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I'm a Paris Local and This Is the Most Important Etiquette Tip to Know When Visiting France

  //food-wine.news-articles.net/content/2025/09/14 .. -etiquette-tip-to-know-when-visiting-france.html
  Published in Food and Wine on Sunday, September 14th 2025 at 21:58 GMT by Travel + Leisure
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The Most Important France Etiquette Tip According to Locals – A Practical Guide for Travelers

When you set foot in France, the first thing that hits you is the unmistakable sense of pride that locals take in their culture. The French are known for their impeccable sense of style, refined cuisine, and, perhaps most famously, their etiquette. A recent Travel + Leisure feature titled “The Most Important France Etiquette Tip According to Locals” dives into the subtle rituals that distinguish a good tourist from a true citizen in the eyes of the French. The article is a concise, yet comprehensive primer that can help you navigate everything from the sidewalk cafés of Paris to the wine bars of Bordeaux without tripping over cultural faux‑pas.

1. Greeting Is Everything

The most consistent and heavily emphasized point in the article is the importance of a proper greeting. Locals insist that “Bonjour” (good day) or “Bonsoir” (good evening) is not merely a courtesy—it’s an essential element of daily life. It isn’t enough to greet a stranger on a street; the rule applies to shop clerks, waitstaff, bus drivers, and even the mailman.

The article quotes a Parisian baker who says, “In France, a polite greeting is a form of respect. If you walk into a shop without saying ‘Bonjour’, you’ll feel as if you’re trespassing.”

Quick tip: Pair your greeting with a smile, and if the situation calls for it, add “S'il vous plaît” (please) and “Merci” (thank you) to keep the conversation smooth and friendly.

2. Use the Right Level of Formality

French culture is split between formal (“vous”) and informal (“tu”) forms of address. Locals remind travelers that “vous” should be the default unless you’re explicitly invited to use “tu.” The article notes that many French people take offense at being addressed informally too soon, especially in professional or casual settings such as a café where you’re not yet familiar with the owner.

The Travel + Leisure feature links to an additional piece that discusses the nuances of the “vous” vs. “tu” distinction in depth, offering a table of situations where each form is appropriate.

3. Mind Your Table Manners

Dining is a sacred tradition in France, and the article lists several “must‑dos” and “must‑avoid” rules:

The article also cites a sommelier from Lyon who says, “If you’re not sure how to use the wine glasses, just ask the waiter—they’re happy to demonstrate.”

4. Tipping Culture (Service Included)

A common misconception is that tipping is mandatory in France. The Travel + Leisure article clarifies that the service charge (“service compris”) is included in the bill. However, it’s still customary to leave a small amount—typically a few euros—for outstanding service or for staff that have helped you personally (e.g., a valet or a waiter who went above and beyond).

The article’s “Tipping in France” sidebar (a link to a deeper dive) explains how to handle small amounts: a rounded amount, or a “small €1–€2 tip” is usually sufficient.

5. Dress for the Setting

While French fashion is famously understated, the article points out that dressing appropriately for the context shows respect for local norms. For instance:

• Parisian cafés: Smart casual—clean sneakers, a simple dress, or a neat blazer are fine.
• Wine bars and bistros: A more polished look—think leather jacket, polished shoes, or a simple dress—helps you blend in.
• High-end restaurants: Darker colors, no excessive jewelry, and a slight hint of elegance.

The article links to a style guide that offers outfit inspiration based on specific French regions.

6. Polite Phone Etiquette

In the digital age, many travelers assume they can use their phones freely. The Travel + Leisure feature reminds visitors that in France, especially in quiet cafes or during dinner conversations, the phone should stay on silent or vibrate. Talking loudly on the phone or leaving your device on a table is seen as disrespectful.

A quoted French teacher in Marseille adds, “A polite traveler keeps their phone in their pocket and engages fully with the people around them.”

7. Cultural Sensitivity Beyond the Basics

The article touches on broader cultural themes:

• Respect for personal space: The French often keep a calm and composed demeanor; sudden displays of emotion (especially in public) are frowned upon.
• Avoiding large gestures: Gestures such as pointing or overly exuberant hand movements can come across as aggressive.
• Language etiquette: Even if you only know basic French phrases, using them signals respect and effort. If you’re unsure, a quick “Excusez-moi” followed by a request can work wonders.

Final Thoughts

The Travel + Leisure article ultimately frames its central thesis around a single, powerful idea: Respectful greeting + appropriate politeness + mindful behavior = acceptance in French society. The locals’ consensus is that the simplest act of saying “Bonjour” sets the tone for the entire interaction. When you do that consistently, you are more likely to be seen as a considerate visitor rather than a cultural intruder.

Extra Resources

1. How to Order Coffee in France – A practical guide that explains the nuances of the French coffee menu, from “café solo” to “café crème.”
2. French Etiquette Guide – An in‑depth look at regional variations in politeness, dining etiquette, and public behavior.
3. Fashion for French Travels – A style reference that offers outfit suggestions for each type of French locale (café, wine bar, upscale dining).

These linked resources, combined with the core takeaways above, equip you to travel France with confidence, courtesy, and a little extra flair. Bon voyage!