Top 50 phrases to get by France — Getting around and shopping

Où est...?

Where is...?

Simply add your destination after 'est' to create your question.

The French are known for helping tourists, so don't hesitate to ask!

Où sont les toilettes?

Where is the bathroom?

Remember, public restrooms might be rare, and some cafes might charge a small fee.

Où est la station de métro?

Where is the metro station?

Use 'la station de métro' for an easy way to find transit in cities.

Paris metro is highly efficient and the maps are color-coded for ease!

Taxi

Taxi

Pronounced 'tahk-see', just like English.

Official taxis have a bright yellow 'Taxi' sign, ensure it's lit when hailing one.

Gauche

Left

Pronounced 'gohsh', practice the nasal sound!

Direction is important in small streets, don't hesitage to ask for it!

Droite

Right

Pronounced 'dwat', the 'd' is soft.

Clear directions are especially useful in Paris with its winding streets.

Tout droit

Straight ahead

Means 'straight' but also implies 'keep going'.

France's bustling alleys often zigzag, so 'tout droit' is common.

Je voudrais aller à...

I want to go to...

Great for taxis! Replace 'à' with your destination.

Politeness counts: 'Je voudrais', meaning 'I would like', is always appreciated.

Cette adresse

This address

Use 'cette' for feminine nouns, easy way to hand an address.

Most Parisians will know their way around, don't hesitate to ask.