15 Most Important French Customs Every Traveler Needs to Know
Before you step off the plane and into café-lined streets or countryside charm, it helps to know what’s considered normal or off. French culture is full of unspoken rules that shape daily life. Knowing them ahead of time can turn awkward moments into smooth ones and help you blend in like you belong.
Say “Bonjour” When You Enter a Shop or Restaurant
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Skip the “bonjour” (hello) and you might get the coldest baguette of your life. In France, walking into a shop without greeting the staff is considered rude. Always start with a warm “Bonjour, messieurs et mesdames!” (Hello ladies and gentlemen) to earn friendly, respectful service.
Try a Few French Phrases With the French People You Meet
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You don’t need to speak fluent French, but tossing out a “Je voudrais ça” (I would like that) or “merci” works magic. It shows effort, earns smiles, and sometimes better service. Locals will appreciate it far more than assuming everyone speaks English. Even in Paris, a tiny bit of French breaks the ice way faster than a grin.
Always Dress Your Best
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Wearing sweatpants in Paris is a one-way ticket to standing out—in the worst way. The French favor a clean, polished look, even for everyday errands. Skip the yoga pants and opt for something more refined. A little effort in your outfit goes a long way in blending in stylishly.
When in Doubt, Throw On a Scarf
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If you’re feeling underdressed, a scarf can instantly upgrade your outfit to French-approved. Once temps dip below 60, scarves start popping up on everyone. They’re practically a national accessory and not fashion extras.
Only Smile When You Really Mean It
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Grinning at strangers on the street in France is weirder than warm. Smiling is reserved for actual interactions, like thanking a server or greeting someone properly. Too much smiling can seem fake or even flirty. So, unless you’re mid-conversation, save that megawatt beam for a moment that earns it.
Keep Your Voice Down While Having Conversations
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Loud chatter in public is a dead giveaway that you’re not from around here. In France, speaking softly—especially in public transport or cafes—is a sign of respect. Locals keep things hushed, even during heated convos. To blend in, keep your voice low and let the surroundings know you’re not trying to dominate the room.
Never Haggle in Stores
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Don’t attempt to ask for a discount in a chic Parisian boutique. Haggling in French stores is a no-go and is seen as pretty rude. Prices are fixed, clearly marked, and non-negotiable. If you’re after a deal, wait for the “les soldes” season in winter or summer.
Don’t Eat While Walking Down the Street
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Walking and munching might feel efficient, but in France, it’s frowned upon—unless you’ve got a fresh baguette in hand. Locals believe food deserves to be savored while seated, and quick bites on the go scream “tourist.”
Order Menu Items As-Is
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Customizing your meal in France is like culinary blasphemy. Chefs here meticulously design each dish, so picking it apart is like critiquing their art. If you’re not into sardines, skip the salade niçoise entirely. Trust the menu, and the kitchen, and taste it as it was meant to be served.
Don’t Expect Ice
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Asking for ice in France? You’ll usually have to request it, and don’t dump it in wine. Ice isn’t automatically served, and wine dilution is a big faux pas. Freezers are less common, and drinks are chilled, not arctic. If you want your drink cold, ask politely… but maybe skip it.
Don’t Worry About Tipping Servers
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In France, tipping isn’t required since service is already included in the bill. Rounding up is appreciated, but there’s no pressure. Meals are meant to be leisurely, so lingering for two or even three hours is normal. There’s no rush to flip the table—dining out is about enjoying every bite and moment.
Leave Your Leftovers Behind
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Doggy bags aren’t a big thing in France. Meals are to be eaten fresh and finished in one sitting. While laws now allow restaurants to offer takeaway containers, many locals still see leftovers as less than ideal. Expect to eat what’s served, as reheating a carefully composed dish later doesn’t fit the French food mindset.
Don’t Expect to See Café au Lait on the Menu
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Ask for a “café crème” at the café if you want that creamy, espresso-based drink. “Café au lait” (milky coffee) is usually reserved for breakfast at home, often served in bowls for dipping tartines. While you’ll be understood, saying “café crème” instantly sounds more local.
Put Your Cell Phone Away in Restaurants
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Phones at the table are a major disruption in France. Mealtime is a sacred social ritual. Keep your phone tucked away and be present. Holding it up on speaker is even worse. French etiquette values good food and even better conversation.
Save Room for Lunch and Dessert
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Lunch is the main event in France, often followed by a lighter dinner and a sweet finish. Multi-course midday meals are common, and skipping dessert feels like skipping the point. You’ll rarely see someone rushing through this part—it’s meant to be enjoyed slowly.
Don’t Order Omelettes for Le Petit-Déjeuner (Breakfast)
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Eggs for breakfast might be your norm, but in France, they’re usually reserved for lunch or dinner. Traditional French mornings start lighter with bread, jam, and coffee. While hotel breakfasts may offer eggs, don’t expect to find them on typical early meal menus. Brunch spots in big cities are the exception, but even that’s relatively new.
Greet Friends and Family the Way French People Do
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Forget the handshake or hug. In France, greeting close friends or family means cheek-to-cheek air kisses—usually two, but sometimes more, depending on the region. Lips don’t touch the skin, but a soft smooch sound and a light brush of the cheek are key.
Know When to Use “Madame” vs. “Mademoiselle”
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Addressing women properly matters in French etiquette. Use “madame” for married women or older ladies, and “mademoiselle” for younger or unmarried women. Although the distinction has sparked debate, it’s still commonly used in polite conversation.
Arrive at Dinner Parties Fashionably Late
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Being on time to a French dinner party means you’re early. Locals typically show up 15 minutes late, so hosts have time to finish prepping. It’s considered more respectful than punctuality. Just don’t try this with your tour group or guide—they’ll expect you right on time. For social events, linger a little before ringing the bell.
Don’t Bring Wine to a Dinner Party
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Bringing wine to a dinner party can undermine your host’s perfectly planned food and wine pairing. Instead, offer high-quality chocolates or perhaps a nice bottle of Champagne, Cognac, or Calvados. This thoughtful gesture shows respect for your host’s careful preparation and avoids unintentionally insulting their well-curated dinner experience.
The Art of Downplaying a Compliment
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In France, modesty wins over enthusiasm when it comes to compliments. Instead of saying “thank you,” expect replies like “This old thing?” or “You’re too kind.” It’s a cultural reflex to stay humble and avoid sounding boastful.
Chivalrous to the End
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French galanterie is alive and well. This extends to opening doors and offering a hand with a coat; men often assist women in small, courteous ways. It’s not meant to patronize but to show traditional respect. These gestures are automatic and warmly received, so don’t be surprised if someone offers help before you even ask.
Talk Politics and Religion
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Unlike in many countries, no topic is too heavy for the French dinner table. Politics, religion, and big ideas are all fair game. These deep discussions are practically expected. Expressing your viewpoint is welcome, as long as it’s done respectfully. Intellectual debate is seen as a social sport and not a conversational risk.
Forget Children’s Menus
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You won’t find chicken nuggets hiding on a French menu. Children eat the same food as adults, just in smaller portions. They grow up tasting goat cheese, pâté, and even escargot. Young diners in France are raised to be little gourmets.
Say No to Plastic Bags
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Single-use plastic bags are banned in France, so bring your tote or pay extra for a paper or recycled bag. You’ll also be expected to bag your groceries. It’s part of the country’s commitment to reducing waste and embracing reusable options. Even baguettes go in paper sleeves.
France’s April Fools’ Day Pranks Are a Little Fishy
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On April 1, French kids sneakily tape paper fish to unsuspecting backs and shout “Poisson d’avril!” It’s a national tradition dating back centuries. The prank is lighthearted, not outrageous, and tied to old calendar customs. Schools join the fun, bakeries sell fish-shaped treats, and it’s all delightfully silly with no elaborate hoaxes.
Celebrate “Old Maid’s Day” in a Frightfully Fanciful Green Hat
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Every November 25, unmarried women over 25 are gifted flamboyant green or yellow hats in honor of Saint Catherine’s Day. It’s in good fun, often celebrated in workplaces and design schools. Friends cheer them on, hoping they’ll “find a husband.”
Market Day Traditions
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On market days, towns buzz with locals buying fresh produce, cheeses, and meats. Before touching anything, always ask, “Je peux?” and greet vendors with a “Bonjour.” Each market has regional gems—Toulouse has violet-flavored treats; Normandy has rare cheeses.
Sunday Family Gatherings
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Sundays in France include long, leisurely meals with family. Restaurants fill with multiple generations, and shops remain closed so everyone can focus on food and conversation. These gatherings can stretch for hours. If invited to one, bring a thoughtful gift and settle in.
La Rentrée (The Return)
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Every September, France wakes up from its summer slumber. La Rentrée marks the true beginning of the year—schools reopen, businesses restart, and cultural life kicks back in. Expect packed metros, crowded bookstores, and fresh starts.