Where is the most English-friendly place in France?

Where are the most English people in France?

The Nouvelle-Aquitaine region, particularly the departments of Dordogne, Charente, and Deux-Sèvres, has long been a top destination for British expats. Often nicknamed “Dordogneshire”, this area blends countryside, historic towns, and a well-established English-speaking community.

What is the most English part of France?

Most Britons in France live in Nouvelle-Aquitaine

The number of Britons living in other regions of France can also be calculated using Insee reports. The most recent figures (released in June 2024) using administrative data from 2021 show: Nouvelle-Aquitaine – 38,814 British residents.

Where do Brits go in France?

The Nouvelle-Aquitaine region in southwest France is home to a substantial British expat community, with around 40,000 residents. Known for its scenic countryside, charming villages, and renowned vineyards, this region offers a slower, more relaxed pace of life.

Which part of France is the friendliest?

And in 2025, they delivered a clear average: Brittany is awarded the title of the most welcoming region in France, followed by Corsica, last year's winner. The ranking highlights " its remarkable and diverse heritage, its rugged coastlines, its picturesque villages, and its many forests ».

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What city in France speaks the most English?

Paris. Paris is at the top of the list for English speakers who wish to live in France.

Are French friendly to foreigners?

However, it's important to understand that while the French are protective of their traditions, they are not inherently unfriendly towards foreigners. Many expats who move to France find that once they make an effort to learn the language and understand local customs, they are warmly welcomed into their communities.

What is the most British city in France?

Its own mayor described has Nice as “the most British” city in France, but in truth the whole world flocks to one of France's most liveable cities. It also happens to have just about the best weather in the country. But what of the property in Nice, and where should you look to buy?

Can Brits live in France full time?

A UK national must hold a long-stay visa if they intent to live in France or a French Overseas territory for longer than 90 days (whether for work, study, visitor, or family purposes)

What French area is popular with British tourists expats?

Dordogne. So popular with British househunters and holidaymakers that it's been nicknamed Dordogneshire, this picturesque corner of southwest France has much to recommend it.

What is Brittany famous for?

Brittany is famous for its fresh oysters—Cancale in particular is the region's “oyster capital.” Mussels, scallops, and other local seafood are also abundant. And no visit is complete without sampling a classic buckwheat galette, a savory crêpe filled with cheese, ham, eggs, or other toppings.

What is the closest English county to France?

The shortest distance across the strait, at approximately 20 miles (32 kilometres), is from the South Foreland, northeast of Dover in the English county of Kent, to Cap Gris Nez, a cape near to Calais in the French département of Pas-de-Calais.

Which part of France is best to live in?

Why are Brits moving to France?

One of the biggest lifestyle shifts for Brits moving to France is the work-life balance. The French take their leisure time seriously, with strict labor laws ensuring shorter working hours and generous holiday allowances.

How many Brits live permanently in France?

Number of UK citizens living in EU countries 2019. In 2019, there were approximately 302,020 British citizens living in Spain, with a further 293,061 in Ireland and 176,672 in France.

Is English widely spoken in Bordeaux?

Thankfully, English is widely spoken, which has made settling in much easier.

Can I live in France with only English?

Living in a major French city as a non-French speaker is far easier than settling in a rural village. In Paris, Lyon, and Nice, large international communities, multilingual professionals, and English-speaking services make it possible to get by without speaking French.

How to not be rude in France?

Aside from a proper hello and goodbye, other pleasantries are expected in France. Leave them out and you will likely come across as rude. These include using please and thank you, and politely addressing people in shops or restaurants e.g. referring to waiters and waitresses as Madame or Monsieur.

Is it okay to kiss in public in France?

Public displays of affection in France

People kiss acquaintances when they meet them in the street and you even shake hand with the plumber when he comes to fix your leaky pipe: the French are definitely touchy-feely. So, in Paris (and other major cities) anything goes; elsewhere, be more restrained.

Where are the most Brits in France?

Estimates of the number of British citizens living in France vary from 261,000 to 400,000. Besides Paris, many British expatriates tend to be concentrated in the regions of southern France, Brittany, and recently the island of Corsica. Dordogne has a large British immigrant community.

What is the most English town in France?

According to the town's mayor, Daniel Fasquelle, Le Touquet is aptly known as: "The most British of French resort towns.” Attracting the likes of Winston Churchill and Ian Fleming in the past, Le Touquet even renamed its international airport to honour the late Queen Elizabeth II.

Where do most English-speaking expats live in France?

Clearly, there's a reason why many expats choose to live in Paris, since the French capital is world-renowned for its rich cultural offerings and big city energy. It's also easier to get to from the U.S. than many other French cities, which require train transfers from Paris to access.

What is the safest town in France?

The city of Cherbourg-en-Cotentin, located in the Manche département in north-western France, had the lowest amount of crime overall, ranking in first place. As of 2021, the city was home to 77,808 people, and it is famous for its Cité de la Mer ("city of the sea") maritime museum.

What is the prettiest region of France?

Which is the cheapest place to live in France?

The relatively sparsely populated departments in Central France (Creuse, Vienne, Haute Vienne, Indre, Cher, Allier and Loiret) have traditionally been the cheapest places to buy property in France. This remains the case in 2024.