You’ve decided to study abroad, and you know that France - the capital of style, culture, and cuisine - is the perfect destination for you.
There are many options when it comes to choosing a city to study in. From the unique charm of Paris to the stunning beaches of Nice, each city has its own personality and offers unique opportunities for study abroad programs.
Here are 9 of the best French cities for studying abroad:
1 - Paris
The "City of Love" is not just a perfect place for a honeymoon. The number of amazing museums, parks, bakeries, and cafes will make you fall in love with it! While Paris is by far the most expensive French city to study in, if you can manage it, you won’t regret it. Whether you’re grabbing a chocolate croissant from a corner bakery or standing in front of the Mona Lisa, you’ll constantly be experiencing little moments of joy.
Popular programs for adults in Paris.
2 – Nice
Located on the southern coast of France, the French Riviera, Nice is a chic blend of classical and modern architecture. The beaches, palm trees, and Mediterranean climate make it one of the most popular study destinations in France. After a busy day of studying, head to the Promenade des Anglais, a 19th-century walkway leading to the sea and a gateway to the sights of Nice. Don’t miss the Cours Saleya, a popular fruit, vegetable, and flower market throughout the city.
3 – Grenoble
Home to five universities and a large international student population. While the atmosphere is a bit more subdued than in a city like Paris, Grenoble is a great place to immerse yourself and learn French as best as you can. When you're not studying, skiing and snowboarding are great ways to relax.
4 – Lyon
France’s third-largest city, Lyon features ancient Roman buildings dating back to 43 BC when the city was founded. Exploring the well-preserved remnants of the culture is an interesting activity when taking a break from reading. Today, the "Capital of Lights" attracts students interested in studying economics, art history enthusiasts, and architecture admirers. Regardless of what you study, though, you must eat, and fortunately, Lyon is renowned for being the center of French gastronomy.
5 – Cannes
Known for its famous film festival, it is also a tech hub that some consider a mini Silicon Valley. Cannes is a relatively small city with fewer than 100,000 residents, but you definitely won’t get bored here. Take a quick boat ride to Île Sainte-Marguerite to visit the prison where the Man in the Iron Mask was held. Come back and walk along Rue Meynadier. Try some fried zucchini flowers (a specialty throughout the Côte d'Azur), sometimes stuffed with cream cheese and seasoned with salt, parsley, and garlic.
6 – Bordeaux
Wine tourists flock to Bordeaux, located in southwestern France, every year, but don’t let the number of tourists distract you from practicing your French both in and out of class! Besides wine, this city offers delicious pastries. Take a break from studying and walk along the banks of the Garonne River, then explore the wine capital, which is on UNESCO’s World Heritage list for its urban architecture.
7 – Montpellier
In one of the most beautiful regions of southern France, between the Mediterranean and the mountains, Montpellier offers sea, sun, and beaches, as well as the opportunity to discover all the treasures of southern France: Provence and the various landscapes of Camargue, Cevennes, or the Pyrenees-Orientales. This is a rapidly growing city known for its universities, as about a quarter of its residents are students.
Popular program in Montpellier for students.
8 – Strasbourg
Is it France or is it Germany? You might wonder as you eat a plate of choucroute, a variety of sauerkraut. Although it is a French city, it is influenced by German culture. French is spoken with a mild German accent, and some locals still speak Alsatian, a local dialect. If you want to immerse yourself in both German and French culture, Strasbourg will be the ideal city for you!
9- Normandie
Normandy is part of northern France, known for its natural beauty, attractions, and rich history and culture. The Duchy of Normandy exudes tranquility and beauty with its lush landscapes, traditional settlements, and lovely beaches.
Popular program in Normandy for students.
