Every year, as summer fades and the leaves start to change, Europe’s vineyards come alive with activity. The grape harvest season is one of the most important times of the year for winemakers, and they rely heavily on seasonal workers to pick, sort, and prepare grapes for wine production.
For 2025, many vineyards in countries like France, Italy, Spain, and Portugal are offering free housing and, in some cases, meals to attract foreign workers. This is a golden opportunity for travelers, students, and job seekers looking for short-term work in Europe with low living costs and a chance to immerse themselves in local culture.
Why Vineyards Hire Foreign Workers
The grape harvest is short but intense, usually lasting 4 to 6 weeks depending on the region and climate. Local labor often isn’t enough to meet the demand, so vineyards recruit seasonal workers from all over the world. Offering free housing is a way to make these jobs more attractive, especially for workers coming from abroad.
Countries Offering Grape Harvest Jobs in 2025
1. France
Regions like Bordeaux, Champagne, and Burgundy are famous for their vineyards. France offers some of the highest seasonal wages in Europe for grape pickers.
- Average pay: €10–€12/hour
- Extra perks: Meals, wine tastings, and cultural events
2. Italy
From Tuscany to Sicily, Italian vineyards need seasonal workers every year.
- Average pay: €8–€11/hour
- Extra perks: Accommodation in farmhouses, shared meals, wine discounts
3. Spain
La Rioja and Catalonia are top destinations for grape picking jobs.
- Average pay: €7–€10/hour
- Extra perks: Free housing, meals, and sometimes transportation
4. Portugal
The Douro Valley is famous for its port wine production.
- Average pay: €6–€9/hour
- Extra perks: Free lodging and traditional Portuguese meals
Types of Work You Can Expect
Grape harvest jobs are mostly manual labor, but there’s a range of roles:
- Picking grapes in the fields
- Sorting grapes for quality
- Transporting baskets to processing areas
- Cleaning and maintaining equipment
- Helping in the winery during fermentation
Skills and Requirements
Most vineyards don’t require formal qualifications, but you should have:
- Good physical fitness (harvest work is labor-intensive)
- Ability to work outdoors in varying weather
- Basic teamwork skills
- Willingness to live in rural areas during the season
Knowledge of the local language is helpful but not always required — many vineyards hire international teams.
Related: Top 7 Countries Offering Work Visas in Under 30 Days
Salaries and Benefits
Salaries vary by country and vineyard, but seasonal workers can expect:
- Weekly pay: €350–€500
- Free housing for the entire contract period
- Meals included (in many vineyards)
- Overtime pay during peak harvest days
Some vineyards also offer completion bonuses for workers who stay until the end of the season.
Visa Sponsorship and Work Permits
- EU Citizens: Can work freely in EU countries without a visa.
- Non-EU Citizens: Some countries offer short-term work permits for seasonal agriculture. Employers may assist with the application process.
- For 2025, France, Italy, and Spain have simplified seasonal work permit procedures to attract more foreign labor.
How to Apply for Grape Harvest Jobs in Europe
- Research vineyards in your preferred country and region.
- Prepare a CV highlighting any outdoor, farm, or teamwork experience.
- Apply early — most vineyards start hiring 3–6 months before harvest.
- Use seasonal job boards and local agricultural employment agencies.
- Be flexible with location and dates — vineyards hire in waves depending on ripening times.
Life During the Harvest Season
Living and working on a vineyard can be physically demanding but deeply rewarding. Workers often live together in shared houses or dormitories, eat meals together, and get to experience local culture firsthand. Many people return year after year for the friendships, the food, and the chance to explore Europe on their days off.
Related: High-Paying Visa Sponsorship Jobs You Can Apply for in 2025 Without a Degree
Final Thoughts
Seasonal grape harvest jobs in Europe with free housing are perfect for those seeking adventure, cultural immersion, and a way to earn money while traveling. With the 2025 harvest season approaching, now is the best time to start looking for opportunities. Whether you choose the rolling hills of Tuscany or the scenic vineyards of Bordeaux, the experience will be one you’ll never forget.