15 May 2025 | Pure France
French Riviera Rentals: Your Guide to a Glamorous Coastal Escape
From luxury villas in Saint-Tropez to sea-view apartments in Nice and Cannes, French Riviera rentals offer the perfect base for sun-drenched holidays filled with beaches, Michelin-starred dining, markets, and scenic coastal drives.
Why Choose the French Riviera?
The French Riviera (Côte d’Azur) is one of the most sought-after holiday destinations in the world. With its glamorous beach resorts, vibrant cultural scene, and year-round sunshine, it’s no surprise that vacation rentals in this iconic region are in high demand.
Top Destinations for Holiday Rentals
Nice
Nice is the heart of the French Riviera—sunny, stylish, and endlessly inviting. It’s the kind of place where you can spend mornings exploring local markets, afternoons on the beach, and evenings dining under the stars. Whether you’re travelling as a couple, with family, or visiting for the first time, Nice offers the perfect mix of culture, comfort, and coastal beauty.
The famous Promenade des Anglais curves along the seafront, lined with palm trees and pastel buildings, while the Old Town buzzes with narrow alleys, colourful shutters, and the scent of fresh-baked socca. Art lovers will find inspiration in the Matisse and Chagall museums, and foodies can dive into Provençal cuisine in lively bistros and beachfront cafés.
Stay in a modern apartment with sweeping sea views or a Belle Époque villa perched in the hills for added charm. From beach days to gallery strolls, Nice is an easygoing base for exploring the best of the Côte d’Azur—with plenty of beauty right on your doorstep.
Cannes
Cannes is where the French Riviera rolls out the red carpet. Best known for its iconic film festival, this glamorous seaside town attracts movie stars, yacht owners, and travellers who love a taste of luxury. But there’s more to Cannes than flashing cameras and black-tie events.
Stroll along the famous Boulevard de la Croisette, where designer boutiques, palm-lined promenades, and grand hotels overlook golden beaches. Head up to Le Suquet—the old town—for narrow lanes, local restaurants, and sweeping views over the bay. The vibe is relaxed but refined, with just the right amount of Riviera glitz.
When it comes to staying in Cannes, you’ll find high-end apartments with sea-facing balconies, rooftop pools, and private terraces perfect for aperitifs at sunset. Whether you’re here for shopping, sunbathing, or simply soaking up the scene, Cannes delivers effortless style with a cinematic twist.
Saint-Tropez
Saint-Tropez is where rustic seaside charm meets high-end Riviera glamour. What was once a quiet fishing village has become one of the world’s most iconic holiday spots, known for its mix of luxury, style, and Provençal character. The old town still hums with charm—cobbled alleys, pastel façades, and local markets—while the harbour brims with sleek superyachts and buzzing waterfront cafés.
Spend your mornings browsing designer boutiques or wandering art galleries, then head to legendary beach clubs like Club 55 for a lazy lunch with your feet in the sand. As the sun sets, Saint-Tropez comes alive with its signature blend of fine dining and vibrant nightlife.
For places to stay, think hillside villas with infinity pools, private gardens, and sweeping views over the bay. Whether you’re after privacy, glamour, or a bit of both, Saint-Tropez offers a polished, sun-soaked escape that still knows how to let its hair down.
Antibes and Juan-les-Pins
Antibes has a charm that’s hard to resist—think winding cobbled lanes, a buzzing Provençal market, and a harbour filled with some of the world’s most impressive yachts. Its old town, wrapped in ancient stone walls, looks out over the sea, while the Picasso Museum, set in a historic seaside château, adds a splash of culture.
Wander just around the headland and you’ll hit Juan-les-Pins, Antibes’ livelier sibling. This beachside resort has a more relaxed, modern feel—with soft, sandy beaches, shady pine walks, and its famous summer jazz festival. It’s a favourite for families, couples, and anyone looking to unwind by the sea.
There’s no shortage of places to stay. You’ll find everything from stylish apartments and quiet villas to pretty townhouses tucked into residential streets. And with Nice, Cannes and even Monaco just a short drive away, it’s a great base for discovering the best of the Riviera—without the crowds.
What Types of Rentals Are Available?
Provencal Farmhouses: Rustic charm just inland from the coast.
Luxury Villas: Private pools, panoramic views, and concierge services.
Seafront Apartments: Perfect for couples or small families.
Tips for Booking a French Riviera Rental
Book early, especially for July and August
Choose locations based on transport options and beach access
Check whether your rental includes parking and air conditioning
Look for verified listings and guest reviews
FAQs
When is the best time to rent on the French Riviera? Late spring (May–June) and early autumn (September) offer great weather, fewer crowds, and lower prices compared to peak summer.
Are rentals more expensive during the Cannes Film Festival? Yes, prices surge during major events like the Cannes Film Festival and Monaco Grand Prix. Book well in advance if you're travelling during these times.
Do French Riviera rentals include air conditioning? Not all properties include air conditioning, so always check the listing details before booking, especially for summer stays.
Can I find beachfront rentals? Yes. Many apartments in Nice, Antibes, and Cannes are located directly on or close to the beach with sea views and balconies.
French Riviera
Renting a holiday home on the French Riviera with Pure France offers the perfect balance of relaxation, culture, and luxury. Whether you prefer the glitz of Saint-Tropez, the artistic soul of Nice, or the serenity of Antibes, there’s a rental for every traveller. Book early, choose wisely, and enjoy the Côte d’Azur in true French style.