The Best 10 Airbnb Markets in France for Investment

France is one of the oldest nations in the world and the most ethnically diverse country located in Western Europe. France is a significant economic force that stands tall among other nations like Italy, the USA, the UK, and Germany. According to the International Trade Administration, France currently holds the seventh position as the world's largest economy and is Europe's third-largest economy. The capital of France is Paris, which is also its largest city and a major centre of art, culture, and fashion. France has some of the world's most iconic landmarks, exquisite art and architecture, sensational cuisine, breathtaking beaches, luxurious ski resorts, beautiful countryside, and a staggering amount of history to entice visitors of all ages.

According to AlltheRooms, France is home to about 1,209,036 Airbnb listings on average in 2021. France is Airbnb's largest market outside of the U.S., offering villas in Provence and the Riviera to apartments on the Champs-Elysees. France had the second most Airbnb nights in 2021 and 2020, with 43.0 million and 27.9 million, respectively.

Why Invest in Airbnb in France?

The appeal of Airbnb in France is based on a number of factors. First and foremost, France is one of the most visited countries in the world, and short-term rentals are in high demand. Furthermore, the French government has introduced several regulations in recent years to support and promote the growth of the sharing economy, including short-term rentals. In addition, with the rise of remote work, many people are now staying in short-term rental properties for longer periods of time, which increases the potential profitability of Airbnb rentals in France. The diversity of France's regions and cities ensures that short-term rentals are in demand throughout the year, making it an attractive investment opportunity.

Growing Tourism Industry

France is one of the top tourist destinations in the world, attracting millions of visitors each year. France welcomed 66.6 million international visitors in 2022, and between 2022 and 2025, GlobalData predicts that the number of international arrivals in France will increase by 12.1% annually. This growing demand for tourism creates a growing demand and opportunity for short-term rental properties.

High Rental Yields

France is known for having high rental yields, especially in cities like Paris, which are popular tourist destinations. This means that investing in short-term rentals can provide a good return on investment.

Stable Economy

France has a stable economy, with a strong infrastructure, making it a safe investment opportunity for those looking for long-term investments.

Cultural and Historical Appeal

France is renowned for its rich cultural heritage and historical landmarks, which attracts millions of tourists each year. This makes short-term rentals in cities like Paris, Marseille, and Lyon, a good investment opportunity.

Government Support

The French government has implemented several policies to encourage investment in the tourism industry, including tax incentives and subsidies for property owners who rent out their properties for short-term stays.

Tourism In France

Placed among the world's most popular tourist destinations, France attracts approximately 30 million visitors annually. Tourism is a major industry in France and plays a major role in the country's economy. According to Statista, The travel and tourism industry contributed to the French Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in total with approximately 211 billion euros in 2019. Tourism's GDP share in France is forecast to increase by 2.4 percentage points between 2022 and 2028, reaching 8.72% in 2028.

The country's tourism caters to a wide range of demographics across the globe with epic country landscapes, beautiful beaches, mountains, countryside, and big cities, France has it all and therefore offers all kinds of tourism.

It also explains why many French people choose their country for their vacations. France remains a country still one of the top tourism destinations in the world, and Airbnb is one of the largest in the country. The platform has become a way for French residents to make extra income, and the country has a high demand for Airbnb rentals for that reason.

France is the second most visited country in the world after the United States. Demand for rentals is driven by the large number of expatriates working in the country and by the demand for short-term rentals for tourists and business travellers.

The Best Cities in France to Host an Airbnb Short-Term Rental

Paris

Paris, famous for being the fashion capital, is also known as the City of Lights. These monikers do not reveal the entirety of Paris. A number of famous attractions in Paris make it one of the most visited destinations in the world. The Louvre Museum, Notre-Dame Cathedral, Champs Elysées, and Arc of Triumph make Paris an iconic city. In addition to the Palace of Versailles, Luxembourg Park, and the renowned Eiffel Tower, the city is also known for its high-quality gastronomy and cafe terraces.

Paris had the most listings for short-term rentals, making it the most popular market in the country. Paris welcomed roughly 38 million visitors in 2019 and it is estimated that 33 million people visited Paris in 2022.

According to Statista, the number of Airbnb listings in Paris, France, totaled nearly 57 thousand as of June 2022. The largest number of listings in the city were for entire homes and apartments.

With millions of tourists visiting Paris every year, the city has seen an increase in demand for short-term rentals, particularly during peak tourist season. Short-term rentals are popular in Paris because of their convenience, affordability, and prime location. Due to their central location and historic charm, Short term rentals are particularly popular in the Latin Quarter, Saint-Germain-des-Prés, and the Marais.

In Paris, however, short-term rentals have raised concerns about the impact on the housing market and the availability of affordable housing. To ensure that short-term rental properties meet certain standards and requirements, the city government has put in place regulations.

As of February 2023, the AirDNA market minder estimates the following:

Average Daily Rate €157 Occupancy Rate 86% Revenue €2,427 Active rentals 27,705

According to RealAdvisor, the median price for houses on the market is €1,480,000 as of February 2023.

Lyon

A city at the confluence of the rivers Rhône and Saône, Lyon is located in east-central France. The city ranks third after Paris and Marseille. Lyon is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that has historical and architectural landmarks and is historically known for silk production and weaving and has developed a reputation as a gastronomy capital. The Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière and the traboules of Vieux Lyon are among the city's most beautiful sights.

The city is also a hub for business, education, and culture, attracting a diverse range of visitors throughout the year. As a result, there is a strong demand for short-term rentals in Lyon, particularly during the peak tourist season from May to September. The most popular areas for short-term rentals in Lyon are the Presqu'île, Croix Rousse, and Vieux Lyon. Lyon is also home to several large events throughout the year, including the Festival of Lights, which attracts millions of visitors annually.

As of February 2023, the AirDNA market minder estimates the following:

Average Daily Rate €96 Occupancy Rate 75% Revenue €1,510 Active rentals 4,623

According to RealAdvisor, the median price for houses on the market is €728,000 as of February 2023.

Cannes

Located on the Mediterranean coast of France, Cannes is a world-renowned city that owes its fame to its iconic Croisette promenade and the star-studded red-carpet events it hosts. In addition to its glamorous image, Cannes boasts several other attractions that make it a highly sought-after destination.

Cannes is renowned for its picturesque beaches, opulent accommodations, and the annual film festival, which draws international celebrities and film industry professionals every May. Moreover, the city is a popular yachting destination, with some of Europe's largest marinas located here.

Given its many attractions and global reputation, Cannes sees a high volume of visitors throughout the year, resulting in a significant demand for short-term rental homes.

The most popular places to rent short-term homes in Cannes are the Croisette, the city's famous promenade, and the neighbourhood of Le Suquet, Palm Beach, and La Bocca. Tourists enjoy these areas because they are close to the beach, shopping areas, and restaurants.

As of February 2023, the AirDNA market minder estimates the following:

Average Daily Rate €156 Occupancy Rate 42% Revenue €1,429 Active rentals 7,344

According to RealAdvisor, the median price for houses on the market is €2,090,000 as of February 2023.

Marseille

Located on the southern Mediterranean coast, Marseille is France's second-largest city. Marseille's temperate climate and distinction as the sunniest major city in the country make it a sought-after destination for travelers all year round. Marseille is also a hub of transportation, with a major port and an international airport, making it a popular gateway to the rest of France and Europe.

One of the prettiest neighborhoods in France is Marseille's colorful Old Town. The city's oldest part is on a hillside and is packed with boutiques, charming cafes and bars, and galleries. The city of Marseille is renowned for its spectacular cathedrals, particularly Notre-Dame de la Garde, also known as la Bonne Mère by locals. It is a Catholic basilica and the city's most famous symbol.

Marseille's rich cultural heritage, beautiful scenery, and vibrant atmosphere attract millions of tourists each year. Marseille has a strong short-term rental market during the tourist season, especially from May to September. Vieux-Nice, Le Panier, and the Old Port are particularly popular areas that are all close to the city's top attractions, restaurants, and nightlife.

As of February 2023, the AirDNA market minder estimates the following:

Average Daily Rate € 91 Occupancy Rate 67% Revenue € 1230 Active rentals 7498

According to RealAdvisor, the median price for houses on the market is €498,000 as of February 2023.

Bordeaux

Bordeaux, the hub of the famed Bordeaux wine region, is a port city on the Garonne River in southwestern France. The city is known for its Gothic cathedral, magnificent mansions from the 18th and 19th centuries, and a number of famous art museums.

In addition to its world-famous wine, Bordeaux is a beautiful city with breathtaking architecture and easy access to the nearby French countryside. Between May and November is undoubtedly the best season to explore Bordeaux's vineyards or go walking and exploring the city. Travelers also throng to this city to enjoy the glorious coastline and experience the pristine beaches.

Bordeaux's stunning architecture, abundant cultural heritage, and globally acclaimed wine industry make it a favored tourist destination, resulting in a high demand for short-term rentals, particularly during the tourist season. The most sought-after areas for short-term rentals in Bordeaux are the "Golden Triangle" historic center, as well as the surrounding neighborhoods of Saint-Michel, Saint-Pierre, and Chartrons.

As of February 2023, the AirDNA market minder estimates the following:

Average Daily Rate € 113 Occupancy Rate 76% Revenue € 1722 Active rentals 2,937

According to RealAdvisor, the median price for houses on the market is € 645,000 as of February 2023.

Menton

The picturesque town of Menton is located on the French Riviera, close to the Italian border. Its beautiful beaches, colourful old town, and mild climate earned it the nickname "the Pearl of France." Menton is also famous for its lemon festival, which takes place every year in February and attracts thousands of visitors. Additionally, the town is home to several historical landmarks, including the Saint-Michel-Archange Basilica, the old port, and the Jean Cocteau Museum. As a result of its rich cultural heritage, Menton's architecture, cuisine, and traditions are influenced by both French and Italian influences. The town's mild climate and stunning scenery make it a popular destination for tourists seeking a relaxing and sunny getaway. A popular tourist destination along the French Riviera, Menton is especially popular in the summer. Both domestic and international tourists flock to the city for its beaches, mild climate, and picturesque Old Town.

As of February 2023, the AirDNA market minder estimates the following:

Average Daily Rate €105 Occupancy Rate 64% Revenue €1289 Active rentals 1,068

According to RealAdvisor, the median price for houses on the market is € 670,000 as of February 2023.

Nice

Nice is a city in southeastern France situated on the French Riviera. Known for its beautiful beaches, stunning architecture, and vibrant cultural scene, it is the 5th largest city in France. A beautiful Mediterranean climate and stunning coastline make Nice a popular tourist destination. It boasts several beaches, including the famous Promenade des Anglais, which runs along the coast. Several museums and art galleries are also located in the city, including the Musée Matisse, the Musée d'Art Moderne et d'Art Contemporain, and the Palais Lascaris. The Old Town of Nice is another popular destination for visitors, with its narrow winding streets, historic buildings, and bustling markets.

Short-term rentals in Nice have been popular, especially during the summer months when tourists flock to the city. Nice is France’s leading tourist city after Paris and welcomes over 5 million tourists annually.

In Nice, short-term rental homes are most prevalent in the Old Town (Vieux Nice), the Promenade des Anglais, and the surrounding neighborhoods of Mont Boron, Cimiez, and Cap de Nice. Tourists are attracted to these areas due to their proximity to the beach, restaurants, and shopping areas.

As of February 2023, the AirDNA market minder estimates the following:

Average Daily Rate €113 Occupancy Rate 80% Revenue €1,631 Active rentals 5,685

According to RealAdvisor, the median price for houses on the market is € 976,500 as of February 2023.

Saint-Tropez

A small coastal town in the south of France, Saint-Tropez is known for its picturesque beaches, luxury yachts, and glamorous lifestyle. Saint-Tropez is still a popular destination for luxury tourism, with many high-end hotels, restaurants, and designer boutiques. Saint-Tropez has several cultural attractions, such as the Musée de l'Annonciade, a museum of modern art, and Chapelle Sainte-Anne.

Saint-Tropez is a popular destination for luxury tourism, and as a result, there is a high demand for short-term rentals, particularly during the summer months when visitors flock to the town.

With many properties boasting private swimming pools, gardens, and stunning views, Saint-Tropez's short-term rental market caters to high-end clients. The luxury tourism industry and exclusive nature of Saint-Tropez make short-term rentals quite expensive. Saint-Tropez is a popular destination for affluent tourists looking for a luxurious and private vacation, and short-term rentals are in high demand.

As of February 2023, the AirDNA market minder estimates the following:

Average Daily Rate € 286 Occupancy Rate 54% Revenue € 3,225 Active rentals 684

According to RealAdvisor, the median price for houses on the market is € 6,400,000 as of February 2023.

Toulouse

Located in the southwest of France, Toulouse is renowned for its fascinating history, lively cultural scene, and stunning architecture. It is often referred to as the "Pink City" due to its distinctive pinkish brick buildings. Toulouse boasts several historic landmarks and attractions, including the Capitole de Toulouse, the city's town hall, and the Basilica of Saint-Sernin, one of UNESCO's World Heritage Sites. In addition to museums, art galleries, and theatres, Toulouse also offers outdoor activities, such as boating and cycling along the Garonne River and Canal du Midi.

Toulouse offers a great deal of potential to invest in short-term rentals, with its growing tourism industry and diverse range of visitors. Tourist footfall has steadily increased over the years, which has increased short-term rental demand.

Festivals, concerts, and cultural events make Toulouse particularly popular during the spring and summer months. The city also has a large student population, creating a high demand for short-term rentals. Additionally, Toulouse is home to several major companies, including Airbus and the European Space Agency, which attract business travellers in need of short-term accommodations.

As of February 2023, the AirDNA market minder estimates the following:

Average Daily Rate € 69 Occupancy Rate 73% Revenue € 1,085 Active rentals 3,222

According to RealAdvisor, the median price for houses on the market is € 490,000 as of February 2023.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

Located in the French Alps, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc has long been a popular ski resort in France. A region renowned for its stunning natural scenery and world-class skiing, the region is also home to the highest mountain in Western Europe, Mont Blanc. The town offers a wide range of winter sports activities, including skiing, snowboarding, ice climbing, and ski touring, as well as summer activities such as hiking, mountain biking, and paragliding. Chamonix is also home to several cultural and historical landmarks, including the Church of Saint-Michel and the Alpine Museum, which explores the history of mountaineering in the region.

Chamonix is a popular destination for short-term rentals, particularly during the winter months when tourists flock to the town for skiing and snowboarding. The town has also seen an increase in the demand for short-term rentals in recent years, as more tourists come for hiking, mountain biking, and other summer activities.

The demand for short-term rentals in Chamonix is driven by the town's reputation as a world-class ski resort, complemented by its stunning scenery and recreational opportunities. Indisputably, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc presents itself as a highly promising destination for short-term rentals, providing visitors with a distinctive and unforgettable experience amidst the beautiful Alpine landscape, while also offering investors a lucrative return on their investment.

As of February 2023, the AirDNA market minder estimates the following:

Average Daily Rate € 157 Occupancy Rate 63% Revenue € 2,011 Active rentals 2,737

According to RealAdvisor, the median price for houses on the market is € 1,976,000 as of February 2023.

To Conclude,

France is a wonderful destination for short-term rental investments, offering a wealth of diverse and stunning destinations for visitors to explore. From the glamorous and exclusive Saint-Tropez to the charming and picturesque towns of the French Riviera, with the cultural and historical allure of Paris, along with the appeal of other picturesque destinations such as Nice and Bordeaux, the potential for short-term rental investments in France is virtually boundless.

With strong demand for short-term rentals among both domestic and international visitors, investing in a property in one of these destinations can be a lucrative opportunity for those looking to break into the short-term rental market in France. Overall, France remains a top destination for tourists worldwide, and with the right investment, short-term rental property owners can take advantage of this demand to generate a steady stream of income while providing guests with an unforgettable vacation experience.

Reach out to the Industry Experts!

When considering the potential of short-term rentals in France, property owners may want to consider using vacation rental software to streamline their operations in order to optimize the potential of these investments. In the vacation rental industry, Hostaway is a market leader, offering property owners a comprehensive suite of tools for channel management, automation, payment processing, dynamic pricing, analytic reporting, and much more.

With Hostaway's user-friendly platform, property owners can effectively manage their short-term rental properties in France, ensuring that their guests have a positive experience. For those looking to enter the short-term rental market in France, investing in both the market and technology can provide a competitive advantage and attract guests.