Planning your dream trip to Paris but worried about the language barrier? Relax! Visiting the City of Light without speaking French is entirely possible, especially in central, tourist-heavy areas.
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However, to ensure your trip is smooth, enjoyable, and free of awkward moments, you need to understand one crucial piece of Parisian etiquette: you must make an effort.
Master these simple phrases and smart strategies, and you’ll find Parisians incredibly willing to meet you halfway.
The Golden Rule: Start in French, End in English
This is the key to unlocking warm interactions. Parisians value politeness and respect for their culture. Never assume they speak English, even if they work in the tourism industry.
The 3 Essential Phrases (Say These First!)
| Phrase | Pronunciation (Approx.) | Meaning | Why It’s Essential |
| Bonjour / Bonsoir | bohn-zhoohr / bohn-swahr | Hello / Good Evening | Must be said upon entering any shop, café, or starting any interaction. |
| S’il vous plaît | seel-voo-play | Please | Used when ordering, asking for help, or getting a server’s attention. |
| Merci | mehr-see | Thank You | Followed by Au revoir when you leave. |
The Conversation Opener
After your “Bonjour,” politely ask if they speak English:
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“Parlez-vous anglais, s’il vous plaît?” (Par-lay voo ahn-glay, seel voo play?)
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(Do you speak English, please?)
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If they say Oui (Yes), you can continue in English. If they say Non (No), proceed to Strategy #2.
Technology is Your Translator
Use the power of your smartphone to bridge the language gap instantaneously.
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Google Translate App: This is a lifesaver. Use the camera feature to point your phone at a menu, sign, or street poster, and the text will be translated on your screen in real-time.
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Citymapper or Bonjour RATP: These navigation apps are essential for using the Metro. They show station names, line numbers, directions, and connection points in English, so you rarely need to ask for directions.
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Screenshot Addresses: If you are taking a taxi or Uber, always have the address written down or screenshotted on your phone. Simply showing the address to the driver eliminates the need for complex conversation.
Navigating the City Without Words
The Paris public transport system (RATP) is very non-French speaker friendly.
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Metro Signs: All station names are clearly posted in large text. You navigate by the Line Number and the Name of the Final Stop (Terminus)—not by compass direction (e.g., Line 1, Direction Château de Vincennes).
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Announcements: On major lines (like Line 1 and 14), announcements and signs are often provided in both French and English.
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Tickets: You can buy the Navigo Easy Pass or single tickets directly from machines at every station. These machines feature a language selection option (look for the UK flag icon).
Dining Out: Ordering With Confidence
Food is a serious business in Paris, but ordering is often easier than you think.
| Scenario | Essential Phrase | Backup Strategy |
| Getting a Menu | “La carte, s’il vous plaît.” (The menu, please.) | Many restaurants in tourist areas have an English menu; politely ask: “Avez-vous un menu en anglais?” |
| Ordering | “Je voudrais [dish name], s’il vous plaît.” (I would like…) | Point clearly at the item on the menu. Servers appreciate directness. |
| Asking for the Bill | “L’addition, s’il vous plaît.” (The check, please.) | They will never bring the bill until you ask for it. |
| Allergies/Diet | “Sans gluten.” (Gluten-free.) or “Je suis végétarien(ne).” (I am vegetarian.) | Use Google Translate to write out your allergy clearly on a note card to show the server. |
Final Survival Phrases
| Phrase | Use It When… |
| Au revoir | Leaving any establishment. |
| Je ne parle pas français | You need to set expectations early. |
| Où sont les toilettes? | Asking for the restroom. |
| Un café, s’il vous plaît | Ordering a simple espresso (the default coffee). |
| Une carafe d’eau | Asking for a free pitcher of tap water (saves money!). |
| Pardon | Bumping into someone or needing to get past them. |
By committing just these few essential phrases to memory and coupling them with a genuine smile and reliance on technology, you will find Parisians to be patient, helpful, and appreciative of your small efforts!