French Riviera Vacation Rentals
Explore 619 rental homes and villas in French Riviera for your next vacation or business travel. With private vacation home rentals, enjoy a more personalized stay and a wide range of amenities such as Homes with Pools, Air Condition Homes and Best Affordable Homes. With a wide range of homes to offer, pricing can start as low as $45 per night with homes containing as many as 15 bedrooms and 17 bathrooms. However you're looking to experience your stay, Homes and Villas by Marriott has your next vacation home waiting.
Types of vacation rentals in French Riviera
Where to stay in French Riviera
Booking a vacation rental in French Riviera?
Here are some things to know to support your visit:
French Riviera Overview
Immerse yourself in the allure of the French Riviera, a quintessential Mediterranean haven that seamlessly blends the charm of its natural landscapes with the sophistication of its cultural heritage. The Côte d'Azur, stretching from the sun-drenched southern coast of France to the Italian border, is a tapestry of azure waters, golden beaches, and towns brimming with history and glamour.
In Nice, the heart of the Riviera, the allure of the azure Baie des Anges is best enjoyed from the storied Promenade des Anglais. The city's Old Town, with its vibrant markets and narrow alleys, invites exploration, while the luminous light of the region has inspired masterpieces now housed in the Matisse Museum and the Marc Chagall National Museum.
Cannes, synonymous with cinematic splendor, offers more than its famed film festival. The Croisette, lined with palms, beckons for leisurely strolls, while the sandy shores invite relaxation. Venture to the Îles de Lérins for a serene escape or ascend to Le Suquet for a glimpse into the town's medieval roots.
Monaco, a sovereign enclave of splendor, is renowned for the Monte Carlo Casino and the prestigious Grand Prix. Yet beyond the glitz, cultural treasures like the Oceanographic Museum and the exotic gardens await discovery.
Antibes juxtaposes its historic charm with modern allure, where the Picasso Museum pays homage to the artist's legacy and the Cap d'Antibes offers coastal walks with stunning vistas.
For those seeking serenity, the perched villages of Èze and Saint-Paul de Vence provide a retreat into medieval times, complete with art galleries and panoramic views. The natural splendor extends to the Esterel mountains' red cliffs and the tranquil Mercantour National Park.
The Riviera's culinary delights mirror its varied terrain, from casual seaside bistros serving the day's catch to exquisite Michelin-starred establishments. Local markets overflow with the flavors of Provence, ideal for a beach picnic or a meal on a private terrace.
Enhance your Riviera experience by staying in a private home, a sanctuary where you can savor the region's beauty in seclusion. Many homes offer swimming pools, perfect for a refreshing dip after a day of exploration, and pet-friendly options ensure your furry companions can join in the adventure. With a private residence, you'll have the luxury of space and comfort, making your stay on the French Riviera truly unforgettable. Whether it's the allure of the waterfront or the cultural tapestry woven through each town, the French Riviera remains an enchanting destination that promises a blend of relaxation, luxury, and artistic inspiration.
Cultural Attractions in French Riviera
The French Riviera, or Côte d'Azur, is a dazzling destination for those who revel in cultural richness, offering an array of experiences that cater to lovers of the arts, history, and local customs. This Mediterranean coastline in the southeast corner of France is not only renowned for its stunning beaches and glamorous lifestyle but also for its deep artistic heritage and vibrant cultural scene.
Begin your cultural journey in Nice, the Riviera's largest city, where the pastel-colored facades of the old town and the bustling flower market in Cours Saleya provide a picturesque backdrop for exploring local customs. The Musée Matisse houses a comprehensive collection of works by Henri Matisse, a testament to the artist's connection to the region. Meanwhile, the Musée d'Art Moderne et d'Art Contemporain (MAMAC) showcases modern masterpieces, and the Marc Chagall National Museum is dedicated to the works of this iconic artist.
Venture to the charming town of Antibes to visit the Picasso Museum, located in the historic Château Grimaldi. Here, you can admire the works Picasso created during his stay in 1946. Antibes also hosts an annual jazz festival, Jazz à Juan, in the pine grove of the Gould Park, where jazz legends have performed under the stars.
In Cannes, known for its international film festival, you can experience the glitz and glamour of the cinema world. Stroll along La Croisette and take in the opulent atmosphere, or visit Le Suquet, the old quarter, for a more authentic taste of local life.
The medieval village of Saint-Paul de Vence is a haven for art enthusiasts. Its cobblestone streets are lined with art galleries and studios. The Fondation Maeght is a must-visit for its modern and contemporary art collections and outdoor sculptures set amidst a tranquil garden.
Grasse, the perfume capital of the world, offers a sensory cultural experience. Visit the Musée International de la Parfumerie to learn about the history of fragrance, and perhaps create your own signature scent at one of the town's perfumeries.
For a historical excursion, the Roman ruins in Fréjus and the ancient Trophée d'Auguste in La Turbie provide insights into the Riviera's past. Live music thrives here too, with venues and festivals celebrating everything from classical to modern genres.
The French Riviera's cultural offerings are as diverse as its landscape, blending the allure of the sea with a rich tapestry of art, history, and tradition. It's a destination where every visit enriches the soul and ignites the senses, making it an ideal retreat for cultural connoisseurs.
Family friendly activities in French Riviera
The French Riviera, with its sparkling coastline and vibrant culture, is a treasure trove of experiences for families traveling with children. From the sun-kissed beaches to the interactive museums, there's something to captivate the imagination of every young traveler.
Begin your adventure in the city of Nice, where the Promenade des Anglais offers a long stretch of pebbly beach for children to play and paddle in the shallow waters of the Mediterranean. The nearby Promenade du Paillon is a park with water jets and playgrounds, perfect for cooling off and letting kids run free.
Marineland in Antibes is a must-visit for families. This marine park features dolphin and orca shows, a shark tunnel, and a polar exhibit with penguins and polar bears, providing both entertainment and educational value.
For a touch of nature and discovery, the Phoenix Parc Floral de Nice presents a delightful botanical garden and zoo where children can encounter exotic birds and animals, and explore the giant greenhouse with its tropical climate and diverse plant life.
Venture into the hinterlands to the village of Villeneuve-Loubet and spend a day at Le Village des Fous, an amusement park with a twist. It's filled with quirky and inventive games and play structures that challenge the mind and body, offering a unique and fun experience for the whole family.
The French Riviera also caters to young explorers with a penchant for history and science. The Musée Océanographique de Monaco is an oceanographic museum that not only showcases marine life but also offers interactive workshops where children can learn about the sea and its inhabitants.
For a leisurely family day out, take a stroll through the Jardin Exotique de Monaco. This garden is not only a visual delight with its stunning collection of cacti and succulents, but it also offers a children's playground and panoramic views of the Principality.
Don't forget to indulge in the simple pleasures of the Riviera, like enjoying a gelato while wandering the charming streets of Antibes' old town, or taking a mini-train tour around the picturesque locales, which is always a hit with the kids.
The French Riviera combines the allure of the sea, the charm of coastal towns, and a wealth of attractions that promise a memorable family holiday filled with discovery, fun, and relaxation.
Outdoor activities in French Riviera
The French Riviera, or Côte d'Azur, is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers, offering a stunning mix of coastal beauty, mountainous terrain, and lush countryside. The region's Mediterranean climate provides the perfect backdrop for a variety of outdoor activities year-round.
One of the Riviera's most iconic natural wonders is the Calanques National Park, located between Marseille and Cassis. This area boasts dramatic limestone cliffs that plunge into the crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean. Hiking trails wind through the park, offering breathtaking views and access to secluded beaches. Kayaking and boating are also popular ways to explore the calanques' hidden coves and marine life.
For those seeking a panoramic view of the Riviera, a trip to the Esterel Massif is a must. This volcanic mountain range is known for its striking red rocks and dense forests. Hiking and mountain biking trails crisscross the area, providing ample opportunities to enjoy the natural beauty and perhaps catch a glimpse of the coastline from a high vantage point.
The Mercantour National Park, located just a short drive from the coast, is another gem for nature lovers. It offers a diverse landscape of alpine peaks, verdant valleys, and clear mountain lakes. The park is home to a rich variety of wildlife, including wolves, chamois, and golden eagles. Hiking is a popular activity here, with trails ranging from easy walks to challenging treks.
For a unique outdoor experience, visit the Verdon Gorge, often referred to as Europe's Grand Canyon. The turquoise-green river cuts through cliffs up to 700 meters high, creating a spectacular setting for hiking, rock climbing, and river sports such as rafting and canyoning.
The French Riviera is also renowned for its gardens, which offer a more leisurely way to connect with nature. The Exotic Garden of Monaco and the Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild on Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat are just two examples where visitors can wander through beautifully landscaped grounds and enjoy a variety of plant species.
Lastly, the region's coastline itself is a natural wonder, with miles of beaches and the azure waters of the Mediterranean Sea inviting sunbathing, swimming, sailing, and diving. The coastal paths, such as the one from Cap d'Ail to Monaco, provide scenic walks with stunning sea views.
In the French Riviera, the allure of the outdoors is matched by the region's natural beauty, offering endless opportunities for adventure and relaxation in one of the world's most picturesque settings.
Weather in French Riviera
The French Riviera, or Côte d'Azur, is renowned for its Mediterranean climate, which offers mild winters and warm, sunny summers. This glamorous stretch of coastline in the southeast of France is a year-round destination, with each season offering its own unique appeal.
Winter, from December to February, is the mildest of the French Riviera's seasons, with average temperatures ranging from 8°C to 13°C. While it's cooler than other times of the year, it's still pleasant compared to much of Europe, and you'll find fewer tourists. Precipitation is moderate, and it's not uncommon to enjoy sunny days, making it a good time for leisurely strolls along the promenade.
Spring, from March to May, sees the temperatures gradually increase, with averages from 13°C to 18°C. This is a delightful time to visit as the region begins to bloom with vibrant colors, and the weather is generally mild with lower humidity. Rainfall is less frequent, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the picturesque towns dotting the coastline.
Summer, from June to August, is the peak season on the French Riviera, with average temperatures ranging from 20°C to 27°C. The warm weather and clear skies are perfect for beach-goers, and the sea temperature is inviting for swimming. However, this is also when the region is busiest, and humidity can be higher, so be prepared for crowds at popular spots like Nice, Cannes, and Saint-Tropez.
Autumn, from September to November, offers a respite from the summer heat with temperatures cooling to a comfortable range of 15°C to 23°C. The crowds begin to thin out, and the sea remains warm enough for swimming in early autumn. Rainfall increases slightly, but there are still plenty of sunny days to enjoy the outdoor cafes and stunning scenery.
The most popular weather conditions are prevalent in late spring to early summer and early autumn, when the temperatures are warm but not too hot, and the crowds are less dense. The climate is especially pleasant during May, June, and September, offering the perfect balance for enjoying the beaches, cultural events, and the natural beauty of the French Riviera. Whether you're looking to relax by the sea, explore charming hilltop villages, or indulge in the region's culinary delights, these months provide an ideal setting for an unforgettable experience.
Transportation in French Riviera
The French Riviera, or Côte d'Azur, is a dazzling stretch of coastline in the southeastern corner of France, known for its azure waters, glamorous resorts, and picturesque towns. Travelers are drawn to its Mediterranean climate, cultural festivals, and the allure of its chic cities like Nice, Cannes, and the independent microstate of Monaco.
Arriving at the French Riviera is typically done by air, with the Nice Côte d'Azur Airport being the main gateway. It is the third busiest airport in France and offers numerous flights to and from cities across Europe and beyond. From the airport, visitors can take buses, taxis, or ride-sharing services to reach their specific destinations along the Riviera.
For those who prefer the romance of the rails, the SNCF (French National Railway Company) operates a comprehensive train service that connects the French Riviera with the rest of France and neighboring countries. The TGV (high-speed train) can whisk you from Paris to Nice in just under six hours. Additionally, the scenic coastal train routes offer breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea and are a popular choice for those traveling between towns along the coast.
Once on the Riviera, getting around is convenient thanks to a well-developed public transportation system. The Lignes d'Azur buses connect Nice with surrounding towns and cities, while the tramway in Nice offers a modern and efficient way to navigate the city. For those staying in Cannes, the Palm Bus network services the city and its environs.
Car rentals are widely available for those who wish to explore at their own pace, though it's worth noting that during peak season, the roads can be quite congested, and parking can be a challenge, especially in the smaller coastal towns.
The French Riviera is also a haven for yachting, with many visitors choosing to arrive or travel along the coast by boat. The region's numerous marinas accommodate everything from small sailboats to luxurious super-yachts.
In terms of walkability, many of the towns and cities along the French Riviera are best explored on foot. Places like the Promenade des Anglais in Nice, the Croisette in Cannes, and the narrow streets of medieval towns like Èze are pedestrian-friendly and offer a more intimate experience of the Riviera's charm.
In conclusion, the French Riviera offers a variety of transportation options that cater to the needs of every traveler. Whether arriving by air, exploring by train, cruising the coast by boat, or meandering through the streets on foot, the Riviera is accessible and navigable, promising a journey as delightful as the destination itself.