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France France Currency Guide

The currency of France and how to prepare for payments — all on one page.

Currency

Euro

EUR · €

Checking rates

Check with your bank app or card issuer before you go

The rate and fees you actually pay differ by bank and card issuer.

Payment Tips to Remember

Always pay in the local currency

If a terminal asks whether to charge in your home currency, always choose the local currency. Choosing your home currency triggers DCC (dynamic currency conversion), which adds a hidden markup.

Set up a travel card before you fly

Prepaid multi-currency travel cards let you convert money in the app beforehand and pay like a debit card locally. Fees are usually lower than cash exchange counters, and you can freeze the card instantly from the app if lost.

Airport exchange counters: last resort

Airport counters are convenient but tend to offer some of the worst rates. If you need cash, exchange via your bank's app before departure or consider withdrawing from a local ATM.

Check ATM fees on screen

Local ATMs may add their own operator fee. Check the fee shown on the confirmation screen before proceeding. If the ATM offers conversion to your home currency (DCC), choosing the local currency is usually better.

Keep some small cash

Every country has places that don't take cards — markets, tips, small transport. Carrying a small amount of cash in separate places keeps you covered.

Cards for Abroad

Explore the Wise multi-currency card

One account holding 40+ currencies, converting and paying at mid-market based rates. Handy for multi-country trips — no need to exchange for each currency separately.

Learn more

Local data

Get an eSIM for France before you go

Activate mobile data with a QR code instead of swapping SIM cards. Buy it before departure and switch it on the moment you land.

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Check prices and availability on the booking sites.

City Guides in France

Paris

Paris is France's capital, a world-renowned city set along the Seine. It is the country's largest city and offers a wealth of attractions.

Lyon

Lyon is France's third-largest city after Paris and Marseille. As the home of Interpol's headquarters, it also has the feel of an international city.

Strasbourg

Strasbourg lies on the Rhine in northeastern France and serves as the center of the Alsace region. Often nicknamed the "capital of Europe," it has an international standing that gives it a distinctive atmosphere.

Marseille

Marseille is a major port city on France's Mediterranean coast, one of the largest in the country. Here you can enjoy a lively harbor scene along with the charm of the Mediterranean.

Roubaix

Roubaix is a city in France's Nord region, home to a cathedral, museums, and other attractions. It's a pleasant place to stroll along the river and take in the sights at a relaxed pace.