Study Abroad | French Riviera

Housing

Students can choose from one of the following options: 

Student Residence

Live independently in a centrally located residence, with easy access to classes and Nice city center. All students are provided with a travel pass for use on local public transport system during the program. 

• Studio-style twin rooms, air-conditioned, with kitchenette  (equipped: microwave, fridge, hotplates) and bathroom 
• Linens provided (bed sheets and towels) 
• Laundry facilities (incurs a fee)  

Homestay

A unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the language and culture of France. Some students find this aspect of the program the most rewarding. All families are carefully selected and must meet strict requirements and standards to host students. 

• Double room 
• Shared bathroom 
• Traditional French breakfast and evening meal in homestay 7 days per week
• Laundry access once per week 
• Single rooms are available for an additional fee: 
  • Spring 2027 Language and Culture Program: $500, Other Terms TBC
  • Spring 2027 Language and Culture + Cannes Film Festival: $580, Other Terms TBC

Cannes Film Festival Internship Housing (Spring Study + Internship Program only) 

For the duration of the internship placement, students will be housed in a residence in Cannes so they can be in the heart of the action and be more conveniently located for working or attending evening events.  

The student residence is a short bus ride from the Festival Hall, or a 20-minute walk. Students will be housed in  twin or triple studios, with en suite bathrooms, kitchenettes, air conditioning and an outdoor swimming pool.    

City Facts

Culture

The South of France has captivated the imagination of travelers, artists and philosophers for centuries. It is a geographically intense and ethnically diverse part of Europe. Nice is renowned worldwide for the beauty of its setting, its Mediterranean light, and its cultural heritage. 

Nice is situated near some of the best museums in France, including the Musée Matisse and Musée Chagall in Nice, the Musée Picasso in Antibes, and the Fondation Maeght in Saint-Paul de Vence. 

Geography

With a population of approximately 350,000 people, Nice provides all of the conveniences of cosmopolitan living. Situated on the Baie des Anges, it is ideally located for travel on the French Riviera. Nice is close to Monaco, Antibes, Cannes, and the Italian border.  

The city itself has distinct districts, or neighborhoods, to explore when not in class. 

The Old Town, Vieux Nice, is one of the city’s most vibrant areas, its narrow streets, colorful facades, and lively cafés make it a popular destination for students and visitors.  

The Promenade des Anglais features elegant Belle Époque buildings, and a seaside atmosphere. Many restaurants, cafés, and independent shops are located in this area.  

Castle Hill overlooks the city and offers panoramic views over the Bay of Angels, the port, and the rooftops of Nice. Its narrow streets, colorful facades, and lively squares make it one of the most memorable parts of the city. 

Climate

The mild climate of the Côte d’Azur is ideal for those who enjoy outdoor life. 

Cuisine

Nice is known for Niçoise and Provençal cuisine, with local specialties such as salade niçoise, socca, pissaladière, pan bagnat, and a variety of Mediterranean dishes. The French take much pride in the preparation, presentation and consumption of their food. 

Nice Markets

The Cours Saleya Market, in the heart of Vieux Nice, is one of the city’s most famous markets. It is known for flowers, fruit, vegetables, and local products. On Mondays, Cours Saleya hosts an antiques market. Another important market is the Marché de la Libération, a lively daily food market popular with locals. Smaller neighborhood markets can also be found in areas such as Saint-Roch. 

Sports

Nice’s sunny climate is ideal for outdoor activities such as swimming, sailing, and running. You can also participate in team sports including basketball, soccer, and volleyball. Depending on the season, students may be able to ski in the Southern Alps, about 1.5 to 2 hours away. 

Site Staff

AIFS Abroad Program Coordinator, Academic Year and Semester Programs

Aude Romens

I was born in Paris, but I grew up in Cannes. I studied 2 years, communication, art & languages at Nice university. After my studies, I decided to travel on my own, in different countries and continents such as   Europe, America, Asia, Australia and north Africa. I speak French, English, Spanish and Italian.

I started to work with AIFS Abroad in 2004. I was in charge of the cultural activities. I have a strong knowledge of the Provence area, climate, architecture, culture, and economy. I will be pleased to help all students with any questions or concerns during their stay in France and share my culture with them.

The Program Coordinator provides academic advice, introduces you to the community and handles communication with the University.

Cultural Activities

In addition to day trips and excursions, a cultural calendar of weekly activities and social events is included in your program fee. These activities will include both typical tourist sites and attractions and lesser known visits which take advantage of the expert knowledge of our local AIFS Abroad staff and give you a more authentic and insightful view of French life. Typical activities, tours and visits include: 

• Nice city tour 
• Welcome meal 
• Farewell meal 
• Walking tours 
• Museum visits 
• Theatre/dance/sport activity 
• Local Festivals 
• Wine and cheese tasting 
• Excursions to Monaco, Antibes, Cannes, and Grasse

You may be asked to pay a small supplementary fee for some activities and events. 

Art Museums of the Riviera 

From the last quarter of the 19th century through the first quarter of the 20th century, Provence was one of the most important regions for creative development in the art world. Monet and Renoir were drawn to the region’s spectacular landscape, closely followed by French and foreign post-Impressionists such as Cézanne, Gauguin and Van Gogh.  

• Biot – Musée Leger 
• Cagnes-sur-Mer – Maison Renoir  
• St. Paul de Vence – Fondation Maeght 
• Le Cannet – Musée Pierre Bonnard 
• Nice 
  • Musée Chagall 
  • Musee Matisse 
  • Musee des Beaux Arts 
  • Museum of Modern Art 

Volunteering

In addition to the internship during the Cannes Film Festival there may be other opportunities to volunteer during the semester. AIFS Abroad can arrange volunteer activities and placements across a variety of fields and a wide range of organizations. Recent placements have included:

• T.V. production companies 
• Tutoring elementary school children