French Vocab-Travel: Getting Around and Directions

December 16, 2025 | By Current Catch
French Vocab-Travel: Getting Around and Directions

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 NounEnglish MeaningNotes
Le trainThe train*Prendre le train* (To take the train)
Le bus / Le métroThe bus / The subway*L'arrêt de bus* (The bus stop)
L'aéroport (m.)The airport*La gare* (Train station)
Un billet / Un ticketA ticket*Un aller-retour* (A return ticket)
Le quaiThe platform*Quelle est la voie ?* (What is the track number?)
La sortieThe exitAlways 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 TermEnglish MeaningUse
TournerTo turn*Tournez à droite/gauche* (Turn right/left)
Continuer / Aller tout droitTo continue / To go straight*Continuez jusqu'à la place* (Continue until the square)
TraverserTo cross*Traversez la rue* (Cross the street)
En face deAcross fromPrès de (Near) / Loin de (Far from)
Au coin deOn 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.

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French Travel Vocabulary Guide & Worksheet Generator | Educational tool for French language learners

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