10 Popular Regions to Buy a Second Home in France

France, with its captivating landscapes, rich culture, exquisite cuisine, and charming villages, has long been a dream destination for those seeking a second home. Whether you're after the rolling lavender fields of Provence, the glittering coasts of the Côte d'Azur, the châteaux-dotted Loire Valley, or the tranquil swathes of Dordogne, France offers something uniquely alluring for every investor and lifestyle. This comprehensive guide will delve deep into the ten most popular regions in France to buy a second home, providing insight into their unique appeal, property markets, and the practicalities you need to consider.

1. Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur (PACA) – French Riviera & Beyond

The Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region, often shortened to PACA, is synonymous with glamour, sunshine, and culture. This region is split between the sun-soaked Mediterranean coast, famously called the Côte d’Azur, and the enchanting inland landscapes of Provence. For decades, celebrities, artists, and affluent international buyers have flocked to this region, enticed by its superb weather, world-class cuisine, and luxurious lifestyle.

Key Locations in PACA

• Nice: A bustling city with a famed seafront promenade and an international airport, making access easy for foreign residents.
• Cannes: Known for its annual film festival, golden sandy beaches, and luxury real estate.
• Saint-Tropez: The epitome of Riviera chic, with exclusive beach clubs and stunning sea-view villas.
• Aix-en-Provence: Famed for its historic charm, elegant architecture, and vibrant markets.
• Avignon: Rich in history, particularly Renaissance and Papal heritage.

Property Market Insights

Property prices on the Côte d’Azur are among the highest in France. Coastal homes, especially near the most famous towns, carry a premium but maintain excellent resale value due to enduring demand. Inland, Provence offers charming stone farmhouses, known as mas, and character-filled village homes often at lower prices than the coast. The region boasts a stable property market, driven by both domestic and international demand.

Lifestyle and Activities

The PACA region is perfect for those who cherish outdoor living. Whether it’s sailing on the Mediterranean, hiking in the Alpilles, or meandering through sunny vineyards, there’s no shortage of activities. Gourmets will relish the region's olive oil, truffles, and rosé wines. The fantastic climate enables al fresco living for much of the year, and the transport links make it feasible for weekend getaways or longer summer stays.

2. Nouvelle-Aquitaine – The Gem of Southwest France

France’s largest region, Nouvelle-Aquitaine, comprises a breathtaking variety of landscapes, from the sandy Atlantic beaches of the coastline to the sun-drenched vineyards around Bordeaux. This region is attractive to a wide range of second home buyers, thanks to its combination of cosmopolitan cities, unspoiled nature, and charming rural villages.

Key Locations in Nouvelle-Aquitaine

• Bordeaux: The city’s remarkable culinary reputation and vibrant cultural scene complement its status as the world’s wine capital.
• Biarritz: A historic surfing mecca with lively markets, stunning beaches, and a distinct Basque flavor.
• Dordogne (Périgord): Known for medieval villages, rivers, and an abundance of character stone houses.
• La Rochelle: Offers an inviting blend of marinas, beaches, and charming old town.
• Arcachon: Famous for its oyster beds, beautiful bay, and stylish Belle Epoque villas.

Property Market Trends

Nouvelle-Aquitaine’s property prices offer exceptional value compared with the French Riviera or Paris. Rural Dordogne has long been a favorite among British and Northern European buyers, with picturesque bastide towns and countryside escapes. Bordeaux’s resurgence as a cosmopolitan powerhouse drives demand for apartments. Coastal property, especially in Arcachon and Biarritz, commands higher prices due to its enduring popularity.

Lifestyle and Attractions

Life here is shaped by fine wine and food, relaxed coastal living, and spectacular natural scenery. From Bordeaux’s vineyards to surfing in Hossegor or exploring castles in the Dordogne, there’s something for all seasons. The region’s excellent transport links – high-speed TGV to Paris, several international airports – make it practical for second-homeowners.

3. Occitanie – Sunshine, Sea, and History

Occitanie occupies much of southern France, stretching from the Pyrénées to the Mediterranean. This region is increasingly fashionable among second home buyers who appreciate its blend of stunning beaches, vibrant cities, medieval heritage, and lower property prices relative to the Côte d’Azur.

Key Destinations in Occitanie

• Montpellier: A dynamic university city, close to Mediterranean beaches and brimming with culture.
• Carcassonne: Famed for its fortified medieval city, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Toulouse: France’s aerospace capital, offering a mix of heritage, innovation, and access to the Pyrénées.
• Perpignan: With a strong Catalan atmosphere and proximity to Spain and the coast.
• Nîmes: Boasts exceptional Roman monuments and a Mediterranean ambiance.

Property Market Overview

Occitanie is often selected by buyers looking for affordable real estate without sacrificing lifestyle. Coastal areas between Montpellier and Perpignan offer excellent value, with plentiful apartments and villas near the Mediterranean. The markets in Carcassonne, the Lot, and the Ariège remain buyer-friendly, with typical French maison de village and renovated farmhouses in abundance.

Lifestyle Highlights

The region enjoys over 300 days of sunshine a year. Outdoor pursuits range from sailing and surfing along the coast to hiking and skiing in the Pyrénées. Foodies enjoy fresh seafood, hearty cassoulet, and a wealth of local wines (including the robust reds of Minervois and Fitou). Occitanie’s vibrant markets and festivals provide a strong sense of local community.

4. Brittany (Bretagne) – Rugged Charm on the Celtic Coast

Brittany (French: Bretagne) forms the Celtic heartland of northwest France. Known for wild coastal scenery, picturesque towns, and a distinct culture, Brittany is popular among buyers searching for authentic French experiences and value-for-money homes.

Key Areas in Brittany

• Saint-Malo: A fortified city with dramatic ramparts and sandy beaches.
• Quimper: The cultural capital of Brittany, with charming old streets and stunning cathedrals.
• Vannes: Tucked beside the Gulf of Morbihan, known for its medieval center and beautiful harbor.
• Dinan: Famed for its fairy-tale medieval core and river views.
• Rennes: The region’s capital, blending youthful energy with traditional architecture.

Property Market Specifics

Brittany’s property prices are notably more accessible than the French Riviera or Paris. The region abounds in granite cottages, gracious townhouses, and farmhouses with considerable land. Coastal homes, especially near Saint-Malo or along the Pink Granite Coast, can command higher prices but are still competitive by national standards. Many homes in Brittany serve as idyllic seaside escapes with easy access from the UK via ferry and rail.

Lifestyle and Appeal

Brittany boasts a dramatic, varied coastline – ideal for sailing, coastal hiking, or simply enjoying wild Atlantic views. Its strong Celtic heritage creates a distinct cultural flavor, from music to festivals. Famous for its savory buckwheat crêpes, cider, and fresh seafood, the region delivers gastronomic pleasures. The mild climate, combined with the warmth of a close-knit community, makes Brittany an attractive option for buyers seeking tranquility and authenticity.

5. Île-de-France – Paris and Its Environs

Paris and the surrounding Île-de-France region offer a sophisticated option for those wanting a metropolitan pied-à-terre, grand apartment, or prestigious suburban home. The capital's advantages are obvious: world-class culture, vibrant nightlife, and world-renowned gastronomy.

Key Locales in Île-de-France

• Central Paris: From the bustling Marais to elegant Saint-Germain-des-Prés, and historic Île Saint-Louis, the range of apartments is unparalleled.
• Versailles: Offers baroque grandeur, elegant townhouses, and a relaxed pace within easy reach of the city.
• Fontainebleau: Known for its vast forest and remarkable château.
• Sain-Germain-en-Laye: Relished for its leafy boulevards and stylish living.
• Neuilly-sur-Seine: For those seeking opulent, family-friendly homes close to Parisian life.

Property Market Dynamics

Paris is home to one of the world’s most robust and resilient real estate markets, but also among the most expensive. Apartments in highly sought-after arrondissements maintain their value and are prized assets for investment and rental income. The city’s proximity to Charles de Gaulle and Orly airports is an added benefit for international buyers. Suburban towns, while still expensive, offer larger homes and gardens, ideal for those wanting space and prestige near the capital.

Lifestyle Highlights

From evenings at the opera or dining by the Seine to gallery visits and strolls through the Luxembourg Gardens, Parisian life epitomizes sophistication. The city’s excellent transport infrastructure makes it easy for second home owners to commute or visit for weekends, while the surrounding countryside of Île-de-France contains grand parks and tranquil riverside retreats.

6. Normandy (Normandie) – History, Beaches, and Bucolic Beauty

Normandy, in the north of France, is renowned for its green landscapes, imposing cliffs, long sandy beaches, and deep historical significance – from William the Conqueror to the D-Day landings of World War II. Its pleasant climate, pace of life, and proximity to Paris make it a natural second home destination.

Key Areas in Normandy

• Deauville: Known for its refined ambiance, historic casino, and glamorous events, including film and horse-racing festivals.
• Honfleur: An artistic harbor town with timber-framed houses and a lively marina.
• Bayeux: Famed for its medieval tapestry and attractive center.
• Caen: The regional capital full of history and vibrant markets.
• Etretat: Spectacular cliffs and beautiful seaside walks.

Property Market Profile

Normandy remains a favorite among Parisians seeking rural or seaside weekends, so demand is steady. The property palette includes elegant manor houses, rural longères (long farmhouses), and charming coastal cottages. Deauville’s market is more upscale, while the inland countryside provides good value. Many properties are within a two- to three-hour drive of Paris, making Normandy an exceptionally practical location.

Lifestyle Considerations

Normandy’s lush countryside is perfect for equestrian pursuits, cycling, or leisurely drives. The region offers unique culinary delights: Camembert, Calvados, and fresh seafood abound. Cultural heritage is omnipresent, from medieval abbeys to Impressionist art trails. The coast’s sandy expanses make for great family escapes even outside summer.

7. Loire Valley (Val de Loire) – Castles, Vineyards, and Riverscapes

The Loire Valley has earned UNESCO World Heritage status for its landscape of fairytale châteaux, undulating vineyards, and languorous rivers. Dubbed the "Garden of France," it’s a beacon for buyers desiring history, elegance, and bucolic tranquility.

Key Spots in the Loire Valley

• Amboise: Leonardo da Vinci’s final home, with views over the river and castles aplenty.
• Saumur: Known for wine, equestrian traditions, and a magnificent château.
• Chinon: Steeped in medieval history, surrounded by world-class vineyards.
• Blois: Gorgeous architecture and lively old town atmosphere.
• Touraine: The heart of the region with ample rural and village properties.

Property Market Deep Dive

The Loire Valley is notable for its gracious manor houses, maisons bourgeoises, and larger estates, often far more affordable than equivalents nearer Paris. Many classic French châteaux are found here, though maintenance can be intense for these larger properties. Smaller stone cottages and riverside homes provide idyllic escapes for buyers who want the romance of the French countryside.

Area Attractions and Lifestyle

Besides visiting famed châteaux and sampling fine Loire wines, the area abounds with markets, festivals, and culinary pleasures. River activities (rowing, cycling along the towpaths) are popular, and the region’s timeless landscapes offer constant inspiration. The Loire’s central location, plus TGV and Autoroute access to Paris, make it a convenient choice.

8. French Alps (Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes) – Year-Round Mountain Escapes

The French Alps, centered in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, are revered for some of the world’s most prestigious ski resorts and breathtaking mountain scenery. They also offer superb summer activities, making them excellent year-round second home destinations.

Top Locations in the French Alps

• Chamonix: The "capital of mountaineering," with a lively town center and legendary skiing.
• Annecy: Lovely lakeside city with medieval charm and water sports aplenty.
• Megève: An upmarket, elegant resort popular with Parisians and international buyers.
• Méribel & Courchevel: Situated within Les Trois Vallées, the world’s largest ski area, offering luxury chalets.
• Grenoble: A vibrant city nestled among the peaks.

Property Market Trends

Alpine property values remain strong, especially in and around the major ski resorts. Luxury chalets and apartments in top locations like Courchevel, Méribel, and Chamonix regularly see international interest, particularly from Swiss, British, and Northern European buyers. Smaller resorts and the lower-Valley villages provide more affordable alpine escapes while affording access to world-class skiing.

Lifestyle and Activities

Winter in the Alps revolves around skiing, snowboarding, and après-ski. The rest of the year brings hiking, paragliding, golfing, lake swimming, and cycling. Local cuisine is robust and comforting, with dishes like fondue, tartiflette, and charcuterie perfectly suited to mountain air. For lovers of the outdoors and dramatic scenery, no place compares.

9. Languedoc – Mediterranean Sun Meets Medieval Wonder

Languedoc (now largely part of Occitanie) stretches along the Mediterranean from the Rhône to the Spanish border. Less overrun than Provence or the Côte d’Azur, Languedoc is celebrated for affordable property, sun-drenched beaches, ancient towns, and vineyards galore.

Key Areas in Languedoc

• Pézenas: A former royal town with vibrant markets and architecture.
• Montpellier: A booming cultural and university center.
• Narbonne: Known for Roman ruins, lively food halls, and Mediterranean access.
• Béziers: Strong Spanish heritage, historic canal, and good-value property.
• Uzès: Medieval charm and a thriving expat community.

Market Insight

Languedoc’s real estate market is one of France’s most welcoming for foreign buyers. Prices are generally lower than those on the Riviera, but you can still find classic mas, village houses with shutters, and even vineyard properties. Proximity to both sea and mountains is a further draw, and the region benefits from numerous airports (Montpellier, Béziers, Carcassonne, Perpignan) serving budget airlines.

Lifestyle and Attractions

The Mediterranean coast features long, sandy beaches, while inland areas—dotted with Roman ruins, fortresses, and vineyards—offer tranquility and beauty. The local wine industry is booming, reflected in bustling markets and wine bars. Languedoc suits those seeking sun, history, and a distinctly French Mediterranean pace.

10. Corsica (La Corse) – The Enchanting Island of Beauty

Corsica, known as the Ile de Beauté, is an island where French and Italian cultures intermingle amidst dramatic mountain backdrops and turquoise seas. Though slightly further afield, it holds irresistible allure for discerning buyers searching for privacy and wild beauty.

Key Places in Corsica

• Ajaccio: The island's capital and birthplace of Napoleon Bonaparte with a stately old town and lively marina.
• Bastia: A port city with authentic Corsican culture and an atmospheric old quarter.
• Porto-Vecchio: Famed for glamorous beaches and a chic summer scene.
• Calvi: Offers a mix of citadel history, clear waters, and vibrant nightlife.
• Corte: Situated inland, a stronghold of Corsican culture surrounded by mountain hiking trails.

Island Property Market

Corsica’s relative seclusion keeps the property market exclusive. Most opportunities are found among modern villas, heritage townhouses, or rural stone houses. Coastal homes, especially in Porto-Vecchio and Calvi, command high prices due to limited supply and exceptional views. The island’s market is less developed than the Riviera, but its authenticity, natural beauty, and privacy make it a prime choice.

Lifestyle and Charm

Corsican life revolves around the outdoors—days spent hiking the GR20 trail or relaxing on unspoiled beaches, evenings relishing fresh seafood, wild boar, and local cheeses. The pace is slower; the culture fiercely proud. Buying in Corsica offers a retreat from the mainland crowds and a taste of Mediterranean paradise.

Comparing the Top 10 French Regions for Second Homes

Choosing the right region is a personal affair, dependent on your lifestyle, investment goals, and transport preferences. Below, we further break down critical considerations:

Climate and Geography

• Provence, PACA, and Languedoc promise Mediterranean heat, olive groves, and lavender.
• Brittany and Normandy are milder but delightfully green, great for year-round living.
• The Alps and Corsica offer mountain landscapes for winter sports or wilderness retreats.
• Nouvelle-Aquitaine and the Loire offer beautiful riverscapes and gentle seasons.

Accessibility

• Île-de-France, Normandy, and Châteaux Country are closest to Paris and the Channel.
• PACA, Nouvelle-Aquitaine, and Languedoc are well-connected via international airports.
• Corsica is a flight or ferry away, ensuring tranquility and exclusivity.

Budget and Value

• PACA and Paris command the highest prices.
• Brittany, Normandy, Languedoc, and some inland areas represent the best value and the ability to buy larger properties for lower budgets.
• Alps and Corsica, though sometimes pricey, offer strong rental yields in season.

Cultural Appeal

• Paris, Bordeaux, Avignon, Montpellier: For vibrant city life and the arts.
• Provence, Loire, Normandy: For village markets, festivals, and deep traditions.
• Corsica: For a unique, proud, mixed Franco-Italian heritage.

Buying a Second Home in France: Practical Considerations

France is one of the most desirable countries in Europe to buy property, but purchasing a second home here—especially as a non-resident—requires planning and understanding of the local process. Here are essential steps and tips for aspiring buyers:

Legal Process and Notaries

• Compromise de vente: Once you find a property and agree on a price, you sign a preliminary contract committing the seller to sell to you and you to buy, pending completion conditions (clauses suspensives).
• Cooling-off period: Buyers have ten days to withdraw without penalty.
• Notary’s Role: A notaire is a government-appointed legal official who ensures the transfer is legally compliant and oversees all searches. The notary collects taxes and fees (7–8% of the price for existing homes).
• Final signing: The acte de vente (final deed) is signed at the notary’s office, after which keys and ownership pass to the buyer.

Financing and Currency

• If you are not a French resident, you can obtain a mortgage from a French bank, typically up to 70–80% LTV, subject to international buyer criteria.
• Cash purchases are common, but buyers should be aware of currency fluctuations (consider a forward contract or currency specialist).

Taxation and Running Costs

• Local taxes: Owners pay annual taxes: taxe foncière (land tax) and taxe d’habitation (based on occupancy).
• Income tax: Rental income from the property must be declared in France and possibly your home country.
• Utilities & Maintenance: Factor in utilities, repairs, service contracts, refuse collection, and for larger properties, garden or pool maintenance.

Residency and Lettings

• EU Citizens: Can freely acquire and use property as a second home.
• Non-EU Citizens: May require visas for stays beyond 90 days but face no restrictions on ownership.
• Short-term letting: In Paris and some tourist hot-spots, strict rules now limit or regulate Airbnb-style rentals.

Working with Agents

• Use reputable, licensed French agences immobilières (agents) for your search. Fees are typically paid by the seller and displayed as Frais d’Agence Inclus (FAI) in property ads.
• International agencies and relocation specialists can assist with translation, negotiation, and post-sale support.

Renovating in France

• Many buyers opt for renovation projects. While potentially rewarding, these require permits (Permis de Construire or Déclaration Préalable), diligence, and patience.
• France’s robust building trades and skilled artisans ensure quality, though rural projects may face delays.

Tips for Successful Second Home Ownership in France

1. Visit Several Times: Visit potential areas in both summer and winter to get a true sense of the climate and atmosphere year-round.
2. Assess Travel Links: Consider ease of access—are there direct flights or TGVs from your home base?
3. Community and Integration: Seek regions and villages with thriving year-round communities, especially if you want to spend more than just summers in France.
4. Research Local Services: Health care, shops, repair services, language classes—these are vital for your comfort and well-being.
5. Rental Potential: If letting is part of your financial strategy, choose locations with proven tourist or business demand.
6. Long-term Perspective: Think ahead: will the home suit your needs as you age, and is it easy to maintain or resell?
7. Financial Planning: Work with advisors to consider tax implications at home and in France, especially regarding inheritance or renting out your property.
8. Get to Know the Locals: Embracing local life ensures a richer experience and valuable friendships—try learning some French, frequent the markets, and participate in community events.
9. Think Utility: Assess whether the property is suitable for all-year use: heating, insulation, pool covers, and good Wi-Fi matter just as much as the view.
10. Plan for Management: If you’ll be away for much of the year, arrange for key-holding, cleaning, and maintenance, or use a local property manager.

Conclusion: Finding Your French Second Home Paradise

France’s diversity ensures there’s a region to captivate every second-home buyer, whether you’re enamored of bustling Paris, the lavender-tinged air of Provence, windswept Breton coasts, the green valleys of Dordogne, or the snowy heights of the Alps. Each region profiled above not only promises unique beauty and lifestyle but presents its own advantages for buyers—be that value for money, vibrant cultural life, or easy accessibility.

The French property market, renowned for stability and enduring international appeal, remains a sound choice for both lifestyle seekers and investors. However, as with all real estate ventures, success comes from thorough research, prudent planning, and a true appreciation of the local lifestyle. With the detailed regional knowledge and practical guidance provided in this guide, you’re well equipped to start your property search and soon enjoy la belle vie in your very own French retreat.

Whether basking on the Riviera, sipping wine in Bordeaux, or exploring the ramparts of Carcassonne, owning a second home in France is the start of a life filled with adventure, culture, and unforgettable moments. Bonne chance!