For many, apps, movies, or taking local classes are the perfect first step on a language journey. However, if you truly want to learn the language and immerse yourself in French local culture, we think there’s no better way to do it than by taking one of the many world-class language courses right here in the City of Lights!
To help you pick the right one for you, we’ve put together this guide to five of Paris’s best language courses.
Things to Consider Before Choosing a Language Course
Before choosing a language learning course in Paris, you might want to consider the following:
- Location: Where will you be staying in Paris? Can you easily access the classes?
- Class size: Are you looking for a larger class or one-on-one learning?
- Learning goals: Do you plan to work or study in France? Is there a time limit on getting to a certain level?
- Flexibility: Do you want lessons to fit around your schedule, or can you commit to full-time study?
- Price: Are you willing to pay more to attend a prestigious school or are you looking for the most economical option?
The Best French Language Courses in Paris
1. Alliance Française de Paris
With over 800 establishments in over 133 countries, Alliance Française is probably the most well-known of all French language schools. Alliance Française de Paris, the oldest of their institutions, offers both short and intensive courses, as well as cultural activities, immersions, homestays, and workshops to cater to every level.
Address: 101 Bd Raspail, 75006 Paris
What we like:
- Great for every level: Has something for everyone, whether you’re just starting out or an advanced learner.
- Cultural events: French movie festivals, excursions, and other cultural experiences are always on offer.
- Global presence: With establishments all over the world, you can continue learning wherever you are.
What we don’t like:
- Pace of learning: Some learners may find the teaching style too slow and casual.
- Inconsistent experience: Due to its size, course quality can be inconsistent.
- Too much English: English is often used in classrooms, so it’s not ideal if you want an immersive experience.
Who should take this course: People at all levels of French who want a course that’s well-structured and well-regarded.
Course pricing: Month-long courses range from €385 for 16 hours of classes up to €1400 for 72 hours.
2. Cours de Civilisation Française de la Sorbonne (CCFS)
If you’ve ever dreamed of studying like a real Parisian, it is hard to beat attending one of Paris’s most prestigious universities, the Sorbonne. The Cours de Civilisation Française de la Sorbonne (CCFS) offers language learning courses that focus on preparing students to enter French university courses or businesses. The CCFS are renowned for the intensity and rigour of its language courses, which also emphasize French culture and academic heritage.
Address: 7-11 Av. des Chasseurs, 75017 Paris
What we like:
- Rigorous curriculum: Courses adhere to international standards set by the Common European Framework of Languages (CEFL).
- Specialized modules: Workshops on topics like gastronomy, business, and art history make for interesting and immersive learning.
- Set up for success: CCFS is an approved examination centre, so you can easily take language certificates and exams such as DELF, DALF, TLF and DFP.
What we don’t like:
- Limited flexibility: Courses are only offered by semester or year.
- Not for the casual learner: Intensive courses may not be suitable for someone looking for a relaxed approach.
- Price: CCFS is one of the more expensive options on our list.
Who should take this course: People who are planning to study or work in France and who thrive in a rigorous learning environment.
Course pricing: A general semester of 150 hours over 12 weeks costs €2400, while an intensive course of 300 hours over 12 weeks costs €4800.
3. Institut de Langue et de Culture Françaises (ILCF)
Founded by the Institut Catholique de Paris, the Institut de Langue et de Culture Françaises (ILCF) has a proud history of promoting French as a foreign language. With a faculty of qualified and experienced teachers, the ILCF offers annual, semester-long, monthly, evening, or Saturday French courses to suit any schedule.
Address: 21 Rue d’Assas, 75270 Paris
What we like:
- Multiple course options: Able to accommodate any student’s schedule.
- Pathway to further study: Pathways are available to earning the Diplôme Universitaire d’Etudes Françaises (DUEF), a diploma in French language studies recognized across France.
- University life: Enjoy access to university cafeterias and restaurants, discounts on cultural activities, and on-campus conferences and events for free.
What we don’t like:
- Limited French culture: Less of an emphasis on French cultural experiences and activities.
- Large class size: Classes of up to 18 people, which may not suit everyone’s learning style.
- Longer progression: Language levels take six months or more, which is longer than other courses.
Who should take this course: People who enjoy the structure of a university and want to leverage their studies into a degree.
Course pricing: Prices range from 12 hours a month at €670, to a full year of 20-hour weeks at €6560.
4. Ville de Paris – Cours d’Adultes de Paris (CAP)
Offered by Ville de Paris, the Cours d’Adultes de Paris (CAP) offers a series of adult education courses, including some dedicated to French. Held at over 40 schools and town halls across Paris, these courses aim to give people of all nationalities and backgrounds “greater knowledge of the French language and therefore greater autonomy in the city.”
Address: Various across Paris
What we like:
- Paris-centric: Learning is focused on the history and prominent figures of this amazing city.
- Affordability: One of the most economical options.
- Accessibility: Lots of locations across Paris, so it’s easy to find one near you.
What we don’t like:
- Difficult to register: It can be difficult to get a place in the course.
- Limited talking: Focuses on grammar and vocabulary as opposed to conversation.
- Larger class sizes: Classes can have 20 people or more.
Who should take this course: People who want an affordable, community-focused approach to learning.
Course pricing: Courses of 120 hours are offered for only €300.
5. Lutece Langue – Paris
This is the newest course on our list, having only been around since 1997. Lutece Langue boasts a more personalized approach with smaller classes, French taught using French teaching methods, and an emphasis on grammar and vocabulary through speaking practice.
Address: 6 Rue les Cases, 75007 Paris
What we like:
- Affordable: A more wallet-friendly option.
- Small classes: Classes of 3-8 people mean more individual attention.
- Range of learning options: In-person, online, and blended classes are on offer to fit your schedule.
What we don’t like:
- Lesser known: As a newer course, it may not hold as much weight on a resume or job application.
- Difficult to register: Smaller class sizes mean it can be difficult to get the class you want.
- Fewer extracurriculars: Compared to other language schools, Lutece offers fewer cultural experiences and events.
Who should take this course: People who want a personal, flexible approach to learning.
Course pricing: In-person classes range from 3 hours for €76 to 15 hours for €280.
Final Thoughts
While we’ve highlighted five great language courses on offer in the City of Lights, there’s no shortage of language courses and schools in Paris. That means you’re sure to find one that suits your unique goals, schedule, and budget.
To make the most out of these courses, we recommend you take advantage of all the extras on offer, such as student discounts, cultural events, and excursions. Not only does this give you more opportunities to flex your new language skills, but it can also make your learning journey much more fun!
Want to build your skills first? Check out the five best apps for learning French.
An Australian freelance writer living in Paris, Joe Ciliberto has a background in international relations and renewable energy. He is passionate about gastronomy, politics, travel, and finding the best cold brew coffee in Paris.
