From vibrant cities to sun-soaked beaches, alpine peaks and picturesque countryside, France has something for every kind of trip. Whether you’re exploring the cafés of Paris, relaxing along the Côte d’Azur or discovering charming villages in the Dordogne, having the right travel insurance helps you unwind and enjoy every moment.
Our travel insurance covers the important stuff, from emergency medical care to cancellations and lost personal items, so you can focus on the fun parts. With bronze, silver and gold levels to choose from, it’s easy to pick the cover that fits your plans. All that’s left to do? Travel with confidence, knowing we’ve got your back.
Do I need travel insurance for France?
Travel insurance isn’t a legal requirement for UK travellers visiting France, but it’s a smart way to keep your trip running smoothly. Unexpected costs can pop up when you least expect them, and having cover in place means they don’t have to derail your plans.
When travelling from the UK, your GHIC Card gives you access to state healthcare in France, which can help with some medical costs. But it doesn’t cover everything. Things like a lost passport, gadget cover, cancellations or lost belongings aren’t included. That’s where travel insurance steps in, filling the gaps so you can relax and enjoy your time away. Always check your policy documents for the full list of what's covered and what's not.
What is required to travel to France from the UK?
To travel to France from the UK you must have a valid passport. UK citizens can visit France for up to 90 days in any 180-day period without a visa for tourism or short stays.
Entry rules can change from time to time, so it’s always worth checking the latest guidance before you set off. For the most up-to-date information on passports, visas and entry requirements, head to the official France travel advice page on the UK Government website so you can travel with confidence and no last-minute surprises.
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Compare travel insurance cover levels
Choose from three different levels of cover, each with its own cover limits. Ranging from a simpler 'Bronze' plan to a higher level 'Gold' plan, you can tailor your policy to suit your needs. Browse the key benefits below, or see the full breakdown in our cover-level table and Policy Documents.
Bronze
| £15,000,000 | Emergency medical and repatriation expenses |
| £1,000 | Cancellation & Cutting your trip short |
| £2,000 | Personal belongings |
| £500 | Personal money |
| £500 | Gadget Cover |
Silver
| £20,000,000 | Emergency medical and repatriation expenses |
| £2,500 | Cancellation & Cutting your trip short |
| £3,000 | Personal belongings |
| £750 | Personal money |
| £500 | Gadget Cover |
Gold
| Unlimited | Emergency medical and repatriation expenses |
| £5,000* | Cancellation & Cutting your trip short |
| £5,000 | Personal belongings |
| £1,000 | Personal money |
| £750 | Gadget Cover |
*Or as specified on your schedule
Does travel insurance to France include activities?
France offers a fantastic range of activities, from skiing in the Alps to surfing along the Atlantic coast. With so much to see and do, it’s important to make sure your travel insurance covers the adventures you’ve got planned. Many popular activities are covered as standard, while others may require an add-on or approval from the underwriter.
Winter Sports
Planning a ski trip to the French Alps or heading to the Pyrenees for some time in the snow? If winter sports are on your itinerary, you will need our Winter Sports add-on which is designed to give you extra cover on the slopes.
Water Sports
Exploring the coves of the French Riviera or kayaking along the Ardèche? Some water sports are covered as standard under our policies. If you're taking it up a notch and trying something like white water rafting, then you will need the Extended Risk add-on.
Extended Risk add-on
Turning it up a notch? If you’re planning to try any higher-risk sports or activities, they may fall under our Extended Risk add-on. The extended risk add-on provides cover for higher-risk activities and can be selected at the 'add-on stage' before payment.
Use our handy activity checker to see whether your chosen activity or sport is covered as standard, or if you’ll need to add extra cover.
Reasons to visit France
Incredible food - Often referred to as the culinary capital of the world, France takes its food seriously. Eating well isn’t just a pastime here, it’s a way of life.
Shopping - From grand department stores to quirky pop-up boutiques, few places do shopping quite like the French. It’s not just about what you buy, it’s the whole experience.
Diverse landscapes - Where else can you find Mediterranean beaches, alpine ski resorts, tranquil woodlands and sophisticated cities?
Iconic landmarks - From the Eiffel Tower and Arc de Triomphe in Paris to Mont Saint-Michel and the Palace of Versailles, France is packed with world-famous sights.
History and culture - France has centuries of art, architecture and heritage to explore, from medieval villages to grand châteaux and world-class museums like the Louvre.
Over 40 years experience in travel services.
Voted Best Insurance Provider 16 years running – since 2009.
Tailored policies to suit your personal requirements.
£13.8 million paid in 2024, providing reliable support when it matters most.
Let us answer your questions
Is travel insurance required to visit France?
Travel insurance isn’t compulsory for visiting France, but it’s a sensible addition to your travel plans. Without it, you could end up paying out of pocket if something unexpected happens during your trip. Having cover for medical expenses, cancellations and lost or delayed baggage means you’re protected against common travel problems, giving you extra peace of mind while you’re away.
Can I use my EHIC/GHIC card in France?
Yes – your EHIC or GHIC gives you access to healthcare in France on the same basis as a French citizen, either free or at a reduced cost. Just remember to carry your card along with photo ID.
Why choose Holiday Extras travel insurance for your trip to France?
With 40 years experience selling holiday insurance and over half a million policies sold in a single year*, it's safe to say we know travel insurance inside out. That’s why we’ve won Globe's Best Insurance Provider 16 years running.
Our friendly team of insurance experts is here to guide you through booking and answer any questions along the way. Whilst you’re away, you’ll have access to 24/7 medical assistance, 365 days a year.
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*This figure reflects policies sold between 1st January and 31st December 2023.
Holiday Extras Travel Insurance is sold and administered by Holiday Extras Cover Limited, registered office address: Ashford Road, Newingreen, Hythe, Kent CT21 4JF.
Holiday Extras Cover Limited is an insurance intermediary authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority, registration number 828848. You can check this on the Financial Services Register by visiting: http://register.fca.org.uk
Holiday Extras™ is a Trading Name of Holiday Extras Cover Limited. The insurance is underwritten by Great Lakes Insurance UK Limited. Great Lakes Insurance UK Limited is a company incorporated in England and Wales with company number 13436330 and whose registered office address is 1 Fen Court, London, United Kingdom, EC3M 5BN.
Great Lakes Insurance UK Limited is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority. Firm Reference Number 955859. You can check this on the Financial Services Register by visiting: http://register.fca.org.uk
Our flight delay cover is underwritten by Astrenska Insurance Limited and serviced by Collinson Insurance Services Limited.