Smoking in France has long been intertwined with cultural and social norms. Historically, France has been known for its laissez-faire attitude towards smoking, with vintage images of French cafes filled with patrons puffing on cigarettes.
Unfortunately, it was also one of the “accepted” methods of losing weight among French women and men. Women were even advised to reduce smoking during pregnancy, if they couldn’t quit completely.
This cultural acceptance of smoking has been reflected in the country’s policies and regulations, which have been relatively lax compared to some other European nations.
However, attitudes towards smoking in France have been evolving in recent years. Fewer and fewer younger generations are smoking, especially since the total tax on cigarettes is around 82%.
In response to the dangers of tobacco and to preserve the generous healthcare system, there has been a shift towards more stringent regulations and anti-smoking campaigns.
Along with limiting where people can smoke, buyers of cigarettes and e-cigarettes must also provide identification of being over 18 years old before they are allowed to buy.
Indoor spaces, cafés and restaurants
Public smoking bans exist across France have been implemented to protect non-smokers from secondhand smoke and to discourage smoking in public areas.
You cannot smoke indoor spaces, and that includes in cafes, bars and restaurants. It is allowed however on outdoor terraces. Smoking is also not allowed in malls, public transport, or other places where it may disturb other people.
E-cigarettes
French regulations regarding the use of e-cigarettes in public places are currently not as stringent as those for traditional cigarettes.
Then-Prime Minister Elisabeth Borne was famously photographed smoking e-cigarettes during sessions of the Assemblée Nationale in 2023.
However, promotion of e-cigarettes is not allowed, and vaping is allowed in certain places such as in front of schools or in workplaces in France.
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