15 Best French TV Shows to Learn French in 2024
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One of the best ways to learn a new language is to immerse yourself in it. I studied French in school for two years and endured too many grammar lessons trying to remember every verb conjugation. It wasn’t until I moved to France and became surrounded by French culture that I significantly improved in the language.
Fortunately, you don’t need to fly across the globe to learn a language like I did. It’s surprisingly easy to learn a language wherever you are in the world. Read books and magazines, talk with native speakers, and watch TV shows.
There are many excellent French series available that can help you develop your vocabulary and improve in French language skills. You’ll also pick up on slang terms and more natural ways of speaking instead of robotic sentence formations.
In this blog post, I’ll be unveiling the 15 best French TV shows to learn French (or just enjoy the culture!). From gripping crime dramas to heartwarming comedies, these series are readily accessible on popular streaming platforms like Netflix and Amazon Prime.
Depending on your level, you can also turn on subtitles to help you better understand the dialogue. Thankfully, many of these shows offer English subtitles.
I’ve watched the majority of these shows, (some of them with my French petit ami), and they have helped me advance in the language and actually enjoy it. I hope they will help you improve your French too!
15 Best French TV Shows to Learn French in 2024
1. A Very Secret Service (Au service de la France)
If you're already familiar with French cinema, chances are you've come across the iconic OSS 117 films. "A Very Secret Service" carries a similar nostalgic vibe reminiscent of the 50s era.
Created by Jean-François Halin, this critically acclaimed series offers a hilarious yet insightful take on the world of espionage during a tumultuous period in French history. Set during the Cold War, this series is a clever blend of espionage, satire, and comedy that follows the misadventures of André Merlaux, a young recruit in the French Secret Service.
It has a stellar ensemble cast led by the charismatic Hugo Becker (who you might know as Prince Louis from Gossip Girl).
For me, "A Very Secret Service" ranks as my top pick among French shows, thanks to its sharp dialogue, talented cast, and vintage aesthetic.
2. Kaamelott
Kaamelott was actually recommended to me by my French boyfriend, and it's easy to see why. For fans of medieval fantasy and irreverent humor, "Kaamelott" is an absolute gem.
Set in the mythical kingdom of Britannia, "Kaamelott" follows the eccentric and often bumbling King Arthur as he navigates the challenges of ruling a kingdom plagued by incompetence, betrayal, and fantastical creatures.
Full of iconic catchphrases, memorable characters, and epic quests, "Kaamelott" has become a cultural phenomenon in France and has even garnered a dedicated international following.
What sets "Kaamelott" apart is its unique format—each season consists of approximately 50 episodes, each just three minutes long.
While some of the jokes might fly over the heads of beginners in French, the show is hilarious and reminds me of another classic, "Monty Python and the Holy Grail."
3. Family Business
For fans of comedy with a dash of drama, "Family Business" delivers a hilarious and heartwarming take on the cannabis industry. The series follows Joseph, a struggling entrepreneur, who, with the help of his eccentric family, decides to turn their failing kosher butcher shop into the first French marijuana café.
As they navigate the highs and lows of the cannabis business, the Mishka family finds themselves embroiled in a series of absurd situations, rivalries, and unexpected alliances.
Featuring an exceptional ensemble cast of French actors, including one of my favorites, Jonathan Cohen, "Family Business" is a delightful binge-worthy treat that offers both laughs and heartfelt moments.
It's worth noting that the series has plenty of slang, perfect if you’re looking to improve your casual conversational skills.
4. Grégory
If you love a good murder mystery, then this true crime docuseries on Netflix is a must-watch.
"Grégory" is a compelling docudrama that delves into one of France's most infamous criminal cases—the murder of Grégory Villemin. Through a mix of archival footage, interviews, and dramatic reenactments, the series meticulously examines the twists and turns of the investigation, the media frenzy that ensued, and the enduring impact on the Villemin family and the community of Vosges.
With its gripping storytelling and meticulous attention to detail, "Grégory" offers a chilling and thought-provoking exploration of justice, media ethics, and the human cost of tragedy.
I was absolutely captivated by this documentary, and I have no doubt that you will be too!
5. A French Village (Un village français)
For history fans, "A French Village" is an absolute must-watch. This historical drama centers around the narrative of, as the title suggests, a quaint French village—the fictional village of Villeneuve.
Set against the backdrop of World War II, the series follows the residents of the French village under German occupation. As they navigate the complexities of collaboration, resistance, and survival, the characters grapple with moral dilemmas and personal sacrifices in their fight for freedom and justice.
Featuring compelling storytelling, meticulous attention to historical detail, and a stellar ensemble cast, "A French Village" offers a memorable portrayal of life during wartime.
If you're fascinated by military dramas and World War II history that goes beyond just warfare, this French series is certain to resonate with you.
6. The Visitor from the Future (Le visiteur du futur)
"The Visitor from the Future" is a groundbreaking sci-fi web series that follows the adventures of Raph, a time traveler from the future, who finds himself entangled in a series of paradoxes and conspiracies.
Raph is tasked with preventing catastrophes in the past that could alter the course of history. Alongside his friends, Raph navigates through various time periods, encountering unexpected challenges along the way.
Acclaimed for its innovative storytelling and imaginative premise, "The Visitor from the Future" has garnered a cult following and cemented its status as a cult classic in French sci-fi.
7. Call My Agent! (Dix pour cent)
“Call My Agent!” is a series you’ll find on almost any French TV show list, and for good reason!
Featuring a stellar cast of French actors and a witty script, this comedy-drama series has earned widespread praise for its sharp wit and authentic portrayal of the entertainment industry.
The show offers a peek behind the scenes of a Parisian talent agency. Through the eyes of the agents and their celebrity clients, “Call My Agent!” provides a humorous and insightful look into the cutthroat world of showbiz.
With numerous cameos by renowned French actors (including Charlotte Gainsbourg, Jean Reno, and Juliette Binoche), this series is an excellent opportunity to familiarize oneself with prominent figures in the French entertainment scene.
This was the very first French series that I watched, but I’d recommend it for intermediate and advanced learners as the dialogue moves quickly.
8. Marseille
A tale of power, corruption and redemption, this political drama is perfect for “House of Cards” fans.
Set in the French port city of Marseille, the series follows the power struggles and corruption within the city's political elite. As Mayor Robert Taro battles to maintain control, he faces formidable adversaries, including his young and ambitious former protégé Lucas Barrès.
Intricate plotlines, complex characters, and stunning cinematography — “Marseille” offers a riveting portrayal of ambition, betrayal, and the world of organized crime.
I also appreciate how this show captures the beautiful scenery of Marseille! It’s definitely a must-watch if you dream of visiting the southern French city.
9. Braquo
“Braquo” follows a group of Parisian police officers who resort to extreme measures to seek justice and avenge their fallen comrade.
When their colleague Max tragically takes his own life following a case implicating him, the lives of four policemen are forever altered. Determined to uphold Max's memory, they decide to defy the boundaries of legality, crossing the "yellow line" to take matters into their own hands.
While you may not catch every French conversation in this gritty police drama, the series offers plenty of riveting action sequences and emotionally charged performances to keep you on the edge of your seat.
10. La Flamme
Any fan of “The Bachelor” will enjoy Jonathan Cohen’s comical parody of the popular dating show.
Over the course of nine weeks, thirteen women compete to seduce Marc, an airline pilot, in an attempt to ignite his passion—dubbed la flamme (the flame).
Full of sharp wit and outrageous humor, “La Flamme” provides laugh-out-loud commentary on love, presenting a satirical take on modern romance and celebrity culture.
This show is an absolute must-watch if you're in need of a good laugh. I’ve rewatched it several times because it’s truly one of my favorite French TV series. Just ask my French boyfriend, who frequently quotes it with me.
And if you fall in love with this show yourself, you won't want to miss out on the spin-off series, "Le Flambeau: Les Aventuriers de Chupacabra," where Marc and fifteen contestants face off and navigate survival on an island.
11. Versailles
Immerse yourself in the opulent world of 17th-century France with "Versailles." This lavish historical drama chronicles the reign of King Louis XIV and the construction of the Palace of Versailles.
In 1667, Louis XIV starts executing his plan of building a palace to bring the rebelling nobles under his sovereignty. As his plan plays out, Louis grapples with war, betrayal, love and royal secrets.
If you've ever had the chance to visit Versailles, you're aware of its beauty, and "Versailles" impeccably captures its magnificence through stunning sets. Along with lavish costumes and a captivating storyline, "Versailles" will transport you to an era of unparalleled splendor and decadence.
12. The Chalet (Le chalet)
For those who need a dose of suspense, "The Chalet" is a must-watch.
This French mystery thriller follows a group of friends on a ski trip to an isolated chalet in the French Alps. When an avalanche cuts them off from the outside world, they discover a dark secret that throws their friendships and their very lives into jeopardy.
Packed with unpredictable twists, the series will keep you guessing until the very end. And with only six episodes, it's an ideal show for a short TV binge when you're in need of a quick thrill.
After seeing the latest French thriller “Anatomy of a Fall” along with “The Chalet”, you might find yourself steering clear of the French Alps!
13. Lupin
If you’re searching for a thrilling adventure, "Lupin" is an essential addition to your watchlist. The French mystery thriller series is inspired by the adventures of Arsène Lupin, a fictional gentleman thief and master of disguise created by French writer Maurice Leblanc.
In "Lupin," the main character, Assane Diop, played by the charismatic Omar Sy (who you might know from “The Intouchables”), is heavily influenced by the stories of Arsène Lupin.
Assane seeks to avenge his father, who was framed for a crime he didn't commit by a wealthy and powerful family, the Pellegrinis. Assane uses his intelligence, charm, and mastery of deception to outsmart his adversaries while executing daring heists and seeking justice for his father.
“Lupin” has taken the world by storm, becoming a global phenomenon, making it one of the best French TV shows of recent years.
14. The Bureau (Le bureau des légendes)
This critically acclaimed French thriller series delves into the world of French intelligence agents and their covert operations.
“The Bureau” follows the lives of intelligence agents working for the DGSE, France's intelligence agency. Led by the enigmatic Guillaume Debailly, aka "Malotru," the agents navigate the complex and dangerous world of undercover operations, international intrigue, and personal betrayals.
With its incredible storytelling, nuanced character development, and gripping plot twists, “The Bureau” has been praised as one of the best spy dramas of recent years.
While some vocabulary may be challenging for English speakers, you can easily find episodes with English and French subtitles.
15. Baron Noir
Interested in the murky, yet cutthroat world of French politics? Look no further than "Baron Noir."
The series centers around Philippe Rickwaert, a seasoned but ruthless politician battling to regain his former glory after a betrayal. As he navigates power, alliances, and political machinations, Philippe grapples with personal demons and moral dilemmas that threaten to consume him.
"Baron Noir" offers an insightful look into the workings of French politics, highlighting ambition, opportunism, and the price of playing the game. Expect sharp dialogue, complex characters, and a portrayal of political ambition that leaves you both intrigued and appalled.
In many ways, "Baron Noir" shares similarities with "Marseille," another must-see French series that I’ve mentioned above!
What are your favorite French TV shows? Let me know in the comments below.
