Learn French in Lyon
Learn French in Lyon, an elegant & attractive city with fine restaurants & stylish boutiques, to beautiful cathedrals & basilicas.
Prices & dates for Lyon
Why learn French in Lyon?
Lyon, known as the city of silk, cinema, and exceptional cuisine, is a visual delight. Its historic centre features charming cobbled streets, lush gardens, and an efficient public transport system that makes exploring its many attractions a breeze. With a history spanning over 2,000 years, Lyon is rich in historical sites, but its captivating past is just one reason why visitors flock here.
Renowned as France’s culinary capital, Lyon boasts more restaurants per capita than any other city in the country. From elegant Michelin-starred establishments to cosy bouchons and vibrant street-food stalls, the city truly celebrates gastronomy. With a large student population, Lyon buzzes with energy, offering entertainment and excitement for all ages. So why wait? Join us to learn French in Lyon and experience this vibrant city for yourself!
Once the capital of ancient Gaul, Lyon’s rich history is evident in its monuments, such as the Roman amphitheatre, the Cathedral of Saint John, and the impressive Hôtel-Dieu along the Rhône River. Equally fascinating are the traboules, hidden passageways in the historic centre that once allowed merchants and silk workers, known as canuts, to navigate the city swiftly. This efficiency helped establish Lyon as a major trading hub, a legacy that continues today as the city thrives in the chemical, biotech, and software industries.
The Vieux Lyon district, or ‘old town’, is one of Europe’s largest Renaissance centres. This stunning area is a paradise for history enthusiasts, offering hours of exploration among its picturesque streets. Old Lyon also hosts one of the city’s most famous annual events: La Fête des Lumières (the ‘Festival of Light’). Originally a tribute to the Virgin Mary, who is believed to have saved Lyon from a plague in the 17th century, the festival has evolved into a four-day celebration featuring spectacular illuminations on the city’s most iconic buildings. Residents decorate their windows with coloured candles, key streets are adorned with lanterns, and artists from across the country create breathtaking light displays, resulting in a truly enchanting atmosphere.
Lyon’s vibrant food scene is another key element of its charm. Second only to Paris, the city is celebrated for its gastronomic excellence. It is said that true haute cuisine originated here, thanks to the Lyonnaise mères, untrained yet highly skilled chefs who shaped classic French cooking and opened some of the nation’s first Michelin-starred restaurants. Today, Lyon boasts over a thousand eateries, offering both regional and international dishes. For an authentic taste of the city, be sure to visit a traditional Lyonnais bouchon, where you can savour delicious local fare made from fresh ingredients sourced at the city’s farmers' markets.
No matter how you choose to spend your time in Lyon, immersing yourself in the local culture will deepen your understanding of France’s history and significantly enhance your French language skills. After all, there is no better way to learn a language than by living it!
About our school in Lyon
Our French school in Lyon is situated in the trendy Brotteaux area of the city's 6th arrondissement. This district is famous for its outstanding restaurants and elegant Haussmann-style architecture. Primarily residential, Brotteaux is filled with charming shops and independent boutiques, providing ample opportunities for language practice after your lessons.
Just a short stroll away, you’ll find the picturesque west bank of the Rhône, an ideal spot for a leisurely afternoon walk. The school is conveniently located near a variety of attractions, including the Parc de la Tête d’Or, which features beautiful botanical gardens, a boating lake, and a popular zoo. Other nearby highlights include the Museum of Contemporary Art, Place des Jacobins, the Palais de la Bourse, La Part-Dieu shopping centre, the National Opera House, and the Roman Amphitheatre of the Three Gauls.
Language lessons are held on the ground floor of a charming 19th-century building. The facility is wheelchair-accessible and boasts 16 bright, air-conditioned classrooms. Students can relax in a spacious communal lounge equipped with vending machines offering snacks and drinks, as well as a multimedia library with computers for their use. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the building, and public transport links are just a few minutes away, making it easy to explore the city after class.
Founded in 1999, our school has over 20 years of experience in teaching French to international students. We hold the Label Qualité FLE accreditation from France’s Ministry of Education and are members of several quality-control organisations, including Campus France, the International Association of Language Centres (IALC), the FLE Group, and the International Federation of Teachers of French (FIPF). These credentials reflect the high standard of education we provide. Additionally, our location in one of France’s most vibrant and fascinating cities makes us a highly desirable choice for students.
Location of our school in Lyon
What French courses are available in Lyon?
Available courses
The core general French course offered at our Lyon school is the Intensive programme of 20 group lessons per week in classes of up to 14 students. This ensures you’ll receive plenty of language practice and highly personalised attention from the teacher, giving you the best chance of success in learning French. Our courses in Lyon cater to all levels of the French language, from complete beginners (with specific start dates) to advanced C1 learners. Class placement for non-beginners is based on your level of proficiency, determined by a placement test taken after enrollment.
Your French course can take place either in the morning or the afternoon; your timetable varies based on your starting French ability and the number of other students at each level. Your schedule will therefore be confirmed on your first day once all students have arrived. Morning classes take place 09:45 - 12:00 on Mondays and 09:00 - 12:15 Tuesday to Friday, while afternoon classes take place 14:00 - 16:15 on Mondays and 13:30 - 15:45 Tuesday to Friday.
The more rigorous Super Intensive French course of 26 lessons per week adds three 1.5-hour workshops per week to the core intensive course. These workshops usually take place on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays and cover all aspects of language learning (reading, writing, listening, and speaking), as well as cultural topics designed to increase your understanding of life in Lyon, France. Through focused activities and classwork, you’ll be able to rapidly increase your language proficiency. As with the intensive course, your classes will take place either in the morning or the afternoon depending on your starting ability level. Please note that complete beginners have specific start dates for this course.
If you want to make even more progress, you can attend the school’s Super-Intensive course of 40 lessons per week. This French programme includes eight 45-minute lessons per day. An intermediate level of French is recommended for participation in this Super-Intensive course. Since students are grouped by ability and the course is tailored to each individual, participation on this programme will ensure you make rapid progress. It's an ideal option if you only have one or two weeks to spend in Lyon.
Undoubtedly the most efficient way to maximise your French development is to take private lessons. If you're looking for additional personalised one-to-one lessons, you can add private tuition to the Super-Intensive 26-lesson group course. This option is ideal for those who feel they need extra support or wish to focus on specific topics. With unlimited teacher interaction, the Super-Intensive + Private programme enables you to make significant progress. By adding four one-on-one lessons per week to the core 26-lesson Super-Intensive group course, you'll gain extra language practice while still enjoying the social benefits of group learning.
There are set start dates for students with no previous experience of French - please contact us for available start dates for beginners. Private lessons are also a great option for those who feel they need extra support with their studies or who want to cover specific topics during their time in Lyon. However you use these lessons, you’ll find that you make unparalleled improvement in your French!
If you're preparing for exams such as the DELF/DALF or A-Level/Leaving Certificate, you can use your private lessons on this part of the French course for targeted exam preparation. Be sure to have the DELF preparation content covered on our specific Super Intensive + DELF Exam Prep French course.
Our school in Lyon is also a great place to study as a teacher of French as a foreign language. This school offers a variety of teaching methods to help you enhance your ability to engage students and improve their French language skills. A special teacher’s course is structured into five workshops: fun learning, oral expression, using literature in the classroom, the teacher's role, and differentiated instruction. In your general French lessons you’ll strengthen your language skills, while in your workshops you’ll improve your pedagogical practices through classroom observation, focused tasks, and group activities. This programme will put you in an excellent position to begin the new school year with newly improved skills and techniques. You’ll need to have at least B2/C1 starting ability in order to be eligible for this course. Please contact us for further details on our special Teacher course in Lyon.
On the first day of lessons, you should arrive at the school at 08:00. You will have already submitted a level test prior to arrival, which is used to assess your starting language ability and place you in a group that’s most suitable for that level. You will have a short oral assessment on arrival to verify the results of this test before having your class placement and lesson schedule confirmed. This methodology provides students with the best possible opportunity to improve their language skills, regardless of their starting level.
In the afternoon/evening, you’ll have the opportunity to take part in the school’s activity programme. At the end of your course, you’ll receive a certificate of achievement which can be used to demonstrate the French ability level you have reached during your time at the school. Please note that the school is closed for public holidays and lessons missed on these days will not be made up.
Don’t see what you’re looking for? Contact us today to see if we can arrange a bespoke package for you!
Accommodation options in Lyon
Available accommodation
If you enjoy the idea of a warm, welcoming atmosphere, shared meals, and experiencing the authenticity of French life, staying with a Host Family in Lyon is the perfect choice for you! It’s a wonderful way to feel "at home" while embracing the local lifestyle. Your hosts, who may be individuals or families, will be eager to introduce you to their favourite dishes and recommend their top spots in the city. Staying with a host family offers total French immersion, allowing you to experience local customs and daily routines firsthand. Plus, it provides many more opportunities to practice your French in everyday conversations, ensuring you make the most of your stay.
All hosts are native French speakers and live up to 40 minutes from our school in Lyon by public transport. You will have a private single bedroom and access to the home’s communal spaces including the lounge and bathroom(s). If you are looking at travelling with a friend/relative and would like a shared double room, please contact us for availability.
Rooms are offered on the following meal packages: breakfast-included, with kitchen access for cooking your other daily meals, or half-board, which includes breakfast and dinner each day and no kitchen access. We highly recommend the half-board option, as it is not only cost-effective but also gives you guaranteed social time with your host(s) in the evening, thus maximum your French language practice. The school charges a supplement for special dietary needs and special requests, such as walking distance to the school.
Whichever option you select, bed linens and towels will be provided by your host(s) and changed regularly; your host(s) will either do your laundry for you or let you use the home’s facilities once a week. Most hosts offer Wi-Fi access, but you should advise us at the time of booking if this a requirement for you. You will have your own key to come and go as you please, but you must respect house rules and schedules.
A transfer service is available for an additional fee if you would like to be collected from the airport or train station. Please note that under-18s must book homestay lodging.
What activities are available in Lyon?
Our Lyon school offers a wide range of social and cultural activities to complement your language tuition and introduce you to life in the capital of the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region.
These activities are grouped into three main categories:
Sports and Leisure: Lyon is not only a sports hub but also a centre for art and culture. With attractions such as the Musée des Beaux-Arts, two opera houses, numerous theatres, and the Maison de la Danse, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy performances and our school can offer access to many shows at discounted evening rates.
History and Gastronomy: Lyon, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is renowned for its rich history and world-class culinary scene. As the gastronomic capital of France, Lyon offers countless opportunities to explore its famous food markets, traditional "bouchons," and local specialties. Beyond its cuisine, the city is steeped in history, from its Roman ruins to its Renaissance architecture. Cultural highlights include the Festival of Lights, which illuminates the city every December, and prestigious museums like the Musée des Beaux-Arts. Whether you're strolling through ancient neighbourhoods or enjoying Lyon's vibrant food culture, this city is a true feast for both history buffs and food lovers alike.
Art and Culture: Lyon is a cultural haven, offering the aforementioned Festival of Lights, prestigious museums, and a thriving arts scene. Whether it's theatre, music, or film (like the Lumière festival), the city's artistic diversity attracts enthusiasts from around the world.
Activities are typically scheduled in the afternoons, evenings, or weekends and are designed to give you insight into Lyon’s history and culture while helping you connect with your classmates. All activities are conducted in French, allowing you to continue your language immersion and practice your skills in real-world settings.
Many activities are available free of charge, though some may incur an additional fee to cover entrance and/or transportation costs. The exact schedule changes throughout the year but may include:
- Guided walking tours
- Visits to attractions like the Parc de la Tête d’Or, Place Bellecour, and the Fine Arts Museum
- Group games
- Conversation sessions
- Food- and wine-tasting
- French film screenings
- Cookery workshops
- Trips to local markets
- Plus seasonal activities available in the city
How to get to our school in Lyon
Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport is just a 30-minute drive from the city centre. It is easily accessible from many worldwide locations.
From here, you can either make your own way to your lodging or we can arrange an airport transfer service for you. If you select this service, a driver will be waiting for you when you land and will take you directly to your accommodation. If you select this service on departure as well, you will be taken back to the airport in time for your departing flight.
You also have the option of being collected on arrival from either of Lyon’s two main train stations. Please contact us for more details on the cost of these transfers.
You should arrange to arrive in Lyon on the Sunday before your course starts and to depart on the Saturday after it finishes. We may be able to arrange extra nights on arrival and/or departure for you if needed.
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Lyon: Student reviews & feedback
Intensive 20
Excellent one week A-1 course! Nathalie was a fantastic teacher. Very patient, very engaging, very encouraging, and very good at ensuring all students were involved in the class. I learned a lot in one week and, more importantly, I left the class excited to continue learning French.
- C. Merrin
Private lessons with Host Family
1-2-1, 15 lessons over 3 days...a tough ask for both me and teacher (Justine) but learnt lots by focusing in on key problem areas. Felt I could ask when in doubt and all objectives achieved giving me renewed confidence about my French.
Room, accommodation, facilities all great with really good breakfasts and evening meals, the latter lasting long into the evening!! Good location in relation to school. Madame Odile was simply the best! Such a lovely lady who could not have done more for me and who could not have been any better for me. We had such a laugh!
- A. Hornsby
Super Intensive 25 with Host Family
Carefully developed and titrated. Teacher was very good, supportive.. and fun
The Roche family were absolutely superb, going out of their way to make me feel welcome. To profit from my time I have been with other families, and this one was truly the best.
- J. Allen
I thought the course was great. I had lessons just in the morning which left the afternoons to explore Lyon and have fun. It was really well rounded with emphasis on all areas of the French language and the teachers were really great.
I was staying with a host family and it worked really well. I could come and go as I pleased and got lots of delicious meals.
It was so useful to have someone to talk to in English when I was trying to organise my language course, everyone I spoke to at Apple Languages was really helpful. I had an amazing time in Lyon!
- E. White
Course
I had a great time although I felt the assessment could have been better as I covered a lot of stuff I already knew and therefore didn't get as much as I hoped from the course
Accommodation
The apartment was in an excellent location and my room was fantastic. The family were very friendly and helpful.
Extra
I had a great time in Lyon, it is an excellent city and a great school and I would love to go back!
- S. Tully
Course
I liked it because there was no set textbook and a relatively small amount of homework.
Accommodation
The woman I stayed with (Mme Champeymont) was very kind and welcoming. She cooked very well. Her language was clear and she was easy to talk to. She respected my privacy and helped me in every way possible.
- Student
Super Intensive 25 with Student Residence
I have a very good memory of the school in general. In particular, the teachers I had were really willing, well-prepared and friendly. I hope to have the chance to come back!!
- C. Cortelazzi
Super Intensive 25
I really enjoyed the course and the easyness to find it! Was a good week and I really find helpfull the mediation of Apple Languages with the school.
- G. Bogoni
The course was interesting and provided plenty of oral opportunities. The workshops on pronunciation were particularly interesting and useful. I was housed with an absolutely lovely woman and her young son, with a comfortable and spacious room of my own. I was very much made to feel at home.
- C. Coffey
A great introduction to French, in a very friendly and relaxed environment. I immediately felt that I was part of a big family.
- J. Bultitude
Lyon is an extremely friendly language school and is also well organised. My lessons were pitched at just the right level for me, lots of enjoyable oral discussion, but also some challenging grammar. I loved my host family. We hit it off instantly. The food was excellent and they made me feel very welcome. I would go back in a heartbeat.
- G. Alleeson
I had a great teacher, and school had very helpful staff. I learnt a lot on the course. My host family spoke to me in French all the time - excellent!
- C. Johnson
I thought the course was excellently structured. Given that I was only there for two weeks it was inevitable that I had to join in at a particular point on what was obviously an ongoing syllabus but this was administered with a deal of flexibility and I also enjoyed immensely the discussions of topical issues. My host family consisted of a middle-aged lady and her cat. She was very helpful and hospitable and I'm sure helped me to improve my french. The food was excellent.
- M. Brennan
School statistics
Nationality (%)
Brazil (19)
Eastern europe (3)
English speakers (6)
German speakers (14)
Italian (38)
Japanese/korean (4)
Spanish speakers (8)
Average Student Numbers
Student stories on our blog
Lyon travel bucket list
If you are looking for a French city which can definitively compete with the lovely capital city that Paris is, I think you should opt for the beautiful and affordable – but no quality loss – Lyon!
More than simply listing the most famous monuments or places from the town, I thought about sharing my very own personal travel bucket list, with all of my favourites to help you to discover other sides of the city.
Read more...Lyon – La Ville des Lumières
Situated 290 miles from Paris, 200 miles from Marseille, 260 miles from Strasbourg, 100 miles from Geneva and 170 miles from Turin, Lyon has seized the opportunity offered by its central location. Third biggest city of France in terms of population, its economy is the second ‘healthiest’ in France. Lyon is a major centre for banking, chemical, pharmaceutical and biotech industries, not surprising that its population is booming! The city is within easy reach from every major European city, given that it has a well-connected airport 25 km east of its centre.
Read more...Beautiful Lyon
After considering both Lyon and Paris, I chose to study in Lyon. This was because I was planning to spend several months in France, and I wanted to be in a big city, but I felt that in Lyon I would have more opportunity to speak French and experience real French culture than in Paris.
What I discovered was that Lyon has so much more to offer than this! Beautiful Lyon lies on three rivers. The masculine Rhône and the feminine Saône divide the city into distinct districts.
Read more...
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Company Number: 08311373