Health & safety: France
Tap water
Safe
Food safety
Safe
Can you drink the tap water in France?
Tap water (l'eau du robinet) safe and free at restaurants if you ask. Mineral water culture means many prefer bottled.
Food safety in France
Excellent food safety. Steak tartare + rare meats common (and safe at most restaurants). Raw oysters from Brittany year-round.
Vaccinations
Required for entry
None required for entry.
Recommended by CDC/WHO
- Routine schedule current
Always check the CDC traveler's health page 4-6 weeks before departure for current recommendations.
Altitude warnings
Chamonix area (1,000-3,800m). Pyrenees moderate. Take it easy first day at altitude.
Mosquito-borne diseases
Mediterranean coast: Tiger mosquito with sporadic dengue/Zika. Use repellent Jun-Sep.
Heat risk
South + Paris Jul-Aug heatwaves 35-40°C+. Public buildings often lack A/C.
Emergency medical infrastructure
World-class. EU citizens free with EHIC. Tourists pay but reasonable.