10 Faux Pas to Avoid in France

1. Skipping the “Bonjour”

Always greet people when entering a shop, office, or even an elevator. Not saying “Bonjour” is seen as rude and dismissive.

2. Using “tu” instead of “vous”

Start with the formal “vous” when speaking to someone you don’t know well. Using “tu” too soon can feel overly familiar or disrespectful.

3. Arriving exactly on time to a dinner party

In France, it’s polite to arrive about 10–15 minutes late. Showing up right on time can make your host feel rushed.

4. Talking loudly in public

The French value discretion. Loud conversations in restaurants or on public transport can be seen as disruptive.

5. Cutting salad with a knife

Salad leaves are meant to be folded with a fork. Cutting them suggests they’re too tough — which may insult the chef.

6. Oversharing personal details

French people tend to be more reserved. Asking intimate questions or sharing too much too soon can feel intrusive.

7. Assuming everyone speaks English

It’s courteous to ask, “Do you speak English?” rather than assuming. A little French effort goes a long way.

8. Showing off wealth

Talking about money or flaunting luxury items is frowned upon. Modesty is more appreciated than flashiness.

9. Using Paris as a synonym for France

France is diverse. Equating the entire country with Paris can come off as ignorant or dismissive of regional cultures.

10. Complaining about France to French people

 

 

If you don’t want people staring at you strangely

 

1. Cutting your salad? Sacrilege! Fold it with your fork like a civilized rebel. Otherwise, the chef might cry into his vinaigrette.

2. Upside-down baguette = bad omen Always crust-side up. Unless you’re trying to summon the ghost of a disgruntled baker.

3. “Garçon!” is a fatal error This isn’t a vintage movie. Say “Monsieur” or “Madame” — you’ll earn instant respect.

4. “Tu” too soon? You lose. Start with “Vous.” “Tu” comes later… usually after wine and cheese at someone’s house.

 5. Your French is wobbly? Perfect! The French love when you try. And your accent? It might just melt hearts.

 6. Too close = too weird Keep a little distance and speak softly. Unless you want to be mistaken for a tourist with a megaphone.

 7. Tipping is like dessert: not required, but delightful A few euros for great service and you’ll be treated like royalty.

8. Forgetting “Bonjour” = social crime Always greet. Even the café cat will judge you if you skip it.

 9. “Merci beaucoup” ≠ “Merci beau… cul” Say it clearly. Or risk making the baker blush.

 10. Watch the locals, not just the Eiffel Tower They’ve got the codes. Copy them, and you’ll fit right in.

 Enjoy your stay, eat too much cheese, and most importantly… have fun the French way! And if you mess up? No worries. A smile fixes everything.