Is There a Subway in France? (2025 Travel Guide)
August 1, 2025 at 1:47:04 AM

Quick answer: Yes, Subway is alive and well in France. In fact, it’s one of the few American fast food chains that has successfully adapted to the French market. If you’re craving a footlong sub or just want to load up on veggies, you’ll likely find a Subway in most French cities.
Subway’s Presence in France
Subway opened its first French location in the early 2000s and now has over 500 restaurants across the country.
You’ll find Subway in:
- Paris (especially near business districts and train stations)
- Lyon
- Marseille
- Nice
- Lille
- Bordeaux
- Airport terminals
- High-traffic metro stations
It’s one of the few American brands that has expanded rapidly in France—partly due to its healthier image and customizable options.
How to Find One
Use:
- Google Maps (search “Subway Sandwich” + city)
- Uber Eats / Deliveroo (for delivery in major cities)
- Subway France’s website for store locators
They’re usually located near shopping centers, universities, business districts, and train stations—not as common in residential neighborhoods.
What’s on the Menu at Subway France?
Subway France keeps many U.S. favorites while also catering to local tastes. Expect to see:
Familiar:
- Chicken Teriyaki
- Steak & Cheese
- Tuna
- Veggie Delight
- Meatball Marinara (sometimes seasonal)
- Chocolate chip cookies
French Exclusives:
- Raclette cheese as an option
- Baguette-style bread options
- “Savora” mustard sauce (very French)
- Goat cheese and herb sandwiches
- Duck confit (regional locations only)
Bread sizes are usually 15 cm (6”) or 30 cm (footlong)—just like in the U.S., but listed in metric.
Customization Tips
Yes, you can customize—just like in the U.S.
- Choose from several bread types: white, wheat, honey oat, and sometimes French baguette
- Sauces include mayo, mustard, BBQ, and sweet onion
- Veggies are fresh and similar to U.S. stores
- Chips (“crisps”) and bottled drinks available
However, don’t expect huge portion sizes. French portions tend to be more modest, and ingredient swaps may cost extra.
Why Subway Works in France
Unlike many fast food brands, Subway offers a healthier image and fits with the French preference for sandwiches made to order. That made it a more natural fit than deep-fried or heavily processed food chains.
Other reasons for its success:
- Easy to localize (sauce and cheese swaps)
- No fryer or grill needed
- Works in small store spaces
- Can operate near schools and government buildings without zoning issues
Is It Expensive?
Compared to local sandwich shops, yes. But for international food, Subway is reasonably priced.
Expect to pay:
- €6–9 for a 15cm sandwich meal
- €10–13 for a 30cm sandwich, drink, and chips/cookie
Meal deals are posted on menus and digital screens. Subway also participates in student discounts and loyalty cards in some cities.
What to Try If There’s No Subway Nearby
French sandwich culture is actually incredible. Try:
- Jambon beurre (ham + butter on baguette)
- Poulet crudités (chicken with lettuce and tomato)
- Thon mayonnaise (tuna mayo)
- Croque Monsieur (toasted ham and cheese)
- Panini fromage (grilled cheese with French flair)
These are sold everywhere from train stations to bakeries to street food stalls.
Subway Delivery in France
Subway partners with:
- Uber Eats
- Deliveroo
- Just Eat
Menus are usually in both French and English, and customization is built into the ordering app.
Will Subway Keep Growing in France?
Almost certainly. France is Subway’s third-largest European market, behind the U.K. and Germany.
The company continues to:
- Open stores in university areas and train hubs
- Offer seasonal sandwiches with local flair
- Compete with Quick, McDonald’s, and Pret A Manger for lunch crowds
Final Verdict
Is there a Subway in France?
Yes—and it’s thriving.
Whether you’re craving a cold-cut combo or just want a quick bite before a train ride, Subway is a safe, familiar, and widely available option across France. It might not be haute cuisine—but it’ll get the job done, footlong or not.