20 Essential French Phrases Every Traveler Should Know
Headed to France? Learn 20 essential French phrases to make your trip smoother and more enjoyable. Perfect for travelers who want to connect and be polite.
Traveling to France is a dream for many: sipping café au lait in a Parisian bistro, wandering through lavender fields in Provence, or exploring medieval villages in the Loire Valley. But while France is a welcoming and culturally rich destination, there's one key ingredient that can transform your trip from good to magnifique: speaking a little French.
You don’t have to be fluent. In fact, just a handful of well-chosen French phrases can go a long way in helping you connect with locals, navigate daily interactions, and show respect for the language and culture. French people deeply appreciate visitors who make the effort to speak their language—even if imperfectly.
In this article, we've gathered 20 essential French phrases every traveler should know. They're practical, polite, and perfect for getting around, ordering food, asking questions, and showing good manners. Whether you're traveling to Paris, Lyon, Nice, or a small village off the beaten path, these phrases will be your trusty travel companions.
Why Learn Basic French Phrases Before You Travel?
Even if you’re only in France for a week, learning key expressions has major benefits:
It opens doors: You’ll get friendlier service and more authentic experiences.
It shows respect: Using French demonstrates cultural curiosity and politeness.
It reduces stress: Knowing how to ask for help or directions puts you in control.
It enhances connection: Language is a bridge to deeper human interaction.
Learning these phrases can also spark your interest in continuing to study French when you return home—or even during your trip.
1. Bonjour – Hello / Good day
Why it matters: The single most important word to remember. Always say bonjour when you walk into a store, restaurant, hotel, or even before asking a question.
Pronunciation: [bohn-zhoor]
2. Bonsoir – Good evening
Use it after 6 p.m. or so. Switch from bonjour to bonsoir as the sun sets.
Pronunciation: [bohn-swahr]
3. Merci – Thank you
A simple merci goes a long way in France. Add beaucoup to say “Thank you very much.”
Pronunciation: [mehr-see]
4. S’il vous plaît – Please
Use this to be polite whenever making a request. Literally, “if it pleases you.”
Pronunciation: [seel voo pleh]
5. Excusez-moi – Excuse me
Great for getting someone’s attention politely, whether on the street or in a shop.
Pronunciation: [ex-kew-zay mwah]
6. Parlez-vous anglais ? – Do you speak English?
Use this only after greeting someone in French. You’re more likely to get a positive response.
Pronunciation: [par-lay voo ahn-glay]
7. Je ne parle pas français – I don’t speak French
A useful phrase if you’re struggling, but don’t be afraid to try a few words anyway!
Pronunciation: [zhuh nuh parl pah frahn-say]
8. Pouvez-vous m’aider ? – Can you help me?
Essential for travel hiccups, transportation issues, or directions.
Pronunciation: [poo-vay voo meh-day]
9. Où est... ? – Where is...?
Fill in the blank: la gare (the train station), les toilettes (the restroom), le métro (the metro).
Pronunciation: [oo eh...?]
10. Combien ça coûte ? – How much does it cost?
Great for shopping or looking at menus. Add s’il vous plaît to be extra polite.
Pronunciation: [kohm-byen sah koot]
11. L’addition, s’il vous plaît – The check, please
Restaurants don’t bring the check automatically in France. You have to ask.
Pronunciation: [lah-dee-syon seel voo pleh]
12. Je voudrais... – I would like...
Use this to order food or drinks. More polite than saying je veux (I want).
Example: Je voudrais un café, s’il vous plaît.
Pronunciation: [zhuh voo-dray...]
13. Un café / Une bière / Une carafe d’eau – A coffee / A beer / A carafe of water
French cafes often serve espresso when you order un café.
Pronunciation: [uhn kah-fay / oon byehr / oon kah-rahf doh]
14. Je suis désolé – I’m sorry
Polite and humble, this is good for bumping into someone or apologizing for not speaking French.
Pronunciation: [zhuh swee day-zo-lay]
15. Oui / Non – Yes / No
Essential, of course. But learn to say them with a warm tone.
Pronunciation: [wee / noh]
16. C’est combien ? – How much is it?
Alternate to Combien ça coûte ? Useful at markets or cafes.
Pronunciation: [say kohm-byen]
17. Je cherche... – I’m looking for...
Helpful in shops, hotels, or transportation hubs.
Example: Je cherche un taxi. – I’m looking for a taxi.
Pronunciation: [zhuh shersh...]
18. C’est très bon – It’s very good
Use this to compliment food or wine. Délicieux is also a nice touch.
Pronunciation: [say tray bohn]
19. Parlez lentement, s’il vous plaît – Speak slowly, please
Great for encouraging someone to help you understand.
Pronunciation: [par-lay lahnt-mahn seel voo pleh]
20. Je ne comprends pas – I don’t understand
Use this when you need clarification, but say it with a smile.
Pronunciation: [zhuh nuh kom-prahnd pah]
Pro Tip: Body Language and Tone Matter
In France, how you speak is as important as what you say. Use a warm tone, eye contact, and a friendly smile. Even the most basic French, when delivered politely, is met with appreciation.
FAQs: Speaking French as a Traveler
Q: What if I make mistakes?
A: Don’t worry! French people admire the effort. Just try, smile, and stay relaxed.
Q: Can I get by with English in France?
A: In tourist areas, yes. But speaking even a little French goes a long way in gaining kindness and better service.
Q: Should I use a translation app?
A: Sure! Apps like Google Translate or SayHi are great backups. But start with spoken basics when possible.
Q: How can I practice before my trip?
A: Repeat key phrases aloud daily, watch French YouTube videos, or take a short beginner class.
Q: What are some cultural do’s and don’ts?
A: Always say bonjour before asking for help. Don’t assume everyone speaks English. And never be overly loud or informal.
Want to Learn More French Before Your Trip?
At Polyglottist Language Academy, we offer short-term travel French classes designed for real-world situations. Learn how to:
🇫🇷 Order food, ask for help, and navigate hotels and transport 📍 Speak with confidence in shops, restaurants, and social settings
💻 Join online or in-person classes in San Francisco, Oakland, Berkeley, and San Jose
🎓 Taught by native French speakers with cultural insight
Sign up today and make your trip to France unforgettable for all the right reasons!