Luxury real estate is in constant motion, following the evolution of society and the choices of a discerning clientele in search of serenity and ever-greater excellence. Here is our selection of destinations to discover today in order to invest or live there tomorrow.
01. London, United Kingdom
After the turbulence of 2020-2023, 2024 presented its own series of challenges, including an even more restrictive Budget under the new Labour government. Sales fell -32% in volume, with nearly 60,000 properties sold. But despite this political and fiscal instability, London is still London! For many nationalities, the British capital remains above all a multicultural city reputed for its lifestyle, where English is spoken, with a buzzing cultural scene and excellent global connections.
02. Rome, Italy
Equal parts ancient and modern, cosmopolitan and vibrant, the Italian capital is the third most visited city in Europe. 2025 marks the Jubilee of Pope Francis. Urban renovation works begun in 2024 will contribute to improvements in services, mobility and the beauty of the city. Prices of upmarket properties are still relatively low compared to other European metropolises, making buying in Rome a fantastic opportunity.
03. Istanbul, Turkey
Steeped in 2,600 years of history, successively baptised Byzantine then Constantinople, Istanbul is unique worldwide. Split into two by the Bosporus Strait, the "Second Rome" is the only city in the world to be located on two continents. With a population of 15.6 million, Istanbul is Turkey's primary hub for trade, finance, and industry. Istanbul is constantly evolving with major urban regeneration projects across the city.
04. Barcelona, Spain
The Catalan capital continues to be a popular choice among students, tourists and international investors. Its climate, laid-back lifestyle, vibrant atmosphere, architecture and relatively affordable property prices make it a strong investment. In 2024, Barcelona became the first city in the world to host both an Olympic Games (1992) and the America's Cup.
05. Budapest, Hungary
Budapest is the most remarkable emerging destination in Central Europe. Its architectural beauty, thermal heritage, booming gastronomic and cultural scene and still very accessible prices make it a unique investment opportunity. Hungary has one of Europe's most advantageous tax systems. The government has also put forward an ambitious development plan shaping the country's industrial and economic growth.
06. Marrakech, Morocco
Nicknamed the "Pearl of the South", Marrakech is one of the emblems of Morocco, located at the foot of the Atlas Mountains. It ranks among the most popular tourist destinations in Morocco. The market holds significant potential, especially with upcoming events such as the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations and the 2030 World Cup (co-hosted by Spain, Morocco and Portugal).
07. Brussels, Belgium
Capital of the European Union and seat of many international institutions, Brussels offers a stable and liquid luxury property market. Investors have full confidence in Brussels, which offers luxury real estate at particularly reasonable prices for a European capital. The most prestigious areas include Ixelles, Avenue Louise, and Uccle.
08. Geneva, Switzerland
Geneva is undoubtedly a major international hub in the centre of Europe. Wealthy families choose to live here for the security, the excellent health system and universities, and the extraordinary cultural and culinary scene. Geneva remains a safe bet for real estate: stable prices, falling mortgage interest rates since 2023, economic and political stability, and advantageous corporate taxation.
09. Luxembourg
The Grand Duchy of Luxembourg is a new entry in the BARNES City Index 2025. Its political stability, robust financial economy and central position within Europe make it a top choice for UHNWI families seeking a discreet and secure European base. Luxembourg is renowned for its security, its human-scale town planning and a multilingual culture that makes it easy for expats to fit in.
10. Lisbon & Porto, Portugal
Several factors converge to attract investors and an international clientele to Portugal: a mild climate, reasonable cost of living, security, first-rate health system and international schools. Lisbon attracts large numbers of digital nomads and is increasingly popular among Americans. Porto, surrounded by the Douro River and the Atlantic Ocean, offers a remarkable quality of life at more affordable prices.
11. Athens & its islands, Greece
Athens is a capital like no other in the Western world — few cities can combine such rich culture and heritage with the benefits of a modern metropolis. In under half an hour, you can be sunbathing on an idyllic beach or hiking in the mountains. Property prices are set to post a moderate increase but will remain competitive compared to other European capitals.
12. Montreal, Province of Quebec, Canada
Montreal's buoyant economic and political climate is boosting its development and international profile. Unanimously considered one of the North American cities with the greatest potential for growth, particularly in aeronautics, AI and renewable energy. Despite global economic uncertainty, Canada remains a safe-haven in property thanks to the attractiveness of skilled jobs and the level of safety in Montreal.
13. Bordeaux, France
Bordeaux has shed its image as a sleeping beauty. Over the past 20 years, the city has experienced a remarkable transformation, driven by its high quality of life, rich heritage, and growing economic prospects. With apartments at prices 50-70% lower than in Paris, many Ile-de-France residents are looking to rent or invest in Bordeaux.
14. Lyon, France
Lapped by the waters of the Rhone and Saone, Lyon has exhibited diversity and dynamism for decades. Two hours from Paris by TGV, less than two hours from the ski resorts in the Alps and Geneva, and less than three hours from the beaches of the Mediterranean. Lyon stands out for its attractive price levels compared to other European cities of similar size and influence.
15. Deauville, France
Deauville's origins can be traced to a 1860 real estate investment that transformed a Norman village into a fashionable seaside resort within a few short years. A century and a half later, Deauville continues to epitomise the harmonious fusion of prestigious real estate and timeless fashion. Ever-more potential buyers are looking to move their semi-primary residence here for the exceptional quality of life between sea and land.
16. Arcachon Bay — Arcachon, Pyla-sur-Mer, Cap Ferret
Stretching from the tip of Cap Ferret to the Dune du Pilat, Arcachon Bay is home to breathtaking natural wonders — ocean, bay, lakes, forests, and oyster farms — offering year-round enjoyment. As the territory is limited geographically, the property market is traditionally characterised by demand that far outstrips supply.
17. Basque Coast — Biarritz, Saint-Jean-de-Luz & Hossegor
Perfectly poised between the Pyrenees and the Atlantic Ocean, Biarritz has not just the prestige of the oceanfront but also an authentic up-country. The charm of Saint-Jean-de-Luz is largely due to its imposing townhouses on the beachfront and its majestic Neo-Basque villas. Hossegor enchants with its sandy beaches, its salt-water lake and its forest.
18. Provence — Aix, Alpilles & Luberon, Sanary, Marseille, Cassis
Provence offers a diversity of exceptional micro-markets. Aix-en-Provence stands out for its dynamism and incomparable quality of life. The Alpilles and Luberon attract an international clientele in search of refinement and preserved nature. Marseille, Cassis and Sanary offer a Mediterranean alternative. Noteworthy for 2024: the emergence of very high-end properties in Sanary at prices almost on par with the top Cote d'Azur destinations.
19. Ile de Re, France
The Ile de Re is undoubtedly one of the jewels of the French coastline. Located opposite the historic port of La Rochelle and linked to the mainland by a bridge since 1988, it has become synonymous with understated elegance. Its proximity to La Rochelle airport and train station makes it particularly accessible from Paris, Brussels and London. There has never been a downturn in the market.
20. Malaga & Marbella, Spain
Malaga and Marbella represent one of the most spectacular progressions in the BARNES City Index 2025, gaining 12 places. The Costa del Sol confirms its premium positioning, with prices comparable to the Cote d'Azur and demand driven by buyers from over 60 nationalities. Luxury properties continue to generate solid rental incomes and capital appreciation.