France possesses shoulder-length blond hair and blue eyes that occasionally appear violet, complemented by a slight amount of facial hair he cultivates as a "big brother" symbol representing the Tarn Gorges. His typical attire features a long blue coat, a matching capelet, red pants, and brown boots, frequently accessorized with a rose. His design evolved from shorter hair in early webcomics to longer, wavier styles in later volumes; he originally wore white spats over his boots, a detail later omitted. He stands 175 cm tall, described as lanky yet muscular "in the right places."

His personality centers on an ardent love for beauty, culture, and romance. Hobbies include fashion design, sketching, agriculture, singing, and touring Parisian art museums and boutiques. He takes immense pride in French cuisine, wine, and language, refusing to learn English and declaring French the "language of love." He exhibits a flamboyant and affectionate demeanor, frequently making flirtatious propositions toward other nations and humans, though he respects firm rejections, believing "love should never be forced." He harbors an intense, centuries-long rivalry with England, often arguing over trivial matters, yet they collaborate effectively during crises. Historically formidable in warfare, he shifted focus to tourism and cultural appeal after Napoleon Bonaparte's death. He references his age through complaints about physical aches but insists he remains youthful, rejecting the "grandpa" label. Fears encompass computers, Germany, Russia, Switzerland, Turkey, and England's anger, though he occasionally uses technology out of necessity and plays video games with Germany and England.

Born before England, France was initially dominant but became vulnerable to conquest after Napoleon's era. He received temporary aid from Jeanne d'Arc, though her early death led to mockery. His reliance on allies for victories culminated in joining the Allied Forces during World War II. He views immortality as a burden, observing human transience in strips like "Though I May Depart, You Shall Remain," where he reflects on outliving humans, and "A bientôt!," where he believes those "toyed with by history" reincarnate into happier lives. This perspective underscores a nuanced solitude beneath his extroverted facade.

Relationships include treating Monaco as a dependent younger sister and raising Seychelles in the "Gakuen Hetalia" universe, though he inappropriately gropes her in mainstream content. Italy Veneziano regards him as "France nii-chan," and France displays protectiveness toward him, defending him against rumors. Spain shares a bond forged through shared history, though Spain remains oblivious to France's perversity. France obsessively admires Austria's beauty, yet their relationship remains contentious. His dynamic with England combines deep-seated rivalry with mutual respect, including a historical marriage proposal for political convenience. He initially feared Germany but later spends leisure time with him, reflecting improved relations.

Key story arcs involve his exclusion from Allied meetings triggering reflections on past military glory, attempts to charm human women with mixed results, and participation in events like the April Fools blog, where he shares revealing photos of other nations but adheres to boundaries when rejected. His birthday on July 14 corresponds to Bastille Day, symbolizing French national identity. Human names like "Francis Bonnefoy" (meaning "Frenchman" and "good faith") were assigned, with "Jean Epine" considered initially.