Leading international schools on the French Riviera: Campus International de Valbonne

Buying a home in the French Riviera is more than the purchase of property. The commitment to building a community, a lifestyle, and a place to call home for family and friends is just as significant as the investment itself.

For families seeking to establish a lasting home, the Riviera provides an exceptional selection of international schools where students can grow academically, socially, and personally. The Valbonne area includes several outstanding institutions, including Mougins School, the International School of Nice (ISN), ICS Côte d'Azur, and the Campus International de Valbonne (CIV). Located in the heart of Sophia Antipolis, CIV exemplifies an educational environment where academic achievement and cultural exchange thrive.

Set within a 12-hectare park in the heart of Europe’s leading technology hub, CIV welcomes nearly 2,300 students each year. Its culturally diverse community spans middle and high school, attracting students from across France and around the world. Specialised courses at CIV include programmes designed for non-French speaking students, structured sports and athletics at the Sevens Academy on campus, and partnerships with cultural institutions such as the Pôle National Supérieur de Danse (PNSD), the French institute for professional dance education. For students aspiring toward higher education in France, the high school offers prepatory classes for the Grandes Écoles (CPGE) in economic, commercial, and scientific fields.

Through its dedication to rigorous academics and student well-being, CIV illustrates that life on the French Riviera offers far more than exceptional real estate. In relocating to its coastal villages or hinterlands, families join a vibrant network with strong infrastructure. The proximity of educational institutions such as the CIV in Sophia Antipolis is a draw for both French and international families, offering the opportunity to enjoy the tranquility of Mediterranean lifestyle without compromising on access to high-quality education.

Relocating to the Côte d'Azur? Read our full breakdown of Top International Schools on the French Riviera and speak to our local team living and working on the Riviera who can offer valuable insight to help you settle in.

Five bedroom villa in Grasse

This property provides easy access to Valbonne, Mougins, and Sophia Antipolis, making it an ideal location for families seeking proximity to several international schools.

Find out more

Private hilltop estate

This extraordinary property combines a grand stone residence with multiple guesthouses, extensive outdoor leisure facilities, and generous entertaining spaces, making it the perfect setting for welcoming family and friends.

Find out more