Looking to gain international experience? This guide to internships in France is your perfect starting point! Whether you’re interested in business, fashion, or especially food, France offers exciting opportunities across all fields. If you’re passionate about cooking, a culinary internship in France lets you train under top chefs in world-renowned kitchens.today!
Dreaming of Internships in France?
If you’ve ever dreamed of sipping coffee in a Parisian café before heading to your internship, you’re not alone. France has become one of the top destinations for students and young professionals seeking internships that offer both hands-on experience and cultural immersion.
Whether you’re studying business, art, fashion, or especially gastronomy, internships in France are a great way to build your resume while experiencing life in one of the most beautiful and historic countries in the world.
But if your heart is in the kitchen, then a culinary internship in France might just be your perfect recipe for success.
Why Choose an Internship in France?
France is home to world-class industries, centuries-old traditions, and some of the best universities in Europe. Here’s why internships in France stand out:
- Cultural richness: Art, history, fashion, cuisine—you name it.
- Networking opportunities: France is home to global brands and Michelin-starred chefs.
- Language skills: While many internships are available in English, being immersed in French culture is the best way to learn the language.
- Paid and unpaid opportunities: Depending on the sector, some internships in France offer a stipend.
Culinary Internship in France: A Feast of Experience
If you’re passionate about cooking, France is the holy grail of culinary arts. From bustling Paris kitchens to quaint countryside bakeries, the opportunities are endless.
What You’ll Learn
- Classic French cooking techniques
- Modern plating and presentation
- Pastry and boulangerie skills
- Working in high-pressure environments
Whether you’re aiming to become a chef or open your own restaurant someday, a culinary internship in France can give you the foundation and confidence you need.
Where Can You Intern?
Popular Cities for Internships:
- Paris – The center for fashion, finance, and high-end culinary establishments
- Lyon – Known as the gastronomic capital of France
- Nice – Perfect for those who love sunshine and tourism-driven opportunities
- Bordeaux – Great for wine lovers and culinary interns
Culinary Internship Hotspots:
- Michelin-starred restaurants
- Artisan bakeries
- Boutique hotels
- Culinary schools like Le Cordon Bleu, Ferrandi, and Institut Paul Bocuse
How to Apply for an Internship in France
- Prepare your CV and cover letter – In both English and French if possible.
- Choose your city and type of internship – Be clear about your goals.
- Reach out to host companies or apply through programs – There are placement agencies that specialize in internships in France.
- Apply for a visa – Most students need a visa; check your country’s requirements.
- Learn some basic French – Even if your internship is in English, it helps a lot!
Real Stories: Testimonials from Past Interns
“I completed a 6-month culinary internship in Lyon, and it changed my life. I learned more in those six months than in two years of culinary school. And the wine, oh my god!”
— Maria S., Culinary Student from Canada
“I interned at a luxury hotel in Paris. My tasks ranged from assisting the head pastry chef to prepping dishes for celebrity guests. It was intense, but I’d do it again in a heartbeat.”
— Jordan W., Hospitality Management Graduate from Australia
“I didn’t know much French, but my internship supervisor was so supportive. I worked in a small café in Bordeaux and improved both my cooking and my language skills!”
— Anika R., Culinary Enthusiast from IndiaUse University & Program Connections
Many internships in Paris, France are secured through:
- University partnerships
- Exchange programs
- Internship placement agencies
If your school is partnered with a French institution or program, you may be eligible for pre-arranged internships with stipends and accommodation support.
Don’t forget to explore platforms like Destiny Calling’s France Internship Program—specially designed to connect international students with paid internships in France across multiple sectors.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Do I need to speak French to get an internship in France?
Not necessarily. Many international companies and culinary schools offer programs in English. However, learning basic French will help you navigate daily life and workplace communication.
2. Are culinary internships in France paid?
Some are, especially longer internships (more than 2 months) which must legally provide a stipend. However, many high-end restaurants offer unpaid internships in exchange for top-tier experience.
3. How long are internships in France?
Internships typically range from 2 to 6 months. Culinary internships often follow this pattern as well.
4. Can I get accommodation as part of my internship?
Some programs or employers offer accommodation, especially in the hospitality or culinary sectors. Be sure to ask this during the application process.
5. How do I get a visa for an internship in France?
If your internship is over 90 days, you’ll usually need a long-stay visa. You’ll need a signed internship agreement (convention de stage) from your employer or placement organization.
6. What is the best time to apply?
It’s ideal to apply 4–6 months in advance to secure your placement and complete all paperwork.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re looking to build a global career, sharpen your culinary knife skills, or just live a little French joie de vivre, internships in France offer a path that’s as exciting as it is enriching. And if food is your passion, a culinary internship in France might just be your dream come true.
Start researching, start applying, and start packing. France is waiting for you.
