Long Term Rentals in Europe: A 2025 Guide

If you are planning a long term trip to Europe and are exploring your lodging options, you've come to the right place!

Finding the right accommodation is essential for your trip. Whether you need proof of accommodation for your upcoming long stay visa application or you're simply exploring your options to see what's out there, it's an important item to check off the to-do list.

Nowadays, there are a lot of options for travelers that need long term rentals for extended trips.

Whether you're heading to France, Spain, or another popular European destination, this article will talk about some of the options you have when it comes to where you're going to stay.

Finding temporary housing abroad

Depending on how long you're planning to be abroad, it can be tricky to find accommodations before you go.

However, it's often essential - especially if you're planning to spend more than 90 days in Europe and require a visa. If you haven't started the visa process yet, you may not know that showing proof of accommodation at your visa appointment is often a mandatory part of the process.

Thankfully, you are not alone. Many travelers are looking for temporary long term solutions, and because of that, there are several options that you can turn to.

An important note: Make sure you approach your apartment search with caution, especially if you're trying to secure housing before arriving at your destination. Housing scams happen, especially in larger cities like Paris or Madrid. Always do your research about a company, agent, or property, and listen to your gut.

Extended hotels

Depending on the lifestyle you're looking for, extended hotels may be available in the city you're staying in.

Extended hotels are a great option because this is their bread and butter - housing travelers for a longer period of time.

While there are different companies that have different offerings, they all provide essentially the same service: long term housing for travelers.

Extended hotels are typically more robust than the average hotel room, often including a separate living area and a small functional kitchen with appliances.

There are a few perks when staying in an extended hotel. One of those is having locals (hotel staff) available to answer questions or give recommendations.

Another perk is potential amenities available to hotel guests, like pools, gyms, and lounges.

Because extended-stay hotels are set up for this very scenario, you also avoid having to sign up for local utility services, wifi, and other must-have services that often require contracts.

The hotel handles everything, and you pay for the convenience.

Vacation and holiday rentals

If you're looking for an option that feels a little bit homier than the hotel vibe, a vacation or holiday rental might appeal to you.

On popular sites like Airbnb and Vrbo, you can find options in your destination that are rented out by both independent owners and management companies. It can help you to search the name of your destination alongside "holiday rentals" or "vacation homes". Many cities have local companies that specialize in exactly what you're looking for.

While not all rentals can cater to extended stays, many do have "rent by the month" options. These options also cut the price down to a more reasonable monthly charge.

This option is very popular and convenient as you don't have to deal with things like utility and wifi set-up, but you get to stay in a comfortable, furnished home.

Because these sites have dedicated platforms, you will also have the overarching company on your side in case you need additional assistance.

Having an overarching platform is another form of security as payments will go through there, making it an all-around good choice for long term travelers.

Private short-term leases

While it can be a bit more complicated to find a private "short-term" lease while you're abroad, it could be an option for you.

Unlike other options, like extended-stay hotels and vacation rentals, private short-term rentals typically do not offer the security of a company unless they are managed by an agency.

This can be tricky because you're relying on the knowledge and, ultimately, word of the private owner.

Additionally, you may have to deal with local companies like electricity and gas, or set up your own wifi. This can be confusing if you're unfamiliar with the local language and lay of the land.

Depending on how long you're staying, it can help to find a temporary solution (such as a hotel or Airbnb) and then search for a private lease while you're in-country, in-person. This is a common route that travelers take and the most secure and safe option to avoid nasty scams.

How to find rentals in Europe

There are several ways to find rentals in Europe, and they all begin with the help of the internet.

Google and other search engines

Search engines are a great resource. By typing in phrases like "Paris vacation rentals" or "Madrid apartment hotels", you will be able to find a variety of services.

Online groups and forums

Online groups and forums are a fantastic resource as you can get specific advice from real people who have been in your exact situation. Just keep in mind that the information you read in groups and forums may not be 100% accurate or reliable and may be outdated, so it should be taken with a grain of salt. Regardless, it can be helpful to read about other people who have shared your experience.

VPN

Searching with a VPN (a virtual private network) can help you find options you may not have stumbled upon otherwise. A VPN allows you to "trick" the internet into thinking you're actually searching from somewhere else. For example, if you're in the US right now but want to search for rentals in Madrid, you can toggle your VPN to Spain and see all of the results someone in Spain would see instead.

This can be quite helpful, as local results can differ around the world.

Your workplace or school

If you're traveling abroad because of work, school, or another organization or program, you may be able to lean on them for housing support.

They may have advice for you (or even housing options). Regardless, it's worth the ask.

FAQs about long term rentals in Europe