The rhythmic clang of cowbells was the soundtrack to my afternoons, drifting down from the pasture just above our garden. I mowed the lawn, a task that felt less like a chore and more like a scene from The Sound of Music.
But we weren't in Switzerland or Austria; we were deep in the French Alps, looking after two independent outdoor cats, swimming in mountain lakes, and eating far too many pastries.
When Caro and I first started house sitting it was to reduce our accommodation bills when traveling, but we would have never dreamed to be living in Mansions that most people only dream of.
This is the reality of house sitting in France. It is easily one of our favorite countries to sit in, offering everything from rugged Atlantic coastlines to the glitz of the Riviera and the quiet charm of mountain villages.
Whether you want to live like a local in Lyon or find a quiet retreat in the Pyrenees, here is everything we’ve learned about securing the best house sits in France.
The Best Platforms to Find House Sits in France
France is one of the most popular destinations for house sitters, which means the competition can be stiff. However, because the culture of gardiennage (house sitting) is well-established here, there are plenty of opportunities if you look in the right places.
1. TrustedHousesitters (Global Reach)
This is the heavyweight champion of house sitting. We use it constantly because the volume of listings is unmatched. In France, you will find everything from city apartments in Paris to renovated farmhouses in Dordogne.
Pros: Huge inventory and a review system that builds instant trust.
Cons: It is the most expensive option upfront, and the competition for prime locations (like the South of France in August) is intense.
Verdict: If you are serious about traveling internationally, this is a must-have.
Tip: To offset the membership fee, check out a Trusted House Sitter promo code for 2026 before signing up.
Link: Trusted House Sitters
2. Nomador ( The Local Favorite)
If your heart is set specifically on France, Nomador is arguably your best bet. It started in France, meaning it has a massive density of French homeowners who might not list on English-centric global sites.
Pros: It has the highest number of French listings. They also have a unique "Stopover" feature where members host each other for a night, which is great for building community.
Cons: The interface can feel a bit simpler than its competitors, and some users find the navigation slightly dated.
Verdict: Essential for deep-diving into French regions.
Link: Nomador
3. MindMyHouse (Budget-Friendly)
For those just dipping their toes in the water, MindMyHouse is a fantastic, low-risk entry point.
Pros: It is incredibly affordable (around €29/year). The community feels smaller and more personal.
Cons: You won't find nearly as many listings here as the big two, and they don't have as many formal verification features.
Link: Mind my house
For a broader look at how these compare globally, you can read our breakdown of international house sitting platforms.
When to Go: Timing Your French Adventure
France is a year-round destination, but your experience will vary wildly depending on the calendar.
Spring (March–May) and Autumn (September–November) are the sweet spots. The weather is mild, the crowds have thinned, and homeowners are often looking for sitters so they can take their own off-season breaks. We find that long-term house sitting opportunities pop up frequently during these shoulder seasons.
Summer (June–August) is glorious but chaotic. The French Riviera and coastal areas are packed. However, this is also when many French families go on their grandes vacances, leaving their homes empty for 2-4 weeks. If you can handle the heat and book early, you can score incredible properties with pools.
Winter (December–February) is quiet unless you are in the Alps or Pyrenees. If you are a skier, this is the jackpot. 2 years ago we enjoyed the summer in the Alps, but we can see why winter sitters flock there. Just remember that heating costs can sometimes be a discussion point in older French homes, so clarify who pays for what before you arrive.
Where to Sit: Choosing Your Region
The French Alps
We might be biased because we house sat there, but the Alps are spectacular. We were a stone's throw from mountain lakes, perfect for swimming on hot days. It’s ideal for house sitting for remote workers because the environment is peaceful, though you need to check the Wi-Fi speeds in rural chalets!
The Coastlines
For sea lovers, you have two distinct vibes. The French Riviera (Côte d’Azur) offers Mediterranean glamour, think Nice, Cannes, and Villefranche-sur-Mer. These are often luxury house sits requiring a high level of responsibility. On the other side, the Atlantic Coast (Biarritz, La Rochelle) is rugged, wild, and fantastic for seafood.
The Cities
Paris is the dream for many, but it is highly competitive. If you want a city vibe without the extreme competition, look at Lyon (the food capital) or Bordeaux. Strasbourg in the northeast offers a unique blend of French and German culture.
A Note on French Pâtisseries (And Waistlines)
One "hazard" of house sitting in France that nobody warns you about is the local boulangerie. Caro and I have found it impossible to stay away.
Croissant: The breakfast staple. If it doesn't flake all over your shirt, is it even real?
Pain au Chocolat: Essential.
Religieuse: A two-tier choux pastry masterpiece that looks like a nun (hence the name).
Kouign-Amann: If you are in Brittany, this buttery, caramelized cake is life-changing.
Practical Tips for France
1. Language Barriers
While many people speak English, especially in cities, rural France is different. Learning a few basic phrases goes a long way. Homeowners appreciate the effort.
2. Transport
In cities like Paris or Lyon, you don't need a car. But for our sit in the Alps, a vehicle was essential for getting groceries. Always ask the homeowner if lending their car is an option, or budget for a rental.
3. Money Matters
France is card-friendly, but you'll need cash for markets and small bakeries. We use N26 to manage our spending and avoid nasty exchange rates.
4. Pets in France
We were watching two cats, and honestly, house sitting for cats in rural France is a breeze. They are usually independent outdoor explorers. Dog sits can be more demanding as French culture involves taking dogs everywhere, but leash laws vary by region.
5. Visas and Customs
If you are coming from outside the EU, be mindful of the 90/180-day Schengen rule. Also, knowing what to tell customs is vital; you are there as a tourist visiting friends/staying in a home, not "working" for payment.
Is It Worth It?
Sitting on a terrace, watching the sunset over the mountains while the cats snooze on the patio furniture, the answer is a resounding yes. Is house sitting worth it? Absolutely. It allows you to slow down and live in a place rather than just rushing through it.
Whether you are looking to save money, find a quiet place to work, or simply eat your weight in éclairs, France is the perfect playground for house sitters. Just remember to leave the house clean and maybe leave a thank you note, it’s the little things that get you invited back.
Konrad and Caro 🐾
What is the best website for house sitting in France specifically?
Nomador is widely considered the best platform for France-specific listings because it was founded there and has a large local user base. However, TrustedHousesitters also has a massive inventory of French properties.
Do house sitters in France get paid?
Generally, no. Most house sits in France are an exchange of services: you provide free pet and home care in return for free accommodation. Professional pet sitters who charge a fee usually operate through different agencies or local classifieds.
Can I house sit in France without a visa?
If you are an EU citizen, yes. If you are from outside the EU (like the US, UK, or Australia), you typically enter on a tourist visa (Schengen Visa), which allows you to stay for 90 days within a 180-day period. House sitting is unpaid, so it generally falls under tourism, but always check the latest immigration rules.
Do I need to speak French to house sit in France?
It is not strictly mandatory, especially in major cities or with expat homeowners, but learning basic phrases is highly recommended. In rural areas, speaking some French is crucial for daily tasks like grocery shopping and communicating with neighbors.
Is a car necessary for house sitting in France?
It depends entirely on the location. In cities like Paris, Lyon, or Bordeaux, public transport is excellent. However, for sits in the countryside, the Alps, or coastal villages, a car is often essential for buying food and reaching the property.
