Cash, credit cards and checks in France

Arriving in a new country, you will need to pay for stuff. I will go through whether you should come to France with lots of cash, credit cards, or some other form of money transfer.

Credit Cards

Without question, credit cards are the preferred way to conduct transactions in shops, restaurants, museums, etc. all across France.

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted across France, with Visa and Mastercard the most commonly used. Some places will accept American Express, although they are a bit more limited.

While rare, foreign credit cards sometimes do not work in places like the Paris metro.

While credit cards offer convenience and ease of use, you should inform your bank of your travel plans to avoid any unexpected card blocks due to suspicious activity.

Additionally, some smaller establishments may have minimum purchase requirements for card transactions, so keep some cash on hand.

Cash

Despite the rise of digital payments, cash remains a useful means of transaction in France. The French have a deep-rooted attachment to physical currency, considering it a symbol of financial independence and privacy.

It’s common to see cash being used for everyday purchases, especially in outdoor markets, bakeries, and smaller establishments.

Carrying cash can be useful in the countryside or small villages where credit card acceptance may be limited. However, it’s advisable to carry small denominations as many businesses do not accept euro bills larger than €50 for risk of counterfeit.

Checks

Checks were once a common form of payment in France, but have have experienced a significant decline in usage in recent years. Many businesses, particularly larger retailers and restaurants, no longer accept them.

However, cheques are still used in certain contexts, such as rent payments, utility bills, and government transactions. You will also see older people in France using their checkbooks to pay for items like groceries.

Digital Wallets

While less common than cash and cards, digital wallets like Apple Pay and Google Pay are gaining traction in France. Some retailers and public transportation systems accept contactless payments, offering a convenient alternative to traditional payment methods.

On the other hand, services like Venmo and Zelle are not available in France.

Currency Exchanges

Currency exchange agencies are rare in France these days, so plan ahead if you are planning to use them. They are usually available at airports or tourist hubs, even though they often charge higher fees.

Direct credit card withdrawals usually have lower foreign exchange fees, so I don’t recommend you use currency exchanges.

Paying at the counter

When using credit cards, especially in restaurants and cafés, it’s customary for the server to bring a wireless card machine to your table for payment. This ensures that your card never leaves your sight.

However, in more informal restaurants and bars, it is the norm in France to go up to the counter and pay directly there, rather than waiting. This is actually the norm, and you may be waiting a long time if you wait for the server!

Security Measures

Exercise caution when handling cash and cards, particularly in crowded tourist areas where pickpocketing may occur. Keep your valuables secure and consider using a money belt or hidden pouch for added safety.