Why study in Lyon in 2026?

Studying in Lyon in 2026 means choosing a dynamic, cultural, and international student city, renowned for the quality of its education and its cultural richness. Located in the heart of Europe, Lyon offers an ideal setting for learning French, pursuing higher education in France, and enjoying an enriching human experience.

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Why take French classes in Lyon?

Studying French as a foreign language (FLE) in Lyon means choosing educational excellence and authentic immersion in one of France’s most beautiful cities.

A welcoming city on a human scale

Easy to explore on foot, by bike, or by public transport, Lyon is a city on a human scale, ideal for living and studying in complete serenity. It combines modernity, green spaces, and quality of life, while remaining accessible and friendly to international students.

A unique cultural richness

Throughout the year, Lyon vibrates to the rhythm of an exceptional cultural calendar:

• The Fête des Lumières, a world-famous event,
• The Dance Biennale,
• The Contemporary Art Biennale,
• numerous festivals, concerts, and exhibitions.

The Lyon region also offers many opportunities for weekend getaways, with its picturesque villages and medieval towns.

Affordable cost of living

Compared to Paris, Lyon offers a lower cost of living, particularly for housing, transportation, and everyday expenses, making it an attractive destination for international students.

A world capital of gastronomy

Lyon is recognized as the capital of gastronomy. From bouchons lyonnais to local markets, the city invites you to discover the French art of living through authentic and convivial cuisine, a true extension of language learning.

 

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Lyon, an unforgettable student experience

A leading student city

Ranked among the best student cities in France, Lyon welcomes students from all over the world. Its academic, cultural, and economic dynamism makes it an ideal environment for learning and opening up to the world.

The second largest student city in France

Lyon welcomes more than 190,000 students each year to its many universities and grandes écoles. The Lyon metropolitan area offers a rich and diverse range of courses, with more than 130 master’s degrees in a wide variety of fields.

An unforgettable linguistic and human experience

Learning French in Lyon means experiencing the language on a daily basis: interacting with locals, meeting students of all nationalities, and discovering French culture in all its diversity.

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Why choose the Alliance Française de Lyon?

Founded in 1984, the Alliance Française de Lyon’s mission is to teach the French language and promote cultural diversity to an international audience.

A recognized educational offering

The school stands out for:

• a comprehensive range of French courses, available year-round,
• training tailored to all levels, according to the CEFR,
• a communicative and action-oriented teaching approach, based on the latest innovations,
• qualified, experienced, and attentive teachers.

Official certifications, a guarantee of quality

The Alliance Française de Lyon is Qualiopi and Qualité FLE certified, guaranteeing:

• pedagogical excellence,
• a personalized welcome,
• serious and individualized student follow-up.

An expert and multicultural team

The teachers, who specialize in French as a Foreign Language, adapt their methods to each level and each culture, for lively, effective, and motivating learning.

A warm international community

Studying at the Alliance Française de Lyon means joining a community that is open to the world, where more than 120 nationalities meet and interact every day in a friendly and welcoming atmosphere.

Choosing the Alliance Française means choosing high-quality training that is recognized and supported by the French Ministry of Education.