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Here are the latest rules for US visitors to Paris, France, plus tips on the best time of year to visit

An aerial view of rooftops and the Eiffel Tower in Paris, France.
Paris is currently open to US travelers. Robbie Lee for Insider

Paris is easily one of the most popular destinations in the world. As of publishing, traveling to Paris and France from the US is possible, but knowing how to make your entry smooth and seamless before you arrive is essential.

I've made the trip myself and compiled the answers to common traveler questions below that you should consider before arriving in Paris, as well as tips regarding local weather and the best time of year to visit.

What are currently COVID-19 restrictions in Paris?

While COVID-19 travel protocols have shifted slightly over the past few months, one thing remains consistent: Vaccinated travel is the easiest option.

As of February 2022, France has made it even easier for vaccinated travelers to visit the country by eliminating the need for a pre-arrival COVID-19 test. Instead, vaccinated travelers can simply arrive at the border with a valid passport and vaccination card.

Visitors are also required to fill out a sworn declaration that they are not experiencing COVID-19 symptoms or have had close contact with a confirmed case of COVID-19 prior to leaving for Paris.

Non-vaccinated travelers are still required to present a negative pre-departure COVID-19 test, either a PCR test within 72 hours of departure or an antigen (rapid) test within the 48 hours prior to departure, as well as the aforementioned sworn statement. Quarantines are not necessary for vaccinated or unvaccinated travelers unless they test positive within seven days of arrival.

Regardless, make sure you dot the i's and cross the t's ahead of any travels because the website for the US Embassy in France says it requires individuals 18 years and older to have a booster shot of an mRNA vaccine if it's been 9 months or more since your second dose (or a single dose of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine) in order to be considered "fully vaccinated." If you're still within the 9 months, you may still qualify under the two-shot window as long as you were vaccinated at least seven days prior to your departure with a vaccine approved by the European Medicines Agency. Children over 12 must also be vaccinated with at least two doses, while children under 12 are currently exempt from being vaccinated.

Keep in mind that if you're arriving from a country other than the US, your entry requirements might differ. And as new variants continue, the French government may update these requirements. Read more here.

Masks are currently only mandatory on public transportation in France.

A cobbestone street in Paris in Montmarte.
Fall is one of the nicest times to visit Paris. Robbie Lee for Insider

When is the best time to visit Paris?

Although the peak tourist season officially ends after summer, the fall is one of the most pleasant times to visit Paris. During the autumn season, temperatures range in the 60s, 70s, and sometimes 80s. Nights are consistently cooler, so you'll want to pack a light jacket to offset that transitional summer or early fall wardrobe.

You can also shop for one: Head to the Louvre and Tuileries district for luxe labels or to Marais for more low-key, vintage trends.

View Insider's comprehensive guide to visiting Paris.

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