20 Important French Phrases for Getting Around France!

Are you traveling to France soon and want to learn some basic French phrases for getting around? Well, this list is the perfect place to start! These 20 French phrases will help you navigate the beautiful country of France from greeting the local French folk, to ordering delicious steaks, to asking for help with directions!

Speaking from experience, learning some basic phrases of the country you’re visiting language is also an important thing to do. Not only does it show some respect for the language and allows you to communicate at a basic level without expecting everyone to know English (or your native language), but it’s also a fun way to learn a little bit about the culture and where the language comes from. If you travel around Europe, you might even notice that some of these basic French phrases may sound similar in the surrounding countries.

Before traveling to France, check out some of my travel guides for some top French cities to visit!

1. Bonjour / Au revoir (Hello/Goodbye)

Pronunciation: bon-zhoor / oh ruh-vwar
“Bonjour” is the go-to greeting in French for saying hello during the day, while “Au revoir” is used to say goodbye. For casual situations, you can also use “Salut” (Hi/Bye).

2. Merci (Thank you)

Pronunciation: mehr-see
Gratitude goes a long way in France, and “Merci” is one of the most essential words to know. Pair it with “De rien” (You’re welcome) when someone thanks you back.

3. S’il vous plaît (Please)

Pronunciation: seel voo pleh
If you’re asking for something, make sure to add “S’il vous plaît” at the end of your request. It’s a simple way to be polite, and good manners are always appreciated.

4. Excusez-moi (Excuse me)

Pronunciation: ex-kew-zay mwah
Use “Excusez-moi” when you need to get someone’s attention, ask for directions, or politely apologize in crowded areas. It’s the equivalent of “Excuse me” or “I’m sorry.”

5. Combien ça coûte ? (How much does it cost?)

Pronunciation: kohm-byen sah koot
Whether you’re shopping for souvenirs or ordering food at a café, “Combien ça coûte ?” will help you inquire about prices.

6. Où est… ? (Where is…?)

Pronunciation: oo eh
Use “Où est” followed by the location you’re looking for. For example, “Où est la salle de bain ?” (Where is the bathroom?) or “Où est la gare ?” (Where is the train station?).

7. Parlez-vous anglais ? (Do you speak English?)

Pronunciation: par-lay voo ahn-glay?
While many French people in tourist areas speak English, it’s polite to ask first. “Parlez-vous anglais ?” shows that you’re making an effort to speak their language before switching to English.

8. Je ne comprends pas (I don’t understand)

Pronunciation: zhuh nuh kohm-prahnd pah
If you’re struggling to follow along in a conversation, simply say “Je ne comprends pas.” French people are usually happy to help you figure things out, often switching to slower French or English.

9. Puis-je avoir… ? (Can I have…?)

Pronunciation: pwee-zh ah-vwar
This phrase is perfect for ordering at restaurants or cafés. For example, “Puis-je avoir un café ?” (Can I have a coffee?).

10. Je voudrais… (I would like…)

Pronunciation: zhuh voo-dray
Another useful phrase when ordering food or drinks. “Je voudrais” is slightly more polite and formal than “Puis-je avoir.” For example, “Je voudrais une baguette” (I would like a baguette).

11. L’addition, s’il vous plaît (The bill, please)

Pronunciation: lah-dee-syon, seel voo pleh
When you’re ready to pay at a restaurant, use this phrase to ask for the check. In France, you often have to ask for the bill as it’s not automatically brought to you.

12. Eau plate / gazeuse (Still water / Sparkling water)

Pronunciation: oh plaht / gah-zuhz
When ordering water, the waiter will likely ask if you want “plate” (still) or “gazeuse” (sparkling). Knowing this ahead of time saves you from any confusion at the table.

13. Une table pour deux, s’il vous plaît (A table for two, please)

Pronunciation: oon tahbl poor duh, seel voo pleh
When you arrive at a restaurant, simply say “Une table pour deux, s’il vous plaît” to request a table for two. Adjust the number depending on your group size.

14. Quelle heure est-il ? (What time is it?)

Pronunciation: kehl uhr eh-teel?
If you need to ask for the time, “Quelle heure est-il ?” is the way to do it. It’s a handy phrase when navigating train schedules or planning your day.

15. C’est délicieux ! (It’s delicious!)

Pronunciation: say day-lee-syu
Complimenting the food is always a good idea in France, where culinary pride runs deep. Use “C’est délicieux !” to express your satisfaction after a great meal.

16. Pouvez-vous m’aider ? (Can you help me?)

Pronunciation: poo-vay voo meh-day?
If you’re lost or need assistance, “Pouvez-vous m’aider ?” is the polite way to ask for help. French people are generally friendly and willing to assist, especially if you’re making an effort to speak the language.

17. J’ai besoin de… (I need…)

Pronunciation: zhay buh-zwan duh
Use “J’ai besoin de” when you need something specific, such as “J’ai besoin d’un taxi” (I need a taxi) or “J’ai besoin d’un médecin” (I need a doctor).

18. Je cherche… (I’m looking for…)

Pronunciation: zhuh sher-sh
If you’re searching for something, such as a landmark or store, use “Je cherche.” For example, “Je cherche la Tour Eiffel” (I’m looking for the Eiffel Tower).

19. D’accord (Okay/Alright)

Pronunciation: dah-kohr
“D’accord” is a versatile phrase used to express agreement or acknowledgment. It’s similar to saying “Okay” or “That’s fine.”

20. Au revoir (Goodbye)

Pronunciation: oh ruh-vwar
When leaving a more formal setting, “Au revoir” is the polite way to say goodbye. For casual interactions, you can also use “Salut.”

Enjoy your trip to France and merci for checking out this post on 20 helpful French phrases to learn before your upcoming trip!