special place in my heart since this is where we spent our honeymoon, the current city has very little in common with the vibrant and cozy city we fell in love with.

This rant aside, France is a huge country with cities, especially in the rural area, that will make you want to move here when you retire or even before that, if you’re crazy enough.

You have the classics, just like @southernerfrench said, South of France, Provence, French Riviera, Loire Valley, Normandy, French Alps, which are huge tourist destinations but a far cry from Paris.

Then there’s less popular aka crowded destinations like Gorges du Verdon. When we got there I couldn’t believe my eyes, the view and the water were amazing. No sign of petty theft, no beggars, no homeless people.

Avignon is a city full of history, packed with museums. Saint Tropez is known for its nightlife and busy atmosphere. Safe, but you need to mind your drinking, don’t let it out of your sight. These are only the cities I’ve visited but have a ton more on my list.

It’s fair to say that Paris is not as glamorous as it once was but as a country, France has a lot more to offer. Personally, I kind of tend to avoid popular, overcrowded cities if I want to explore more.

Never have I felt threatened, felt the need to double check my phone or bag while visiting the places above. If we’re being honest even Paris has hidden gems but if you’re googling for cool things to do in Paris chances are you won’t stumble upon them.

Do your research right and you won’t be disappointed!

I have been to France many times and have never had any negative experiences, not even in Paris. I grew up in a large city, so cities like Paris don’t intimidate me; in fact, I always feel very at home there, and I always found the native French people living there very civil. My favourite places in France are the Occitanie region, Avignon and Arles.

France scores a 64, yet the US is 68?? On its face, everyone knows that’s ludicrous.

I love my country, but when I go back home to the States, I need to be MUCH more vigilant and careful about who I might offend or get into a confrontation with while driving. (Never mind the near-daily mass shootings.)

By contrast, I’ve been living here in France for 20 years and have visited most of the cities (day and night), and have never felt threatened or witnessed any crime apart from petty theft.

That said, obviously northern Paris suburbs, Marseille, and a few other big city suburbs are exceptions.

"Terrorism risk" is not high

Come on, writing “TERRORISM RISK: HIGH”, just like for Yemen and Afghanistan, is ridiculous. Pickpockets, scams and traffic accidents much bigger concerns than terrorism.

Most of the cities are okeish, but every one of them have shady areas

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• Transport & Taxis Risk
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• Natural Disasters Risk
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Is it safe to visit Paris? Latest France travel advice

A terror attack took place in the french capital on december 2, with one person killed and two injured. here’s the latest foreign office travel advice.

A n attacker killed one person and injured at least two others in the Bir-Hakeim-Grenelle area of Paris, close to the Eiffel Tower, on the evening of Saturday, December 2. The suspect was arrested and the French authorities advised people to avoid the area, where there was a heavy police presence. This follows a terror attack in the town of Arras on Friday, October 13, after which the country raised its national threat level to Emergency Attack Level — the highest. This threat level is described as “maximum vigilance and protection in the event of an imminent threat of a terrorist act or in the immediate aftermath of an attack”. Here’s what you need to know if you’re travelling to Paris soon.

Main photo: the Pont des Arts in Paris (Getty Images)

What’s the latest on the attacks in Paris?

A 26-year-old man has been arrested and anti-terrorism prosecutors have started an investigation into the attack. Anti-terrorism prosecutor Jean-Francois Ricard said the suspect had pledged allegiance to Islamic State in a video recorded before the attacks took place. The victim is a German tourist who worked as a nurse and the two other injured were a French man in his sixties and a 66-year-old British tourist, who was hit in the eye with a hammer.

Is it safe to travel to Paris right now?

The Foreign Office does not warn against travelling to Paris and the safety advice is the same as for the rest of France — be vigilant in public places, stay alert and follow the advice of local authorities.

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What’s the latest government advice about travelling to France?

The Foreign Office has warned that, given the heightened threat level, evacuations of crowded places may take place. These can include airports, public transport stations and stops, tourist sites, major sports venues, schools, places of worship, and large commercial centres.

The likelihood of a terror attack in France is also considered very high, with shopping centres, entertainment venues, cultural events, public transport and places of worship the most likely targets. Previous terror incidents have included knife attacks, shootings, bombings and vehicle attacks.

There’s no specific advice for those who might be transiting through France, for example at the airport or via Eurostar, but delays may be possible at border control due to increased checks. If you’re driving, there shouldn’t be any delays once you get into France as it operates an open border with its EU neighbours.

Additional reporting by Lucy Perrin

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Traveling to France? What You Need to Know About the Protests.

Unrest has spread across France in response to the fatal police shooting of a 17-year-old in a Paris suburb. Here’s what to expect.

By Ceylan Yeginsu

Violent protests have spread across France over the past week since the fatal police shooting of a 17-year-old in a Paris suburb.

More than 800 people were arrested on Thursday night after protesters caused widespread destruction in dozens of cities, setting cars and buildings on fire, looting stores and clashing with the riot police. On Friday, many roads in the Paris region and other major cities like Marseille were cordoned off, and public transport routes were disrupted as more than 40,000 police officers were deployed across the country to bring the protests under control.

With the peak summer travel season underway, many tourists are headed to Paris and other parts of France for their summer vacations. Here’s what you need to know about how your trip might be affected.

Which cities have been hit hardest?

The clashes began in the Paris suburb of Nanterre on Tuesday night, after the police shot and killed the male teenage driver — a French citizen of North African descent, publicly identified as Nahel M. — who was stopped at a traffic light. The violence quickly spread to nearby areas in the greater Paris region as news of the killing reignited decades-long grievances over racial discrimination in working-class areas. The police officer who shot the driver was detained on Thursday on charges of voluntary homicide.

After three nights of riots, Clamart, in the southwestern suburbs of Paris, imposed a curfew between 9 p.m. and 6 a.m. through Monday. Other communities affected by the violence include Bezons, Gennevilliers, Garges-lès-Gonesse, Meudon and L’Île-St.-Denis, close to the headquarters of the 2024 Olympics.

The center of Paris, home to tourist attractions like the Louvre and the Eiffel Tower, had largely been unaffected until Thursday night, when looters descended onto the Rue de Rivoli, one of the city’s main shopping streets, and ransacked a Nike store.

Police asked people in popular tourist areas in Marseille and Bordeaux to leave the area on Thursday night after fires were set alongside streets, and violent clashes erupted between the police and protesters. On Friday, Marseille banned all demonstrations.

How has transport been affected?

On Friday, the Interior Ministry ordered the suspension of all bus and tram services after sunset, in response to the unrest.

The greater Paris region had already reduced services in recent days to limit the mobility of the protesters at night, and the city’s metro system will close an hour early over the weekend. Île-de-France Mobilités, the regional transport agency, has been issuing service updates on its website.

Is it safe to visit France?

The State Department has not advised against travel to France, but it issued a security alert on Thursday highlighting the violence and urging United States citizens to avoid “mass gatherings and areas of significant police activity.”

“Some cities are imposing curfews,” the alert said. “As always, it is a good practice to notify friends or family of your whereabouts.”

A State Department advisory issued in 2022 remains in place, urging travelers to “exercise increased caution in France due to terrorism and civil unrest.”

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2023 .

Ceylan Yeginsu is a travel reporter. She was previously a correspondent for the International desk in Britain and Turkey, covering politics; social justice; the migrant crisis; the Kurdish conflict, and the rise of Islamic State extremism in Syria and the region. More about Ceylan Yeginsu

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Iceland:  The country markets itself as a destination to see the northern lights. But they can be elusive, as one writer recently found .

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Is it safe to travel to France during strikes and protests?

Emirates and etihad airways flights to and from paris are operating as normal, but other airlines have warned of disruptions.

Protests and strikes are taking place in Paris and across France. AFP

On Tuesday, piles of rubbish built up over the last few weeks were set on fire around central Paris.

Armed police were out in force and fire engine sirens could be heard throughout the evening in the City of Light.

Near the Place de la Concorde, protesters and officers clashed.

And from the city’s rooftop terraces, often the place where travellers flock for the best views of the Eiffel Tower and other landmarks in the world's most visited country, large smoke plumes could be seen rising up from the streets below.

There are further strikes planned and for travellers heading to Paris or France at this time, here's what to know.

Why are there strikes and protests in France?

Protests and strike action have been taking place across France since the government announced a contentious bill to raise the country's retirement age from 62 to 64.

Demonstrators believe authorities are not listening to the people.

On Monday, President Emmanuel Macron narrowly survived a vote of no confidence — a move that sparked more protests across Paris.

And tonight the streets are burning as protestors set alight the piles of rubbish, of which Paris City Hall estimates there are some 13,000 tons of on the streets. #parisprotests #france pic.twitter.com/at1UFmQOOM — Hayley (@HayleyScottie) March 20, 2023

On Wednesday afternoon, the French president spoke live on national television about the proposed new bill, and said he was “willing to accept unpopularity over the pension reform”.

Sanitation workers remain on strike and rubbish piles littered around the city, the ones that haven't been ignited, continue to grow.

Further national strikes are planned with several industries due to take part.

Is it safe to visit France currently?

Travellers have not been told not to travel to France during strikes and protests.

The UK Foreign Office has warned of disruption and delays, but does not imply that travel plans should be cancelled.

The protests are against the government and not aimed at travellers, meaning tourists in Paris should remain safe, so long as they avoid protest activities.

Holidaymakers wishing to avoid protests can check with their hotel concierge and local news services to find out which areas have protests planned each day.

Public gatherings and protests have been officially forbidden on Concorde square, but travellers should still avoid this area and its surroundings during official days of strike action.

Are protests in Paris affecting holidays?

While unsightly piles of rubbish aren’t the best inclusions in holiday pictures, they are somewhat unavoidable in many parts.

Some roads and paths where streets are narrower are quite difficult to pass, especially in the evening when rubbish is strewn onto the roads and set alight.

Public transport services are impacted by the strikes, with several metro trains being cancelled on Tuesday evening after protests took place in the city centre.

Tourists with tickets booked for the Louvre Museum on Thursday, the next day of national strikes, have been advised that some areas of the museum may not be fully accessible.

Are flights being cancelled at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport?

On Tuesday and Wednesday, Air France cancelled 5 per cent of its services from Paris airports, including long-haul services.

Emirates and Etihad Airways flights to and from Paris are operating as normal at the time of writing. Other airlines including KLM and Ryanair have announced possible disruption to flight services this week.

It's possible more flight cancellations or delays could occur at airports around the country on Thursday as air traffic controllers are expected to take part in the action.

What should I do if I have upcoming travel to Paris?

Tourists with upcoming travel plans to France should reconfirm itineraries, booked activities and flight details before travelling.

When in the city, leave time for disruption to travel plans. Recent protests have caused disruptions at train stations and on metro services, and some roads in central Paris have been blocked.

The state-owned public transport operator RATP posted a statement on its website advising travellers to expect “very disrupted traffic” on Thursday on rail and metro networks. It also said that bus and trams will operate almost as “normal”.

Eurostar has also confirmed it will operate a revised service on Thursday, with trains to London, the Netherlands and Belgium cancelled.

Travellers should consider not using public transport to get to and from the airport. Instead, try to pre-book an airport transfer. It's also a good idea to leave extra time at the airport, as some operations such as immigration services, may only have skeleton staff.

Are other cities in France impacted?

While Paris has been at the forefront of protests, other cities around Paris are also facing disruption as the national day of strike action on Thursday will take place across the country.

Protests have been reported by local media in Nantes, Marseille, Bordeaux and other cities around France.

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Iran attack: Israeli response to attack may be 'imminent,' source says

What to know.

• An Israeli response to Iran's retaliatory attack may be “imminent,” a source told NBC News as Israel weigh ed its next steps and after a meeting of the country’s war Cabinet today.
• The two countries clashed at an emergency meeting of the United Nations Security Council, with Tehran insisting it does not seek further escalation after it launch ed the barrage of 300 drones and missiles but warning of more "decisive" strikes in retaliation to any Israeli counterattack.
• U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres said it was time to “step back from the brink” as a chorus of world leaders urged restraint. President Joe Biden has warned Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu against launching new strikes on Iran . He said the U.S. would not participate in any offensive actions against Iran but has privately said he fears that Netanyahu is trying to drag the U.S. into a wider conflict, officials told NBC News.

U.S. officials expect Israeli response to Iran strikes will be limited

Courtney Kube

Mosheh Gains

Monica Alba

U.S. officials expect a possible Israeli response to  Iran’s attack over the weekend  to be limited in scope and most likely involve strikes against Iranian military forces and Iranian-backed proxies outside Iran, four U.S. officials said.     

The U.S. assessment is based on conversations between American and Israeli officials that happened before Iran fired more than 300 drones and missiles at Israel on Saturday night.

As Israel was preparing for a possible Iranian attack last week, Israeli officials briefed U.S. officials about possible response options, the U.S. officials said. 

The U.S. officials stressed that they have not been briefed on Israel’s final decision about how it will respond and that the options could have changed since the weekend attack. They also said it is not clear when an Israeli response will happen, but they said it could happen at any time.

Read the full story here.

Johnson outlines House plan to vote on foreign aid bills

Rebecca Kaplan

Zoë Richards

House Speaker Mike Johnson spoke to reporters after a GOP conference meeting that he said was “fruitful and productive” and outlined his plan to put four national security bills on the House floor: Israel aid, Ukraine aid, Indo-Pacific aid and a fourth measure that includes GOP national security priorities that would include more sanctions on Iran.

“Every member ultimately will be able to vote their own conscience on all of these matters and everyone have an opportunity to weigh in and bring the amendments that they think are suitable,” said Johnson, R-La.

He said that he would prefer to send each bill to the Senate individually but that no final decision has been made. 

If bill text comes out tomorrow, as is the hope, Johnson said, the House might not vote on the packages until Friday. The House is scheduled to leave Thursday afternoon and be in recess next week, but that could change.

Iranians anxious as Israel weighs strike response

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates — The prospect of Israeli retaliation against Iran for its drone and missile attack over the weekend has alarmed many Iranians already facing economic pain and tighter social and political controls after protests in 2022-23.

Iran’s political and military leaders have repeatedly warned that they will respond to any Israeli retaliation by escalating further, potentially triggering yet more attacks.

And that would only be bad news for ordinary people, said Hesam, 45, a teacher from the northern city of Amol.

“Economic pressure will mount. Our safety will be jeopardized. ... We must avoid conflict at all cost. I don’t want a war. How can I protect my two children? Nowhere will be safe.”

Middle- and lower-income Iranians are shouldering much of the burden of the economic woes, with inflation over 50%; rising utility, food and housing prices; and the rial currency falling sharply.

Parvaneh, 37, a mother of two in the central city of Yazd, fears an Israeli strike could be the final hammer blow to the economy, weakened by years of sanctions, mismanagement and corruption.

“We Iranians have endured more than enough for years. War brings only disaster. My husband is a factory worker. We do not have even enough money to buy staples, let alone stockpile them,” she said.

Bilal Saab, an associate fellow at Chatham House, a think tank based in London, says the Iranian strikes on Israel signify that Iran has the ability to potentially mount a more significant attack.

Rep. Scalise offers support to Netanyahu in call

Yael Factor

House Majority Leader Steve Scalise, R-La., conveyed support for Israel following Iran's retaliatory strikes over the weekend in a call with Netanyahu today, according to both of their offices.

Netanyahu's office said in a statement that Scalise expressed support "for any decision that Israel makes in light of the Iranian attack."

"Majority Leader Scalise informed the Prime Minister of his initiative to advance in Congress, in the coming days, a series of measures against Iran and for Israel; Prime Minister Netanyahu thanked him," the statement said.

Scalise told Fox News that they spoke about the House agenda this week and that he spoke to Netanyahu about his support for Israel's right to self-defense.

"He truly appreciated the action we’re taking to support Israel and to hold Iran and their terrorist proxies accountable," he said.

Jordan allowed fighter jets to intercept Iranian drones, Israeli air force official says

Raf Sanchez

TEL AVIV — Jordan allowed Israeli fighter jets into its airspace to intercept Iranian missiles and drones, an Israeli air force official said today.

“In order to address something that comes from the east, we need to fly somewhere that is east of Israel,” the official said in a briefing for reporters. “This was done with coordination.”

While Iran’s direct attack against Israel was unprecedented, so was the scale of coordination between Israel and Jordan, its Arab neighbor, in the response. Jordanian and Israeli fighters — coordinated by the U.S. military — acted together to intercept the barrage of drones and missiles. 

In a statement yesterday, Jordan’s government said the interceptions were made to ensure the safety of its citizens, rather than in defense of Israel. 

But it is thought to be the first time the two countries’ militaries have fought side by side.

Jordan and Israel made peace in 1994, though the relationship has often been strained by disagreements over Israel’s treatment of the Palestinians.

U.S. looking to further isolate Iran, Kirby says

Ghael Fobes

Doha Madani

The Biden administration is working to "further isolate" Iran's regime by increasing economic pressure, White House national security communications adviser John Kirby told reporters today.

"That's the upshot here: a stronger Israel, a weaker Iran, a more unified alliance of partners," Kirby said.

Asked whether the U.S. would support a counterattack from Israel, Kirby told NBC News' Gabe Gutierrez it was a hypothetical question he would not entertain.

"We don’t want to see a wider conflict," Kirby said. "As the president said to the prime minister on Saturday night, we will continue to do what we have to do to help Israel defend itself. But you’re asking me to get ahead of — as far as I know — a decision that the war Cabinet hasn’t even made."

Blinken discusses regional concerns with visiting Iraqi delegation

Khalid Razak

Secretary of State Antony Blinken met with Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani as part of Al-Sudani's official visit to Washington this week, Al-Sudani's office said in a statement.

The two officials spoke about strengthening relations between the U.S. and Iraq, as well as potential American investment opportunities, "especially in the fields of energy," the statement said.

Regional issues were also a topic, with Al-Sudani reiterating "Iraq’s clear position on the aggression, stressing the joint legal and moral responsibility for protecting unarmed civilians." The statement went on to say Al-Sudani stressed the importance of keeping the conflict from expanding.

A statement from Blinken's office was not yet available. Speaking to reporters alongside Iraqi Deputy Prime Minister Muhammad Ali Tamim, he said he was excited to welcome the Iraqi officials to the capital and hoped to "expand that 360-degree partnership" between their countries.

Both officials warned against escalating tensions in Iran.

The covert war between Israel and Iran has exploded into view. What comes next?

Daniel Arkin

The bitter conflict between Israel and Iran has long been confined to the realm of secret assassinations, audacious cyberattacks, nuclear sabotage and war-by-proxy. But that largely covert struggle burst into full view over the weekend with Tehran’s retaliatory drone and missile strikes.

Iran’s unprecedented direct attack on Israel, which followed its deadly strike on Iran’s consular building in Syria, left the U.S. and its allies scrambling to avoid a wider conflict as the world waits to see what comes next.

Netanyahu’s war Cabinet convened today to weigh its options. Western leaders have urged restraint, with Biden warning Netanyahu against carrying out new strikes on Iran and making it clear that Washington would not join in any such counterattack. (Speaking after the war Cabinet convened, an Israeli official told NBC News that a response may be “imminent.”) 

While Israel took down almost all the drones and missiles used in the attack, the U.S. and other allied countries, the stakes after the attack could not be higher. In the eyes of some foreign policy hawks, the attacks could be perceived as a grave provocation that demands a furious rejoinder. But other analysts have warned that if Netanyahu decides to hit back hard, it could plunge the wider Middle East into war amid Israel’s devastating monthslong military campaign in the Gaza Strip. 

Iran's response will be 'more extensive' if Israel counters, foreign minister told Cameron

Saba Hamedy

Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian warned that if Israel launches an attack, the regime's next response will be "immediate, stronger and more extensive."

In a call with U.K. Foreign Minister David Cameron yesterday, Amirabdollahian reiterated Tehran's position that the assault on Israel was within the country's legal right to respond to the strike on its diplomatic building and blamed the region's tensions on "the destructive role of the occupying Israeli regime," according to a state news report.

Cameron confirmed his call with Amirabdollahian on X, saying he formally condemned Iran's retaliatory strike on Israel. He also discussed the Revolutionary Guard's seizure of a Portuguese-flagged ship in the Strait of Hormuz.

"I made clear that Iran must stop these reckless attacks, de-escalate and release the MSC Aries," Cameron wrote .

Biden addresses Iran attack during meeting with visiting Iraqi prime minister

Biden took a moment to address Iran’s “unprecedented aerial attack” against Israel.

He said the U.S. and its allies were able to “defeat” the attack during a meeting with the prime minister of Iraq. 

Bedouin girl severely injured during Iranian missile attack is still in intensive care, her father says

Anna Schecter

Paul Goldman

Rich Schapiro

The father of 7-year-old Amina al-Hasoni describes the chaos of the middle-of-the-night attack from Iran that left his daughter with a severe head injury from shrapnel.

Her injuries are the most severe casualty of the Iranian onslaught, according to Israeli authorities, as Israel's defense system was able to thwart most of the missiles and drones headed toward Israeli territory.

"We heard the rocket exploding over our heads. We didn’t know where to go, there was a lot of shouting and a lot of chaos," Amina's father, Mohammed al-Hasoni, told NBC News by phone Monday.

He said Amina is still in intensive care in a hospital in Be'er Sheva in southern Israel.

The Hasoni family lives in a Bedouin community in southern Israel. Bedouin communities number around 300,000, with very few of the resources enjoyed by other Israeli towns and cities, including bomb shelters that might have saved Amina's life, as was first reported by The New York Times.

"Amina has nothing to do with all that is happening [in the world], with this reality," her father said. "I just want peace."

Oil prices fall after Iran’s strike on Israel is thwarted

The Associated Press

Oil prices fell on Monday after Iran’s missile and drone strike failed to cause widespread damage in Israel and the U.S. made it clear it did not support a wider war with Iran.

Analysts say the chief risk to oil prices from the Israel-Hamas war would be if the conflict escalates and disrupts oil supplies from Iran and Persian Gulf producers through the Strait of Hormuz choke point.

Tougher sanctions enforcement against Iranian oil shipments by the U.S. could raise oil prices but would risk higher inflation and pump prices for U.S. motorists in an election year.

The stance taken by Iran, which said the matter “can be deemed concluded” with the retaliatory strikes, and the U.S. position reassured oil traders, who sent the price of international benchmark Brent crude 0.7% lower to $89.82 a barrel in Monday morning trading. That is below the levels just above $90 a barrel seen on Friday before the weekend attacks.

Risks that could send prices higher include any Israeli strike against Iranian oil facilities or tougher enforcement of sanctions against Iran by the U.S.

Israel’s response to the Iranian attack may be 'imminent,' official says

TEL AVIV — Israel’s response to the Iranian attack may be "imminent," an Israeli official said Monday.

Speaking after Israel’s war Cabinet met for several hours, the official said Israeli decision-makers believe it's important for any response to closely follow the attack. Several diplomatic and military options were examined during the Cabinet meeting, the official said.

“Any response will be coordinated with the Americans,” the official added.

Biden to host Iraqi leader, raising questions over U.S. presence in Iraq

President Joe Biden is set to host Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al Sudani this week for talks that come as tensions across the Middle East have soared.

The war in Gaza and Iran’s weekend attack on Israel in retaliation for a military strike in Syria have created a sharp rise in security fears and raised more questions about the two-decade American military presence in Iraq.

A U.S. Patriot battery in Irbil, Iraq, knocked down at least one Iranian ballistic missile, according to American officials.

Iran lifts suspensions on flights in Tehran as crisis simmers

Mithil Aggarwal

Iran has lifted suspensions on domestic and international flights from its capital, Tehran, the state-run IRNA news agency reported, possibly signaling a return to stabilization for now.

It comes as Israel weighs its response to the strikes and world leaders call for restraint.

Global airlines faced ongoing disruptions to flights after Iran’s missile and drone attacks on Israel narrowed options for planes navigating between Europe and Asia.

At least a dozen airlines have had to cancel or reroute flights over the last two days.

France raises security around Jewish community before Passover

The French interior ministry is increasing security for the Jewish community in the week before Passover and in the aftermath of Iran's attack on Israel over the weekend.

"As Passover approaches and given the current international situation, I have told local officials to significantly step up security at places visited by our Jewish compatriots, especially with regards to synagogues and Jewish schools," said Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin in a post on X Monday.

The news came as French President Emmanuel Macron announced the country was developing alternative plans should security threats pose risks to the opening ceremony for the Summer Olympics in Paris. 

"We think there are security risks, we’ll have Plan Bs and even Plan Cs,” Macron told local news outlets.

Ukraine condemns Iran attack and says it needs help like Israel

Peter Jeary

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has condemned Iran’s drone and missile attack on Israel and said his country needed help from its allies to fend off threats from the air, just as Israel did.

Zelenskyy again called on the U.S. Congress to approve a vital aid package that has been blocked for months by political wrangling. Ukraine’s forces are facing new onslaughts from Russian troops in the east and daily attacks on cities and infrastructure from Russian missiles and drones, many supplied by Tehran.

Iran says the U.S. should be 'grateful' for its restraint

Iran has said the U.S. should be "grateful" for what it framed as the restrained nature of its retaliatory attack against Israel.

Tehran is not seeking a further escalation in the region, foreign ministry spokesperson Nasser Kanaani said today.

He "advised the U.S. to take account of Iran’s responsible conduct and legitimate reaction to the Israeli act of aggression and to be grateful for Iran’s logical and legitimate operation instead of adopting an irresponsible stance," according to the semiofficial Tasnim news agency.

Aid into Gaza has increased ‘dramatically,’ Kirby says

Max Butterworth

Israel has increased the amount of aid reaching Gaza “dramatically,” National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby said today, calling for that flow to be sustained.

“In just the last few days, more than 2,000 trucks have been able to get in,” he said on MSNBC’s “Morning Joe,” with around 100 trucks entering the Gaza Strip in the last 24 hours.

“Our policy with respect to Gaza will have to change if we don’t see changes over time and have them sustained,” he added.

Israel showed its 'military superiority,' White House official says

It's up to Israeli officials to decide on any response to Iran's attack over the weekend, but the U.S. ally should keep in mind its "incredible military achievement" in shooting down 99% of the drones and missiles, National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby said this morning on "TODAY."

Biden urged Netanyahu over the weekend to "consider the impact of that and the message it sent not only about Israel's military superiority but that Iran utterly failed in what it was trying to do," Kirby said.

"What we showed the other night is that Iran is not militarily superior, that Iran is not 10-feet tall and that Israel is not alone. We will act with them in their self-defense," he added.

Israel weighs response after Iran’s missile and drone barrage

Richard Engel NBC News Chief Foreign Correspondent, Host of MSNBC's "On Assignment with Richard Engel"

JERUSALEM — What happened this weekend could've easily started a massive war, and it's still not off the table while Israeli officials stay vague about any potential response.

'Double defeat' for Iran, U.K. says as Europe urges Israel to avoid further escalation

British Foreign Secretary David Cameron called the Iranian strikes a "double defeat" today, saying the United Kingdom has urged Israel to be "smart as well as tough" in weighing its response.

French President Emmanuel Macron also urged Israel against escalating the conflict further.

“We will do all we can to avoid things flaring up, escalating,” he told BFM TV and RMC radio today, adding that Israel should isolate Iran instead. “The situation is very unstable today,” he said.

Both the U.K. and France joined the U.S. in helping shoot down the drones and missiles Iran fired at Israel over the weekend.

Israel launches overnight strikes as it vows to press ahead with its war in Gaza

At least 68 people were killed in Gaza in the last 24 hours, the Palestinian enclave's Health Ministry said today, as Israel continued its strikes in Gaza overnight after vowing to press on with its war against Hamas.

“Even while under attack from Iran we have not lost sight, not for moment, of our critical mission in Gaza," IDF spokesperson Daniel Hagari said last night in a video statement.

U.S. says it intercepted 80 drones and 6 missiles launched from Iran and Yemen during attack on Israel

The U.S. military destroyed more than 80 drones and at least six ballistic missiles from Iran and Yemen during the Saturday night attack on Israel, U.S. Central Command said last night.

"This includes a ballistic missile on its launcher vehicle," it said in a statement on X.

Seven drones were destroyed before their launch from Yemen, it said, adding that the U.S. was supported by European forces.

‘You’re incredible:’ Biden thanks U.S. fighter squadrons that helped defend Israel

Biden thanked the U.S. fighter squadrons that helped defend Israel from a drone and missile attack by Iran. In a video posted to social media yesterday, he said, “You make me proud.”

Israeli war Cabinet to reconvene on response to Iran attack

TEL AVIV — The Israeli war Cabinet will meet today at 7 a.m. ET, an Israeli official told NBC News.

It comes after an Israeli official told NBC News following an hourslong meeting of the war Cabinet last night that the country would respond to the retaliatory strikes but that the scope and timing of that response had not yet been decided.

The official said that among the considerations were whether Israel needed to retaliate immediately or could afford to wait, and what impact any escalation against Iran would have on Israeli operations in the Gaza Strip.

Israeli schools to reopen, gathering restrictions relaxed

Schools are set to reopen in Israel today after they were shut as a security measure over the weekend due to Iran's retaliatory strikes, the Israel Defense Forces said in a statement on X.

Restrictions on public gatherings have also been lifted after a "situational assessment," it added.

Israeli military commanders gather at Kirya base in Tel Aviv

Lt. Gen. Herzi Halevi leads a situational assessment at the Kirya military base in Tel Aviv yesterday.

Catch up with our latest coverage

• Biden officials worry that Israeli response to Iran’s attack may trigger wider war
• Biden ‘doesn’t believe’ that Iran attack ‘needs’ to escalate into wider war, White House official says
• Johnson signals he won’t put Senate supplemental on the floor despite increased pressure
• Iran launches retaliatory attack on Israel that risks sparking regional war

FinanceBuzz

15 Safe and Affordable European Cities That Retirees Love

Posted: September 6, 2023 | Last updated: September 6, 2023

With retirement comes nearly endless potential for your next phase of life. You now have the financial freedom and unlimited spare time to do everything you’ve always wanted.

Visiting Europe is high on many people’s bucket lists and perhaps a high priority as you retire, but it can be costly and potentially dangerous. 

That doesn’t mean you should scratch it from your itinerary, though. Instead, look into visiting the following 15 safe and affordable European cities.

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Ljubljana, Slovenia

Your bank account won’t get homesick traveling to Ljubljana, Slovenia, one of the safest and most affordable European destinations. Aside from being rich in history and culture, the city also prides itself on being green.

The only major safety concern comes from pickpockets, though this can be expected at any tourist destination. The average daily cost to visit, including accommodations and food, ranges from $45 to $54.

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Lisbon, Portugal

Another great budget European destination is Lisbon, Portugal. The average daily cost is around $143, including transportation, food, and accommodations.

As for safety, it’s hard to beat the city’s ranking. Again, pickpockets and scams are the most significant risks at play, so just be alert and aware of your surroundings.

Zagreb, Croatia

Head to Zagreb, Croatia, if you love unique sightseeing opportunities, including historical cemeteries, vibrant arts and culinary scenes, museums, and more.

Zagreb is a very safe city if you take precautions against the local pickpockets. The average cost per day is just $86 a person.

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Tallinn, Estonia

If you want to spend your retirement enriching yourself in medieval history, look no further than Tallinn, Estonia. The city is steeped in history, from cathedrals to castles and more.

Including accommodations and food, you can expect to spend around $44 to $56 per day in the city. While the city is safe, you will need to remain vigilant against pickpockets and scams, especially transportation scams.

Istanbul, Turkey

Another breathtakingly gorgeous and historical city is Istanbul, Turkey. The average cost per day is low at just $47, and many free attractions and sightseeing opportunities exist.

Being a large, popular city, Istanbul can be less safe than other quieter destinations. Petty theft is the biggest risk, so as long as you’re aware of your surroundings, you should be fine. 

However, be aware of the city’s political climate before booking your flight, as this could pose a safety risk for travelers.

Porto, Portugal

Another Portuguese city perfect for retirees is Porto — average daily costs range from $43 to $58. You can visit 12th-century churches, gorgeous riverfronts, cafes, shops, and more.

Scams and pickpockets are cause for concern, but being aware and on guard can help prevent these petty crimes.

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Bavaria, Germany

Bavaria is not only one of the most gorgeous places to visit in Germany but also one of the safest. In fact, it has the lowest crime rate in the whole country. It’s also in Germany’s countryside, making it a lovely, lowkey spot for retirees.

It costs around $166 per day for food, transportation, and accommodation, but this is a reasonable number compared to other European destinations.

Andalusia, Spain

Spain is a gorgeous and relaxed country perfect for retirees, but many destinations are simply too expensive. Andalusia, and specifically the city of Málaga, is safe and affordable.

Aside from petty theft like pickpocketing, it’s incredibly safe for visiting retirees. As for the cost, expect an average of $138 per day.

Kotor, Montenegro

Another beautiful, affordable, and safe destination for retirees is yet again in the Balkans — this time in Kotor, Montenegro.

Montenegro is generally very safe, sans the occasional scam or pickpocket. Budget around $108 per day for transportation, food, and a place to stay, plus a little extra for shopping or sightseeing.

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Palermo, Sicily

Italy is another highly coveted destination for retirees, but many cities are unattainably expensive and can be dangerous in dense tourist destinations.

Palermo, Sicily, though, is a wonderful middle ground between the two. While scammers, pickpockets, and other petty criminals abound like any other travel site, it’s largely safe as long as you’re vigilant. 

As for cost, it’s roughly $101 per day for accommodation, food, and transportation.

The Peloponnese, Greece

Another Mediterranean destination retirees love is Greece. However, scammers run rampant in popular tourist sites, which are generally very pricey.

The Peloponnese, though, is both safe and affordable. Any city in the region is a great idea. The cost per day in Nafplio is around $122, for example. 

While some political unease exists in Athens and other Grecian destinations, the Peloponnese is a laid-back, rural site safe for visitors.

Klagenfurt, Austria

Another gorgeous medieval European city is Klagenfurt, Austria, which is both safe and affordable for retirees.

Klagenfurt is a safe city, but be aware that it’s close to the local airport, so petty theft may be more significant than other destinations. As for cost, a two-week trip for two is around $4,000, which comes out to around $143 per day per person.

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Riga, Latvia

Riga, Latvia, is a culture-rich European destination with lots of free or cheap things to enjoy as a retiree, including live music, local restaurants, museums and historical sites, and paddleboard tours.

The most significant risk in Riga is petty theft, like pickpocketing and scams. Scams usually involve being convinced to visit certain bars and then being grossly overcharged, so keep your wits about you.

Brasov, Romania

If you’re a fan of literature or history, visit Brasov, Romania — the home of Bran Castle, where Count Dracula's legend gained footing.

Not only is the city itself affordable to visit, but there are tons of free and inexpensive sightseeing options, like walking tours or cable cars that take you into the mountains. 

Again, pickpockets and scams are common but the only major source of crime, so be aware and alert.

Tbilisi, Georgia

Grab one of the best travel credit cards and head to the city of Tbilisi in Georgia. This is a wonderfully affordable travel option for retirees, with accommodations as low as $25 per night.

Tbilisi is also the largest city in, as well as the capital of, Georgia, making it a wonderfully busy place to sightsee. 

Even though it’s a popular tourist spot, it’s one of the safest cities not just in the country but on the continent. Common issues like pickpockets and scams are reported in very low numbers.

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Bottom line

There’s no better time to travel Europe than during retirement. With essentially unlimited free time, you can enjoy your destination at a slow pace tailored to your wants and needs.

You can also avoid wasting money on pricier destinations without compromising your safety. There are plenty of destinations that fit a reasonable or even tight budget and are safe and welcoming to all visitors.

More from FinanceBuzz:

• 6 genius hacks Costco shoppers should know
• 9 things you must do before the next recession.
• Can you retire early? Take this quiz and find out.
• 9 simple ways to make up to an extra $200/day

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