What Currency Does France Use? Find Out Here

When you’re planning a trip to France, it’s key to know what currency they use. The answer is the euro (€)¹. You’ll also want to learn about the euro france exchange rates and the different denominations available. The euro is the official currency of France and is also used in 18 other European countries¹.

Euro banknotes come in seven different values: €5, €10, €20, €50, €100, €200, and €500¹.

Whether you’re heading to Paris or the countryside, knowing the local currency is important. The euro (EUR) is the second most traded currency globally, after the US dollar (USD)¹. France is part of the Eurozone, which includes 19 countries using the Euro². As you get ready for your trip, learning more about France’s currency and how to exchange it will be helpful.

Key Takeaways

The official currency of France is the euro (€)¹.
Euro banknotes are available in seven denominations¹.
France is one of the 19 countries in the Eurozone using the Euro as their main currency².
The euro (EUR) is the second most traded currency in the world¹.
Understanding the local currency will make your trip to France more enjoyable.
You can exchange your money at banks, ATMs, or currency exchange bureaus².
Avoid exchanging money at airports due to high fees and rates².

What Currency Does France Use Today

When you travel to France, knowing the local currency is key. France uses the euro, which is common in many European countries³. You can find euros in coins and banknotes, from 1 cent to 500 euros³. To get euros, you can exchange money at a bank or use an ATM⁴.

The euro is widely accepted in France. You can use it for food, transport, and even hotel stays⁴. Places like the Louvre accept euros for entry⁴. Remember, the euro’s value changes daily, so check the rate before you exchange⁴.

Here are some prices in euros to help plan your trip:

Entry into the Louvre: 9 euros⁴
Cup of coffee: 2.60 euros⁴
3-course meal for 2: 50 euros⁴

Using euros in France is easy and accepted everywhere, making your trip smooth³. With some planning and knowledge of the local currency, your trip to France will be a success⁴.

Denomination	Euro Coin	Euro Banknote
1c	X
2c	X
5c	X
10c	X
20c	X
50c	X
1 euro	X
2 euro	X
5 euro		X
10 euro		X
20 euro		X
50 euro		X
100 euro		X
200 euro		X
500 euro		X

The History of French Currency

The history of French currency is long and complex. The franc was the official currency from 1795 to 2002⁵. It saw changes, like a revaluation in 1960⁶. In 2002, the franc was replaced by the euro, a big change in France’s money history⁵.

The franc was introduced in 1795 and used for over 200 years⁵. The Bank of France managed it, with 100 subunits called centimes⁵. The French franc’s history goes back to 1360, with the gold franc introduced in 1803⁵.

Some key facts about the French currency include:

The French franc was replaced by the euro on January 1, 2002⁵.
The franc was accepted as legal tender in Belgium, Luxembourg, Andorra, and Monaco before the euro⁵.
The Maastricht Treaty was approved by the French public in 1992, leading to the euro’s implementation⁵.

The euro’s introduction was a major change for France’s currency⁵. Knowing about French currency history helps us understand France’s economy and its role in the European Union⁶.

Using Euros in France: A Practical Guide

Traveling to France means knowing the local money and how to pay. The Euro (€) is the official france legal tender. It breaks down into 100 cents (centimes)⁷. You’ll find many Euro bills and coins, like 500€ and 2€ coins⁷.

To get the best rates, use ATMs or bank exchanges. They usually offer better deals than france foreign exchange offices⁸. Many places accept Visa and Mastercard, with a limit of €50 for contactless payments⁸. But, be careful of extra charges for small purchases⁸.

Here are some tips for using Euros in France:

Carry both cash and cards, as some places only take cash⁷.
Know the tipping rules in France. A 2-3% tip is standard for good service⁷.
Exchange money at banks or use ATMs for the best rates⁸.

By following these tips, you’ll be ready to handle your money in France. You’ll enjoy your trip even more⁹.

Denomination	Description
500€	Largest Euro bill denomination⁷
2€	Largest Euro coin denomination⁷

Understanding Euro Exchange Rates

When you travel to France, knowing the euro exchange rates is key to saving money. The euro is France’s official currency. Its value changes based on the country and the economy¹⁰. You can exchange your money at banks, currency exchange offices, or use an ATM to get cash.

To find the best exchange rate, check the current rate before you exchange your money. Online tools or a financial expert can give you the latest info. Also, watch out for fees like commission or ATM charges¹¹.

Here are some tips for exchanging money in France:

Use reputable currency exchange offices or banks to avoid high fees.
Avoid exchanging money at airports or tourist areas, as the rates may be less favorable.
Consider using a credit or debit card with no foreign transaction fees.

By understanding euro exchange rates and following these tips, you can save money in France. Always check the current exchange rate and know about any fees¹⁰.

Currency	Exchange Rate
US Dollar (USD)	1 USD = approximately 0.94 EUR¹⁰
British Pound (GBP)	1 GBP = approximately 1.16 EUR¹⁰

The Euro’s Impact on French Economy

Understanding the Euro’s role in France’s economy is key. The Euro has boosted trade and investment in France. French trade with Euro countries rose by 33% after the Euro’s introduction¹². This growth has helped the French economy expand, making it easier for businesses to trade with Europe.

The Euro has also drawn more foreign investment to France. This has opened up new opportunities for businesses and individuals. Tourists find it easier to visit France, boosting tourism and the economy. So, the Euro has positively influenced france money and the economy overall.

The Euro has greatly impacted French trade. It has reduced risks and costs for businesses trading with Europe. Trade between Euro-zone countries increased by 15% from 1998 to 2002¹². This has made investing in other European countries easier, fostering growth.

The Euro’s effect on France’s economy is complex. While it has caused inflation and reduced monetary control, its overall impact is positive. It has streamlined trade and investment, creating new opportunities for growth. So, the Euro has significantly influenced currency in france and the economy.

Digital Payment Methods in France

Traveling to France means knowing about digital payment options. The country is moving towards more digital payments, with contactless payments on the rise¹³. In 2022, contactless payments jumped to 8.6 billion, up from 6.8 billion in 2021¹³.

Mobile payments like Apple Pay and Google Pay are common in France¹⁴. PayPal and digital wallets from French banks are also popular. The French mobile payments market is set to grow by 30% yearly until 2027¹³.

To learn more about payment options in France, check out this link. It covers credit and debit cards, digital wallets, and more. Knowing about france euro and french currency can make your trip smoother.

Mobile payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay)
Digital wallets (PayPal, French bank services)
Contactless payments

Digital payments in France are easy and safe. As France moves towards a cashless society, knowing your payment options can enhance your travel experience.

Conclusion: Managing Your Money in France

When you travel to France, knowing about the Euro is key. It helps you enjoy your trip without money worries. You’ll learn about exchanging currency, digital payments, and local tips¹⁵.

Don’t exchange money at airports. They charge high rates because they have no competition¹⁵. Use a travel debit card like Wise for better rates and fewer fees¹⁵. Carry some EUR cash and cards for easy payments in France¹⁵.

Exchange rate changes can affect your money and investments¹⁶. Spread your money across different currencies to reduce risk¹⁶. Getting advice from a financial expert can also help¹⁶.

With the advice from this article, you’re ready to handle your money in France. Enjoy the culture, food, and views without worrying about money¹⁵¹⁶.

FAQ

What currency does France use?

France uses the Euro as its official currency. The Euro is the common currency of the European Union. It is used by 19 of the 27 member states.

When did France adopt the Euro?

France adopted the Euro in 2002. It replaced the French franc at a fixed exchange rate of 1 Euro = 6.55957 French francs.

What are the denominations of the Euro?

The Euro is divided into 100 cents. It comes in various denominations, including coins and banknotes. Euro coins have a common design on one side and a national design on the other. Banknotes have a unique design for each denomination.

What was the currency used in France before the Euro?

Before the Euro, France used the French franc. The French franc was introduced in 1795 and was used for over 200 years.

Can I use credit/debit cards in France?

Many businesses in France accept credit and debit cards. But, some smaller shops and restaurants may only accept cash. It’s wise to have both cash and card payments when traveling in France.

Where can I exchange currency in France?

You can exchange currency at a bank or currency exchange office in France. You can also withdraw cash from an ATM using your debit or credit card. It’s a good idea to have some local currency when you arrive, even if you’re traveling to a rural area.

How do digital payments work in France?

Digital payment methods like mobile payments, contactless payments, and digital wallets are popular in France. Many businesses accept these options. This makes it easier for tourists and locals to make payments.

How has the Euro impacted the French economy?

The Euro has had a big impact on the French economy. It has increased trade and investment. But, it has also led to higher inflation and a loss of monetary sovereignty.