For many seeking a quieter lifestyle, moving to one of the many picturesque villages in France offers a compelling alternative to city living. With lower property prices, a slower pace of life, and access to stunning landscapes, village life in France is increasingly popular among retirees, remote workers, and expats in France.
Whether you’re planning to relocate permanently or purchase a second home, these charming French villages provide a blend of heritage, community, and tranquillity. This guide highlights ten of the best villages for living in the French countryside, with practical insights for anyone considering rural living in France.
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Saint-Cirq-Lapopie (Occitanie)
Saint-Cirq-Lapopie is one of the most iconic villages in France, perched dramatically above the Lot River in the Occitanie region. With its cobbled streets, medieval stone houses, and terracotta rooftops, it offers postcard-worthy views and a peaceful way of life that appeals to those seeking authentic village life in France.
Designated as one of Les Plus Beaux Villages de France, Saint-Cirq-Lapopie is ideal for those interested in living in the French countryside while remaining within driving distance of Cahors and Toulouse.
Why live here
- Unspoilt rural charm: The village retains its historical architecture and strict building preservation regulations.
- Strong artistic community: Known for attracting artists and writers, the village hosts galleries and workshops.
- Outdoor lifestyle: Excellent access to hiking trails, kayaking, and river-based activities, ideal for nature lovers.
- Lower property prices compared to urban areas or Provence, offering value for expats in France.
Practical considerations
- Population: Approximately 200 residents
- Amenities: Limited services within the village, but essentials available in nearby Cahors (around 30 minutes away)
- Transport: Closest train station is in Cahors; a car is essential for daily life
- Internet & Connectivity: Fibre is available in surrounding areas, but availability should be confirmed per property
Who it suits
Saint-Cirq-Lapopie is ideal for those prioritising rural living in France with a slower pace, strong community feel, and natural surroundings. It suits retirees, self-employed remote workers, and creatives who value tranquillity and authenticity over urban convenience.
➡️ Tempted to make the move to Occitanie? Get our FREE guide to the Occitanie region here.
Eguisheim (Grand Est – Alsace)
Eguisheim is one of the most recognisable charming French villages, famous for its concentric circular streets lined with brightly painted, half-timbered houses. Situated in the Alsace wine region, it offers a blend of rural charm, historical character, and excellent infrastructure, making it one of the best villages in France to consider for relocation.
With a vibrant wine-growing culture and well-preserved architecture, Eguisheim provides a picturesque alternative to city life and a manageable entry point into village life in France.
Why live here
- Scenic and walkable: The village’s small scale makes it ideal for pedestrians and cyclists.
- Vineyard lifestyle: Surrounded by Alsatian vineyards, it’s perfect for those interested in wine, gastronomy, and traditional culture.
- Close to Colmar: Major amenities, healthcare services, and train links are just 15 minutes away.
- Active community: Hosts festivals, Christmas markets, and wine-related events throughout the year.
Practical considerations
- Population: Around 1,600 residents
- Amenities: Bakery, restaurants, small shops, post office; broader services in Colmar
- Transport: Buses to Colmar; good road access; nearest TGV station in Colmar
- Internet & Connectivity: Fibre broadband widely available, good options for remote workers in France.
Who it suits
Eguisheim is ideal for couples, remote workers, and retirees looking for a peaceful yet connected setting. With its balance of natural beauty and practical access to services, it appeals to those who want the benefits of living in France as an expat without total isolation. It’s also a good option for those seeking rural living in France with strong ties to German-speaking regions and cross-border mobility.
Lourmarin (Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur)
Lourmarin is one of the most sought-after charming French villages in the Provence region, located at the base of the Luberon mountains. Known for its elegant stone architecture, lively markets, and strong artistic presence, it offers a refined version of village life in France with a Mediterranean flair.
Despite its small size, Lourmarin has excellent amenities and a cosmopolitan feel, making it especially popular among expats in France and second-home buyers.
Why live here
- Vibrant weekly market: Fresh produce, textiles, and artisanal goods make the Friday market a centre of village life.
- High quality of life: Mild climate, scenic views, and a slower pace of life attract professionals and retirees alike.
- Cultural scene: Home to art galleries, music festivals, and the Château de Lourmarin, which hosts events and exhibitions.
- Access to services: Close to larger towns like Apt and Aix-en-Provence for healthcare, schools, and transport.
Practical considerations
- Population: Approximately 1,100 residents
- Amenities: Grocery shops, cafes, restaurants, pharmacy, post office, and boutique retail
- Transport: No train station in the village; regional transport to Aix-en-Provence (around 40 minutes by car)
- Internet & Connectivity: Fibre internet available in most properties, suitable for remote work and digital nomads
Who it suits
Lourmarin is ideal for individuals and families seeking a culturally rich yet relaxed experience of living in the French countryside. It’s particularly attractive for those interested in food, arts, and rural living in France with easy access to international airports and healthcare.
Collonges-la-Rouge (Nouvelle-Aquitaine)
Collonges-la-Rouge is a unique and visually striking option among the best villages in France to live in. Famous for its deep red sandstone buildings and slate roofs, this historic village in the Corrèze department offers a distinct character and an authentic experience of rural living in France.
Listed as one of Les Plus Beaux Villages de France, Collonges-la-Rouge appeals to those seeking architectural beauty, a quiet environment, and a well-preserved cultural heritage.
Why live here
- Unique architecture: The village’s uniform red stone buildings are protected by strict conservation rules.
- Quiet, rural setting: Surrounded by countryside, vineyards, and woodlands, ideal for a slower, nature-oriented lifestyle.
- Active tourism economy: While popular in summer, the village remains calm and liveable year-round.
- Strong sense of community: Locals take pride in maintaining the village’s heritage and welcoming newcomers.
Practical considerations
- Population: Around 500 residents
- Amenities: Local cafés, seasonal shops, small grocers; larger services in Brive-la-Gaillarde (around 30 minutes away)
- Transport: No train station; car required; nearest TGV in Brive-la-Gaillarde
- Internet & Connectivity: Decent rural broadband, though speeds vary by property, check availability if remote working
Who it suits
Collonges-la-Rouge is well-suited to artists, writers, and retirees seeking tranquillity, historic charm, and integration into a small local community. It’s one of the top choices for living in the French countryside if you value aesthetics, history, and quietude. It may be less ideal for families or those needing daily access to urban services.
For expats in France looking for genuine immersion in village life in France, it’s a rare and special setting.
Domme (Dordogne)
Domme is a bastide village located in the heart of the Dordogne valley, one of the most popular regions for expats in France. With its hilltop setting, panoramic views over the River Dordogne, and well-preserved medieval layout, Domme is an ideal destination for those seeking peaceful and authentic village life in France.
As part of the historic Périgord Noir area, Domme offers access to a rich cultural landscape, regional cuisine, and a welcoming expat community, making it one of the most desirable villages in France for relocation.
Why live here
- Outstanding views: The village overlooks the Dordogne valley and surrounding countryside, offering scenic beauty year-round.
- Architectural heritage: Features fortified gates, cobbled lanes, and 13th-century buildings.
- Tourism balanced with liveability: Busy in summer but calm and community-oriented outside peak season.
- Regional culture: Close to Sarlat, La Roque-Gageac, and local markets known for foie gras, truffles, and wine.
Practical considerations
- Population: Around 1,000 residents
- Amenities: Small grocery store, restaurants, pharmacy, and post office; full services available in nearby Sarlat-la-Canéda (around 15 minutes away)
- Transport: Nearest train stations in Sarlat or Gourdon; car essential for local transport
- Internet & Connectivity: Good broadband coverage for a rural area, viable for remote work
Who it suits
Domme is ideal for retirees, couples, and families who want a relaxed pace of life in an area popular with both French nationals and international residents. It strikes a balance between rural living in France and access to services, a key consideration when living in France as an expat.
For those prioritising history, nature, and a sociable yet tranquil lifestyle, Domme is one of the most appealing charming French villages to live in long-term.
Riquewihr (Grand Est – Alsace)
Riquewihr is one of the most visited yet liveable villages in France, located along the Alsace Wine Route near the Vosges mountains. Known for its brightly coloured half-timbered houses, cobbled streets, and historic charm, it is often described as a real-life fairytale village. Despite its popularity with tourists, it remains a practical choice for those interested in long-term village life in France.
With proximity to Colmar and the German border, Riquewihr is ideal for expats in France who want rural scenery, wine culture, and good cross-border access.
Why live here
- Exceptional visual appeal: UNESCO-style heritage streets and traditional Alsatian architecture
- Vineyard surroundings: Wine production is central to local life, with events and tastings year-round
- Multilingual region: Many locals speak both French and German, with English common in tourist services
- Nearby cities: Easy access to Colmar and Strasbourg for hospitals, schools, and TGV train connections
Practical considerations
- Population: Approximately 1,100 residents
- Amenities: Daily essentials available in the village; Colmar (15 mins by car) provides full services
- Transport: Bus access to Colmar; nearest major rail station in Colmar
- Internet & Connectivity: High-speed fibre broadband widely available, supports remote working
Who it suits
Riquewihr is a good choice for retirees, digital nomads, and dual-nationals who value cultural richness and access to both French and German infrastructure. It’s one of the best charming French villages for those who want the look and feel of a tourist gem without sacrificing practical liveability.
Whether you’re looking to enjoy rural living in France full-time or buying a part-time residence while living in France as an expat, Riquewihr offers a rare combination of beauty, convenience, and international accessibility.
Montsoreau (Pays de la Loire)
Montsoreau is a picturesque riverside village located on the banks of the Loire River, nestled between Saumur and Chinon. Known for its historic château, wine cellars, and vibrant cultural life, it stands out as one of the most refined villages in France for those seeking peaceful, elegant village life in France.
As part of the Loire-Anjou-Touraine Regional Natural Park, Montsoreau offers a scenic and tranquil base with excellent infrastructure, a strong option for those considering living in France as an expat in a semi-rural setting.
Why live here
- Riverside charm: Unique setting with views of the Loire River and direct access to outdoor leisure activities
- Cultural appeal: The Château de Montsoreau hosts contemporary art exhibitions and music events
- Wine region: Surrounded by vineyards producing Saumur and Chinon wines; wine tourism is well-developed
- Well connected: Close to larger towns for healthcare, schools, and shopping
Practical considerations
- Population: Around 500 residents
- Amenities: Local cafés, boulangerie, small grocery shop; larger services in Saumur (15 minutes by car)
- Transport: Saumur station (TGV access) nearby; car recommended
- Internet & Connectivity: Fibre broadband available in most areas, suitable for remote working and digital services
Who it suits
Montsoreau is ideal for those seeking a quiet yet cultured lifestyle, especially retirees, remote workers, and couples looking to embrace rural living in France without feeling isolated. The village is welcoming to newcomers and offers an accessible, high-quality environment for expats in France.
For those who value riverside walks, wine culture, and an artistic atmosphere, Montsoreau is one of the most liveable and charming French villages in the Loire Valley.
Lauzerte (Occitanie)
Lauzerte is a fortified hilltop village in the Tarn-et-Garonne department of Occitanie, officially recognised as one of Les Plus Beaux Villages de France. Known for its limestone architecture, arcaded central square, and location on the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route, Lauzerte blends history, creativity, and calm, a strong candidate for anyone considering village life in France.
We had to include this one in our list, our founder, Ben Small, grew up just around the corner, and we know first-hand how special this part of rural France can be.
Why live here
- Artistic community: Home to galleries, workshops, and regular cultural events, including open-studio days
- Peaceful rural setting: Surrounded by rolling countryside, vineyards, and sunflower fields
- Strategic location: Midway between Agen and Cahors; 1.5 hours from Toulouse
- Tight-knit but open-minded: The village welcomes both locals and newcomers, with a slowly growing expat presence
Practical considerations
- Population: Around 1,200 residents
- Amenities: Supermarket, bakery, pharmacy, cafés, small weekly market; more options in Moissac and Montauban
- Transport: Car essential; nearest train station in Moissac (~20 mins); airports in Toulouse or Bergerac
- Internet & Connectivity: Decent rural broadband; fibre increasingly available
Who it suits
Lauzerte is ideal for artists, remote workers, early retirees, and anyone looking for true rural living in France without total seclusion. It combines charm and functionality, perfect for those embracing living in France as an expat in a more grounded, authentic setting.
Its beauty, pace of life, and proximity to nature make it one of the lesser-known but most rewarding charming French villages to live in.
Tourettes-sur-Loup (Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur)
Tourettes-sur-Loup is a medieval village perched in the hills above the French Riviera, just a short drive from Nice. Often overlooked in favour of more tourist-heavy destinations, this village offers the perfect mix of charming French village character and modern convenience, making it one of the top choices for those seeking village life in France within reach of the coast.
With its artistic heritage, natural beauty, and proximity to urban services, it provides a balanced and comfortable environment for expats in France.
Why live here
- Lavender and violets: Known as the “City of Violets,” the village celebrates its floral culture with festivals and artisan shops
- Stone architecture and sea views: Cobbled streets, vaulted passageways, and panoramic views over the Côte d’Azur
- Creative community: Popular with artists, sculptors, and musicians, many workshops open to the public
- Proximity to Nice: Enjoy rural living while being just 30–40 minutes from international transport, healthcare, and city life
Practical considerations
- Population: Around 4,000 residents
- Amenities: Grocers, cafés, schools, post office, local bus service; everything else in nearby Vence or Nice
- Transport: Good road links; nearest airport and train station in Nice
- Internet & Connectivity: High-speed internet widely available, excellent for digital nomads and remote workers
Who it suits
Tourettes-sur-Loup is ideal for those wanting to combine rural living in France with easy access to Mediterranean cities and global travel links. It suits semi-retired professionals, families, and creatives who want to enjoy living in the French countryside without being isolated.
For living in France as an expat, especially near the Côte d’Azur, this village offers a rare balance of natural charm, infrastructure, and lifestyle.
Yvoire (Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes)
Yvoire is a beautifully preserved medieval village located on the shores of Lake Geneva (Lac Léman), near the Swiss border. With stone houses covered in flowering vines, cobbled streets, and stunning lakeside views, it is one of the most visually captivating villages in France.
This strategic location and high quality of life make Yvoire a strong option for those seeking village life in France with the benefits of cross-border mobility, international schools, and modern infrastructure, especially for expats in France working in Switzerland.
Why live here
- Lakeside living: Access to swimming, sailing, and waterfront dining with panoramic alpine backdrops
- Strong heritage protection: Architecture and landscape are carefully preserved; listed among Les Plus Beaux Villages de France
- Cross-border advantage: Located just 30 km from Geneva, ideal for cross-border workers or those with Swiss income
- Gardens and green space: Home to the Jardin des Cinq Sens, and surrounded by nature trails and mountain views
Practical considerations
- Population: Around 900 residents
- Amenities: Local shops, restaurants, pharmacy, and post office; full services in Thonon-les-Bains and Geneva
- Transport: Ferry links across Lake Geneva; road access to Geneva; nearest train station in Thonon
- Internet & Connectivity: Fibre broadband available, supports remote working and high data needs
Who it suits
Yvoire is ideal for professionals working in Geneva, retirees looking for scenic tranquillity, and families who want a mix of lakeside leisure and access to international services. It’s especially well suited to living in France as an expat with Swiss ties or dual-nationality families.
For those seeking a high standard of living with a balance of history, nature, and cross-border convenience, Yvoire ranks among the most strategic and charming French villages to live in.
❓ Not sure where to live in France? Take our quiz to discover which region best matches your lifestyle and priorities.
How to choose the right French village to live in
Not all villages in France offer the same standard of living. While charm, history, and scenery are major draws, practical elements can make or break your daily experience, especially if you’re living in France as a foreigner. The best villages combine aesthetics with year-round functionality, accessibility, and community life.
Below are the key factors to evaluate before making the move.
Essential services and connectivity
Check for access to shops, medical care, schools, and public services. Some rural French villages offer full amenities, while others rely on nearby towns. High-speed internet (fibre) is critical for remote workers, so confirm availability before committing.
Transport and mobility
Many villages require a car, especially those without reliable public transport. Proximity to airports or train stations enhances access to urban centres and healthcare. In remote regions, winter weather may affect travel.
Property and infrastructure
Traditional homes are full of character but may require maintenance. Consider whether you’re ready to manage renovations or upkeep, particularly in older stone properties. Broadband access, heating, and insulation should be verified.
Social life and year-round living
Some charming French villages become very quiet in the off-season. A permanent population supports community life, local businesses, and cultural events. Look for places with active year-round residents.
integration and administration
French bureaucracy can be slow in rural areas. Set up banking, utilities, and healthcare early, or use relocation support. Language integration also plays a major role in adapting to village life in France.
Final Tip: If unsure, rent before buying. It’s the best way to experience rural living in France before making a permanent move. Visit at different times of year to understand seasonal changes in pace and access.
➡️ Go further about living in rural France with our article The reality of living in rural France: What expats need to consider
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Final notes
France is home to hundreds of beautiful villages, but not all are ideal for long-term living. The ten charming French villages in this guide offer a mix of aesthetic appeal, practical infrastructure, and vibrant local life, key ingredients for a successful move.
Whether you’re seeking peace, creativity, nature, or cross-border mobility, village life in France can provide a rewarding and affordable alternative to big cities. For expats in France, especially those prioritising lifestyle, integration, and slower living, these villages represent some of the best places to settle in rural France.
