Contactless ('Sans Contact') Everywhere
France uses the Euro (€). Contactless Visa, Mastercard, Apple Pay, and Google Pay ('sans contact') are accepted at 98% of bistros, boulangeries, SNCF ticket machines, highway tolls, and pharmacies—even for a €1.30 baguette. American Express is accepted at upscale hotels and department stores but frequently declined at independent neighborhood bistros.
Avoiding ATM Fees & Dynamic Currency Conversion
Carry €40–€80 in €10 and €20 notes for village outdoor markets and public restrooms. Only withdraw cash from ATMs attached to real French retail banks—BNP Paribas, Société Générale, Crédit Agricole, LCL, Crédit Mutuel, or La Banque Postale—and avoid standalone Euronet or Travelex machines. Always choose to be billed in Euros (EUR), never your home currency.
Key Takeaways & Local Tips
- Verify schedules and book high-speed train tickets directly on SNCF Connect or the Bonjour RATP app.
- Save our offline French Phrasebook & Allergy Show-Cards on your phone before boarding your flight.
- Always greet staff with 'Bonjour' before asking a question in English or French.
Official sources & further reading
Rules, prices and schedules change. Confirm details here before you travel: