France has long been one of Europe’s top retirement destinations, and for good reason. From rolling vineyards and peaceful countryside to elegant cities and sun-soaked coastlines, France offers a relaxed pace of life, a rich culture, and some of the best food and wine in the world.
With excellent healthcare, well-connected transport links, and property options to suit a range of budgets, France continues to attract retirees from all over the globe. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful rural escape or vibrant city living, there’s something here for every lifestyle. But where should you begin your search?
We’ve rounded up nine of the best places to retire in France in 2025. Whether you’re searching for mountain-backed towns in the south, or charming riverside communities in the heart of the country, keep reading to find out where you can retire in France in 2025.
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Occitanie
A pretty street in Montpellier's old town
France’s “sunniest region” isn’t called that for nothing! With long, hot summers and wonderfully mild winters, this southwestern gem is often seen as an affordable alternative to the glamorous (and pricey) Côte d’Azur. Occitanie stretches from the Mediterranean Sea to the Pyrenees mountains, with Spain and Andorra just a short drive away, it’s a region full of variety and charm.
Cities like Toulouse and Montpellier offer a lively mix of culture, excellent healthcare, and international communities, while smaller towns such as Uzès and Béziers are rich in local character and perfect for a slower-paced lifestyle. The region’s deep-rooted history is reflected in the regional languages, including Occitan and Catalan, and in its delectable cuisine, markets and traditions.
With access to coastlines, ski slopes, vineyards, and countryside all within reach, it’s easy to see why Occitanie appeals to so many retirees. Property prices are generally lower than in Provence, and day-to-day living costs are manageable, making it one of the most well-rounded retirement options in France.
If your idea of retirement includes lavender fields, sun-warmed rosé, and cicadas humming in the background, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur (PACA) could be your perfect match. This sun-drenched region is the epitome of southern French living, with a Mediterranean vibe, historic towns, and some of the most beautiful landscapes in the country.
The coastal cities – Nice, Antibes, Cannes – are glamorous and cosmopolitan, offering beachfront promenades, festivals, and excellent healthcare. But if you’re after something quieter, the inland towns may steal your attention. Places like Aix-en-Provence, Arles, and Vence are known for their cobbled streets, Roman ruins, and vibrant weekly markets. Aix’s Cours Mirabeau is a particular favourite, filled with lavender, olives, and Provençal cheeses!
While it’s one of France’s more expensive regions, many feel the exceptional quality of life is worth the price tag. The healthcare system is well-established, and transport links make it easy to stay connected, especially with nearby Nice, Marseille, and Toulon airports.
If you’re looking for an active retirement with great weather, cultural richness, and a splash of Provençal elegance, this region ticks all the boxes!
Discover properties for sale in Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur
If you’re looking for a retirement spot that’s rich in tradition, steeped in history, and never too far from the sea, Brittany might be your perfect match! This northwestern gem feels wonderfully distinct from the rest of France, with its Celtic roots, craggy coastlines, and famously independent spirit.
From the medieval streets of Dinan to the half-timbered horses of Quimper, and the colourful harbour at Vannes, Brittany is full of small towns that offer a slower way of life. With walkable centres, historic architecture, and access to the coast, Brittany is also one of the more popular regions for international buyers. You’ll find a large population of British and Dutch expats, thanks to its proximity to the ferry ports, English-speaking communities, and relatively affordable property prices.
The markets here are a way of life, pick up fresh seafood, freshly-pressed cider, sweet crêpes, and salted butter caramel sold in the picturesque squares. In Rennes, the weekly market at Place des Lices is one of France’s largest, and a lively gathering spot of locals.
While the weather is cooler than in the south, the mild climate, lower cost of living, and welcoming communities make Brittany a strong contender for a peaceful retirement.
For many retirees, Normandy strikes the perfect balance: close to the UK and Northern Europe, steeped in French culture, and packed with countryside and coastline. Its rich green landscapes, elegant stone farmhouses, and apple orchards make it a peaceful and picturesque place to spend your later years.
Towns like Bayeux, Honfleur, and Caen offer the quintessential mix of old-world charm and modern convenience, while Rouen, the region’s capital, brings a bit more buzz with museums, restaurants, and a thriving arts scene. Normandy has long been popular with British retirees in particular, thanks to its easy access via ferry and direct trains to Paris, but it’s increasingly attracting other European nationals too. You’ll find a growing expat community, especially around the coast and in rural hamlets crowned with beautiful restored homes.
The cost of living is lower in this region still, and the healthcare system is well-regarded, with hospitals and clinics available in most towns. Normandy also boasts a mouth-watering food scene. If you like camembert, apple cider, and Calvados brandy, you’re in the right place as they all originate from here!
When you’re not wandering around the many abundant village markets then the D-Day beaches, Mont-Saint-Michel, and the winding Seine Valley offer plenty to explore in your free time!
For retirees wanting a quiet and culturally rich lifestyle with good infrastructure, Normandy is hard to beat.
If you’ve dreamed of your retirement including quiet mornings in the garden, afternoons spent at local markets, and evenings with a glass of red and a view of the rolling hills, then Dordogne may be just the place.
Often called Périgord by locals, this region in southwest France is famous for its picture-perfect villages, gentle rivers, and the promise of a lifestyle built around food, nature, and community.
Towns like Sarlat-la-Canéda, Bergerac, and Brantôme are popular among retirees, thanks to their welcoming atmosphere, beautiful architecture, and slower pace of life. The Dordgone is also home to one of the largest English-speaking expat communities in France – ideal if you’re looking for an easy transition and a ready-made social network.
The healthcare system is strong, with hospitals in Périgueux and Bergerac, and transport links via nearby airports and rail stations. Property is still relatively affordable and beautiful, with many Dordogne towns appearing in the list of France’s prettiest places to live. Many homes in the region come with generous outdoor space, land, or even a swimming pool.
Local markets are a real highlight here, overflowing with walnuts, cheese, duck confit, and seasonal produce. The region is also known for its truffles and wines, and hosts food festivals throughout the year.
The River Loire Passing the City of Amboise in the Loire Valley
The Loire Valley is like stepping into a French fairytale – with sweeping vineyards, storybook towns, and more châteaux than you can count. Located in central France, this UNESCO-listed region is known for its elegance, walkability, and a lifestyle that is both peaceful and cultured.
Towns like Amboise, Chinon, and Blois are popular with retirees who want charm without isolation. Tours, the region’s largest city, blends history with convenience – offering excellent healthcare, shopping, and a growing expat community. Thanks to the TGV (fast train), you can reach Paris in under an hour and still come home to garden views and riverside strolls.
The Loire is also a foodie’s paradise, famous for its white wines, goat’s cheese, and open-air markets. Many villages host weekend brocantes (antique and flea markets), and the region’s mild climate means outdoor living is possible almost year-round. Living costs are generally lower than in Provence or the south, and property here tends to offer great value with plenty of space to go around.
With its gentle pace, cultural richness, and strong infrastructure, the Loire Valley is a dream retirement destination for those who want the best of French living without the crowds.
Paris might not be the first place that comes to mind for a quiet retirement, but for those who crave connection, culture, and convenience, the City of Light has plenty to offer. Retiring here means swapping countryside calm for a lifestyle that’s vibrant, walkable, and full of endless possibilities!
With its world-class museums, historic cafés, unique markets, and huge green spaces like the Jardin du Luxembourg, Paris offers neverending things to do – especially for solo retirees or couples looking for an active, socially rich lifestyle. While central neighbourhoods can be pricey, areas like Montreuil, Saint-Mandé, or Vincennes on the city’s eastern edge offer a quieter, more residential feel with all the perks of big-city living just a metro ride away.
Healthcare access in Paris is exceptional, with top hospitals and clinics across the city. The public transport system is one of the best in Europe, making it easy to get around without a car. And with international airports and high-speed train stations on your doorstep, travel is effortless.
Tucked between the French Alps and a crystal-clear lake, Annecy offers one of the most scenic retirement settings in France. Known as the “Venice of the Alps” thanks to its canals, and pastel-coloured buildings, this postcard-perfect town blends outdoor adventure with a calm, community feel.
Life here revolves around nature, whether it’s swimming in Lac d’Annecy, walking or cycling the lakeside paths, or heading into the mountains for hiking or skiing. The town is clean, safe, and beautifully maintained, with a relaxed pace of life that appeals to retirees who enjoy an active and healthy lifestyle.
Though the cost of living is a little higher than in rural regions, many feel it’s worth it for the air quality, scenery, and infrastructure. Healthcare facilities here are excellent, and the town is just a 45 minute drive away from Geneva International Airport, making travel easy. You’ll find a mix of French and international residents, giving it a slightly cosmopolitan edge without losing its charm.
Annecy offers a rare balance of a peaceful lakeside lifestyle with all the benefits of mountain living, with all it offers just steps from a vibrant town centre, you just know your friends back home will be jealous of your extra-special retirement location!
Biarritz is a city on the Bay of Biscay on the Atlantic coast in France.
Once a playground for royalty, Biarritz is now a stylish seaside town with a laid-back atmosphere and just the right amount of glamour. Perched on France’s southwest Atlantic coast, it offers a retirement lifestyle like no other. Blending beachside walks, bustling cafés, and a strong sense of identity rooted in Basque culture, you’ll find something unique for your retirement here!
The town itself is compact, walkable, and clean with sandy beaches, Belle Époque architecture, and a lively food scene. Retirees are drawn to the relaxed pace, clean air, and year-round appeal. From mild winters to breezy surf-ready summers. It’s not uncommon to start your day with a croissant and ocean view, and end it with fresh seafood and local wine.
With excellent healthcare facilities, modern clinics and hospitals in and around the town, Biarritz is a trusted destination for plenty of retirees. This area is home to a growing international community, including retirees from Spain, Belgium, and northern Europe. The nearby airports offer flights across France and Europe, and Spain is just a short drive away… How would a weekend in San Sebastián or Bilbao sound?
If you’re after a coastal retirement with an extra touch of class, plenty of personality and enough culture to go around, Biarritz could be the perfect place to settle into your new chapter of life.
From sun-drenched vineyards and Alpine lakes to lively coastal towns and quiet country villages, France offers something for every kind of retiree. Whether you’re dreaming of a peaceful place to slow down or a vibrant community to explore life’s next chapter, there’s never been a better time to make the move.
With excellent healthcare, rich cultural traditions, and a range of property options to suit all budgets, retiring in France in 2025 is as practical as it is inspiring. As long as you choose the location that feels right for you!
So now, the only questions left for you to answer is, where will you begin?
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