A regional guide for UK buyers

France remains one of the most popular destinations for UK buyers looking to buy property in France. Its appeal lies in lifestyle, accessibility and the diversity of regions on offer. From vibrant cities and historic towns to vineyards, mountains and coastlines, France provides options for nearly every buyer profile and budget.

With direct rail links and short flights from the UK, reaching Paris, Lille, Bordeaux, Nice, or Toulouse is straightforward. Some buyers are drawn to cities for work and infrastructure, while others seek space, tranquillity and a slower pace of life. Choosing the right region is key when buying a house in France, whether for personal use, a holiday home or as an investment property.

The French Alps: four seasons of opportunity

The Alps offer dramatic scenery with snow-covered peaks, alpine lakes and traditional mountain towns. Winter skiing transitions to summer hiking, cycling and lakeside leisure, making it a true four-season region.

Resorts such as Chamonix, Annecy and Megève combine charm with modern amenities and strong communities, appealing to buyers seeking lifestyle or rental potential. Properties in Haute Savoie sit at the higher end of the market, particularly in prime resorts, reflecting strong demand. While winter weather and remote locations may require consideration, the lifestyle and long-term investment potential are significant advantages.

Brittany: coastal living with character

Brittany combines rugged Atlantic coastline, historic towns and peaceful countryside. Inland homes are particularly affordable, while coastal properties remain competitive. The slower pace of life, rich culture and strong transport links make Brittany attractive for UK buyers looking to purchase property for holidays or permanent relocation. Summers are warm, the region rarely feels overcrowded and the climate is comfortable year-round.

Burgundy: vineyards, cuisine and rural calm

Burgundy offers rolling hills, vineyards and medieval villages. Dijon provides a compact cultural hub, while surrounding towns deliver classic French charm. Property here is affordable, often featuring traditional elements like stone walls, timber beams, or wine cellars. High-speed rail to Paris makes the region accessible for city visits, while the rural setting appeals to those prioritising tranquillity and lifestyle over urban bustle. Renovation projects can add value and character to homes.

Côte d’Azur: Mediterranean prestige

The French Riviera is iconic for Mediterranean living. Nice, Cannes and Saint-Tropez offer coastal glamour, while hilltop villages inland provide quieter alternatives. High property prices reflect strong demand, particularly for apartments with sea views or prime locations. Year-round sunshine, cultural amenities and excellent transport links make the region appealing for lifestyle buyers and investors seeking rental income. Inland options provide space and privacy, though prices remain above the national average.

Loire Valley: historical living near Paris

The Loire Valley is celebrated for its châteaux, vineyards and historic towns. Warm summers and mild winters support year-round living. Buyers are drawn to traditional stone cottages or townhouses in picturesque villages, while Tours and Angers provide urban amenities. The high-speed train to Paris makes commuting feasible, combining tranquility with convenient city access.

Northern France and Picardy: value and accessibility

Northern France, including Picardy and Hauts-de-France, offers affordable property across diverse landscapes, from beaches and cliffs to fertile farmland. Lille provides a cultural and educational hub, while transport links like Eurostar and ferry routes make travel to the UK easy. Stone cottages and farmhouses offer generous space at competitive prices, appealing to buyers seeking value.

Languedoc-Roussillon: mediterranean living without the premium

Languedoc-Roussillon provides a Provence-style lifestyle at a more accessible price. Vineyards, historic towns and Mediterranean climate make it appealing for buyers seeking sun, space and charm. Montpellier and Nîmes offer cultural energy, while rural villages cater to a quieter pace of life. Flights are typically required to reach the UK, but the region’s affordability and lifestyle potential make it a compelling choice.

Paris and rural options: urban prestige vs. countryside

Paris is a global city offering iconic culture, dining and investment potential. Apartments in central districts are expensive but retain value and rental appeal. Life is fast-paced with limited space, suited to buyers prioritising urban living.

In contrast, regions like the Massif Central or the Pyrenees provide rural scenery, outdoor pursuits and affordable property. These areas attract buyers seeking tranquillity and lifestyle over proximity to major cities, though local amenities and transport links are more limited.

Managing your buying process in France

Buying property in France involves a different process to the UK, from making an offer through to completion. Understanding these steps in advance can help buyers feel more confident and avoid unnecessary delays. For a clear overview of what to expect, including key stages and practical considerations, UK buyers can refer to our France buying guide.

 

FAQ: buying property in France

Is it easy for UK citizens to buy property in France?

Yes. There are no residency requirements for overseas buyers and UK citizens can purchase property freely. Legal support from a notaire is recommended.

Which regions are most affordable?

Northern France, Burgundy, Massif Central and the Pyrenees offer some of the lowest property prices, while southern regions and the Riviera command higher premiums.

Do I need to be in France to buy a house?

No. Many transactions can be managed remotely, though visits are recommended to assess the property and local amenities.

How can I protect my budget from currency fluctuations?

Forward contracts and rate monitoring tools can help protect your budget from currency fluctuations by locking in favourable exchange rates and providing greater certainty over future costs.

 

Written by Lumon for Rightmove

This publication is provided for general information purposes and does not constitute legal, tax or other professional advice from Lumon or its subsidiaries, and it is not intended as a substitute for obtaining advice from the relevant professional services. We make no representations, warranties or guarantees, whether expressed or implied, that the content in the publication is accurate, complete or up to date.