Study abroad students will quickly discover that Paris provides the ideal setting for studying French language and culture. The city’s tremendous history and culture transform the city into a veritable extension of the classroom. Its status as one of Europe's great cities means that the worlds of culture, art, music, fashion, theater, architecture, and thought are all at your fingertips. The important role of the University of Paris and its student population mean that much of the city caters extensively to students, with low cost eateries and endless nightlife. And as the central hub in France, it makes an excellent point for exploring France and Europe. You will be a short train ride away from the beaches of the Riviera, skiing in the Alps, and other cities like London, Munich, and Amsterdam!

Culture

As the capital of one of the world's most centralized countries, Paris is Europe's strongest cultural capital. Monuments such as the Arc de Triomphe, the Eiffel Tower, and the Louvre are testaments to France's intellectual, artistic, and military might. With not one, but two, opera houses, Paris offers an endless array of theater productions to even the tamest patron of the arts. Museums like the Louvre and the Musée d'Orsay house not only the best in French art, but the most famous and respected paintings and sculptures from around the world. Keeping well in step with the times, Paris also offers enough cinema, music, fashion, and pop culture to keep even the heartiest cultural appetites satiated.

Student Life

Students from around France flock to the universities in Paris, which gives the city a strong student ambiance. Paris abounds with restaurants, cafés, and theaters that cater to students. The city's nightlife is endless, and students immerse themselves into Parisian culture by going out to the many clubs and discothèques around town. The city also organizes many events for its students, and travel agencies put together excellent trips for students throughout France and around Europe.

Geography

Thanks to France's strong tradition of centralization, Paris is an excellent hub with countless options for adventure and exploration. The beautiful Mediterranean beaches of the Riviera await only a few hours away by train. Ski resorts in the Alps are just as close, and University ski clubs organize several trips over holidays or weekends. Even an impromptu trip to London is easily doable, thanks to the Channel Tunnel. And travel agencies put together inexpensive package deals to such European destinations as Barcelona, Rome, Athens, and Prague.