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Best Places to Live in France

Living in France comes with a plethora of lifestyle benefits, from exquisite wine and dining to world-class healthcare facilities. If you’re yet to pick a destination for your corporate move to France, don’t worry. From the bustling metropolises to the serene countryside, we’ve compiled the best places to live in France. Keep reading to know more.

Paris

The City of Lights is not only a muse for artists. Corporate professionals move to Paris for its gourmet dining experiences and world-class shopping alongside excellent work prospects. The city’s iconic museums, theatres, and cultural exhibits also provide ample leisure opportunities. 

If you’re looking for a mix of historical charm and modern amenities, neighbourhoods such as Saint-Germain-des-Prés, and the 16th arrondissement are ideal. You can enjoy a quick commute to central Paris and business districts such as La Défense. The area is decked with luxury townhouses and stylish apartments allowing expats to find a home that suits their lifestyle.

Eiffel Tower in Paris on an autumn evening

Lyon

Lyon’s stunning architecture becomes obvious in neighbourhoods such as the Presqu’île, and the Croix-Rousse. Elegant housing is only one of the perks of living in this region of France, efficient public transport ensures connectivity with business hubs such as Part-Dieu.

The city’s culinary heritage is reflected in the fantastic restaurants in the area. Along with a thriving cultural scene and green spaces such as Parc de la Tête d’Or, Lyon’s recreational pursuits offer a great quality of life to its residents. Furthermore, the city’s expat community and host of English-speaking services ensure a smooth transition for relocating corporate workers.

Aerial view of Palais de Justice Footbridge above Saone River in Lyons, France

Bordeaux

Bordeaux’s sophisticated neighbourhoods such as Chartrons and Caudéran exude charm and elegance. The region’s exquisite wines give it a unique feel of its own, with the Chartrons riverfront characterised by warehouses once used by foreign merchants. The area boasts a picturesque riverfront, trendy boutiques, and fantastic restaurants offering expats a refined living experience in France. 

Bordeaux benefits from a convenient tram line that whisks passengers away to wherever they need to be, from business districts to popular tourist attractions. The city is also renowned for its contemporary art with cultural establishments championing its heritage. An additional perk for those with kids is the top-notch international schools that provide bilingual education.

Saint Pierre Bridge in Bordeaux, France

Dordogne

Nestled in southwest France, the picturesque region of Dordogne is perfect for expats seeking a tranquil lifestyle. Neighbourhoods such as Sarlat-la-Canéda, Bergerac, and Périgueux feature beautiful stone houses, countryside estates, and modern villas. They’re also well-connected by rail and road, offering ease of access to the city’s business districts. 

The quality of life in Dordogne is largely due to its fantastic recreational opportunities, which include (but are not limited to) hiking, cycling, and canoeing along the Dordogne River. Local markets are teeming with fresh produce transformed into culinary perfection at the town’s restaurants. The region also provides quality healthcare services to its residents.

Houses along the Dordogne River in France

Nice

A jewel on the French Riviera, Nice is known for its stunning Mediterranean coastline, pleasant climate, and cultural richness. Neighbourhoods such as the Promenade des Anglais and Mont Boron offer an exceptional living experience catering to the sophisticated tastes of expats. 

Nice features upscale shopping, gourmet dining, excellent transport links, and top-notch healthcare and education. It’s the perfect mix of old-town charm and the cosmopolitan culture of Europe. The city’s magnificent setting on the French Riviera offers expats a dynamic living experience.

Aerial shot of Nice on the French Riviera

Moving to France is an exciting opportunity, and picking the right place to live is crucial for maintaining a high quality of life. From the urban vibrance of Paris to the tranquil charm of Dordogne, we’ve covered some of the best places to live in France. 

At Gerson, we provide a range of bespoke international relocation services tailored to your needs. Whatever stage of your journey you are in, we can assist you with your corporate move.

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