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Few holiday destinations are as family-friendly as France, the most visited country in the world with 100 million tourist arrivals a year.
However, désolé, you have still been on vacation there, all wrong.
As? He’s been making mistakes when ordering wine, ordering the wrong condiments, and greeting French people in a way that makes their hair stand on end. To name just a handful of missteps.
But don’t panic, because here three French experts reveal how to get along with the French on holiday, with a handy guide to the unspoken rules you need to know.
Learn the basics of the language.
Don’t expect everyone to speak English.
Sophie Vignoles, French expert on the language learning platform Babbelexplains: ‘The biggest faux pas tourists make in France is assuming that everyone speaks English or expecting locals to speak it immediately.
‘While many French people speak English, it is considered good manners to start a conversation in French, even if it is just with “Bonjour”…’
Simon Richards, founder of a luxury villa rental company Holidays in Provencewho has lived in France since 2008, adds: “Learning a few key phrases when dining in a restaurant can make your reception less cold.” Use polite terms like “puis-je avoir… (puis-je avoir…)?” when ordering your dishes, or “l’addition, s’il vous plaît (the bill, please)” at the end of your meal. ‘
Use greetings correctly
MailOnline spoke to three experts from France to find out all the unspoken rules tourists need to know. Including whether it is okay to wear a beret

Make sure you use public transportation or walk, like the locals do, instead of taking taxis.
Sophie says: ‘A simple “bonjour” or “bonsoir” accompanied by a smile when entering a shop or restaurant or when asking for directions will go a long way. Equally important is the farewell: remember to always say “au revoir” when leaving a store or ending an interaction.
‘Keep the time of day in mind: “bonjour” means good day, so you should never say it at night. The general rule is to switch to “bonsoir” after 6 pm.’
Show respect to locals
The French highly value courtesy and proper etiquette, especially when it comes to greetings.
Sophie explains: ‘A common mistake many tourists make is using overly familiar greetings, such as “salut” (hello), in situations where formalities are expected.
‘La bise’ – the kiss – is a sacred aspect of French greeting culture
“In France, at first it is customary to address people in a more formal way. To make a good impression, you should use “monsieur” or “madame” when addressing someone, especially when interacting with strangers or older people.’
Learn to do ‘la bise’ (the kiss)
‘”La bise” – the kiss – is a sacred aspect of French greeting culture, even among men. But it can be a source of confusion for tourists, reveals Sophie.
She explains: ‘As a general rule, we kiss people we know, friends, family, acquaintances and sometimes even co-workers. A handshake is a safe alternative when meeting someone for the first time.’
Be aware of pedestrian etiquette
Walking and using public transportation is mandatory.
Gavin, company director in coastswarns: ‘Be sure to stay out of the cycle lanes and stand on the right side of escalators, allowing others to pass on the left.
‘To help integrate more generally, make sure you use public transport or walk instead of taxis. Many of France’s major cities have metro systems and in smaller cities you can also find trams and buses. Many locals, however, prefer to walk and enjoy all the sights.’
Don’t rush your meal in a restaurant

‘When it comes to meals, don’t feel like you need to rush. In France there is much more emphasis on savoring the food and enjoying the company,” says Gavin.
Sophie reveals: ‘French dining etiquette is more formal than in many other countries. For example, don’t rush to eat: eating is considered an experience to be savored. Expect to wait a little longer between courses and don’t expect to receive your invoice immediately after requesting it.’
Never ask for ketchup
Sophie explains: “Avoid asking for ketchup for each dish or splitting the bill in complicated ways – these are not common practices in France.”
Respect the coffee culture of France
Avoid cafes that scream “tourist.”
Gavin says: ‘Mastering the art of café culture is an important part of French life. The French take their coffee very seriously and usually drink it in the form of espresso.
‘Ordering a Venti iced vanilla latte will immediately scream “tourist!” Enjoy your coffee at a leisurely pace sitting in a cafe, watching the world go by.’
Never put ice in your wine.
“It’s no surprise that the French have some unspoken rules when it comes to wine,” explains Simon. ‘Never put ice on it; Adding ice to wine is a faux pas in most restaurants.

No! Adding ice to wine is a faux pas at most restaurants
“If you have no choice, many bartenders in France are very well versed in their selection, so if you are unsure, asking the sommelier for a suggestion is a smart way to get local information on an option you may not try and at the same time at the same time respect the bartender.
“And finally, always trust local wines: quality comes from regional wines, so ordering the local specialty is always a safe (and smart) option over an imported one.”
Plan opening hours
Sophie warns: ‘Many tourists are caught off guard by the strict adherence to certain opening hours in France, especially in shops and restaurants.
«Lunch breaks, or the déjeuner break, are often sacred and many establishments close for a few hours in the afternoon. Plan ahead to avoid frustration.’
Gavin adds: “Dinner time in France usually starts around 8pm, so don’t expect restaurants to open for lunch at 5pm.” So make sure you plan snacks accordingly!’
Know the unspoken rules
A little more finesse and reserve is required when you are away from home.
Sophie reveals: ‘Talking loudly, eating on the go or smiling at strangers can make you stand out as a tourist in France. The French tend to value discretion and reserve, especially in public spaces.
‘Pay attention to how locals interact in cafes or on public transport to get a better idea of the local rhythm. By following these tips, you’ll be able to leave the “tourist” label behind and immerse yourself more fully in French culture.’
And finally, Simón warns: “For the love of God, no berets!”