PronunciationHub — a Field Guide
Greetings & goodbyes About Contact Random

A guide to saying it like a local

How to Say "Get home safe" in French

Wish someone a safe journey home after they leave your place or a gathering.

Bonne route !

buhn ROOTneutral

A single phrase, broken down

Tap to hear:

French TTS · 0:01

Say this as someone is leaving your home or a party. It's a polite way to acknowledge their departure and wish them well on their way.

Alternatives

  • Bon retour !Use when someone is returning home, not leaving.
  • Rentrez bien !A slightly more direct way to say 'get home safely'.

Ways to get it wrong

Pronouncing 'route' like 'rout'

The final 'e' in 'route' is silent, but the 'ou' sound is long and rounded.

Confusing 'bonne' and 'bon'

'Bonne' is feminine, agreeing with 'route', which is a feminine noun.

A small cultural note

While 'Bonne route !' is common, 'Bonne soirée !' (Have a good evening!) or 'Bonne nuit !' (Good night!) might be used if the person is leaving later in the evening.

The same phrase in other languages

Frequently asked

What's the difference between 'Bonne route' and 'Bon retour'?

'Bonne route' is for when someone is leaving to go home. 'Bon retour' is for when someone is returning home after being away.

Can I use 'Bonne route' for someone driving a long distance?

Yes, it's perfectly suitable for any journey home, whether it's a short drive or a longer trip.

Is 'Bonne route' always said when someone leaves?

It's a common and polite gesture, especially when you've been hosting them or they are leaving your vicinity.