Where to find a short term rental in France
France is full of exciting cities to experience, whether you’re here for a semester, an internship or a short work assignment. But choosing the right city, and the right neighbourhood, can make a huge difference in your stay. Here’s a simple guide to help you find an area that fits your lifestyle, budget and daily routine.
Best cities for a short-term stay as a student in France
If you're looking for a student-friendly environment with easy access to campuses, libraries, cafés and transport, these cities are particularly appreciated by international students:
- Paris: Top universities, lively student districts, excellent transport.
- Lyon: Major student hub with affordable areas like Villeurbanne or Guillotière.
- Montpellier: Sunny, young, close to the sea, perfect for a semester abroad.
- Toulouse: Engineering and aerospace schools, affordable and dynamic.
- Bordeaux: Beautiful city, accessible campuses, relaxed lifestyle.
Best cities for a short-term stay as a young professional
If you’re relocating for an internship, a work mission or a few months in France, these cities offer great comfort, quick commutes and strong work ecosystems:
- Paris: The strongest job market, countless office areas and coworking spaces.
- Lyon: A growing business hub with excellent transport and easy daily life.
- Nice: Tech, hospitality and tourism jobs — plus the French Riviera sunshine.
- Lille: Well-connected to London, Brussels and Paris, ideal for cross-border jobs.
- Nantes: Green, creative and booming with engineering and digital jobs.
How much does a short-term rental in France really cost?
Short term rental in France can vary widely from one city to another, but with the right expectations and a bit of flexibility, it’s possible to find something comfortable and well-located.
Is it realistic to stay in France for €800–€1,200?
Yes, depending on the city and type of accommodation. Here’s a general idea of average monthly prices across France:
- Room in flatshare: €500–€750/month
- Studio: €650–€1,000/month
- Student residence: €700–€1,100/month
- Coliving: €900–€1,300/month (all-inclusive)
Paris and the French Riviera are the most expensive regions, while cities like Lille, Toulouse, Montpellier or Nantes are more budget-friendly.
*Prices vary depending on the season, neighbourhood, size, furnishing level and included services.
Can I find an all-inclusive place for a short stay in France?
Yes! And it’s one of the most popular choices for international students and young professionals. All-inclusive rentals usually offer:
- fully furnished studios or rooms
- electricity, water, heating included
- Wi-Fi
- access to shared spaces, gyms or study rooms (residences & coliving)
Coliving and student residences are ideal if you want a “plug-and-play” experience with minimal setup.
Is a deposit required for a short-term rental in France?
In most cases, yes. Most short-term rentals request a deposit equivalent to one month’s rent. Some serviced residences may ask more depending on the equipment and services included.
With Studapart, your deposit is always secured through a trusted and transparent booking system.
Documents needed for a short-term rental in France
Short stays come with simpler paperwork than long-term leases, but there are still a few essential documents to prepare.
What type of lease is used for short-term rentals in France?
Short term rental in France usually falls under one of these categories:
- Mobility lease (1 to 10 months): perfect for interns, students, trainees or short missions. No deposit required in some cases.
- Student lease (9 months): ideal for academic stays; non-renewable.
- Furnished lease (1 year renewable): still possible for short stays if the landlord agrees.
What is the difference between a student lease and a mobility lease?
- Student lease: only for students, lasts 9 months, perfectly aligned with semesters.
- Mobility lease: available for students and young professionals, lasts 1–10 months, extremely flexible.
Do I need a guarantor for a short stay in France?
Often yes, guarantors are commonly requested in France, even for short stays.
If you don’t have a French guarantor, the Studapart Guaranteed Profile allows you to rent with a verified and trusted application.
Why Studapart is the best place to find a short-term rental in France
Short stays move quickly — and so should your rental search. Studapart is built for international mobility, making it easier to find a verified home in France, even from abroad.
How can Studapart help you find a short-term rental?
- Verified listings to protect you from scams
- Secure online booking before you even arrive in France
- Support in English and French to guide you through every step
- Clear, simple requirements designed for newcomers
- A network of partner universities across the country
Wherever you're coming from, Studapart helps you arrive in France feeling prepared, supported and reassured.
Search from abroad with video tours and secure booking
You can browse verified listings, watch virtual tours on many apartments and book safely from your home country. No need to visit in person — your booking is 100% secure.
Language support whenever you need it
Our team speaks English and French and can help you understand documents, leases and all the steps of your rental process.
Insurance options adapted to international stays
Studapart doesn’t manage visa applications, but we do make one essential step easier: you can subscribe to rental insurance that includes cancellation coverage.
It’s especially reassuring if your visa is refused or delayed — a simple way to secure your booking and protect your budget.
What is the Guaranteed Profile?
The Guaranteed Profile is designed for tenants who don’t have a French guarantor — a very common situation for international students and young professionals.
Studapart verifies your identity and documents, certifies your profile and gives you a “Guaranteed Profile” badge so landlords trust your application instantly.
Why Studapart is the right platform for your short-term stay in France
Finding a home in France shouldn’t be stressful. Studapart was designed to make every step smoother:
- Book from abroad with secure, verified listings
- Understand the process thanks to guides made for newcomers
- Enjoy a calm arrival with a rental journey built for short stays
With Studapart, finding your short-term rental in France becomes smoother, safer and truly stress-free — exactly how it should be.