Service is included in the bill by law, so tipping isn’t required. Rounding up or leaving a few euros for excellent service is appreciated but not expected.

Menus are generally not meant to be customized, and splitting the bill isn’t automatic unless the server offers it. We’re happy to brief you on the small customs that make dining feel effortless.

Let the vendor select and bag your produce rather than handling it yourself, unless it’s clearly a self-service stall. It’s a small courtesy that goes a long way.

Yes, and you’re welcome to. Unless you ask for the check, no one will rush you, dining is meant to be unhurried.

Pharmacies, marked with a green cross, stock what supermarkets don’t. Staff are knowledgeable and many speak English.

Yes, the taxe de séjour is a small per-person, per-night city tax added at checkout and not included in your quoted rate. It varies by city and hotel category, Paris and other major cities on the higher end. We’ll flag the approximate amount for your specific stops.

Yes, though American Express is accepted less often than Visa or Mastercard. We recommend carrying a widely accepted card as your primary method of payment.

Very. The amount charged is always exactly what appears on your bill, and mobile card terminals are standard at most restaurants.

France is generally very safe for travelers. The usual precautions apply in busy tourist areas and on public transport, where pickpocketing is the primary concern, not violent crime.

Yes, tap water throughout France, including Paris, is safe to drink.

Very. The metro is extensive and affordable, and Uber, along with other ride-hailing apps, operates throughout the city.

Bastille Day on July 14th and All Saints’ Day on November 1st can affect opening hours and transport, and we’ll flag any dates that overlap with your trip.

Modest, respectful dress is appreciated, covered shoulders and knees in particular, and photography rules vary by site, so we’ll note anything specific for the places on your itinerary.