![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.france-hotel-guide.com\/en\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/opening-hours-store.jpg\")
<\/p>\nVisiting France is an incredible experience, but some things might surprise you if you’re not prepared! From dining habits to daily life, here are some cultural differences that often shock tourists.<\/p>\n
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Many tourists expect businesses to stay open all day, but in France, long lunch breaks are normal.<\/p>\n
Many small shops close between 12 or 1 PM and 2 or 3 PM so staff can enjoy a proper meal.<\/p>\n
This is especially common in smaller towns, but even in Paris, you\u2019ll find many places shutting down for lunch.<\/p>\n
Plan accordingly\u2014if you need groceries or souvenirs, get them before noon or after 3 PM!<\/p>\n
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![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.france-hotel-guide.com\/en\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/closed-store.jpg\")
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Unlike in some countries where Sundays are shopping days, in France, it\u2019s a day of rest.<\/p>\n
Many stores, supermarkets, and boutiques are completely closed or have limited hours.<\/p>\n
This can be frustrating if you\u2019re used to weekend shopping, but it\u2019s part of the slower-paced lifestyle.<\/p>\n
Some tourist-heavy areas like the Champs-\u00c9lys\u00e9es or Le Marais may have shops open, but don\u2019t expect business as usual across the city.<\/p>\n
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![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.france-hotel-guide.com\/en\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/cheek-kiss.jpg\")
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Instead of a handshake, many French people greet each other with \u201cla bise\u201d\u2014a light kiss on each cheek.<\/p>\n
The number of kisses varies by region, but in Paris, two kisses (one on each cheek) is the norm.<\/p>\n
While tourists aren\u2019t expected to do it, you might see it often between friends and family.<\/p>\n
If unsure, a polite handshake is always safe!<\/p>\n
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![\"smoker](\"https:\/\/www.france-hotel-guide.com\/en\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/smoker-paris.jpg\")
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Smoking is much more common in France than in some other countries, especially in outdoor caf\u00e9s, restaurant terraces, and even outside train stations.<\/p>\n
While smoking indoors is banned, you\u2019ll still find many people lighting up outside.<\/p>\n
If you’re sensitive to smoke, choosing an indoor table at restaurants or caf\u00e9s can help.<\/p>\n
Otherwise, just be prepared for the smell of cigarettes as part of daily life in France.<\/p>\n
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Contrary to the stereotype, French people can be very friendly, but in a different way than some cultures expect.<\/p>\n
They are often polite but reserved with strangers, meaning they won\u2019t immediately start conversations or smile at everyone.<\/p>\n
However, once you engage with them\u2014especially after a polite \u201cBonjour!\u201d\u2014you may find them warm, helpful, and even chatty.<\/p>\n
In smaller towns, people tend to be even friendlier than in big cities like Paris.<\/p>\n
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Many French people, especially in tourist areas, do speak English, but they appreciate when visitors make an effort with a few basic French phrases like “Bonjour” (hello), “Merci” (thank you), and “S’il vous pla\u00eet” (please).<\/p>\n
However, in smaller towns or less touristy areas, English is much less common, and you may need some basic French to communicate.<\/p>\n
Even a small effort goes a long way in getting better service and making a good impression!<\/p>\n
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Une publication partag\u00e9e par Anna Lamos (@annalamos)<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/blockquote>\n