ABOUT FRANCE

France, located in Western Europe, is renowned for its rich cultural heritage, historical landmarks, and diverse landscapes. The capital city, Paris, is famous for iconic structures like the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum, and Notre-Dame Cathedral. France is known for its culinary excellence, with its cuisine celebrated worldwide, from fine dining in Michelin-starred restaurants to local delicacies in quaint bistros. 

The country boasts picturesque countryside, including the rolling vineyards of Bordeaux and Burgundy, the lavender fields of Provence, and the stunning beaches of the French Riviera. Historically, France has played a pivotal role in global events, from the French Revolution to its contributions during both World Wars. Its influence on art, fashion, and philosophy is profound, with luminaries such as Claude Monet, Coco Chanel, and René Descartes shaping their respective fields. 

The French language, known for its elegance and complexity, is spoken by millions around the world. France's diverse climate ranges from Mediterranean in the south to temperate in the north and alpine in the mountainous regions. The nation is also a leader in wine production, hosting famous wine regions like Champagne and Alsace. As a member of the European Union, France plays a significant role in European politics and economics, continually shaping the continent's future.

Entry into France

If you are a citizen of a European Union country, it's going to be easy. France is part of the Schengen area, so you can travel there without restrictions, visas and even without a passport - just your country's ID card.

Currency

In France, you pay in euros. Most merchants now routinely accept all payment cards from the world's card associations. However, if you plan to rent a car, carry a credit card. Regular debit cards are usually not accepted for this purpose. There is a very dense network of ATMs in all cities. However, we recommend that you only withdraw money from those operated by banks. If you come across ATMs operated by other operators, such as Euronet, you will likely be charged a withdrawal fee of up to €10, or 10% of the transaction.

Electricity

In France, 230 V AC with a frequency of 5 Hz is standard, as it is throughout continental Europe.

Mobile services

In France, there are three leading mobile operators: Orange, SFR, and Bouygues Telecom. European Union citizens benefit from paying the standard tariff that applies in their home country when using their mobile phones in France. However, it is important to note that data charges may vary depending on their home network's specific agreements and policies. 

These operators offer a wide range of services and coverage across the country, ensuring that both locals and visitors have access to reliable mobile connectivity. Additionally, they provide various plans and packages to cater to different usage needs, from basic calling and texting to extensive data options.

Important telephone numbers

There are several important phone numbers in France that residents and visitors should know for emergencies and basic services. Here are some of the most important ones:

When in France, it's useful to know some important telephone numbers. Here's a list of key contact numbers along with the country code (+33):

• Emergency Services (Police, Fire, Ambulance): 112 (EU-wide emergency number)
• Police: 17
• Fire Brigade: 18
• Ambulance/Medical Assistance (SAMU): 15
• SOS Doctors: 3624
• Poison Control Center: 01 40 05 48 48
• Pharmacy on Duty: 3237
• Lost/Stolen Credit Cards: 0 892 705 705
• Roadside Assistance: 17 or 112

Interesting facts about France

France is a country with a rich tapestry of culture, history, and intriguing facts. Here are some fascinating aspects of France:

Cultural Treasures
Boasting 45 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, France is home to gems like the ancient city of Carcassonne, the opulent Palace of Versailles, and the iconic Mont Saint-Michel.

French Language
French is the official language and is spoken by approximately 76 million people worldwide as their first language. It's also one of the most studied languages globally.

Wine Excellence
As one of the world's top wine producers, France is famous for regions such as Bordeaux, Burgundy, and Champagne, producing between 7-8 billion bottles annually.

Gastronomic Delights
Renowned worldwide, French cuisine includes delicacies like croissants, baguettes, escargot, and coq au vin. The country boasts the highest number of Michelin-starred restaurants globally.

Artistic and Literary Hub
France has long been a centre for art and literature, home to illustrious figures like painter Claude Monet and writers Victor Hugo and Marcel Proust.

Fashion Capital
Paris is one of the world's fashion capitals, housing major fashion houses such as Chanel, Louis Vuitton, and Dior.

Eiffel Tower
The Eiffel Tower in Paris is one of the world's most visited landmarks, attracting nearly 7 million visitors each year.

Historical Impact
The French Revolution of 1789 was a pivotal event that ended the monarchy and established the French Republic, influencing global history and politics.

Advanced Public Transport
France features a highly developed public transportation system, including the TGV (Train à Grande Vitesse), among the fastest trains in the world.

Esteemed Education
The French education system is highly regarded, with prestigious institutions like the Sorbonne and the École Normale Supérieure known for their academic excellence.