The French Riviera, renowned for its mix of glamour and picturesque villages, is a haven for travellers seeking a taste of luxury, culture, and relaxation. When planning a visit to Antibes, Cannes, Nice, Saint-Tropez or Monaco, selecting the right hotel is crucial for a memorable experience. This guide provides recommendations for luxury, high quality and affordable hotels in each of these exquisite destinations.
Best Hotels on the French Riviera
Antibes
- Luxury: Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc
Nestled on the stunning Cap d’Antibes, Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc is an epitome of luxury. With breathtaking sea views, lush gardens, and impeccable service, it’s a favourite among celebrities, especially during the Cannes Film Festival. Expect spacious suites and private villas, an infinity pool, tennis courts, a spa run by Dior and Michelin-starred dining under the stars. And you might even bump into Leonardo di Caprio.
Visit https://www.oetkercollection.com/hotels/hotel-du-cap-eden-roc/ - High quality: Hotel Juana
Situated in the heart of Juan-les-Pins, Hotel Juana offers a perfect blend of elegance and affordability. The hotel’s Art Deco style and comfortable rooms create a welcoming atmosphere for guests. With a short walk to the beach and proximity to the vibrant town center, Hotel Juana provides a convenient location for exploring Antibes. Amenities include a lovely outdoor pool, a restaurant serving Mediterranean cuisine, and attentive service.
Visit https://www.hotel-juana.com/en/ - Affordable: Hotel La Place
For business travellers, Hotel La Place offers a charming and intimate atmosphere in the heart of Antibes. The cozy rooms, some with balconies, make it an excellent choice for those looking for a wallet-friendly option without sacrificing quality. A favourite of Spanish artist Jaume Plensa, who created Le Nomade sculpture on the port of Antibes. Open all year round.
Visit https://www.la-place-hotel.com/en
Cannes
- Luxury: Carlton Cannes
Situated on the famous Boulevard de la Croisette, the Carlton Cannes is an iconic luxury hotel with a timeless charm. Alfred Hitchcock’s classic movie To Catch a Thief with Cary Grant and Grace Kelly was filmed there in 1955. More recently, French Kiss with Meg Ryan and Absolutely Fabulous, the Movie with Joanna Lumley chose the Carlton as a glamourous backdrop. Having been recently renovated, its spacious rooms, gourmet dining, and private beach make it a haven for the discerning traveller.
Visit https://carltoncannes.com/en/ - High quality: Hotel Barrière Le Gray d’Albion
This centrally located hotel provides a perfect blend of sophistication and affordability. With stylish rooms, a private beach, and proximity to Cannes’ attractions, Hotel Barrière Le Gray d’Albion caters to mid-range budgets without compromising on quality.
Visit https://www.hotelsbarriere.com/en/cannes/le-gray-d-albion.html - Affordable: Hotel Le Mistral
Tucked away in a quaint corner of Cannes, Hotel Le Mistral offers a delightful boutique experience without breaking the bank. The hotel’s unique décor, personalized service, and attention to detail create a charming atmosphere. The rooms are tastefully designed, combining modern comforts with a touch of Provencal flair. Located in a more relaxed area, Hotel Le Mistral allows guests to enjoy a peaceful retreat while still being within reach of Cannes’ attractions.
Visit https://mistral-hotel.com/
Nice
- Luxury: Hotel Negresco
A symbol of luxury on the Promenade des Anglais, Hotel Negresco boasts a rich history and unparalleled elegance. Dating back to 1913, the hotel has welcomed Princess Grace of Monaco, the Beatles, Louis Armstrong and the Spanish artist Dali, to name but a few. Lavish rooms, exquisite dining, and a world-class art collection define this iconic hotel.
Visit https://www.hotel-negresco-nice.com/en
P.S. If you’re looking for something brand new, the 5-star Le Victoria hotel opened in late 2024. Also on the Promenade des Anglais, it offers spectacular views of the Baie des Anges and the Nice hinterland. It has a spa and fitness centre, as well as a rooftop with restaurant, bar and swimming pool.
Visit https://maison-albar-hotels-le-victoria.com/en/ - High quality: Hyatt Regency Nice Palais de la Méditerranée
Enjoy a balance of luxury and affordability at the Hyatt Regency. Overlooking the Mediterranean, this hotel offers spacious rooms, a rooftop pool, and easy access to Nice’s shopping attractions, its markets on Place Massena and busy nightlife. And for those travelling with a furry friend, the Hyatt Regency is a pet-friendly hotel.
Visit https://www.hyatt.com/hyatt-regency/en-US/ncehr-hyatt-regency-nice-palais-de-la-mediterranee - Affordable: The Deck Hotel by Happy Culture
Designed to offer the perfect balance between functionality and aesthetics, the Deck Hotel, formerly known at the Hotel de Flore, is a charming boutique hotel in the heart of Nice. Its proximity to the beach, the Old Town and the flower market makes it an excellent choice for the cost-conscious tourists and savvy business travellers.
Visit https://www.deck-hotel.com/
Saint-Tropez
- Luxury: Hotel Byblos
Synonymous with glamour, Hotel Byblos has been a St Tropez institution since its opening in 1967. Boasting luxurious accommodation, a renowned spa, and a vibrant nightlife scene, it is the epitome of sophistication. Have a cocktail by the pool at its famous Lounge Bar “B” before hitting the dancefloor at les Caves du Roy.
Visit https://www.byblos.com/en/byblos-saint-tropez/ - High quality: La Bastide de Saint Tropez
Combining Provençal charm with elegant surroundings, La Bastide de Saint Tropez offers a tranquil escape away from the madding crowd. The hotel features a pool, lovely gardens, and stylish rooms, providing a comfortable stay without the high-end price tag.
Visit https://www.bastide-saint-tropez.com/ - Affordable: Hotel Le Mouillage Budget-conscious travellers will appreciate Hotel Le Mouillage, a cozy option in St Tropez. With its convenient location and comfortable rooms, this hotel offers a cost-effective solution without compromising on the St Tropez experience.
Visit https://www.hotelmouillage.fr/
Monaco
- Luxury: Hotel de Paris Monte-Carlo
Located in the heart of Monaco, Hotel de Paris is synonymous with luxury and elegance. This iconic hotel boasts lavish rooms and suites, impeccable service, and stunning views of the Mediterranean. Guests can indulge in gourmet dining at the Louis XV Michelin-starred restaurants, relaxed dining on the rooftop restaurant, a cocktail in the American Bar and enjoy access to the Thermes Marins Monte-Carlo Spa. And the outdoor terrace provides a first-class viewing spot during the Monaco Grand Prix.
Visit https://www.montecarlosbm.com/fr/hotel-monaco/hotel-paris-monte-carlo - High quality: Novotel Monte Carlo
For a comfortable stay at a more moderate price point, Novotel Monte Carlo is an excellent choice. Situated near the casino and shopping areas, the hotel offers modern rooms with contemporary decor. Amenities include a rooftop pool, fitness center, and a restaurant with a terrace. Novotel provides a convenient and stylish option for those seeking mid-range accommodation in Monaco.
Visit https://all.accor.com/hotel/5275/index.fr.shtml - Affordable: Hotel Forum Beausoleil
Situated in Beausoleil, just steps away from Monaco’s border, the hotel boasts a charming and intimate atmosphere, offering simple yet comfortable rooms with modern amenities. Guests can enjoy a terrace with panoramic views of Monaco, making it a pleasant spot to relax. While not directly in Monaco, the proximity and affordability make Hotel Forum an appealing choice for those looking for charm on a budget. The Principality is easily accessible by foot or a short public transportation ride from the hotel.
Visit https://www.forumhotel.net/
Whether you seek the pinnacle of luxury, a comfortable high quality stay, or an affordable option, the French Riviera has a diverse range of accommodations to suit every traveller’s preferences. From the glitz of Cannes to the charm of Antibes, the elegance of Nice, the relaxed atmosphere of Saint- Tropez, and the glamour of Monaco these recommendations will ensure you have a memorable and enjoyable stay on the beautiful Côte d’Azur.
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Remember that you often get a better deal going directly to the hotel rather than booking through one of the internet search engines
