If you find yourself in need of a Covid-19 test in Paris, you have many options to choose from.
Antigen (also known as lateral flow) tests administered by a pharmacy
These are rapid tests which provide a result within 15 to 30 minutes. They are widely available and the cheaper option.
Most pharmacies across the city offer antigen tests without an appointment.
If you do not have French health insurance, the test will cost between 22 and 30 euros. If you do not have French health insurance, but you do have a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) or a the new UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC), present this at the pharmacy as you may be eligible for a reduced rate.
There are also many testing tents (see above photo) in main streets which provide tests with out appointments. Often you will scan a QR code and fill in a form whilst waiting in line for the test.
Self-administered antigen (lateral flow) test
Known as an autotest in French, these types of tests are sold in pharmacies and are widely available.
Sold individually for 5 euros or in kits of 5 tests for around 20 euros, these tests are the cheapest options currently available if you do not have French health insurance.
You will not receive a certificate with this type of test and so they cannot be used if you intend to travel.
PCR tests administered by a pharmacy or laboratory
PCR tests take longer to receive a result (around 24 hours) and are more expensive but may be required for travel to certain countries and are considered more accurate.
These tests are carried out by medical professionals in laboratories, private clinics or testing centres.
PCR tests cost from €44, and up to €80. If you do not have French health insurance, but you do have a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) or a the new UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC), present this at the pharmacy as you may be eligible for a reduced rate.
The French government have a website allowing you to search for testing locations near you: https://www.sante.fr/cf/centres-depistage-covid/departement-75-paris.html
Select your departement (75 for Paris), your test type (RT-PCR or Antigenique) and open to everyone (ouverts à tout public)
You will be able to see a drop down from each testing location giving details such as address, opening hours, and whether they require an appointment (uniquement avec rendez-vous) or not (sans rendez-vous).
They will likely provide a website or phone number to book an appointment, if required.
Alternatively, you can book a PCR test through the Doctolib app or on Doctolib.fr
Log in or create an account and then search for dépistage PCR or dépistage antigénique and search for test appointment slots near you. It will show a screen like the one below.
Image: Cecile D. Sortir à Paris.