10 Cultural Faux Pas to Avoid in French-Speaking Countries (France & Switzerland)

Essential etiquette tips every expat should know

Moving to France or French-speaking Switzerland is an exciting adventure. From world-class food to stunning landscapes and rich cultural traditions, life in Francophone countries offers endless rewards. But for many expats, navigating French etiquette can be surprisingly tricky. What seems normal in your home country may be considered rude—or even shocking—in a French-speaking environment.

This guide explains the 10 most common cultural faux pas to avoid, with practical examples from daily life in France and Switzerland—so you can communicate with confidence and blend in comme un local.

1. Forgetting to Say Bonjour

If there’s only one rule to remember, it’s this: always greet people with “Bonjour” (or “Bonsoir” after 6 p.m.).

Whether it’s a shopkeeper, bus driver, neighbour, or colleague, skipping the greeting is seen as impolite.

Tip for expats: Start every interaction with Bonjour, then proceed with your question. You’ll instantly get better service.

2. Speaking Too Loudly in Public

In France and Switzerland, people place value on keeping public spaces calm. Loud conversations—especially on public transport—can come across as disruptive.

Blend in: Use your “indoor voice” at cafés, on trains, and in shops.

3. Assuming Everyone Speaks English

While many French and Swiss people know English, assuming it is considered arrogant.

Showing effort—even a simple Excusez-moi, parlez-vous anglais ?—goes a long way.

Cultural tip: In French-speaking Switzerland, people may switch languages easily, but they still appreciate being asked politely.

4. Misusing “Tu” and “Vous”

French has two forms of “you”:

• Vous = formal, respectful, used with strangers

• Tu = informal, used with friends, children, close colleagues

Using tu too soon can feel disrespectful.

Rule of thumb: Always start with vous. Let the other person offer tu first.

5. Not Saying Goodbye When Leaving a Shop

Just like greeting, saying “Au revoir, bonne journée !” when you leave a shop is expected.

Skipping it can make you seem unfriendly or abrupt.

6. Handling Food Incorrectly (Bread, Cheese, & Mealtimes)

Food etiquette is serious business in France and Switzerland.

A few big no-nos:

• Don’t place bread upside down on the table.

• Don’t cut cheese in irregular shapes (there is a right way).

• Don’t ask for a doggy bag in France (it’s more accepted in Switzerland).

• Avoid eating or drinking on the street unless it’s ice cream.

Tip: Observe locals at meals—they’ll show you the unspoken rules.

7. Being Too Direct or Too Positive Too Soon

Anglo-cultures value enthusiasm and directness.

French-speaking cultures value nuance, balance, and diplomacy.

For example:

• Saying “This is amazing!” repeatedly can feel exaggerated.

• Being blunt can appear rude.

Try this instead: Use moderated expressions like C’est pas mal or C’est intéressant, which are perfectly positive in French.

8. Ignoring Local Punctuality Norms

Here’s where France and French-speaking Switzerland differ:

• France: Being 5–10 minutes late is culturally tolerated.

• Switzerland: Being even 2 minutes late can be seen as disrespectful.

Adapt according to where you live: When in doubt, arrive on time.

9. Not Respecting Personal Space

Despite the stereotype of French cheek kisses (la bise), people still value personal space—especially strangers in public places.

Guidelines:

• Don’t touch people casually.

• Keep distance in queues.

• Wait before initiating la bise—follow the other person’s lead.

10. Complaining About the System Too Fast

French people love discussing politics, bureaucracy, and public services—but only among themselves.

A foreigner criticizing French or Swiss systems early on can come across as disrespectful.

Better approach: Ask questions, stay curious, and share observations gently.

Improve Your Cultural Understanding Through Online French Lessons

Learning how to avoid cultural faux pas becomes much easier when you regularly interact with a native speaker. Through online private French lessons or online French conversation classes, you can practice real-life scenarios, learn the right expressions for formal and informal situations, and understand the cultural nuances behind “bonjour”, “vous”, punctuality, and personal space. These guided sessions help expats build confidence, avoid misunderstandings, and adapt more naturally to life in France or Switzerland.

Useful French Phrases to Navigate Politeness

• Bonjour / Bonsoir — The essential greeting

• Excusez-moi — Excuse me

• S’il vous plaît / Merci beaucoup — Please / Thank you

• Je peux vous poser une question ? — May I ask you a question?

• Est-ce que je peux vous tutoyer ? — Can we use “tu”?

• Désolé pour le dérangement — Sorry for the inconvenience

• Bonne journée / Bonne soirée — Have a nice day/evening

Including these phrases in your conversations will instantly make interactions smoother and more respectful.

Mastering Local Etiquette as an Expat

Avoiding these cultural faux pas will make your life in France or French-speaking Switzerland smoother and more enjoyable. You’ll build deeper connections, earn respect, and feel more at home in your new environment.

With a bit of awareness—and a few essential French expressions—you’ll navigate daily life comme un local in no time.

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Audrey, your French teacher.