Travel safety

Is France safe to visit?

France travel photo — France · photo from the Waymark library

The whole country, including CorsicaSafeChecked 22 October 2026 · FCDO updated 11 August 2026

France is a safe country for UK travellers. The FCDO advises against travel to nowhere in France. Most problems are petty theft in busy places, strikes that disrupt transport, and the risks that come with mountains and summer heat.

Safe
Avoid
Essential only
Never travel

RatingSafe

Emergency number112

Official advice updated11 August 2026

Areas covered5 on this page

France gets more tourists than any other country in the world, and violent crime against them is rare. As in much of Europe, the FCDO says terrorists are likely to try to carry out attacks, so stay alert in crowded places and follow the advice of the local authorities.

France area by area

ParisSafe
No warning. Pickpockets and scams around the Eiffel Tower, Montmartre, the Louvre and on the Métro and RER B.
The Riviera and ProvenceSafe
No warning. Thefts from cars and beach bags, and wildfires inland in summer.
The Alps and PyreneesSafe
No warning. Avalanches, sudden weather changes and altitude are the main risks.
Calais and the Channel portsSafe
No warning. Keep doors locked: people may try to get into vehicles heading for the UK.
CorsicaSafe
No warning. Narrow mountain roads and summer wildfires.

Pickpockets and street scams

In Paris, watch out for the 'gold ring' trick, petition clipboards and friendship bracelets near the Sacré-Cœur: they are all distractions. Keep bags zipped and in front of you on the Métro, especially on the line to Charles de Gaulle airport.

Strikes and protests

Strikes are common in France and can stop trains, flights and the Métro at short notice. Demonstrations sometimes turn violent. Check the news before you travel, and move away from any protest.

Mountains and wildfires

In the Alps and Pyrenees, check the avalanche forecast, stay on marked pistes unless you have a guide, and make sure your insurance covers winter sports. In summer, wildfires can close roads and campsites in the south; follow local alerts.

Before you go

Driving to the ports? The FCDO says to keep doors locked and keep moving where it's safe to do so.
Drinks in French bars are often stronger than in the UK, and the FCDO warns about drink spiking. Buy your own and keep them in sight.
Emergency number: 112.

Official advice: FCDO travel advice for France

Stay and do

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Questions people ask

Is Paris safe for tourists?

Yes for your safety, but watch your belongings. Violent crime is rare, while pickpocketing is common at the big sights and on the Métro.

Will strikes affect my trip to France?

They might. Strikes usually come with a few days' notice, so check the news and your airline or Eurostar before you go.

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Waymark summarises official UK government (FCDO) travel advice and other public sources to help you plan. It is not a substitute for that advice, which can change at short notice. Always read the latest FCDO page for your destination and check your insurance before you book. Content last checked 22 October 2026.