The national currency in France, and in the European Union, is the Euro. U.S. dollars are not accepted in most establishments, however, some hotels, shops and restaurants may accept your U.S. dollars at an agreed upon exchange rate. As of March 2005, the exchange rate is approximately 1? = $1.30 or $1 = 0.78?.

The Euro is divided into 100 cents.

Currency exchange can be made in most banks (look for a sign indicating Change) and post offices as well as in some large stores, train stations, airports and exchange offices near major tourist sites. Remember that even though exchange rates are fixed, agent commissions vary: they must be clearly displayed. Exchange rates vary from bank to bank in the U.S. and France. Large cities in the U.S. generally have banks specialized in foreign exchange with lower exchange rates. The same applies in France. In general, it is best to find a larger bank or exchange office in the center of town or in a financial area. If only a small amount of money is being exchanged, the hotel's money exchange rate may be adequate. Traveler's checks in U.S. dollars should be exchanged in banks or exchange offices because very few businesses will accept them. Traveler's checks in Euros can be purchased in the U.S. from specialized banks or in any major banks in France. They offer a safe means of traveling with ready cash.

Bank Opening Hours

Banking hours in Paris are usually from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Throughout the rest of France, banks are usually open from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday. Banks often close earlier the day before a public holiday.