The thought of sipping coffee at a Parisian café, wandering through lavender fields in Provence, or gazing at the glamorous French Riviera is enough to make anyone start packing. But before you get lost in daydreams of baguettes and Bordeaux, let’s talk about the practical side. A little bit of preparation is the secret ingredient to a truly smooth and magical French holiday. This checklist will guide you through the key steps, from the boring-but-necessary documents to the little tips that make all the difference.
The Absolute Must-Dos: Documents and Money
Let’s get the admin out of the way first. Nail this part, and you can relax completely.
Sort Your Documents
First things first, check your passport. As a general rule for France, it should be valid for at least three months after the date you plan to leave the European Union. Don’t cut it close; give yourself plenty of buffer.
Next, understand your visa requirements. If you’re a US, Canadian, or UK citizen visiting for up to 90 days as a tourist, you don’t need a visa. However, starting in 2025, the EU will be implementing a new system called ETIAS for visa-exempt travelers, so keep an eye on that for future trips.
Now, for the most important item: travel insurance. I cannot stress this enough. A simple doctor’s visit or a missed train due to illness can quickly turn into a financial nightmare. Get a policy that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellation, and lost luggage. It’s a small price for immense peace of mind.
Manage Your Money
Notify your bank and credit card companies of your travel dates and destinations. The last thing you want is a frozen card because the fraud department spotted a croissant purchase in Lyon.
France, especially Paris, is a credit-card-friendly place, but you should always have some cash on hand. The best way to get Euros is usually from a French ATM upon arrival, as they often offer better exchange rates than airport kiosks. Just check with your bank about foreign transaction fees first.
A pro tip: Make sure you have a credit card with a PIN chip. While signature-based cards are sometimes accepted, many automated kiosks—like for train tickets or toll booths—require a chip and PIN.
Smart Planning: Getting Around and Staying Connected
A bit of foresight here will save you from headaches and long lines.
Book Key Tickets in Advance
This is the golden rule for a stress-free trip to France’s popular spots. Major attractions like the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum, and the Palace of Versailles have massive lines that can waste hours of your day. You can, and should, book your time-slotted tickets online weeks, sometimes months, in advance. You’ll often walk right past the endless queue.
The same goes for long-distance train travel. Booking TGV (high-speed train) tickets on the SNCF website ahead of time can save you a significant amount of money compared to buying them last minute at the station.
Plan Your Connectivity
You have a few good options. Check if your mobile provider offers an affordable international data plan. If not, you can buy a local SIM card at the airport or in town from French providers like Orange, SFR, or Free. For many, the easiest solution is an eSIM if your phone is unlocked and supports it—you can download a data plan before you even leave home.
What to Actually Pack: Less is More
You’ll be glad you packed light when you’re navigating a metro station with stairs or hauling a bag onto a train.
Build a Versatile Wardrobe
The key to dressing well in France is versatility and neutral colors. Think mix-and-match pieces. A couple of pairs of well-fitting jeans or trousers, comfortable walking shoes (break them in first!), a few tops, and a classic jacket or cardigan will serve you well.
Pack one slightly dressier outfit. While casual wear is fine for daytime, the French often dress up a bit for a nice dinner or an evening out. And don’t forget a scarf—it’s the ultimate French accessory and is perfect for adding a layer when the weather turns chilly or for covering your shoulders when visiting churches.
Don’t Forget These Essentials
A universal power adapter is non-negotiable. France uses Type E sockets with two round pins. A portable power bank is a lifesaver for keeping your phone charged while using maps all day. Also, a reusable water bottle is great—you can fill it up for free at public water fountains, many of which offer perfectly clean drinking water.
Cultural Prep: The Icing on the Cake
Knowing a few local customs will enrich your experience immensely.
Learn a Few Key Phrases
The French deeply appreciate it when visitors make an effort to speak their language. You don’t need to be fluent. Just mastering the basics will open doors and smiles.
- Bonjour (Hello / Good day)
- Merci (Thank you)
- S’il vous plaît (Please)
- Au revoir (Goodbye)
- Une carafe d’eau (A carafe of water – this gets you free tap water in restaurants)
Understand Dining Rhythms
Mealtimes are sacred. Lunch is typically from 12 pm to 2 pm, and dinner rarely starts before 7:30 pm. If you try to find a sit-down meal at 5 pm, you might be out of luck. Also, service is often more relaxed. Your server isn’t ignoring you; they’re letting you enjoy your meal. You’ll usually have to ask for the bill (“L’addition, s’il vous plaît”).
With these boxes ticked, you’re not just ready for France—you’re ready to thrive. You can step off the plane feeling confident, organized, and free to fully immerse yourself in the art, food, and beauty that makes France so unforgettable. Now, all that’s left is the adventure itself.
You’re Ready for Your French Adventure
Stepping off the plane in France with your documents sorted, your key tickets booked, and a few French phrases in your pocket is a feeling like no other. This preparation isn’t about creating a rigid schedule; it’s about giving yourself the freedom to be spontaneous. When the admin is handled, you’re free to get lost in a charming side street, accept a last-minute invitation to a local market, or simply spend an extra hour at a café watching the world go by.
Remember, the goal isn’t to plan every second. It’s to build a foundation of comfort and confidence. You’ve done the work. You’ve earned the peace of mind. Now, you can fully relax and let the magic of France take over. From the bustling boulevards of Paris to the serene landscapes of the countryside, your unforgettable journey awaits. All that’s left to do is to say, “Bonjour!” and enjoy every single moment.
Frequently Asked Questions
I’m overwhelmed by the Eiffel Tower website. How do I actually get tickets?
You’re not alone! The official website can be confusing, especially when tickets are released 60 days in advance and sell out quickly. The key is to be on the site right when tickets for your date become available. If you find it’s all sold out, don’t panic. A great alternative is to book a guided tour, which almost always includes tower access. It’s a bit more expensive, but it guarantees your spot and you might learn some fascinating history in the process.
Is it true that Parisians are rude to tourists?
This is a persistent myth, but it’s largely untrue. Parisians, like people in any busy capital, appreciate politeness and effort. The single most important thing you can do is always greet shopkeepers and servers with a friendly “Bonjour, Madame/Monsieur” when you enter a store or café. Launching straight into a question in English is often seen as impolite. A simple “Bonjour” first, followed by “Parlez-vous anglais?” (Do you speak English?) will be met with much more warmth and help.
What’s the best way to handle the Paris Metro?
The Metro is efficient and easy to use once you get the hang of it. Don’t buy single tickets. Instead, get a “carnet” (a pack of 10 tickets) or, for longer stays, consider a weekly or multi-day Navigo pass. Download a Metro map app on your phone (Citymapper is fantastic) to plan your routes. The most important thing is to just be aware of your surroundings and keep your bag or wallet secure in crowded carriages, as pickpockets do operate in touristy areas.
Should I rent a car for my trip?
It depends entirely on your itinerary. For exploring Paris or other major cities, a car is a expensive and stressful liability due to traffic, confusing rules, and impossible parking. However, if you dream of exploring the countryside—like the lavender fields of Provence, the chateaux of the Loire Valley, or the coastal roads of Normandy—a rental car is absolutely the way to go. It gives you the freedom to discover hidden villages and stop at scenic viewpoints at your own pace.
What is the “carafe d’eau” trick?
This is a simple money-saving tip for dining out. In French restaurants, if you ask for bottled water, you’ll be given (and charged for) expensive mineral water. Instead, ask for “une carafe d’eau,” which means a carafe of water. By law, they must provide you with free tap water, which is perfectly safe to drink and will save you a few euros every meal.