Everything you need to know about the new rules to enjoy a holiday in France during the Coronavirus pandemic.
I’ve had so many questions about France holiday travel and Coronavirus rule, and indeed what life is like here under Covid-19 for visitors So here is a summary that’s up to date as at spring 2021. I’ll try to keep this regularly updated.
British travellers to France from UK
The Foreign and Commonwealth Office website contains official information about travel. https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/france/coronavirus
In France there are rules and requirements that may differ from the rest of the world.
Bars, restaurants, attractions and sites from major museums to Loire Valley chateaux are closed. But they are due to open (outdoors only for bars etc) from May 19 2021.
Masks must be worn in all enclosed public building, in places where social distancing isn’t possible and most towns outside. You may be turned away if you don’t wear a mask, or you may face a fine. This applies to all over the age of 11.
Masks must be worn at all times on public transport. Some airlines have specified that fabric masks are not acceptable and you must wear surgical masks. Check with the airline you’re flying with to see if that requirement affects you.
Social distancing (one metre) is practised everywhere.
Hand sanitiser/antibacterial gel is freely available for use of the public in the majority of public buildings including shops.
Travelling to France from UK
Eurostar are running infrequent trains to Lille and Paris.
Eurotunnel are running regular trains.
Ferries are regularly running to France but some routes may be limited or subject to cancellation (Brittany Ferries for instance).
Ferry foot passenger services to France have been suspended at the time of publication. (Check direct with the ferry line for up to date information if you require this service).
You will be required to complete an online form giving contact details when you travel to the UK. You may be required by the UK Government to quarantine on your return from France. This is subject to change – please check the Foreign and Commonwealth Office website (above).
When can I go on holiday to France?
According to government updates, foreign visitors will be allowed to visit France from June 9 2021. Visitors will be required to have a “health pass” – yet to be defined but showing evidence of a negative PCR test, or full covid vaccination or possibly proof of recover from Covid.
When will everything open in France?
The schedule for reopening is subject to change but currently:
May 19 2021 – bars and restaurants will reopen for terraced seating only. reopening of all commercial activities, cultural venues, cinemas and theatres. But there will be restrictions on how many people may enter venues. A curfew will be in place from 9pm to 6am.
9 June 2021 – Curfew from 11pm to 6am. Reopening of all bars and terraces indoors but with restrictions on numbers. Overseas tourists allowed to visit France with a “health pass”.
30 June 2021 – Curfew ends. Social distance to be maintained, plus hand gel made available.
For those unable to travel to France right now, there’s much hope that you’ll be able to be welcomed one day soon.
