Where to Stay on the French Riviera: 6 Best Areas & Hotels

Planning a trip to the French Riviera and not sure where to stay? We’ve got you covered!

The French Riviera is famous for its glamorous beach towns and postcard-perfect views. And from lively Nice to luxurious Saint-Tropez, there’s no shortage of places to stay. The only problem is that choosing just one can feel completely overwhelming – we know, we’ve been there. 

After exploring this stunning coastline for ourselves, we’ve put together this guide to the best places to stay on the French Riviera and included our favorite hotels for every budget. We’re here to make finding your perfect base easy, so let’s get into it! 

Where to stay in the French Riviera map

Overview of the Best Areas to Stay in the French Riviera 

The French Riviera, also known as the Côte d’Azur, is one of the most beautiful coastal regions in Europe. Stretching along the Mediterranean in the south of France, it’s famous for its glamorous beach towns and colorful old ports, not to mention the sparkling blue water. While places like Cannes and Saint-Tropez are known for luxury, there are also plenty of quieter towns where you can enjoy a more relaxed Riviera experience.

For us, one of the best things about traveling along the Riviera is that it’s super easy to get around! There’s not much need for a rental car because regional trains run frequently between towns, so hopping around is simple. There are also plenty of scenic cycling routes along the coast, and the towns themselves are very compact and walkable.

The exception is Saint-Tropez, where we did end up renting a car. There’s no train station here, so having your own wheels just makes getting here way more straightforward. Otherwise, you can easily explore the Riviera using public transport! 

• Nice – Best for first-timers & convenience – Nice is the largest city on the French Riviera and the most convenient base, with easy train connections to places like Monaco and Cannes. Best Western Hotel Lakmi Nice is a well-priced option in the city center, within walking distance of the Old Town and the Promenade des Anglais.

• Cannes – Best for an upscale, classic Riviera stay – Cannes offers a polished and glamorous Riviera experience with luxury hotels and sandy beaches aplenty, plus the famous Boulevard de la Croisette. Staybridge Suites is a comfortable hotel with spacious rooms and a great location close to the marina and main attractions.

• Saint-Tropez – Best for beach clubs & luxury – Saint-Tropez is the Riviera’s most famous luxury hotspot, known for its beach clubs, yachts, and lively nightlife scene. La Bastide Du Port – Hôtel de Charme is a charming boutique hotel just a short walk from the port and Old Town.

• Menton – Best for a quiet & affordable escape – Menton is a colorful seaside town near the Italian border that feels quieter and more affordable than much of the Riviera. Best Western Hotel Mediterranee Menton offers comfortable rooms and a convenient location close to the beach and historic center.

• Villefranche-sur-Mer – Best for a scenic yet convenient stay – Villefranche-sur-Mer is a picturesque harbor town with pastel buildings and one of the most beautiful bays on the Riviera. Hôtel La Flore is a lovely mid-range hotel perched on the hillside with fantastic views over the bay.

• Antibes – Best for relaxed, coastal vibes – Antibes offers beautiful beaches and a historic old town, as well as scenic walking trails around Cap d’Antibes. La Garoupe-Gardiole Boutique Hotel is a peaceful boutique stay near the coast with a pool and lovely garden setting. 

Where to Stay in the French Riviera

Nice

BEST FOR FIRST-TIMERS & CONVENIENCE

Pros

• Excellent train connections to Monaco, Cannes, and Menton
• Great mix of beaches and culture

Cons

• Can feel busy in peak summer months
• Accommodation tends to be more expensive than smaller towns

We consider Nice to be the best place to stay on the French Riviera for first-time visitors, mainly because it’s so convenient. The city sits right in the middle of the coast, and the train station makes it incredibly easy to take day trips to places like Monaco, Cannes, Antibes, or Menton. If you want to explore the Riviera without constantly changing hotels, Nice is the perfect base!

Plus, the city itself is full of things to see and do. One of our favorite areas is Vieux Nice, the colorful Old Town filled with narrow streets and buzzing local restaurants. This is where you’ll find the famous Cours Saleya Market, which is packed with flowers and delicious food stalls during the day.

One of our favorite things to do here is climbing Castle Hill, which offers some of the best panoramic views over Nice and the Baie des Anges. From there, we like to walk down to the waterfront and enjoy a stroll along the iconic Promenade des Anglais, which is the palm-lined seaside boulevard that runs along the coast.

Nice also has two main areas where visitors tend to stay. The Old Town (Vieux Nice) is full of character and historic charm, while the Jean-Médecin area in the New Town offers more shopping and larger hotels, as well as easy access to the train station.

Vieux Nice (Old Town)

Hôtel La Pérouse Nice Baie des Anges – $$$

If you want views, elegance, and a location that’s hard to beat, Hôtel La Pérouse Nice Baie des Anges is the hotel to book. Perched just above the Promenade des Anglais and tucked into the cliffs beneath Castle Hill, this place gave us the dreamiest view of the Baie des Anges right from our balcony. It felt like our own private slice of the Riviera.

We loved how quiet and tucked-away it felt, even though it’s just steps from the Old Town and Cours Saleya Market. The rooms are beautifully done with plush linens and those little luxe touches like high-end toiletries and turn-down service. 

Rooms typically range from €400 to €700+ per night, depending on the room and season. Some suites can go higher, but trust us, this place is worth the splurge.

Albert 1er – $$

Albert 1er checked all our boxes for location, comfort, and value. It was such a pleasant surprise! The hotel sits right across from the Albert 1er Garden and Promenade du Paillon, and it’s just a couple of minutes’ walk to both the Old Town and the beach. 

We could start our morning with a croissant on the balcony and be at the Cours Saleya market or swimming in the sea before my coffee cooled. The rooms are bright, comfy, and well-kept, and if you can snag one with a sea view, do it!

We loved that we could enjoy a peaceful night’s sleep, despite being in the middle of the action. Rooms typically range from €200 to €400 per night, and breakfast can be included. For a central stay in Nice without splurging too hard, this one’s a winner.

Hotel De La Mer- $

If you want to stay right in the thick of things without blowing your whole budget, Hotel De La Mer is our go-to pick. It’s located right on Place Massena, literally steps from the Promenade des Anglais, the Old Town, and the tram line.

The rooms are simple but clean, air-conditioned, and soundproofed (thankfully, because Place Massena is lively). Ours even had a little balcony with a view of the square, which felt like such a bonus at this price point. The staff were kind and helpful, and we appreciated how easy check-in was, even late at night.

Rooms typically range from €150 to €250 per night, depending on room type and season. Breakfast is an extra €10, but there are plenty of cafés nearby too. For the unbeatable location and solid comfort, it’s absolutely worth it.

Jean-Médecin (New Town)

Boscolo Nice Hotel & Spa – $$$

Staying at the Boscolo Nice Hotel & Spa felt like stepping into a design magazine. This place is all about understated elegance with a splash of glam. The Belle Époque façade gives it a classic Nice vibe, but inside it’s all white-on-white luxury with gold accents and high-end finishes. 

We were obsessed with the rooftop pool (hello, panoramic city views!) and the spa access, which was the perfect way to unwind after a day of sightseeing. The location couldn’t have been more convenient—smack in the middle of Jean-Médecin, steps from the tram and an easy walk to the Old Town, beach, and Nice-Ville train station. 

The rooms are spacious, soundproofed, and ridiculously comfortable. We even had a Nespresso machine and complimentary mini-bar drinks—nice touch! Rates range from €200 to €600+ per night, depending on room type and season. Some rates even include breakfast and spa access!

Best Western Hotel Lakmi Nice – $$

Best Western Hotel Lakmi Nice ended up totally exceeding our expectations. It’s right on Avenue Jean Médecin, so you’re smack in the middle of shopping, restaurants, the tram line, and just a quick walk to the train station. We even managed to squeeze in a day trip to Monaco without any hassle.

Our room was super clean and comfortable, and the soundproofing really helped block out the street noise. Some rooms have balconies, which are perfect for sipping a morning coffee while people-watching below. The staff here were seriously kind and went out of their way to help with restaurant tips and local insight.

Prices generally range from €150 to €350 per night, with breakfast included. It’s solid value for money in a super central location, especially if you’re planning to explore both Nice and the nearby Riviera towns.

Hotel d’Ostende – $

Although Hotel d’Ostende is a no-frills kind of place, it seriously delivers on location and value, especially if you’re just looking for somewhere clean, central, and affordable to crash after a day of exploring. We stayed here for a quick trip and loved being steps from Nice-Ville station—perfect for getting around and taking day trips to Antibes or Monaco.

The rooms are basic but comfortable, featuring private bathrooms and air conditioning, which is a must in the summer! Ours was small but spotless, and the staff were kind and available 24/7 if you needed anything. You’ve got cafés and bakeries nearby, or you can add breakfast at the hotel for just €12. 

Rooms usually range from €85 to €150 per night, depending on your room choice and timing. It’s a solid pick if you’re traveling on a budget but still want to stay in the heart of the action.

Cannes

BEST FOR AN UPSCALE, CLASSIC RIVIERA STAY

Pros

• Beautiful beaches and a glamorous marina
• Great restaurants and shopping
• Lots of boat trips on offer

Cons

• More expensive than many other Riviera towns
• Can feel busy during major events like the Cannes Film Festival

As I’m sure you already know, Cannes is one of the most iconic destinations on the French Riviera! It offers that classic, glamorous Riviera experience that many travelers imagine, so if you’re looking for beautiful beaches and luxury hotels, you’ll fall in love with this region quicker than you can say “bonjour!”

The heart of Cannes is Boulevard de la Croisette. This is the town’s famous waterfront promenade, and it’s lined with designer boutiques and elegant hotels. Many of the beaches here are private beach clubs where you can rent loungers and enjoy food and drinks by the water, so if you’re looking for a more exclusive experience, you’ll love it here.

The marina is another highlight, filled with luxury yachts and surrounded by restaurants and bars. From here, you can take boat trips out to the nearby Lérins Islands, which offer peaceful walking trails, historic monasteries, and crystal-clear swimming spots.

Despite its glamorous reputation, Cannes still has pockets of historic charm. Le Suquet, the old quarter, sits on a hill above the harbor and offers fantastic views over the bay. We like coming here to check out the old school restaurants and visit the Marché Forville to find local produce and fresh flowers.

Hôtel Martinez – $$$

Hôtel Martinez is one of the most famous luxury hotels in Cannes, and it sits right on the legendary Boulevard de la Croisette. This elegant Art Deco hotel has been welcoming glamorous guests for decades, and it perfectly captures the classic Riviera lifestyle.

The rooms are stylish and spacious, and many offer balconies with views over the Mediterranean. The hotel also has a beautiful private beach club and several excellent restaurants and bars. If you’re looking for a luxurious beachfront stay in the heart of Cannes, this place is hard to beat!

Rooms here typically start at around €600 per night during the summer months.

If Hôtel Martinez is fully booked, Five Seas by Inwood Hotels is another fantastic luxury option located just steps from the Croisette and the marina. We love its beautiful rooftop pool and a chic boutique atmosphere.

Mondrian Cannes is also a great choice if you want a modern beachfront hotel. The property sits right on the Croisette and offers stylish rooms with sea views, so it definitely has those chic Riviera vibes!

Staybridge Suites – $$

Staybridge Suites is a great option in Cannes if you’re looking for a comfortable stay with a bit more space. The hotel is located in a quieter part of town, but it’s still only a short walk from the Croisette, the marina, and all of the best beaches.

The rooms are modern and spacious, and many of them include small kitchen areas, which are perfect if you’re planning a longer stay! There’s also a rooftop terrace and pool where you can relax after a day of sightseeing. All in all, it’s a very comfortable and convenient base for exploring Cannes, and it doesn’t cost the earth.

Rooms typically start from around €220 per night during the warmer months.

If Staybridge Suites is fully booked, BW Premier Collection Mondial is another excellent mid-range option located right on Rue d’Antibes, the famous shopping street. It offers modern rooms with plush decor and lovely views, as well as a very central location.

Alternatively, La Bastide de l’Oliveraie is also worth considering if you prefer a more peaceful stay. The hotel sits slightly uphill, which means that it offers a quieter atmosphere and gorgeous views over Cannes! 

Hotel Abrial by Soniho – $

Hotel Abrial by Soniho is a pleasant and practical option located just a short walk from the Croisette and the beach. If you want to stay in Cannes without spending a fortune, we think that this hotel offers great value for money!

The rooms are simple but comfortable, and the hotel has a small garden and terrace area where guests can relax. The location is another big advantage, as you can easily walk to the beaches and shopping streets nearby.

Prices here usually start at around €130 per night.

If Hotel Abrial is fully booked, L’Esterel is another good budget option located near the train station and the marina. The rooftop terrace offers lovely views over Cannes, and it’s just a minute’s walk from the train station.

Hôtel Jardin Croisette is another great pick if you want to stay very close to the Croisette. It has a quiet courtyard garden with sofas and egg chairs, and its central location makes exploring Cannes a breeze! 

Saint-Tropez 

BEST FOR BEACH CLUBS & LUXURY

Pros

• Famous beach clubs and glamorous nightlife
• Beautiful old harbor and luxury hotels

Cons

• One of the most expensive Riviera destinations
• No direct train station, so getting here takes a little more effort

Saint-Tropez is one of the most glamorous destinations on the French Riviera, and it’s famous for its luxury lifestyle and beach clubs. It’s hard to believe that this was once a small fishing village because today, it’s a party hotspot for the rich and famous. If you want to experience the Riviera at its most stylish, this is it!

The town itself is super charming. The old harbor is lined with colorful buildings and luxury yachts, and we love watching the world go by at one of the waterfront cafes. Then, just behind the marina sits the Old Town (La Ponche), where the narrow streets are lined with trendy boutiques and excellent restaurants. For us, one of the best things about staying here versus just visiting is being able to explore in the evening when all of the day-trippers have left. 

We’d also be remiss not to mention Pampelonne Beach, which is undoubtedly one of the area’s biggest draws. It’s a long beach just outside of town, and it’s home to some of the Riviera’s most iconic beach clubs, including Nikki Beach and Club 55, both of which are famous for their daytime parties and glamorous atmosphere.

Kube Saint-Tropez – $$$

Kube Saint-Tropez is one of the most stylish luxury hotels in the area. It sits on a hill overlooking the Mediterranean, which means that you get beautiful panoramic views across the coastline.

The rooms here are sleek and modern, and there are three outdoor pools surrounded by gardens and sun loungers. There’s also a fantastic restaurant and rooftop terrace where you can enjoy sunset drinks while taking in the sea views – that’s the French Riviera dream right there! 

Rooms here typically start at around €450 per night during the summer months.

If Kube Saint-Tropez is fully booked, MUSE Saint Tropez is another fantastic luxury hotel known for its peaceful setting and elegant suites. It offers beautiful gardens and a shuttle service into town for the ultimate convenience.

We also think that Le Yaca Saint-Tropez is a wonderful choice if you prefer a boutique stay right in the Old Town. The charming courtyard pool and classic Riviera atmosphere make it feel very special.

La Bastide Du Port – Hôtel de Charme – $$

La Bastide Du Port – Hôtel de Charme is a lovely mid-range boutique hotel located just a short walk from the marina. The location is fantastic, as you can easily stroll into the Old Town and explore the harbor and restaurants.

The rooms are bright and comfortable, and many feature balconies overlooking the garden or the sea. The hotel also has a beautiful outdoor terrace surrounded by greenery where guests can relax after a day at the beach. It’s a charming and peaceful place to stay while still being very close to the center of Saint-Tropez, so what’s not to love?

Rooms typically start from around €250 per night during the warmer months.

If La Bastide Du Port is fully booked, Le Mouillage is another great boutique hotel located close to the harbor with stylish rooms and a lovely pool area. We love the chic decor and the fact that there’s free parking, which is very handy in St. Tropez, where you need a car!

Hotel Brin d’Azur is also worth considering if you want to stay right by the water. Many of the rooms have sea views and the beach is just steps away, so it certainly ticks all of our boxes.

Hôtel Playa – $

Hôtel Playa is one of the more affordable places to stay in Saint-Tropez, which is not always easy to find in this glamorous destination! The hotel sits right in the center of town, just a short walk from the marina and the Old Town.

The rooms are simple but still elegant, and the beds are really comfortable. Best of all, the location makes it a great base for exploring the area. You’ll be within walking distance of restaurants, shops, and the harbor, which means you can enjoy Saint-Tropez without needing to rely on taxis or transport.

Prices here usually start at around €150 per night.

If Hôtel Playa is fully booked, Windward is another budget-friendly option located close to the port. The rooms are simple but comfortable, and the location makes it easy to explore Saint-Tropez on foot.

Menton

BEST FOR A QUIET & AFFORDABLE ESCAPE

Pros

• More affordable than many other Riviera towns
• Beautiful beaches and a relaxed atmosphere

Cons

• Quieter nightlife scene
• Further from the central Riviera hotspots

In our opinion, Menton is one of the most charming and underrated towns on the French Riviera. It’s located right near the Italian border, and it offers slightly lower prices compared to places like Nice and Cannes, which makes it a good choice if you want to stick to a more modest budget. But affordability is definitely not the only reason to stay here – we love how much more laid-back it feels compared to the ritzy destinations along the coast.

Menton has a lovely Old Town filled with narrow streets and pretty pastel buildings. As we explored, we found a ton of scenic viewpoints overlooking the Mediterranean, and we also really enjoyed the waterfront promenade! It’s lined with palm trees, and there are tons of cafes where you can chill out with a coffee or a cocktail and enjoy the sea views. 

Menton is also famous for its gardens and citrus groves, which give the town its nickname as the “Pearl of France.” Another big advantage of staying here is the location. You’re only about 10 minutes from Monaco and around 40 minutes from Nice by train or car, so it’s easy to explore the rest of the Riviera while enjoying a quieter and more affordable base.

Villa Genesis – $$$

Villa Genesis is one of the most elegant boutique hotels in Menton. It’s set inside a beautiful Belle Époque villa surrounded by gardens, and it’s just a short walk from the beach – bliss. 

The rooms are beautifully decorated in classic Riviera style, so staying here is sure to make you feel like royalty. There’s also a lovely outdoor pool surrounded by palm trees and greenery, and the service is impeccable. It’s the ideal place to come home to after a busy day of exploring Menton. 

Rooms here typically start at around €320 per night during the summer months.

If Villa Genesis is fully booked, Hôtel Gabriel is another charming boutique hotel located close to the beach with stylish rooms and a welcoming atmosphere. It’s decorated in quirky Neo Riviera style, and the breakfast is absolutely amazing.

Meanwhile, Best Western Premier Hotel Prince de Galles is also a fantastic option if you prefer a beachfront stay. Many of the rooms offer beautiful views of that bright blue sea, and the on-site restaurant is one of Menton’s best! 

Best Western Hotel Mediterranee Menton – $$

Best Western Hotel Mediterranee Menton is a bright and airy option located right in the center of town. From here, you can easily walk to the beach and the Old Town, so you’re perfectly positioned to explore! 

The rooms are modern and comfortable, and some feature small balconies overlooking the city. One of the highlights is the rooftop terrace restaurant, which offers lovely views across the rooftops and toward the sea. It’s a great spot to enjoy dinner after a day of exploring.

Rooms typically start from around €180 per night during the warmer months.

If Best Western Hotel Mediterranee Menton is fully booked, Hôtel De Londres is another excellent mid-range option located very close to the beach. It offers bright modern rooms and a very convenient location.

Hôtel Riva Art & Spa is also worth considering if you enjoy gorgeous views, as most of the rooms look out on the white sand and sparkling sea below. There’s also a rooftop hot tub which offers views for days – nothing says “vacation” quite like that if you ask me! 

Hotel De Belgique à Menton – $ 

Hotel De Belgique à Menton is a great budget-friendly option located close to the center of town. The hotel is within walking distance of the beach, the Old Town, and the train station, so it’s super convenient for exploring the Riviera. 

The rooms are simple but homely, and the friendly service gives the hotel a welcoming atmosphere. It’s not a luxury stay, but it’s a solid choice if you want something affordable while still being in a great location. 

Prices here usually start at around €110 per night.

If you’re looking for another affordable stay nearby, Hotel Parisien offers bright, modern rooms and a convenient location close to the beach. It’s chic but straightforward, with great views!

Alternatively, Hotel Lemon is a reputable option with colorful rooms and a small garden terrace where guests can hang out. This place proves that Riviera style doesn’t have to break the bank. 

Villefranche-su-Mer 

BEST FOR A SCENIC YET CONVENIENT STAY

Pros

• One of the most beautiful bays on the French Riviera
• Very close to Nice with easy train access

Cons

• Smaller selection of hotels
• Steep streets in parts of town

Villefranche-sur-Mer is one of the most picturesque towns on the French Riviera. It’s located just a few minutes from Nice and offers a quieter, more romantic atmosphere while still being a convenient base for exploring the region. That’s what we call the best of both worlds! 

The town is famous for its stunning harbor, which is surrounded by pastel-colored buildings that cascade down toward the water. Walking through the Old Town feels like stepping into a postcard, with narrow cobbled streets and beautiful sea views around every corner.

Villefranche also has one of the best natural harbors on the Riviera, and the sandy beach here is larger and calmer than many others along the coast. It’s one of our favorite spots to hang out on the entire south coast! Plage des Marinières is a great spot for swimming, and it’s just a short walk from the train station.

Another big advantage of staying here is the location. Nice is just 10 minutes away on the train – how great is that? You can also get to Monaco in about 20 minutes, so the French Riviera is your oyster when you stay here!

Welcome Hotel – $$$

Welcome Hotel is one of the most famous places to stay in Villefranche-sur-Mer, and its waterfront location is hard to beat. The hotel sits right on the harbor, so many of the rooms have incredible views over the bay and the colorful waterfront buildings.

The rooms are elegant and comfortable, with classic Riviera style and private balconies that look out over the water. There’s also a lovely restaurant terrace where you can enjoy breakfast or dinner while watching boats drift through the harbor. If you’re looking for a romantic Riviera stay with beautiful views, we think that this hotel is a fantastic choice!

Rooms here typically start at around €320 per night during the summer months.

If Welcome Hotel is fully booked, Hotel De La Darse is another lovely waterfront hotel located near the marina with beautiful harbor views. It somehow feels quaint and luxurious at the same time, and the on-site restaurant offers the most amazing fresh seafood.

We also love Hôtel Le Versailles, as it’s perched right above the bay and you can enjoy panoramic ocean views from the sleek outdoor pool. The restaurant terrace is also the perfect spot for a leisurely lunch or a sunset dinner – bliss! 

Hôtel La Flore – $$

Hôtel La Flore is a great mid-range option perched on the hillside above Villefranche-sur-Mer. The elevated location means you’ll get fantastic views across the bay and the surrounding coastline.

The rooms are decorated in that classic Provencal style, so you get traditional touches alongside modern amenities. There’s also a lovely outdoor pool and terrace area where you can relax while enjoying the scenery. It’s a peaceful place to stay while still being just a short walk or drive from the town center!

Rooms typically start from around €210 per night during the warmer months.

If Hôtel La Flore is fully booked, Hôtel La Fiancée du Pirate is another charming hotel set in a quiet garden setting above the town. The pool terrace offers beautiful views over the bay, and they offer a generous cancellation policy, too. 

Hotel La Regence – $ 

Hotel La Regence is a budget-friendly option that feels like a lovely home from home. And better still, it’s right in the center of Villefranche-sur-Mer! From here, you can easily walk to the beach and the harbor, as well as many of the town’s restaurants and cafés.

The rooms are simple but comfortable, and many offer balconies with sea views. The location really is the highlight here, as you’ll be staying just steps from the waterfront and the lively Old Town streets.

Prices here usually start at around €150 per night.

If Hotel La Regence is fully booked, Hotel La Citadelle is another affordable option located close to the harbor and main attractions. Some rooms offer sea views, and to me, the rooms here feel like a Parisian apartment!

Or Résidence Pierre & Vacances l’Ange Gardien is a great option for groups and families, as they have apartments and studios that can sleep up to six guests. It’s great for self-catering! 

Related Read: Another dreamy region to explore is the Loire Valley! See our guide to the best chateau hotels in the Loire Valley for a truly fairytale stay!

Antibes

BEST FOR RELAXED, COASTAL VIBES

Pros

• Charming old town and beautiful coastal scenery
• Great location between Nice and Cannes

Cons

• Smaller nightlife scene than Nice or Cannes
• Some beaches are pebbly rather than sandy

Antibes is a wonderful place to stay if you want to experience a more relaxed side of the French Riviera. It’s located between Nice and Cannes, and it offers an amazing mixture of history and beautiful coastline. It also tends to be a bit more affordable than some of the Riviera’s bigger hotspots, and it’s still easy to explore the region from here.

The heart of the town is Vieil Antibes, the historic old quarter surrounded by ancient stone walls. It’s made up of narrow streets and lively cafes, and we love the daily market! It sells local produce and fresh flowers, and we definitely recommend picking up some cheeses and fresh herbs while you’re here. 

Antibes is also home to a gorgeous marina. Port Vauban is one of the largest marinas in the whole of Europe, and it’s always filled with impressive yachts! 

But beyond that, Antibes is known for its cultural sights, such as the Picasso Museum. It’s housed inside a historic château overlooking the sea and showcases works created by the artist during his time in the town. And if you enjoy being outdoors, the Cap d’Antibes coastal trail is a total must-do. 

Boutique Hôtel Villa Fabulite – $$$

Boutique Hôtel Villa Fabulite is a 5-star hotel just a short walk from the coast. It’s surrounded by gardens and palm trees, so the property really feels like a quiet retreat away from the busier Riviera towns.

The rooms are stylish and comfortable, and many of them open onto terraces overlooking the gardens. There’s also a lovely outdoor pool and a restaurant serving Mediterranean-inspired dishes – yum! If you’re looking for a relaxing and elegant place to stay near the sea, we think that this hotel is a great choice.

Rooms here typically start at around €360 per night during the summer months.

If Boutique Hôtel Villa Fabulite is fully booked, Villa Miraé by Inwood Hotels in Cap d’Antibes is another beautiful boutique option with stylish rooms and a peaceful atmosphere. The rooms are chic and minimalist, and they’re soundproofed to ensure a good night’s sleep.

Hôtel La Villa Port d’Antibes & Spa is also worth considering if you prefer to stay close to the Old Town. The decor is a bit more kitsch, but we love the pool area, and the on-site spa is the ideal place to unwind.

La Garoupe-Gardiole Boutique Hotel – $$

La Garoupe-Gardiole Boutique Hotel offers a lovely modern stay located near the beaches of Cap d’Antibes. The hotel is surrounded by gardens and offers a peaceful atmosphere that feels perfect for a Riviera getaway.

The rooms are bright and comfortable, and there’s a beautiful outdoor pool with sun loungers where you can relax after a day at the beach. The location is also great for exploring the nearby coastal trail and the sandy beaches around Cap d’Antibes.

Rooms typically start from around €220 per night during the warmer months.

If La Garoupe-Gardiole Boutique Hotel is fully booked, Royal Antibes – Luxury Hotel, Résidence, Beach & Spa is another fantastic option located right by the sea with beautiful views. It’s super slick with an on-site Phytomer spa, and guests enjoy complimentary access to its therapeutic baths and steam room!

Hôtel Josse is also a smart pick as it offers a comfortable and relaxing stay at a reasonable price. The location is convenient too, as it’s within walking distance of the beach and the Old Town.

Hôtel de l’Étoile – $

Hôtel de l’Étoile is a budget-friendly option located in the center of Antibes. From here, you can easily walk to the train station, the Old Town, and the marina, so it works well if you’re planning to spend most of your time out and about exploring! 

The rooms are very simple, but they’re well-equipped and spotlessly clean. The staff are super helpful too and are on hand to provide beach towels and tips for exploring the area whenever needed! This may not be a luxury stay, but it offers awesome value for money if you want something affordable and centrally located.

Prices here usually start at around €120 per night.

If Hôtel de l’Étoile is fully booked, Hôtel Le Collier is another budget option located close to the train station and marina. It’s not flashy, but it offers comfy beds and strong showers, so it’s a great base for exploring Antibes and beyond.

Meanwhile, Best Western Hôtel Journel Antibes Juan-les-Pins is also worth considering if you’re looking for something a bit more stylish. It feels smart and modern, with art deco touches, and there’s a rooftop terrace that offers panoramic sea views. 

Top Activities to do in the French Riviera

Now that you’ve picked out the best area and your favorite hotel, you can plan the rest of your trip. While we love an itinerary solely focused on lazy beach days and wandering around charming towns, there is more to explore in this region! Here are some of our favorite tours we did, based out of Nice, Cannes, and one even in Monaco!

• Go on a food tour in Nice – There’s no denying French cuisine is one of the best. So to find the top restaurants and hidden gems in Nice, we joined this food tour. Our local guide was amazing, and we ate a lot of delicious food – I highly recommend it!

• Learn history on a walking tour – In a city as old and beautiful as Nice, there is a lot to take in! We loved this walking tour of Old Nice and Castle Hill, as we learned so much and could easily see Nice’s top sights with a guide.

• Take a day trip to Monaco and Eze – This day trip to Monaco and Eze is a great way to maximize your time on the Riviera while based in Nice! It made visiting these iconic cities a breeze, and we could enjoy the charm of Eze and the luxury and glamour of Monaco in just one day.

• Take a boat trip along the French Riviera – This boat tour from Cannes is the best way to get on the water and explore the stunning coastline. This is some of the prettiest water I’ve ever seen, and the caves, coves, and hidden beaches are unforgettable.

• Go behind the scenes of the Monaco Grand Prix – Monaco’s famous Formula 1 race draws in a lot of travelers, so you can get the inside scoop on this guided tour. If you can’t be here for the real event, seeing the race track, learning history, and hearing stories of the drives was incredible. Honestly, even if you’re not into Formula 1, this is an impressive experience.

Related Read: Looking for more adventures? See our list of the Best Things to do in France and continue your travels through this beautiful country!

Thanks for reading!

A trip to the French Riviera, or the Côte d’Azur, is definitely a bucket list experience. But choosing the right city and hotel for your travel style and budget can really make or break your experience! Don’t stress, though, we’ve got you covered. These six areas will appeal to all types of travelers, so I’m confident you’ll find the perfect place to stay on our dream vacation!

If you need help planning the rest of your trip, see all of our Europe blogs. As long-time travelers, we love helping others plan their next trip. Here are a few related blogs that you might be interested in. Happy planning!

Where to Stay in Bordeaux, France: 4 Best Areas & Hotels

22 Best Things to do in the United Kingdom

Where to Stay in Malaga, Spain: 6 Best Areas & Hotels

The Best Beach Destinations in Southern Europe (For Every Type of Traveler)