13 Essential French Phrases Every Tourist Should Know Before Visiting France
Planning a trip to France can feel overwhelming, especially if you don’t speak the language. Learning a few key phrases will help you navigate restaurants, shops, and streets with confidence.
Locals appreciate when visitors make an effort to speak French, even if it’s just a simple greeting. Mastering a handful of expressions can turn your vacation from stressful to spectacular!
1. Bonjour – Hello
Walking into any French establishment without greeting people is considered rude. Saying bonjour opens doors, literally and figuratively, making locals far more willing to help you.
Whether entering a bakery, museum, or taxi, this simple word sets a positive tone. Pronunciation tip: say “bon-ZHOOR” with a soft J sound like the S in “measure.”
2. Merci beaucoup – Thank you very much
Gratitude goes a long way in French culture. Simply saying merci is nice, but adding beaucoup shows extra appreciation and respect.
Use it after receiving help, getting your meal, or when someone holds a door open. Say it like “mare-SEE bo-KOO” and watch faces light up with warmth and friendliness every single time.
3. S’il vous plaît – Please
Politeness is practically a requirement in France, not just a suggestion. Adding s’il vous plaît to any request instantly makes you sound respectful and cultured.
Order coffee, ask for directions, or request the menu using this phrase. Pronounce it “see voo PLAY” and you’ll notice how much more helpful people become immediately.
4. Où sont les toilettes ? – Where is the bathroom?
Everyone needs to find a restroom eventually, especially after enjoying French wine and coffee. Knowing how to ask saves you from awkward miming and confused looks.
Say “oo son lay twa-LET” to ask this important question. Most cafes require you to be a customer before using facilities, so order something small first.
5. Combien ça coûte ? – How much does it cost?
Shopping in France becomes easier when you can ask about prices confidently. Markets, boutiques, and street vendors all appreciate when you inquire in French first.
Pronounce it “com-bee-AN sa COOT” to get price information quickly. Sometimes vendors won’t display prices clearly, making this phrase absolutely essential for budget-conscious travelers everywhere.
6. Je ne parle pas bien français – I don’t speak French well
Honesty is refreshing, especially when you’re struggling with pronunciation. Admitting your language limitations often encourages locals to speak slower or switch to simpler words.
Say “zhuh nuh PARL pa bee-AN fron-SAY” with a friendly smile. Most French people will appreciate your effort and become more patient and understanding throughout the conversation.
7. Parlez-vous anglais ? – Do you speak English?
Sometimes your French vocabulary runs out completely, and you need a backup plan. Asking if someone speaks English in French shows respect before switching languages.
Pronounce it “par-lay voo on-GLAY” to inquire politely. Many younger French people and hospitality workers speak English well, but always ask in French first as a courtesy.
8. L’addition, s’il vous plaît – The check, please
French waiters won’t rush you out or bring the bill without being asked. Dining is meant to be leisurely, so you must request the check when ready to leave.
Say “la-dee-see-ON, see voo PLAY” to signal you’re finished. Without this phrase, you might wait forever while your waiter respects your dining experience.
9. Où est la gare ? – Where is the train station?
Trains connect France beautifully, making gares essential landmarks for travelers. Asking for directions in French usually gets clearer, more helpful responses than speaking English.
Pronounce it “oo ay la GAR” when seeking the station. You can substitute gare with other locations like musée (museum) or hôtel to ask about different destinations easily.
10. Un café, s’il vous plaît – A coffee, please
Coffee culture runs deep in France, and ordering properly enhances your experience. A simple café means espresso, so specify if you want something different like café crème.
Say “ahn ka-FAY, see voo PLAY” to order smoothly. Cafes are perfect spots for people-watching, and ordering in French makes you feel like a true Parisian regular.
11. Je voudrais… – I would like…
Mastering this phrase unlocks countless ordering possibilities in shops, restaurants, and hotels. It’s more polite than simply naming what you want without any introduction.
Pronounce it “zhuh voo-DRAY” followed by your request. Try “je voudrais une baguette” at bakeries or “je voudrais une chambre” when booking hotel rooms for smooth transactions.
12. Excusez-moi – Excuse me
Getting someone’s attention politely is crucial in crowded French cities. Use this phrase before asking questions, squeezing past people, or apologizing for minor mistakes.
Say “ex-kew-zay-MWA” to sound courteous and respectful. It works perfectly when you accidentally bump someone, need directions, or want to call a waiter without seeming demanding or rude.
13. C’est délicieux – It’s delicious
Complimenting the food makes chefs and servers incredibly happy. French cuisine deserves praise, and expressing your enjoyment in French creates wonderful connections.
Pronounce it “say day-lee-see-UH” with genuine enthusiasm. Use it in restaurants, at dinner parties, or when sampling treats at markets to show appreciation and make memorable impressions.
