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40 essential French phrases for travel

40 essential French phrases for travel

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.

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  • 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.

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  • 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!

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