There’s something irresistible about the French Riviera in summer. The sunlight seems to linger a little longer, the sea shimmers a little brighter, and every town along the coast oozes effortless glamour. From cliff-perched medieval villages to beachy hotspots made for yacht-hopping and rosé-sipping, the Côte d’Azur is where French elegance meets Mediterranean ease.
Whether you’re in search of art, architecture, or just a really good sea view, these ten towns offer the best of summer on the Riviera. And of course, I’ve added my top luxury stay in each one—because if you’re going to do the Riviera, you may as well do it right.
Nice
As the unofficial capital of the French Riviera, Nice offers a perfect blend of culture, coastline, and cosmopolitan flair. Stroll along the Promenade des Anglais, explore the old town’s baroque charm, and take in the city’s artistic legacy at the Matisse Museum. With its pebbled beaches, pastel facades, and lively café culture, Nice is both relaxed and refined.
My Fav Stay: Le Negresco – A Belle Époque icon overlooking the Baie des Anges, complete with antique-filled suites, a Michelin-starred restaurant, and a rotating collection of modern art.
Saint-Tropez
Saint-Tropez remains the crown jewel of the Côte d’Azur, famous for its beach clubs, designer boutiques, and sparkling Mediterranean waters. The town exudes glamour, but its old port, pastel houses, and Provençal markets remind you it was once a sleepy fishing village.
My Fav Stay: Château de la Messardière – A 19th-century hilltop palace with panoramic views, a Valmont spa, and a Rolls-Royce shuttle to Pampelonne Beach.
Èze
Perched between Nice and Monaco, Èze is a medieval village that feels like a storybook come to life. Wander its winding stone alleys, enjoy sweeping sea views from the exotic garden, and visit the Fragonard perfumery.
My Fav Stay: La Chèvre d’Or – A luxurious Relais & Châteaux property built into the cliffside, with Michelin-starred dining and breathtaking terraces.
Antibes
Antibes is a dreamy blend of art, history, and seaside charm, with ancient ramparts, the Picasso Museum, and a lively Provençal market. Its yacht-filled Port Vauban and quiet beaches offer something for everyone.
My Fav Stay: Hôtel du Cap-Eden-Roc – A legendary retreat on its own rocky peninsula, with a saltwater pool, elegant dining, and old-world glamour.
Menton
Nicknamed the “Pearl of France,” Menton is all lemon trees, Belle Époque architecture, and Riviera sunshine. It’s less crowded than its neighbors and famous for its citrus festival and lush gardens.
My Fav Stay: Hotel Napoléon – A chic boutique hotel just steps from the seafront, with art-filled interiors and balconies overlooking the Mediterranean.
Villefranche-sur-Mer
This colorful harbor town near Nice offers calm waters, baroque churches, and vibrant facades that glow at golden hour. Its tranquil beauty has attracted artists and filmmakers for decades.
My Fav Stay: Welcome Hotel – Overlooking the deep-blue bay, this cozy-luxe hotel has balconies in every room and a past guestbook filled with poets and painters.
Cassis
Though technically just west of the Riviera, Cassis is a coastal gem famous for its white cliffs, turquoise calanques, and charming harbor. It’s a favorite among French locals seeking beauty without the buzz.
My Fav Stay: Hotel Les Roches Blanches – A serene seaside escape with Art Deco flair, infinity pools, and unbeatable views of Cap Canaille.
Beaulieu-sur-Mer
Tucked between Nice and Monaco, this elegant enclave is known for its belle époque villas, palm-lined promenades, and a slower, refined pace. You’ll find top-tier dining and quiet beaches.
My Fav Stay: La Réserve de Beaulieu – An opulent seaside hotel with old-world prestige, a Michelin-starred restaurant, and views of the cerulean bay.
Saint-Paul-de-Vence
One of the oldest medieval towns on the Riviera, Saint-Paul-de-Vence is a haven for art lovers. Its cobbled streets are lined with galleries, and the spirit of Chagall and Matisse still lingers.
My Fav Stay: Le Mas de Pierre – A five-star resort in a lush Provençal setting, complete with a botanical spa, gourmet dining, and private terraces.
Cannes
Famous for its film festival, Cannes offers more than just red carpets. Its La Croisette promenade, sandy beaches, and designer shops make it a magnet for stylish summer travelers.
My Fav Stay: Hôtel Barrière Le Majestic – A glamorous beachfront icon with a private beach club, rooftop suites, and prime film-festival location.
Roquebrune-Cap-Martin
This serene village near Monaco offers clifftop hiking, medieval charm, and sea views without the crowds. Roquebrune’s castle and pine-scented paths are pure Côte d’Azur magic.
My Fav Stay: The Maybourne Riviera – A striking modernist hotel with sleek interiors, infinity-edge pools, and restaurants helmed by world-class chefs.
The French Riviera in summer is pure enchantment—where every winding street, sunlit beach, and terrace café invites you to slow down and soak up la belle vie. Whether you’re drawn to the cinematic glam of Cannes, the artistic soul of Saint-Paul-de-Vence, or the secret serenity of Roquebrune, each town offers its own brand of magic. Add a luxurious hotel stay to the mix, and you’ve got the perfect Côte d’Azur escape.