Alsace Grand Est, France Travel Guide
France, a Schengen Area member, sets visa requirements based on nationality and stay duration. Citizens from the US, Canada, Australia, and the UK typically do not need a visa for short stays (up to 90 days) within any 180-day period. Longer stays require a specific long-stay visa. Apply for a Schengen visa, if needed, through the French embassy or consulate in your home country.
Starting mid-2025, visa-exempt non-EU nationals will need an ETIAS authorization. This pre-travel authorization system strengthens security within the Schengen Area. The application is online, and approval is usually quick. An approved ETIAS authorization is valid for three years or until your passport expires.
For Schengen visa applicants, travel insurance is mandatory, covering medical emergencies and repatriation with a minimum coverage of €30,000. It is also strongly recommended for all travelers. France has no specific health-related entry requirements beyond routine vaccination recommendations. Maintain up-to-date standard vaccinations. Consult your healthcare provider before travel for personalized advice.
France does not impose general entry fees for tourists. Upon arrival at your first point of entry into the Schengen Area, you will undergo passport control. Present your passport and any required visa or ETIAS authorization. Immigration officers may ask about the purpose and duration of your visit. The process is usually efficient for travelers with proper documentation.
€40-€80 per day
€25-€40 (hostel dorm or basic hotel)
€15-€25 (groceries, bakeries, street food)
€80-€180 per day
€50-€100 (3-star hotel, B&B)
€30-€60 (casual restaurants, brasseries)
€180+ per day
€100+ (4-5 star hotel, luxury rental)
€70+ (fine dining, gourmet restaurants)
The official currency in France, including Alsace, is the Euro (€). ATMs are widely available in cities, towns, and many larger villages for convenient Euro withdrawals. Banks and exchange offices also convert currency, but ATMs generally provide more favorable exchange rates. Inform your bank of your travel plans to prevent your cards from being flagged. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most establishments, but carrying a small sum of money for smaller purchases or in rural areas is a good practice.
Tipping practices in France differ from some other countries. A service charge (`service compris`) is typically included in restaurant and cafe bills by law. This means tipping is not mandatory. However, it is customary to leave a small additional tip (a few Euros or rounding up the bill) for excellent service. This gestures appreciation for good service. For example, leaving €1-€2 for a coffee or €5-€10 for a dinner bill with good service is a common practice. For taxi drivers, rounding up the fare is normal.
Hostel bed: €25-€40; Mid-range hotel: €80-€150; Luxury hotel: €150+.
Bakery item: €3-€7; Casual lunch: €12-€25; Mid-range dinner: €18-€35; Fine dining: €60-€150+.
Single public transport: €1.80-€2.00; Regional train: €10-€20; Car rental: €40-€80/day.
Museum entry: €5-€15; Wine tasting: €5-€20; Boat tour: €14-€18.
IVisa & VisaHQ for visa services; AirHelp for flight compensation.
Prioritize your health and safety for a worry-free experience. This section covers wellness suggestions, security tips, and emergency contact information for Alsace.
France has a high-quality healthcare system. Medical care is readily available in cities and towns.
Travelers could experience common issues like colds or minor stomach upsets. Prepare for seasonal factors.
Keep these numbers handy for any emergencies during your stay. Save them in your phone before you travel.
Prepare for various activities and climates in Alsace. Choose items based on your planned travel time.
Alsace experiences distinct seasons, so your clothing choices align with your travel time. Layering often works best, allowing flexibility for temperature changes.
Spring and Autumn (April-May, September-October) call for layering. In the morning and evening can be cool, with pleasant midday temperatures. Pack a Waterproof and windproof jacket, lightweight sweaters or fleece, and Long-sleeved shirts. A Travel scarf adds warmth. For summer (June-August), choose light, airy fabrics like cotton or linen. Pack shorts, skirts, t-shirts, and airy dresses. Evenings may cool down, so a light jacket or thin sweater helps. Swimwear is appropriate if your accommodation has a pool.
Alsace follows a generally casual chic dress code. No strict modesty rules for general tourism. When visiting religious sites, dressing modestly (shoulders and knees must be covered) shows respect. Smart casual attire works for fine dining.
Modest dress for houses of worship/cathedrals.
No strict formal wear for most restaurants.
For hiking in the Vosges, pack Durable hiking pants, moisture-wicking tops, and Sturdy hiking boots. Outerwear depends on the season. For formal events or fine dining, consider smart casual or semi-formal attire.
Hiking gear for Vosges trails.
Dressier shoes for evenings.
Comfortable footwear is highly useful, as you will likely spend significant time walking. Alsace's towns feature many cobblestone streets, which can be hard on your feet.
Comfortable walking shoes or Sneakers are a must.
Waterproof hiking boots for Vosges trails.
| Document Type | Description | Preparation |
|---|---|---|
| Passport & Visa | Original passport and any required visa. | Photocopies and digital copies (phone, cloud) in separate locations. |
| Travel Insurance | Policy details, emergency contacts, coverage summary. | Bring a copy of your policy. |
| Driving Permit (IDP) | Required for non-EU citizens driving throughout France. | Obtain in your home country; carry with national driver's license. |
Prepare for common health needs and personal requirements during your trip.
Band-aids, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers (Acetaminophen), anti-diarrhea medication, antihistamines.
Transport in original packaging with a copy of the prescription or doctor's note.
Remedies for colds, flu, antacids, or rehydration salts.
Protect yourself from the elements, especially in warmer months.
Insect repellent is useful in summer, especially near water. High-SPF sunscreen, Sunglasses, and a Wide-brimmed hat are helpful.
Tap water is safe; a refillable bottle is recommended for sustainability. Pack travel-sized personal hygiene essentials, as specific brands might be hard to find locally.
Blister treatment like Compeed blister pads are useful for walking on cobblestone streets.
A Daypack for water and snacks, appropriate footwear, and layered clothing. Trekking poles are optional.
A Helmet, padded shorts, and Cycling gloves for comfort on longer rides.
A small notepad or app to record wine notes.
Bicycles are easily rented in most municipalities along the Wine Route, which saves the hassle of transporting your own. Ski/snowboard kit is readily available for rent at ski resorts in the Vosges during winter. Car seats for children are available for rent with car rentals, though some parents prefer to bring their own for familiarity.
Do not forget these general items for practicality and security.
A Travel neck pillow, Eye mask, and Earplugs for long journeys.
A money belt or a small Padlock for hostel lockers.
A reusable water bottle (reduces plastic waste, saves cash on Bottled water), a Reusable shopping bag, and Reusable utensils for picnics.
