VPNs and other tools worth installing before you go, curated for travelers visiting France.
Météo-France is the optional official weather app for mainland France and overseas territories.
Official French forecasts, radar, short-term rain information and dangerous-weather Vigilance notifications.
It provides forecasts, radar, short-term rain information and Vigilance notifications for dangerous weather. Enable the relevant department and read the full warning rather than relying only on an icon. Mountain, avalanche, marine, flood and heat risks may require the specialist bulletin and instructions from the local authority. Weather can close trails, beaches, monuments, roads and transport, so recheck before a long drive or outdoor plan.
France's FR-Alert public-warning system does not require an app, registration or subscription. Compatible phones in the affected area receive a cell-broadcast notification with a distinctive sound; follow the message and official instructions. For emergencies call 112, or use 15 for medical emergencies, 17 for police and 18 for fire and rescue. The 114 service is available for deaf and hard-of-hearing users.
A callback may display 0800 112 112, but that number is not itself an emergency number to dial. Keep the accommodation address, passport copy, insurer assistance number, embassy contact, prescription list and card-blocking numbers available offline. An app is a supplement, not a substitute for official alerts, emergency services or local evacuation instructions.
No single utilities app stands out for visitors in France. The guidance above explains what to try and what to do when it does not work.
Bento recommends one utilities app in France, checked in 2026.
These apps need data
Guac eSIM covers France with plans from $0.58 per GB. Install it before you land and activate instantly.
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