Things I Wish I Knew Before My Trip to France

If you’re planning a trip to France, first—lucky you! France is a country that stirs the soul with its beauty, food, art, and history. But like any destination, it comes with a few surprises that aren’t always covered in the guidebooks.

After my own travels across this stunning country, I’ve put together a list of honest, helpful tips—things I really wish I had known ahead of time. If this is your first (or even third) time visiting France, I hope you find something here that makes your trip a little easier, a little smoother, and even more enjoyable.

1. Bathrooms Are Few and Far Between

Public restrooms aren’t always easy to find, and some of the “pay toilettes” can be, well, not the cleanest. My rule? Never pass up a bathroom opportunity—go when you can! There are apps like “Flush” or “Toilet Finder” that can help you locate restrooms nearby.

2. Cash is Still Useful (Even in a Card-Friendly Country)

France is very credit-card friendly, and servers will bring the card reader to your table (they won’t walk off with your card like in the U.S.). That said, I still recommend having around €300 in cash for smaller purchases, tips, or places that might not accept cards—especially in small towns or markets.

3. Lunch is the Best Meal Deal in Town

Dining out doesn’t have to be expensive. Many restaurants offer a “formule” lunch—a fixed-price menu that includes two or three courses. It’s usually much more affordable than dinner, and often just as delicious.

Local boulangeries (bakeries) are also great for picking up ready-made meals on the go—think sandwiches, salads, quiche, and pastries for just a few euros.

4. Make Reservations Before You Travel

France loves reservations—especially at popular restaurants, museums, or landmarks. If there’s anything you’d be disappointed to miss, book ahead. Many places don’t allow walk-ins, and same-day tickets can sell out.

This goes for TGV high-speed trains and excursions, too—ticket prices usually go up the longer you wait.

5. France Doesn’t Run 24/7

It’s a slower pace of life here, and that’s part of the charm… but it takes some adjusting!

• Many stores close on Sundays.

• Mondays can feel like a ghost town in some areas.

• Markets often operate just once or twice a week.

• August is vacation month, and many businesses shut down entirely.

• Even outside of Paris, shops may close midday for lunch.

It’s all very normal in France—but something to plan around.

6. French Hotels Are Not Like American Hotels

Hotel rooms tend to be smaller, and elevators (if there is one!) are usually tiny. Air conditioning isn’t guaranteed, and that “balcony” may actually be just a big window with a railing.

Also, the “first floor” (1er étage) is one flight up—not street level. Just a small detail that’s easy to miss.

7. A Few French Words Go a Long Way

You don’t need to speak French fluently, but a few polite basics make a huge difference:

• Bonjour (hello)

• Au revoir (goodbye)

• S’il vous plaît (please)

• Merci (thank you)

French people appreciate the effort, and starting with a warm “bonjour” can change the entire tone of an interaction. When in doubt, Google Translate and Google Lens can help you read menus, signs, and even product labels.

8. Don’t Forget These Packing Essentials

A few extra items in your suitcase can make your trip more comfortable:

•  A European electrical adapter

• A light jacket – it cools down at night

• A compact umbrella – it does rain!

• A handheld fan or cooling towel – air conditioning isn’t always a given

• A refillable water bottle

• Comfortable walking shoes – because you’ll do a lot of it

• A small power bank for your phone

9. Summer Heat Can Be a Surprise

While not common, heat waves do happen. France isn’t built for extreme summer heat—there’s often no central A/C, limited shade, and not much ice in drinks. If you need to cool off, head to a church, museum, or even the Catacombs of Paris, where the temperature drops dramatically underground.

Final Thoughts

Traveling through France is full of “pinch me” moments—standing before the Eiffel Tower at dusk, enjoying a quiet coffee on a cobblestone street, wandering through ancient villages. And while no trip is perfect, a little preparation can go a long way.

I hope these tips help you feel more ready, more relaxed, and more excited for the adventure ahead. And if you’re ever unsure about where to go or how to plan it—just know, I’m always here to help.

À bientôt!

(That’s “See you soon” in French )

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