Moving to France is exciting – sunny café terraces, charming markets and dreamy countryside. But once the honeymoon phase fades, even the most ideal relocation comes with challenges. If you’re feeling homesickness in France, you’re not alone. Whether you’re missing friends, craving comforts from home or just feeling a bit lost, these feelings are completely normal.
The good news? Homesickness doesn’t last forever – and there are practical, comforting ways to ease it. This article will help you settle more confidently, build your support network and find joy in everyday French life.
Contents
- Embrace your ‘outsider’ perspective
- Build meaningful connections locally
- Join an expat network
- Integrate into your French surroundings
- Acknowledge that homesickness is natural
- Frequently asked questions
It’s very normal to deal with homesickness in France after moving abroad, it’s a big life change
Embrace your ‘outsider’ perspective
Adjusting to life in France means accepting that you’ll stand out occasionally – and that’s OK. In fact, seeing the country through new eyes is something to treasure. You’re not expected to fully understand French customs on day one, and most locals won’t expect you to either.
Use your “foreignness” to your advantage. Don’t be shy to ask questions, whether it’s about the cheese at the market or how to register at your local mairie. People will usually appreciate your curiosity and offer friendly guidance. By making an effort to be open, you’ll often find strangers become allies. You may find your homesickness in France falls away.
France is geographically larger than the UK, with fewer people per square kilometre. It can feel isolating if you’re used to crammed commutes and packed High Streets. But this change of pace also comes with bigger gardens, less stress and more room to breathe. Celebrate what’s different – whether that’s morning baguettes, slower lunches or having the time to stroll to your local market.
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Build meaningful connections locally
One of the most effective ways to feel less homesickness in France is to connect with others around you. Starting fresh in a new place doesn’t mean leaving your interests behind – it’s about bringing them with you and discovering what the local area offers that fits your passions.
Look for local clubs or associations. Whether it’s pétanque, gardening, singing, cycling or yoga, French towns – even small villages – often have active social calendars. Approach your mairie or local community centre to find out what’s going on nearby. Many communes publish event listings on their websites or around the town hall.
If faith plays a role in your life, visit the nearest place of worship. Churches, temples or mosques often serve as strong community hubs and offer an easy way to meet people who share your values and interests.
You’re also more likely to meet French neighbours through shared hobbies. This offers the bonus of language practice, but more importantly, it helps build emotional ties and a sense of belonging in your region. Social bonds are vital – studies show that connection with others reduces both loneliness and anxiety in people adapting to new cultural environments.
Join an expat network
While immersing yourself in French life is key, sometimes, you just want someone who understands what you’re going through. That’s where the local expat community can be a lifeline. You’ll likely find people who’ve faced the same questions, worries and joys.
Established expat groups exist in most areas with foreign homebuyers – especially in places like Dordogne, Brittany, Occitanie or the Riviera. They organise meetups, language exchanges and mutual support events ranging from coffee mornings to book clubs. Search for Facebook groups or forums focused on your département or region. Websites like Angloinfo are also great for local expat listings.
There’s no shame in needing some familiarity. Sharing stories about misdelivered post, deciphering French admin or debating the ‘best’ baguette are part of the bonding experience. These communities give you a soft landing while you try to make France feel like home.
Just remember – while the temptation might be to spend all your time with fellow English speakers, balance is important. Try to enjoy the comfort of these conversations while continuing to build links with your French community too.
Integrate into your French surroundings
Developing a sense of routine and place is one of the most reliable ways to fight off homesickness in France. The goal is to stop feeling like you’re constantly on holiday – and start feeling at home. That shift takes time and daily engagement.
Explore your local shops, attend nearby festivals or take part in annual events like the Fête de la Musique or Journées du Patrimoine. These cultural moments can give you talking points with neighbours and help you feel more connected to the rhythm of French life.
Markets, too, are weekly community hotspots. Whether you’re buying tomatoes, chatting with a cheesemonger or sipping coffee with locals, these small moments ground you. Greet people personally with a warm “bonjour” or “bonsoir” – in France, politeness really matters.
Signing up for language lessons in your commune can also help you navigate these daily interactions more confidently. Many towns offer subsidised classes for foreigners at local education centres or via associations. Being able to follow simple chats or eavesdrop a little at the bakery gives you a mental boost – it’s proof that you’re progressing, even when things feel tricky.
Acknowledge that homesickness is natural
Feeling homesickness in France is not a failure. It’s an emotional reaction to change, and everyone processes it in their own time. Studies by the NHS and mental health charities suggest homesickness affects 70–80% of those who relocate abroad – regardless of age or experience.
That wave of longing for the UK might arrive months after you move – often triggered by something as small as a tough day, a grey sky or missing your favourite food. Let yourself feel it without guilt.
Instead of resisting, ask: what’s behind it today? Is it missing family? Frustration with paperwork? A craving for something familiar? Once you identify the trigger, you can do something about it – or at least talk it through with someone who understands.
Try keeping a journal or recording voice notes. Celebrate the good moments as much as the difficult ones. The first time a neighbour invites you for coffee, the first joke you understand in French conversation – they’ll all add up. Eventually, your life in France will be full of memories and rhythms that feel just as close to your heart as anything back home.
Living abroad is a bold decision. Homesickness in France is part of that story – not the whole story. With time, empathy and curiosity, it gets easier. And before you know it, you’ll realise that what once felt foreign now feels like home.
If you have any questions or concerns about starting your new life in France, why not call one of our consultants? We’re always here to help.
Frequently asked questions about homesickness in France
Is it normal to feel homesick after moving to France?
Yes. Homesickness is a completely natural part of adjusting to a new country. It’s common to miss familiar routines, people and comforts, especially during the early months of your move. It doesn’t mean you made the wrong decision.
How long does homesickness last when living abroad?
Homesickness affects people differently. It may last a few weeks or come and go over several months. Establishing a routine, meeting people and building a support network can help reduce feelings of isolation over time.
What helps with homesickness in France?
Staying connected to loved ones, getting involved locally, joining expat groups and taking language lessons all help. Embracing French culture, even in small ways like shopping at markets or saying “bonjour” daily, can ease the transition.
Should I join an expat network in France?
Yes. Expats often provide practical advice and emotional support, especially when you’re feeling homesick. Many organise events, meetups and online forums, helping you feel less alone while navigating a new country.
Will learning French help reduce homesickness?
Absolutely. Even basic language skills improve confidence and open doors to deeper connections with neighbours and local culture. Feeling more independent and capable in daily situations is a big boost when adjusting to life abroad.
