destination information

france
general information
currency
Euros
time difference
1 hour ahead of GMT
bank opening times

Open weekdays
0900-1200 and 1400-1600

Regionally some closed Monday

public holidays 2008
1 Jan New Year's Day.
24 Mar Easter Monday.
1 May Labour Day.
1 May Ascension.
8 May 1945 Victory Day.
12 May Whit Monday.
14 Jul Bastille Day.
15 Aug Assumption.
1 Nov All Saints' Day.
11 Nov Remembrance Day.
25 Dec Christmas Day.
driving rules
speed limits
Built-up-areas: 31mph/50kmh outside towns: 56mph/90kmh priority roads and toll-free motorways: 68mph/110kmh toll motorways: 81mph/130kmh
drink and driving
Blood alcohol limit is 50mg - barely 1 unit of alcohol.
general driving

Traffic on major roads has priority. Where two major roads cross, traffic coming from the right has priority as warned by the
sign 'danger priorité à droite'. Where there is no sign, give way to the right.

Traffic on a roundabout has priority and signs saying 'cedez le passage' or 'vous n'avez pas la prioritè'. In some areas the old rule of traffic entering roundabouts having priority applies so be cautious where there are no signs.

If a driver flashes his headlights in France, he is generally indicating that he has priority and you should give way. This can be
confusing as in the UK it usually indicates that a car is letting you out.

Stopping for someone waiting at a zebra crossing is a fineable offence for holding up traffic. The crossings indicate where is
best to cross.

Do not overtake a tram when it is stationary with passengers alighting or boarding.

Traffic lights don't show amber after red. Flashing amber means continue with caution.

At night, park on the right.

It is compulsory for front and rear seat occupants to wear seat belts if fitted.

Carrying hazard warning lights or a warning triangle is compulsory. It is recommended that visitors equip their vehicle with replacement bulbs.

tourist office
For the official French Tourism website click here
travel tips

France, the biggest country in western Europe, has a wealth of contrasts. To the west, Brittany's landscape resembles Cornwall while the Loire Valley is home to ancient Châteaux and the Atlantic coast has miles of spectacular beaches.

The Champagne region to the north east is flatter than the gentle wine-growing slopes of Burgundy to the south. The snowy and icy
conditions in the Alps and Pyrenees demand careful driving between November and March.