French city tourism on the rise

New figures have revealed that now could be the ideal time for people thinking of investing in French property to start buying.

It seems that European city tourism is growing faster than any other area of the European economy, with thousands of visitors heading to France for weekend breaks and needing somewhere to stay.

This bodes well for those thinking of purchasing a holiday home in urban France as it could easily be rented out to those who are taking a city break.

Travel in Paris or Lyon

The figures come from European Cities Marketing which represents more than 100 European cities, tourist boards and convention bureaus.

It seems that the trend began back in 2000 when the rise of the low-cost airline saw a huge boost to French tourism.

Although some will be looking for French hotels, many visitors to large cities such as Lyon, Paris and Nice may be hoping for something a little bit different.

Renting out homes for those on a weekend break can be a profitable move, especially as the trend for people heading to French cities looks set to rise.

Renovating in France

So you have found that ideal holiday home but it needs a lot of work. Fear not as, in many ways, doing up a home abroad is much simpler than in the UK.

The French planning laws are much less strict, although planning permission is needed for any work on existing buildings which affects the building’s use, changes its appearance or volume or adds floors.

Many people opt to get British builders to come in and help with the renovation work as they often cost less money but there is a risk to this.

If the labourers ignore French rules with regard to building work then insurance can be invalidated.

If you enjoyed this article please Social Bookmark so that others can benefit .....

Related Articles:
Provence's markets get everyone together
Start a life in stunning Provence
Visit Arles for a true taste of Provence
Discover the wines of sunny Provence
Spend more than a year in Provence
Experience Provence's famous rose festival
Cannes Film Festival preparations underway
Hollywood welcomed to boost French tourism
French city tourism on the rise
Travel through France to Avignon