Therefore, if you plan a tour to France, you may wonder, Do people in France speak English? The answer is: yes, plenty of them do, but that depends on where you are.
In all big cities, such as Paris, plenty of people work in hotels, restaurants, etc., and those who take care of tourist attractions know more or less how to use English.
However, if you find yourself in a small town or a village, you can be surprised by the number of people who don’t know English. That is why a few basic French words will be helpful.
Key Takeaways:
- Many people in large French cities like Paris speak English, especially in tourist areas.
- About 39% of the population in France can speak English, though fluency varies.
- In smaller towns and rural areas, fewer people speak English, so basic French phrases are helpful.
- Politeness, such as starting conversations with “Bonjour” and ending with “Merci,” is appreciated.
- Learning basic French phrases or using language apps can make traveling in France easier.
How Many People Speak English In France?
About 39% of the population in France can speak English, but that doesn’t mean all of them do it fluently. In other words, this means that the more popular places are Paris.
For example, have a bigger population that understands and can speak at least basic English. Younger people and those working in the tourism industry also have a higher probability of speaking the language.
However, once you get out into the countryside or smaller towns, it will be a lot harder to get your point across in English since fewer people speak it.
Asking Do you Speak English? In French
If you need to ask if someone speaks English, it’s considered polite to start in French with Parlez-vous anglais? which means, Do you speak English? You can find this translation using Google Translate or a language app.
It’s also good to start any conversation with “Bonjour” (hello) and always say “Merci” (thank you) after receiving help. Even if only a few words are known to you, the locals will appreciate the effort
Even if you don’t say much in French, it’s at least the small things that show you’re being polite and are giving respect, and can improve your experience in France!
Can You Survive In France With Just English?
You could make do with just English in France, but it does depend on where you are. Even in the major cities like Paris, Lyon, or Nice, you will have numerous people with the ability to speak a little English, especially the ones visiting the tourist attractions.
However, traveling to more rural areas will yield fewer English speakers. It is always advisable to at least know a few basic phrases in French, such as “S’il vous plaît” or “Où est…?”.
Even if you don’t speak perfect French, using these basic phrases shows respect for the local culture.
How Many People In Paris Speak English?
Paris is one of the most visited cities in the world, so it’s no surprise that many Parisians speak English. Around 60% of people in Paris can speak some English, especially in areas where tourists go.
If you visit popular spots like the Eiffel Tower or the Louvre Museum, you’ll likely find people who speak English well enough to help you.
However, it’s still helpful to know some basic French phrases because not everyone is fluent.
Why Learning French Helps
Almost everyone in France speaks French. French is the country’s first and most important language, so learning a few French phrases before your trip can make your experience much better.
People in France appreciate it if visitors try to speak their language, even if it is simple words like “bonjour” or “merci.” Learning French also helps you understand signs, menus, and directions when you’re out exploring.
How Many People In France Speak French?
In France, almost everyone speaks French as his mother tongue; therefore, it is the most important language you have to know, should you plan to stay in France for a long time or go to any interior places.
Knowing the language gives you a better understanding of the local traditions, culture, and daily life. Even if you stay only in places meant for tourists, you may not have much need to speak too much French. But in less touristy places, speaking French will make your journey much easier.
Learning French is easy with apps
If you want to learn some French before your trip, you can use language apps like Duolingo, Babbel, or Google Translate. These apps make it easy to pick up basic words and phrases.
You don’t need to learn a lot, but knowing how to say “hello,” “thank you,” and “where is…?” will help you a lot. You can also use translation apps when you’re out and need quick help reading signs or menus.
Can You Use English In Small Towns?
It’s much harder to find people who speak English in small towns or rural areas. In such areas, you are less likely to encounter any employee able to converse in a local English dialect because they receive fewer tourists.
The more you visit these places, the more you’re bound to know some basic French words. You can also carry a pocket translation book or an application on your phone to assist you in communication.
Using body language and also a friendly attitude would greatly help in making yourself understood.
What To Expect In Different Areas Of France?
In Paris and other large cities like Lyon or Nice, you will find many English speakers. Hotels, restaurants, and shops in these cities often have workers who speak English because they help lots of tourists from around the world.
Most people working in tourist spots will understand you if you speak English.
In smaller cities like Bordeaux or Marseille, some people speak English, but not as many as in Paris.
Many people here understand basic English words, especially younger people who learn it in school. However, they may not feel comfortable having long conversations in English. You might need to use simple words or ask for help in French.
In villages and villages, English speaking is much more difficult. There aren’t so many tourists here, and so they may not speak a word of English. Here, it would be very useful to know some simple words in French.
Even if you can’t speak French much, even greeting people with “hello” (bonjour) or thanking them with “thank you” (merci) will get you a long way.
Conclusion: Do People In France Speak English?
So, do people in France speak English? Actually, yes, many do, especially in big cities like Paris and most tourist hotspots. In smaller towns and the countryside, though, it’s less likely.
Take the time to learn some basic French phrases and words, and you’ll find this whole journey so much easier and a lot more fun.
Even if you speak imperfect French, the effort to communicate will show respect and may see you on a better path for traveling through France.
