France

France's TGV high-speed rail network is the backbone of getting around the country -- Paris to Lyon takes under two hours, and to Marseille or Bordeaux around three, often faster door-to-door than flying once airport time is factored in. The regional TER network fills in slower, cheaper service almost everywhere else.

A car is genuinely useful, sometimes necessary, for rural regions like the Dordogne, much of Provence's countryside, and Brittany's coastline. It's a liability in central Paris, though -- narrow streets, expensive parking, and an excellent Métro/RER network make a car actively counterproductive there.

Domestic flights make sense mainly for Corsica or long north-south hops. Within cities, walking and public transit cover most historic centers on their own.

France is a safe country to visit by most measures -- violent crime against travelers is rare. The practical risks visitors actually encounter are almost entirely petty and preventable.

• Pickpocketing is the most common issue, concentrated on crowded public transport and around major sights -- the Paris Métro (especially Line 1 near major tourist stops), the area around the Eiffel Tower, Montmartre, and the RER B train to/from the airports see the most reports. Keep bags zipped and worn in front on crowded transit.
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• Common scams worth recognizing: the "gold ring" or "petition" distraction scams near major Paris landmarks, unofficial "friendship bracelet" tie-ons at Sacré-Cœur, and unlicensed taxi drivers at airports quoting flat fares well above the metered rate.
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• Car break-ins targeting visible luggage are a known risk at highway rest stops and some coastal parking areas, particularly in the south -- never leave valuables visible in a parked car.
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• Strikes and protests are a genuine, recurring part of French public life and can disrupt trains, flights, and city transport with little notice -- checking current strike notices (especially around SNCF and Paris transit) before a trip is worth the five minutes it takes.
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• Emergency number: 112 works free of charge from any phone anywhere in France (and the rest of the EU) and connects to police, fire, or medical services.