House sitting has become a popular and rewarding way for travelers to experience different cultures, live like locals, and enjoy the comforts of a home away from home.
With its diverse landscapes, rich history, and vibrant cultures, house sitting Europe is a good option for those seeking unique and immersive travel experiences.
In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the best countries and regions to find house sitting jobs in Europe, each offering its a particular charm and appeal.
How To Find The Best House Sitting Jobs In Europe
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If you’re looking to learn more about what house sitters do and the best places for house sitting jobs in Europe specifically, I’ve got you covered. It’s all about timing!
Since Europe is a huge tourist destination that has been popular for centuries, so much of life is built around summer when visitors flood in.
If you’re looking to house sit in Europe for the summer, it might be more challenging but possible. If you are flexible on what country and region you want to visit, you’ll be more likely to find success matching up with someone in need of a house sitter.
I recommend using an online platform like Trustedhousesitters because it makes it way easier to contact a lot of people quickly. They have a feature where you can set your specific dates to filter house sits, so you don’t waste time going to lots of house sitting profiles just to see that the times won’t work for you.
They also have a map feature to see the different stays available within each country. In general, my advice for success while house sitting in Europe would be to look for house sitting jobs in northern Europe during the summer.
Many Europeans in the north want to go on holiday during the summer in the south, so you might find more availability there. Contrarily, try house sitting jobs in southern Europe during the winter, spring, or fall.
Top Destinations For House Sitting In Europe
Though I spoke about how important timing is, there is also a huge factor that you should know. A majority of house sitting jobs in Europe are located in western and northern Europe.
These tend to be “wealthier” countries that have a bit more development and infrastructure which probably has a lot to do with this. If you sign up for Trustedhousesitters, it’s not like you won’t be able to find some house sits in Eastern Europe or the Balkans, but they are not as plentiful for sure.
In some ways, this makes sense though because a huge motivator for becoming a housesitter is to save on accommodation costs.
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1. United Kingdom – Countryside Retreats & Historic Homes
Everything from charming cottages to sleek city flats in London, the UK has it all. The United Kingdom provides a wide range of house-sitting opportunities, from quaint countryside cottages to stately homes.
Explore the Cotswolds’ picturesque landscapes, the Scottish Highlands‘ rugged beauty, the historic charm of English villages, or the dramatic coast of Northern Ireland.
The UK offers a perfect blend of tradition, modernity, and most importantly a lot of house sitting jobs! They have the most gigs on the continent so if you are looking for something immediately, they could be your best bet.
2. Switzerland – Alpine Retreats & Waterfalls
Switzerland, nestled in the heart of the Alps, provides house sitters with breathtaking landscapes and a high quality of life.
Care for a chalet in the Swiss Alps or a lakeside residence near Geneva. Switzerland offers not only natural beauty but also a sense of tranquility and precision that defines the Swiss way of life.
3. Ireland – Emerald Isles & Warm Hospitality
Ireland, with its lush green landscapes and warm hospitality, is an ideal destination for house sitters seeking a relaxed yet vibrant experience.
From the rugged beauty of the Wild Atlantic Way to the foodie haven of Cork, Ireland offers diverse opportunities. Care for a cozy cottage in the countryside and immerse yourself in the Irish way of life.
4. France – A Tapestry Of Experiences
France, known for its picturesque countryside, historic cities, and delectable cuisine, is a top choice for house sitters. The Provence region, with its lavender fields and charming villages, is particularly sought after.
The French Riviera offers a glamorous lifestyle, while rural areas provide tranquility and a chance to savor the slow pace of life.
5. Germany: Blend of Tradition and Modernity
Germany, with its blend of rich history and modern innovation, provides enticing house-sitting prospects. The Bavarian Alps offer stunning natural beauty, while cities like Berlin and Munich provide vibrant urban experiences.
Care for a charming half-timbered house in the Black Forest or a contemporary apartment in Berlin for a taste of German diversity.
6. Netherlands: Canals, Windmills, & Quaint Villages
The Netherlands, renowned for its picturesque canals, windmills, and tulip fields, is a house-sitter’s dream.
Amsterdam’s historic houses offer a unique experience, while the countryside showcases charming villages and expansive flower fields. Enjoy the Dutch lifestyle by caring for a house in the heart of this culturally rich country.
7. Spain – Sun, Siestas, and Diverse Landscapes
Spain’s diverse regions offer unique house-sitting opportunities. The Costa del Sol is perfect for those seeking sun-drenched days, while the historic cities of Barcelona and Seville provide a vibrant urban experience.
The Spanish countryside, with its olive groves and vineyards, offers a peaceful escape.
8. Portugal: Charming Villages and Coastal Retreats
Portugal, with its friendly locals and stunning landscapes, is emerging as a popular house-sitting destination.
The Algarve region, known for its beautiful beaches, and the Douro Valley, famous for its vineyards, provide diverse experiences. Portugal offers a relaxed pace of life and a warm welcome to house sitters.
House Sitting In Europe – Honorable Mentions
As I mentioned earlier, there are many great places for house sitting in Europe, but it just hasn’t caught on yet. Here are a few of the regions or countries that lack in house sitting jobs but would still make for a great destination – plus it’s not completely impossible to get something.
For those drawn to the allure of fjords, northern lights, and clean, crisp air, Scandinavia is a house-sitter’s paradise.
Norway, Sweden, Denmark, and Finland boast not only stunning natural beauty but also well-designed, modern homes. Experience the unique Nordic lifestyle while surrounded by breathtaking landscapes.
10. Greece: Islands of Paradise
House sitting in Greece opens doors to the idyllic islands – some of which are popular but there are plenty of less touristy places as well.
Imagine caring for a traditional whitewashed villa with views of the turquoise Aegean Sea. Greece offers a unique blend of ancient history, delicious cuisine, and a laid-back island lifestyle.
11. Italy – The Land Of La Dolce Vita
From the rolling hills of Tuscany to the sun-soaked Amalfi Coast, Italy beckons house sitters with its diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage.
Imagine caring for a villa surrounded by vineyards or overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. Italy offers a taste of “la dolce vita” that is hard to resist.
10 Best Tips For House Sitting Europe
Here are a few extra tips that might be able to help you as you house sit in Europe. Each house sitting job will be different, but these should help you make a good impression and leave on good terms.
Create A Standout Profile
Make your house-sitting profile compelling by highlighting your experience, reliability, and love for pets.
Include references, a clear photo, and a well-written description of yourself. A standout profile increases your chances of securing desirable house-sitting assignments.
Start Early & Be Flexible
Begin your search for house-sitting opportunities well in advance, especially during peak travel seasons. Being flexible with your dates and destinations increases your chances of finding the perfect match.
Consider exploring off-the-beaten-path locations for unique experiences. This is why house sitting is perfect for slow travel!
Build A Strong Online Presence
Join reputable house-sitting platforms (like Trustedhousesitters) and build a strong online presence.
Actively engage with the community, attend meet-ups, and gather recommendations. This not only enhances your credibility but also expands your network for future opportunities.
Communication Is Key
Establish clear communication with homeowners from the beginning. Clarify expectations, responsibilities, and any specific requirements.
Regular updates during the house-sitting period can build trust and reassure homeowners that their homes and pets are in good hands.
Understand Local Customs & Norms
Familiarize yourself with the local customs and norms of the region you’ll be house sitting in. This cultural awareness ensures a seamless integration into the community and helps you navigate day-to-day activities with ease.
Prepare For Pet Care
If your house-sitting assignment involves caring for pets (most will), ensure you are well-prepared. Familiarize yourself with the pets’ routines, dietary needs, and any medical requirements.
A happy and healthy pet ensures a positive reference for future opportunities. Bonus tip: Go the extra mile and bring some extra treats or toys from Petco!
Respect The Property
Treat the homeowner’s property with the utmost respect. Follow any guidelines provided by the homeowners regarding house rules, maintenance, and security. Leave the home in the same (or better) condition than you found it.
Stay Connected With Homeowners
Maintain open lines of communication with homeowners throughout the house-sitting period. Provide regular updates, especially if anything unexpected arises. This transparency fosters trust and ensures a positive experience for both parties.
Be Resourceful & Independent
House-sitting often involves problem-solving and adaptability. Be resourceful in handling unexpected situations and demonstrate your ability to be independent. This will reassure homeowners that you can handle any challenges that may arise.
Leave A Thoughtful Thank You
As you conclude your house-sitting job in Europe, leave a thoughtful thank-you note expressing your gratitude. Consider small gestures like restocking essentials, leaving a tidy home, or sharing your favorite local recommendations.
A positive and considerate departure increases your chances of receiving positive references for future opportunities.
House Sitting Jobs In Europe – Final Thoughts
Getting house-sitting jobs in Europe allows you to live like a local, experience diverse cultures, and create lasting memories.
Whether you’re drawn to the sun-soaked coasts of Italy, the historic charm of the UK, or the tranquility of the Scandinavian wilderness, there are plenty of opportunities for house sitting in Europe.
So, pack your bags, explore the possibilities, and make your next European adventure one to remember!
Check out these awesome work exchanges in Barcelona, London, Scotland, France, Italy & Hawaii!
