Travel Insurance for France and Safety Tips for Visitors

Find the Best Visitors Coverage for Your French Adventure

Securing travel insurance for France is essential to ensure your trip goes smoothly. Whether you’re visiting charming villages, iconic landmarks, or vibrant cities, it provides vital protection against unexpected disruptions like medical emergencies, flight delays, or lost luggage.

In this article, we’ll walk you through France’s travel insurance requirements, available coverage options, and typical costs to help you find the best plan for your needs. We’ll also share key safety tips to make your trip to France both enjoyable and worry-free.

Do I Need Travel Insurance for France?

Travel insurance is mandatory for all non-EU travelers, who must present an insurance certificate upon arrival in France. This certificate must prove coverage for all medical and hospital expenses, including repatriation and death-related costs, for the entire duration of their stay.

If you need a Schengen visa to enter France, your policy must provide at least €30,000 in medical coverage. Since tourists often have to pay for medical services out of pocket, these expenses can quickly add up, making comprehensive coverage essential to protect you from costly bills.

EU visitors typically have access to healthcare through the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) or the newer European Health Insurance Card (EHIC 2). Both cards are valid and accepted across EU countries, allowing travelers to receive necessary medical treatment during temporary stays in France and elsewhere.

However, additional coverage is still advisable to protect against other risks, such as repatriation, lost luggage, or trip cancellations. Additionally, if you plan to participate in high-risk outdoor activities, your policy should cover medical evacuation and helicopter rescue.

Read More: Is Travel Insurance Worth It?

Travel Insurance for Common Risks in France

Understanding the common travel risks in France can help you prepare for a safe and smooth trip. Here are the key risks to consider:

Medical Expenses

Although medical costs in France are generally lower than in many other countries, foreign travelers often have to pay out of pocket for medical visits and hospital stays.

Without coverage, emergency room visits can cost around €100 (USD 120), and unexpected medical bills can quickly add up. A comprehensive travel health insurance is essential to protect you from costly expenses.

Transportation Strikes

Flight cancellations, delays, and lost luggage are common travel disruptions in France. Frequent strikes affecting public transport and airports cause major issues.

For example, in early 2023, air traffic controller strikes led to over 6,300 flight cancellations, impacting around 10 million passengers. On strike days, flight punctuality dropped from 80% to 71%.

Major airlines such as Ryanair, Air France, and easyJet were heavily affected, with Ryanair experiencing over 300 daily delays. These disruptions impact flights both within and passing through French airspace.

Travel insurance covering these risks can help you rebook flights, arrange alternative transport, or replace lost belongings without extra costs. Given the regularity of strikes, comprehensive coverage is essential.

Weather-Related Delays

France experiences seasonal weather disruptions, especially in winter. Heavy snow and fog in regions like the French Alps and northern France often delay flights, trains, and road travel.

For example, winter storms have caused cancellations on the TGV high-speed rail and delayed flights at major airports such as Charles de Gaulle.

A travel plan that covers weather-related delays can protect you from extra costs.

Terrorism and Civil Unrest

France faces increased risks from terrorism and civil unrest compared to some other European countries. Large-scale protests and strikes can disrupt travel plans, especially in major cities like Paris.

To safeguard your trip, consider a policy that includes coverage for cancellations or interruptions caused by terrorism, security alerts, or civil unrest.

Pickpocketing and Theft

Popular tourist cities like Paris, Nice, and Lyon are known hotspots for pickpockets and bag snatchers, particularly around crowded landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Montmartre, and metro stations.

Travel insurance with theft coverage helps you recover lost valuables and continue your trip with less hassle.

Rental Car Risks

Driving in France can be challenging due to unfamiliar road rules, tolls, and narrow country roads. Accidents and damage to rental cars are common risks.

Many travel policies offer optional rental car damage coverage to protect you from costly repairs or liability.

Adventure and Outdoor Activities

France is famous for outdoor pursuits like mountaineering, skiing, hiking, and other adventure sports. Most standard travel policies exclude high-risk activities, so if you plan to participate in these, look for add-on options like winter sports or adventure coverage.

These typically include protection against avalanche delays, injuries, and emergency evacuations, including helicopter rescue.

Planning to hit the slopes? If you plan to visit ski resorts in the French Alps or engage in other winter sports, be sure your policy specifically covers winter sports – many standard plans exclude these activities. Look for a policy that includes skiing, snowboarding, and other related risks like equipment damage and mountain rescue.

What Does France Travel Insurance Cover and Exclude?

How Much is Travel Insurance for France?

Travel insurance for France typically costs between $1 and $5 or more per day, depending on your age, trip details, and the overall benefits package you select. Plans with lower medical limits and higher deductibles will cost less, and vice versa.

For example, a 35-year-old traveling from the US to France for seven days might pay between $10 and $20 total for a travel medical plan, while a 65-year-old would typically pay between $40 and $50 total for the same coverage.

Costs also depend on your premium (the amount you pay upfront or in installments), deductibles (what you pay out of pocket before coverage starts), co-pays (fixed fees for some services), and the scope of emergency and trip disruption coverage. Policy exclusions can also affect pricing.

Compare travel insurance plans from multiple providers to find the best value for your trip and needs. Review each plan’s coverage carefully, especially for emergency medical expenses, trip cancellation, and lost luggage, to ensure it meets your requirements. Consider if you need extra protection for pre-existing conditions or adventure activities.

How to Choose the Right Travel Insurance for France

With so many travel insurance options available, choosing the right plan can feel overwhelming.

To help, consider these key points as you plan your trip:

• Assess Your Medical Needs: Think about your current health and any ongoing conditions. Ensure your policy covers both emergencies and any routine care you might need in France. Check if pre-existing conditions are included or require an add-on.
• Consider Your Activities: France attracts many adventure travelers who enjoy Alpine skiing, mountaineering in the Pyrenees, and cycling through its wine regions. If you plan to participate in these activities, choose a policy that includes adventure sports coverage or offers add-ons for higher-risk pursuits. Keep in mind, mountain rescue services – especially airlifts from remote areas – can be very costly.
• Trip Duration: Planning a longer stay in France? The more time you spend exploring, the higher the chance of unexpected situations. Ensure your travel plan covers your entire trip, from arrival to departure. It’s also worth considering trip cancellation or interruption protection – life has a way of throwing curveballs when you least expect them.
• Destination-Specific Risks: France has a higher-than-average risk of terrorism and civil unrest. Demonstrations are common and often disrupt public transport, airports, and roads. In mountainous areas, snowfall and sudden weather changes can make trails hazardous. Recent wildfires in the South and Southwest have also wrought havoc and disrupted many holiday plans. Keep these risks in mind when selecting a policy.
• Understand Coverage Limits: Don’t just skim the brochure; carefully review the limits for emergency medical care, medical evacuation, repatriation, trip cancellation, and lost luggage. Medical costs can escalate quickly, especially if you need evacuation to a specialized facility or repatriation. Make sure you know exactly what your policy covers before you need it most.

Read More: How to Choose a Travel Medical Insurance Plan

The Best Travel Insurance for France

Below are our top recommended French travel insurance plans. Each offers unique benefits tailored to various needs, from medical emergencies to trip protection.

The Best Travel Health Insurance for France

The IMG Patriot Platinum plan is one of the most comprehensive travel medical plans for visitors to France. It offers top-tier medical coverage, global emergency support, and essential travel benefits.

Whether you’re wandering the streets of Paris, hiking in the French Alps, or enjoying the vineyards of Bordeaux, traveling across France can come with unexpected risks. From sudden illness to accidents on trains or buses, a reliable travel medical plan ensures you’re protected throughout your journey.

 

The Atlas Travel Insurance plan is a flexible and affordable option for visitors to France. Even the most budget-friendly policies offer excellent customer service and comprehensive benefits.

The plan stands out due to its trip interruption coverage, reimbursing up to $10,000. If you need to cut your trip short, it will cover all associated costs, providing financial protection against unexpected disruptions.

 

GeoBlue’s Voyager Travel Insurance plan is our top recommendation for U.S. travelers visiting France. Affiliated with Blue Cross Blue Shield, it provides access to a premium network of doctors and hospitals worldwide.

What sets this policy apart is its coverage for pre-existing conditions, making it an excellent choice for travelers with ongoing health concerns. It offers peace of mind, knowing that your medical needs will be fully addressed while abroad.

 

The Best Trip Cancellation Plans for France

With Trawick Safe Travels AnyReason, U.S. citizens and residents can travel confidently, knowing they have both flexibility and financial protection against unexpected changes to their trip itinerary.

This plan offers one of the best Cancel for Any Reason (CFAR) benefits at no additional cost. Trawick will reimburse you for up to 75% of your prepaid, non-refundable trip expenses if you have to cancel your trip for reasons beyond the standard covered events.

 

World Nomads Travel Insurance is a top choice for non-U.S. citizens seeking a travel plan with trip cancellation coverage. Policyholders can recover non-refundable expenses such as flights, accommodations, and prepaid activities.

Beyond trip cancellation coverage, World Nomads also provides coverage for over 200 adventure activities, emergency medical expenses, emergency evacuation and repatriation, and protection against lost or stolen baggage and personal belongings.

 

Preparing for Your Trip to France

Before traveling to France, it’s important to prepare for potential health and safety challenges. From packing essential medical supplies and getting the recommended vaccinations to understanding how the French healthcare system works, here are some key guidelines to help you get started.

Medical Preparation for Travel to France

It’s always wise to pack a travel health kit before your trip. This should include your health insurance documents, prescription medicines, and copies of prescriptions, as well as basic supplies like pain relievers, allergy medicine, and first-aid items.

You might also want to pack remedies for headaches, scrapes, and sunburns, along with any personal medications. Since ticks are becoming more common in the French countryside, consider adding tick tweezers and antiseptic.

Check the expected temperatures before you travel, as recent summer heat waves have been severe. Tap water is safe to drink, and staying hydrated is crucial. France’s food and water safety standards are on par with those of other developed countries. However, pregnant women should know that most French cheeses are unpasteurized and may carry Listeria bacteria.

If you have any severe medical conditions, consult your doctor before traveling. Even though traveling to France generally poses no particular health risks, it’s a good idea to ensure you’re up to date with your vaccinations.

What Vaccinations Do I Need for France?

There are no mandatory vaccinations required for entry into France. However, all travelers should ensure they are up to date on routine vaccinations before their trip. This includes immunizations for measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis (DTaP), varicella (chickenpox), polio, and seasonal flu.

In addition to these routine vaccines, some travelers may benefit from extra protection. The hepatitis A vaccine is advisable for most visitors to France, especially those who plan to spend time in rural areas or eat food from street vendors.

Hepatitis B vaccination is also advised for travelers who may stay for an extended period, have close contact with locals, or might need medical treatment during their trip.

Although rabies is extremely rare in France, the virus does exist in bats. If you plan to explore caves, work with animals, or spend significant time outdoors in remote areas, it’s worth considering a pre-exposure rabies vaccination. Anyone bitten or scratched by an animal should wash the wound thoroughly with soap and water and seek immediate medical attention.

Another vaccine to consider is for tick-borne encephalitis (TBE), particularly if you’ll be hiking, camping, or spending time in forested areas such as Alsace or the Alps. TBE is spread through tick bites, and the vaccination offers added protection if you plan to visit affected regions.

How to Bring Medications to France

You can bring medication for personal use into France, but there are limits on the quantities allowed. Generally, you may carry up to a three-month supply of medication. If you need more than that, you may be asked to provide a doctor’s prescription to justify the quantity.

For narcotic or psychotropic substances, the limit is stricter: you can only bring a one-month supply, and you must carry a prescription or medical certificate.

Many basic medications, such as aspirin or ibuprofen, are widely available over the counter in France. However, some medicines that are available without a prescription in other countries, such as certain cold or flu remedies, may require a prescription in France. If you rely on specific prescription medicines or have preferred over-the-counter products, it’s best to bring them with you.

For peace of mind, pack medications in their original packaging, along with copies of your prescriptions or a doctor’s note, especially for controlled substances. It’s also wise to carry a translated prescription or medical letter in French to help with customs checks or pharmacy visits.

How to Access Medical Care as a Visitor in France

France’s healthcare system is open to visitors, but you’ll generally need to pay for care out of pocket or have a travel health plan to cover the costs.

If you are a citizen of an EU or EEA country, you can access public healthcare in France at a reduced cost with a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). Visitors from outside the EU will need private health coverage or must pay the full cost of treatment.

To find a general practitioner (médecin généraliste) or specialist, you can use the Doctolib website, which allows you to search by specialty and location and often book appointments online.

Alternatively, you can visit an SOS Médecins clinic, a service that provides urgent medical care, including home visits and 24/7 consultations, often without the need for an appointment.

For emergencies, you can call 112 (the Europe-wide emergency number) or go directly to the nearest hospital’s emergency department (les urgences).

Read More: Hospitals in France

France Travel Advisory: Warnings and Alerts

Many governments issue travel advisories for France, providing updated information on safety, security, health risks, and other important factors that may affect your trip.

These advisories help travelers stay informed about current conditions, including civil unrest, natural disasters, crime rates, terrorism threats, and health outbreaks. Before you travel, it’s a good idea to check the latest advisories from your home country’s official sources.

Here are a few key government advisory websites you may want to consult:

• US Department of State: Official travel advisory page for France, including safety recommendations, entry requirements, and emergency contacts.
• Australian Government Smartraveller: Safety and security information specific to France, including regional alerts and travel tips.
• Gov.UK Foreign Travel Advice: Travel advice tailored for UK citizens visiting France, covering security, health, and local laws.
• Canada’s Travel Advisory: Comprehensive travel advisory page for Canadian travelers, with up-to-date information on risks and safety measures.

Checking these advisories regularly before and during your trip can help you prepare and respond appropriately to changing conditions.

Read More: A Guide to Travel Advisories, Warnings, and Alerts

Emergency Contact Information for France

When traveling in a new country like France, having important emergency contact information close at hand is essential.

Make sure to save local emergency numbers, your country’s embassy or consulate contact details, and your travel insurance information in your phone.

It’s also a good idea to keep a paper copy in case your phone is lost or unusable. A little planning can help you stay calm and act quickly in an emergency.

Emergency Assistance Numbers

Emergencies can happen at any time while traveling abroad. Keep these numbers handy in case you need them:

• 112 – Universal European emergency number (for police, fire, ambulance)
• 114 – Emergency number for the hard of hearing (allows communication via text, video call, or fax)
• 15 – Ambulance services for urgent medical assistance
• 17 – Police / Gendarmes
• 18 – Fire brigade (Sapeurs-Pompiers) for life-threatening situations and medical emergencies

Embassy Phone Numbers

In addition to local emergency numbers, it’s important to have your embassy or consulate’s contact details on hand.

They can assist if you lose your passport, face legal issues, or need official support while abroad. It’s better to have the information and not need it than the other way around.

Here are contacts for some key embassies in France:

• Australian Embassy: +33 1 40 59 33 00
• Canadian Embassy: +33 (0)1 44 43 29 02
• UK Embassy: +33 (0)1 44 51 31 00
• US Embassy: +33 (0)1 43 12 22 22
• New Zealand Embassy: +33 (0)1 45 01 43 43

If your country is not listed here, be sure to look up the relevant contact number before you travel and save it in your phone.

10 French Travel Tips

As of 2025, France holds a safety score of 44.4 and ranks 110th out of 148 countries on the Global Safety Index. This ranking considers factors such as crime rates, road safety, health risks, and exposure to natural disasters.

France’s relatively low position reflects concerns about rising petty crime, especially in tourist-heavy areas, as well as occasional social unrest. Despite these challenges, France remains a popular and generally safe destination for travelers.

That said, like anywhere, staying alert and taking simple common-sense precautions is essential to ensure your well-being throughout your trip.

Keep an Eye on Your Belongings

Pickpocketing is probably the most common issue tourists face in France, especially in busy spots like major train stations or crowded attractions such as the Eiffel Tower or the Louvre.

Thieves are quick and often work in teams, so stay alert. The golden rule is never to open your bag in crowded spaces. Keep it zipped and close to your body – ideally worn in front – and avoid flashing cash, phones, or expensive jewelry. It’s a good idea to wear a crossbody bag or money belt in busy areas.

Be Smart on Public Transport

The Paris Metro is super convenient, but it’s also a hotspot for petty crime. Be extra cautious during busy times, as rush hour can be a magnet for pickpockets.

Avoid standing right by the doors, where quick-grab thefts often happen, and don’t pull out your phone or wallet unless absolutely necessary. Trust your instincts – if someone is standing too close or acting suspiciously, give yourself space and stay aware.

Watch Out for Scams

Tourist-heavy areas can attract scammers using common tricks, such as fake petitions, friendship bracelets, or overly friendly strangers offering to ‘help’ with ticket machines. For example, someone might ask you to sign a petition and then demand a donation afterward.

A polite but firm ‘non, merci‘ usually does the trick. If something feels off or too good to be true, it probably is! Staying polite but alert helps you avoid awkward situations.

Read More: 10 Common Travel Scams to Avoid Abroad

Stay Aware During Demonstrations

France is known for the occasional protest or strike – it’s part of the culture! While most demonstrations are peaceful, they can disrupt public transport and sometimes get a bit rowdy.

Police have been known to use tear gas to disperse protesters. If you see a crowd forming, it’s best to steer clear. Keep an eye on local news or ask your hotel staff if anything is scheduled, especially if you’re heading to central areas.

You’ll also notice extra security around schools, religious sites, shopping areas, and famous landmarks due to the anti-terrorist ‘Vigipirate’ system.

Use Official Taxis or Rideshares

Hopping into a random cab might seem convenient, but it can be an expensive mistake. Stick with official taxis – they’ll have a visible taxi sign and a meter – or use apps like Uber, Bolt, or G7.

Avoid anyone approaching you at train stations offering a ride, as they’re often unlicensed and may overcharge. Trust your instincts and stick with official options to avoid surprises.

Stay Alert at Night

France’s cities are vibrant at night, with cafés, wine bars, and beautiful evening strolls, but it’s still smart to stay aware. Stick to well-lit, populated areas, especially if you’re alone.

Keep an eye on your drink at bars, and if you’ve had a little too much wine (it happens!), consider taking a taxi or rideshare home instead of walking.

Know the Local Emergency Numbers

We’ve said it once, and we’ll say it again: keep those emergency numbers handy. Save important numbers to your phone before your trip, and if you only remember one, it should be 112 – the all-purpose emergency number that works from any phone across Europe.

Keep Copies of Important Documents

Lost passports or ID cards can be a pain, but it’s not the end of the world if you’re prepared.

Keep both digital and printed copies of your passport, travel insurance, and key bookings. It’ll make things much easier if you need help from your embassy or the police. Pro tip: email yourself a copy so it’s always within reach.

Be Cautious in Remote Areas

France’s countryside and smaller towns are incredibly charming, but services like taxis, phone signal, or emergency help can be limited. Plan ahead – check public transport times, make sure your phone is charged, and let someone know where you’re going if you’re heading off the beaten path.

Trust Your Gut

It might sound simple, but your best safety tool is often your own intuition. If a place, person, or situation feels off, it’s okay to walk away or change your plans. Travel is all about exploring, but staying safe means knowing when to keep your distance, too.

Embrace the Joie de Vivre, Insured and Assured

Whether you’re sipping wine in Bordeaux, strolling along the Seine, or hiking in the Alps, traveling through France should be all about soaking up the experience, not stressing over what-ifs.

A little preparation goes a long way when it comes to staying safe on the road. From keeping an eye on your belongings to knowing who to call in an emergency, being smart and alert can help you avoid the most common issues.

And if you really want to be prepared for any eventuality, travel insurance is essential. It might not be the most exciting part of planning your trip, but it is one of the most important. With the right policy in place, you can focus on the fun, not the risks.

With a few safety tips and the backup of good coverage, you’ll be all set to enjoy your French adventure without a worry in sight. Bon voyage!

Get a free quote to find the best plan for your trip. Safe travels!

 

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