Discover the allure of the French Riviera, where sun-kissed beaches meet glamorous cities along the Mediterranean coast. From the film festival buzz of Cannes to the old-town charm of Antibes, and the opulence of Monaco to the laid-back vibe of St. Tropez, this guide will help you find the perfect place to stay. Explore iconic spots like Nice’s Promenade des Anglais, indulge in luxury hotels with private beaches, or opt for charming boutique accommodations in picturesque towns like Èze and Menton. Whether you’re drawn to world-class art galleries, yacht-filled harbors, or the best beaches for soaking up the Côte d’Azur sun, the French Riviera offers endless possibilities. Time your visit for events like the Cannes Film Festival or Monaco Grand Prix, or enjoy quieter seasons to fully appreciate the region’s natural beauty and cultural riches. With tips on getting around, the best times to visit, and top places to see, you’ll be ready to experience the riviera chic that makes this part of France truly unforgettable.
Our Pick of the Best Hotels in French Riviera 💎:
- 💎 Luxury Hotel: Hôtel Hermitage Monte-Carlo
- ✨ 5-Star: Five Seas Hotel Cannes
- 🏨 4-Star: Hotel Renoir
- 🛏 3-Star: Hotel Massena
- 💸 Cheap: Hotel Trocadero
- 🏢 Apartment: Bright & Modern Apartment in the Heart of Antibes
- 👨👩👧👦 For Families: Royal Antibes - Luxury Hotel, Résidence, Beach & Spa
- 🏩 For Couples: Hotel Byblos Saint-Tropez
Quick Guide on Best Place to Stay in French Riviera ☀️:
- 🎨 For Cultural Immersion: Nice
- 🌟 For Glamour and Beaches: Cannes
- 🥂 For Celebrity Spotting and Nightlife: Saint-Tropez
- 🏰 For History Buffs and Art Lovers: Antibes
- 💎 For Luxury and Grand Prix Excitement: Monaco
1. Nice – The Heart of the Côte d’Azur
🌊 Iconic promenade: I always start my French Riviera experience with a walk along Nice’s famous Promenade des Anglais. The Mediterranean Sea sparkles to one side, while Belle Époque architecture lines the other. It’s the perfect introduction to the Riviera’s blend of natural beauty and historic charm.
🏘️ Charming labyrinth: Vieux Nice (Old Town) is a maze of narrow streets and colorful buildings that I can’t resist exploring. The scent of socca (chickpea pancakes) wafts from local eateries, and the vibrant Cours Saleya market is a feast for the senses.
🎨 Artistic haven: Nice is a cultural powerhouse. I recommend visiting the Matisse Museum, housed in a stunning 17th-century villa, and the Modern and Contemporary Art Museum for a dose of avant-garde creativity.
🏰 Panoramic perfection: For the best panorama of Nice and the Baie des Anges, I always climb (or take the elevator) to Castle Hill. The views are breathtaking, especially at sunset.
🕵️ Hidden treasures: Here’s a list of some lesser-known spots I love in Nice:
- Monastère de Cimiez and its beautiful gardens
- The Russian Orthodox Cathedral, an unexpected architectural gem
- Parc Phoenix, a botanical garden with over 2,500 plant species
- Le Petit Marais, a trendy neighborhood with great boutiques
- Plage de la Réserve, a quieter alternative to the main beaches
Where to stay in Nice? 🏠
⭐ Best hotels in Nice
- Boscolo Nice Hotel & Spa – A luxurious 5-star hotel with a prime location, perfect for exploring the French Riviera’s best attractions.
- Le Meridien Nice – Situated on the Promenade des Anglais, offering stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea and easy access to the beach.
- Hôtel Apollinaire Nice – A boutique hotel in the city center, ideal for those who want to enjoy the best of Nice’s cultural offerings.
🏨 Best Moderate Hotels in Nice
- Hotel Massena – A comfortable hotel near the train station, making it easy to get around the French Riviera.
- Hotel Lafayette – Located in a pretty town area, offering a longer stay option for those exploring the cities and towns of the French Riviera.
- Ibis Styles Nice Centre Gare – Close to public transport, perfect for day trips to nearby coastal towns like Eze or Menton.
🛏️ Best Hostels in Nice
- Hotel Trocadero – A budget-friendly option for those looking to enjoy beach time and explore the best beaches nearby.
- Hotel Le Pante – Located in the heart of Nice, it’s a great base for a trip to the French Riviera.
- Hotel Commodore – Offers good value for those wanting to stay in the area and explore the South of France.
2. Cannes – Glitz, Glamour, and Golden Beaches
🌴 Celebrity central: Cannes’ famous boulevard, La Croisette, is where I go to soak in the Riviera glamour. Lined with luxury hotels, designer boutiques, and palm trees, it’s the essence of Côte d’Azur chic.
🏰 Historic heights: I love wandering through Le Suquet, Cannes’ old town. Its winding cobblestone streets lead to the top of the hill, where the views of the bay and the Lérins Islands are spectacular.
🎬 Red carpet magic: Even if you’re not here during the Cannes Film Festival, the Palais des Festivals is worth a visit. I always snap a photo on the famous red carpet steps – it’s a quintessential Cannes experience.
⛵ Island getaways: A short boat ride takes you to the Lérins Islands. Île Sainte-Marguerite, with its fortress and beaches, is perfect for a day trip. The smaller Île Saint-Honorat, home to monks producing excellent wine, is a peaceful retreat.
🎭 Cultural gems: Don’t miss these Cannes attractions:
- La Malmaison art center
- Marché Forville for local produce and flowers
- Villa Rothschild, a stunning Belle Époque mansion
- Le Petit Juas neighborhood for a local vibe
- La Croix-des-Gardes forest for hiking trails with sea views
Where to stay in Cannes? 🏠
⭐ Best Hotels in Cannes
- Hotel Renoir – A chic 4-star hotel just steps away from La Croisette, perfect for those looking to stay in the French Riviera in style.
- Five Seas Hotel Cannes – This luxurious 5-star hotel offers a rooftop pool with stunning views of the Mediterranean, making it one of the 12 best places to stay along the French Riviera.
- Hôtel Barrière Le Majestic Cannes – An iconic palace hotel on La Croisette, offering a true Côte d’Azur experience with its private beach and proximity to the Palais des Festivals.
🏨 Best Moderate Hotels in Cannes
- Hôtel Barrière Le Gray d'Albion – A 4-star hotel with a private beach, ideal for those who want to explore the French and Italian Riviera cities.
- Hotel Splendid Cannes – Located in the heart of Cannes, this hotel offers great value for those looking to visit the French Riviera without breaking the bank.
- Old Town Apartment – A charming apartment in the old town, perfect for a longer stay and exploring Cannes like a local.
🛏️ Best Hostels in Cannes
- Hotel L'Hotera & Sauna – A budget-friendly option with a sauna, great for those who want to experience the French Riviera on a tight budget.
- Hôtel L'Esterel – Located near the train station, it’s an excellent base for day trips to nearby towns like Menton or Cap Ferrat.
- Hôtel Hoche – A simple yet comfortable hotel, perfect for budget-conscious travelers wanting to explore the seaside towns along the French Riviera.
3. Saint-Tropez – Riviera’s Chic Coastal Retreat
⚓ Yacht spotting: The harbor is the heart of Saint-Tropez, and I never tire of admiring the luxurious yachts moored here. Grab a café at one of the portside terraces for prime people-watching.
🏖️ Celeb beach: This famous stretch of sand is where the jet-set come to play. I recommend arriving early to secure a spot at one of the trendy beach clubs like Club 55 or Nikki Beach.
🖼️ Artistic break: The Musée de l’Annonciade houses an impressive collection of post-impressionist art. It’s a refreshing cultural break from the beach scene.
🏘️ Nostalgic quarter: I love getting lost in the narrow streets of La Ponche, the old fishing quarter. It’s a charming reminder of Saint-Tropez’s humble origins before Brigitte Bardot put it on the map.
🕵️ Off-the-beaten-path: Check out these lesser-known spots:
- Chapelle Sainte-Anne for panoramic views
- Les Graniers beach for a quieter seaside experience
- Place des Lices market on Tuesdays and Saturdays
- La Maison des Papillons, a unique butterfly museum
- Sentier du Littoral coastal path for stunning walks
Where to stay in Saint-Tropez? 🏠
⭐ Best Hotels in Saint-Tropez
- La Bastide de Saint Tropez – A luxurious retreat just minutes from the sandy beaches, offering a perfect blend of Provençal charm and modern amenities.
- Hôtel de Paris Saint-Tropez – Located in the heart of Saint-Tropez, this hotel is one of the best places to visit for those seeking a glamorous French Riviera experience.
- Hotel Byblos Saint-Tropez – An iconic hotel that’s been a favorite of the jet set since the 1960s, offering unparalleled luxury and a prime location.
🏨 Best Moderate Hotels in Saint-Tropez
- La Bastide du Port – A charming hotel near the port, perfect for those who want to explore the town and enjoy the coastal atmosphere.
- Le Mandala – A boutique hotel offering a more intimate experience, ideal for those looking to escape the crowds.
- Hôtel Le Mouillage – A comfortable option close to the beach, great for travelers who want to enjoy the sun and sea.
🛏️ Best Hostels in Saint-Tropez
- Les Lauriers – A cozy guesthouse offering affordable rooms in the heart of Saint-Tropez.
- B Lodge – A modern, budget-friendly option perfect for younger travelers looking to experience the Saint-Tropez lifestyle.
- Apartment in the Heart of Saint-Tropez – A self-catering option for those who prefer a home-away-from-home experience.
4. Antibes – Where Picasso Met the Mediterranean
🎨 Picasso’s muse: The Picasso Museum in Château Grimaldi is a must-visit. I’m always moved by the connection between Picasso’s work and the light and landscape of Antibes.
🚶♂️ Coastal trails: A drive or walk around Cap d’Antibes reveals some of the Riviera’s most stunning coastal scenery. The Sentier du Littoral trail offers breathtaking views of the Mediterranean.
🏰 Medieval maze: I love strolling through the old town, with its 16th-century ramparts and the bustling Marché Provençal. It’s the perfect place to sample local specialties like socca and pissaladière.
🏖️ Beach variety: From the sandy stretches of Juan-les-Pins to the hidden coves of the Cap, Antibes has a beach for everyone. My favorite is the secluded Plage de la Garoupe.
🕵️ Local secrets: Don’t miss these Antibes gems:
- Fort Carré, a 16th-century star-shaped fort
- Absinthe Bar for a taste of the “green fairy”
- Exflora Park, a tranquil Roman-inspired garden
- Safranier, a charming free commune within Antibes
- Garoupe lighthouse for panoramic views
Where to stay in Antibes? 🏠
⭐ Best Hotels in Antibes
- Hôtel La Villa Port d'Antibes & Spa – A luxurious 4-star hotel with a spa, perfect for those looking to indulge in the French Riviera lifestyle.
- Bright & Modern Apartment in the Heart of Antibes – A chic apartment offering a home-away-from-home experience in the center of Antibes.
- Royal Antibes - Luxury Hotel, Résidence, Beach & Spa – An upscale beachfront hotel with stunning views of the Mediterranean, ideal for a luxurious Côte d’Azur getaway.
🏨 Best Moderate Hotels in Antibes
- Hôtel Le Relais du Postillon – A charming hotel in the heart of old Antibes, offering great value for those wanting to explore the town’s history.
- Hôtel Josse – A comfortable hotel near the beach, perfect for those who want to enjoy the coast without breaking the bank.
- Appartement Loft Vieil Antibes – A cozy loft apartment in the old town, ideal for budget-conscious travelers who want to immerse themselves in local life.
🛏️ Best Hostels in Antibes
- Bohobos Hostel – A vibrant hostel offering affordable accommodation and a great atmosphere for meeting fellow travelers.
- Hacienda Hostel Antibes – A laid-back hostel with a garden, perfect for backpackers exploring the French Riviera on a budget.
- Nid Douillet sur la Côte d'Azur – A cozy guesthouse offering a more personal touch for budget travelers.
5. Monaco – Glamour and Royalty on the Riviera
🎰 Bond-worthy opulence: Even if you’re not a gambler, the Monte Carlo Casino is a must-see. I always feel like I’ve stepped into a James Bond film when I visit this opulent Belle Époque masterpiece.
👑 Royal spectacle: Watching the changing of the guard at the Prince’s Palace is a time-honored tradition. I recommend arriving early to get a good spot for this daily spectacle.
🐠 Underwater marvels: Perched on a cliff, this museum is as impressive outside as it is inside. The aquarium is world-class, and the rooftop offers stunning views of the Mediterranean.
🏎️ Racing thrills: If you’re here during the Monaco Grand Prix, the atmosphere is electric. Even outside race weekend, you can walk the famous circuit through the streets of Monaco.
🕵️ Hidden Monaco: Here are some lesser-known Monaco experiences:
- Japanese Gardens for a moment of zen
- Larvotto Beach for a dip in Monégasque waters
- Les Grands Apartments du Palais for royal opulence
- Monaco Cathedral, the resting place of Grace Kelly
- Fort Antoine, an 18th-century fortress turned theater
Where to stay in Monaco? 🏠
⭐ Best Hotels in Monaco
- Hôtel Hermitage Monte-Carlo – A Belle Époque masterpiece offering breathtaking views of the Mediterranean. It’s best to time your visit during the Monaco Grand Prix for an unforgettable experience.
- Fairmont Monte Carlo – This luxurious hotel is part of the French Riviera’s iconic skyline, perfect for those who want to explore the Côte d’Azur in style.
- Port Palace – Overlooking the famous Port Hercule, this hotel offers a prime location for yacht-watching and exploring Monaco’s attractions.
🏨 Best Moderate Hotels in Monaco
- Monaco Premium Suites – Offering apartment-style accommodations, perfect for longer stays to fully explore the French Riviera.
- Monte Carlo View – A more affordable option with stunning views, great for those who want to experience Monaco without breaking the bank.
- Hôtel Olympia – Located in Beausoleil, just across the border from Monaco, offering a budget-friendly base to explore the region.
🛏️ Best Hostels in Monaco
- Résidence Pierre & Vacances Premium Julia Augusta – An apartment-style residence in Roquebrune-Cap-Martin, perfect for budget travelers wanting to explore Monaco and the surrounding area.
- Hypercentre Monaco 5mn à pied – A cozy apartment just a short walk from Monaco, ideal for those who want to save on accommodation while staying close to the action.
- Charmant studio rénové 150m de Monaco – A renovated studio apartment close to Monaco, offering a more local experience.
FAQs about Where to Stay in French Riviera ❔
What is the best way to travel along the French Riviera?
The most convenient and scenic way is by train. The regional TER trains connect most major towns along the coast quickly and affordably.
What is the most picturesque town in the French Riviera?
This is subjective, but many consider Èze to be the most picturesque, with its medieval hilltop village and stunning sea views. Other top contenders include Villefranche-sur-Mer and Menton.
Is Nice, France a walkable city?
Yes, Nice is very walkable, especially the old town (Vieux Nice) and areas along the Promenade des Anglais. Most major attractions are within walking distance of each other.
How long to stay in french riviera?
Ideally, 5-7 days allows you to explore the main towns and attractions without rushing. This gives you time to visit Nice, Cannes, Monaco, and some smaller villages. However, even 3-4 days can provide a good taste of the region.
