Living as a teenager in France is really unique and exciting. At 17, I get to experience things that are different from what teenagers in other countries might go through. Here’s a look at what makes growing up in France special, from school life to friendships, and all the fun (and challenges) in between.

School Life and Education

School life in France is taken very seriously. Our school days usually start at 8 a.m. and can go until 5 or 6 p.m., which makes for a long day. In high school, especially, there is a big focus on learning and preparing for the “Baccalauréat” or “Bac,” which is our final high school exam. The Bac is important because it’s the main way to get into university or different career paths, so most of us study hard, especially in our last year.

Classes in France can be challenging, but the teachers try to help us understand and do our best. They encourage us to think critically, and it’s normal for us to have debates in class about topics from history to current events. Homework is also a big part of school life, so most of us spend a lot of time outside of school hours studying. Overall, school can be intense, but it teaches us discipline and helps prepare us for the future.

Friendships and Social Life

Friends are a huge part of being a teenager here. French teens like spending time at cafés, in parks, or just hanging out at each other’s houses. Cafés and parks are popular spots where we can chat, laugh, and just relax. French teenagers value friendship deeply, and it’s common to have a close group of friends you hang out with often.

Social media is also a big part of our lives. Apps like Instagram, Snapchat, and TikTok are very popular, and they help us stay connected with friends, even when we’re not together. But despite social media, a lot of us still prefer meeting up in person. We’ll text each other about plans, then meet at a local spot to hang out and talk.

Weekends and Free Time

Weekends in France are usually spent with family or friends, doing things we enjoy. Many teenagers join clubs or play sports. Soccer is really popular, but so are sports like rugby, basketball, and dance. A lot of teens also join art clubs, music lessons, or other activities where we can be creative and relax. These activities are a nice break from school and give us a chance to enjoy our hobbies.

If we’re not busy with clubs or sports, we might go to the movies, check out a new café, or simply take a walk around town. France has beautiful scenery, so whether it’s a city or the countryside, there are always nice places to explore.

The Arts and Culture Scene

France is a dream if you love art, music, and movies. Growing up here means getting to see some of the world’s best art, attend open-air music festivals, and watch French and international films. Every summer, there are free festivals with live music, and museums often have discounts or free days for students. It feels like we’re surrounded by culture, and it’s something that’s valued by everyone.

Movies are also a big deal. French teens often go to the cinema with friends, and there’s a love for both French films and big Hollywood releases. There’s even a Cinéma Fête once a year, where ticket prices drop to just a few euros.

Food and Daily Snacks

Food is a big part of French culture, and even as teenagers, we love it! Meals are a time for everyone to come together, especially dinner, where families sit down together to enjoy good food. At school, we have real meals for lunch, including vegetables, a main dish, and dessert. It’s not just sandwiches or fast food like in some countries.

Snacking is also popular. After school, a lot of us head to bakeries for pastries like croissants or pain au chocolat. Fast food exists here, but French people really appreciate good-quality food. This focus on enjoying meals and snacks is a big part of daily life.

Learning Independence

In France, teenagers are expected to be independent. Many of us start part-time jobs around age 15, like babysitting or working in small shops. This helps us learn responsibility, earn a bit of money, and understand the value of work. Public transportation is also reliable in most places, so we get used to taking buses or trains to get around by ourselves.

We’re encouraged to manage our own schedules, whether it’s balancing schoolwork, activities, or meeting up with friends. By the time we’re in high school, we’re used to handling our daily routines mostly on our own.

Preparing for the Future

As teenagers in France, we’re encouraged to think about our futures early on. The Bac exam plays a huge role in shaping our education and career paths, so even as teens, we focus a lot on what comes after high school. There are options like going to university, enrolling in technical programs, or even working abroad.

The French education system helps us prepare for these choices by offering classes and guidance. Teachers and counselors support us as we plan our next steps, but we’re also given the freedom to choose what we want to pursue.

Life as a Foreign Teenager in France

For foreign teenagers moving to France, adapting to a new language and culture can be both exciting and challenging. One of the first things many face is the language barrier, as most schools and social interactions are primarily in French. Learning French takes time and can feel tough at first, but it’s a great way to connect with new friends and understand daily life better.

For those who may need more support, there are English-speaking international schools in many cities. These schools provide a smoother transition by teaching in English while also offering French lessons, so students can gradually adjust to the language and culture. Outside of school, many French teens are friendly and curious about other cultures, which helps foreign students feel more welcome and at ease.

Final Thoughts on Life as a Teen in France

Growing up in France has been a mix of challenges, learning experiences, and lots of fun. From studying for the Bac to enjoying time with friends at a café, being a teenager here is both demanding and exciting. I’ve learned a lot about balancing my responsibilities with enjoying life and making the most of the rich culture around me.

Living here has helped me become more independent, appreciate good food, and value friendships. France is a beautiful place with a unique lifestyle, and being a teenager here is something I feel lucky to experience.