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.
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Contents
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 during the day or bonsoir in the evening is a cultural basic. Skip the greeting and you risk being seen as rude, however friendly your intentions.
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.
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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.
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.
French meals can be leisurely affairs, particularly at weekends or when entertaining guests. A traditional meal might include a starter, main course, cheese and dessert, although everyday family meals are often simpler. When cheese is served as a separate course, it usually comes before dessert, with coffee often enjoyed afterwards.
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.
Planning to change the colour of your shutters, install a swimming pool or extend your property? Depending on the work and local planning rules, you may need to submit a prior declaration (déclaration préalable) or apply for a building permit (permis de construire). Your mairie is the place to check before getting started. It's also a useful source of information about bin collections, local activities and community events, particularly in smaller villages.
The mairie can also be a useful first point of contact if you have questions about local regulations or problems such as noise. However, private property disputes involving boundaries or rights of way may require advice from a notaire, surveyor or legal specialist. If you're unsure about the rules, it's always worth asking before carrying out 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 has 11 national public holidays, many rooted in history or religion. Some regions have additional holidays, including Alsace-Moselle, where 26 December and, in certain communes, Good Friday are also observed. Schools, banks and public services often close on these dates, although not every public holiday is automatically a day off work. Some of the main jours fériés include:
- 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 best-known national celebration is Bastille Day on 14 July, which commemorates the French Revolution, particularly the storming of the Bastille in 1789 and the Fête de la Fédération in 1790. Expect fireworks, parades and communal celebrations, with festivities taking place in towns and villages across France.
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 celebrations in France have plenty in common with those in the UK, but there are some differences. Many families gather on Christmas Eve for le réveillon, a special meal that can stretch late into the evening. Depending on the region and family traditions, the menu might include oysters, foie gras, roast poultry and bûche de Noël (Yule log). Other families save their main celebration for Christmas Day.
Christmas tables are often decorated with candles, greenery and festive centrepieces. In Provence, some families follow the tradition of serving 13 desserts on Christmas Eve, representing Jesus and his 12 apostles. As for presents, some families exchange gifts on Christmas Eve, while others wait until Christmas morning.
Then, as the Christmas festivities wind down, Epiphany arrives on 6 January. It's traditionally celebrated by sharing a galette des rois, usually a puff pastry cake filled with frangipane, although southern France has its own brioche-style versions. Hidden inside is a small charm called a fève. Whoever finds it is crowned king or queen for the day, often with a paper crown supplied by the bakery.
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.
FAQs about French customs and culture
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.
‘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.
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.
Traditional French meals may include several courses, particularly on special occasions, although everyday meals are often simpler. Lunch is commonly eaten between noon and 2pm, with dinner generally starting around 7pm or later. Cheese is traditionally served before dessert, and coffee often follows the meal.
The mairie (town hall) is an important part of local life in France. It's where you can enquire about planning permission, local regulations and community services. It can also direct you to the right people for help with property-related questions, although private legal disputes may require specialist advice.
