Summer in France is more than a season; it’s an invitation to experience the country’s heart and soul at its most vibrant. For international students eyeing an educational adventure, choosing to live and study in France during this season brings a multitude of benefits.
Let’s explore the perks of summertime in France, along with a few considerations, the best places to visit, activities to engage in, and the ideal student persona that thrives in this season.
Pros of the Season
- Festivals and Events: The summer months are packed with a variety of festivals, from music and film to local celebrations that reflect France’s rich cultural heritage, including the famous Jazz in Marciac and Avignon Theatre Festival.
- Perfect Weather for Exploration: Enjoy warm temperatures and extended daylight hours, ideal for discovering France’s beaches, parks, and numerous outdoor attractions. Summer is when the country’s natural and urban landscapes can be experienced in their full glory.
- Vibrant Social Scene: Summer brings out the best in French social life. Cafés, beaches, and riversides become bustling hubs of activity, offering students countless opportunities to mingle and create lasting memories.
Cons of the Season
- Peak Tourist Season: With summer attracting tourists worldwide, expect crowded landmarks and higher prices, especially in popular destinations like Paris, Nice, and Bordeaux.
- Heatwaves: Occasional heatwaves mean you’ll need to adapt your daily schedule and stay hydrated, particularly in cities where temperatures can soar.
- Accommodation Demand: Finding affordable housing can be more challenging due to increased demand. Early planning is essential.
Wondering if you’ll have enough time to enjoy summer as a student? Check school holidays here: https://www.service-public.fr/particuliers/vosdroits/F31952
Where to Go
- French Riviera: Explore the glamorous beaches and stunning scenery of Nice, Cannes, and Saint-Tropez, where the Mediterranean lifestyle shines.
- Paris: The capital remains a top destination, with outdoor cinemas, picnics in parks like the Bois de Boulogne, and night markets adding to its summer charm.
- Provence: Late summer is lavender season, making the fields around Valensole a must-see. The region’s small towns offer a slower pace of life ideal for relaxation and study.
- Bordeaux: This wine region is perfect for students interested in oenology, with vineyard tours more accessible and the city’s riverfront alive with events.
What to Do
- Beach Days and Water Sports: The coast offers everything from sunbathing to surfing, particularly in the Atlantic and Mediterranean.
- Summer Festivals: Engage with France’s cultural diversity through its summer festivals, which celebrate everything from music to history and art.
- Outdoor Markets: Summer markets are a feast for the senses, offering fresh, local produce and a taste of French culinary traditions.
- Nature Adventures: Take advantage of the weather to explore France’s natural beauty, from hiking in the Pyrenees to canoeing in the Ardèche.
Seasonal Dishes
- Ratatouille: A stewed vegetable dish from Provence, featuring eggplant, zucchini, bell peppers, and tomatoes, which captures the essence of summer in every bite.
- Salade Niçoise: This classic salad from Nice includes tomatoes, hard-boiled eggs, Niçoise olives, anchovies, and tuna, dressed with olive oil, making it a refreshing meal.
- Moules Marinières: Mussels cooked in white wine with shallots, garlic, and parsley, usually served with fries, is a beloved summer dish, especially in coastal areas.
- Gaspacho: A cold soup made from blended raw vegetables like tomatoes, bell peppers, cucumbers, and onions, seasoned with garlic, vinegar, and olive oil, offering a cooling respite from the summer heat.
Student Best Suited for Summer in France
Students who thrive in summer in France are those who love warmth, both in climate and culture. They’re adventurous, open to new experiences, and eager to soak up everything France has to offer, from its bustling cities to serene landscapes.
Interested in diving deeper into the opportunities awaiting you in France? Our team is here to provide detailed information about our school locations and the optimal times for you to embark on your academic journey.
Contact us today to learn how you can begin your educational journey in France next summer.
