For many people, the idea of purchasing a property in France has a special appeal. With its rich heritage, world-class cuisine, and laid-back lifestyle, France remains one of the most sought-after destinations for overseas buyers.
But with such a wide range of locations – from vibrant cities to peaceful countryside retreats – choosing the right spot can feel overwhelming. To help you get started, we’ve rounded up ten of the best places to consider when buying property in France.
We’ve also tried to give an idea of average prices for each region, but it’s worth noting that these vary significantly. For instance in Dordogne (a popular destination for British buyers) prices can range from €1,000/m² in rural areas to €4,000/m² in sought-after towns.
1. Paris
As the capital and cultural heart of France, Paris needs no introduction. From its iconic landmarks and world-famous museums to chic cafés and a dynamic rental market, Paris blends history and modernity like nowhere else.
In 2025, popular neighbourhoods like Le Marais, Montmartre, and Canal Saint-Martin continue to attract international buyers looking for charm and walkability, while areas like the 11th and 12th arrondissements offer better value and growth potential.
For investors, short-term lets can be lucrative – though increasingly regulated – while long-term rentals in well-connected areas remain in steady demand. Property prices average around €9,500 to €10,000/m², with luxury apartments in the 6th and 7th often exceeding €15,000/m².
2. Dordogne
For those seeking a slower pace of life, Dordogne in southwest France offers picturesque countryside, medieval towns, and riverside charm – all at a fraction of Paris prices.
Popular spots include Sarlat-la-Canéda, known for its golden-stone architecture and summer markets, and Bergerac, which has its own airport and strong British expat presence. Domme and Monpazier also attract second-home buyers for their postcard-perfect hilltop views.
With average prices around €2,200/m², buyers can find stone farmhouses, gîtes with land, or townhouses in walkable historic centres. It’s a favourite with retirees and buyers looking to run holiday rentals.
3. Brittany
In northwest France, Brittany offers rugged coastline, Celtic traditions, and a growing number of international homeowners who want seaside living without Côte d’Azur price tags.
Areas like Vannes, Dinan, and Quimper are known for their character, markets, and community feel. Saint-Malo and Carnac are prized for summer homes thanks to beaches and ferry access to the UK.
With prices averaging €2,100/m², property in Brittany is accessible and varied – from seafront apartments to granite cottages inland. Good train links and a mild climate make it attractive for both holiday use and full-time relocation.
4. Lyon
As France’s second city and culinary capital, Lyon offers a compelling mix of lifestyle and economic opportunity. Its UNESCO-listed old town, riverside walks, and access to the Alps make it appealing beyond just work.
Neighbourhoods like Croix-Rousse and Ainay are popular for charm and liveability, while Villeurbanne offers better affordability and rental yields. New build developments are expanding in areas like Confluence, adding to buyer choice.
Property prices in Lyon average €4,400/m² for apartments and €5,959/m² for houses (high but still far cheaper than Paris) with strong demand from students, families, and professionals contributing to steady growth.
5. Montpellier
This vibrant southern city blends Mediterranean flair with a youthful energy, thanks to its large student population and tech sector. Montpellier boasts a restored medieval core, palm-lined plazas, and easy access to beaches like Palavas-les-Flots and Sète.
Hotspots include Écusson (the Old Town), the modern Port Marianne district, and suburbs like Castelnau-le-Lez for families. It’s a great option for remote workers and second-home buyers who want sun and infrastructure without the Riviera premium.
Average prices sit around €3,950/m², offering strong value for a southern French city near the coast.
6. Nice
With its famous Promenade des Anglais, vibrant markets, and sunny microclimate, Nice is a perennial favourite for international buyers. It offers the cosmopolitan atmosphere of a major city with the beauty of the Mediterranean.
The Old Town (Vieux-Nice) is popular for short-term lets, while Cimiez and Mont Boron are top picks for quiet residential charm. Fabron and West Nice offer better value and newer developments.
Prices average €5,500/m², though sea-view apartments and villas command significantly more. Nice also offers strong potential for seasonal rental income, especially from summer tourism.
7. Bordeaux
Known for its wine but increasingly praised for its revitalised urban centre, Bordeaux has become a lifestyle and investment hub in western France.
The Chartrons district is trendy and family-friendly, while Saint-Michel draws younger buyers and creatives. Caudéran is sought after for larger homes with gardens. Its location between the Atlantic coast and wine country adds further appeal.
High-speed TGV service to Paris (two hours) makes it a feasible base for part-time residents or remote professionals. Property prices average €5,000/m² but vary widely by district.
8. Provence
Provence captures the imagination with its lavender fields, vineyards, and hilltop villages. Beyond the coast, inland Provence offers lifestyle appeal with more space and better value.
Sought-after areas include L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue for antiques and canal-side charm, Saint-Rémy-de-Provence for luxury and art lovers, and Aix-en-Provence for its culture and international schools.
Property options in Provence include everything from traditional stone mas farmhouses and renovated village homes to expansive vineyard estates. Prices vary widely depending on location, but generally align with southern France averages of €3,300-3,600/m². Prime towns (like those mentioned above) tend to sit at the higher end of that range.
9. The French Alps
The French Alps aren’t just for skiers. With year-round activities and stunning landscapes, this region appeals to adventure lovers and savvy investors alike.
Resorts like Les Gets, Morzine, and Chamonix are well-known for their rental markets and international communities. Annecy, with its lakeside charm, is also gaining popularity among buyers seeking a balance between mountain and city living.
Prices average around €9,000/m² in ski hotspots, but lower in less-touristed areas. Many buyers offset costs by renting chalets in winter and summer seasons.
10. The Loire Valley
For buyers looking for space, history, and value, the Loire Valley is a compelling option. Its landscape of vineyards, châteaux, and riverside towns offers a romantic backdrop for both holiday homes and year-round living.
Top towns include Amboise, Saumur, and Chinon, where buyers can find period townhouses, stone cottages, and even small estates at accessible prices.
With an average of €2,500/m², it’s a very affordable region by French standards, and its central location makes it easy to reach from Paris by train or car.
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