French course locations in France – fantastic options for all tastes

Below are our destination recommendations to suit various interests.

1. The outdoor enthusiast

France is a country that is well suited to outdoor enthusiasts. There are endless options for outdoor pursuits, whether you like surfing, skiing, biking, hiking or an array of other activities. One of the regions which is most synonymous with this though, and which offers perhaps the greatest variety of activities, is the Alps, and the area around Chamonix and Annecy specifically. Whether you go in summer or winter there will be a wealth of pursuits for you to enjoy in conjunction with a French course.

2. The culture vulture

If you were asked to choose one place in Europe that is most revered as a cultural centre, you’d probably say Paris. Paris is known the world over for its arts and culture, and has been for centuries. You will quite simply be spoilt for choice when it comes to museums, galleries, cinemas and theatres, and you’ll probably stumble upon a festival or two as well.

3. The beach lover

France has no shortage of coastline, and stunning coastline at that. From the wide, sandy beaches in the north to the palm-fringed beaches and turquoise waters of the Mediterranean in the south, there is something for all tastes. Antibes is a lovely, compact resort on the Côte d’Azur that is known as an upmarket yet traditional place, and Biarritz is a chic and trendy surfer’s paradise on the Basque coast. Both offer fantastic options for beach lovers who want to study in the morning and soak up the sun in the afternoons.

4. The foodie

Let’s face it, France was made for foodies. No matter where you go in the country, you’re guaranteed some delicious food, but there’s one place in particular that has gained a reputation as the nation’s gastronomic centre, and that’s Lyon. Aside from the many Michelin-starred restaurants, Lyon is also well known for its ‘bouchon’ restaurants, family-run and unpretentious establishments that serve traditional bistro-type food. If you’re more interested in wine than food, the definite choice for a French course would be Bordeaux, the centre of one of France’s premier wine-growing regions.

5. The history buff

France has a long and interesting history, but one place with particular historic significance is the city of Rouen. Perhaps Rouen’s most famous historical association is Jeanne d’Arc, but the wider Normandy region has plenty more history to explore too – from the stunning basilica in Lisieux to the Normandy landing beaches and the coastal retreats where Monet got so much of his inspiration. 

6. The party animal

There are many French cities which offer a lively and varied nightlife, but one in particular is Montpellier. As a university city, it easily caters for the students who live there, offering an impressive array of bars, clubs and restaurants. Another place with good nightlife is Nice, although this can be more expensive, and generally only applies to the summer season. 

7. The student on a budget

As is the case in any country, some of the more popular French locations can be a little on the pricey side – Paris and Nice in particular. There are plenty of interesting and accessible locations that are more affordable though, one of which is Brest. Located in Brittany, in the northeast of France, it is a thriving university city on the coast with plenty of entertainment options but fewer visitors than its Mediterranean counterparts. This actually adds to its appeal as a French course destination as you’re likely to have more opportunity to practise the language.

8. The artist

Aix en Provence enjoys an idyllic setting in the countryside of Provence. It epitomizes the image that foreigners have of this region, and its setting and light have long made it a popular destination amongst artists – Paul Cézanne being the most famous. During a stay in Aix you can visit the atelier that became his shelter and place of work, stroll along the streets that were such an inspiration to him, and even have a go at painting yourself. 

Find full details of Cactus’ French course in France on the Cactus Language website