Voltage: 230V
Frequency: 50Hz
Plug Types: Type C (2 round pins) and Type E (2 round pins with hole for earth pin)
Travelers from UK, US, Canada, Australia need plug adapters. US devices (110V) may also require voltage converters, though most modern electronics (phones, laptops, cameras) have built-in converters - check device specifications.
Currency: Euro (€)
ATMs: Widely available in cities and towns. Most accept international cards (Visa, Mastercard). Withdrawal fees vary by bank.
Credit Cards: Accepted in most hotels, restaurants, shops. Smaller establishments and markets may prefer cash. Chip-and-PIN is standard.
Tipping: Service charge included in bills ("service compris"). Additional tip for exceptional service is 5-10% or round up. Not obligatory.
Official Language: French
Regional Language: Alsatian German dialect still spoken by older generations
English: Widely spoken in tourist areas, hotels, and major attractions. Less common in small villages and with older residents. Learning basic French phrases appreciated.
Emergency Services: 112 (Europe-wide)
Police: 17
Fire/Ambulance: 18
Medical Emergencies: 15 (SAMU)
Timezone: Central European Time (CET) - UTC+1
Summer Time: Central European Summer Time (CEST) - UTC+2 (late March to late October)