Can I visit Paris if I don't speak French?


Can I visit Paris if I don't speak French? Short answer: You may face instances that are confusing, but don't stress and you'll do fine. Lots of people speak English and at the very least are used to dealing with tourists who do not speak French.


Is it legal to speak English in France?

France has one official language, the French language. The French government does not regulate the choice of language in publications by individuals, but the use of French is required by law in commercial and workplace communications.


Can you explore Paris on your own?

It's easy to get around Paris by yourself. It's a fairly walkable city and walking through it is a great way to take it all in. Public transportation is also convenient, easy and reliable. You can easily get around Paris by metro train or buses, and Google maps will show you the best routes to take.


Is it easy to get around Paris as an American?

It's a relatively compact city, so combining your own two feet with low-cost public transportation is the best way of of getting around in Paris. In fact, it's one of the best walking cities in the world, and it also has one of the best public transportation systems. Have a Metro map with you and you'll never be lost.


Can you go to Paris if you only speak English?

It is definitely possible to travel to France while only speaking English. Especially in the more tourist oriented areas, it really is not a problem to only speak English. While France has less English speakers than other European countries, it was still relatively easy to manage.


What to wear in Paris to not look like a tourist?

Opt for elevated basics: a white button-down shirt, straight-leg jeans or wide-leg trousers, and a neutral-toned blazer. If you are choosing to wear a T-shirt, avoid anything with a logo or abrasive design. Think comfortable business casual when packing for France.


Are people friendly in Paris?

Parisian people are reserved and a bit difficult to crack down. And especially if you don't know French, befriending locals can be difficult. But this doesn't mean it's impossible to make new friends. Just remember to go about it in the right way, be patient, and show your effort to learn French and the culture.


What not to do in Paris as an American?

11 Things Tourists Should Never Do in Paris
  • Never buy tickets for attractions and shows on the day of the event. ...
  • Never take the stairs at Paris' Abbesses Métro Station. ...
  • Never take pictures in Paris' famous Shakespeare and Company bookstore. ...
  • Never board Parisian transport without a valid ticket.


Can you Uber in Paris?

Complete your plans today by reserving a ride with Uber in Paris. Request a ride up to 30 days in advance, at any time and on any day of the year.


Are French friendly to American tourists?

No, the French do not hate American tourists. In fact, France welcomes millions of international visitors each year. And many French enjoy meeting people from other cultures and countries, including Americans. There are, however, unspoken cultural norms and expectations that American tourists often ignore.


Do you tip in Paris?

Tipping in France is not mandatory. Even though it is always appreciated, it's up to the customers to decide if they want to tip or not. Unlike other countries, the price of the service is included in the total cost of the bill. You will never be asked to tip, but it's common to leave one if the service was good.