Tarn-et-Garonne is a department in southwest France with a rich past and cultural heritage. The department is one of the 101 departments in France and was created in November 1808, during the First French Empire under Napoléon I. Its territories were formed from neighbouring areas, with over half of the territory taken from the Lot, over one-third from Haute-Garonne (including Castelsarrasin), and the rest from the Lot-et-Garonne, Gers, and Aveyron departments. The department (number 82) is located in the Occitanie region and borders the departments of Lot, Aveyron, Tarn, Haute-Garonne, Gers and Lot-et-Garonne. It covers an area of 3,718 square kilometres and has a population of approximately 260,000 people.
Picturesque Towns and Villages
Tarn-et-Garonne is renowned for its picturesque and charming market towns and medieval villages, including Najac, Bourg-de-Visa, Montaigu-de-Quercy, Lauzerte, and Parisot. These towns and villages are home to some of the most stunning architectural and historical landmarks, drawing visitors from around the world.
The department is also home to many beautiful natural attractions, including the forests of Grésigne and Sivens, the Aveyron Gorges, the Quercy Hills, and the Garonne River, which offers excellent opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping and water sports.
Accessing Tarn-et-Garonne
The area is relatively easily reachable from the main city of Toulouse, which can be reached in around 75 minutes via the A20 motorway. The nearest airports are Toulouse Blagnac and Rodez, further up the road. Overall, Tarn-et-Garonne is a fantastic destination for anyone exploring southwest France's cultural heritage and stunning scenery.
Key Information about Tarn-et-Garonne (82)
- Main City/Prefecture: Montauban
- Nearest Airport: Toulouse-Blagnac Airport
- Population: Around 260,000 (as of the latest census)
- Area: 3,717 sq. kilometres and 1,435 sq. miles
- Landmark: Place Nationale in Montauban, a charming square surrounded by arcades.
- Number of Tourists/Year: Approx. 1 million, enjoying its scenic waterways, markets and historic towns.
Why Buy a Property in Tarn-et-Garonne?
Tarn-et-Garonne, situated between the Garonne River and the Quercy hills, is a region where history seamlessly merges with countryside charm. It features charming bastide towns and villages reflecting a timeless French lifestyle in a peaceful setting.
Property Types in Tarn-et-Garonne
Tarn-et-Garonne's diverse property market offers charming stone houses, family villas, traditional cottages, bastides, mansions, villas, and modern homes. Villages like Auvillar and Lauzerte boast scenic views, while Montauban provides urban options. Ideal for authentic charm, space, and value.
Most Common Types of Properties
- Farmhouses: Traditional rural properties offer spacious living, barns or outbuildings, and land.
- Character homes: Authentic stone houses in picturesque villages like Auvillar, Lauzerte, and Bruniquel, full of original features.
- Manor houses and châteaux: Elegant historic properties and residences on extensive grounds
- Country houses: Spacious family homes in rural areas with gardens and views of the hills.
- Contemporary villas: Modern homes with large gardens and terraces, blending comfort and style.
- Village houses: Traditional homes in lively villages, ideal for year-round living or holidays.
- Bastides: Historic houses in fortified towns with charming arcaded squares and stone facades
- Gîtes and B&Bs: Many properties are well-suited for hospitality, blending lifestyle and income.
Property Prices in Tarn-et-Garonne (82) in 2025
- Houses: the average price per sq. metre: €2,042 (source: Le Figaro - October 2025)
- Apartments: average price per sq. metre: €1,843 (source: Le Figaro - October 2025)
- Price trends: +5% over the last 12 months, +30% over the last 5 years (Le Figaro)
2025 House Prices in the Main Towns in Tarn-et-Garonne
- Average House Price near Montauban: €2,117 per sq. metre
- Average House Price near Moissac: €1,459 per sq. metre
- Average House Price near Caussade: €1,836 per sq. metre
(source: Le Figaro - October 2025)
Find Your Dream Lifestyle in Tarn-et-Garonne
- Affordable Serenity: Tarn-et-Garonne offers stone farmhouses and maisons de caractère, often 30–40% cheaper than in Dordogne or the Lot, ideal for budget buyers seeking a peaceful rural life with Toulouse nearby.
- Rising Potential: With tourists exploring Moissac’s UNESCO abbey, the Canal des Deux Mers bike path, and local foodie trails, properties here generate 5–7% yields, especially for holiday lets near Auvillar or in the countryside.
- Strategic Location: Toulouse Airport, A20 motorway, and proximity to the Lot Valley make it ideal for second-home owners and those seeking a quiet base near lively cities.
- Sunny Climate: Hot summers (30°C+), ideal for river swimming, vineyard strolls, and local markets, and mild winters (5–10°C).
- Genuine Lifestyle: A region of unspoiled traditions with armagnac tastings, marchés au gras, and village fêtes. Life combines rural simplicity, gastronomy, and a warm community spirit.
If you are looking for a property in Tarn-et-Garonne, please contact us to discuss your search criteria.