The French Riviera, or Côte d’Azur, is renowned for its stunning Mediterranean coastline, glamorous resorts, and vibrant culture. Stretching from the Italian border in the east to the town of Toulon in the west, this picturesque region in southeastern France has been a magnet for the rich and famous for decades. Yet, it offers something for every traveler, from sun-drenched beaches and luxury villas to charming countryside retreats and quaint village homes. Whether you’re seeking the opulence of Cannes, the artistic allure of Saint-Paul-de-Vence, or the serene beauty of Cap Ferrat, the French Riviera has a holiday rental to suit your desires.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore some of the best holiday rentals in the French Riviera, categorized by location and type, and offer tips on how to make the most of your stay in this enchanting part of the world.
1. Cannes: Glamour and Luxury
Cannes is synonymous with glamour, especially during the Cannes Film Festival, which attracts celebrities and film aficionados from around the globe. The city is known for its luxurious hotels, high-end boutiques, and pristine beaches. If you’re looking to experience the glitz and glamour of Cannes, here are some top holiday rental options:
Luxury Villas
- Villa Alang Alang: Situated on the hills overlooking the Bay of Cannes, Villa Alang Alang offers an exquisite blend of modern luxury and traditional charm. This 8-bedroom villa features a stunning infinity pool, landscaped gardens, and expansive terraces. With a private cinema, spa, and fully-equipped gym, this villa provides the ultimate in comfort and luxury.
- Villa Pearl: Located in the exclusive area of Super Cannes, Villa Pearl offers breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea. This contemporary villa has six bedrooms, a heated swimming pool, and extensive outdoor living spaces. The interior is elegantly designed with state-of-the-art amenities, ensuring a luxurious stay.
Beachfront Apartments
- La Croisette Apartment: For those who prefer to be in the heart of the action, the La Croisette Apartment offers an unbeatable location. This chic apartment is situated on the famous Boulevard de la Croisette, just steps from the beach and luxury boutiques. The apartment features modern furnishings, a fully equipped kitchen, and a balcony with sea views.
- Palm Beach Residence: Located in the Palm Beach area of Cannes, this stylish apartment offers direct access to the beach. With two bedrooms, a spacious living area, and a private terrace, it’s perfect for a relaxing seaside getaway. The residence also includes access to a communal swimming pool and garden.
2. Nice: Art and History
Nice is the largest city on the French Riviera and serves as a cultural and artistic hub. Its charming old town, beautiful Promenade des Anglais, and vibrant markets make it a favorite among travelers. Here are some of the best holiday rentals in Nice:
Historic Homes
- Old Town House: Nestled in the heart of Nice’s historic Old Town (Vieux Nice), this charming house offers a taste of traditional French living. The three-story home features original architectural details, including exposed wooden beams and stone walls. It has two bedrooms, a cozy living area, and a rooftop terrace with views over the city.
- Belle Époque Villa: Located near the Promenade des Anglais, this beautifully restored Belle Époque villa offers elegance and comfort. The villa boasts five bedrooms, a lush garden, and a swimming pool. The interior is adorned with period furnishings, chandeliers, and modern amenities.
Modern Apartments
- Promenade des Anglais Penthouse: This luxurious penthouse apartment offers panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea. Located on the famous Promenade des Anglais, the apartment features a spacious terrace, three bedrooms, and an open-plan living area. It’s an ideal base for exploring the best of Nice.
- Portside Loft: Situated near Nice’s vibrant port area, this contemporary loft apartment offers a chic and modern retreat. With high ceilings, large windows, and stylish decor, the loft includes two bedrooms, a fully equipped kitchen, and a balcony overlooking the port.
3. Saint-Tropez: Chic and Sophisticated
Saint-Tropez has long been a playground for the rich and famous, known for its glamorous beach clubs, upscale boutiques, and vibrant nightlife. If you’re looking to experience the chic and sophisticated lifestyle of Saint-Tropez, consider these top holiday rentals:
Luxury Villas
- Villa Bella: Perched on a hill with stunning views of the Gulf of Saint-Tropez, Villa Bella offers ultimate luxury and privacy. This modern villa features six bedrooms, an infinity pool, and expansive outdoor living spaces. The interior is designed with contemporary furnishings, a fully equipped kitchen, and a home cinema.
- La Belle Etoile: Located near the famous Pampelonne Beach, La Belle Etoile is a luxurious villa with seven bedrooms, a large swimming pool, and beautifully landscaped gardens. The villa combines traditional Provençal architecture with modern amenities, providing a serene and elegant retreat.
Charming Houses
- Maison des Artistes: Situated in the heart of Saint-Tropez’s historic center, this charming house offers a blend of artistic flair and modern comfort. The house has three bedrooms, a cozy living area, and a rooftop terrace with views over the town and the sea.
- Village House: Nestled in a quiet street of Saint-Tropez’s old village, this quaint house provides a peaceful escape. With two bedrooms, a lovely courtyard, and traditional Provençal decor, it’s perfect for a relaxing holiday.
4. Antibes: Family-Friendly Retreats
Antibes is known for its beautiful beaches, historic fortifications, and family-friendly atmosphere. The town offers a mix of cultural attractions, outdoor activities, and scenic beauty, making it an ideal destination for families. Here are some top holiday rentals in Antibes:
Family Villas
- Villa Soleil: Located in a quiet residential area, Villa Soleil is a perfect family retreat. The villa features four bedrooms, a large garden, and a swimming pool. The interior is bright and spacious, with a fully equipped kitchen and a playroom for children.
- Villa des Pins: Situated near the Cap d’Antibes, Villa des Pins offers a tranquil setting surrounded by pine trees. The villa has five bedrooms, a heated swimming pool, and extensive outdoor living spaces. It’s ideal for families looking to enjoy both relaxation and adventure.
Seaside Apartments
- Cap d’Antibes Apartment: This modern apartment is located just steps from the beach, offering stunning sea views. With three bedrooms, a spacious living area, and a large terrace, it’s perfect for a family holiday. The apartment complex also includes a communal swimming pool and garden.
- Old Town Apartment: Situated in the heart of Antibes’ historic Old Town, this charming apartment provides easy access to local markets, restaurants, and beaches. The apartment features two bedrooms, a fully equipped kitchen, and a balcony with views over the town.
5. Menton: Peaceful and Picturesque
Menton, located near the Italian border, is known for its beautiful gardens, pastel-colored buildings, and mild climate. The town offers a more relaxed and peaceful atmosphere compared to other Riviera destinations. Here are some of the best holiday rentals in Menton:
Garden Villas
- Villa des Jardins: Nestled in the hills overlooking Menton, Villa des Jardins offers a serene retreat surrounded by lush gardens. The villa features four bedrooms, a private swimming pool, and extensive outdoor living spaces. The interior is tastefully decorated with a blend of modern and traditional furnishings.
- Le Jardin Secret: Located in a quiet residential area, Le Jardin Secret is a charming villa with three bedrooms, a beautiful garden, and a swimming pool. The villa’s peaceful setting and proximity to the beach make it an ideal choice for a relaxing holiday.
Historic Apartments
- Old Town Apartment: Situated in Menton’s historic old town, this beautifully restored apartment offers a taste of traditional French living. The apartment features two bedrooms, a cozy living area, and a balcony with views over the town and the sea.
- Villa Maria Serena: This elegant apartment is located in a historic villa near the famous Maria Serena Garden. The apartment has three bedrooms, a spacious living area, and a large terrace overlooking the garden and the sea.
6. Saint-Paul-de-Vence: Artistic and Quaint
Saint-Paul-de-Vence is a charming medieval village known for its artistic heritage and stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The village has long been a haven for artists, and its narrow streets are lined with galleries and studios. Here are some top holiday rentals in Saint-Paul-de-Vence:
Artistic Villas
- Villa des Artistes: Located on the outskirts of Saint-Paul-de-Vence, Villa des Artistes offers a unique blend of luxury and artistic charm. The villa features six bedrooms, a swimming pool, and beautifully landscaped gardens. The interior is adorned with original artworks and contemporary furnishings.
- La Maison des Peintres: This charming villa is situated in a quiet area near the village center. The villa has four bedrooms, a large garden, and a swimming pool. The interior is decorated with a mix of antique and modern pieces, creating a cozy and artistic ambiance.
Village Houses
- Maison des Artistes: Nestled in the heart of Saint-Paul-de-Vence, this historic house offers an authentic village experience. The house features three bedrooms, a cozy living area, and a rooftop terrace with panoramic views. The interior is decorated with original artworks and traditional furnishings.
- La Petite Maison: This quaint house is located in a quiet street near the village center. The house has two bedrooms, a lovely courtyard, and traditional Provençal decor. It’s perfect for a romantic getaway or a small family holiday.
7. Eze: Cliffside Beauty
Eze is a picturesque village perched on a cliff overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. Known for its stunning views and medieval charm, Eze offers a romantic and tranquil escape. Here are some of the best holiday rentals in Eze:
Cliffside Villas
- Villa Panorama: Perched on a cliff with breathtaking views of the Mediterranean, Villa Panorama offers luxury and seclusion. The villa features five bedrooms, an infinity pool, and expansive terraces. The interior is elegantly designed with modern furnishings and state-of-the-art amenities.
- La Villa des Roses: Located in the hills of Eze, La Villa des Roses offers a serene retreat with stunning sea views. The villa has four bedrooms, a beautiful garden, and a swimming pool. The interior is tastefully decorated with a blend of modern and traditional furnishings.
Charming Apartments
- Eze Village Apartment: This charming apartment is situated in the heart of Eze village, offering easy access to local shops and restaurants. The apartment features two bedrooms, a cozy living area, and a balcony with panoramic views of the sea and the village.
- Sea View Loft: Located near the beach, this stylish loft apartment offers stunning sea views. The apartment has one bedroom, a spacious living area, and a large terrace. It’s perfect for a romantic getaway or a solo retreat.
8. Villefranche-sur-Mer: Scenic and Serene
Villefranche-sur-Mer is a picturesque town known for its colorful buildings, beautiful harbor, and stunning sea views. The town offers a more relaxed and authentic experience compared to its more famous neighbors. Here are some top holiday rentals in Villefranche-sur-Mer:
Seaside Villas
- Villa Belle Vue: Situated on the hills overlooking the Bay of Villefranche, Villa Belle Vue offers breathtaking views and luxurious accommodations. The villa features five bedrooms, a swimming pool, and extensive outdoor living spaces. The interior is elegantly designed with modern furnishings and amenities.
- La Villa des Rêves: Located near the beach, La Villa des Rêves offers a serene retreat with stunning sea views. The villa has four bedrooms, a beautiful garden, and a swimming pool. The interior is tastefully decorated with a blend of modern and traditional furnishings.
Historic Apartments
- Old Town Apartment: Situated in the heart of Villefranche-sur-Mer’s historic old town, this charming apartment offers an authentic French experience. The apartment features two bedrooms, a cozy living area, and a balcony with views over the town and the sea.
- Harbor View Loft: Located near the harbor, this stylish loft apartment offers stunning sea views. The apartment has one bedroom, a spacious living area, and a large terrace. It’s perfect for a romantic getaway or a solo retreat.
9. Cap Ferrat: Exclusive and Elegant
Cap Ferrat is known for its luxurious villas, beautiful gardens, and exclusive atmosphere. The peninsula offers a tranquil escape with stunning sea views and elegant surroundings. Here are some of the best holiday rentals in Cap Ferrat:
Luxury Villas
- Villa Ephrussi: Located on the exclusive Cap Ferrat peninsula, Villa Ephrussi offers luxury and elegance. The villa features seven bedrooms, a large swimming pool, and beautifully landscaped gardens. The interior is adorned with period furnishings, chandeliers, and modern amenities.
- La Villa des Palmiers: Situated near the famous Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild, La Villa des Palmiers offers a serene retreat with stunning sea views. The villa has six bedrooms, a beautiful garden, and a swimming pool. The interior is tastefully decorated with a blend of modern and traditional furnishings.
Charming Houses
- Maison des Jardins: Nestled in a quiet area near the beach, Maison des Jardins offers a peaceful escape with beautiful garden views. The house features three bedrooms, a lovely courtyard, and traditional Provençal decor. It’s perfect for a relaxing holiday.
- La Petite Maison: This quaint house is located in a quiet street near the beach. The house has two bedrooms, a beautiful garden, and traditional Provençal decor. It’s perfect for a romantic getaway or a small family holiday.
10. Cassis: Coastal Charm
Cassis is a charming coastal town known for its beautiful beaches, colorful buildings, and stunning calanques (rocky inlets). The town offers a relaxed and picturesque setting for a holiday. Here are some top holiday rentals in Cassis:
Seaside Villas
- Villa Calanque: Situated on the cliffs overlooking the Mediterranean, Villa Calanque offers stunning sea views and luxurious accommodations. The villa features five bedrooms, a swimming pool, and expansive terraces. The interior is elegantly designed with modern furnishings and amenities.
- La Villa des Flots: Located near the beach, La Villa des Flots offers a serene retreat with stunning sea views. The villa has four bedrooms, a beautiful garden, and a swimming pool. The interior is tastefully decorated with a blend of modern and traditional furnishings.
Charming Apartments
- Cassis Harbor Apartment: This charming apartment is situated near the harbor, offering easy access to local shops and restaurants. The apartment features two bedrooms, a cozy living area, and a balcony with views over the harbor and the sea.
- Sea View Loft: Located near the beach, this stylish loft apartment offers stunning sea views. The apartment has one bedroom, a spacious living area, and a large terrace. It’s perfect for a romantic getaway or a solo retreat.
Making the Most of Your Stay in the French Riviera
Explore the Local Cuisine
The French Riviera is known for its delicious cuisine, which combines Mediterranean flavors with French culinary traditions. Here are some must-try dishes:
- Bouillabaisse: A traditional Provençal fish stew made with a variety of fish, shellfish, and aromatic herbs.
- Salade Niçoise: A fresh and vibrant salad made with tomatoes, hard-boiled eggs, Niçoise olives, anchovies, and tuna.
- Ratatouille: A flavorful vegetable stew made with eggplant, zucchini, bell peppers, tomatoes, and onions.
- Socca: A savory chickpea pancake that is a popular street food in Nice.
Be sure to visit local markets to sample fresh produce, cheeses, and pastries. The markets in Nice, Antibes, and Cannes are particularly vibrant and offer a wide variety of local specialties.
Enjoy Outdoor Activities
The French Riviera offers a wealth of outdoor activities, from hiking and biking to sailing and swimming. Here are some top activities to consider:
- Hiking: Explore the stunning trails along the coast and in the hills. The Sentier du Littoral in Cap d’Antibes and the coastal paths in Cap Ferrat and Eze offer breathtaking views.
- Biking: Rent a bike and ride along the scenic coastal roads or explore the countryside. The Promenade des Anglais in Nice and the Corniche roads offer beautiful cycling routes.
- Sailing: Charter a boat or join a sailing tour to explore the Mediterranean Sea. The waters around the Îles de Lérins and the calanques of Cassis are particularly beautiful.
- Swimming: Enjoy the crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean at the many beautiful beaches along the Riviera. Plage de la Garoupe in Antibes, Plage de Pampelonne in Saint-Tropez, and Plage de la Mala in Cap d’Ail are among the best.
Visit Cultural and Historical Sites
The French Riviera is rich in cultural and historical attractions. Here are some top sites to visit:
- Museums: Visit the many museums dedicated to art and history, such as the Musée Picasso in Antibes, the Musée Matisse in Nice, and the Fondation Maeght in Saint-Paul-de-Vence.
- Historic Villages: Explore the charming medieval villages perched on hillsides, such as Èze, Saint-Paul-de-Vence, and Gourdon. These villages offer stunning views, narrow streets, and a wealth of art galleries and boutiques.
- Gardens: Visit the beautiful gardens of the Riviera, such as the Jardin Exotique in Èze, the Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild gardens in Cap Ferrat, and the Jardin Thuret in Antibes.
Experience Local Festivals and Events
The French Riviera hosts a variety of festivals and events throughout the year. Here are some highlights:
- Cannes Film Festival: Held in May, the Cannes Film Festival is one of the most prestigious film festivals in the world. It attracts celebrities, filmmakers, and film enthusiasts from around the globe.
- Nice Carnival: Held in February, the Nice Carnival is one of the largest and most colorful carnivals in the world. It features parades, floats, and street performances.
- Jazz à Juan: Held in July, this jazz festival in Juan-les-Pins attracts top international jazz musicians and offers a series of concerts in a beautiful seaside setting.
- Monaco Grand Prix: Held in May, the Monaco Grand Prix is one of the most famous and prestigious Formula 1 races. The race takes place on the streets of Monaco, offering a thrilling spectacle.
Conclusion
The French Riviera offers a wealth of holiday rentals to suit every taste and budget, from luxurious villas and modern apartments to charming village houses and historic homes. Whether you’re seeking the glamour of Cannes, the cultural richness of Nice, the chic lifestyle of Saint-Tropez, or the serene beauty of Menton, there is a perfect rental for you.
By exploring the local cuisine, enjoying outdoor activities, visiting cultural and historical sites, and experiencing local festivals and events, you can make the most of your stay in this enchanting region. The French Riviera is a destination that promises unforgettable memories