The Best VPN for France in 2023

The French are known for their rebellious nature and have a free-spirited personality. Roaming around the neighborhood, surfing the internet, and basically existing without having to think about their safety is a concept well known to French people.

Now, if you are a tourist in one of the most visited countries, France – there are a few things you should know.

Recently, the state has increased its surveillance. France’s famous motto “liberté, égalité, fraternité” does not hold much significance anymore. With all its glory, you still can’t access US Netflix, HBO, BBC iPlayer, or any other streaming service that the state prohibits.

Over the past few years, cyber laws have changed immensely. it is mandatory for ISPs to share users’ data. There’s no alternative. The French republic has its own absurd policies where the state filters content according to their so-called needs. Even simple, everyday services like Youtube are filtered – you can’t access the same videos from back home.

Knowing all this, you should definitely be on the hunt for the best VPN for France. Fortunately, we are going to provide a breakthrough for popular VPN services, both paid and free. The upcoming list is ranked on the basis of:

1. Server coverage
2. High-speed connectivity
3. Military-grade security
4. Zero-log policies

So, here’s a quick look at the working France VPNs that can not only unblock Netflix in France but also provides access to French content abroad:

List of the Best VPN Services for France

1. Surfshark – a budget-friendly VPN that unblocks 15 different Netflix libraries and has over 4 French servers out of 3200+ worldwide is an inexpensive VPN, yet it allows unlimited simultaneous connections on one subscription.
2. ExpressVPN – By far one of the most well-known VPNs, this tool guarantees no-buffer streaming. Along with 3000+ servers globally, there are 2 servers located in France. If you visit France along with your family, connect this VPN on all of your devices simultaneously – up to 5 allowed.
3. NordVPN –  This VPN is equipped with 5200+ servers and 230 are located in France alone. Access your favorite sites anywhere, anytime is the VPN’s motto and it surely stands by it.
4. IPVanish has 2000+ servers in 75+ locations and 26 of those are based in France. Unlike other VPNs, connect unlimited devices on just one subscription. It is certainly the best VPN app for France.
5. CyberGhost – A modern-day, sleek-looking VPN, it is designed to bypass geo-restricted content. The VPN has exponentially grown its servers, and they now stand at 7700 servers in 90+ countries. And the best fact, 418 servers are based in France. Be anonymous in France and connect up to 7 devices at a time.
6. StrongVPN – It offers the best security service a France VPN can. And it includes 7 servers in the country, while there are 950+ worldwide. On top of all this, you can connect over 12 devices on a single subscription at reasonable rates.
7. PrivateVPN – Get easy access to Netflix, Hulu, HBO, and any other site. PrivateVPN has 200+ servers covering 60+ countries, with one dedicated in France.

How to Get a French IP Address and Access French Television When Abroad

Now, if you are an expat and traveling outside France and feeling homesick when abroad, a VPN can help you in a way. In fact, with Surfshark, you can unblock France’s most-popular channels – Euronews, France 24, RTBF, etc.

But it is important to make sure that your privacy isn’t compromised and you remain safe from hackers and snoopers. With Surfshark, you can simply get a French IP address and access local content. Here’s a step-by-step guideline:

Steps To Get a French IP Address

1. Firstly, sign up for Surfshark (our recommended option).
2. Download and install the ExpressVPN app or an extension on your desktop browser – either way is fine.
3. Subscribe to the service by choosing one of its plans. It’s comparatively cheaper.
4. When choosing servers, click on France. You now get a local IP address. Use it to the fullest.
5. That’s about it. You can now access your favorite French channels. Also, to be on the safe side, clean your browser so it doesn’t have any cookies and cache left.

In-Depth Analysis of the Best VPN for France in 2023

1. Surfshark – Offers unlimited simultaneous connections at the lowest price in the industry
2. ExpressVPN – Comes with the strongest security protocols to get a French IP address
3. NordVPN – Considered to be the best for streaming French content abroad
4. IPVanish – Located in the US, unblocking US content in France is never impossible
5. CyberGhost – Offers the longest, 45-day money-back guarantee
6. StrongVPN – Easy-to-use applications for both Android and iOS
7. PrivateVPN – Offers 1-click-setup, for streaming in France

1. Surfshark – Offers unlimited simultaneous connections at the lowest price in the industry

Surfshark has had a fairly well-received response over the past 3 years. Founded in 2018, it has come a long way since. It is the go-to VPN for millions of users – definitely a trustworthy name. Surfshark cares for its users – their prompt customer care service is proof of that. For any queries, contact live chat. Rest assured, Surfshark is affordable $1.99/mo (Save 86% and get 3 extra months FREE with 24-month plan), yet it allows unlimited connections and handles HD streaming quite well.

Speaking of HD streaming, you should know that Surfshark has 3200+ servers in 65 countries. Hop from one server to another as you search for the “perfect” one in terms of content availability. With the help of Surfshark, access the likes of Netflix US, HBO, Hulu, or any streaming service that is geo-blocked in France. Its prominent NoBoarders mode can bypass any region, and in most cases, it automatically turns on.

Also, Surfshark is certified by Cure53, a German cybersecurity company. It does not hold back, and can surely be considered as the best VPN for privacy in France. This tool is encrypted with AES-256 while industry-leading IKEv2/IPsec and OpenVPN are the default protocols.

Now, if you are more conscious of “security”, know that Surfshark has laid out dozens of features to protect you. MultiHop and Camouflage Mode are specifically designed to mask your IP address, providing an anonymous experience. And you might as well block annoying ads on the way as well by using Surfshark’s CleanWeb tool. The case with DNS leak is the same – Surfshark will block requests.

In the worst-case scenario, even if your connection drops and a hacker intrudes – Surfshark’s kill switch will disrupt file-sharing and lock your data. And if you don’t approve of the service for whatever reason, you can ask for a refund under 30-days. Install Surfshark right now on either Android, iOS, macOS, Windows, etc.

Pros

• No logs are saved
• An inexpensive option
• Well-rounded features

Cons

• A rather small network when compared to other VPNs

2. ExpressVPN – Comes with the strongest security protocols to get a French IP address

ExpressVPN is not only the most popular VPN, but it is well-rounded with different features. As its “red” theme signifies, the VPN provides consistent lightning-fast connections and allows the user to stream from networks of any region.

And if you face any disruptions along the way, contact live to chat support – active 24/7. It’s unlikely that you’ll face any problem though. ExpressVPN can handle up to 5 devices on one subscription, there’s no compromise on speed or individual privacy.

Now, when it comes to privacy, ExpressVPN has high-priority not just for the sake of it, but it’s evident through its featured TrustedServer technology and split tunneling. Both help in further encrypting your data and prevent data breaches. Even by default, your privacy will remain intact by AES-256 and there are dozens of protocols to choose from; OpenVPN, Lightway, WireGuard, etc.

And a fact worth pointing out, ExpressVPN can even be used on routers – establish a connection over Wi-Fi or ethernet. ExpressVPN routers are still in the trial but are protected with Network Lock, a kill switch.

Lastly, this VPN has a built-in DNS leak test feature. Make sure to test your device’s DNS, you can never trust your ISP with security concerns. The same is the case with a WebRTC leak test. Anyway, install ExpressVPN on Android, iOS, macOS, and even routers. You can avail ExpressVPN 7-day free trial offer easily. Moreover, you will get a 30-day money-back guarantee for each subscription you choose.

Pros

• Access tv, ZDF, and Canal+ while away from France as well
• Customizable plans
• Other than email entries, no logs are saved

Cons

• Slightly overpriced

3. NordVPN – Considered to be the best for streaming French content abroad

NordVPN was a mere startup and is now globally recognized as a “renowned” VPN that encompasses countless features. In fact, it’s ranked as the number one recommendation. NordVPN is ideal in the sense that it cares for you – helping out in every step, and its customer support is commendable. NordVPN provides a personal IP address for an anonymous experience online.

Most importantly, NordVPN doesn’t limit its users with bandwidth and speed, it casually streams different Netflix libraries and other mainstream services; HBO, Disney+, Hulu, etc. Once you’re connected, know that SmartPlay and SmartDNS will bypass restricted regions easily.

In terms of security, NordVPN offers nothing less than the best – encrypted with AES-256-GCM and 4096-bit DH key, it has military-grade protection. The 230+ French servers use OpenVPN as the default protocol, while IPSec/IKEv2 and WireGuard are options among many. A noteworthy fact is that Onion over VPN functionality is supported – creating a connection with the Tor network.

Also, you can avoid any regrets later on by trying out NordVPN for free. Yes, enjoy a risk-free 30-day VPN experience, and get a refund later on. The VPN isn’t limited to mobile (Android/iOS) and desktop (macOS, Windows) but extends to routers as well.

Pros

• No bandwidth restrictions
• Increased security with Double VPN
• Stability all-around

Cons

• Torrenting is limited to a few servers

4. IPVanish – Located in the US, unblocking US content in France is never impossible

IPVanish performs the same functions as its name suggests. With this tool, “vanish” your IP and have a smooth, carefree experience online. IPVanish is trusted by thousands of users and has been recommended by IGN, Forbes, TechRadar, and others, rightfully so. Its straightforward customer service might be one of the reasons.

The VPN can unblock most streaming services. Whether it be Netflix, Hulu, or even everyday sites like YouTube and Wikipedia. And a notable fact, these servers are actually owned by IPVanish, unlike most VPNs that simply rent it. If the connection drops while you’re watching a show, don’t worry. IPVanish has a DNS leak protection policy.

As far as security is concerned, IPVanish has state-of-the-art packaging. Incorporated with 256-bit encryption, OpenVPN as the protocol, SHA512 authentication, and even a cloud backup facility (SugarSync®) – encrypt important documents and keep them safe from hackers with IPVanish. You can sync up to 500 GB. However, IPVanish does not support WireGuard, at least not right now.

So, set up IPVanish on your tv – it is preferred by Kodi, Firestick TV, and Amazon Fire TV. And the usual native apps are available for Android, iOS, Linux, Windows, and macOS. Overall, it’s a well-rounded VPN but the privacy policy is sketchy. So, if any problem occurs, ask for a refund under 30-day and get your cashback instantly.

Pros

• Consistent 4K streaming
• Stable performance in terms of speed
• Malware protection and ad-blocking tool included

Cons

• Cluttered interface

5. CyberGhost – Offers the longest, 45-day money-back guarantee

CyberGhost has been around for 15 years now, A Romanian-based VPN, it is a renowned privacy and security solution provider, it comes along with a number of features. For instance, CyberGhost has a 93 Mbps connection speed that helps with streaming content. Be anonymous and access Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video.

 The VPN is literally like a “ghost”. It masks your IP address in a way that no one can track it – the French government, hackers, or even ISPs. Even the developers call the users “ghostie” on the website. CyberGhost has 256-bit encryption coupled with optional protocols. We recommended that you use OpenVPN on whichever server. And the list doesn’t end here. The VPN further includes a Kill Switch, DNS leak protection, and an ad-blocker.

CyberGhost basically unblocks sites and leaves traces of encrypted internet traffic along the way. And unlike other VPNs, this tool has a 45-day money-back guarantee. So, install the software on either Android, iOS, Windows, Linux, or your local router. If you have a question or want to purchase a plan, contact CyberGhost – customer care is available 24/7.

Pros

• Smooth, pleasing UI
• Currently at 83% off
• No logs are saved whatsoever

Cons

• Advanced features aren’t customizable

6. StrongVPN – Easy-to-use applications for both Android and iOS

Let’s start off by acknowledging how basic StrongVPN is in terms of use. The detailed, planned out UI makes it easy to navigate through. Their well-trained tech support is always up to help you out, 24/7. StrongVPN has marked its name by caring for its users. You can even get SugarSync, a cloud storage service.

StrongVPN has been tested out and it easily bypassed Netflix’s security, access any library on the app or desktop. But make sure that you find a compatible server – 950+ options. The same is the case with Disney+, Hulu, and BBC iPlayer. It is guaranteed that your ISP won’t snoop and neither will the French government because of StrongVPN’s intense IP masking. And there are facts to prove it, read on.

This software has installed AES-256-CBC channel encryption, 2048-bit Diffie Hellman RSA key, SHA256 authentication, and has a wide range of protocols. The most popular being, Wireguard. You can consider other options too – IKEv2, OpenVPN, L2TP. And if you want to increase security any further, use the kill switch and initiate DNS leak protection too.

There’s also a built-in feature of its own – StrongDNS. This way, the VPN has used its own private DNS servers to offer a simple, quick solution. Use all these features on up to 12 devices together. Supported devices are Android, iOS, macOS, Windows, and Amazon Fire TV. If the service doesn’t satisfy you in any way, later on, ask for a refund. There’s always a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Pros

• Torrenting and P2P sharing allowed
• Ranked as 28 out of 75 VPNs
• No logs counted

Cons

• Jurisdiction is in California. A not-so secure place

7. PrivateVPN – Offers 1-click-setup, for streaming in France

PrivateVPN is recognized as the go-to, purple-colored VPN, but what are the features? Well, PrivateVPN has been on a rage since 2009. Over the years, it has helped users maintain their anonymity and surface the internet without any problem. It has protected 15000TB worth of data to be accurate. With a 1-click-setup, you get unlimited access to streaming. Play global content on YouTube, Netflix, Hulu, and access local French channels as well. Depending on your location and choice, there’s liberty.

PrivateVPN has a simple, plain old proxy policy. It uses SOCKS5 And HTTP. While the protocols are rather diverse – OpenVPN, L2TP, IKEv2, PPTP, and IPSec. You’re under military-grade protection with 2048-bit AES-256 as the encryption. Potential hackers and snoopers will have to think twice before breaking in. To prevent data leaks, PrivateVPN uses an automated kill switch. Most support P2P activity as well. For any questions, you can even contact their remote customer support – they’ll surely help out for free.

Ultimately, PrivateVPN provides hundreds of IPs in France and even has a 7-day cashback policy. With this VPN, the entire family can have a pleasant experience. As 6 connections are simultaneously allowed. Install it right now on Windows, iOS, Android, and macOS.

Pros

• Quick support for desktop and mobile devices
• No plan costs more than $9.90/mo
• Anonymous torrenting

Cons

• The lack of servers might not be suitable for everyone

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Are torrents illegal in France?
2. Is VPN legal in France?
3. Which free VPN is best in France?

Are torrents illegal in France?

Torrenting itself isn’t illegal, it never was. However, downloading copyrighted material might be troublesome – movies, shows, books, music, etc. Material such as these belongs to individual artists and they can file a case against you. However, it’s very unlikely. Ever since the HADOPI law was repealed, there hasn’t been much risk. ISPs won’t disturb you at all.

Is VPN legal in France?

Yes, definitely. France is a democratic nation after all. Masking your IP for privacy purposes is completely legal. Although, it goes without saying that anything illegal isn’t permitted just because you’re using a VPN. So stay safe and use a VPN.

Which free VPN is best in France?

Before we recommend a tool, you should be aware of the drawbacks of a “free” VPN. Firstly, they are not secure. Most free VPNs end up failing to bypass restricted regions. While searching for a VPN, their logs policy should definitely be looked at.

Unfortunately, free-to-use VPNs rather capitalize on individual user data. Sending your information to third-party advertisers is a means of monetization for them. Worst of all, even the French government might access your data. However, if you’re on a tight budget and insist for one, we do recommend a VPN that is feasible – Windscribe.

Conclusion

As the trend of censorship increases, France is going through a change. The French Constitutional Council keeps revising cybersecurity laws every other week. It wasn’t always like this. France itself used to impose fines on Facebook for privacy breaches, however, recent years have taken a turn.

It’s best that you adapt to a VPN at the earliest. Hopefully, all these options will help you make a decision. Our top recommendation is based on industry standards, and we believe that Surfshark truly wins in all aspects.