The French Riviera, also known as the Côte d’Azur, is a stunning stretch of coastline along the Mediterranean Sea that has attracted tourists for decades. Its picturesque towns, beautiful beaches, and mild climate make it a popular destination for those seeking a luxurious and relaxing vacation. If you’re planning a trip to the French Riviera, choosing the right hotel can make all the difference. Here are some factors to consider when selecting a hotel in the area.
Considerations when choosing hotels to stay at:
Location
One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a hotel on the French Riviera is its location. Do you want to be near the beach, or would you prefer a more secluded spot in the hills? Some of the best hotels in the area offer stunning views of the sea or overlook charming towns like Saint-Tropez or Cannes.
Price
The French Riviera is known for its luxury hotels, but there are also many affordable options available. Decide on your budget and look for hotels that fit within it. Remember that prices vary depending on the season, so consider traveling during the off-season if you want a deal.
Amenities
When selecting a hotel, consider the amenities it offers. Do you want a spa or fitness center on-site? How about a pool or a restaurant? Some hotels offer complimentary breakfast or beach access, which can add value to your stay.
Reviews
Before booking a hotel, read reviews from previous guests. Look for comments about cleanliness, service, and the overall experience. Booking.com and other review sites can help you make an informed decision.
Style
The French Riviera is known for its glamour and luxury, so many of the hotels in the area reflect this aesthetic. However, there are also options for those who prefer a more relaxed, Bohemian vibe. Consider the style of the hotel when making your decision.
The Top Hotels
The ten hotels listed here are some of the best in the area, offering stunning views, luxurious amenities, and unique designs. Whether you’re looking for a private beach or a Michelin-starred restaurant, there’s a hotel on this list that will meet your needs. Plan your trip to the French Riviera today and experience the glamour and beauty of this iconic destination.
Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc
Located in Antibes, Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc is a luxurious hotel with stunning sea views. It has a private beach, two pools, and a Michelin-starred restaurant. The hotel has hosted numerous celebrities, including Ernest Hemingway and F. Scott Fitzgerald.
Reasons to choose this hotel:
- Stunning location on the southern tip of the Cap d’Antibes peninsula
- Beautiful gardens and private parkland
- Private beach with crystal clear waters
- Two heated saltwater pools, including one carved into the rocks
- Luxurious rooms and suites with sea views
- Gourmet restaurants and bars, including a Michelin-starred restaurant, spa, and fitness center
- Range of activities, including tennis, watersports, and golf.
- Iconic history and celebrity guests
- Impeccable service and attention to detail.
Château Eza perched on a hilltop in the village of Eze
It offers panoramic views of the French Riviera. The hotel has just 14 rooms, each with a unique design. It also has a gourmet restaurant and a terrace bar.
Reasons to choose this hotel:
- Unique location in the medieval village of Eze, offering stunning views of the French Riviera
- Intimate and luxurious hotel, with only 14 rooms and suites.
- Gourmet restaurant with panoramic views and Michelin-starred cuisine.
- Beautiful terrace and garden for al fresco dining.
- Elegant and individually decorated rooms and suites, some with private balconies and sea views
- Range of spa treatments and wellness services
- Charming and historic building, with a 400-year-old stone façade and winding staircases
- Easy access to local attractions and activities, including beaches, museums, and cultural events
- Impeccable service and attention to detail, focusing on personalized service and guest satisfaction.
Grand-Hôtel du Cap-Ferrat
It is a luxurious hotel with a spa, heated pool, and private beach. The hotel has 74 rooms, including suites with sea views. It also has two restaurants, one of which has two Michelin stars.
Reasons to choose this hotel:
- Spectacular location on the tip of the Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat peninsula, with panoramic views of the Mediterranean
- Beautiful gardens and grounds, with palm trees, flowers, and fountains
- Private beach club with sea views, sun loungers, and watersports
- Heated infinity pool with sea views
- Luxurious rooms and suites with balconies or terraces overlooking the sea or gardens
- Gourmet restaurants and bars, including a Michelin-starred restaurant, and beachside dining
- Spa and wellness center with indoor and outdoor facilities
- Range of activities, including tennis, hiking, and boat trips.
- Elegant and historic building, with a Belle Époque style and contemporary interiors
Hôtel de Paris Saint-Tropez
Located in the heart of Saint-Tropez, Hôtel de Paris Saint-Tropez is a luxurious hotel with a spa, a rooftop pool, and two restaurants. The hotel has 90 rooms and suites, each with a unique design.
Reasons to choose this hotel:
- Impeccable service and attention to detail, focusing on creating personalized and unforgettable experiences.
- Central location in the heart of Saint-Tropez, within walking distance of the harbor and beach
- Contemporary and stylish design, with bright colors, modern art, and playful details
- Rooftop terrace with panoramic views of the town and sea, complete with pool, bar, and restaurant
- Gourmet restaurant with a focus on Mediterranean cuisine and local ingredients
- Range of room types, from cozy classic rooms to spacious suites with terraces and sea views.
- Spa and wellness center with indoor pool, sauna, hammam, and range of treatments
- Complimentary shuttle service to local beaches and attractions
- Pet-friendly policy with exceptional amenities and services for furry friends
- Friendly and attentive service creates a welcoming and relaxing atmosphere for all guests.
La Réserve de Beaulieu & Spa
Located in Beaulieu-sur-Mer, La Réserve de Beaulieu & Spa is a luxurious hotel with a private beach, spa, and outdoor pool. The hotel has 39 rooms, including suites with sea views. It also has two restaurants, one of which has a Michelin star.
Reasons to choose this hotel:
- Elegant and historic building, dating back to 1880, and recently renovated to offer modern amenities and comfort.
- Secluded location on the coast, surrounded by lush gardens and overlooking the sea
- Private beach with loungers, parasols, and watersports
- Heated outdoor pool with sea views and terrace
- Luxurious rooms and suites, some with balconies or terraces and sea views
- Gourmet restaurants and bars, including a Michelin-starred restaurant, and beachside dining
- Spa and wellness center with indoor pool, sauna, hammam, and range of treatments
- Range of activities, including tennis, golf, and boat trips.
- Complimentary shuttle service to local attractions and beaches
- Impeccable service and attention to detail, focusing on creating a welcoming and relaxing atmosphere for all guests.
La Colombe d’Or
La Colombe d’Or is a unique hotel with a rich history. The hotel was originally a restaurant and gathering place for artists, and its walls are adorned with original works by Pablo Picasso, Marc Chagall, and other famous artists. The hotel has 25 rooms and suites, each with a unique design.
Reasons to choose this hotel:
- Unique and historic building, originally a farmhouse and now a hotel and restaurant with a focus on art and culture
- Collection of artworks by famous artists, including Picasso, Matisse, and Miró, displayed throughout the property.
- Beautiful garden and terrace for al fresco dining and relaxation.
- Gourmet restaurant with a focus on French cuisine and local ingredients
- Cozy and individually decorated rooms and suites, some with balconies or terraces and garden views
- Range of activities, including visits to local art galleries and museums, hiking, and boat trips.
- Authentic and charming atmosphere, with a focus on preserving the property’s history and character
- Central location in the charming village of Saint-Paul-de-Vence, within easy reach of local attractions and amenities
- Impeccable service and attention to detail, focusing on creating a welcoming and unique experience for all guests.
Hôtel Martinez
Located in Cannes, Hôtel Martinez is a luxurious hotel with a private beach, spa, and outdoor pool. The hotel has 409 rooms, including suites with sea views. It also has three restaurants, including a Michelin-starred restaurant.
Reasons to choose this hotel:
- Iconic Art Deco building, dating back to 1929 and recently renovated to offer modern amenities and comfort
- Prime location on the Boulevard de la Croisette, with direct access to the beach and sea views
- Private beach with loungers, parasols, and watersports
- Heated outdoor pool with terrace and sea views
- Luxurious rooms and suites, some with balconies or terraces and sea views
- Gourmet restaurants and bars, including a Michelin-starred restaurant, and beachside dining
- Spa and wellness center with indoor pool, sauna, hammam, and range of treatments
- Range of activities, including tennis, golf, and boat trips;
- Complimentary shuttle service to local attractions and amenities
- Impeccable service and attention to detail, focusing on creating a memorable and luxurious experience for all guests.
Hôtel Royal-Riviera
A luxurious hotel with a private beach, spa, and outdoor pool. The hotel has 94 rooms and suites, including some with sea views. It also has two restaurants.
Reasons to choose this hotel:
- Historic and elegant building, dating back to 1904, was recently renovated to offer modern amenities and comfort.
- Secluded location on the coast, surrounded by lush gardens, and overlooking the sea
- Private beach with loungers, parasols, and watersports
- Heated outdoor pool with sea views and terrace
- Luxurious rooms and suites, some with balconies or terraces and sea views
- Gourmet restaurants and bars, including a Michelin-starred restaurant, and beachside dining
- Spa and wellness center with indoor pool, sauna, hammam, and range of treatments
- Range of activities, including tennis, golf, and boat trips.
- Family-friendly amenities, including a kids’ club and family suites
- Impeccable service and attention to detail, focusing on creating a memorable and relaxing experience for all guests.
Cheval Blanc St-Tropez
Cheval Blanc St-Tropez is a luxurious hotel with a spa, an outdoor pool, and two restaurants. The hotel has 30 rooms and suites, each with a unique design.
Reasons to choose this hotel:
- Stunning design and architecture blend traditional and contemporary elements to create a unique and luxurious atmosphere.
- Prime location in the heart of St-Tropez, with easy access to the town’s shops, restaurants, and nightlife
- Private beach club with loungers, parasols, and watersports
- Heated outdoor pool with terrace and sea views
- Luxurious rooms and suites, some with balconies or terraces and sea views
- Gourmet restaurants and bars, including a Michelin-starred restaurant, and beachside dining
- Spa and wellness center with indoor pool, sauna, hammam, and range of treatments
- Range of activities, including tennis, golf, and boat trips.
- Personalized service and attention to detail, with a focus on creating a bespoke and unforgettable experience for each guest
- Unique amenities and experiences, such as a private cinema, art gallery, and dedicated concierge service for yacht and helicopter rentals.
The Best Budget Hotels
The French Riviera is known for its luxurious and high-end accommodations. Still, there are also plenty of budget-friendly options available for travelers looking to experience the beauty and charm of this region without breaking the bank.
Le Chantilly
- a budget hotel located in the heart of Cannes, just a 5-minute walk from the beach and the famous Boulevard de la Croisette.
Accommodations and Amenities
- The hotel features simple yet comfortable rooms with air conditioning and free Wi-Fi.
- Amenities include a 24-hour reception, a lounge area, and a terrace.
Nearby Attractions
- Guests can explore the nearby Palais des Festivals et des Congrès, the Cannes Film Festival venue.
- The Forville Market is just a 10-minute walk away and offers a wide selection of fresh produce and local specialties.
Hôtel Amaryllis
- a budget hotel located in the charming town of Menton, just a 5-minute walk from the beach and the town center.
Accommodations and Amenities
- The hotel offers cozy rooms with air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, and free Wi-Fi.
- Amenities include a garden terrace, a 24-hour reception, and private parking (for an additional fee).
Nearby Attractions
- Guests can visit the nearby Jean Cocteau Museum or take a scenic stroll along the Promenade du Soleil.
- The Italian border is just a short drive away, making it easy to explore the nearby towns of Ventimiglia and San Remo.
Hotel La Villa Patricia
Hotel La Villa Patricia is a budget hotel in the charming town of Grasse, known as the “perfume capital of the world.”
Accommodations and Amenities
- The hotel offers simple yet comfortable rooms with air conditioning and free Wi-Fi.
- Amenities include a garden terrace, a lounge area, and a bar.
Nearby Attractions
- Guests can visit the nearby Fragonard Perfume Museum or take a scenic drive to the nearby hilltop village of Cabris.
- The hotel is also just a short drive away from the coastal towns of Cannes and Antibes.
From charming boutique hotels to cozy bed and breakfasts, these five budget hotels offer comfortable accommodations, convenient amenities, and easy access to the area’s top attractions.
So why wait? Start planning your budget-friendly French Riviera getaway today!
Here’s a compiled list of the Top 10 Places on the French Riviera for your travel guide when visiting this fantastic place.
