France
The Euro is now the official currency of 12 EU member states (including France). The first Euro coins and notes were introduced in January 2002; the French Franc was still in circulation until 17 February 2002, when it was completely replaced by the Euro. Euro (€) = 100 cents. Notes are in denominations of €500, 200, 100, 50, 20, 10 and 5. Coins are in denominations of €2 and 1, and 50, 20, 10, 5, 2 and 1 cents.
The import and export of local and foreign currency is unrestricted. Amounts over €7600 must be declared.
Mon-Sat 0900-1200 and 1400-1700. Some banks close Monday and some are open Saturday. Banks close early (1200) on the day before a bank holiday; in rare cases, they may also close for all or part of the day after.
Some first-class hotels are authorized to exchange foreign currency. Shops and hotels are prohibited from accepting foreign currency by law. Travelers should check with their banks for details and current rates.
American Express, Diners Club, MasterCard, Visa and Eurocard are widely accepted. Check with your credit or debit card company for details of merchant acceptability and other services which may be available.
Traveller's cheques are accepted nearly everywhere.
