Do they speak English?

English in France: always start with 'bonjour'

English speakersFine in tourist areasChecked 22 October 2026

English is widely spoken in Paris, ski resorts and tourist areas, and younger people often speak it well. In rural France it's patchier. Whatever you do, say 'bonjour' before anything else: skipping it is seen as rude.

English is the main language
Widely spoken
Fine in tourist areas
Limited

RatingFine in tourist areas

Say helloBonjour

Areas covered3 on this page

The French reputation for refusing to speak English is mostly about manners. Walk into a shop, say 'bonjour madame' or 'bonjour monsieur', and then ask 'parlez-vous anglais?' and you'll usually get a warm reply.

Where it differs

Paris, Nice, ski resortsWidely spoken
English widely spoken in hotels, restaurants and shops.
Normandy, Brittany, DordogneFine in tourist areas
Used to British visitors. English fine in tourist spots.
Rural villagesLimited
Less English, especially with older people.

Phrases worth learning

Bonjourbon-ZHOORHello / good day
Mercimair-SEEThank you
S'il vous plaîtseel voo PLAYPlease
Parlez-vous anglais ?par-lay voo on-GLAYDo you speak English?
L'addition, s'il vous plaîtla-dee-SYONThe bill, please

Tips for getting by

Say 'bonjour' every time you walk into a shop, café or lift.
Ask before you switch: 'Parlez-vous anglais?' is polite.
Learn 'excusez-moi' (excuse me) and 'pardon' (sorry).
Use camera translation for menus in small towns.

Ordering food and drink

Ask for 'une carafe d'eau' for free tap water. 'Un café' is an espresso, and 'un crème' is closer to a latte. Service is included in French bills, so tipping is a small extra, not an obligation.

Before you go

Say 'bonsoir' after about 6pm.

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Questions people ask

Is it rude to speak English in France?

Not if you greet people in French first and ask politely.

Do people speak English in Paris?

Yes, widely in hotels, restaurants and shops, especially among younger people.

How do you say 'do you speak English' in French?

Parlez-vous anglais ? (par-lay voo on-GLAY).

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Waymark summarises official UK government (FCDO) travel advice and other public sources to help you plan. It is not a substitute for that advice, which can change at short notice. Always read the latest FCDO page for your destination and check your insurance before you book. Content last checked 22 October 2026.