Tap water
Tap water is generally safe to drink.
Europe country brief
France travel essentials
France uses Type C / Type E power outlets at 230V, 50Hz. The general emergency number is 112. Tap water is generally safe to drink.
Last reviewed
Verify visa and entry rules with official authorities before travel.
Quick answer
France uses Type C / Type E power outlets at 230V, 50Hz. The general emergency number is 112. Tap water is generally safe to drink.
P
Power and plugs
- Plug types
- Type C, Type E
- Voltage
- 230V
- Frequency
- 50Hz
France runs at 230V. Travelers from 100–127V regions (US, Japan) need a voltage converter for devices that aren't dual-voltage.
E
Emergency numbers
General
112
Police
17
Ambulance
15 (SAMU)
T
Travel notes
Tipping
Service is included by law in many restaurants. Tipping is optional; rounding up or leaving a few euros for good service is appreciated but not expected in the same way as in North America.
Best season
Late spring and early autumn bring warm days, long light and thinner crowds. July and August are peak tourist months, while many smaller businesses outside resort areas may take summer holidays.
Visa basics
France is in the Schengen Area. Many non-EU nationals can stay visa-free for short tourism trips, while others need a Schengen visa. Confirm current requirements with France-Visas or your nearest French consulate.
✓
Before you go: France checklist
- Pack a Type C/Type E plug adapter for France.
- France runs at 230V. Travelers from 100–127V regions (US, Japan) need a voltage converter for devices that aren't dual-voltage.
- Bring a refillable bottle — tap water in France is generally safe.
- Save the emergency number 112 in your phone before you arrive.
- If you'll drive, remember traffic keeps to the right in France.
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Reference
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Questions
Frequently asked questions
Can I drink tap water in France? ⌄
Yes. Tap water in France is considered safe to drink.
What power plug and voltage are used in France? ⌄
France uses Type C, Type E plugs running at 230V, 50Hz. France runs at 230V. Travelers from 100–127V regions (US, Japan) need a voltage converter for devices that aren't dual-voltage.
What is the emergency number in France? ⌄
Dial 112 for general emergencies in France. Police: 17. Ambulance: 15 (SAMU).
When is the best time to visit France? ⌄
Late spring and early autumn bring warm days, long light and thinner crowds. July and August are peak tourist months, while many smaller businesses outside resort areas may take summer holidays.
Which side of the road do they drive on in France? ⌄
In France, traffic drives on the right side of the road, so the steering wheel is on the left.
What is the country calling code for France? ⌄
The international dialing code for France is +33. Dial this prefix after your exit code (e.g. 00 or +) to call a France number from abroad.
S
Sources
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