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Nice, France

Rules to follow in Nice

3 laws, restrictions, and customs in Nice that travellers often break without knowing — and the fines or consequences that follow.

Last updated 2026-08-09

1. Photographing the Eiffel Tower at night is restricted by copyright

The Eiffel Tower's daytime appearance is in the public domain, but the nightly light display is a copyrighted artistic work. Sharing commercial photographs of it lit up at night without a licence is technically a copyright infringement under French law.

2. Always say 'Bonjour' before making a request

In France, greeting someone with 'Bonjour' (or 'Bonsoir' in the evening) before making any request — in a shop, restaurant, or when asking directions — is considered basic politeness. Skipping the greeting and making a direct request is considered rude.

3. Drones require prior authorisation in most urban areas

Flying drones over Paris and other French cities is heavily restricted. The airspace around landmarks, airports, and cities requires prior authorisation from the DGAC. Unauthorised flying results in on-the-spot fines.

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