Saying "Bonjour"
When you enter a shop or café, or approach someone with a question, greet them first: "Bonjour" during the day, "Bonsoir" in the evening. Without a greeting, a request sounds abrupt.
Local guide
Local guide
Many awkward moments on a trip happen not because of the language, but because of unfamiliar local habits. This section covers the everyday etiquette that will help you feel more at ease in Paris, safety tips and a few French phrases worth learning before you go.
A single "Bonjour" as you walk into a shop does more for good service than fluent French.
How this section works: it collects the rules and habits travellers encounter every day, and simple steps to take if something goes wrong. We do not recommend specific venues, guides or services.
Everyday etiquette
Small habits that make life in the city noticeably easier.
Tipping
In France, service in restaurants is included in the price by law (service compris). Tipping is optional, if you were happy with the service.
Sundays and public holidays
On Sundays and public holidays, some shops and offices have reduced hours or are closed. It's best to plan important shopping and errands for weekdays.
Markets and bakeries
Street markets and bakeries (boulangeries) are part of everyday Parisian life. Market days vary, so check them in advance; wait your turn in the queue and greet the seller.
Water
In cafés and restaurants you can ask for a jug of tap water — "une carafe d'eau". The city also has public drinking fountains.
Sales
Seasonal sales (soldes) in France take place twice a year, in winter and summer. The dates are set officially and announced in advance.
Safety and help
What to do if something goes wrong.
The 112 number
The single emergency number in the European Union is 112. Use it to call for help in a life-threatening situation, a fire or a crime.
Pickpockets
Stay alert on the metro, at sights and in queues. Keep your bag closed and don't leave your phone on a café table.
Lost documents
If your passport is lost or stolen, report it to the police and contact your country's embassy or consulate: they will advise you on how to get home. Keep copies of your documents separate from the originals.
Insurance
Take out medical insurance for the whole of your trip and keep the details to hand. If you need a visa, check the insurance requirements with the French embassy or consulate.
Useful French phrases
- Bonjour / Bonsoir — Hello / Good evening
- Merci beaucoup — Thank you very much
- Excusez-moi — Excuse me (to get someone's attention or to get past)
- Parlez-vous anglais ? — Do you speak English?
- L'addition, s'il vous plaît — The bill, please
- Où est la station de métro ? — Where is the metro station?
Related sections
- Trip planning
How to plan a trip to Paris step by step: documents, season, accommodation, transport, itinerary.
- Walking routes
Four walking routes: Île de la Cité and the Latin Quarter, the Marais, Montmartre, and along the Seine from the Louvre to the Eiffel Tower.
- Traveller questions
Answers to common traveller questions, plus the article catalogue.
Sources
- Paris je t'aime (Paris tourist office)
- European Commission
- Encyclopædia Universalis
Information is correct as of the date of preparation. Fares, timetables, museum opening hours and entry rules change, so check them on official websites before you travel.