Bordeaux on the bend of the Garonne

French course in Bordeaux

Take a French course in Bordeaux, a stylish and lively city that sits on the banks of the Garonne River, surrounded by stunning landscapes.

6 classrooms
Private courtyard
Certified Label Qualité FLE centre
Member of IALC and Campus France
Wi-Fi
Student lounge
Some course materials included, others available to purchase
Approved for CSN and Bildungsurlaub programmes (various states)

Learning French
Big, bright classrooms
Student lounge
Relaxing in the school garden

Prices & dates for Bordeaux

(b) = start dates suitable for complete beginners and all other levels

Why should I study French in Bordeaux?

Bordeaux - St Andre Cathedral

You don’t need to be a wine enthusiast to enjoy spending time in what is often referred to as the wine capital of the world. Admittedly, there are numerous museums dedicated to the subject, guiding visitors through the process of making and tasting wine, and the city is surrounded by vineyards and wine chateaux, but if you’re really not interested in sampling a delicious Merlot or crisp Sauvignon Blanc, there will be many other activities to keep you interested and occupied!

Bordeaux has a rich history that spans over two millennia, with the Celts, Romans, English, Dutch and French all playing a part in the evolution of the city from a settlement in 300BC to the urban metropolis it is today. You probably won’t be surprised to learn that the wine trade played a big part in the development of Bordeaux - following the marriage of Eleanor of Aquitaine to Henry Plantagenet, wine became a major export to England in the 12th century. It wasn’t all smooth sailing though, as the Black Death, Hundred Years’ War, French Revolution and conflicts throughout Europe disrupted the market for the next several hundred years. By the 1920s the Bordeaux wine trade was thriving, but the Great Depression and the Second World War caused the market to crash again, with supply and demand suffering between 1929 and 1945. The industry has since rallied, and today is reported to be worth an astonishing €15 billion, with Bordeaux wines exported to over 46 countries worldwide! So, even if you don’t much like wine, museums like the La Cité du Vin are well worth a visit to learn more about one of France’s most valued products.

After Paris, Bordeaux has more museums than any other city in France. Many ‘must-see’ museums are located within easy walking distance of the school. The Musée d’Aquitaine is just a 20-minute walk away and is dedicated to the history of Bordeaux, with exhibits ranging from the prehistoric era to the city you can see today. A visit here will help you to appreciate the stunning architecture that the city has become well-known for. Even closer to the school is Musée des Beaux-arts, one of the oldest museums in the country which houses works by well-known artists and sculptors such as Delacroix, Van Dyck, Rodin and Matisse. To view art in a totally different way, jump on bus number 5 (Tourny to Bassins à Flot) and explore Bassin de Lumières, a German-built former World War II submarine base that is now the largest digital art centre in the world. Become immersed in exhibitions that offer high-quality visual and audio experiences that will enthral and delight all ages.

When the weather is good, visit some of Bordeaux’s many green spaces, such as Jardin Public - another well-known attraction that is just over 200 metres from the school! Perhaps visit a local bakery en-route and enjoy a picnic by the duck pond. If you happen to be in Bordeaux during July or August you might also catch a Guignol show - a traditional puppet show performed by members of the Guérin family that is enjoyed by both Bordelais adults and children!

After you’ve enjoyed your delicious baked goods (we hope you tried a Canelé de Bordeaux!), exit Jardin Public in the south-east corner and cross Place des Quinconces, taking in the Monument aux Girondins. From here a short stroll along the banks of the Garonne will bring you to Place de la Bourse, home to Miroir d’Eau, the world’s largest reflecting pool (3,450 square metres!). This vast expanse of shallow, shimmering water reflects the neoclassical architecture of the Palais de la Bourse and is the most photographed spot in Bordeaux. The pool continually progresses through a computer-programmed cycle - for approximately 15 minutes there will be around 2cm of water, allowing tourists and locals to cool off by paddling or splashing across the granite slab! After this water flow stops for five minutes, allowing the pool to drain and leaving a shiny wet surface. Then something truly magical happens… hundreds of underground nozzles project a fog-like vapour into the air, creating a low-level mist for a few minutes before the reservoir refills and the whole process starts again. It’s no wonder Miroir d’Eau is such a popular feature on every Bordeaux tourist’s social media feed!

The centre of Bordeaux is largely pedestrianised, making it one of the most walkable cities in France, and the reliable public transport network steps in when you want to explore a little further out. Whether you spend a week in Bordeaux, or take a long-term course and stay for an academic year, the city is sure to keep you busy and entertained. The cobbled streets, excellent gastronomic scene, local markets, chic boutiques, lively nightlife and fascinating history of France’s ninth largest city make this a popular destination for French university students and international visitors alike.

About our school in Bordeaux

Big, bright classrooms

Our French language school in Bordeaux is housed in a charming two-storey stone building situated in the vibrant downtown area. The facility features six classrooms, a kitchenette for student use, and a dedicated space for student well-being. With free Wi-Fi available, you can easily access the internet for homework and stay connected with friends and family.

Located in the heart of Bordeaux, our school is close to the city’s main attractions. The nearby Chartrons district, once a centre for the wine trade, is home to the Musée du Vin et du Négoce, a small museum just a twenty-minute walk away. In addition to museums, the area boasts an abundance of bakeries, coffee shops, restaurants, boutiques, and antique stores. Our school is also near the Public Gardens, providing a peaceful retreat in nature during your breaks.

The banks of the River Garonne are just a short walk away, offering students the chance to enjoy a leisurely stroll along the water after classes. Tram stops are conveniently located throughout the city, making it easy to explore Bordeaux.

 

Location of our school in Bordeaux

What courses are available in Bordeaux?

Available courses

    You are sure to find the perfect French language course for you in Bordeaux, thanks to the wide range offered by our school! Intensive or Super-Intensive group courses of 20 or 30 French language lessons per week are perfect if you would like to improve your overall level of French, whereas private courses offer you the chance to tailor the lessons to meet your own specific requirements. Alternatively, you may like to consider one of our combined courses of group and one-to-one tuition.

    Bordeaux is famous for its gastronomy, and so our school offers a fantastic Culture, Wine and Gastronomy course combining language lessons with four exciting afternoon activities per week, which incorporate the tasting of local produce and wines, visits to historical properties and a vineyard in Bordeaux, and a pastry workshop.

    Our school in Bordeaux also offers courses designed specifically for teachers of French, and for students who plan on attending university in France.

    Accommodation options in Bordeaux

    Single room in host family

    Available accommodation

      Our school in Bordeaux offers host family accommodation, which is the perfect option if you wish to learn French at a fast pace, in an authentic and unique environment. Staying with a local family will ensure that you have plenty of opportunities to practise what you have learnt in class with your native French-speaking hosts! This accommodation type is offered on a bed and breakfast or half board basis. Please be advised that kitchen access is only permitted for students staying on a bed and breakfast basis. It is possible to pay a supplement to secure the use of a private bathroom.

      Accommodation in a student residence or aparthotel is also an option for students who wish to live more independently. Both offer a private kitchen for those who wish to self-cater, and a private bathroom.

      What activities are available in Bordeaux?

      Picnic in the park

      Cultural activities are regularly arranged by our school in Bordeaux and include guided tours of Bordeaux and its historical monuments, wine and cheese tasting, guided museum tours and cookery lessons. Regular excursions to local places of interest are also organised, such as St Emilion and its vineyards, the Arcachon Basin and the Dune of Pilat.

      Getting involved with the school’s activity programme will undoubtedly give you endless opportunities to enhance your language immersion programme!

          Sample activity programme

      How to get to our school in Bordeaux

      The nearest airport to our school in Bordeaux is Bordeaux Merignac. From there, we can arrange private airport transfers which will take you directly to your accommodation. Alternatively, if you are travelling by train, transfers from Bordeaux Saint Jean train station can also be arranged. If you prefer, you can take a taxi or a bus to reach your accommodation. Please note that private transfers are not included in the cost of the programme and will incur an additional fee. Please contact us for more information.

      Location: central Bordeaux
      Nearest convenience store: 300 m
      Nearest café: 252 m
      Nearest metro stop: N/A
      Nearest bus stop: 300 m (Chartrons)
      Distance from train station: 3.8 km
      Distance from airport: 17.7 km (Bordeaux-Mérignac Airport

      Course

      4.2 / 5
      Accommodation

      4.1 / 5
      School Staff

      4.5 / 5
      Average score for our school in Bordeaux based on 72 previous client reviews.

      Bordeaux: Student reviews & feedback

      Intensive
      Course
      Accommodationn/a
      School Staff

      The teachers I had, Lise and Sarah were exceptional and explained everything really clearly. The classes were fun and interactive and the trip every Wednesday and mini concert in the school every Friday was really nice. Merci beaucoup!

      Super Intensive 30
      Course
      Accommodationn/a
      School Staff

      Carole Deborde was an excellent teacher. Very engaging, great interaction with the class. I would highly recommend this school to anyone.

      Intensive 20 with Host Family
      Course
      Accommodation
      School Staff

      The course was excellent. The tutor Laure Vignier was excellent also. The course was intensive as descibed on the details but I found them so interesting and informative and thoroughly enjoyed all of them.

      The accommodation was fine, very convenient to the school only 15 minutes walk. We had the 2nd floor to my friend and myself including our ensuite bathroom ,so we were very comfortable. Our host Mrs Zabel was very friendly and helpful and when my friend had a problem Mrs Zabel went out of her way to help us.

      Intensive 20 with Host Family
      Course
      Accommodation
      School Staff

      Excellent teaching; range of media, well paced and light-hearted so very encouraging. My host was delightful. I felt I was having an extra two hour French lesson every evening as we conversed over supper.

      Intensive 26 with Host Family
      Course
      Accommodation
      School Staff

      I felt I was in the right group for my level. The teaching was primarily through talking either as a large group or smaller groups. There were lots of different teaching styles to keep attention - video clips, work books, handouts etc. Covered grammar, vocabulary and conversation. My family were lovely. Very helpful, very good food, made me feel very welcome.

      Intensive 20 + Private lessons with Host Family
      Course
      Accommodation
      School Staff

      Mmd. Soizic was a very excellent teacher. She made us work hard but also enjoy ourselves and learn a lot about different cultures. All the material covered during my very short stay of 1 week was extremely helpful for my upcoming Alevel exams as a form of revision.

      My accommodation was fabulous. Marianne took extremely good care of me and her company was just superb. I will for sure keep in contact with her and her lovely family.

      Intensive 20
      Course
      Accommodationn/a
      School Staff

      The course I took was very well structured, with students of different nationalities and this' allowed to use the language also in our free time . I was very interesting because this included a theoretical part and a practical conversation and listening to the current language all that in a serene and professional atmosphere.

      Course
      Accommodation
      School Staff

      The course was thoroughly enjoyable. Instruction was first-rate and good humoured throughout, class size was small and there was a friendly, helpful demeanour to all that went on. I wish I could have stayed for longer.

      My accommodation was absolutely fine. I was well looked after by a sympathetic (to my educational needs) family who treated me very well.

      A good course in an excellent venue. I would (in fact, have already) recommend it to my friends.

      Course
      Accommodation
      School Staff

      I found the course interesting. The school staff were extremly helpful and listened to concerns students had about their courses and the make up of these courses. Our host was extremly good. She was our defacto teacher, and helped a lot in this area as well as helping us develope our oral language skills. She was an extremly good cook and hostess. Thanks to the school for being able to accomodate both my wife and I as a couple, which added to the experience.

      Course
      Accommodation
      School Staff

      The school has a well organised course for beginners like myself. I learnt enough french in the three weeks I was there to give me the confidence to continue learning the language. I stayed in a hotel near the Bordeaux St Jean railway station. It was very pleasant and comfortable hotel

      Course
      Accommodation
      School Staff

      Although I only stayed for one week, I felt that the topic covered was a bit one dimensional - I realise that many people would stay for more than one week, however, it would have been useful to cover multiple topics so that a wider range of vocab and expressions could be learnt.

      Accommodation
      Excellent accommodation and very friendly family - five star!

      Intensive 20 with Host Family
      Course
      Accommodation
      School Staff

      The course was great, there were only 7 students in our class and we were all on the same level of French. The teacher was very friendly and motivating and used topics from popular culture. It was a typical French family, with a house (with pool) 20 min outside of Bordeaux. I'm thankful they shared their daily life with me, it's a very interesting way to travel and they gave me even more opportunity to practice my French during dinner.

      Course
      Accommodation
      School Staff

      I enjoyed my course and found it both challenging and rewarding. My accommodation was excellent. The woman was lovely and made me feel really at home.

      Course
      Accommodation
      School Staff

      Very good teachers and a good programme in all. Couldn't have been luckier with my host family - superb!

      Course
      Accommodation
      School Staff

      The course was excellent.

      Course
      Accommodation
      School Staff

      I was really happy with my language course. The teachers were very competent and friendly and taught interesting and relevant lessons. The group sizes were nice and small and there was a good, relaxed atmosphere in the school. My host family completly integrated me into their life and I felt like a part of the family rather than a guest. We shared dinners every evening and went on trips together on the weekend. The family had three lovely and talkative teenage daughters - which was great to practice my French. I am sure I will stay in contact with my host family!

      Course
      Accommodation
      School Staff

      My French course was very well organised. Every student had the opportunity to learn French in their own way and everyone got the chance to develop themselves at their own speed. I stayed with a nice family. My room was nice, I had much space, even my own shower and microwave. I could come into the house whenever I wanted to, talk to them about school and such.

      Course
      Accommodation
      School Staff

      I've never studied French before this language course and it was very helpful for me.

      Course
      Accommodation
      School Staff

      The teacher was very nice and the school very well equipped etc. My accomodation was amazing. The house was large and modern. It was in the suburbs but well connected by tram. My host mother was incredible. The meals were fantastic, she did the washing every night, she cleaned everyday and had a whole food of fridge just for the students. There were also three other girls staying there which was very nice. She was very happy for us to use the wifi and helped us out whenever we needed it. There was also a swimming pool and a separate bathroom for the students. My time in Bordeaux was fantastic! The accomodation was excellent and the town and way of life there was very relaxing and enjoyable.

      Course
      Accommodation
      School Staff

      I enjoyed the course as we discussed French culture topics a lot and then how things worked in our own countries. There was a lot of opportunity for conversation and the tutor was also happy to give us additional exercises for further practice of grammar points.

      Course
      Accommodation
      School Staff

      It was really helpful for my spoken french especially. The house was lovely and the family were particularly accomodating.

      Course
      Accommodation
      School Staff

      I found the course useful. Excellent accommodation with a very friendly and helpful family. They made a big effort to show me the French way of life and I would highly recommend to another student.

      Course
      Accommodation
      School Staff

      The course has been really useful and nice, and the accommodation has been great!

      Course
      Accommodation
      School Staff

      The course was great fun. The teacher was an encouraging, committed and diligent tutor, who delivered to clear and attainable learning outcomes through oral, aural and written work, and added local and national cultural interest and nuance. There was a happy atmosphere in the school with engaging, diverse class colleagues and I made significant progress!

      Course
      Accommodation
      School Staff

      I really enjoyed the course and would definitely recommend the school to friends.

      Course
      Accommodation
      School Staff

      The teachers at the school are really great!

      Course
      Accommodation
      School Staff

      The teachers were wonderful, the atmosphere within the class was great. Everyone accepted everyone else. It was fun even so very tiring in the first week. The trips on Friday afternoon were very good and gave one an enjoyment of the surroundings of the beautiful city of Bordeaux. I absolutely enjoyed my stay there and I had the feeling that the other students were as happy as I was. The accomodation was very good and the services as well.

      Course
      Accommodation
      School Staff

      Good experience to kick start the process for learning French. I found Apple Languages to be very good to work with and they responded promptly to my inquiries. This made me feel confident. The course and the town of Bordeaux are fantastic. My accommodation had an excellent pool. I had really great meals and there was lots of space in the house which was quiet and peaceful. This assisted with my french in conversation.

      Course
      Accommodation
      School Staff

      Highly recommended, although a very basic knowledge of french would be helpful for the absolute beginner. Ideally at least 3 weeks would be sufficient to gain a good understanding and the ability to converse in french. Staying with a host family is a superb way of improving your french. I was totally delighted with the host family I stayed with - the hospitality, the cuisine and the conversations were fantastic. I was glad I chose this option. Overall a great experience, highly recommended.

      Course
      Accommodation
      School Staff

      It was a enjayable course. My family were lovely and friendly and settled in right away.My French has improved. My accomadation was excellent I coulndnt have had a nicer or more comfortable house.

      Course
      Accommodation
      School Staff

      It was a fabulous experience that I will never forget. I now have friends from all over the world.

      Course
      Accommodation
      School Staff

      I enjoyed the overall experience of being taught entirely in French. My host family made me feel extremely welcome; accommodation was spotless, easy to find from the City centre adn the hosts spoke very clearly to me - great fun!

      Course
      Accommodation
      School Staff

      The course was intensive as expected but the 1:1 was excellent - it went at a pace dependent on progress and also allowed for all sorts of developments along lines which emerged from our work - we spoke a lot about the election and used all sorts of materials to develop an understanding of French and help apply it to all situations. The lesson and the administration was all conducted in french and even the explanations of grammar and of the exercises was always in French - this was excellent and accustomed the ear to the language. I was met at the airport late on a Sunday and accompanied to the school on the first morning - at all times 'La dame d'accueil' was extremely helpful - food excellent and company superb - there was one other foreign student staying in the house and we were encouraged to speak French all the time during the stay. Having another student to talk to by being accommodated "en famille" was useful when there by oneself and also following an individual course. The school was excellent - very welcoming - the walking tour of Bordeaux on the first afternoon was very helpful and the commentary such that it was in French but understandable - one soon got into the understanding even if not all the words and every word was heard. The staff were keen to encourage French speaking all the time. A student lunch was arranged at a local restaurant.

      Course
      Accommodation
      School Staff

      The staff at the school were excellent for the whole week. The group exercises in the morning were very useful for the whole group to improve by working with each other and the 1:1's had a real value as they were specifically tailored by the school staff to meet my needs and as a result very rewarding.

      Course
      Accommodation
      School Staff

      The course was well taught, I had an excellent teacher. The accomodation was good, it's exactly what you expect for student accommodation.

      Course
      Accommodation
      School Staff

      The 1 to 1 sessions were particularly good. My host family were friendly people and very welcoming.

      Course
      Accommodation
      School Staff

      It was really good and despite the big differences in ability in the class the teacher made it relevant to all. My host was very friendly and welcoming.

      School statistics

      Nationality (%)


      American (7)
      Brasilian (5)
      Colombian (2)
      German (17)
      Italian (4)
      Japanese (5)
      Mexican (3)
      Spanish (8)
      Swiss (19)
      Uk (7)

      Average Student Numbers

      * Statistics considered correct at the time of publishing

      Student stories on our blog

      Bordeaux – one of my favourite cities in Europe!

      Hello everyone! Having Bordelais (Bordeaux) blood and having lived there for quite some time, I thought it is time write a blog post about things to do in Bordeaux. You might not know what to do with a day or two in one of my favourite cities in Europe. Or, you may be lucky enough to attend a French language course for one week or more. We have previously written about insider tips, but I want to give you suggestions about my favourite places in Bordeaux to eat and fun things to do. So without further ado, let’s start! Read more...
       

      Insider tips for beautiful Bordeaux

      BordeauxAt the crossroads of the Atlantic Ocean and the Garonne River, Bordeaux is a charming port city situated in the south west of France. Capital of the Aquitaine region, “La Perle d’Aquitaine” (The Pearl of Aquitaine) is the ninth largest city of France with a population of 240,000 inhabitants. The founding of Bordeaux dates back to the fifth century B.C, when some vineyards already started to spring up! Burdigala, as it used to be called, experienced a significant development thanks to its port, whilst some of the the ancient city constructions and remains are still visible today. Don’t be surprised if Bordeaux seems to have a certain “English flair” - the city was actually ruled by the English for a long time! Read more...
       

      You’ll never be bored in Bordeaux!

      One of my friends had spent a year in Bordeaux and she had told me what a lovely city it was so I expected to enjoy my time there - but I was surprised just how much I loved it! Lovely architecture, historic buildings, restaurant after restaurant and lively nightlife - what's not to love! During my trip I stayed in a studio apartment in one of the school's ApartHotels and was pleased with the standard of the room and the facilities. I was a bit nervous about being able to find the school in Bordeaux as I have such a bad sense of direction, so I decided to take the bus the first day. However, I soon realised how easy it was to reach the school whether I walked or took the bus. The staff at the school were so friendly and helpful too. There's also a comfortable student lounge where you can chill out on the sofa on your break and when the sun is shining you can make the most of the school's garden. Read more...
       

      FAQ about our school in Bordeaux

      Bordeaux offers an immersive French-speaking environment, a walkable city centre, fascinating history, museums, green spaces, and a vibrant student atmosphere.

      The school is located in central Bordeaux, close to the Chartrons district, the River Garonne, museums, cafés, shops, and public gardens.

      The school has six classrooms, a student lounge, a private courtyard, Wi-Fi, a kitchenette, and dedicated student wellbeing spaces.

      The school is a certified Qualité FLE centre, a member of IALC and Campus France, and is approved for selected CSN and Bildungsurlaub programmes.

      Students can choose from intensive group courses, super-intensive courses, private lessons, combined group and private tuition, teacher training courses, and university preparation programmes.

      Students can stay with a host family, in a student residence, or in an aparthotel.

      Living with a host family provides daily opportunities to practise French in a natural setting while experiencing local culture.

      The school arranges guided city tours, museum visits, wine and cheese tastings, cookery lessons, and excursions to nearby attractions.
      IALC Partner
      ALTO
      WYSE Travel Confederation
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      Our schools are rated  (4.59/ 5) based on 4096 customer reviews!
      Read in: | EN | FR | DE | IT | NL | ES

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