Top five places to retire in France
France is far and away one of the most popular destinations for those looking to retire abroad, and with its picturesque countryside, beautiful weather and rich culture it’s easy to see why.
However, with there being so many French regions to choose from, narrowing down where to spend your golden years can be trickier than you’d think.
So to help make the decision making process easier, we’ve compiled a list of some of the top five places you may want to consider when looking to retire in France.
Bordeaux
Location
Bordeaux is a prominent port city located in the south-west of France on the Garonne River, with the size of the river allowing the city to accommodate all types of shipping, including ocean liners.
Climate
While Bordeaux’s position on the Atlantic coast means that its climate is technically classified as oceanic, the warm summer weather is comparable to a Mediterranean climate – albeit with more substantial summer rain.
Cost of Living
If you are looking for a location to retire to in France on a fairly modest budget then you may want to consider looking at Bordeaux – the cost of a one-bedroom apartment in the city centre averages at only around €575 a month.
Fun Fact
Bordeaux has been producing its famous wine since the time of the Romans and is often referred to as the wine capital of the world.
Normandy
Location
Normandy is one of the northernmost regions in France, with its close proximity to England providing retirees with easy access across the channel (should they require it).
Climate
Normandy’s position on the northern coast of France means that it does catch some flak for its often wet and windy weather, although it is known to enjoy warmer weather in the summer.
Cost of Living
Normandy’s proximity to the capital can mean that the cost of living in the region can be a little higher than in the south of France.
However, with easier access to Paris and the transport links it offers, you may find that the costs balance out if you plan to do any regular travelling outside of France.
Fun Fact
The name Normandy is derived from the Norsemen who invaded and settled the region in the early-10th century after Viking leader Hrólfr Ragnvaldsson swore fealty to King Charles the Simple and legally claimed the region.
Paris
Location
Paris is located in the Île-de-France region in the North of France along the Seine River, just a few hours from the Belgian border.
Climate
Paris’ proximity to the channel means that the city’s climate is directly influenced by the sea, with wind regularly blowing fresh sea air across the region and cooling it, however temperatures still average above 20°C in the summer.
Cost of Living
Paris (unsurprising) is not a particularly cheap location to retire to, but you do get what you pay for – you’d be hard pressed to find another city on the planet that offers such beauty and culture in one place.
Fun Fact
Paris features its own Statue of Liberty. It’s located on an island in the middle of the Seine River and points towards the one in New York, only fitting really since the French built the original!
Lyon
Location
The third largest city in France, Lyon, is located relatively centrally in the country, only around an hour away from the Alps, making it a great location for those who enjoy a spot of skiing in the winter.
Climate
Lyon is classified as having a humid subtropical climate, with temperatures that touch highs of 22°C during the summer months and winters that are quite mild and dry.
Cost of Living
The average cost of living in Lyon is quite reasonable, however one area you may find yourself spending a little extra on is eating out, Lyon’s reputation as the Culinary Capital of France means that restaurants tend to be of a high quality but a little more pricy.
Fun Fact
Lyon features a number of hidden passageways called Traboules between various buildings in certain areas of the city. These Traboules have been used for centuries, including by the French resistance in the Second World War.
Marseille
Location
Marseille is the southern most major city in France and also the largest metropolitan area along the country’s Mediterranean coast.
Climate
As it is situated on the Mediterranean, Marseille unsurprisingly enjoys a Mediterranean climate with mild winters and balmy summers. Temperatures average around 28–30°C, and it also holds the title for the sunniest major city in France.
Cost of Living
For those looking for French Riviera weather and beaches without French Riviera prices, Marseille is likely the place for you. With rent for a one bedroom apartment in the city centre averaging just €525 a month, it’s well within many retirees’ budgets.
Fun Fact
France’s national anthem La Marseillaise originated from a marching song sung by a contingent of volunteers from the city who marched to Paris to defend the new Republican government in the 18th century.
This line-up is by no means an exhaustive list of every great retirement location in France, but if it has caused you to seriously consider retiring to France then you may wish to check out our buying guide for France!
