For many Brits, the idea of evoking moving to France evokes images of charming villages, vineyards, and a slower pace of life. This idyllic dream is more than attainable, and France offers an array of regions, each with its own unique charm. Let’s explore some of the most popular destination where British expats live in France, delving into what makes them so appealing. British expats are dispersed across every department of mainland France, with concentrations of 5,000 or more in the northwest, southwest, southeast and Paris.
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Paris: the city of lights
Climate: Paris experiences a temperate oceanic climate, with mild winters and warm summers. Expect temperatures ranging from 3°C in winter to 20°C in summer.
Accessibility: As the French capital, Paris boasts excellent transport links. The Charles de Gaulle Airport is one of the busiest in Europe, offering direct flights to various UK cities.
Things to see and do: From iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre to strolls along the Seine and lazy afternoons in Montmartre, Paris is a treasure trove of culture, art and history.
Why British expats choose Paris: The cosmopolitan atmosphere, world-class healthcare and endless cultural offerings make Paris a top choice for British expats living in France. Additionally, the established expat community provides a support system for those new to the city.
Dordogne: rustic beauty and gastronomy
Climate: The dordogne region enjoys a mild climate, with warm summers and cool winters. Temperatures range from 2°C in winter to 26°C in summer.
Accessibility: Bergerac and Brive-Souillac airports serve the Dordogne, with connections to major UK cities. Additionally, it’s well-connected to Bordeaux and Toulouse.
Things to see and do: Dordogne is known for its stunning countryside, medieval towns like Sarlat, and remarkable prehistoric sites like the Lascaux Caves. The region is also a haven for foodies, with its truffles, foie gras and local wines.
Why British expats choose Dordogne: The slower pace of life, affordable property prices, and exquisite culinary experiences draw many British expats to the Dordogne. It’s a place to savour the beauty of rural France.
Alpes-Maritimes: Riviera glamour and natural beauty climate
Climate: Alpes-Maritimes enjoys a Mediterranean climate, characterised by mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers. Temperatures range from 9°C in winter to 30°C in summer.
Accessibility: Nice Côte D’Azur Airport provides easy access to the region. The high-speed TGV train also links Nice to major French cities.
Things to see and do: From the glamorous beaches of Nice and Cannes to the stunning landscapes of the Mercantour National Park, Alpes-Maritimes offers a diverse range of experiences.
Why British expats choose Alpes-Maritimes: For many, it’s the allure of the French Riviera, with its Mediterranean lifestyle, beautiful climate and cultural richness. The region also boasts excellent healthcare and education options.
Aquitaine: vineyards and Atlantic coastlines
Climate: Aquitaine enjoys an oceanic climate, with mild winters and warm summers. Temperatures range from 2°C in winter to 24°C in summer.
Accessibility: Bordeaux-Mérignac Airport is the main international gateway. High speed trains link Bordeaux to Paris and other cities.
Things to see and do: The region is renowned for its vineyards, historic cities like Bordeaux, and the sandy beaches of the Atlantic coast.
Why British expats choose Aquitaine: The combination of world-class wine, beautiful countryside, and easy access to the coast makes Aquitaine a magnet for British expats. Bordeaux’s international community and excellent healthcare facilities are also significant draws.
Midi-Pyrénées: rural tranquility and outdoor adventures
Climate: Midi-Pyrénées experiences a varied climate due to its size. Generally, summers are warm and winters can be cold, especially in the mountainous areas.
Accessibility: Toulouse-Blagnac Airport is the main airport, while high-speed trains link Toulouse to other major French cities.
Things to see and do: This region offers everything from the vibrant city life of Toulouse to the tranquility of the Pyrénées. Outdoor enthusiast will find endless opportunities for hiking, skiing and cycling.
Why British expats choose Midi-Pyrénées: The affordability of housing, stunning landscapes, and the rich cultural heritage draw British expats seeking a quieter, rural life. Additionally, the region’s strong sense of community is a significant factor.
Benefits of living in France as a British expat
Healthcare: France offers a world-class healthcare system, consistently ranked among the best globally.
Quality of life: With a focus on work-life balance, France provides an excellent quality of life, particularly in rural areas.
Education: The country boasts a strong education system, including a range of international schools.
Cultural richness: France’s rich history, art and cuisine offer an unparalleled cultural experience.
Making the move to France
Embarking on this adventure required careful planning and understanding of visa requirements, legal documentation and settling-in processes. Seeking guidance from expat communities and leveraging official resources will help smooth the transition.
> You might be interested in : Moving to France after Brexit
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Final notes on where British expats live in France
France beckons with a multitude of options for British expats, each region offering its own unique blend of lifestyle, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re drawn to the cosmopolitan allure of Paris or the rustic charm of Dordogne, you’re sure to find a piece of this enchanting country where British expats live in France.
