Introduction: France as Your Premier Holiday Home Destination in 2025

France has long captured the dreams of globetrotters and discerning investors alike. In 2025, the allure of purchasing a holiday home in this enchanting country is more compelling than ever. From the misty vineyards of Bordeaux to the sun-drenched shores of Provence, the diverse French regions beckon with captivating landscapes, rich culture, and an unrivaled art de vivre.

For buyers seeking an exquisite retreat, an investment opportunity, or both, understanding the top regions for holiday homes in France is essential. In this expertly crafted guide by IMMO ABROAD, we explore the top 10 French regions for buying a holiday home in 2025. Each profile dives deep into local markets, lifestyle offerings, property types, accessibility, and more, empowering you to make a confident and rewarding choice.

1. Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur: Timeless French Riviera Glamour

The Allure of Provence and the Côte d’Azur

From lavender-scented fields and medieval villages in the Luberon to the glitz of Cannes and Saint-Tropez, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur (PACA) is the jewel in the crown of French holiday home destinations. This region’s seductive blend of Mediterranean climate, world-famous cuisine, and pristine beaches creates irresistible appeal. In 2025, the demand for villas, apartments, and mas (traditional farmhouses) remains robust, attracting both seasoned investors and lifestyle buyers.

Property Types and Prices

Holiday home buyers in PACA can choose from secluded villas with infinity pools, charming stone village houses, to modern city apartments on the Promenade des Anglais in Nice. While Côte d’Azur hotspots command premium prices, attractive opportunities abound in less-traveled areas like the Var or Alpes-de-Haute-Provence. Prices can range from €250,000 for a petite rural home to multi-million euro sea-view estates.

Lifestyle and Attractions

Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur promises more than dazzling scenery:

• Internationally renowned festivals such as the Cannes Film Festival
• Gastronomic delights at Michelin-starred restaurants
• World-class beaches and sailing
• Picturesque markets filled with local produce and crafts

Whether sipping rosé at a village square or touring the Calanques, every day here is a sensory celebration.

Accessibility and Connections

The region is served by major international airports in Nice, Marseille, and Toulon, as well as high-speed TGV rail links, making travel seamless for international and domestic visitors alike.

2. Nouvelle-Aquitaine: Elegance and Surf on the Atlantic Coast

Bordeaux, Biarritz, and the Lands Between

Nouvelle-Aquitaine, France’s largest region, encompasses a kaleidoscope of landscapes and investment opportunities. The vibrant city of Bordeaux, the celebrated vineyards of Saint-Émilion, and the golden sands of Biarritz and Arcachon Bay anchor its appeal. The inland Dordogne is especially beloved among British and Dutch buyers for its timeless beauty and relaxed pace.

Property Market Overview

Buyers in Nouvelle-Aquitaine can:

• Discover stately country manors with acreages and vines
• Invest in stylish seaside apartments in Royan, Arcachon, or Anglet
• Restore rustic stone farmhouses in the picturesque Dordogne

Prices vary dramatically: chic Biarritz apartments start from €400,000, but countryside retreats can be found for less than €200,000 in inland pockets.

Lifestyle, Leisure & Natural Beauty

Nouvelle-Aquitaine offers:

• Wine tours and tastings in Bordeaux and Bergerac
• Gastronomy featuring oysters, duck, and regional cheeses
• World-class surfing and sailing on the Atlantic coast
• Endless cycling and walking in lush green valleys

The region’s pace is delightfully unhurried, yet cosmopolitan life is never far away.

Accessibility

Bordeaux, Biarritz, and La Rochelle offer international airports, while the TGV whisks travelers between Paris and Bordeaux in just two hours. Road networks connect coastal and inland locales with ease.

3. Occitanie: From Pyrenees Peaks to Mediterranean Shores

A Region Rich in Possibility

Occitanie, stretching from the peaks of the Pyrenees to the wild beaches of the Mediterranean, entices buyers seeking authenticity and diversity. Toulouse and Montpellier are lively urban hubs, while ancient villages like Uzès and Collioure provide a slower, sun-drenched pace.

The Property Landscape

A broad spectrum awaits:

• Elegant townhouses in Carcassonne and Albi
• Beachfront condos near Narbonne and Perpignan
• Charming stone bastides set among vineyards

With properties starting from around €150,000 inland and rising nearer the coast, Occitanie delivers remarkable value for holiday home seekers in 2025.

Cultural Riches and Lifestyle

Occitanie’s allure is rooted in its:

• Roman ruins and fortress towns
• Thriving weekly markets and artisan fairs
• Outdoor pursuits including skiing, canyoning, and sailing
• Distinctive, hearty regional cuisine

Year-round festivals and mild winters extend the holiday season, supporting robust rental yields for investors.

Getting There

Toulouse-Blagnac and Montpellier-Méditerranée airports support international access, while the region’s excellent highways and high-speed TGV lines streamline travel inland or to the coast.

4. Brittany (Bretagne): Captivating Coastlines and Celtic Charm

Why Buy in Brittany?

Brittany’s windswept cliffs, storybook towns, and vibrant maritime culture make it a perennial favorite. The region’s cooler climate attracts those seeking respite from southern heat, while its affordability and lively traditions foster a strong sense of belonging.

Types of Properties Available

Buyers can find:

• Thatched fisherman's cottages (chaumières) near Quimper
• Elegant stone manors along the Emerald Coast
• Modern apartments and townhouses in Rennes, Vannes, or Lorient

Brittany remains budget-friendly, with many homes available below €200,000 in rural districts—offering significant value.

Lifestyle Perks

Brittany is ideal for:

• Sailing and windsurfing enthusiasts
• Food lovers drawn by oysters, galettes, and artisanal cider
• Nature seekers enjoying unspoiled beaches and the Armorican Regional Park
• Cultural explorers enticed by festivals, megaliths, and fortified towns

The region’s distinct identity is an endless source of fascination.

Accessibility

Regular flights and ferry links connect Brittany to major European cities. Rail services and well-maintained roads facilitate leisurely excursions up and down the coast.

5. Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes: Alps Adventure and Urban Sophistication

From Lyon to the Highest Peaks

The Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, graced by Mont Blanc and the glitzy resorts of the Alps, is France’s ultimate destination for lovers of mountain living and urban culture. From the cultural metropolis of Lyon to picturesque Annecy and winter sports meccas like Chamonix and Megève, this region blends dynamic city life with breathtaking alpine tranquility.

Holiday Home Market Overview

Buyers may select from:

• Lakefront chalets in Annecy or Aix-les-Bains
• Ski-in, ski-out apartments and luxury lodges
• Urban pied-à-terre in Lyon’s historic districts

The range is wide, with apartments around €200,000 in smaller towns and luxury mountain chalets from €1 million in premier resorts.

Lifestyle, Sports, and Gastronomy

The region’s appeal spans all seasons:

• World-class skiing and snowboarding in the Trois Vallées, Les Arcs, and Chamonix
• Year-round hiking, cycling, and sailing on the lakes
• Lyon’s Michelin-starred restaurants and vibrant nightlife
• Rich artisanal traditions and weekly markets

Proximity to Geneva and Italy adds cosmopolitan sparkle and convenience.

Transport Connections

Lyon-Saint Exupéry and Geneva airports, high-speed TGV services, and excellent highways make travel in and out of Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes a breeze for holidaymakers and second-home owners.

6. Normandy (Normandie): Coastal Charm and Pastoral Peace

The Timeless Appeal of Normandy

Famed for its dramatic coastline, historic landmarks such as Mont-Saint-Michel and the D-Day beaches, and lush green countryside, Normandy offers an idyllic retreat within easy reach of Paris and northern Europe.

Property Market Highlights

Popular property choices include:

• Traditional Colombage (timber-framed) cottages
• Stone farmhouses with pastoral views
• Elegant maisons bourgeoises in seaside resorts like Deauville and Honfleur

Normandy’s property market remains reasonable, especially in inland areas; expect higher prices along the chic Côte Fleurie.

Lifestyle and Attractions

Normandy tantalizes with:

• Cider and camembert tastings direct from the producer
• Historic towns, gardens, and pilgrimage sites
• Equestrian culture—racing, breeding, and polo
• Sailing, beachcombing, and golf on the coast

Its gentle pace and welcoming communities are perfect for family holidays and year-round living.

Getting to Normandy

The region is accessible by car from Paris in under two hours, with frequent train services, regional airports, and ferries from the UK streamlining travel.

7. Pays de la Loire: France’s Undiscovered West

Why Consider Pays de la Loire?

This region, frequently overshadowed by better-known neighbors, is emerging as one of the best-value destinations for holiday home buyers in 2025. Anchored by Nantes, a city of innovation and art, Pays de la Loire encompasses the châteaux-rich Loire Valley and the sunny Atlantic coastline of Vendée and La Baule.

Types of Property

Potential buyers will find:

• Historic manor houses amid rolling vineyards
• Beachfront apartments and family homes on the coast
• Charming cottages and barn conversions inland

Homes start from under €175,000 in inland towns, with chic coastal real estate from €300,000 upward.

Lifestyle, Culture, and Exploration

The region is renowned for:

• The UNESCO-listed Châteaux of the Loire Valley
• Bike trails, boating, and family-centric beach resorts
• A thriving food scene—seafood, Muscadet wines, and local pastries
• Dynamic arts and music festivals in Nantes

Year-round appeal ensures consistent rental demand, especially during summer months.

Accessibility and Connections

Nantes Atlantique Airport offers direct flights to many European cities, while TGVs and autoroutes provide easy links to Paris and Brittany.

8. Languedoc-Roussillon (Part of Occitanie): A Sunlit Secret by the Sea

Discovering Languedoc’s Underrated Magic

This sun-drenched strip stretches from Montpellier and Nîmes to the Spanish border. Languedoc-Roussillon is famed for its unspoiled coast, medieval cities, and the flamenco flavors of its Catalan-influenced south. In 2025, the region’s exceptional value and stunning settings make it a magnet for buyers seeking authentic southern French living at accessible prices.

Property Options

Popular choices include:

• Medieval townhouses and apartments in Béziers, Uzès, and Pézenas
• Villas and beach homes near Gruissan, Valras-Plage, and Canet-en-Roussillon
• Rural mas and vineyard properties with grand potential

Homes here are typically more affordable than the neighboring PACA region, with many excellent opportunities below €250,000.

Lifestyle and Activities

Living in Languedoc is all about:

• Lively markets and bullfighting festivals
• Historical sightseeing—Roman arenas, Cathar castles, and ancient abbeys
• Canal du Midi boating, swimming, and windsurfing
• Cuisine blending French and Spanish influences

With over 300 days of sunshine per year, outdoor life thrives all year round.

Travel and Infrastructure

The region features international airports in Montpellier, Perpignan, and Nîmes. It also benefits from fast rail and excellent motorway links for effortless access to and from the rest of Europe.

9. Corsica (Corse): The Mediterranean’s Wild Isle

A World Apart

Corsica floats in the Mediterranean, a mountainous island famed for its crystalline beaches, granite peaks, and fiercely independent spirit. Its unique blend of French and Italian atmospheres create a compelling destination for holiday home buyers after something truly singular.

Property Scene

Corsica features:

• Modern seafront villas along the Ajaccio and Porto-Vecchio coasts
• Traditional village homes in the hills—character and seclusion guaranteed
• Prestige properties near Bonifacio or in hidden coves

While supply is tight and prices can be higher than the mainland—reflecting exclusivity—opportunities exist under €300,000 in lesser-known mountain villages.

Lifestyle and Natural Beauty

Corsica’s draws include:

• Dramatic hiking along the GR20, one of Europe’s finest trails
• Exceptional sailing, diving, and beach relaxation
• Hearty cuisine—charcuterie, wild boar, goat’s cheese, and chestnut desserts
• Lively festivals and proud local traditions

It is ideal for those seeking intimacy with nature and authentic Mediterranean culture.

Access to Corsica

Reaching “L’Île de Beauté” is straightforward via regular ferry and air links from Marseille, Nice, Paris, and direct routes from across Europe during the high season.

10. Burgundy (Bourgogne-Franche-Comté): Wine, Heritage, and Tranquillity

France’s Most Noble Heartland

Burgundy is the quintessential French dream for many buyers: a tapestry of gently rolling vineyards, slow-moving canals, and medieval towns set amid France’s green heart. With its deep-rooted gastronomic and viticultural traditions, Burgundy remains a destination for those seeking refinement and serenity.

Real Estate Landscape

Buyers enjoy access to:

• Prestigious stone mansions (maisons de maître) near Beaune and Dijon
• Village homes, restored barns, and converted watermills
• Canal-side houses and apartments for scenic views

Despite the region’s global renown, properties can be surprisingly affordable; many excellent options exist below €200,000, especially outside prestigious wine communes.

Lifestyle, Wine, and Gastronomy

Burgundy is a feast for the senses:

• Private tastings in legendary cellars and family-run domains
• Its world-beating cuisine and atmospheric restaurants
• Charming villages hosting medieval fairs, music, and cultural events
• Quiet canals for boating and cycling adventures

A refined but relaxed lifestyle makes Burgundy uniquely appealing for long holidays or extended stays.

Travel and Connectivity

Burgundy boasts swift high-speed rail links to Paris, Lyon, and beyond, as well as accessible road networks that put the rest of France conveniently within reach.

The Art of Choosing Your Dream French Holiday Home: Key Buying Factors

Understanding Your Investment Goals

The motivation behind acquiring a French holiday home can vary significantly:

• Personal Retreat: A sanctuary for family and friends
• Rental Income: Capitalizing on the thriving short-term rental market
• Long-Term Investment: Appreciation in value over time and a potential retirement base

Knowing your goals will guide your regional and property decisions.

Regional Affinity and Lifestyle Preferences

Every French region exudes its own character. Ask yourself:

• Do you thrive amid Provençal lavender, Alpine peaks, sun-baked Mediterranean scenes, or Atlantic surf?
• Are you looking for world-class restaurants, vineyard vistas, lively markets, or quiet countryside?
• Is year-round access essential, or will you focus on a specific season?

Matching the lifestyle of a region to your vision ensures lasting satisfaction.

Budget Considerations

Set clear parameters on:

• Purchase price and renovation costs
• Maintenance, insurance, and tax obligations
• Expected rental yields (if applicable)

Regions like Brittany and Burgundy offer affordable options, while Côte d’Azur and Corsica cater to premium buyers.

Evolving Trends in the French Holiday Home Market 2025

Shifting Buyer Priorities Post-Pandemic

The events of recent years have accelerated several property trends:

• Increased demand for countryside and waterfront homes outside major urban centers
• Appetite for properties with land, gardens, or terraces
• Interest in high-speed internet and dedicated remote workspaces

Buyers are also placing higher value on sustainability, energy efficiency, and proximity to nature, driving demand in rural, coastal, and mountain regions.

Supply and Demand Dynamics—2025 Outlook

While France enjoys a robust supply of second homes, the prime regions experience constrained availability. In PACA, Corsica, and the Alps, well-positioned homes are quickly snapped up by international and French buyers alike. Meanwhile, lesser-known but charming regions (such as Pays de la Loire and parts of Occitanie) still present opportunities for value and capital growth.

Rental Markets for Holiday Properties

The holiday rental market continues to flourish, particularly in regions with established seasonal tourism:

• Coastal areas attract summer beachgoers and fetch premium week rates during July and August
• Mountain resorts command high winter and spring prices for ski holidays
• Wine regions and historic towns offer year-round potential for culture-seekers and gastronomes

Rental regulations must be considered carefully for each commune, especially in tourist hotspots.

Navigating the French Property Purchase Process

Key Steps in the Buying Journey

Acquiring a holiday home in France involves a structured, transparent process. Working with dedicated guidance from IMMO ABROAD ensures every step is secure and informed.

1. Define your criteria: Location, property type, budget, and desired features.
2. Viewings and due diligence: Schedule site visits, review property history, and inspect conditions.
3. Sign a preliminary contract (Compromis de Vente): This reserves the property and triggers due diligence checks.
4. Cooling-off period: Typically 10 days to withdraw without penalty.
5. Legal verifications: Checks on title, planning, debts, and property boundaries by a notaire (independent legal officer).
6. Final contract and transfer: After approximately 2-3 months, the Acte de Vente is signed and ownership passes to the buyer.

Financing Options

French and international buyers can access a range of financing options:

• French mortgages, with fixed or variable rates
• Equity release on existing assets
• Cash purchases—common for competitive markets

Buyers are advised to arrange pre-approval and factor in additional costs (typically 7-10% of the purchase price) for legal and registration fees.

Taxation and Ownership Structures

France’s property tax system is transparent but involves several elements:

• Annual property tax (Taxe Foncière) and residence tax (Taxe d’Habitation; subject to residency status)
• Capital gains tax considerations for second homes
• Inheritance and gift tax planning—structuring ownership through an SCI (property-owning company) or joint purchase agreements

Consultation with qualified advisors ensures optimal tax planning tailored to your individual situation.

Making Your Dream a Reality: Working with IMMO ABROAD

Personalized Property Discovery

At IMMO ABROAD, we understand the art and science of matching buyers with their ideal French holiday homes. Our extensive local expertise ensures a curated property selection, whether you are searching for a Provençal villa, a Breton cottage, or a vineyard hideaway in Burgundy.

Local Insight and On-the-Ground Support

Our multilingual consultants offer:

• Insight into regional nuances and market conditions
• Access to exclusive and off-market listings
• Comprehensive on-site support during viewings
• Guidance on local rules, amenities, and community opportunities

Every step is handled with discretion, attention to detail, and an unwavering commitment to client satisfaction.

Full-Service Buying Experience

IMMO ABROAD assists with:

• Document translation and contract review
• Negotiations and due diligence coordination
• Assistance arranging finance and tax specialists
• Setting up utilities, maintenance, and property management

Our goal is to ensure your transition to French holiday home ownership is enjoyable, seamless, and secure.

Living the French Dream: Embracing Your New Lifestyle

Integrating into Local Communities

Owning a holiday home in France opens the door to vibrant local life. Successful integration is enhanced by:

• Learning some French—local classes are offered in most towns
• Participating in markets, village fetes, and association activities
• Supporting local producers and artisan businesses

Many regions boast welcoming expatriate networks, but the greatest rewards come from forging connections with French neighbors and traditions.

Enjoying Your Home Throughout the Year

France’s regional diversity ensures each season offers unique pleasures:

• Spring: Wildflowers and wine festivals
• Summer: Beach days, fireworks, and outdoor concerts
• Autumn: Harvest feasts and truffle hunting
• Winter: Skiing, Christmas markets, and cozy firesides

Your holiday home can evolve with your interests, hosting large family gatherings or peaceful solo retreats.

Savoring French Art de Vivre

French living is about savoring life’s gifts—fine food, outdoor beauty, and time with loved ones. Every region has its treasures, recipes, and festivities waiting to be discovered. Your investment is not only in bricks and mortar, but in memories and experiences that last a lifetime.

Future Outlook: The French Holiday Home Market Beyond 2025

Year-Round Demand and Value Resilience

France’s enduring appeal as a holiday home destination is underpinned by:

• Stable property laws and international buyer protections
• Consistent rental markets supported by robust tourism infrastructure
• Rich cultural and lifestyle offerings unaffected by fleeting trends

Modest but steady price appreciation is expected in the coming years, particularly in well-connected and picturesque regions.

Emerging Niches for Buyers

Buyers in 2025 and beyond are increasingly interested in:

• Eco-friendly homes with modern energy standards
• Remote-work ready properties with high-speed connectivity
• Vineyard, equestrian, and agritourism investments

The French market’s flexibility and diversity ensure that every buyer can find a niche perfectly suited to their dreams and aspirations.

Why 2025 Is the Perfect Year to Buy

Low interest rates, rising international mobility, and an expanding range of accessible locations make 2025 an opportune moment for holiday home investment in France. Regions are investing in infrastructure and customer service, ensuring today’s buyers access vibrant, welcoming communities for decades to come.

Conclusion: Writing Your Own French Chapter with IMMO ABROAD

Choosing a region for your French holiday home is a pursuit that requires both careful research and a sense of adventure. The “Top 10 Regio’s in Frankrijk voor het Kopen van een Vakantiehuis in 2025” reflect the unmatched diversity of landscapes, cultures, and lifestyles available to today’s buyers.

At IMMO ABROAD, we are honored to guide you on this journey—sharing our expertise, insider knowledge, and passion for the French art de vivre. Whether your heart yearns for Provençal sunshine, Breton tradition, or Burgundy’s wine country, we stand ready to deliver a seamless, tailored, and memorable buying experience.

Explore, discover, and realize your French dream—with all the assurance and inspiration provided by IMMO ABROAD. The next great chapter of your life begins in France.