Courtesy & Etiquette
Parisians have a reputation for being rude — and that is not true. What is true: They have very strict rules of courtesy, and those who don't know them are treated coldly. The most important rule:
Bonjour — The Open Sesame
“Bonjour!" is the first thing you say — always, everywhere, to everyone. When entering a shop, bakery, restaurant, hotel, taxi. Without “Bonjour," no Parisian will help you — it is considered extremely rude to place an order or ask a question without a greeting.
- In the morning: “Bonjour!" (until about 6 PM)
- In the evening: “Bonsoir!" (from about 6 PM)
- When leaving: “Au revoir!" or “Bonne journée!" (Have a good day) / “Bonne soirée!" (Have a good evening)
- Always: “S'il vous plaît" (Please) and “Merci" (Thank you)
In the Restaurant
- Addressing the waiter: “Excusez-moi!" or simply make eye contact and nod slightly. Never snap your fingers or call “Garçon!"
- The bill: “L'addition, s'il vous plaît." The waiter never brings the bill unprompted — he doesn't want to rush you.
- Tipping: In France, service is included in the price (service compris). Tipping is not obligatory, but 5–10% for satisfaction is appreciated. In cafés: leave small change on the counter.
Useful Phrases
- Parlez-vous anglais? (Do you speak English?) — Always ask first before starting in English.
- Je voudrais... (I would like...) — More polite than “Je veux" (I want).
- Une carafe d'eau, s'il vous plaît. (A carafe of water, please.) — Free tap water in the restaurant.
- Où sont les toilettes? (Where are the toilets?)
- C'est combien? (How much does it cost?)
💡 Tipp
The most important tip for Paris: Say “Bonjour!" and try a few words of French — even if your French is poor. Parisians greatly appreciate the effort, and the atmosphere changes immediately. “Excusez-moi, je ne parle pas français. Parlez-vous anglais?" (Excuse me, I don't speak French. Do you speak English?) opens every door.
