Local Information

About Paris, France

One of the world’s most recognizable cities, Paris is the quintessential tourist destination with plenty to see and do. Everywhere you turn there is a something special to delight and inspire, including iconic architecture, glorious food, stylish shopping, artistic treasures, picturesque parks and much much more.

Helpful links

The Paris Convention and Visitors Bureau has lots of information for travelers including:

Visas

People requiring a visa to visit France should apply to the French consulate in their country of origin. Details of consular addresses can be found on the website of the French Ministry for Foreign Affairs.

Top tips

  • Paris is in the GMT+1 time zone
  • Tap water is drinkable throughout the city
  • The currency in Paris is the Euro (€)
  • Banks are usually open from Monday to Friday, automated teller machines (ATMs) function 24/7.
  • Most taxis accept payment by credit card.
  • The electricity network has adopted standard European voltage of 230V, with a frequency of 50Hz.
  • Wi-Fi is available in the majority of Parisian bars and restaurants, as well as at more than 260 municipal sites (public gardens, museums, etc.) via 400 Wi-Fi access points and hotspots.
  • Shops are open from Monday to Saturday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. (on average), they are open on Sunday in five tourist areas of Paris.
  • In the event of a strike, public transport is guaranteed to maintain a minimum service capability during busy times.

Tourist tax

The Paris City Council collects a visitor tax that is paid when paying for your accommodation. The tax varies from €1 to €5 per person and per day.

Useful Telephone Numbers

  • France area code: +33
  • Paris area code: 01
  • Ambulance: 15
  • Police: 17

Top Attractions