10 French phrases that will make your vacation in France so much more enjoyable
Or, “dix phrases françaises qui rendront vos vacances en France encore plus agréables”. 🙂
Summer is almost here and France is beckoning with it all its charm. Whether you are planning a weekend in Bordeaux, Paris or Nice, or elsewhere, you probably already thought about what French you do know.
Maybe you are even contemplating a road trip through the south of France, or why not the coastal region in Brittany.
When you visit France, keep in mind that the French language is part of the charm of the country. With that in mind, if you can speak a few phrases in French, you are sure to be met with smiles and pleasant behavior. There is no need to speak the language perfectly. But with a natural curiosity for the French language and a phrase here and there, you can cross cultural bridges so much easier.
10 French phrases for your holiday in France
So, let us check out ten French phrases that really are optimal to know as you begin your travels in France. And we do think you already know “bonjour”. Psst, remember to use “bonsoir” if it is the evening. 🙂
Merci beaucoup
“Merci beaucoup“- Thank you very much. Do we need to say more? 🙂 Politeness goes a long way when you are helped by staff in restaurants, hotels, or cafés.
Le menu, s’il vous plait
“Le menu, s’il vous plait” – The menu, please.
You will eat on your holiday, no doubt. This will get you started as you look for those French delicatesses you have been looking forward to.
Oh, did you like the dish or the beverage you just had, and want another one? Then use this: “Encore [menu item], s’il vous plait” – One more [menu item], please.
L’addition, s’il vous plait
This is simply a must. As you have mastered how to order something in a restaurant or a café using French, it will keep your amiable impression intact by asking for the check in French as well.
“L’addition, s’il vous plait” – The check, please.
Excusez-moi, où puis-je trouver un bon restaurant le centre-ville?
We all want to eat good food and in nice restaurants. Locals will know best which places are “happening” and where the food is an experience.
“Où puis-je trouver un bon restaurant le centre-ville?” – Where is a good restaurant in the city center? If you are addressing someone with this question in mind, understand that you are asking for their time, so do start with “Excusez-moi”.
Je cherche ..
So you find yourself in a shop and you want to find something.
“Je cherche [item]” – I am looking for [item].
This will get you help as you navigate the shops. Again, begin your question to a staff member with “Excusez-moi”. Avoid “pardon” as that sounds like you are apologizing, and there is no need for that when you are looking for something.
Bonjour / Bonne après-midi / Bonsoir
Greet people in hotels, restaurants and cafés. Keep the time of day in mind.
“Bonjour” – Good morning.
“Bonne après-midi” – Good afternoon.
“Bonsoir” – Good evening.
Bien, merci. Et vous-même ?
You will very likely be asked “Comment ça va ?” (how are you), and this answer will help you keep the conversation flowing.
“Bien, merci. Et vous-même?” – Good, thanks. And you?” Get ready for the response and see how much French you can pick up.
Je suis ravi de vous rencontrer
So you have said hello to someone in an establishment and they answer..
“Je suis ravi de vous rencontrer” – I am pleased to meet you.
This is the essence of French politeness.
Je m’appelle ..
As you enter a hotel to check in, or go to a restaurant where you made a reservation, they will certainly ask for your name. So show a friendly smile and say..
“Je m’appelle [name]” – My name is [name]. Et voila (there you go), you have just showed your eagerness to speak French. Way to go, or.. “Il est bien fait!”.
Au revoir
No pleasant conversation is complete without a friendly goodbye, or “au revoir“. Make sure not to forget this as you leave a hotel, restaurant or other establishment where you have shown your politeness when you arrived.
