Thinking of buying a home in France or spending part of the year soaking up the laid-back lifestyle? You’re not alone. France is one of the most popular European destinations for overseas buyers – and for good reason. But while the baguettes, fine wine and beautiful scenery might feel instantly familiar, the French customs and culture may surprise you.
From the art of greetings to mealtime rituals and community life, French culture is a rich tapestry of tradition, regional quirks and strong social values. Understanding how things work here not only helps you avoid awkward moments but also earns you the respect of your neighbours.
This guide explores the key aspects of French lifestyles and traditions that buyers and new residents should know – from etiquette to celebrations and the vital role of your local mairie.
Contents
- Greetings and social etiquette
- Formalities of the French language
- Meal times and dining culture
- Family values and community spirit
- The role of the mairie
- Public holidays and festivals
- Celebrating Christmas and Epiphany
- Frequently asked questions
When it comes to French customs and culture, knowing when to kiss is important
Greetings and social etiquette
If you only learn one thing about French customs and culture, make it this: greetings matter. A great deal. Whether you’re popping into a bakery or chatting to a new neighbour, acknowledging others with a “Bonjour” (before midday) or “Bonsoir” (in the evening) is a cultural basic. Ignore this and you risk being seen as rude, no matter how friendly your demeanour.
One of the most iconic – and potentially confusing – traditions is la bise, the famous cheek-kissing custom. Don’t worry, it’s not mandatory for everyone you meet. Between work colleagues and acquaintances, a firm handshake is still common. But friends and sometimes even new neighbours may greet you with two, three or four air kisses (depending on region) – alternating cheeks. You’ll quickly learn which side to go for first to avoid a clumsy bump.
When meeting someone for the first time, formality is key. Start with “vous” instead of “tu” until invited to switch – using the familiar form too soon can be taken as a sign of disrespect. Small pleasantries go a long way in France, not least because French society places value on good manners, humility and attention to tone.
Formalities of the French language
The French language carries layers of formality that you won’t routinely encounter in English. One of the biggest stumbling blocks for newcomers is deciding whether to use “tu” (informal “you”) or “vous” (formal “you”). Get this wrong and you risk overstepping social boundaries.
As a rule of thumb, always begin with “vous”, particularly when addressing strangers, older people or anyone in a service role. A waiter, local official or even your plumber will usually expect to be addressed formally. The exception? Small children, or close friends and family once you’ve built rapport.
Equally important are traditional titles. Use “Monsieur” or “Madame” liberally – not only is it polite, it shows you are trying to engage respectfully. You’ll rarely hear “mademoiselle” (a historically younger or unmarried woman’s title) outside casual settings – many companies have now removed it from official forms.
In your new life in France, learning even a little French – even imperfectly – is deeply appreciated. Locals respond warmly to genuine effort and are often happy to help you learn the ropes. Basic grammar and social finesse will get you further here than perfect pronunciation.
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Meal times and dining culture
If there’s one ritual around which French customs and culture you need to honour, it’s the mealtime. Lunch and dinner aren’t just about eating – they’re about connection, rhythm and respect. Mealtimes tend to follow clear patterns: lunch between 12pm–2pm and dinner around 7pm or later. Businesses, small shops and even some post offices still close for the midday break.
Meals at home are unhurried, with courses served separately: a starter, main, cheese and dessert. Cheese comes before dessert, not after – it’s a savoury course, not a stringy afterthought. Coffee follows dessert, often black and rarely served with milk.
One unique custom is the apéritif, or “apéro” – a pre-dinner drink served with small snacks or nibbles. It’s a beloved social moment that can happen anywhere, from a neighbour’s porch to a public square. When invited, don’t arrive empty-handed. A bottle of wine, olives or a simple treat is a thoughtful gesture.
French food is considered a way of life, not just a necessity. Whether tucking into a rustic cassoulet in the southwest or sampling a sweet galette in January, you’ll find that France’s culinary culture is also a language in itself.
Family values and community spirit
Family life holds strong cultural weight in France. Different generations often live close to one another, sometimes even in the same home. It’s normal for grandparents to be deeply involved in raising children, and meals are communal whenever possible. Unlike in some places where teenagers head straight for independence, French families often maintain close inter-generational ties well into adulthood.
The sense of community is also vivid, especially in rural areas. Small towns and villages are centres of local life – where everyone knows your name, news travels quickly, and events bring people together. If you’re moving to the countryside or a smaller town, you’ll likely find your neighbours helpful, curious and keen for conversation. You’ll also be expected to contribute your share of courtesy and involvement.
Events like town fetes, harvest festivals, concerts and brocantes (flea markets) form the cultural backbone of community life. They offer a great opportunity for newcomers to get involved, make friends and feel part of the local rhythm. You don’t have to speak fluent French to join in – goodwill and enthusiasm are the main requirements.
The role of the mairie
Your local town hall – the mairie – may become more important than you expect. In France, the mairie is not just an administrative office. It’s a nerve centre for permits, planning, social life and problem-solving. If you’re buying a property, especially a rural one, your first contact with the mairie should happen sooner rather than later.
Need to apply for planning permission to repaint shutters or install a pool? That goes through your mairie. Trying to find the bin collection schedule, join a yoga class or enquire about volunteer opportunities? The same. The mayor (or deputy) is often well-connected and happy to help new arrivals adjust and integrate – particularly in smaller communes where community ties remain strong.
Local disputes – noise complaints, right of passage questions, even occasional boundary disagreements – are often resolved here before things escalate to legal proceedings. It’s always better to seek friendly advice at the mairie before making assumptions or acting unilaterally, especially with building or renovation work.
Outside the building, noticeboards offer a goldmine of information. Everything from upcoming events to lost pets, job offers and hiking groups can be found here. It’s worth popping by regularly for a glimpse into the village’s heartbeat.
Public holidays and festivals
France officially recognises 11 national public holidays, and many are rooted in history or religion. These holidays are widely observed, with schools, banks and many public services typically closing. You’ll likely come across jour fériés such as:
- 1st January: New Year’s Day
- 1st May: Labour Day
- 8th May: VE Day
- 14th July: Bastille Day
- 1st November: All Saints’ Day
- 11th November: Armistice Day
- 25th December: Christmas Day
When a holiday falls on a Tuesday or Thursday, many workers take the bridging day – known as faire le pont (making the bridge) – resulting in a long weekend. Don’t be surprised if shops or services close around these dates too.
The most famous celebration is Bastille Day on 14th July. This marks the 1789 storming of the Bastille and is seen as the birth of the modern French nation. Expect fireworks, parades, and communal meals – from Paris to village squares.
Another beautiful grassroots tradition is the Fête des Voisins (Neighbour’s Day), held at the end of May. It’s a chance for people to gather over food and drinks and check in with neighbours. It’s especially important in supporting those who live alone.
Celebrating Christmas and Epiphany
Christmas in France is wonderfully festive, but don’t expect it to mirror UK traditions exactly. French customs and culture are different, as you may expect. The main event here is 24th December – Christmas Eve – where families enjoy a long and elegant dinner known as Le Réveillon. The meal starts late and can go on for hours, with foie gras, oysters, roast meats and the famous bûche de Noël (Yule log cake) commonly appearing.
It’s common to see tables decorated with candles, seasonal greens and symbolic touches – some households tie the tablecloth corners to ward off evil spirits or set an extra place for an unexpected guest. Gifts are usually exchanged that evening rather than on Christmas morning.
Then, just as festivities wind down, another celebration arrives on 6th January: Epiphany. This is marked with a pastry called the galette des rois – a flaky puff pastry filled with almond paste and baked with a hidden trinket (called a fève) inside. Whoever finds it becomes king or queen for the day and must buy the next year’s cake.
These traditions are steeped in family warmth and charming customs. They’re worth embracing – and offer a soft yet joyful start to the new year.
What’s next?
Moving to or owning property in France isn’t just about getting the keys – it’s about stepping into a way of life built on respect, rhythm and community. Understanding French traditions adds depth to your experience and helps you connect with neighbours on their terms, not just your own.
Whether you’re brushing up on cheek-kissing customs or learning how to navigate the local mairie, remember this: the more curious and open you are, the more rewarding your time in France will be.
Looking for support on your French property journey? Speak to our property consultants to get expert guidance and begin your next chapter in France with confidence.
Frequently asked questions about French customs and culture
Do I need to greet people when entering shops in France?
Yes. Saying “Bonjour” or “Bonsoir” when entering shops or interacting with locals is essential. It’s seen as basic courtesy, and skipping it may be viewed as rude—even if unintentional.
What is ‘la bise’ in French culture?
‘La bise’ is the cheek-kissing greeting between friends, family or acquaintances. The number of kisses varies by region, but it’s not required in formal or professional settings where a handshake is often preferred.
Should I use ‘tu’ or ‘vous’ when speaking French?
Start with “vous” in all formal situations, when meeting someone new, or when speaking to professionals. Use “tu” only after being invited to do so. Using “vous” shows respect and helps avoid social missteps.
How are meals structured in France?
French meals are typically multi-course and unhurried. Lunch is usually 12–2pm and dinner starts around 7–8pm. Cheese is served before dessert, and coffee follows—usually without milk. Mealtimes are an important social ritual.
What is the role of the mairie in French communities?
The mairie (town hall) is the administrative heart of local life. It handles planning permissions, organises community events, and serves as a hub for services like bin collection, permits and local disputes. It’s worth visiting regularly.
