France

France

France

IMPORTANT! PLEASE READ! ENTRY REQUIREMENTS FOR EUROPE! (Schengen Area)

The European Union EU Entry/Exit System (EES)

The new digital European Union (EU) Entry/Exit System (EES) will start on 12 October 2025 and register all non-EU nationals, including Australians, travelling in or out of the Schengen area.

European countries using the EES will gradually introduce the system at their external borders. Data collection will be gradually introduced at border crossing points with full implementation by 10 April 2026. 

When you enter the Schengen area on your first visit to Europe after the EES is introduced, you will be required to:

  • have your fingerprints and photo taken
  • answer Schengen Border Code questions. 

This will create a digital record that registers your biometric details. 

If you revisit the Schengen area within 3 years of creating your digital record, you'll only need to provide your fingerprint and/or photograph at the border on entry and exit.

You do not need to do anything before arriving at the border. 

The EES registration is free.

The registration process should only take a few minutes, but when the system starts, you may experience longer border queues.

If you frequently travel to the Schengen area for work and/or leisure, ensure your total stay is no more than 90 days in every 180 days. This period is calculated as a single period for all the European countries using the EES. It is attached to you as a person, rather than to your passport. This means that even if you enter the Schengen area using a different passport, you will still be restricted to the same 90 days in every 180 days.

If you stay longer than permitted, you will be considered an 'overstayer'.

If you overstay the period allowed in the European countries using the EES, the system will identify you and record this information. This may result in you being detained or removed from the country, a fine or prevent you from returning to the EU in the future.

PLEASE NOTE: Entry requirements are subject to change at any time. It is your responsibility to ensure you meet the current requirements before traveling. Please verify the latest information by consulting the nearest embassy, consulate, immigration office, or the official website of the immigration authority of your destination.  

 

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Les Arcs
Nestled in the heart of the Alps and facing the majestic Mont-Blanc, Les Arcs stands out as the benchmark ski resort in Savoie. This remarkable destination is a collection of five distinct villages, each situated at different altitudes: Arc 2000, Arc 1950, Arc 1800, Arc 1600, and Bourg-Saint-Maurice. Open all year round, Les Arcs offers a unique and unforgettable experience, making it the perfect choice for your skiing holiday. Les Arcs caters to a variety of preferences and lifestyles, ensuring everyone finds their perfect fit. Whether you seek thrilling adventures, leisurely relaxation, or heartwarming family moments, each village has something special to offer. Arc 2000 is ideal for thrill-seekers with its high-altitude skiing, while Arc 1950 exudes charm with its luxurious ambiance. Arc 1800 is vibrant and lively, perfect for socializing and entertainment, whereas Arc 1600 offers a serene and family-friendly atmosphere. Lastly, Bourg-Saint-Maurice provides a gateway to the entire resort, combining convenience with a touch of traditional Savoyard charm. This diverse range of villages ensures that Les Arcs can provide the comfort, facilities, and lifestyle that best suit your needs. From the adrenaline-pumping slopes of Arc 2000 to the relaxing vibes of Arc 1600, there's something for everyone. The seamless blend of modern amenities and authentic Alpine charm makes Les Arcs a premier destination for all types of travelers, promising an exceptional and memorable skiing holiday in Savoie.

Resorts in France

Nestled in the heart of the Alps, Courchevel stands out for its rich and varied ambiance, offering a unique experience across its six distinctive villages: Saint-Bon, Courchevel le Praz, Courchevel la Tania, Courchevel Village, Courchevel Moriond, and Courchevel 1850.

Each village, located at different altitudes, offers a unique atmosphere catering to diverse preferences. Whether you're seeking a tranquil vacation amidst serene spruce forests or an exhilarating sporting retreat, Courchevel has something for everyone. The resort’s charm is matched by its comprehensive facilities, ensuring that visitors can enjoy a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.

No matter what activities you choose to indulge in, Courchevel guarantees an exceptional skiing experience on impeccably groomed slopes. The resort is part of Les 3 Vallées, renowned for its outstanding snow grooming. Each night, from 5 p.m. to 7 a.m., 160 dedicated groomers work tirelessly to prepare the pistes, ensuring optimal snow cover and perfectly maintained runs. This meticulous attention to detail ensures that skiers of all levels can enjoy smooth, safe, and enjoyable skiing throughout their stay.

The Chamonix Valley, nestled between the majestic Mont Blanc range to the south and the Aiguilles Rouges Mountains to the north, is a must-visit destination. This picturesque area is not only renowned for its stunning natural beauty but also for its rich history. The town of Chamonix played host to the first ever Winter Olympic Games, cementing its place in the annals of sporting history. The valley's proximity to Mont Blanc, the highest peak in Europe at 4,807 meters, makes it an ultimate playground for snow sport enthusiasts. Whether you're an avid skier or simply a lover of breathtaking landscapes, Chamonix offers a unique and unforgettable experience.

Chamonix's skiing area is extensive, boasting over 150 km of ski slopes suitable for all levels of expertise. Advanced skiers can challenge themselves with 30 km of difficult slopes, including the infamous Piste des Pylones. Intermediate skiers have 70 km of trails to explore, while beginners can enjoy 46 km of gentler slopes. The diversity of terrain ensures that every skier finds their perfect run. For those who prefer a more relaxed pace, Chamonix offers delightful alternatives such as indulging in local wine and cheese, allowing visitors to savor the region's culinary delights while soaking in its magnificent alpine views.

Nestled in the heart of the Alps and facing the majestic Mont-Blanc, Les Arcs stands out as the benchmark ski resort in Savoie. This remarkable destination is a collection of five distinct villages, each situated at different altitudes: Arc 2000, Arc 1950, Arc 1800, Arc 1600, and Bourg-Saint-Maurice. Open all year round, Les Arcs offers a unique and unforgettable experience, making it the perfect choice for your skiing holiday.

Les Arcs caters to a variety of preferences and lifestyles, ensuring everyone finds their perfect fit. Whether you seek thrilling adventures, leisurely relaxation, or heartwarming family moments, each village has something special to offer. Arc 2000 is ideal for thrill-seekers with its high-altitude skiing, while Arc 1950 exudes charm with its luxurious ambiance. Arc 1800 is vibrant and lively, perfect for socializing and entertainment, whereas Arc 1600 offers a serene and family-friendly atmosphere. Lastly, Bourg-Saint-Maurice provides a gateway to the entire resort, combining convenience with a touch of traditional Savoyard charm.

This diverse range of villages ensures that Les Arcs can provide the comfort, facilities, and lifestyle that best suit your needs. From the adrenaline-pumping slopes of Arc 2000 to the relaxing vibes of Arc 1600, there's something for everyone. The seamless blend of modern amenities and authentic Alpine charm makes Les Arcs a premier destination for all types of travelers, promising an exceptional and memorable skiing holiday in Savoie.

Nestled in the idyllic French Alps, Méribel is a charming mountain resort renowned for its stone and wood chalets and panoramic views of the Alps and Mont-Blanc. As part of the world's largest ski area, Les 3 Vallées, Méribel offers exceptional ski conditions across its 600 kilometers of slopes, ensuring guaranteed snow with over 85% of the area above 1,800 meters.

Méribel caters to all levels and types of snowsports, including alpine skiing, freeride, freestyle, snowboarding, cross-country skiing, sit-skiing, and ski touring. The resort's diverse accommodations range from luxury chalets and spa-hotels to upmarket residences and family-friendly options.

Beyond skiing, Méribel offers a plethora of activities like snowshoeing, tobogganing, and ice skating. Easily accessible from Lyon and Geneva airports and close to major train stations, Méribel combines convenience with the refined art of living well, offering gourmet dining from Michelin-starred restaurant to hearty local cuisine. Experience the elegance and scenic beauty of Méribel for an unforgettable alpine adventure.

Nestled in the heart of the Alps between snow-covered forests, sunny plateaus, and pristine mountain pastures, the iconic ski resort of Megève offers a ski area that is both expansive and exhilarating. For generations, skiers from around the world have flocked to Megève, drawn by its impressive array of mountain facilities and modern equipment.

More than just a resort, Megève represents an art of living all its own. Enveloped by the majestic mountains and nestled in the heart of the Mont Blanc region, this charming village brings your desires to life. Whether you are seeking serenity, comfort, or an adventure, choosing Megève for your stay ensures you will experience an unforgettable blend of relaxation and excitement.

As you glide down the well-groomed slopes or explore the picturesque village, you’ll find yourself captivated by the unique charm and elegance that defines Megève. The village’s rich history, combined with its contemporary amenities, creates an atmosphere that invites you to unwind and savor every moment. In Megève, every visitor discovers an irresistible urge to stay just a little longer.

Tignes is one of the top ski destinations, known for its long, snow-sure season and impressive altitudes. The main resort, Tignes-Le-Lac, sits at 2100m above sea level, with lower villages like Les Brévières and Les Boisses at 1550m and 1850m respectively. Towering above these is the Grande Motte Glacier, which reaches an altitude of 3450m and offers skiing opportunities year-round, including during the summer. The resort was redesigned after the original town was submerged by the Lac du Chevril dam in 1952, and today it consists of several purpose-built villages, all conveniently located near ski lifts.

Tignes is one of the more affordable ski resorts in France, attracting families, university groups, and friends looking for a memorable alpine experience. The resort offers a variety of restaurants, bars, and cafés that cater to different tastes and budgets, making it perfect for both dining and après-ski fun. With a range of accommodation options and a focus on skiers’ needs, Tignes ensures that every visitor has easy access to the slopes and an enjoyable stay.

 

Val d'Isere, part of the expansive Espace Killy ski area alongside Tignes, is not only the hometown of Winter Olympic hero Jean-Claude Killy but also renowned as the 'Mecca' of all ski resorts, offering some of the finest skiing experiences in the Alps.

With a variety of terrain that caters to all skill levels, Val d'Isere boasts excellent groomed runs for beginners and high-altitude glacier skiing for the more advanced. Off-piste enthusiasts will also find an abundance of challenging areas to explore. The resort's infrastructure and services are top-notch, ensuring that every skier, from novice to expert, can enjoy their time on the slopes. The breathtaking alpine scenery adds to the charm, making it a favorite destination for winter sports enthusiasts worldwide.

After an exhilarating day on the slopes, the legendary après ski scene at La Folie Douce is a must-experience. Known for its vibrant atmosphere, this iconic bar offers a unique blend of live music, DJs, dancers, and performers. Dancing on tabletops while sipping champagne amid a lively and eclectic crowd is just part of the unforgettable experience that awaits. La Folie Douce epitomizes the lively and luxurious social scene that makes Val d'Isere more than just a ski resort but a complete winter adventure destination.

Renowned for the quality of its snow and state-of-the-art ski lifts, Val Thorens is a skiing paradise. Carving, off-piste, ski touring, snowpark, boardercross, telemark—there is something for everyone here. With a domain located 99% above 2000 m, Val Thorens offers excellent conditions for maximum enjoyment.

As a ski-in/ski-out resort, you can step out directly onto the slopes. Between fields of powder and perfectly groomed slopes, Val Thorens caters to all performance levels, from beginners to advanced skiers, ensuring that everyone can find pleasure on the slopes. The resort's design prioritizes convenience and enjoyment, making it an ideal destination for all winter sports enthusiasts.

Val Thorens is also a haven for mountain lovers, offering exceptional viewpoints such as the legendary Péclet Glacier and the Cime de Caron, which the Michelin Green Guide hails as “the most beautiful view in the Alps.” From the Cime de Caron, you can experience a breathtaking 360° panorama of more than 1,000 peaks spanning the French, Swiss, and Italian Alps, providing a grandiose spectacle that is simply unforgettable.