Traveller questions
Traveller questions
Here are the questions travellers most often ask before a trip to Paris and once they arrive. The answers are short and general: if a question involves prices, entry rules or timetables, we tell you where to check the current information rather than quoting figures that may go out of date.
Most travel questions have an official answer. Our job is to tell you where to find it.
How this section works: a question is included if travellers ask it often and it can be answered without made-up prices or promises. We do not offer individual advice or bookings.
Before your trip
Do I need a visa for France?
France is part of the Schengen Area. Whether you need a visa depends on your nationality: check the requirements on the French embassy or consulate website.
What is EES?
It is the Entry/Exit System being phased in at the Schengen external borders from 12 October 2025. Biometric data is recorded when you cross the border.
When is the best time to go?
It depends on your goals. Summer is busier with longer queues; the warmer months suit gardens and trips out of town, while museums are fine at any time of year.
Do I need to book museums in advance?
For popular places, often yes, but the conditions change. Check them on the museums' official websites and don't buy tickets from resellers.
Once you're there
How do I use the metro after the reform?
You need a "Metro – Train – RER" ticket on a Navigo Easy card or in the app. Buses and trams need a separate "Bus – Tram" ticket.
How do I get in from the airport?
From Charles de Gaulle, take the RER B; from Orly, take metro line 14. A separate fare applies to journeys to and from the airports.
Can I hail a VTC car in the street?
No. VTC cars can only be booked through an app. Only official taxis can be hailed in the street.
What number do I call in an emergency?
112 — the single emergency number in the European Union.
Money and staying connected
Do I need to tip?
It's not compulsory. Service in French restaurants is included in the price by law (service compris); tipping is optional.
How much does a trip to Paris cost?
We don't give budgets: prices for accommodation, transport and museums change. Check them on official websites before your trip.
When are the sales in France?
Seasonal sales (soldes) take place twice a year, in winter and summer. The dates are set officially.
How do I stay connected?
Check your mobile provider's roaming terms in advance or choose a local plan. Download offline maps and transport apps before you fly.
Article catalogue for English-speaking readers
This section will feature standalone articles for English-speaking travellers. They are written with their questions in mind and are not translations of material from other language versions of the site.
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Player FAQ on GTA 6 assistance and boosting: what kinds of help exist, what is confirmed before launch, and what to check before paying any service.
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How to research Aion 2 sealed dungeons after the global launch: where to verify details, how to plan runs, and what to weigh before any paid assistance.
Topics our editors are planning
- Paris by train from London: arriving at Gare du Nord and getting around
- Paying in Paris: cards, contactless and when you still need cash
- A first weekend in Paris: how to pace two days without rushing
- Paris on foot in the rain: covered passages and indoor stops
Editorial rules
- Articles in this catalogue are written separately for each language version and are not translations.
- Some articles link to third-party websites, including gaming services; we do not control their content, prices or terms.
- We do not publish unverifiable ratings of hotels or tours, prices or reviews.
Related sections
- Trip planning
How to plan a trip to Paris step by step: documents, season, accommodation, transport, itinerary.
- Transport
Tickets after the 2025 fare reform, the metro and RER, getting in from the airports, taxis and bikes.
- Local guide
Everyday etiquette, safety and useful French phrases.
Sources
- Île-de-France Mobilités
- European Commission (EES)
- Museum websites
- Paris je t'aime (Paris tourist office)
Information is correct as of the date of preparation. Fares, timetables, museum opening hours and entry rules change, so check them on official websites before you travel.