France is a delight, but there are some unspoken rules and etiquette pitfalls that visitors often stumble into. So here’s your friendly guide to avoiding the label of “that tourist.”
1. Don’t Forget to Greet People
Walking into a shop or café without saying “Bonjour” is basically an act of social warfare. You might not get thrown out, but you’ll definitely get frostier service than the Champagne region in December.
Do this instead: Say “Bonjour” (hello) and “Au revoir” (goodbye). Always. Even in lifts. Especially in lifts.
2. Don’t Shout English and Hope for the Best
French people aren’t being difficult, they just appreciate it when you try. Marching up to someone and blurting “WHERE’S THE METRO?” in loud English isn’t the vibe.
Do this instead: Learn a few polite phrases. Even a simple “Parlez-vous anglais ?” (Do you speak English?) makes a huge difference.
3. Don’t Expect Fast, Smiley Service
French waiters aren’t rude, they’re professionals. They won’t hover or check in every five minutes asking if your meal is “all good”. And they certainly won’t rush you out the door.
Do this instead: Relax, take your time and wave or make eye contact when you’re ready. They’re not ignoring you, they’re letting you enjoy your meal.
4. Don’t Assume All Restaurants Are Open All Day
Lunch service often ends around 2:30pm and many restaurants won’t reopen until dinner at 7 or later. If you roll in at 4 hoping for steak frites, you may be met with a closed door and a closed kitchen.
Do this instead: Embrace the rhythm. Eat when the locals eat, or grab a baguette and picnic between proper meals.
5. Don’t Touch the Produce
In markets or small shops, fondling the fruit like you’re judging a melon beauty pageant is a massive no-no. The vendor usually selects it for you.
Do this instead: Ask politely, or gesture to what you’d like and let them pick. Your plums will survive without your inspection.
6. Don’t Dress Like You’re Hiking the Alps
You don’t need to look like a Vogue model, but you’ll stand out (not in a good way) if you’re wearing cargo shorts, sportswear or a “Paris” souvenir hoodie in Paris.
Do this instead: Go for simple, smart casual. Neutral colours, clean trainers, nothing too loud. Think: effortless, not athletic.
7. Don’t Expect Free Toilets Everywhere
Some public loos cost money. And when nature calls, fumbling around for coins while doing the wee-dance is not ideal.
Do this instead: Keep a few euros in change on you at all times. That emergency 50-cent piece? Priceless.
8. Don’t Stand on the Left Side of the Escalator
This is an easy one: right side = standing, left side = walking. Block the left and you’ll quickly meet the wrath of a commuter running late with a croissant in one hand and rage in the other.
Do this instead: Stand right, walk left. Simple. Safe.
9. Don’t Skip Local Etiquette at Museums or Churches
Tourists flailing selfie sticks and speaking at full volume in Notre-Dame? Non, merci. France takes its cultural spots seriously, treat them with the same respect you’d give your nan’s sitting room.
Do this instead: Keep voices low, phones on silent and shoulders covered in religious spaces.
10. Don’t Expect Everything to Run on Time
Trains, strikes and spontaneous closures are all part of the French experience. Things might be delayed, closed, or just not working that day… and no one will be in much of a rush to fix it.
Do this instead: Go with the flow. You’re in France. Grab a pastry and let it go.
France is all about slowing down, appreciating the moment and savouring life (preferably with cheese). So breathe, be polite, dress a bit nicer than usual and leave the stress at customs. Avoid these classic tourist traps and you’ll not only blend in, you might just fall a little bit in love.
