20 world class French courses abroad in France, Belgium, Canada

When seeking to master French abroad, the choice of destination often reflects a desire for not just linguistic proficiency, but also cultural immersion and a refined lifestyle. Here is a list of 20 highly-regarded French language courses, ordered by the perceived prestige of their locations and institutions:

1. Cours de Civilisation Française de la Sorbonne (CCFS) in Paris, France: Located in the heart of the Latin Quarter, offering rigorous academic programs with deep cultural immersion, associated with the historic Sorbonne University.
2. Alliance Française de Paris, France: A globally recognized institution known for its high-quality teaching, extensive cultural programs, and central location.
3. Lutèce Langue in Paris, France: Highly-rated for its intensive programs and personalized approach in a vibrant Parisian setting.
4. Institut de Français in Villefranche-sur-Mer (Côte d’Azur), France: An exclusive, intensive immersion program located in a picturesque setting on the French Riviera, known for rapid progress.
5. Millefeuille Provence in Avignon area, France: Offers intensive residential immersion in a charming château in the heart of Provence, blending learning with regional gastronomy and culture.
6. ELFI – Ecole de Langue Française et d’Informatique in Geneva, Switzerland: Located in a major international city, offering intensive courses with a serious, yet personalized learning environment.
7. Swiss French School in Geneva/Lausanne, Switzerland: Known for its fast-paced, effective learning methods across multiple Swiss cities, offering a high standard of living.
8. Alliance Française de Nice, France: Situated on the French Riviera, combining serious study with the allure of a glamorous coastal city.
9. Alliance Française de Bordeaux, France: Located in a renowned wine region, offering a sophisticated cultural experience alongside language learning.
10. Alliance Française de Lyon, France: In France’s gastronomic capital, providing a rich cultural backdrop for immersive learning.
11. CERAN in Spa, Belgium: Offers highly intensive, full-immersion residential programs in a tranquil, luxurious setting, particularly popular with professionals.
12. Alliance Française de Montréal, in Canada: A reputable institution in North America’s largest French-speaking city outside of France, blending European charm with North American dynamism.
13. CLL – Centre de Langues in Brussels, Belgium: One of Belgium’s largest language schools, offering tailored French courses in the heart of the European capital.
14. Institut Richelieu in Lausanne, Switzerland: A well-established school offering intensive French courses in a beautiful lakeside city known for its quality of life.
15. Accent Français in Montpellier, France: Located in a vibrant university city in the South of France, offering a good balance of quality teaching and student life.
16. Azurlingua in Nice, France: Another strong option on the Côte d’Azur, known for its dynamic approach and diverse programs.
17. Cactus Language (various locations in France like Aix-en-Provence, Biarritz): Offers programs in desirable locations known for their beauty and cultural appeal.
18. Canadian Language Centre (CLC) in Montreal, Canada: Offers various French programs, often with cultural activities, in a bustling bilingual city.
19. Institut Touraine in Tours, France: Located in the picturesque Loire Valley, known for its châteaux and historical significance, offering a classic French immersion experience.
20. Centre International d’Antibes (CIA) in France: Situated on the French Riviera, offering a blend of serious study and seaside charm, popular for all ages.

French language schools within Saint-Tropez for exclusive summer course in France

Most language schools are located in nearby, larger cities on the French Riviera, such as Antibes, Nice, or Cannes, and offer excursions to Saint-Tropez as part of their programs. However, a few options exist for private lessons or smaller, local courses in the Saint-Tropez area.

Private Tutoring in the Saint-Tropez Area

Private tutors are very popular and flexible option in a high-demand area like Saint-Tropez.

1. Learn French in St Tropez with Cecilia Norick – This option provides flexible, one-on-one lessons tailored to the student’s needs.

Courses: Lessons are available for all levels, from beginner to advanced. They are highly customizable and focus on conversation, literature, and grammar. The tutor, Cecilia Norick, is a native speaker with a background in literature from the Sorbonne. Pricing: Specific pricing is not publicly listed and is likely provided upon request. Given the private, customized nature of the lessons, expect prices to be higher than group classes. Start Dates: Courses are available all year round, and lessons can be scheduled to fit your personal calendar. You can also start courses before you arrive via online sessions.

2. French Courses in Saint-Tropez with Caroline – Caroline offers private and small-group lessons in the idyllic village of Gassin, located right in the heart of the Saint-Tropez peninsula.

Courses: Offers quality tutoring at all levels, from beginners (A1) to advanced (C2). The courses are described as an “immersion experience” with a local expert. Pricing: Pricing is available upon contacting Caroline directly. Start Dates: Weekly or monthly training courses are offered from April through October.

Language Schools Near St. Tropez

For a more traditional school environment with a wider variety of courses and fixed schedules, you’ll need to look at nearby towns. These schools often offer excursions to Saint-Tropez.

1. The Centre International d’Antibes – Located in Antibes, this is a well-established school that offers a full range of courses for adults and teens. Courses:Standard Course: 20 French lessons per week. Intensive Course: 30 French lessons per week. Special Programs: Courses for seniors, families, and programs that combine French lessons with cooking and wine tasting.

Pricing: For adults, prices start from around €339 per week (for a stay of 5 weeks or more). Juniors’ all-inclusive language camps start from around €700 per week. Start Dates: The school operates year-round with continuous start dates for most courses.

2. French Institute of Saint-Raphaël – Located in Saint-Raphaël, a town approximately 45 minutes from Saint-Tropez, this school offers a variety of courses with optional accommodation. Courses: Group Lessons: Available for adults and juniors, with 6 to 10 students per class. One-to-One Lessons: Private tutoring sessions are available.

Pricing: An “all-inclusive” stay with 30 lessons and accommodation for 20 nights is around €1,900. Rates for other courses are available upon request. Start Dates: The school operates year-round.