Ignoring This Escalator Etiquette In France Is Bound To Get You Some Irritated Looks

Like many big cities, French city culture thrives on a balance of leisure and speed, allowing for the successful cohabitation of casual tourists and busy locals. Nowhere is this more evident than on public transportation, with newcomers trying to figure out where to go while a rushing river of commuters zoom past. In this hectic situation, nothing will get you a side-eye faster than not keeping to the right side if you are standing still on an escalator.

Parisian public transport operator RATP explains that the rule was first imposed by the London underground transportation system in 1911, and then spread to other major cities. The RATP issues reminders of this point of etiquette all along your travels via loudspeaker announcements, signs, and even with a hint of humor on TikTok, in an effort to keep the 12 million passengers per day flowing smoothly. If you are standing, stay on the right side of the escalators to let those who wish to pass you walk on the left. 

While locals may be more forgiving in other settings, the rule applies just the same all over France, to any escalator, in department stores, offices, or public buildings. By extension to the same principle, never suddenly stop at the end of the escalator. If you're unsure of which way to go, step off the escalator fully and skitter to the side so you can pause to check directions without blocking the way. Nothing irritates more than a sudden standstill at the end of an escalator. The same applies to flat "trottoirs roulants" (moving walkways). If you hear "pardon" behind you, try to scooch a little tighter to the right — it's a polite way of signaling that you're breaking the code.

Several other little gestures that may seem small, if taken together, will show your consideration for social etiquette norms in France, and keep your travel experience smooth. For starters, have your ticket or pass ready before you get to the turnstiles. Fumbling at the last minute while a line builds up behind you is stressful, and is something tourists should never do while visiting. Redditor u/ParisTravelGuide recommends standing to the side of doors before boarding the metro, trams, or buses, so that you let passengers exit first before attempting to step inside. Trying to push your way through while people are still descending is a guaranteed way to annoy locals. 

The Redditor also recommends lifting the fold-down jump seats on trains during rush hour. These temporary seats are convenient when there is enough room for everyone, but when the train gets packed, standing passengers expect them to be tucked away so more people can fit comfortably. If you don't, it will be seen as inconsiderate and may raise some French eyebrows. Likewise, keeping your phone quiet is appreciated, as French people generally keep their voices down on public transportation. Talking loudly on your phone — or worse, using speaker mode — stands out immediately and can earn you glares from fellow riders.

Be mindful that you are sharing the space with people with disabilities. On the same subReddit, u/Alixana527 adds, "[if] you see a double set of raised lines, they are not an invitation to park your suitcase, stroller, or self between them!" The lines are an aid for visually-impaired travelers, so be sure not to block them. Finally, watch your bags, especially backpacks. Swing them in front of you on crowded trains. This not only avoids bumping unintentionally into someone, but it also helps protect against pickpockets.