For the past few years, France has maintained its position as the world’s number-one tourist destination for several reasons, including its sheer diversity and ease of access from both short and long-haul markets.
There is something for every type of visitor, from skiing to beach holidays and countryside retreats to cultural city breaks. France is also home to some of the world’s most iconic monuments, and of course, French cuisine and wine has a reputation all of its own.
Can British travellers go to France?
As of December 18, France is only letting in foreign visitors who have an ‘essential reason’ for travel, regardless of vaccination status. Holidays are not considered one of these reasons.
French nationals and residents and those with an ‘essential reason’ must show proof of a negative PCR or antigen test taken within 24 hours of arriving. They must also provide contact details, including the address where they will be staying, in an online form, which can be found here. They must also prove their essential reason in another form, and complete a ‘sworn statement’ that they do not have any symptoms of Covid-19 and have not been a close contact of anyone else testing positive in the past two weeks. When arriving into France, visitors must quarantine for 48 hours and take another PCR or antigen test.
For more detailed information about travelling between the UK and France, click here.
As of January 9, fully vaccinated travellers returning to the UK must take a Covid-19 test, which can be a lateral flow test, on or before day two, and fill out a passenger locator form.
Travellers returning to the UK who aren’t fully vaccinated must fill out a passenger locator form and take a Covid-19 test before arriving, as well as PCR tests on day two and day eight, and quarantine for 10 days.
How can British travellers reach France?
The capacity and frequency of flights, trains and ferries to France was severely impacted. However, there are still flights operating to more than 35 destinations in France from 15 airports across the UK. Both Eurostar, Eurotunnel and ferry operators are still ensuring the UK has very good connectivity to France.
What safety measures are in place across France?
Wearing a mask is compulsory in enclosed public places across the country for anyone aged 11 and over. This rule may be extended to any other places deemed relevant by local authorities, depending on the area’s health situation. Detailed information is available from the individual prefectures here. The map and updated information on the prevalence of Covid-19 in France are available on the French government website here.
Travellers should ensure that the greatest possible distance is maintained between passengers or groups of passengers not travelling together. More information is available on the SNCF and RATP websites.
France requires everyone over the age of 12 to show a health pass to access cultural and leisure venues where there are more than 50 people, including cinemas, theatres, amusement parks, concerts and festivals.
PICTURES: Shutterstock/Kojin, Thomas Dutour, Neirfy,
Last updated January 7, 2022