Dabbling in Jet Lag
Looking for the best apps for France travel?
If you’re planning a trip to France, then you’ve come to the right place.
Not only do I live in France, but I’ve traveled extensively throughout the country. I know which apps work well and which ones will make your travels easier and more enjoyable. From finding restaurants to buying train tickets, I know of an app that can help.
And, today, I want to share with you the best apps for traveling in France.
So, let’s get started!
Please note: This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking on a link (at no extra cost to you). Privacy Policy.
Table of Contents
- Best Apps for France Travel
- Best Train Apps for France
- Best Navigation Apps for Travel in France
- Best Language Apps for Travel in France
- Best Email and Social Media Apps
- Conclusion: Best Apps for France Travel
Best Apps for France Travel
Exploring France is an incredible experience, but it can be challenging to navigate a foreign country.
Luckily, there are plenty of apps available to help make your trip easy and hassle-free.
Here are some of my favorite apps for traveling in France!
1. Airalo
Airalo is an app that enables users to buy virtual international SIM cards (or eSIMs). It provides access to low-cost cellular data in over 200 countries including France.
In short, this is a life and money saver.
You won’t have to worry about getting a plastic SIM card or signing up for a long-term contract. All you have to do is select the data plan that works for you and download the app. It’s that easy.
Useful Tip: Airalo’s eSIMs are only compatible with unlocked phones.
Availability – iOS and Android.
2. Wise
Wise is a banking platform that allows you to hold accounts in multiple currencies. You can exchange money on the app, and you don’t have to worry about added bank or ATM fees. Best of all, it’s free to sign up and the only thing you have to pay for is the debit card.
As an American in France, I’m always monitoring the conversion rates between the Euro and the United States Dollar. And with Wise, I can easily exchange money when the rate is in my favor. I don’t have to take whatever awful rate some ATM gives me.
Availability – iOS and Android.
3. WayAway
WayAway is a revolutionary flight search engine that simplifies the process of finding the best deals on airfare. And, with a wide selection of airlines, including budget carriers, you’re sure to get the most bang for your buck. You won’t find a better platform for cheap flights to France.
But what sets WayAway apart from other flight search engines is the membership plan, WayAway Plus. It gives you cashback on a variety of travel expenses, such as flights, car rentals, and tours. There’s a seven-day free trial, so you can try it out without committing.
If you’re planning on booking a tour in Alsace, for example, and you have WayAway Plus, you’ll be able to get cashback.
Needless to say, it’s an all-in-one service that will make your trip to France that much more enjoyable. And you’ll be saving money in the process!
Availability – iOS and Android.
Find the Best Deals on Flights here ➔
4. Booking.com
Booking.com is my go-to for booking accommodations. It offers a wide selection of hotels, apartments, and hostels throughout France. On one platform you can compare prices, check reviews, and make bookings. Plus, they often have flexible cancellation policies, making your trip worry-free!
But the best feature is their loyalty program.
I signed up several years ago, and I’m now a Level 3 member. This means I get special offers, up to 20% off selected bookings, and sometimes free breakfast.
Useful Tip: Their loyalty program is free. All you have to do is sign up!
Availability – iOS and Android.
Book your Accommodation here ➔
5. SafetyWing
If there is one thing I never travel without it’s travel insurance. Not only does it give me peace of mind, but it has also saved me a ton of money.
And while there are tons of options out there, SafetyWing is my preferred provider.
They offer affordable coverage with a variety of packages. Some of the options include medical, lost checked luggage, travel delay, and much much more.
Don’t risk your health and safety. Get covered so you can travel without having to worry about what you’ll do if something goes wrong.
Check Plans and Coverage here ➔
6. AirHelp
AirHelp is an app that helps travelers get compensation for delayed, canceled, or overbooked flights. It’s the easiest and fastest way to claim flight delay compensation.
And, in cases where the airline didn’t re-book your flight, AirHelp can help you get your money back. They can even get you reimbursed for any hotel expenses you had because of the delay!
I can’t tell you how many times I’ve had a delayed or canceled flight and the airline refused to refund me. AirHelp took care of everything and got my money back. While they do take a commission, it’s saved me so much time and money over the years, it’s hardly a reason not to use it.
7. Busbud
Busbud is an online bus ticketing app that helps you find and book buses and track real-time schedules. It covers more than 20 countries including France.
The app also features a loyalty program where users can collect points to get special deals and discounts. So, if you buy five tickets, you’ll get a discount on the sixth.
This is my go-to app for bus travel. It’s convenient, easy to use, and they offer the most comprehensive list of options. I’ve used Busbud not only in France but around the world, that’s how good it is!
Availability – iOS and Android.
Find the Best Deals on Bus Tickets here ➔
8. Uber
Uber is an online transportation network company that allows users to request rides. It connects drivers and riders and provides real-time location tracking and fare estimates.
With Uber, you can arrange a ride in minutes from virtually anywhere in the world. It’s also one of the cheapest ways to travel by taxi.
Unfortunately, it’s not available everywhere in France.
For larger cities like Lyon, Paris, and Strasbourg you’ll have no trouble finding an Uber. But when I was traveling from Colmar to Eguisheim, I was not able to find an Uber driver in the area. So, keep this in mind when you’re visiting more remote areas of the country.
Availability – iOS and Android.
9. G7
G7 is the best app for finding a taxi in Paris. It’s far better than Uber. The drivers are reliable, and the rates are guaranteed.
I’ve been screwed by so many Uber drivers in Paris that I, now, only use G7. Plus, they have a phenomenal booking service. I use it every time I need to get to the airport (either Charles de Gaulle or Paris-Orly) early in the morning.
Availability – iOS and Android.
10. The Fork
The Fork is an online platform that allows users to book tables at restaurants in France. It provides detailed information about the restaurant as well as availability.
But the best part about The Fork is the discounts and special promotions.
If you reserve a table through their app, oftentimes you can get as much as 40% off the bill!
In fact, anytime I go out to eat at a restaurant in Strasbourg, I first check The Fork for a discount. I’ve saved so much money that I wouldn’t think of making a reservation without it.
Availability – iOS and Android.
11. Flush
Finding a public restroom is, for whatever reason, impossible in France.
Luckily, there’s an app called Flush to help.
It uses a mapped database to show you the nearest public restrooms.
You might not think you’ll need it until you do so it’s worth installing it just in case.
Availability – iOS and Android.
12. NordVPN
You might not think you’ll need a VPN until you do. I’ve been locked out of my bank account and unable to access websites because I’m in a foreign country.
Using a VPN solves all these problems while giving you an extra layer of security and privacy.
I’ve tried several different VPN providers and I’ve found NordVPN to be the best. It’s safe, secure, and affordable. I’ve been using it for years and I love it!
Availability – iOS and Android.
Check Plans and Pricing here ➔
Best Train Apps for France
If you’re traveling around France or even in Paris, you’ll need to use the train. It’s impossible not to.
While you could go to the train station to buy a ticket, oftentimes the machines don’t work or nothing is in English.
It’s much easier to use an online platform where you can compare prices and buy tickets all in one place. And, as a bonus, you won’t have to worry about planning your journey in a foreign language.
So, here are the best train apps for France.
13. Trainline
Trainline is an online platform that allows you to search, compare, and book train tickets across Europe. It’s easy to use, convenient, and you can store the tickets right on your phone.
Plus, if you book in advance, you can get huge discounts.
I travel to Strasbourg from Paris and vice versa so often that I need an app that gives me the best fares and is easy to use. And Trainline does just that. There is a 3% booking fee, but for most trips, it’s negligible.
So, if you plan on traveling by train in France and want to save money on train tickets, Trainline is the way to go!
Availability – iOS and Android.
Book and Purchase your Train Tickets here ➔
14. Omio
Omio is a travel planning and booking platform that makes it easier to plan trips in Europe. It allows you to compare prices for trains, buses, and flights so you can find the best option for your journey.
It’s a very popular service that competes with Trainline. And their booking fee is similar. The only advantage Omio has over Trainline is that you can also book flights. But there’s a better app for that. So, for trains, I go with Trainline because I prefer their interface.
But I recommend looking at both and seeing which one gives you the best price.
Availability – iOS and Android.
15. Rail Europe
Rail Europe is a booking platform that sells train tickets and rail passes for destinations in Europe. Their interface is much easier to use than those of national operators.
But they aren’t the best for France.
As an example, if you’re traveling from Strasbourg to Colmar, the most you would pay for a round-trip train ticket is €30. But, if you book with Rail Europe, you’ll have to pay a massive booking fee. It’s a flat rate of €7.45, which is ridiculously high for a trip like this.
Needless to say, I recommend going with Trainline or Omio unless the booking fee is more than Rail Europe.
Availability – iOS and Android.
Check Prices with Rail Europe here ➔
16. SNCF-Connect
SNCF-Connect is the official app of the French national railway system. The app provides users with timetables for rail travel, ticket sales, and real-time information.
Compared to the options listed above, SNCF-Connect does not have a booking fee, but the website and mobile app are glitchy. It always takes me a few tries to make a purchase and sometimes the platform crashes for no reason. It’s not user-friendly whatsoever.
And, to make matters worse, it’s impossible to get in contact with customer service.
Unless you are willing to deal with all the negatives, I recommend using Trainline or Omio.
Availability – iOS and Android.
17. Bonjour RAPT
The Bonjour RATP App is an essential tool for anyone visiting Paris or Île-de-France. It’s the easiest way to navigate the entire public transportation network (trains, metros, buses, and trams). They even have maps and timetables that update in real-time.
The app offers a ton of services to make your travels as smooth and stress-free as possible. You can plan journeys, calculate estimated travel times, receive alerts, and buy tickets.
Useful Tips:
- The app also has an offline mode, so you can access the maps even when you don’t have an internet connection.
- Every major city has its own public transport app. If you plan on visiting Strasbourg, the local transport app is CTS-Strasbourg.
Availability – iOS and Android.
Best Navigation Apps for Travel in France
Traveling in a foreign country like France can be scary, especially if you get lost. Fortunately, there are several apps that can help you find your way.
Here are the best navigation apps for traveling in France.
18. Waze
Waze is a GPS navigation app that helps users find the fastest routes to their destinations. It provides real-time traffic so you can adjust your plan if you need.
Additionally, Waze offers voice directions and alerts for police presence/speed traps.
Availability – iOS and Android.
19. Google Maps
Google Maps is a web mapping service developed by Google. It offers street maps, real-time traffic conditions, and route planning for traveling by foot, car, and bicycle.
Chances are you already have this app on your phone. I do and I use it all the time. It’s the best all-around navigation app for France travel.
Availability – iOS and Android.
20. Maps.me
Maps.me is a mobile app that provides users with offline digital maps. It’s used for finding points of interest and getting directions for traveling by foot, car, or bike.
You can download detailed maps for offline use so you can access them when you don’t have internet access.
This app has been on my phone for years. I find it especially useful for hiking and visiting small villages, like the ones in Alsace. It’s an absolute lifesaver and, if you don’t plan on purchasing a SIM card, Maps.me is a must!
Availability – iOS and Android.
21. Citymapper
Citymapper is an app designed to help travelers get from point A to point B. It provides real-time public transit routes and directions.
Compared to Google Maps, the interface is much cleaner, and it gives you the most direct route upfront. It’s worth trying both to see which one suits your needs better.
Availability – iOS and Android.
Best Language Apps for Travel in France
The official language in France is French. And while people do speak English, you’ll still need to read menus, ask for directions, etc.
Luckily, there are apps to help you communicate in French, even if you’re not fluent.
So, here are the best language apps for traveling in France.
22. Google Translate
The best translation app is, without a doubt, Google Translate.
This app can translate text, speech, and images from one language to another. It supports over 100 languages, including French, and can be used on your phone.
Google Translate also works offline. All you need to do is download the French and English dictionaries and you’re good to go!
Availability – iOS and Android.
23. iTalki
If you’re planning on spending more than a few days in France, I recommend learning some French. It will make your trip far more enjoyable.
And the best app to learn French is iTalki.
I’ve taken over 50 lessons with iTalki, and I absolutely love this platform.
In short, it’s private tutoring without the cost. Not only that but you can find a tutor that fits with your learning style, budget, and time constraints. You can even get lessons tailored to traveling in France. It’s the best way to learn French without living in France.
Availability – iOS and Android.
24. Duolingo
Duolingo is a free language-learning platform that includes lessons, apps, and games.
Will you become fluent while using Duolingo?
No, you won’t.
But it can help you learn simple phrases and basic grammar, like how to introduce yourself in French.
My favorite part of this app is the interactive flashcards. Even though I’m fluent in French, I enjoy using this app. It’s fun, educational, and a great way to learn new words.
Availability – iOS and Android.
Best Email and Social Media Apps
If you’re traveling abroad to France, you’ll want to keep in contact with your friends and family.
And the best way to do that is with an app.
Here are the top email and social media apps for traveling in France.
25. WhatsApp
WhatsApp is a messaging app that allows users to send and receive messages, photos, videos, and other documents.
This is my main app for communication. I don’t have to worry about having an international phone plan. All I need is an eSIM that offers a good data plan, like Airalo, and I’m good to go!
Useful Tip: Both you and the person you want to call or message need to have WhatsApp for it to work.
Availability – iOS and Android.
26. Facebook and Instagram
Facebook and Instagram are popular social media platforms that allow you to connect with friends, family, and followers while traveling. It’s a great way to share stories, videos, and photos from your trip without having to write tons of emails.
Both platforms also have a messenger where you can make calls and send messages. If you’re not interested in using WhatsApp, this is another option.
Availability – iOS and Android.
27. Gmail or Yahoo
Some people don’t like having their email on their phone, but when you’re traveling you don’t have a choice.
The one time I didn’t have Gmail on my phone, I got locked out. I had a new phone and because my laptop connected to a WiFi network that Google didn’t recognize, I got blocked. And I don’t think I need to explain how inconvenient that was.
Always, always have your email app downloaded on your phone!
Availability – iOS and Android.
Conclusion: Best Apps for France Travel
Traveling to France can be a great experience, but it’s important to have the right apps before you go. From buying train tickets to finding a bathroom, there are a ton of apps that can make your trip that much more enjoyable. And, often, save money! Now, all that’s left to do is pick the apps that work best for you and start planning your trip. Bon Voyage!
Read More Articles About France
I hope you enjoyed my post about the best apps for France travel and found it useful. Here are some other articles that I think you might find interesting.
- 33 Incredible Things to Do in Lyon, France
- 19 Best Things to Do in Paris this Summer
- 3 Days in Strasbourg – The Perfect Itinerary (from a Local)
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