10 Things Not to Do in France: What Locals Find Rude

France is one of the most visited countries in the world, celebrated for its art, food, fashion, and culture. However, navigating French social norms requires more than a travel guide. Tourists who don’t understand local etiquette can easily come off as impolite or ignorant—even if they don’t mean to.

Here are 10 specific things not to do in France, especially if you want to avoid offending locals and have a more authentic, respectful travel experience.

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1. Don’t Greet Without Saying “Bonjour”

In France, greetings matter. Starting any interaction—whether at a store, café, or with a stranger—without saying “Bonjour” (Hello) is considered rude.

What to do:

• Always say “Bonjour” (during the day) or “Bonsoir” (in the evening) before starting a conversation.
• Add “Monsieur” or “Madame” if speaking to someone older or in a professional context.

Failing to greet someone properly is one of the quickest ways to create a negative impression in France.

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2. Don’t Speak Loudly in Public

French people generally speak at a moderate volume in public. Tourists, especially from louder cultures, often stand out for their noise level.

What to do:

• Keep your voice down on public transport, in restaurants, and on the streets.
• Avoid loud laughter or phone conversations in quiet places like metros or museums.

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3. Don’t Expect Personal Service Without Formality

French service culture is different from places like the U.S., where friendliness and constant attention are expected. In France, professionalism and discretion are valued over excessive friendliness.

What to do:

• Greet the staff properly.
• Be patient and polite when making requests.
• Don’t snap fingers or wave aggressively to get a server’s attention.

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4. Don’t Start Speaking in English Without Asking

While many French people, especially in urban areas, speak English, it’s seen as presumptuous to launch into English without trying French first.

What to do:

• Begin with a simple “Bonjour, excusez-moi, parlez-vous anglais?” (Hello, excuse me, do you speak English?).
• Even a few polite French words will be appreciated.

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5. Don’t Touch Produce at Markets Without Permission

At French open-air markets, sellers usually expect you to let them handle the fruit and vegetables.

What to do:

• Ask before touching: “Je peux?” (Can I?).
• Let the vendor choose the items unless they indicate it’s okay to pick your own.

Touching produce without permission is considered unhygienic and disrespectful to the merchant.

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6. Don’t Eat or Drink on Public Transit

Unlike some countries where eating on the go is normal, in France it’s generally frowned upon to eat or drink on the metro, trains, or buses—especially strong-smelling food.

What to do:

• Wait until you’re off the train or at a station.
• If you must eat, keep it discreet and tidy.

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7. Don’t Expect to Split the Bill in Restaurants

In France, it’s not common to split the bill equally at the table (faire moitié-moitié) like in some cultures. Bills are often paid by one person, or split based on what each person ordered.

What to do:

• Ask politely if splitting is allowed: “Est-ce qu’on peut partager l’addition?”
• Be ready to calculate individual shares yourself.

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8. Don’t Skip Basic Table Manners

Dining in France is a more formal experience, even in casual settings. There are clear expectations around behavior at the table.

What to do:

• Keep both hands on the table (not in your lap).
• Don’t start eating until everyone is served and someone says “Bon appétit.”
• Don’t ask for substitutions or major changes to menu items—it’s seen as disrespectful to the chef.

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9. Don’t Assume Tipping Is Required

Tipping in France is different from North America. By law, a 15% service charge is already included in restaurant bills.

What to do:

• You can leave a small extra tip (e.g., 1–2 euros for a good meal), but it’s not obligatory.
• For taxis, rounding up is enough.

Excessive tipping can feel awkward and is often misunderstood.

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10. Don’t Rush Through Meals or Coffee

In France, meals and coffee breaks are cultural rituals—not fast refueling sessions.

What to do:

• Take your time. Lunch can last over an hour; coffee is sipped slowly.
• Don’t expect takeaway cups everywhere—especially in smaller towns.
• Avoid asking for “to-go” unless it’s clearly available (à emporter).

Trying to eat quickly or rushing a waiter may be seen as rude or inconsiderate.

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Bonus Tip: Don’t Smile Excessively at Strangers

In French culture, smiles are generally more reserved and sincere than in some other countries, like the U.S.

What to do:

• Smile when it’s appropriate (during a friendly exchange or service), but don’t smile automatically at strangers in the street—it can be seen as odd or overly familiar.

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Conclusion

France is a country where etiquette, manners, and social codes are deeply embedded in daily life. While French people are warm and welcoming, they also expect a level of decorum and mutual respect—especially from visitors.

By avoiding these common faux pas and showing a bit of effort to understand local customs, you’ll not only avoid awkward encounters, but also gain the respect and goodwill of the locals.

In short: say “bonjour,” stay polite, and take your time. France will reward you with its charm, cuisine, and culture in return.

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