Vocab-Travel: Getting Around
Essential Phrases for Transportation, Directions, and Maps
The Basics: Key Nouns for Public Transport
Mastering a few key vocabulary words can drastically improve your ability to navigate French cities.
| French Noun | English Meaning | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Le train | The train | *Prendre le train* (To take the train) |
| Le bus / Le métro | The bus / The subway | *L'arrêt de bus* (The bus stop) |
| L'aéroport (m.) | The airport | *La gare* (Train station) |
| Un billet / Un ticket | A ticket | *Un aller-retour* (A return ticket) |
| Le quai | The platform | *Quelle est la voie ?* (What is the track number?) |
| La sortie | The exit | Always look for this sign! |
1. Asking for Directions (Politely!)
Always start with a polite address (Excusez-moi, Madame/Monsieur) before asking your question.
Key Question Phrases
- Où se trouve... ? (Where is...?) - Best for fixed locations.
- Comment aller à... ? (How do I get to...?) - For asking for the route.
- C'est loin d'ici ? (Is it far from here?) - For checking distance.
2. Understanding Directions: Verbs and Prepositions
You need to recognize the common verbs and prepositions used when someone gives you directions.
| French Term | English Meaning | Use |
|---|---|---|
| Tourner | To turn | *Tournez à droite/gauche* (Turn right/left) |
| Continuer / Aller tout droit | To continue / To go straight | *Continuez jusqu'à la place* (Continue until the square) |
| Traverser | To cross | *Traversez la rue* (Cross the street) |
| En face de | Across from | Près de (Near) / Loin de (Far from) |
| Au coin de | On the corner of | *Le musée est au coin de la rue.* |
Travel & Directions Worksheet Generator
Practice using essential travel vocabulary in context for your next trip.
Your generated worksheet will appear here. Click "Generate Worksheet" to begin.