France Through Our Eyes: Romance, History & Road Trip Highlights

Medical Care

France has one of the most respected healthcare systems in the world, with high-quality hospitals, clinics, and emergency care available throughout the country.

While public hospitals (hôpitaux publics) are well-equipped and affordable, private clinics (cliniques privées) may offer quicker service.

EU citizens can access public healthcare with a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), while non-EU travelers are advised to carry comprehensive travel insurance.​

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Pharmacies (chemists) are widespread and often marked by a green cross. Pharmacists in France are highly trained and can advise on minor ailments and medications.

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💡 Tip: Carry your EHIC/GHIC card if you're from the EU/UK. Non-EU tourists should consider travel insurance with medical coverage.

General Health

●  Tap water is safe to drink across France, even in rural villages and mountain regions. 

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●  Food hygiene standards are high, and outbreaks of foodborne illness are rare.

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●  Vaccinations are not required for entry, but routine immunizations (e.g., MMR, DTP) should be up to date.

●  Public toilets can sometimes be scarce, so carry tissues and hand sanitizer when exploring smaller towns or the countryside.

●  Pharmacies are typically open Monday to Saturday, but in cities, you’ll always find a designated pharmacie de garde open after-hours or on Sundays. Look for posted notices on doors or ask locals.

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●  Insect bites can be common in summer, especially near water. Consider carrying insect repellent if visiting regions like the Camargue or Dordogne.

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💡 Tip: In summer, especially in southern France, be cautious of heatwaves (canicules). Stay hydrated and check local advisories.

Safety & Security

France is generally considered safe, but like any major travel destination, it’s wise to remain vigilant, particularly in large cities.

Pickpocketing is the most common issue, especially in metro stations, tourist hubs like the Eiffel Tower, and during festivals or public events.

💡 Be cautious when approached by strangers asking for signatures or donations near landmarks — these can be scams or distraction techniques used by pickpockets.

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​​Police presence is strong, and officers are approachable. That said, certain neighborhoods in cities like Marseille or the northern suburbs of Paris can feel less safe after dark.

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💡 For nightlife safety, never leave your drink unattended in bars or clubs, and consider using a ride-hailing app for late-night returns instead of walking or waiting at isolated metro stops.

Rural France, by contrast, is exceptionally calm and secure.

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During major protests (manifestations), avoid gathering points such as Place de la République in Paris or city centers in Lyon and Nantes. Demonstrations can escalate quickly, even if they begin peacefully.

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💡 Tip: Always keep an eye on your belongings in public places. Use a cross-body bag and avoid displaying expensive items like cameras or jewelry.

Safety Resources

●  Tourist Police (Police Municipale): Present in many tourist cities and trained to assist foreign visitors.

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●  Emergency Shelters: Available in cities during extreme weather conditions or civil unrest.

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●  Local Pharmacies: A first point of contact for minor injuries or non-urgent health issues.​

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💡 Tip: The “Système d’Alerte et d’Information des Populations (SAIP)” app provides real-time emergency alerts and is worth downloading before your trip.

Emergency Numbers

France uses a single emergency number system for ease of use:

●  112: General emergency line (works EU-wide)

●  15: Medical emergencies (SAMU)

●  17: Police

●  18: Fire brigade

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●  114: Emergency SMS number for people with hearing or speech difficulties

💡 Callers can dial 112 from any phone, including mobiles without a SIM card.

Additional Tips

●  Keep a digital and printed copy of your passport and travel insurance details.

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●  Most cities have CCTV in tourist areas — useful in case of incidents.

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●  For extended stays or remote travel, consider a SafetyWing or SafetyCard medical insurance policy with international support.

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●  In mountainous regions (e.g., Alps or Pyrenees), take out mountain rescue insurance, as standard travel insurance may not cover these emergencies.

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●  Public protests (manifestations) are relatively common. While usually peaceful, it's best to avoid large gatherings to stay safe.

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💡 Tip: Consider SafetyWing or similar travel insurance to cover healthcare, cancellations, and theft, especially for longer stays.