Love in France

Yes, as cliché as it might sound, the French are known for being romantic.

Everything starts with a kiss—but in France, a kiss can be just that, a kiss. French culture embraces kissing. It's entirely normal to see men greet each other with cheek kisses (pecks) at work, on the street, or in a café. The same goes for women and everyone. 

Public displays of affection are common. Couples fondly kissing on the streets, in restaurants, or on café terraces is part of everyday life. Passionate kisses are how the French do it.

Understanding “Je t’aime”

Be aware that je t'aime can mean two things:

The long-awaited "I love you."
A casual "I like you," depending on context and a broken heart sometimes.


When the French like you, they'll show it—through flirtation, a lingering gaze, a thoughtful touch, or even a bouquet of flowers.

Interestingly, there isn't a direct French word for "dating." The word "dating", as understood in other cultures, doesn't quite exist here. The term rendez-vous is used instead, but it applies to any meeting—whether with a doctor, a colleague, a friend, or even your sports instructor. And your soon-to-be wife as well. 

Being overly eager in a budding romance is better avoided. The French prefer a more subtle, restrained approach to relationships.

Le Cinq à Sept. The cinq à sept—literally "5 to 7" or "sex o'clock"—is an intriguing aspect of French culture. While someone might think you are meeting a friend for an apéro, you might be occupied somewhere else. 

Relationships are private. While it's not uncommon to share stories about your partner at work (even how your night went, as my dear Parisian friend explained, they do during their breakfast coffee), the finer details of your love life often remain behind closed doors.

France is known for its liberal attitude towards sex. This openness is reflected in everything from conversations to the presence of condom vending machines in schools and next to pharmacies.

Physical touch is a cornerstone of affection in France. The more, the better. The French communicate fondness through casual touches that contribute to the connection they value so deeply.