10 Taboo or Offensive Things to Avoid Doing in France 🇫🇷🚫

France is a dream destination, filled with stunning architecture, rich history, and mouthwatering cuisine. But if you want to enjoy France like a local and avoid annoying the French, there are a few cultural taboos to keep in mind!

Here are 10 things NOT to do in France if you want to make a good impression. ✈️

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1. Don’t Greet Someone Without Saying “Bonjour” First 👋🇫🇷

Walking into a shop and going straight to business? Big mistake! In France, greetings are essential, and skipping a polite “Bonjour” (Good day) can make you seem rude.

💡 What to do instead: Always start interactions with “Bonjour” (during the day) or “Bonsoir” (in the evening)—whether you’re speaking to a waiter, a shopkeeper, or a stranger.

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2. Don’t Expect to Eat Dinner Early 🍽️⏳

France is not a country for early dinners—most restaurants don’t even open until 7 PM, and locals often eat at 8 PM or later.

💡 What to do instead: Plan for later meals! If you’re hungry before dinner, do as the French do and enjoy an apéro (pre-dinner drink and snacks) around 6-7 PM.

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3. Don’t Ask for Ketchup or Modify Your Dish at a Restaurant 🍔❌

French chefs take great pride in their dishes, and asking for ketchup on your steak or extra cheese on your Croque Monsieur might raise eyebrows. Customizing your order isn’t the norm in France.

💡 What to do instead: Trust the chef! Order as it comes, and if you really need something, ask politely.

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4. Don’t Talk Loudly in Public or on Public Transport 🚇🔇

The French value a certain level of discretion, and being loud in public—especially on the metro or in restaurants—can be seen as annoying or impolite.

💡 What to do instead: Keep your voice down in public places and be mindful of your surroundings.

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5. Don’t Expect Unlimited Coffee Refills ☕🚫

In France, coffee is meant to be enjoyed, not endlessly refilled. Unlike in the US, where bottomless coffee is common, in France, you pay per cup—and it’s often served small but strong.

💡 What to do instead: If you want a bigger coffee, order a “café allongé” (similar to an Americano) instead of expecting free refills.

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6. Don’t Assume Everyone Speaks English 🇬🇧❌

While many French people do speak English, especially in tourist areas, they appreciate when visitors make an effort to speak French. Starting a conversation in English without trying any French can seem rude.

💡 What to do instead: Even if your French is basic, start with “Bonjour, parlez-vous anglais?” (Hello, do you speak English?) before switching to English. A little effort goes a long way!

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7. Don’t Expect Fast Service at Restaurants ⏳🍷

In France, meals are meant to be enjoyed, and rushed service is not the norm. Waiters won’t bring the bill unless you ask, and they won’t check on you every five minutes.

💡 What to do instead: Relax and enjoy your meal. If you need the bill, say “L’addition, s’il vous plaît” (The bill, please).

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8. Don’t Cut Bread with a Knife—Tear It Instead 🥖🔪❌

In France, bread is sacred—but cutting it with a knife at a casual meal isn’t the French way. The proper way? Tear it with your hands!

💡 What to do instead: Use your hands to break the bread into bite-sized pieces—it’s how the French do it!

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9. Don’t Touch Produce at Markets Without Permission 🍏🛑

At French markets, touching fruits and vegetables without asking is a big no-no—vendors take great pride in picking the best produce for their customers.

💡 What to do instead: Point to what you want and let the vendor select it for you. If you really want to choose, ask “Je peux toucher?” (Can I touch?) first.

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10. Don’t Assume All French People Love Paris 🏙️❌

Paris is an amazing city, but not all French people are Parisians, and some even find Paris overrated. Saying “France = Paris” can annoy locals from other regions.

💡 What to do instead: Explore beyond Paris! Visit Provence, the Loire Valley, Normandy, or the French Riviera for a true taste of France.

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Final Thoughts: Enjoy France Like a Local! 🇫🇷✨

France is a beautiful, welcoming country, and avoiding these common mistakes will help you blend in and have an amazing experience!

💬 Which of these surprised you the most? Have you ever made a cultural mistake in France? Let us know in the comments! 👇