13 January 2026 | Pure France
Holiday Properties in France: The Complete Guide
France is one of Europe’s most established and trusted destinations for holiday properties. From countryside villas and coastal homes to luxury estates and family-friendly houses, France offers exceptional choice, quality and value for self-catering holidays.
This complete guide explains the different types of holiday properties available in France, the best regions to stay, who France suits best and why it continues to be one of the most reliable destinations for self-catering holidays. For a detailed overview of accommodation options, see Types of Holiday Properties in France.
To explore where to stay and how different regions shape the holiday experience, see Best Regions in France for Holiday Rentals.
What Are Holiday Properties in France?
Holiday properties in France are privately owned homes available for short-term rental. They include:
Villas with private pools
Country houses and farmhouses
Coastal holiday homes
Luxury properties and large estates
Compared to hotels, holiday properties offer more space, privacy, and flexibility, making them ideal for families, groups, and longer stays.
Why Choose France for a Holiday Property?
France remains a leading destination for holiday rentals because it combines:
Regional diversity
High-quality accommodation
Family-friendly culture
Excellent infrastructure
Strong value for money
Few countries offer such a wide range of holiday experiences within a single destination.
Types of Holiday Properties in France
Holiday Villas in France
Villas are the most popular type of holiday property, particularly in southern regions.
Typically offering:
Private swimming pools
Gardens and terraces
Spacious living areas
They are ideal for families, groups, and those seeking privacy.
Family-Friendly Holiday Properties
Family-focused properties usually include:
Enclosed gardens
Child-safe pool options
Multiple bedrooms and bathrooms
Practical amenities
France is particularly well-suited to family villa holidays due to its relaxed attitude towards children.
Luxury Holiday Properties
Luxury holiday properties in France may feature:
Premium interiors and locations
Large private estates
Concierge or added services
Exceptional views or settings
Popular in Provence and on the Côte d’Azur.
Large Group Holiday Properties
Perfect for:
Multi-generational families
Groups of friends
Celebrations and special occasions
Sharing a large property often offers better value than multiple hotel rooms.
Best Regions in France for Holiday Properties
France’s regions each offer a distinct holiday style.
France’s regions each offer a distinct holiday style. For a detailed comparison of locations and who each region suits best, see Best Regions in France for Holiday Rentals.
Provence
Sunny climate
Vineyards, lavender fields, and villages
Traditional stone villas
One of the most sought-after villa regions in France.
Dordogne
Peaceful countryside
Rivers, castles, and markets
Excellent value for families
A favourite for relaxed and family-friendly holidays.
Languedoc & Occitanie
Long sandy beaches
Countryside and vineyards
Relaxed, less crowded atmosphere
Often better value than more famous coastal regions.
Côte d’Azur
Mediterranean coastline
Glamorous resorts and beaches
Luxury villas and sea views
Ideal for coastal and high-end villa holidays.
Brittany & Normandy
Dramatic coastlines
Cooler summer temperatures
Traditional French charm
Perfect for active, cultural, and scenic holidays.
Are Holiday Properties in France Good for Families?
Yes — France is consistently one of the most family-friendly destinations in Europe.
Holiday properties suit families because they offer:
Space for children to play
Flexible meal times
Safe and well-maintained environments
Easy access to activities and beaches
Many properties provide child-friendly features on request.
When Is the Best Time to Book Holiday Properties in France?
Peak Season
July and August
Warm weather and school holidays
Highest demand
Shoulder Season
May, June, September
Excellent weather
Fewer crowds and better value
Off-Season
Spring and autumn
Ideal for sightseeing and quieter stays
Early booking is recommended for popular regions and larger properties.
How Much Do Holiday Properties in France Cost?
Prices vary depending on:
Region
Property size
Time of year
Facilities such as private pools
In general, holiday properties in France offer:
Better value for families and groups
Competitive pricing compared to hotels
Excellent options in rural regions
Why Book Holiday Properties with a Specialist?
Booking with a specialist like Pure France provides:
Carefully selected properties
Deep regional knowledge
Honest advice on suitability
Support before and during your stay
Specialists focus on quality, location, and guest experience, not volume.
Are Holiday Properties Better Than Hotels?
For many travellers, yes.
Holiday properties offer:
More space and privacy
A more authentic local experience
Flexibility around meals and routines
Better value for longer stays
Hotels may suit short breaks, but holiday properties are ideal for relaxed, immersive holidays.
Final Thoughts: Choosing Holiday Properties in France
Holiday properties in France offer unmatched variety, quality and reliability. Whether you’re planning a family holiday, a countryside escape or a luxury villa stay, France continues to be one of Europe’s best destinations for self-catering accommodation.
Choosing the right region — and the right specialist — ensures a memorable and stress-free holiday.
