Connecting with people in France from the UK is often necessary for both personal and professional reasons. Whether you have family, friends, or business contacts across the Channel, knowing the easiest and most affordable ways to call is important. This guide will explain everything you need to know about making calls to France from the UK.

Understanding the best calling formats, optimal timings, and available services makes the process simple. We will cover reliable methods, cost-saving tips, and essential dialing information to help you stay connected efficiently. For instance, according to Eurostat data, cross-border communication between EU countries, including France and the UK, remains a vital part of economic and social ties.(Read Here)

Why People in the UK Call France

The close geographical proximity and strong historical and economic links between the UK and France mean that international calls are frequent. Many individuals have family or friends living in France, requiring regular personal communication.

For businesses, calling France is often essential for sales, customer support, supplier relations, and expanding into the European market. Efficient and affordable communication is crucial for maintaining these connections. Finding the right method ensures you can speak to who you need, when you need, without excessive costs.

Essential Information Before Dialing France

French Phone Number Format

Knowing the structure of French phone numbers is the first step to dialing correctly from the UK. French numbers follow a specific pattern.

• Country Code: The international country code for France is +33.
• Area Codes: These vary depending on the region or type of number.
  • Landline numbers usually start with a ‘0’ followed by a digit from 1 to 5 (e.g., 01 for Paris, 02 for the Northwest, 03 for the Northeast, 04 for the Southeast/Corsica, 05 for the Southwest).
  • Mobile numbers typically begin with ’06’ or ’07’.
• Full Number Format: When dialing from outside France (like the UK), you drop the leading ‘0’ from the area code or mobile prefix.

Dialing Examples:

Always ensure you drop the initial zero after dialing the country code (33).

Best Times to Call France from the UK

Considering the time difference helps ensure you call at a convenient time for the person in France. France uses Central European Time (CET), which is usually one hour ahead of the UK (which uses Greenwich Mean Time – GMT, or British Summer Time – BST).

• Time Difference: France is CET (UK time + 1 hour).
• French Business Hours: Typically 9 AM to 5 PM CET (8 AM to 4 PM UK time). Lunch breaks are often taken between 12 PM and 2 PM CET, sometimes lasting longer, especially outside major cities.
• Personal Calls: For friends and family, evening hours in France (e.g., after 6 PM CET, which is after 5 PM UK time) are usually best. Avoid calling too early in the morning or late at night unless agreed upon.

Recommended Calling Windows (UK Time):

• Business: Aim for 9 AM to 12 PM UK time or 2 PM to 4 PM UK time to align with standard French business hours, avoiding the common lunch period.
• Personal: Late afternoon or early evening UK time (e.g., 5 PM to 8 PM UK time) often corresponds to early evening in France, a good time for personal calls.

Always double-check the current time difference, especially when daylight saving time changes occur, as these might not happen on the same date in the UK and France.

Top Methods for Calling France from the UK

Several options are available for making calls from the UK to France. Each method has its own advantages regarding cost, convenience, and features.

1. Virtual Phone Systems (VoIP)

Virtual phone systems use Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) technology to make calls over the internet rather than traditional phone lines. This is often the most flexible and cost-effective method, especially for frequent international calls.

• How it works: You use an app or software on your computer or smartphone, connected to the internet, to place calls.
• Advantages:
  • Significantly lower call rates compared to traditional providers.
  • Often include advanced features like call recording, voicemail-to-text, multiple number support (including getting a local French virtual number), SMS, and integrations.
  • Good call quality, provided you have a stable internet connection.
• Disadvantages: Requires a reliable internet connection.

Services like Telfon are examples of virtual phone systems that offer international calling capabilities specifically designed to be cost-effective and feature-rich.

2. Mobile Provider International Add-Ons

Many UK mobile network providers offer specific bundles or add-ons for international calls at reduced rates.

• How it works: You subscribe to an international calling plan or add-on with your existing mobile contract.
• Advantages: Convenient as it uses your existing phone and network. Rates are usually lower than standard international pay-as-you-go rates.
• Disadvantages: Rates might still be higher than VoIP services, especially for frequent or long calls. The included minutes or countries might be limited. Can become expensive if you exceed your plan allowance.

Check with your specific provider (like EE, Vodafone, O2, etc.) to see what international options they offer for calls to France.

3. International Calling Cards

Calling cards are a prepaid option where you purchase a card with a set amount of credit for international calls.

• How it works: You dial an access number, enter a PIN from the card, and then dial the international number you want to reach.
• Advantages: Can offer lower rates than standard mobile rates for occasional use. Good for budget control as you only spend the amount on the card.
• Disadvantages: Can be inconvenient due to the multiple steps required (dialing access number, PIN, then destination number). Rates can sometimes be confusing, with hidden fees or connection charges. Credit can run out quickly if not managed.

Calling cards are less popular now compared to digital alternatives but are still available.

4. Messaging Apps with Calling Features

Popular messaging apps often include voice and video calling features that work over the internet.

• How it works: Both parties need to have the same app installed (e.g., WhatsApp, Skype, Facebook Messenger) and a data or Wi-Fi connection. Calls are typically free between app users. Some apps offer low-cost calls to regular phone numbers.
• Advantages: Free for app-to-app calls. Easy to use if you and your contact already use the same app.
• Disadvantages: Requires both parties to be online and using the app. Call quality can vary depending on internet connection stability. Not ideal for professional calls where reliability and dedicated features are needed. Calls to standard phone numbers might still incur costs.

This method is excellent for personal calls with friends and family who use the same apps.

Finding the Most Cost-Effective Solution

The “cheapest” way to call France from the UK depends heavily on your calling habits and needs.

• For Frequent Calls (Business or Personal): Virtual phone systems (VoIP) like Telfon generally offer the lowest per-minute rates for international calls and often include features that add value beyond just calling. Bulk usage typically results in better savings.
• For Occasional Calls: Mobile provider add-ons might be convenient if you only make a few calls a month, avoiding the need for a separate service. Messaging apps are free for app-to-app communication, making them ideal for zero-cost personal chats.
• For Budget Control: International calling cards allow you to prepay a set amount, helping you manage spending. However, be aware of potential extra charges per call.

Comparing the per-minute rates, any connection fees, subscription costs (for plans or VoIP services), and included features is key to identifying the most cost-effective option for your specific situation.tly call France from the UK. Designed to simplify international calling with high-quality VoIP services, Telfon is an excellent option for individuals and businesses alike.

Telfon: A Powerful Option for UK to France Calls

For those seeking a reliable, flexible, and cost-effective way to call France from the UK, Telfon offers a strong solution using VoIP technology. It is designed for both individuals and businesses making international calls frequently.

Telfon leverages high-quality infrastructure to provide clear call connections at competitive rates. It goes beyond basic calling with features suitable for various needs.

Key Benefits of Using Telfon:

• Low International Rates: Make calls to France without worrying about high costs.
• Virtual Numbers: Easily get UK and even French virtual phone numbers to manage local presence and separate contacts.
• Integrated Communication: Support for SMS and WhatsApp integration helps you reach contacts through various channels.
• Useful Features: Tools like call recording, voicemail-to-text, and call forwarding improve communication efficiency.
• Business Ready: Features like CRM integrations, user management, and analytics are available for business users.

Choosing Telfon gives you access to a comprehensive platform that simplifies international communication and provides valuable tools alongside affordable calling.

How to Dial France from the UK: Step-by-Step

Here is the precise dialing sequence you need to follow when calling France from the UK:

Step 1: Dial the UK Exit Code.

This code tells your phone system you are making an international call.

Dial: 00

Step 2: Dial the France Country Code.

This code directs your call to France.

Dial: 33

Step 3: Dial the French Area Code or Mobile Prefix (without the leading 0).

Find the specific area code for a landline number or the 6/7 prefix for a mobile number. Crucially, omit the initial ‘0’ that is used when dialing within France.

Step 4: Dial the Remaining Local Number.

Enter the rest of the digits of the French phone number.

Following these steps ensures your call is routed correctly to France.

Expert Tips for Better International Calls

Maximize the quality and efficiency of your calls to France with these tips:

1. Ensure a Strong Internet Connection: If using a VoIP service or calling app, a stable, high-speed internet connection (Wi-Fi or 4G/5G) is vital for clear audio and to avoid dropped calls.
2. Consider Off-Peak Hours: Some services or plans may offer lower rates during specific off-peak times. Check your provider’s details to potentially save money.
3. Use a Headset: For important calls, especially business ones, using a good quality headset can significantly improve audio clarity and reduce background noise.
4. Double-Check the Number: Before dialing, always confirm the French phone number and the correct format (especially dropping the leading 0 after the country code).
5. Choose the Right Tool for the Job: Use a reliable service like a virtual phone system for business calls or frequent communication. Use messaging apps for casual chats with friends and family where connection quality is less critical.

Applying these tips can make your calling experience smoother and more cost-effective.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are answers to some common questions about calling France from the UK.

Q1: What is the cheapest way to call France from the UK?
A: For frequent calls, VoIP services like Telfon usually offer the lowest per-minute rates. For occasional personal calls between app users, messaging apps like WhatsApp are free. The overall cheapest method depends on your calling volume and needs.

Q2: How do I dial a French mobile number from the UK?
A: Dial the UK exit code (00), followed by the France country code (33), then the French mobile number starting with 6 or 7, without the leading 0. For example: 00 33 6 XX XX XX XX.

Q3: Can I use my UK mobile phone to call France?
A: Yes, you can call France using your UK mobile. However, standard international roaming rates are often very high. It’s usually much cheaper to use an international calling add-on from your provider, a calling app, or a VoIP service.

Q4: Is calling France from the UK included in my UK mobile plan?
A: Usually, no. Standard UK mobile plans typically only cover calls within the UK. You will likely need to purchase an international calling add-on or use an alternative service like VoIP or a calling app.

Q5: What’s the difference between a virtual phone system and a regular phone line for international calls?
A: A regular phone line (PSTN) uses physical infrastructure and traditional carriers, often resulting in higher international rates. A virtual phone system (VoIP) uses the internet to transmit calls, allowing for lower costs and often providing more advanced digital features like app-based calling, virtual numbers, and integrations.

Conclusion

Calling France from the UK is straightforward once you understand the correct dialing format, the time difference, and the various calling methods available. By exploring options like virtual phone systems, mobile add-ons, calling cards, and messaging apps, you can find a solution that fits your budget and communication needs.

For those who make frequent calls, whether for business or to stay in close touch with loved ones, virtual phone systems offer a cost-effective and feature-rich solution. Regardless of the method you choose, ensuring you have the right number and dial correctly will help you connect seamlessly across the Channel.