Once seen as the most unpopular French leader in his country's modern history, President Francois Hollande, is getting a major boost in popularity following his response to the terror attacks that shook the nation.

A poll for Paris Match magazine asked, "'Do you approve or disapprove of the actions of Francois Hollande as president?"

Mr Hollande's rating jumped an unprecedented 21 percentage points - from 19% in December to 40% - after the three days of attacks that began January 7 and left 20 people dead, including three gunmen. Fifty-nine per cent still disapproved.

Approval of prime minister Manuel Valls rose to 61% in the same survey.