France

Paris

Paris is compact and best explored on foot and by metro. Charles de Gaulle is 25 km from the centre and getting in is straightforward, but the RER B line has a reputation for petty theft, so keep bags in front of you.

Entry requirements

Part of the Schengen area. US, UK, Canadian, and Australian passport holders can stay up to 90 days in any 180 day period without a visa. From 2025, the ETIAS travel authorisation applies to visa exempt visitors - a quick online form costing 7 euros.

Transportation

The RER B connects CDG to Gare du Nord in about 35 minutes for 11.80 euros. Inside the city, a Navigo Easy card holds a t+ ticket book at 1.73 euros per ride. Uber and G7 taxis are reliable but slower than the metro.

Currency

Euro. Cards are accepted almost everywhere including bakeries. Contactless payments up to 50 euros are normal.

Airports

Charles de Gaulle (CDG) handles most international arrivals. Orly (ORY) is smaller and mainly used by Air France domestic and low cost carriers.

Practical tips

Museums like the Louvre and Musee d'Orsay require timed entry tickets - book online the night before.
Restaurants serve lunch from about 12:00 to 14:30, then close. Dinner starts around 19:30.
Say bonjour when entering a shop. It changes how you are treated.

Common traveller mistakes

Taking the RER B late at night with luggage - use a taxi or Welcome Pickups after 22:00.
Tipping like in the US. Service is included and a euro or two is enough.