40 essential French phrases for travel
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French is not just the language of love — millions speak it of people across Europe, Africa, the Caribbean, and beyond.
Heading to France soon? Whether you’re visiting for a holiday or planning a French study abroad adventure, learning a few key phrases before you go is a game-changer. You’ll be in for a smoother travel experience and feel more confident navigating your destination. What’s more, it shows respect for the culture and people you visit, making it easier to connect with locals.
Here’s our handy guide to essential French phrases that every traveler should know to help you get started.
Phrases to be polite
French culture values politeness and courtesy, especially when interacting with strangers. Learning a few simple phrases can go a long way in showing your respect for their language and culture.
Bonjour — Hello (used up until about 5 pm)
Bonsoir — Good evening
Au revoir — Goodbye
S’il vous plaît — Please
Merci — Thank you
De rien — You’re welcome
Excusez-moi — Excuse me
Comment ça va? — How are you?
Je suis désolé(e) — I’m sorry
Je viens de ___ — I come from ___
Phrases for everyday situations
After mastering the basics, it's time to explore some essential phrases for everyday situations when exploring your destination.
Parlez-vous anglais? — Do you speak English?
Je ne comprends pas — I don’t understand
Pouvez-vous répéter s’il vous plaît? — Can you repeat, please?
Parlez lentement, s'il vous plaît — Speak slowly, please
Où sont les toilettes? — Where is the bathroom?
Où est la gare? — Where is the train station?
Où est le supermarché? — Where is the supermarket?
Puis-je laisser mon sac ici? — Can I leave my bag here?
Je suis perdu — I am lost
Phrases for restaurants
Ordering food and drinks in French is easier than you might think. Here are a few helpful phrases to use when dining out.
Une table pour [deux personnes], s'il vous plaît — A table for [two people], please
Je voudrais réserver une table pour ce soir — I would like to book a table for tonight
Je voudrais voir le menu, s'il vous plaît — I would like to see the menu, please
Je suis végétarien(ne) — I am vegetarian
Avez-vous des plats sans gluten? — Do you have any gluten-free options?
L'addition, s'il vous plaît — The bill, please
Puis-je avoir un verre, s'il vous plaît? — Can I have a glass of water, please?
Pourriez-vous m'apporter une fourchette, s'il vous plaît? — Can you bring me a fork, please?
Avez-vous un couteau que je peux utiliser, s'il vous plaît? — Do you have a knife I can use, please?
Puis-je avoir une cuillère pour mon dessert, s'il vous plaît? — Can I have a spoon for my dessert, please?
Auriez-vous du sel et du poivre? — Do you have salt and pepper?
Phrases for transit
Exploring a French-speaking country is a great experience, but not knowing the language can make getting around feel challenging. Here are some phrases to help you get started.
Ce train va-t-il à ___? — Does this train go to ___?
À quelle heure part le bus? — When does the bus leave?
Pouvez-vous m’aider avec ma valise? — Can you help me with my luggage?
Est-ce que vous pouvez m’emmener à ___? — Can you take me to ____?
Phrases for shopping
Shopping in France is a must-do. Here are a few common phrases that will help you confidently shop ‘til you drop.
Combien ça coûte? — How much does it cost?
Je cherche ___ — I’m looking for ___
Je peux l’essayer? — Can I try this on?
Est-ce que je peux payer par carte? — Can I pay by card?
S'il vous plaît, puis-je avoir un sac? — Please can I have a bag?
Où est la caisse? — Where is the checkout?
Armed with these key phrases, you’ll be well on your way to navigating your French adventure with confidence. From catching a bus and dining at a restaurant to chatting with locals on the street — your efforts to speak French will make your journey even more enjoyable.
Bon voyage!