Guide to Vienne & Property for Sale in Department 86

Discover Vienne - Houses & Lifestyle in Vienne

Vienne is a department located in the western part of France's Nouvelle-Aquitaine region. Named after the Vienne River that runs through it, the department covers 6,990 square kilometers. It borders Maine-et-Loire to the northwest, Indre-et-Loire to the north, Indre to the east, Haute-Vienne to the southeast, Charente to the south, and Deux-Sèvres to the west. Vienne features a varied natural landscape and the Vienne River, a Loire tributary, which is a central feature of the area. The department also includes several natural parks, such as Parc Naturel Régional de la Brenne, a popular spot for bird enthusiasts.

Historical Significance

Vienne is one of the original 83 departments of France, established in 1790 during the French Revolution. It was created from parts of the former provinces of Poitou, Touraine and Berry. The prefecture city of the Vienne is Poitiers, a beautiful city with a history and culture.

Culinary Delights

Apart from its scenic beauty and rich past, the Vienne is also known for its delicious goat cheese. Goat cheese making is an essential industry in the Vienne, and the department is home to several small-scale cheese producers.

UNESCO Heritage

One of Vienne's UNESCO World Heritage sites is the Abbey Church of St-Savin-sur-Gartempe. This Romanesque church is famous for its frescoes, which adorn its walls and ceilings. The church is a must-visit for anyone interested in art and history.

Key Information about the Vienne (86)

• Main City/Prefecture: Poitiers
• Nearest Airport: Poitiers-Biard Airport
• Population: Around 438,000 (as of the latest census)
• Area: 6,990 sq. kilometres and 2,699 sq. miles
• Landmark: Futuroscope, a futuristic theme park offering immersive and innovative experiences.
• Number of Tourists/Year: Approx. 2.5 million, drawn by the theme park, Romanesque architecture and wine trails.

Property Prices in Vienne in 2026

• Houses: the average price per sq. metre: €1,792 (April 2026)
• Apartments: the average price per sq. metre: €2,601 (April 2026)
• Price trends: –1% over the last 12 months, +33% over the last 5 years (April 2026)

House Prices in the Main Towns in Vienne in 2025

• Average House Price in Poitiers: €1,991 per sq. metre (April 2026)
• Average House Price in Châtellerault: (estimate) €1,582 per sq. metre (April 2026)
• Average House Price in Buxerolles: (estimate) €2,074 per sq. metre (April 2026)

(source: Le Figaro)

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