What Currency Does France Use? A Quick Guide for You

If you’re traveling to France, you’ll need to know what currency to use and how best to manage your money.

In this guide, we’ll explain everything you need to know about euros, currency exchange and how you can typically pay for things in France.

A useful tip: with the iRoamly France travel eSIM, you can easily check your card balance and find nearby currency exchange points online.

What Currency is Used in France?

It’s the euro (€), the currency used by most European Union-countries. The euro replaced the French franc in 2002, and it’s been the official currency of France ever since. Let’s take a closer look at it.

A Bit of Euro History in France

The euro is designated by the EUR, and represented by €. It may have come into effect as currency in France on January 1, 2002, but before that, it somewhat existed as a "book currency" during a three-year changeover period, existing mostly in electronic form or on paper.

It wasn’t until 2002 that physical banknotes and coins entered circulation, although the euro had been in use in many other European countries for some time. It is now recognised in 19 of the 27 member states of the European Union.

The French Franc: A Brief History

Before the euro, there was the French franc (FF). It was first minted as a coin in the early 14th Century, and underwent several changes in its history, including being redenominated in the 1960s as the “Nouveau franc” (NF) with 100 converted franc to a NF.

The euro squeezed it out over time, though some people in France continued to refer to prices in "old francs" for a while following the switch. While the franc is long gone, in spoken French metaphors and phrases, references to money or value are still often made in francs to indicate an old, outdated number.

Exchange Rate and Denominations

If you are visiting France, you will most likely need to exchange your own currency for euros. Please note that rates fluctuate, so always check on a currency conversion site for the most up-to-date rates. As of writing, 1 US dollar will buy you approximately €0.90-0.95, but this amount can vary.

Here are some major global currencies and their exchange rates:

Euro Denominations

Here’s what you can expect in terms of euro notes and coins:

Where Can you Exchange Currency in France?

While in France, you have a variety of options for exchanging foreign currency into euros:

1. Currency Exchange Bureaus

• Benefits: Located in airports or tourist locations; immediate money, generally in native currency.

• Drawbacks: Higher fees and less favorable exchange rates; rates may differ widely.

2. ATMs

• Pros: Usually better exchange rates than at currency exchange agencies; many available throughout France.

• Cons: Potential fees from both your U.S. bank and the French ATM; daily withdrawal limits.

3. Local Bank

• Advantages: Convenient before departure; rate is locked in at time of purchase.

• Disadvantages: Rates are often not the most competitive; advance planning required; may have service fees.

4. Travel Money

• Advantages: Home delivery of foreign currency available; potentially better rates when ordering online.

• Disadvantages: Limited physical locations; additional fees for small amounts or expedited services.

5. S Money

• Advantages: Highly competitive exchange rates; efficient transaction processing.

• Disadvantages: No physical branches for direct exchanges; limited availability depending on the region.

Payment Methods in France

When in the country, you’ll have a few different ways to pay for your expenses:

Bank Card

1. Debit Card

Advantages:

• Direct access to your funds, helping with budgeting.

• Widely accepted across France.

• Generally lower fees compared to credit cards.

Disadvantages:

• No loans allowed; all spending is restricted to the amount in your account.

• Limited fraud protection compared to credit cards.

2. Credit Card

Advantages:

• Ability to buy now and pay later on credit.

• Rewards and additional benefits such as travel insurance.

• Better protection against fraud.

Disadvantages:

• High interest and transaction fees if balance not paid in full early.

• The risk of borrowing money and going into debt by spending more than you have.

3. Prepaid Travel Card

Advantages:

• Assists in budgeting for travel by loading set amount.

• More secure, because it's not connected to a checking account.

• The ability to lock in currency exchange rates to protect against market fluctuations.

Disadvantages:

• Fees for loading funds and possibly per transaction.

• May be less flexible if you have an unexpected need for more money.

• Some acceptance problem as not all places might prefer prepaid cards over traditional bank cards.

Euro Cash

Try to keep a bit of cash on you, especially if you plan to visit smaller shops, markets, or rural areas. Some locations, particularly in the countryside, may not accept cards.

Traveller’s Cheques

Although increasingly less of a thing these days, traveler’s cheques can still be used. Best bets for cashing them would be at a bank or exchange point, though be prepared to pay a small service charge for the hassle. Don’t forget your passport as well for identity checking.

Travel Tips for France

Get a VAT Refund

There’s an opportunity for non-EU residents to get some refund on the VAT (Value Added Tax) they pay on purchases in France. The minimum spend in a single day is €175, and if you have you can apply for a refund. 

This can be a big saving on big ticket or luxury items – just get a retail export form when you are shopping.

Tipping in France

Tipping isn’t obligatory, but it’s generally appreciated as good manners. Many restaurants will include a service charge in the bill (look for “service compris”), but leaving coins or rounding up to around 5-10 percent of the bill is a nice touch.

Using Public Transportation

Navigating France is really straightforward, thanks to a mix of public transport options. If you’ll be in the French capital for a few days and using public transport a lot, consider picking up a Paris Visite pass for big savings on time and money.

FAQ

1. Should I exchange some cash into euros before our trip to France?

Yes, it is a good idea to convert some currency into euros before you leave for France.

2. How does money work in France?

You will find that in most places you can pay for goods and services using cash, credit cards, or debit cards.

3. Can I use US dollars in France?

France mostly uses euros and does not accept US dollars.

4. Should I take cash to France?

It’s best to bring some cash, particularly if you plan to visit small towns or markets where cards may not be accepted.

Summary

To sum up, France uses the euro (€) and you can easily swap your local money out for a few notes and coins at ATMs, banks or exchange offices.  It makes sense to travel with a mix of physical cash and cards, given smaller businesses may prefer the former.

Keep the basics in mind and your money will – mostly – take care of itself when you’re in France!