France captivates visitors with its iconic landmarks, world-renowned cuisine, and rich cultural heritage spanning millennia. From the romantic streets of Paris to the lavender fields of Provence, sun-soaked beaches of the Riviera to the snow-capped Alps, France offers diverse experiences for every traveler. Discover medieval villages, Gothic cathedrals, Renaissance châteaux, and contemporary art while savoring exceptional wines and cheeses.
France is a safe destination for tourists with a low violent crime rate and excellent infrastructure. The primary concerns are petty theft and pickpocketing in Paris's tourist-heavy areas, particularly the Metro and major attractions. Terrorism threat has been elevated since 2015 but comprehensive security measures are in place at major sites.
Current safety advisory
Low
Exercise normal precautions. Be aware of pickpocketing in Paris tourist areas, particularly Metro Line 1, near the Eiffel Tower, and in Montmartre. Stay alert at Gare du Nord and Gare de l'Est. Avoid unauthorized street vendors near attractions who may attempt distraction theft.
Last updated: 2025-01
Official advisories
Guidance from national travel-advisory services.
Level 2 - Exercise Increased Caution
France has elevated terrorist threat level (Urgence Attentat). Be vigilant at crowded places including markets, festivals, transport hubs, and tourist sites. Follow instructions of French security services.
Standard Travel Advice
France is a safe destination. Be alert to petty crime particularly in Paris and on the Riviera. Carry only what you need. Terrorism risk exists throughout France; follow official guidance.
Essential safety tips
Practical advice that applies everywhere.
Stay alert in crowded tourist areas and transportation hubs
Watch for pickpockets in Paris Metro, Eiffel Tower, and major attractions
Avoid demonstrations and large gatherings
Keep valuables secure and out of sight
Use licensed taxis or reputable ride-sharing apps
Be cautious at night in unfamiliar areas
Keep copies of passport and important documents
Register with your embassy or consulate upon arrival for emergency alerts and assistance
France has strict laws on photography of government buildings, police, and military installations — ask before shooting
Carry your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) or travel insurance for medical coverage; pharmacies (identified by green cross signs) are widely available
Common scams to avoid
Recognise and sidestep tourist-targeted scams.
Petition / Bracelet Scam
Around Sacré-Cœur, Eiffel Tower, and Notre-Dame, individuals approach tourists with a clipboard claiming to represent a deaf charity or asking you to sign a petition, then demand money. The 'friendship bracelet' variant ties a bracelet to your wrist then refuses to remove it without payment.
How to avoid: Walk past decisively saying 'Non merci' — do not engage, do not make eye contact, do not stop walking. It is legal to refuse.
Distraction Pickpocketing
Groups, often including children, stage distractions (someone drops papers, blocks your path, asks for help) while an accomplice steals from your bag or pocket. Most active on Metro Line 1, at the Louvre entrance, and on the Champs-Élysées.
How to avoid: Wear bags across your body and in front. Use a money belt. Be suspicious of unexpected crowds pressing against you. Keep phones in front pockets.
Taxi Overcharging
Unlicensed 'taxis' at CDG and ORY airports offer rides to Paris at unmetered prices. They are illegal and can charge €100-200 for a ride that should cost €50-60 with an official taxi.
How to avoid: Only use official Paris taxis (white rooftop lights) or book Uber/G7 in advance. Paris taxis have mandatory fixed flat rates from CDG (€55-65) and ORY (€35-45).
The Gold Ring Scam
A person 'finds' a gold ring near you and offers it as a gift, then asks for money for food or a ticket. The ring is worthless brass.
How to avoid: Don't accept it or engage. Walk away.
Restaurant Menu Bait-and-Switch
Some tourist-trap restaurants near major attractions show one menu outside and present a different, more expensive one inside. Common on Rue de la Huchette and near tourist hotspots.
How to avoid: Avoid restaurants that aggressively tout for customers outside. Check prices before sitting. Ask to see the menu before committing.
Health considerations
Staying healthy on your trip.
- Vaccinations
- Routine vaccines up to date (MMR, DPT, flu). Hepatitis A and B for longer stays. Tick-borne encephalitis if hiking in rural areas.
- Water
- Completely safe to drink throughout France. Paris tap water from fountains (fontaines Wallace) also safe. Restaurants must provide free tap water if requested.
- Food
- Digestive issues from rich food (pharmacists recommend Smecta). Walking injuries from cobblestones. Sunburn in south. Altitude sickness in Alps (stay hydrated, ascend gradually).
- Facilities
- Public hospitals (hôpitaux) provide excellent care. American Hospital in Paris (private) has English-speaking staff. Wait times can be long for non-emergencies.
Safety for specific travellers
Tailored advice for different groups.
Solo travellers
France is very safe for solo travelers of all backgrounds. Paris has an extensive public transport network that runs late, well-lit streets in central areas, and a strong café culture that means solo visitors are never truly alone. Register with your embassy and share your itinerary with someone at home. The main risks are pickpocketing rather than personal safety.
Female travellers
France is generally safe for solo female travelers. Paris is considered one of Europe's safer capitals for women traveling alone. Exercise the same awareness as in any major Western city: avoid walking alone late at night in the 18th (beyond Pigalle), 19th, and peripheral 20th arrondissements. Sexual harassment ('harcèlement de rue') is illegal in France since 2018 with on-the-spot fines for offenders.
Families
France is exceptionally family-friendly. Roads, transport, and accommodation are all well-equipped for families with children. Child safety seats are mandatory in cars. Public spaces, museums, and restaurants actively welcome children. Beach waters are well-patrolled in summer with flags indicating swimming conditions. Pharmacies stock all children's medications.
LGBTQ+ travellers
France is one of Europe's most LGBTQ+-friendly destinations. Same-sex marriage has been legal since 2013. Paris's Marais neighborhood is the center of French gay culture. The French Riviera has a strong LGBTQ+ scene, particularly Nice and Cannes. Public displays of affection are generally accepted. Paris Pride (Marche des Fiertés) in late June is one of Europe's largest LGBTQ+ events.
Emergency contacts
Numbers to know before you go.
- Police
- 17
- Medical
- 15
- Embassy
- Tourist Police