France Travel 2025: Essential Safety Tips for Tourists - Navigating Security Alerts, Crime Prevention, and ETIAS Requirements

France is currently under a Level 2 travel advisory, meaning listeners should exercise increased caution due to the ongoing threats of terrorism and occasional civil unrest. Terrorist groups are still reportedly plotting possible attacks, and incidents can take place with little or no warning. Potential targets include popular tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets, shopping malls, hotels, restaurants, places of worship, parks, major cultural and sporting events, airports, and other public spaces. French authorities regularly carry out security and crisis management drills, and travelers may encounter increased security forces in high-profile tourist areas and should always follow the instructions of local officials if they come across an ongoing drill according to the U.S. State Department.

Listeners should also be aware that France continues to conduct increased border checks at its land borders with Belgium, Luxembourg, Germany, Switzerland, Italy, and Spain until at least the end of April, and similar measures are in place at the Channel Tunnel and border with the United Kingdom. These reinforced controls are part of ongoing efforts to counter potential threats, so travelers should expect delays and plan accordingly, as reported by Smartraveller.

Crime against foreign visitors is mostly limited to pickpocketing, phone theft, and both vehicle and residential break-ins. These incidents are most common in congested tourist areas such as museums, train stations, airports, subways, and around major landmarks. Rental cars are frequent targets, especially if valuables are left inside. The Canadian government also highlights that residential break-ins are particularly common in large cities and coastal areas and that thieves may use distraction tactics to stop vehicles on highways in order to steal valuables. Tourists are urged to stay vigilant, avoid showing signs of affluence, keep valuables out of sight, and use secure accommodation and parking.

Demonstrations and strikes are relatively frequent, especially in Paris and other major French cities, and can disrupt transportation services ranging from local transit to airports. While most protests are peaceful, some have led to property damage and confrontations with police. Authorities may use water cannons and tear gas if demonstrations turn violent. Travelers should monitor local news for updates, allow extra time for travel, and avoid areas where protests or large gatherings are taking place.

Since 2025, all US citizens planning to visit France must secure an ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) travel authorization before departure. This is an online process and does not guarantee entry, as travelers will still undergo checks upon arrival. It's also recommended to have comprehensive travel insurance for medical emergencies and unexpected expenses, as AXA Assistance notes.

Spring remains peak travel season in France, which means larger crowds, higher prices, and increased tourist activity. Planning ahead, securing accommodation well in advance, and being prepared for heightened security measures will help make travels smoother, as suggested by Tours4fun.

In summary, France remains a popular and generally safe destination if listeners stay vigilant about petty crimes, stay informed about the latest travel advisories, pay close attention to their surroundings especially in crowded spaces, comply with enhanced border and security checks, and prepare for possible disruptions due to protests or strikes. Taking these precautions will help ensure a rewarding experience in France this year.