Summer Holiday Rentals in France: What to Book Early?

Summer is the busiest and most popular time to rent a holiday home in France. Warm weather, school holidays and long daylight hours drive high demand, particularly in the most desirable regions. As a result, the best properties are often booked well in advance, making early planning essential for a successful summer holiday.

Understanding which types of holiday rentals book up fastest allows travellers to prioritise their search and secure the right property before availability becomes limited.

Why booking early matters for summer holidays in France

Summer demand is consistently higher than at any other time of year.

Key reasons include:

• School holidays significantly reduce date flexibility

• Popular regions and property types sell out quickly

• Well-located homes are limited in number

• Early booking provides the widest choice and better availability

For peak summer weeks, waiting often means compromising on location, size or features.

Villas with private pools

Villas with private pools are the most in-demand summer properties.

They book early because:

• Private pools are a top priority for families and groups

• Hot summer weather makes pool access especially desirable

• Availability is limited during peak holiday periods

These villas are often reserved many months ahead, particularly in July and August.

Large holiday homes for families and groups

Large holiday homes also book well in advance.

They are popular because:

• Larger properties are limited in supply

• Extended families and groups plan summer holidays early

• Sharing costs makes early booking more manageable

Once these properties are booked, suitable alternatives can be difficult to find.

Family-friendly locations

Certain locations are consistently popular for summer family holidays.

These typically include:

• Established regions such as Provence and the Dordogne

• Areas with easy access to activities, villages and attractions

• Properties offering outdoor space and flexibility

Homes in these locations tend to sell out early each summer.

Coastal and peak-season locations

Coastal areas experience the highest demand during summer.

Important factors include:

• July and August are peak months for seaside holidays

• Coastal properties have naturally limited availability

• Homes within easy reach of beaches book far in advance

As summer approaches, choice in coastal areas becomes increasingly restricted.

When should you book for summer?

There is no single deadline, but clear patterns emerge:

• Many travellers book several months ahead

• Early planning increases choice and reduces compromise

• Last-minute availability is limited during peak season

• Fixed school holiday weeks require the earliest booking

Booking early provides more control over location, size and key features.

Frequently asked questions

What is the busiest month for summer holidays in France? July and August are the busiest months, particularly during school holiday periods.

Are summer holiday rentals more expensive? Prices are generally higher in summer due to demand, especially for properties with private pools or in prime locations.

Can you find last-minute summer rentals? Occasionally, but choice is limited. Early booking offers the best selection and flexibility.

Final thoughts

Summer holiday rentals in France offer warmth, energy and memorable experiences, but they require forward planning. By booking early and focusing on the most in-demand property features, travellers can secure a holiday home that suits their needs and enjoy a more relaxed and rewarding summer stay.