Foreign Office issues fresh advice to Brits heading to 'most visited country in world'

The Foreign Office has just updated its travel advice (12.08) for Brits planning to hop across the channel and visit France. The country is the most visited in the world, welcoming about 100 million travellers each year.

So far, it has avoided the anti-tourism protests that have gripped Spain and some other European countries. Once again, the main safety concern is the threat of terrorism - something that applies to many other European states. Foreign Office officials warn that "terrorists are very likely to try to carry out attacks in France."

They list a number of places where such attacks could take place - such as shopping centres, nightlife venues, sporting and cultural events, public transport and places of worship.

Methods of attack have included knife attacks, shootings, bombings and vehicle attacks," they write. "Be vigilant in public places and follow the advice of local French authorities."

Although France has avoided the worst of the anti-tourism protests, it is still plagued by frequent strikes, which can cause travel chaos.

"There can be frequent industrial action across France," the Foreign Office writes. "This can lead to disruption and delays on roads and public transport. If you're due to travel to or within France, monitor the media, check your operator's advice and follow the advice of the authorities.

"Check your operator's advice before travelling, including where you are taking connecting flights."

The FCDO reminds British tourists that France will be one of the countries where the European Union's new Entry/Exit System (EES) will be rolled out.

From October 12, 2025, travellers heading to and from the Schengen Area may need to have their fingerprints and photo taken, as well as answering some questions.

"If you enter the Schengen area through the Port of Dover, Eurotunnel at Folkestone or St Pancras International, this information will be taken at the border, before you leave the UK," they note.

"You may also need to provide either your fingerprint or photo when you leave the Schengen area. EES may take each passenger a few extra minutes to complete so be prepared to wait longer than usual at the border once the system starts."