Why go
Paris rewards small signs of courtesy. Saying bonjour when entering a shop, using excusez-moi to get attention, and keeping luggage out of the way signal that you recognise the setting as a shared local space rather than a tourist stage.
The full story
Courtesy in Paris is often expressed before the practical business of an interaction begins. A simple bonjour on entering a shop acknowledges the person working there; excusez-moi is useful when asking for attention, and pardon or je suis désolé fits an accidental bump. French also distinguishes between informal tu and formal vous, with vous being the safer choice for someone you do not know. These gestures do not guarantee a particular response, but they show the consideration expected in daily life. The same principle applies on the Métro and RER. Doors and aisles need to remain clear, luggage should not occupy seats, and passengers near a door may need to step onto the platform briefly so others can leave. Paris can feel hurried, particularly at peak times. Taking a moment to greet people and make space generally reads better than assuming a quick transaction needs no social opening.
Useful to know
- Begin shop and service interactions with bonjour, then use excusez-moi before asking for help.
- Use vous with people you do not know when speaking French; it is the standard polite form.
- Keep luggage, bags and your body clear of doors, aisles and folding seats on busy trains.