Guide to Yvelines and Property in Department 78

Yvelines is a department located on the western outskirts of Paris, situated in the Île-de-France region. It is a highly sought-after residential area for those who work in the capital and prefer a peaceful environment. The department has several major cities, including Versailles, Saint-Germain-en-Laye, Mantes-la-Jolie, and Rambouillet, which are popular among both residents and tourists. One of Yvelines' most notable features is its vast green space. The department is home to the Forest of Rambouillet, the second-largest protected forest in France, covering nearly 30,000 hectares. The region is also popular for outdoor activities such as cycling, walking, and high-tech geocaching…

Yvelines is a department located on the western outskirts of Paris, situated in the Île-de-France region. It is a highly sought-after residential area for those who work in the capital and prefer a peaceful environment. The department has several major cities, including Versailles, Saint-Germain-en-Laye, Mantes-la-Jolie, and Rambouillet, which are popular among both residents and tourists. One of Yvelines' most notable features is its vast green space. The department is home to the Forest of Rambouillet, the second-largest protected forest in France, covering nearly 30,000 hectares. The region is also popular for outdoor activities such as cycling, walking, and high-tech geocaching treasure hunts, making it an ideal destination for adventure seekers.

A Golfer's Paradise in Saint-Nom-la-Bretèche

La Tuilerie-Bignon, one of France's most renowned golf courses, is situated in Saint-Nom-la-Bretèche, a desirable village in the Yvelines department. Established in the 1950s, the course has been home to the prestigious Lancôme Trophy for 34 years and has hosted the French Open three times in 1965, 1969 and 1984.

Natural Splendour and Cultural Heritage

Yvelines has two popular regional parks, the Haute Vallée de Chevreuse Park and the Vexin Français Park, both ideal for nature lovers. The department is also home to numerous medieval villages, castles, and churches, offering a glimpse into France's rich cultural heritage.

An Attractive Move to Yvelines

If you are planning to move to Yvelines, there are several cities to consider, including Versailles, a popular tourist destination attracting thousands of visitors each year. The city is famous for its 17th-century Palace of Versailles, with its 2,300 rooms and an intriguing history. Investing in Yvelines can generate high rental incomes and stabilise property prices.

Other towns you can consider moving to in Yvelines include St Germain-en-Laye and Le Vésinet, which are vibrant and picturesque. These towns are popular among expats and have excellent nurseries and schools, making them ideal for families with children.

Key Information about the Yvelines (78)

• Main City/Prefecture: Versailles
• Nearest Airport: Paris-Orly Airport
• Population: Around 1.44 million (as of the latest census)
• Area: 2,284 sq. kilometres and 882 sq. miles
• Landmark: Château de Versailles, the grand palace of Louis XIV and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Number of Tourists/Year: Approx. 8 million, drawn by Versailles Palace, royal history and scenic countryside.

Property Prices in the Yvelines in 2026

• Houses: the average price per sq. metre: €3,342 (April 2026)
• Apartments: the average price per sq. metre: €4,593 (April 2026)
• Price trends: -1% over the last 12 months, +23% over the last 5 years (Le Figaro - April 2026)

House Prices in the Main Towns in Yvelines in 2026

• Average House Price in Saint‑Germain‑en‑Laye: €6,334 per sq. metre (April 2026)
• Average House Price in Sartrouville: €4,088 per sq. metre (April 2026)
• Average House Price in Versailles: €6,850 per sq. metre (April 2026)

(source: Le Figaro)

Discover additional insights about France with our detailed guide and infographic, filled with intriguing facts and figures.