Knowing a bit about French customs will help you feel confident when exploring beyond the park.
Estimated read time: 25 minutes
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Visiting Disneyland Paris is not only about enjoying the parks - it also means spending time in France. Knowing a bit about French customs will help you feel confident when exploring beyond the park gates in places like Val d'Europe, local hotels, and public transport. This field guide covers practical French cultural habits and etiquette, so you can get along smoothly with locals.
Always start with "bonjour." In France, every interaction should begin with a polite greeting. Whether you're addressing a bus driver, a shop assistant, or a waiter, saying "Bonjour" (hello) is essential. It's more than just "hello" - it signals respect and opens the conversation on the right note. For example, if you need help and don't speak French, you would still say "Bonjour" first, wait for them to reply, and then ask "Parlez-vous anglais ?" (Do you speak English?). Skipping the greeting and launching straight into a request is considered rude and off-putting. Likewise, when you finish an interaction - such as leaving a shop or paying at a café - it's courteous to say "Merci, au revoir" (thank you, goodbye) to close with politeness.
Use the basic courtesies. The French take pride in good manners, so include the usual pleases and thank-yous just as you would (and perhaps a bit more). Saying "s'il vous plaît" (please) when asking for something and "merci" (thank you) upon receiving it is expected in any shop, hotel, or restaurant. If you're addressing someone directly (for example, getting a waiter's attention), use "Monsieur" for a man or "Madame" for a woman - e.g. "Excusez-moi, Madame..." - as this polite form of address is appreciated. Overall, British visitors will find French politeness formal but friendly: a little effort with these phrases goes a long way to make a good impression.
Greet people in shops and lifts. One charming French habit is saying hello upon entering small spaces. For instance, when you step into a boutique or even share a lift, it's common to nod or say "Bonjour" to those present. In the UK people often avoid acknowledging strangers, but in France this friendly greeting is normal. So don't be shy - returning a "bonjour" or offering one yourself will be seen as polite. Similarly, when leaving a small shop, a brief "Au revoir" (goodbye) or "Bonne journée" (have a nice day) to the shopkeeper is customary if you interacted with them. These small exchanges make everyday transactions more pleasant.
No need for hugs - but a handshake is fine. Personal greetings in France are usually more formal with strangers. Unlike Americans, both Brits and the French aren't overly touchy-feely with people they don't know. You won't be expected to hug anyone you've just met. Instead, a simple handshake is the normal greeting in formal situations or when being introduced to someone new. Among friends and family, the French do practice "la bise" (cheek kisses), but as a visitor you wouldn't initiate this with strangers or casual acquaintances. A polite "bonjour" and possibly a light handshake are perfectly sufficient in any tourist interaction. Don't worry about mastering cheek-kissing - it won't be expected from foreign guests.
Respect comfortable distance. In general, French people have a similar sense of personal space to Britons. You usually won't find big differences in how close strangers stand in queues or how they behave on public transport. On the Paris RER trains or buses around Marne-la-Vallée, expect about the same personal space as on a busy UK train - it can be tight when crowded, but unnecessary touching is avoided. The French, like Brits, aren't extremely demonstrative with strangers, so you won't find people being overly familiar in body language. If anything, Parisians might appear a bit reserved or formal at first, which is normal.
Be mindful of eye contact and gestures. In cities, people may not make much eye contact with strangers. For example, in London it's common to avoid eye contact on the Tube; similarly, in Paris, commuters can be polite but not openly friendly with unknown people. Don't take it personally if locals seem to keep to themselves in public. When you do interact, a smile and a courteous tone help, but there's no need for exaggerated gestures. The French tend to use moderate hand gestures compared to some other Europeans, and they appreciate a calm demeanour. Keep your body language polite and restrained - much like at home - and you'll fit in fine.
Understand formality in expressions. French communication can come across as direct once you're in conversation. Whereas British speech often softens requests (with phrases like "could you possibly...?"), a French person might simply say, "Je voudrais un café, s'il vous plaît" (I would like a coffee, please) without additional small talk - after the initial bonjour, of course. This direct style isn't rudeness; it's just a straightforward approach. Feel free to be direct as well when needed, as long as you're polite. Also, remember to say "pardon" or "excusez-moi" if you accidentally bump someone or need to pass by - the French use these apologies just as routinely as Brits do.
Queues may be less orderly than in the UK. Britons are famous for forming neat queues and waiting patiently in line. In France, queue etiquette exists, but it's noticeably more relaxed. You might find that in everyday situations - at a ticket counter, a bakery, or a bus stop - people don't always line up in a perfect single file. It's not that the French are rude, but they can be more assertive about getting to the front. Cutting ahead is viewed very negatively in Britain, but in France you'll occasionally see someone edge forward if there's any gap. In fact, foreign observers often note that "French people push in... anywhere else you have to queue". This can be a surprise if you're used to orderly British queues.
Hold your place assertively. The best way to handle French queues is to stay attentive and calmly assert your turn. For example, at a bus stop, locals often gather in a cluster rather than a tidy line. When the bus arrives, everyone might step forward at once. In this case, remember who was there before you and move forward in turn, but be prepared that others will do the same. Don't be overly timid - step up when it's your turn, or someone else might step in front of you. This isn't considered aggressive in France; it's just how people organize themselves. The same can happen at a train platform: as the RER train to Paris pulls in, people may not queue but will position themselves near the doors. It's okay to position yourself confidently too, rather than hanging back and expecting an orderly line.
Queue-jumping is still disliked. Although French lines aren't as strict, outright queue-jumping (skipping ahead unfairly) can annoy everyone just as it does in the UK. Locals generally acknowledge who arrived first even if they're not standing in perfect order. If someone clearly tries to shove past, you are within your rights to politely say "Pardon, il y a une file" (Excuse me, there's a queue) or give a disapproving look - the French are not immune to public scolding. Fortunately, in tourist venues like Disneyland Paris, queues for rides are well-organised with rails and staff, so you won't encounter much line-cutting inside the parks. Even French visitors adhere to the formal queue system when it's enforced. The only place you might see some jostling in the parks is during parades or character meet-and-greets, where eager parents might push their children forward. Use your judgement in those cases; a little assertiveness is needed to maintain your spot, but major incidents are rare. Overall, patience and polite firmness will serve you well in any French queue.
Keep your voice down in public. One cultural difference you might notice is the expected volume of speech. In many French public settings - on trains, in restaurants, in shops - people speak in moderate tones. Speaking very loudly in public is seen as disruptive and will draw unwanted attention. British travellers are generally quieter than, say, American tourists, so this likely comes naturally. Still, be mindful: if you're in a café or on the RER, avoid booming conversations or shouting across to your family. Using an "indoor voice" is appreciated everywhere; in fact, a good rule in Paris is to make your inside voice your outside voice too. By keeping noise levels polite, you'll blend in and show respect for those around you.
Public transport etiquette. Riding the RER or Metro, you'll find locals typically sit or stand quietly, often absorbed in their phones or books. It's polite to do likewise. If you're in a group, try not to dominate the space with loud chatter. Also, remember the basics: give up your seat for elderly or disabled passengers (this courtesy is expected just as in the UK), and keep bags out of the way of others. One particular local habit: Parisians generally avoid eating meals on public transport, especially anything messy or strong-smelling. It's not forbidden, but you might get a few looks if you break out a big sandwich on the train. (An anecdote recounts a man sarcastically saying "Bon appétit, mademoiselle" to a student who was munching on the go.) It's best to save your snacks for when you're off the train or at least eat very discreetly. Small tidy snacks or a bottle of water are fine, but anything more substantial should wait until you can sit somewhere.
Avoid eating on the move. In France, there is a cultural preference to sit down and enjoy food rather than eating while walking down the street. You'll rarely see locals strolling through a shopping centre with a takeaway lunch in hand. Instead, if people need a quick bite, they'll pause on a bench or stand at a café counter briefly. If you grab something from a bakery in Val d'Europe, consider stepping aside to eat it rather than walking directly into shops with it. Eating on public transport is particularly frowned upon in Paris - it's considered bad manners. So, if you've just bought a croissant for breakfast, try to finish it before boarding the train, or wrap it up for later. These small choices will help you avoid any disapproving glances. In general, France isn't as fast-paced about food as the UK or US; taking a moment to eat politely is the norm.
Keep public spaces tidy. France, like the UK, expects basic civic manners in public areas. Always dispose of your rubbish in bins (you'll find plenty around the Disneyland area and stations). Smoking is more common in France, and you may notice more smokers even in public areas - do be aware of designated non-smoking zones. Disneyland Paris still has smoking areas inside the parks, unlike the complete bans in some other Disney parks, reflecting France's more tolerant attitude towards smoking. If you are a smoker, use those set areas out of consideration for others. If you're not, be prepared that you might catch the occasional whiff of smoke in public outdoor spaces despite rules against it. Lastly, keep to the right on escalators (stand on the right, walk on the left) in busy transit hubs - this is actually one habit French and British commuters share to keep things moving efficiently.
Entering a shop - greet the staff. Whenever you walk into a small shop or bakery, it's polite to say "Bonjour" to the shopkeeper or staff who notice you. They will usually say bonjour to you first. This custom applies in many independent shops, boutiques, and smaller cafés. Even in larger stores at Val d'Europe mall, sales assistants at the door might greet customers with "Bonjour Monsieur/Madame". A friendly bonjour back is the right response. It signals that you acknowledge them. If you need assistance finding something, begin with "Bonjour, excusez-moi de vous déranger..." (Hello, excuse me for bothering you) or simply "Bonjour, Madame, je cherche..." (Hello, madam, I'm looking for...). The key is not to start any request cold - always cushion it with a greeting and perhaps "s'il vous plaît". This may feel overly formal to British shoppers at first, but it's standard in France.
Browsing etiquette. French retail staff generally won't hover over you while you browse - they tend to give customers space unless asked for help. You might find this pleasantly low-pressure. If you need help, don't hesitate to politely get a staff member's attention with "Excusez-moi, Madame/Monsieur" and a question. They will assist when directly approached. In quieter shops, shopkeepers often appreciate a quick "merci, au revoir" when you leave, even if you didn't buy anything. This is seen as courteous, whereas leaving in silence might be viewed as a bit brusque.
Café customs (counter service). At casual cafés or boulangeries (bakeries), you typically order at the counter. Greet the person with bonjour, make your order (pointing works if you're unsure how to pronounce a pastry's name), and remember to say "s'il vous plaît". For example: "Bonjour, je voudrais un café et un croissant, s'il vous plaît." (Hello, I'd like a coffee and a croissant, please.) They'll tell you the price; it's polite to place your cash on the little tray by the register rather than directly handing it into their hand (though this is not a strict rule, just a common practice). If you're paying by card, you'll often insert or tap it yourself on the machine they offer. After paying, don't forget to say thank you ("merci") and goodbye when you depart. In many French cafés, especially in tourist areas, the staff may know some English, but using a few French words shows goodwill.
Sitting in cafés. Some cafés have table service (especially if they have a terrace or seating area) and different pricing for take-away vs. sit-down. If you plan to sit, it's customary to take a seat and wait for a server to come to you. They may not rush over immediately - French café culture is unhurried - but they will come. You can signal that you're ready by catching their eye or a small hand wave if needed, but never by shouting. When the server arrives, start with "Bonjour" and then order. If you just want a quick coffee at the bar and there's a counter, you can often stand there and pay a lower price (this is common in Paris, though less so in the Disneyland area which is more tourist-centric). At the end, it's acceptable to linger as long as you like. To pay, you usually ask for the bill (see the section on restaurants below). A small tip (just rounding up a euro or so) for a drink or coffee is appreciated but not obligatory.
Seating and greeting. At restaurants (including those in Disney Village or the hotels), the norm is to wait to be seated by the staff. When you arrive, the host or a waiter will usually greet you with "Bonjour" - respond in kind, and you can say something like "Bonjour, une table pour deux s'il vous plaît" (Hello, a table for two please) if you need to request a table. In many cases they speak enough English to understand "table for two," especially around Disneyland, but using a French greeting is still polite. Once seated, you might say "merci" when they hand you the menu. French restaurants do not typically rush you, so they might not come to take your order immediately; you may need to close the menu or make eye contact to indicate you're ready.
Pace of service. Dining in France is generally more leisurely than in the UK. Expect a relaxed pace, especially at dinner. After you finish eating, waiters will not bring the bill until you ask for it. This is an important difference that catches many visitors off guard. In the UK you might get the bill without asking once it seems you're finished, but in France that could be considered pushing you out. Instead, the staff let you stay as long as you like, and you must ask when you're ready to pay. Don't interpret the lack of a bill or few check-ins as poor service - it's actually them being polite and giving you space. When you are ready, you can signal a server and say "L'addition, s'il vous plaît" (The bill, please). You might mime writing in the air (a common gesture for the bill) if the situation allows. They will bring the bill to you. If you're in a hurry, it's perfectly fine to ask for the bill when they clear your plates or when ordering dessert, but they typically won't presume you want it early.
Getting the waiter's attention. In a busy Parisian brasserie, you may have seen locals call out "Garçon!" in old movies - do not do this now, as it's considered rude. Instead, use "Monsieur" or "Madame" to politely address your server if you need their attention (e.g. "Excusez-moi, Monsieur"). A polite wave or eye contact also works. French servers are generally attentive but not hovering, so a gentle prompt is acceptable when needed.
Customer service style. Be aware that French waitstaff and service employees may come off as more reserved or businesslike than what you're used to. For instance, at Disneyland Paris the cast members (staff) are friendly, but they might not be as excessively cheerful or chatty as those in US Disney parks. This doesn't mean they are impolite - it's just the French style to be professional and not over-familiar. In fact, some Americans interpret French waiters as "rude" simply because they aren't constantly smiling or checking in, whereas the French see that as respecting the diner's space. As a Brit, you might not find it too different from normal European service. Just keep in mind that if a waiter isn't smiling broadly or engaging in small talk, it's not personal - they will still provide good service as long as you are courteous. A sincere "merci" and a smile from you when they serve you will usually get a pleasant, if subtle, smile in return.
Tipping etiquette. Tipping in France is more low-key than in some other countries. By law, a 15% service charge is included in restaurant bills ("service compris"), so no additional tip is required. However, it's common to round up or leave a little extra change for good service. For example, if your dinner bill is €48, many locals might leave €50 total. A tip of around 5% is perfectly adequate for normal service; 10% would be considered generous and is only usually given for exceptional service. In casual settings like cafés or for small bills, leaving a euro or two extra is appreciated but not compulsory. Staff do not rely on tips for their wages as in the US, but they certainly won't mind a bit of gratuity for excellent service. At bars, it's polite to leave small change (for example, if a beer is €5.50, you might leave €6). Hotel staff: You can tip porters a euro or two per bag, and housekeeping a few euros if you wish, but again it's not expected in the way it is in some other countries. The key is that tipping is optional - you won't offend anyone by not tipping for standard service, but rounding up is a nice gesture when you feel taken care of.
Meal customs and timings. If you venture outside the tourist area for a meal, be aware of French dining times. Traditional lunch hours are roughly 12:00-14:00, and many local restaurants (outside the resort) only serve lunch during those hours. Don't be surprised if a restaurant in a nearby town closes in the mid-afternoon and reopens for dinner around 19:00. In Val d'Europe and Disneyland's vicinity, many eateries cater to tourists with longer hours, but some may still observe a break between lunch and dinner. Dinner in France is typically later than in the UK - locals might start around 19:30-20:30. If you show up right at 18:00, you might find an empty restaurant or limited service. Also note that Sunday in France can be a quiet day for commerce. Outside of tourist zones, many shops and smaller restaurants are closed on Sundays or only open for part of the day. However, the Val d'Europe shopping centre is an exception - it is open on Sundays (usually with slightly shorter hours) to accommodate visitors. If you're planning a Sunday meal off-site, check ahead as some independent restaurants might be shut. In the resort area itself, you will always find options open every day.
General welcome and expectations. Around Disneyland Paris and the surrounding area, locals are used to tourists. The resort employs many multilingual staff, and businesses in Val d'Europe regularly serve international visitors. In general, French people appreciate when visitors are courteous and make an effort to respect local customs. Simply using polite words like bonjour, merci and s'il vous plaît is seen as a sign of respect and will make interactions smoother. Attempting a bit of French - even just a greeting - often results in warmer service. As one Disneyland Paris guide notes, cast members value it when guests know a few French phrases and will often respond kindly. You don't need to be fluent; what matters is the demonstration of goodwill.
Behaviour that is appreciated. French locals tend to respond well to calm, patient behaviour. If there's a delay (say, a train running late or a slow queue), causing a scene or getting very agitated is frowned upon - staying patient marks you as a polite visitor. In shops and markets, showing interest in French products or using a bit of French (like greeting and thanking) will usually prompt a friendlier demeanor. The French also value their personal dignity in service roles: treating waiters, shop assistants, hotel staff, etc., with the same respect you'd show any professional is important. A simple "Bonjour Monsieur, merci beaucoup" to a taxi driver or a waiter is the kind of courtesy that locals themselves always follow. Basically, if you behave as a polite guest in their country - acknowledging that you are in France and not assuming everything works exactly like home - you'll find most people quite helpful and pleasant.
Behaviour to avoid. On the other hand, certain tourist behaviours can irritate locals. A key mistake is to ignore the basic courtesies - for example, approaching someone with an English question and no greeting, or not saying thank you after a service. This can come off as brash. Also, speaking loudly as mentioned, or appearing culturally insensitive (like complaining loudly that things are not like Britain) will not win you any fans. While French service workers are accustomed to international tourists, they dislike feeling as if their culture is being disregarded. For instance, demanding things in English without any attempt to communicate politely can be seen as arrogant. Similarly, rowdy or drunk behaviour in public is very uncommon in France outside of perhaps big events; around a family destination like Disneyland, it's especially unwelcome. French locals also take pride in their language, so saying "France is great because everyone speaks English!" may not be the compliment you think - they would rather hear that you enjoy their country and maybe learned a couple of French words.
Stereotypes and reality. British visitors sometimes worry about a stereotype that "Parisians are rude." In the Disneyland area (which is actually outside Paris city proper), you'll likely find people to be professional and used to foreigners. Any perceived rudeness often comes from cultural miscommunication - for example, a shop clerk who seems curt may have been taken aback if you didn't say bonjour, since to them that was rude. When both sides follow the expected manners, interactions are usually smooth. In truth, most French people are polite and even quite friendly when approached with respect. If you make the effort to say "Excusez-moi, parlez-vous anglais ?" before asking a question, many will happily try to help in English if they can. And if someone doesn't speak English, they might still attempt or will find a colleague who does, as long as you approached politely.
In summary, locals appreciate tourists who adapt slightly to French manners, and they tend to dislike those who act impatient or oblivious to local customs. By following the guidance in this field guide - greeting people, staying polite, and observing how locals do things - you'll be seen as a considerate visitor. French people often warm up once they see you respect their way of life, even if only in small ways. A little cultural awareness goes a long way to ensure mutual respect.
English is widely understood, but French is the default. In and around Disneyland Paris, you will find that most staff and many locals can speak at least basic English. The resort specifically hires cast members who speak multiple languages - every Disney employee is required to know French and at least one other European language. As a result, getting by in English inside the parks, official hotels, and the large shops is usually no problem. Signage in the parks is often bilingual (French and English), and announcements may alternate languages. At the Val d'Europe shopping centre and train station, English is less guaranteed among all staff, but because the area serves tourists, you can usually find someone who speaks some English, especially in chain stores or restaurants. Many younger French people have studied English at school and will try to use it if needed.
Always ask or signal before assuming English. Even though English is common in tourist zones, it is polite to ask first or at least greet in French. A simple "Bonjour, parlez-vous anglais ?" (Hello, do you speak English?) is an excellent phrase to use at hotels, shops, or when approaching someone for help. In most cases, the reply will be "Oui, un petit peu" (Yes, a little bit) or even fluent English. By asking, you show that you respect the local language. If you launch into English without warning, some people might find it a bit presumptuous - not all, but some. The French are generally proud of their language, and while they don't expect tourists to be fluent, they appreciate the courtesy of being asked. This approach can also make the person more willing to help; as one etiquette expert notes, saying bonjour and asking in French first often makes the other person more likely to "go the extra mile" for you.
Around town and transport hubs. Disneyland Paris itself, including Disney Village and the official hotels, will have plenty of English-speaking staff. At Marne-la-Vallée/Chessy train station (the station for Disneyland), signage will be primarily in French, but key information (like platform directions) is pictorial or internationally recognizable. Station staff might speak English, but not always, so having a translation app or the ability to ask "Le train pour Paris?" (the train for Paris?) could be handy. In the Val d'Europe area (which includes a large mall, restaurants, and other hotels in nearby towns like Serris and Magny-le-Hongre), don't assume every waiter or shop clerk speaks English - though many will try. Menus may be in French only, or sometimes have English subtitles in touristy places. If you're venturing into Paris for a day trip, you'll encounter fewer English speakers once outside the main tourist attractions, so learning a few travel phrases is useful.
Don't worry about perfect pronunciation. Locals do not expect you to have a perfect French accent. A friendly attempt, even if pronounced with an English flair, is appreciated. For example, saying "bon-jour" (with a hard J as in "jar") is absolutely fine - most French people will understand and smile at the effort. The same goes for phrases like "merci" (you can say "mehr-see") or "s'il vous plaît" ("seel-voo-play"). If you mispronounce something and they look confused, don't panic - just try English or point to what you mean. Often a mix of a few French words, gestures, and English will get the job done. Confidence and politeness are more important than getting every vowel right. That said, knowing roughly how to say key words does help. (See the next section for some useful phrases with notes on usage and pronunciation.)
Responding to French speakers. You might encounter situations where someone speaks to you in French unexpectedly - for example, a shop cashier might start explaining something in rapid French or a passerby might ask you a question thinking you're local. If you don't understand, a polite strategy is to say "Pardon, je ne parle pas français" (Sorry, I don't speak French) or "Désolé, je suis Anglais(e)" (Sorry, I'm English). Usually, they will either switch to any English they know, or wave it off. In tourist areas, many French will guess and automatically switch to English when they notice you're foreign, especially if you look unsure. It's fine to use English once you've established that it's okay - most people in the service industry around Disneyland will accommodate you. Just remember that outside of those roles, a random person might not speak English at all. In that case, using a translator app on your phone or simply finding someone else who can help is the way to go. Staff at hotels and tourist sites can usually assist if you're struggling with language somewhere; for instance, your hotel reception might call a local restaurant to make a reservation for you if there's a language barrier.
In summary, English will see you through in the Disneyland Paris area, but a dash of French here and there greatly enhances communication and experiences. When in doubt, start in French (even if only one or two words) and then gently transition to English. Most locals will meet you halfway.
Below are some simple French phrases that are handy for a short visit. They're given with correct spelling (including accents) and a plain English explanation. You don't need to memorize many - even a few of these will help in daily interactions. Pronunciations are provided approximately (in British English terms) where useful:
Each of these phrases can be used on its own or combined. Don't worry about making mistakes - locals will generally understand what you mean. Even if your pronunciation isn't perfect, using these words shows respect and often prompts the listener to respond kindly or switch to English if they can. Keep a small cheat-sheet or have these phrases on your phone for quick reference. With a few greetings and key phrases at your disposal, you'll find navigating everyday situations in Disneyland Paris and its surroundings much easier and more enjoyable.
Guide Updated: 18 January 2026