Rhone-Alpes, France Guide

Know Before You Go...®

Why Rhone-Alpes, France?

  • Rhone-Alpes is the second most populous region in France.
  • The region has an abundance of natural parks and reserves.
  • Rhone-Alpes is home to some of the best skiing in France.
  • The region is well known for its cheese, including the famous Beaufort and Reblochon.
  • Rhone-Alpes is the birthplace of the famous painter Paul Cezanne.

Rhone-Alpes, France Weather/Climate

Average Temperatures

January
44° F
° F
February
47° F
° F
March
53° F
° F
April
59° F
° F
May
66° F
° F
June
72° F
° F
July
77° F
° F
August
77° F
° F
September
70° F
° F
October
62° F
° F
November
51° F
° F
December
45° F

Average Rainfall

January
1 inches
February
1 inches
March
1 inches
April
1.8 inches
May
2.6 inches
June
1.9 inches
July
1.7 inches
August
1.9 inches
September
2.3 inches
October
2.1 inches
November
1.7 inches
December
1.2 inches

Transportation on Rhone-Alpes, France

Getting to Rhone-Alpes, France and getting around. Our transportation tips will help make your trip smoother. More good sand advice.

Entry Documents

  • Valid Passport: Ensure it’s valid for at least 3 months beyond departure.
  • Visa: Check French Ministry of Foreign Affairs for visa requirements based on nationality.
  • Proof of Accommodation: Have confirmation of hotel or lodging.
  • Proof of Funds: Be ready to show you can cover your stay (bank statements or sponsorship letter).
  • Return Ticket: Show onward travel plans.
  • Travel Insurance: Recommended for health coverage.
  • Arrival Form: Complete if required.
  • COVID-19 Documents: Check latest travel advisories and COVID-19 requirements from reliable sources.

Departure Tax

No specific departure tax in Europe for American citizens; European countries typically include departure taxes in airline ticket prices, applying to all passengers, to fund airport services. Best to check with airline or airport website for any updates.

Driving

  • Non-EU/EEA tourists may need an International Driving Permit (IDP).
  • Ensure all occupants, including passengers in the back seat, wear seat belts.
  • Children under 10 or less than 135 cm in height must use an appropriate child safety seat.
  • Adhere to speed limits: Urban areas: 50 km/h; Non-urban roads: 80-90 km/h; Dual carriageways (expressways): 110-130 km/h; Motorways (autoroutes): 130-130 km/h
  • Using a mobile phone while driving is prohibited unless you have a hands-free system.
  • Vehicles coming from the right have priority unless road signs indicate otherwise. Always be cautious at intersections.
  • Yield to vehicles already in the roundabout and give way to the right.
  • Many highways have tolls; pay attention to toll booths and consider electronic toll devices available with some rental cars.
  • Use headlights at all times, even during the day.
  • In case of an emergency, call 112 and familiarize yourself with emergency service numbers.

Know Before You Go...® - Rhone-Alpes, France Travel Tips

Before making their way to Rhone-Alpes, France , vacationers like to know a little bit of helpful information to make them feel more at home during their stay. Take a look at our travel tips to make your time in villas in Rhone-Alpes, France even more relaxing.

Capital: 1996Lyon
Population: 20196,535,250 (as of 2019)
Size: 2019Large
Electric Current: 220/240
Official Language: The official language spoken in Rhone-Alpes is French, as it is a region in France. However, there are also many secondary languages spoken, such as Arpitan, a Romance language, and Occitan, a Romance language spoken in southern France. Additionally, many
Currency: Rhone-Alpes is a region located in southeastern France, known for its stunning alpine landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and delicious cuisine. When it comes to currency and payment options, the region offers a variety of choices for both locals and tourists. The official currency in Rhone-Alpes, as in the rest of France, is the Euro (€). It is widely accepted in all cities and towns, and most businesses, restaurants, and hotels will only accept payments in this currency. It is recommended to exchange your currency for Euros before arriving in Rhone-Alpes, as the exchange rates may be less favorable in tourist areas. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Rhone-Alpes, especially in larger cities like Lyon and Grenoble. Visa and Mastercard are the most commonly accepted cards, followed by American Express and Diners Club. However, it is always a good idea to have some cash on hand for smaller purchases or in case of any issues with card payments. ATMs are easily accessi
Tipping and Taxes: Tipping and taxes in Rhone-Alpes, a region located in southeastern France, follow a similar structure to the rest of the country. However, there are a few key differences that tourists should be aware of. In France, tipping is not expected as it is in other countries such as the United States. Good service is considered a standard part of the job, and therefore, servers are paid a livable wage. However, if you feel that the service was exceptional, it is common to leave a small tip of 5-10% of the total bill. This is usually done by rounding up the bill or leaving some loose change on the table. In Rhone-Alpes, there is also a value-added tax (VAT) that is included in the prices of goods and services. The standard VAT rate is 20%, but there is a reduced rate of 10% for certain products such as food and transportation. This tax is already included in the displayed price, so there is no need to add it on when paying for your purchases. Additionally, tourists should be aware of t
Dress Code: The dress code in Rhone-Alpes is generally formal and conservative, with an emphasis on modesty and appropriate attire for different occasions.
Topography: Rhone-Alpes is a region in southeastern France known for its diverse terrain, which includes mountains, valleys, lakes, and rivers.
Telephone: +33 4

Rhone-Alpes, France Weddings and Honeymoons

In France, getting married involves a few clear steps and required documents. Couples must apply for a marriage license at the local town hall (Mairie) in the area where one of the parties resides. Required documents include:

  • Valid passports or national ID cards for both parties.
  • Birth certificates (translated into French if necessary, and within three months of the application date).
  • Proof of residence in France for at least 40 days prior to the application (for at least one party).
  • Proof of marital status: If divorced, the final divorce decree; if widowed, the spouse’s death certificate.
  • Certificate of Celibacy (Attestation de célibat) or a certificate from your home country confirming that you are unmarried.

The cost of obtaining the marriage license is typically around €100 to €200, depending on the region. For weddings outside the town hall (e.g., at a venue), an officiant’s fee may range from €200 to €500. In addition, the marriage registration fee (around €30) may apply. It’s advisable to submit your application at least one month before the wedding date.