Few holiday destinations are as familiar as France – the world’s most visited country with 100million tourist arrivals a year.
Yet, désolé, you’ve still been holidaying there all wrong.
How? You’ve been making mistakes when ordering wine, asking for the incorrect condiments and greeting French people in a way that raises their hackles. To name but a mere handful of faux pas.
But don’t panic, because here three French experts reveal how to get along with the French while on holiday, with a handy guide to the unspoken rules you need to know.
Learn the basics of the language
Do not expect everyone to speak English.
Sophie Vignoles, France expert at the language learning platform Babbel, explains: ‘The biggest faux pas tourists make in France is assuming everyone speaks English or expecting locals to switch to it immediately.
‘While many French people do speak English, it’s considered polite to start a conversation in French even if it’s just with, “Bonjour”… ’
Simon Richards, the founder of luxury villa rental company Provence Holidays, who has lived in France since 2008, adds: ‘Learning a few key phrases when out dining at a restaurant can make your reception less frosty. Use polite terms like “puis-je avoir… (can I have… )?”, when ordering your dishes, or “l’addition, s’il vous plaît (the bill, please)”, at the end of your meal.’
Use greetings correctly
MailOnline has spoken to three France experts to find out all the unspoken rules that tourists need to know. Including whether it’s ok to wear a beret
Make sure to use public transport or walk, as the locals do, as opposed to taking taxis
Sophie says: ‘A simple “bonjour” or “bonsoir” accompanied by a smile when entering a shop or restaurant or asking for directions will go a long way. Equally important is the farewell – remember to always say “au revoir” when leaving a shop or ending an interaction.
‘Be mindful of the time of day – “bonjour” means good day so you should never say it in the evening. The general rule of thumb is to switch to “bonsoir” after 6pm.’
Show respect to locals
The French place high value on politeness and proper etiquette – especially when it comes to greetings.
Sophie explains: ‘A common mistake that many tourists make is using overly familiar greetings, like “salut” (hi), in situations where formalities are expected.
‘La bise’ – the kiss – is a sacred aspect of French greeting culture
‘In France, it’s customary to address people more formally at first. To make a good impression, you should use “monsieur” or “madame” when addressing someone, especially when you’re interacting with strangers or older individuals.’
Learn to do ‘la bise’ (the kiss)
‘”La bise” – the kiss – is a sacred aspect of French greeting culture, including among men. But it can be a source of confusion for tourists, reveals Sophie.
She explains: ‘As a general rule of thumb, we kiss people we know, friends, family, acquaintances and sometimes even work colleagues. A handshake is a safe alternative when meeting someone for the first time.’
Be aware of pedestrian etiquette
Walking and taking public transport is de rigueur.
Gavin, company director at eshores, warns: ‘Make sure you stay out of the bike lanes and stand on the right-hand side of escalators, allowing for others to pass on the left.
‘To help blend in more in general, make sure to use public transport or walk as opposed to taxis. Many of the major cities within France operate metro systems and in smaller cities you can also find trams and buses. Many locals, however, prefer to walk and take in all the sights.’
Don’t rush your food at a restaurant
‘When it comes to meals, don’t feel like you need to rush your food. In France, much more emphasis is placed on savouring the food and enjoying the company,’ says Gavin
Sophie reveals: ‘French dining etiquette is more formal than in many other countries. For instance, don’t rush a meal – eating is considered an experience to savour. Expect to wait a little bit longer between courses and don’t expect to receive the bill straight after you ask for it.’
Never ask for ketchup
Sophie explains: ‘Avoid asking for ketchup for every dish or splitting the bill in complicated ways – these aren’t standard practices in France.’
Respect France’s coffee culture
Avoid the coffees that scream ‘tourist’.
Gavin says: ‘Mastering the art of coffee culture is an important part of French life. The French take their coffee very seriously and usually drink it in the form of an espresso.
‘Ordering a venti iced vanilla latte will immediately scream “tourist!” Enjoy your coffee at a leisurely pace sitting at a cafe, watching the world go by.’
Never put ice in your wine
‘Unsurprisingly, the French have a few unspoken rules when it comes to wine,’ explains Simon. ‘Never put ice in it – adding ice to wine is a faux pas at most restaurants.
Non! Adding ice to wine is a faux pas at most restaurants
‘If stuck for choice, many bartenders in France are very well versed with their selection, and so if unsure, asking for the sommelier’s suggestion is a smart way to get local insight into a choice you might not try while also paying respect to the bartender.
‘And lastly, always trust the local wines – quality comes from regional wines, so asking for the local speciality is always a safe (and savvy) choice above an imported one.’
Plan for opening hours
Sophie warns: ‘Many tourists are caught off guard by France’s strict adherence to certain hours, especially shops and restaurants.
‘Lunch breaks, or la pause déjeuner, are often sacred, with many establishments closing for a few hours in the afternoon. Plan ahead to avoid frustration.’
Gavin adds: ‘Dinnertime in France usually starts around 8pm, so don’t be expecting restaurants to be opening for food at 5pm. So make sure you plan snacks accordingly!’
Know the unspoken rules
A bit more finesse and reserve is required when out and about.
Sophie reveals: ‘Loud talking, eating on the go, or smiling at strangers can make you stand out as a tourist in France. The French often value discretion and reserve, especially in public spaces.
‘Pay attention to how locals interact in cafes or on public transport to get a better sense of the local rhythm. By following these tips, you can move past the “tourist” label and immerse yourself more fully in French culture.’
And finally – Simon warns: ‘For the love of God – no berets!’
