French Etiquette

Planning a trip to France should also include introducing yourself to some of the very formal rules about manners and etiquette practiced by the French. Doing so will positively impact your interaction with those who will assist you in hotels, restaurants, museums, shopping and generally throughout your visit. Speaking fluent French is not required, but the French appreciate any attempt and will usually cheerfully respond to you in English.

Greetings are most important! Always, always, always say bonjour (hello) to begin any interaction and wait for the individual to respond back. Although bonjour is satisfactory, a good practice is to say bonjour madame or bonjour monsieur, depending on the situation.

After 6PM, bonjour becomes bonsoir (good evening).

It is always polite to say merci (thank you) and often you will hear merci beaucoup (thank you very much) spoken. Try it! The reaction will work in your favor.

When leaving, remember to say au revoir (goodbye) or if evening, say bonsoir. Again, adding madame or monsieur to your goodbye is considered respectful and polite.

When leaving an establishment, the French may respond by wishing you bonne journée (have a nice day) or other variations that include bon après-midi (have a nice afternoon), bon fin de l’après-midi (enjoy the rest of the afternoon), or bon weekend (have a nice weekend). Your standard reply should be merci (thank you) and it is also polite to say vous aussi (you too).

When talking to a stranger, you are expected to use the formal form of vois (you) rather than the familiar form of tu or toi. You should not address a person by their first name until you are invited to do so, but rather address them with madame or monsieur and if known, followed by their last name.

If you need to ask a stranger for directions always begin with Excusez-moi (excuse me) and again add madame or monsieur and continue with bonjour.

It is customary for the French to shake hands whenever meeting someone for the first time. The handshake is a firm grip with one motion, rather than the customary pumping handshake.

With familiar acquaintances, the French greet with a kiss on the cheek and the number of kisses varies with region and situation. Don’t take the first step, but be ready to follow the lead of the French person during the greeting.

Bon appétit! Lunch is an important meal for the French and post offices, banks and some businesses close in the middle of the day for the lunch break. With the exception of brasseries and cafes, most restaurants do not open for dinner until 7:00PM. Meals are served in a leisurely fashion and usually exceed one hour unless you are eating at a fast food restaurant. (Yes, there are plenty of McDonald’s in France.)

Tipping is rarely expected as the restaurant tab includes a service charge. However, if you receive exceptional service, it is customary to leave an additional modest amount (1 or 2 euros).