14 January 2026 | Pure France
Best Regions in France for Holiday Rentals
France offers one of the widest and most varied selections of holiday rentals in Europe. From sunny countryside villas to dramatic coastlines and historic villages, choosing the right region is one of the most important decisions when planning a stay.
This guide highlights the best regions in France for holiday rentals, explaining what each offers, who it suits best and how regional choice shapes the overall holiday experience. It forms part of our broader overview of Holiday Properties in France: The Complete Guide, which explores property types, regions and practical planning considerations.
Expert insight from Pure France:
Why Region Choice Matters for Holiday Rentals in France
France’s regions differ significantly in terms of:
Climate
Landscape
Property style
Price levels
Pace and atmosphere
Choosing the right region helps ensure your holiday rental matches your expectations — whether that means space and privacy, easy beach access, family-friendly activities, or a quieter countryside setting.
Provence
Best for: Sunshine, scenery, culture and classic French charm.
Provence remains one of the most popular regions in France for holiday rentals, particularly for travellers seeking a timeless countryside experience.
Why choose Provence for a holiday rental:
Warm Mediterranean climate
Traditional stone villas and farmhouses
Vineyards, olive groves and hilltop villages
Excellent food markets and local cuisine
Provence offers a wide choice of countryside holiday rentals with private pools, making it ideal for relaxed, slow-paced villa holidays.
Dordogne
Best for: Families, space and excellent value.
The Dordogne is one of the most family-friendly regions in France for holiday rentals and is especially popular for longer stays.
Why choose the Dordogne:
Peaceful countryside and rivers
Castles, caves and outdoor activities
Spacious properties offering good value
Safe, relaxed atmosphere
It is particularly well suited to families and multi-generational groups who want space, flexibility and outdoor living.
Languedoc & Occitanie
Best for: Beaches, a relaxed pace and good value.
Languedoc & Occitanie offer a diverse mix of coastline, vineyards and countryside, with a slower, less crowded feel than some southern regions.
Why choose Languedoc & Occitanie:
Long sandy beaches
More relaxed atmosphere
Good-value holiday rentals
Family-friendly villages and resorts
This region is ideal for travellers seeking sunshine and space without a high-pressure pace.
Côte d’Azur
Best for: Coastal living, beaches and a vibrant summer atmosphere.
The Côte d’Azur is known for its Mediterranean coastline and high-end holiday rentals, particularly along the coast.
Why choose the Côte d’Azur:
Sea views and beach access
Elegant coastal towns
Luxury holiday rentals
Lively summer atmosphere
This region suits travellers who want coastal scenery combined with comfort and style.
Brittany & Normandy
Best for: Scenic coastlines, cooler summers and cultural depth.
Brittany and Normandy offer a very different holiday rental experience, shaped by dramatic coastlines and rich history.
Why choose Brittany & Normandy:
Wild coastlines and sandy beaches
Mild summer temperatures
Strong local culture and heritage
Excellent walking and outdoor activities
These regions are perfect for active holidays and travellers who enjoy traditional character and natural landscapes.
How to Choose the Best Region for Your Holiday Rental
When deciding where to stay in France, consider:
Who you’re travelling with (families, couples or groups)
Whether you prefer countryside or coast
Your ideal climate
Your budget and time of year
Your choice of region often goes hand in hand with the type of accommodation you prefer — from villas and countryside homes to larger group properties — as outlined in Types of Holiday Properties in France.
Why Use a Specialist for Regional Advice?
Choosing the right region can be as important as choosing the right property.
Working with a specialist like Pure France offers:
Honest, experience-based regional guidance
Carefully selected holiday rentals
Local knowledge of locations and travel styles
Support before and during your stay
This helps ensure the region you choose genuinely suits how you want to holiday.
Final Thoughts: Best Regions in France for Holiday Rentals
France’s regional diversity is one of its greatest strengths. Whether you’re drawn to Provence’s countryside, the Dordogne’s family-friendly charm, the beaches of Languedoc, the elegance of the Côte d’Azur or the dramatic coastlines of Brittany and Normandy, France offers outstanding options for holiday rentals.
Selecting the right region — and the right property — is the foundation of a successful and rewarding holiday. For a complete overview of regions, property types and travel styles, see Holiday Properties in France: The Complete Guide.
