Cultural Faux Pas to Avoid in France (That Locals Won’t Tell You About)
Avoid embarrassment in France! Learn about subtle cultural faux pas and what NOT to do in French social, dining, and public situations. A must-read for travelers and newcomers.
Introduction: The Unspoken Rules of French Life
Traveling to France or settling in as an expat often conjures images of café terraces, long lunches, artful conversation, and effortless style. But beneath the charm lies a subtle—and sometimes unforgiving—code of conduct. It’s not written on signs or explained in brochures. In fact, many French people won’t even correct you when you break the rules. They might just raise an eyebrow, shift their tone, or quietly mark you as “foreign.”
Cultural faux pas in France aren’t necessarily dramatic—they’re small things that can make or break a first impression. Arrive at someone’s home without a gift? Use overly familiar language? Misuse "bonjour"? These small missteps speak volumes in French culture, where social graces and unspoken etiquette carry weight far beyond what many visitors expect.
Whether you’re planning a vacation, moving to Paris, studying abroad in Lyon, or working remotely from Marseille, understanding these subtleties will help you blend in, connect more deeply, and avoid those awkward moments when something just feels… off.
This guide is your insider look at the real etiquette rules the French may never explain—but absolutely expect you to know.
🇫🇷 13 Cultural Faux Pas to Avoid in France
1. Forgetting to Say “Bonjour”
In France, “bonjour” is not optional. It’s a key to polite interaction and social acknowledgment.
Don’t: Start talking to someone (a cashier, a bus driver, a neighbor) without first saying “bonjour.”
Do: Say “Bonjour” before any interaction, no matter how brief. In the evening, switch to “Bonsoir.”
Why it matters: Failing to say it is seen as rude or even aggressive. Politeness isn’t just appreciated—it’s expected.
2. Overdoing Friendliness Too Soon
Americans, in particular, are known for cheerful small talk and quick friendliness. The French, however, take time to warm up.
Don’t: Overshare personal stories with strangers or act overly familiar right away.
Do: Be polite, measured, and a bit reserved at first. Let closeness develop over time.
Why it matters: Immediate intimacy can come off as insincere or intrusive.
3. Using “Tu” Instead of “Vous”
In English, we have one word for “you.” In French, you must choose between formal (vous) and informal (tu)—and choosing wrong can be offensive.
Don’t: Assume “tu” is appropriate with coworkers, acquaintances, or anyone older than you.
Do: Default to “vous” unless invited to use “tu.” When unsure, ask: “On peut se tutoyer ?”
Why it matters: Using “tu” too early can imply disrespect or over-familiarity.
4. Bringing Wine to a Dinner Party
Yes, really. Bringing wine can be a faux pas in France unless you know your hosts well.
Don’t: Assume bringing wine is the safe option.
Do: Bring flowers, artisanal chocolates, or something from a local shop. If you do bring wine, ask in advance what would complement the meal.
Why it matters: Hosts often carefully select wine to pair with their meal, and your bottle could throw off their plan.
5. Talking About Money or Asking Personal Questions
The French view money as a private matter, and they aren’t keen on small talk that feels nosy.
Don’t: Ask about someone’s salary, rent, or job details.
Do: Stick to neutral topics: culture, travel, food, philosophy.
Why it matters: In France, sophistication includes knowing which topics are off-limits.
6. Assuming Everyone Speaks English
Many French people speak English—but don’t expect them to lead with it.
Don’t: Launch into English without asking.
Do: Begin in French, even if it’s just “Bonjour, excusez-moi, parlez-vous anglais ?”
Why it matters: Trying shows respect. Assuming English is the default does not.
7. Wearing Athleisure in Public
Unless you’re exercising, you won’t see Parisians walking around in leggings and sneakers.
Don’t: Dress like you’re going to the gym—unless you are.
Do: Choose neat, understated clothing. Think fitted jeans, loafers, scarves, and tailored coats.
Why it matters: In France, your outfit speaks before you do.
8. Ordering Coffee Incorrectly
Want a café? Be specific.
Don’t: Ask for a “coffee.” You’ll get puzzled looks.
Do: Know what you want:
Café = espresso
Café crème = like a latte
No milk after breakfast!
Why it matters: Coffee culture is ritualistic. Learn the codes and you’ll be warmly received.
9. Tipping Like in the U.S.
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory.
Don’t: Leave 20%. It’s considered excessive.
Do: Leave a euro or two if service was good. Round up at cafés. For hairdressers or taxis, 5–10% is fine.
Why it matters: Tipping is built into French wages—overtipping can feel awkward or even patronizing.
10. Asking for “To-Go” Boxes
Doggy bags are becoming more common due to food waste initiatives, but they’re still not widespread.
Don’t: Automatically ask to take leftovers home at a restaurant.
Do: If you really want to, ask politely: “Est-ce que je peux emporter le reste ?”
Why it matters: Dining out is about the experience, not quantity.
11. Misinterpreting Silence or Seriousness
French people aren’t always smiling—and that’s okay.
Don’t: Assume someone is upset just because they aren’t chatty or grinning.
Do: Accept that being reserved or quiet is normal, especially in public.
Why it matters: Emotional restraint is often a sign of respect, not rudeness.
12. Eating on Public Transportation
You may be starving, but eating on the metro or bus is a no-no.
Don’t: Snack on smelly or noisy food while commuting.
Do: Wait until you’re at your destination.
Why it matters: Respect for public space is key in French culture.
13. Misunderstanding Bureaucratic Formality
You’ll encounter tons of paperwork in France—and a rigid tone in official communication.
Don’t: Respond to bureaucrats like you’re writing a casual email.
Do: Use formal greetings, polite closing phrases, and proper formatting—even if it’s “just” an email.
Why it matters: Respect for formality = faster, smoother results.
🧠 Bonus Tips for Culturally Fluent Travelers
Don’t touch produce at markets. Let the vendor handle it.
Don’t show up early to a social invitation. 10–15 minutes late is normal.
Don’t smile too much at strangers. It can come off as insincere or odd.
❓FAQs About French Etiquette
Q1: Is it really that bad to forget “bonjour”?
Yes. It’s the single most important word in French social life.
Q2: Should I use “vous” even with young people?
Yes, especially in professional or formal situations. Let them invite “tu.”
Q3: Can I wear sneakers in France?
Yes, but make them fashionable and clean. Avoid athletic looks outside of sport.
Q4: Are there exceptions to tipping rules?
Yes. For exceptional service in upscale places, a larger tip is fine.
Q5: What if I make a faux pas?
Don’t panic. A sincere “désolé” and effort to improve go a long way.
Q6: Can I eat while walking?
Better not. Sit and enjoy—eating is a ritual, not a rush.
Q7: Why don’t French people smile at strangers?
It’s about boundaries. Smiles are reserved for people you know.
Q8: Is punctuality important?
Socially, being fashionably late is okay. Professionally, be on time.
🇫🇷 Want to Speak (and Behave) Like a Local?
Understanding French culture is one thing—living it with confidence is another. At Polyglottist Language Academy, we offer small, personalized French classes that go beyond grammar books. You’ll learn the real-life phrases, tones, and etiquette that help you fit in and thrive.
🧑🏫 Why choose us?
In-person and online French classes
Small class sizes (3–6 students)
Instructors with real cultural insight
Courses for beginners to advanced learners
🎯 Ready to take the next step?
👉 Sign up for a French class today!
📚 Check Out Our Other Articles:
Continue your journey into French life and culture: