France
Western Europe · French · Euro
Lead with bonjour, keep your voice down, and do not treat the waiter like a servant.
Today in France
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5 phrases you need in France
- HelloBonjourbohn-ZHOOR
- GoodbyeAu revoiroh ruh-VWAHR
- PleaseS'il vous plaîtseel voo PLEH
- Thank youMercimehr-SEE
- Excuse meExcusez-moiex-koo-zay-MWAH
The Trovlr app drills all 8 France phrases with audio, Duolingo-style. Get the app →
Know before you go
etiquette
Say 'Bonjour, madame' or 'Bonjour, monsieur' before anything else, in every shop and bakery — skipping the greeting marks you as rude before you've asked your question.
tipping
Service is included in menu prices by law ('service compris') — leave a euro or two for a great meal, and skip the 20% American math entirely.
transport
Book TGV fares early on SNCF Connect for roughly half the walk-up price. In Paris, get a Navigo Easy card — paper metro tickets are being phased out.
scams
Around Montmartre and the Eiffel Tower, the petition clipboard, the friendship bracelet, and the dropped gold ring are all the same scam with different props — keep walking.
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