30 French phrases to know to make your next trip to Paris easier

I’ve told you a lot about French culture, the Parisian lifestyle, great spots in Paris, and hidden gems, but never about the main tool for discovering France and its secrets: the language itself! The good news is that you don’t need to be fluent in French to get by in Paris or the rest of the country.

Even though English is widely understood and spoken in France (albeit not quite as well as in some of our European neighbors’ countries), I still recommend mastering a few essential French phrases before you leave. You only need about thirty well-chosen phrases, spoken confidently and with a decent accent. Here is your survival kit, categorized by the situations where you’ll actually need them.

To start, the golden rule: before we even get to the useful phrases, here is a cultural tip that matters more than grammar: always say “Bonjour” first. Walking into a bakery or shop, or even asking a stranger for directions, without starting with “Bonjour” is considered truly impolite in France; it is the deciding factor that distinguishes a tourist who receives a warm welcome from one who doesn’t. Say it, smile, and then ask your question.

“Bonjour!” ( Hello / Good day!)

“Pardon de vous déranger…” ( Sorry to bother you…) If you need to stop someone on the street to ask for directions.

“S’il vous plaît” / “Merci beaucoup” ( Please / Thank you very much)

“Bonsoir !” ( Good evening! )

“Bonne journée !” / “Bonne soirée !” ( Have a nice day! / Have a nice evening! )

“Est-ce qu’on peut s’installer en terrasse ?” ( Can we sit on the terrace? )Before pouncing on the first available outdoor table, it is customary to catch the waiter’s eye and ask.

“Un café, s’il vous plaît.” (An espresso, please)Note: In Paris, if you simply ask for “un café,” you will be served a strong espresso. If you want a longer coffee with a drop of milk, ask for a “café noisette” or a “grand crème.”

“Excusez-moi…” (Excuse me… ) Never call a waiter “Garçon!” (That isn't done at all anymore.). A polite “Excusez-moi,” accompanied by a slight wave of the hand as he passes your table, is perfect.