You don’t need to speak fluent French to travel confidently within France, but knowing a few key phrases can completely change how the country opens up to you.

From ordering wine at a vineyard to greeting a shop owner in a small village, even a little French goes a long way. Locals genuinely appreciate the effort, and travellers often find they’re met with warmer interactions.

At Amica Vina, we believe travel should feel enriching, not intimidating. Whether you’re joining one of our wine retreats or exploring France on your own, these French language basics will help you feel more at ease from the moment you arrive.

French Language Basics for Visiting France

Why Learning a Few French Phrases Matters

Knowing just a handful of phrases can help you:

Feel more confident navigating daily interactions
Show respect for local customs
Create genuine moments with locals
Reduce travel anxiety, especially when travelling solo

And no, you don’t need perfect pronunciation. Effort matters far more than accuracy.

The Golden Rule of French Politeness

If there’s one thing to remember, it’s this:

👉 Always say “Bonjour” (hello) before asking anything.

In France, jumping straight into a question without greeting someone first can feel abrupt.

A simple “Bonjour” sets the tone for the entire interaction.

In the evening, opt for “Bonsoir” - but don’t beat yourself up if you say “Bonjour” after the sun has set. It’s an innocent mistake that many make, and many more forgive!

Essential French Phrases for Travelling in France

Greetings & Politeness

Bonjour – Hello / Good day
Bonsoir – Good evening
Au revoir – Goodbye
S’il vous plaît – Please
Merci – Thank you
Merci beaucoup – Thank you very much
De rien – You’re welcome

Getting Around & Basic Help

Parlez-vous anglais? – Do you speak English?
Je ne parle pas bien français – I don’t speak French well
Pouvez-vous m’aider? – Can you help me?
Où sont les toilettes? – Where is the bathroom?
Excusez-moi – Excuse me

Pro tip: asking if someone speaks English first is considered polite and respectful. If they say yes (oui) or a little (un peu), you are basically permitted to start speaking English with them.

Ordering Food & Wine

If you’re travelling through wine regions like Bordeaux, Provence, Champagne, or Alsace, these phrases will come in handy.

Une table pour une personne / deux personnes – A table for one / two
La carte, s’il vous plaît – The menu, please
Je prendrai… – I’ll have…
Je voudrais… – I would like…
Un verre de vin rouge/blanc/rosé – A glass of red/white/rosé wine
Une bouteille, s’il vous plaît – A bottle, please
C’était délicieux – That was delicious

Wine Tastings & Vineyard Visits

These get a bit more complicated and aren’t necessary, but are bonus points if you use them on wine tours!

Nous faisons une dégustation – We are doing a tasting
Sec / demi-sec / doux – Dry / semi-dry / sweet
J’aime beaucoup ce vin – I really like this wine
Puis-je acheter une bouteille? – Can I buy a bottle?

A Final Word: Confidence Over Perfection

You don’t need to speak French fluently to travel within France.

A warm “Bonjour,” a sincere “Merci,” and a willingness to try are often met with smiles, patience, and kindness. Language isn’t about perfection; it’s about connection.

Ready to Experience France With Ease?

From vineyard tastings to charming villages, Amica Vina creates curated group wine retreats for female solo travellers who want a magical wine holiday without needing to plan every detail.

During our retreats, you’re always supported with language barriers, but learning a little French is encouraged not only to feel extra confident but also to show respect for the locals.