Do you people have any clever advice to get a table at a busy cafe???

Ask a host or waiter?

key word BUSY

Wait. Really.

Don't just sit yourself down. Wait for the wiater, say "bonjour", say "pour une/deux/trois personnes" and let him find you a table.

OK - what am I missing? The cafe is busy - i.e. all the tables are occupied - and you want a table? Wait for one. seems obvious enough.

Hi hypatia, first of all what country and cities/towns?

A busy cafe..if they do not have any empty tables you wait or talk to the waiter or host, walk around a bit and come back. But most places have lots of cafes so if one does not have an empty table just wander around until you find one that does. It is different that making a reservations at a very well known and popular restaurant for dinner.

than making..I hit "post my reply" before I was finished posting, lol.

Anyway hypatia, again I do not know where you will be in Europe but I am sure you will find you will not have a problem with cafes. Best regards.

I was not trying to be funny above. I've seen people stand around and try to beat each other to tables. But let a waiter know you're waiting, and he will most likely look out for one for you, and even chase others away if they try to sneak in ahead of you. It's not difficult.

ok so basically it's like a london pub.There is pub etiquette..if several parties are waiting....just plain patience....tres simple thanks