The quality of your experience in France often depends on the little details: a simple greeting, booking tickets ahead of time, and staying alert to pickpockets can significantly affect how your trip goes. The French value politeness but are also quick to respond warmly when shown respect. Mastering a few basic habits can make your travel experience completely different. Here are ten tips worth reviewing before you go.

1. Say Hello First: Always say Bonjour when entering a shop or elevator, and Merci when leaving. This is basic courtesy in France and can make people more friendly toward you.
2. France Uses the Euro: The euro symbol is €, which is different from the British pound. For international trips, prepare cash in euros or simply use a bank card.
3. Prevent Pickpocketing: Pickpockets are common on Paris metro lines and at popular tourist sites. Wear your bag in front, don’t put your phone or wallet in the outer pockets of your coat, and try to avoid standing near the doors on public transport.
4. Book High-Speed Rail Early: TGV tickets are much cheaper the earlier you book. Prices can more than double close to departure, and during peak season it’s wise to book over a month in advance.
5. Book Museum Tickets in Advance: Sites like the Louvre, Musée d'Orsay, and Versailles require you to reserve a time slot on their official websites. Queues at the door can often take over an hour.
6. Watch Out for Sundays and August: Many shops are closed on Sundays, and in August many locals are on vacation, with some restaurants closing for weeks at a time.
7. Tipping Rules: Service charges are usually included in the bill. There’s no need to tip an extra 15%. Leaving small change or around 5% is fine if you’re satisfied with the service.
8. Plugs and Voltage: France uses Type E plugs with two round holes and runs on 230V. You’ll need a plug adapter for appliances from other countries, but no voltage converter is necessary.
9. Drinking Water Habits: You can ask for a free carafe of tap water (une carafe d’eau) in restaurants—you don’t have to buy bottled water.
10. Emergency Numbers: Dial 17 for police, 15 for medical emergencies, and 18 for fire. The EU-wide emergency number is 112, where English may be spoken.

The French are generally friendly toward tourists. As long as you start with a polite greeting and follow basic dining and shopping etiquette, most interactions will go smoothly and pleasantly. Slowing down your pace a bit will help you experience travel more like a local.

For your budget, lunch specials, supermarket shopping, and daily metro passes are three great ways to save. Staying near a metro line rather than right next to major tourist sights can also save you a lot of money, letting you put your budget toward museums, food, and the experiences you truly want—giving you better overall value.

Save this checklist to your phone before you go. It’ll help you handle any issues with ease while traveling. Wishing you a smooth and enjoyable trip.