French Travel Tools

Looking to travel around France? Knowing some basics and having a few apps can go a long way in helping you plan your trip!

Transportation across France

The French Train Company is called SNCF. Visit their website in English here.  We suggest purchasing tickets in advance, as trains can fill up. The SNCF Connect app is also useful.

If you are planning on travelling by French trains before or after employment, consider buying a reduction card. 

Transportation in Paris

Paris’ public transport network is operated by RATP and includes the metro, buses, trams and RER suburban trains. For route planning and live updates, the Bonjour RATP app is very useful while getting around the city.

Travel in and around Paris is now largely digital. Metro, RER and bus tickets for the Île-de-France region can be purchased directly from your smartphone using the SNCF Connect app or the Île-de-France Mobilités app, then validated straight from your smartphone using NFC.

For a more scenic way to explore the city, the Vélib’ bike-sharing service is also a great option.

Travel safety : Be careful when using your phone in crowded areas or on public transport in Paris, as phone theft can happen quickly!

Weather in France

France is often chillier than one would expect. There are 5 different climate zones in France, and our camps are spread across them! Bring a polar fleece or sweatshirt if you are working in spring or fall. Bring at least one sweater if you are working in the summer.

To look up the local weather in France, visit Météo France, where you can conduct a search by zip code.

Read our other travel-themed blog articles >

Basic information

• French Country Code (Telephone): (+33)

• French Time Zone: Central European Time

• Calender of Bank Holidays in France

• Learn some French online for free