Paris Attacks: Is It Safe to Travel to Paris?

Despite the announcement that France was closing its borders following a series of coordinated terror attacks, flights, ferries and trains have been running as normal but security has been stepped up. Some major tourist attractions in Paris closed as the country entered three days of mourning.

The huge security presence probably means that it is as safe as it can be, though there are likely to be delays at airports and on Eurostar because of this extra security. Border control checks have also been implemented at all entry points into France.

French authorities have closed the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum and other top tourist sites in Paris until further notice.

French military patrol near the Eiffel TowerFrench military patrolling near the Eiffel Tower in January   Photo: EPA

A Louvre spokeswoman said the museum opened as normal Saturday with enhanced security, but was ordered closed by the Culture Ministry after President Francois Hollande called for a national day of mourning. A spokeswoman for the Eiffel Tower said the monument did not open as a security precaution.

The Culture Ministry said "public cultural sites" were closed in the Paris region Saturday. All of Paris's municipal museums have closed for the weekend.

The Foreign Office has advised British nationals are advised to exercise caution in public places and follow the advice of the local authorities. "On Friday 13 November, a number of terrorist incidents took place in Paris resulting in widespread casualties," its website states. "Systematic border control checks have been implemented at all entry points into France.

"A national state of emergency and a three-day period of mourning have been declared. Public gatherings in the Ile de France region (Paris and surrounding area) have been prohibited.

"Members of the public who have been directly affected by the incidents in Paris, or who are concerned about family members and friends who may be directly affected can call the Foreign and Commonwealth on 020 7008 0000."

Eurostar services have been running to Paris from London St Pancras but there were reports that many seats were empty. Passengers who had booked to travel to Paris but decided against it have been offered a free exchange.

Eurotunnel services for cars and trucks from Folkestone to Calais have also been running to schedule.