Top 10 Luxury Hotels on the French Riviera - 5-Star Retreats

Hôtel de Paris – Monaco

A legendary palace next to Monte Carlo’s casino, offering historic grandeur, sea-view suites, and a Michelin-starred restaurant.

• ⭐ 5★ Palace
• 🌍 Casino Square, Monaco
• 💶 €600–€2,500/night

"Great location and the staff were amazing!" – A.B., ★★★★★, Booking.com

Step into grandeur at Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo, Monaco’s most iconic palace. Nestled next to the Casino de Monte-Carlo, this legendary hotel boasts marble halls, Louis XVI-style suites, and sweeping Mediterranean views. Guests enjoy Michelin-starred dining at Le Louis XV and pampering at the Thermes Marins Monte-Carlo spa. It’s the ultimate choice for luxury travelers seeking history, elegance, and prestige in the heart of Monaco.

Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc – Antibes

Secluded clifftop luxury with private cabanas, infinity pools, and cinematic views of the Mediterranean.

• ⭐ 5★ Luxury Palace
• 🌍 Cap d’Antibes
• 💶 €800–€2,000/night

"Elegance at its finest. Worth every cent." – C.D., ★★★★★, Booking.com

A sanctuary for celebrities and luxury aficionados, Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc offers unrivaled exclusivity on the Riviera. Perched above the sea with private cabanas and saltwater pools carved into the cliffs, this estate delivers timeless glamour. With a long literary and cinematic heritage, it's the perfect retreat for honeymoons, high-profile stays, or unforgettable anniversaries.

InterContinental Carlton – Cannes

Historic Belle Époque icon with prime beachfront views and glamorous suites steps from La Croisette.

• ⭐ 5★
• 🌍 Boulevard de la Croisette, Cannes
• 💶 €400–€1,200/night

"Truly a Cannes classic with timeless charm." – F.E., ★★★★★, Booking.com

The InterContinental Carlton is the embodiment of Riviera sophistication. This Belle Époque masterpiece offers beachfront balconies, regal interiors, and a rich film festival legacy. Located on La Croisette, it’s a favorite of movie stars and dignitaries, blending classic French luxury with prime access to Cannes’ elite lifestyle.

Hotel Metropole Monte-Carlo – Monaco

Opulent interiors, designer pools, and a peaceful garden oasis steps from Monaco’s action.

• ⭐ 5★ Boutique
• 🌍 Near Casino Square, Monaco
• 💶 €500–€1,300/night

"A romantic escape unlike any other." – M.K., ★★★★★, Booking.com

Elegant and intimate, Hotel Metropole Monte-Carlo is a 5-star escape surrounded by lush gardens and luxury boutiques. Designed by Jacques Garcia, it offers a Chanel spa, award-winning dining by Joël Robuchon, and a dreamy pool by Karl Lagerfeld. It’s a favorite for romantic getaways and stylish stays just steps from Casino Square.

Grand-Hôtel du Cap-Ferrat – Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat

A Four Seasons retreat set on a pine-covered peninsula with sweeping terraces and cliffside pools.

• ⭐ 5★
• 🌍 Cap-Ferrat coastline
• 💶 €700–€1,800/night

"One of the most beautiful hotels I’ve ever stayed in." – J.S., ★★★★★, Booking.com

A Four Seasons property that defines Mediterranean opulence, Grand-Hôtel du Cap-Ferrat is set amid pine forests and perched above the sea. Guests indulge in gourmet cuisine, infinity-edge pools, and cliffside cabanas. Ideal for weddings, honeymoons, or any occasion that deserves the Riviera’s most scenic backdrop.

La Réserve de Beaulieu – Beaulieu-sur-Mer

Seaside elegance with Michelin-star dining and old-world Riviera glamour.

• ⭐ 5★
• 🌍 Seafront Beaulieu
• 💶 €450–€900/night

"Quiet luxury with stunning sea views." – T.L., ★★★★★, Booking.com

Combining old-world elegance with seafront serenity, La Réserve de Beaulieu is a discreet gem perfect for refined travelers. With a Michelin-starred restaurant and panoramic terraces, it’s ideal for peaceful luxury away from the crowds. Enjoy vintage charm, fine dining, and access to hidden coves in this tranquil Beaulieu retreat.

Five Seas Hotel – Cannes

Chic, modern boutique hotel just behind the Croisette with rooftop pool and contemporary spa.

• ⭐ 5★
• 🌍 Cannes Center
• 💶 €300–€600/night

"Sleek, stylish, and close to everything." – N.V., ★★★★☆, Booking.com

A contemporary twist on Riviera chic, Five Seas Hotel is a fashionable retreat near the Palais des Festivals. Guests enjoy rooftop lounging, a serene spa, and high-design interiors. It’s perfect for creatives, couples, and modern travelers looking for boutique luxury at the heart of Cannes.

Château Eza – Èze

Perched medieval retreat with stone walls, panoramic views, and gourmet cuisine overlooking the sea.

• ⭐ 5★ Boutique
• 🌍 Village of Èze
• 💶 €350–€700/night

"A fairy tale with a sea breeze." – R.A., ★★★★★, Booking.com

This medieval castle hotel offers cliffside views and cobblestone romance like nowhere else. Perched above the Côte d’Azur, Château Eza combines 400-year-old stone walls with candlelit dinners and balconies that float over the sea. It’s a fairytale setting for proposals, honeymoons, and lovers of old-world charm.

Cap Estel – Èze

Private peninsula, floor-to-ceiling windows, and total tranquility between Nice and Monaco.

• ⭐ 5★
• 🌍 Between Èze & Monaco
• 💶 €500–€1,100/night

"Exclusive and unforgettable Riviera experience." – A.B., ★★★★★, Booking.com

Cap Estel is an exclusive hideaway on a private peninsula between Monaco and Nice. With floor-to-ceiling windows, a gourmet restaurant, and world-class wellness facilities, it’s a quiet retreat for luxury purists. Perfect for ultra-private stays, luxury wellness, and panoramic serenity.

Hôtel Belles Rives – Juan-les-Pins

Art Deco beachfront escape with Gatsby-era flair, literary history, and a private dock.

• ⭐ 5★
• 🌍 Juan-les-Pins
• 💶 €280–€650/night

"Old Hollywood vibes by the sea." – E.L., ★★★★☆, Booking.com

Once home to F. Scott Fitzgerald, Hôtel Belles Rives is an Art Deco haven brimming with 1920s glamour. Its waterfront setting, literary legacy, and private jetty make it a standout for romantic nostalgia and Riviera sophistication. Ideal for fans of Gatsby-era elegance and sunlit indulgence.

Why the French Riviera Is the Ultimate Luxury Destination

Luxury on the French Riviera isn’t just about high-end hotels—it’s a lifestyle. From the glittering harbor of Monaco to the artistic charm of Saint-Paul-de-Vence, this region has attracted royalty, designers, and celebrities for over a century. The experience combines sun-drenched coastlines, five-star service, and timeless European style. When you book a luxury hotel here, you're immersing yourself in a curated atmosphere where every detail—linens, lighting, even your morning croissant—is part of the indulgence.

Each Riviera town brings its own flavor of opulence. Cannes is glitzy and fast-paced, especially during events. Monaco exudes old-world prestige mixed with modern wealth. Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat offers elite seclusion for those who prefer private estates over paparazzi flashes. Wherever you stay, expect elegance—from private helipads and fine art collections to rooftop infinity pools and beachside butler service.

Luxury Hotel Booking Tips: Insider Advice

1. Book early during festival season: Events like the Cannes Film Festival, Monaco Grand Prix, and July fireworks can cause prices to triple and availability to vanish. Book your luxury hotel at least 4–6 months in advance to lock in top-tier rooms.

2. Don’t skip the suites: On the Riviera, suites aren’t just about extra space—they offer panoramic balconies, private terraces, and exclusive access to spa services or lounges. These upgrades turn a luxury trip into an extraordinary one.

3. Consider chauffeur or yacht access: Many 5-star hotels offer private transfers, vintage car rentals, or dock space for yachts. Ask your concierge about custom add-ons to simplify arrival and elevate your stay.

4. Ask for packages: Some hotels offer deals that include massages, wine tastings, or exclusive beach access. These bundled offerings provide more value, especially during shoulder seasons (May–June or September).

What Amenities Define a Luxury Stay on the Riviera?

• 🌊 Direct Mediterranean views from private balconies or terraces
• 🛏️ Designer bedding, pillow menus, and butler service
• 🥂 Michelin-starred on-site restaurants or room-service menus curated by celebrity chefs
• 🧘 World-class spas offering thalassotherapy, seaweed wraps, or treatments with French skincare brands
• ⛱️ Private beaches or infinity-edge cliffside pools
• 🚁 Helipad access, yacht docking, or Rolls-Royce shuttles
• 🎨 Art galleries, literary history, or cultural heritage sites within the property

Each hotel offers its own flavor of indulgence—some lean into vintage Riviera glamour, others favor sleek minimalism with tech-integrated rooms. But all share a commitment to service and exclusivity that’s hard to replicate elsewhere.

Neighborhood Guide: Where to Stay Based on Your Style

FAQs – Luxury Hotels on the French Riviera

Is breakfast included at most luxury hotels?

Often yes, but not always. Many luxury hotels include a gourmet breakfast buffet or à la carte options. Some even serve breakfast on your private terrace with panoramic sea views.

Can I visit the spa without booking a treatment?

In most 5-star properties, spa access is reserved for hotel guests. However, some offer day passes or spa menus that allow limited use of facilities. Booking in advance is essential during high season.

Which hotels are best for honeymooners?

Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc in Antibes, Château Eza, and Grand-Hôtel du Cap-Ferrat are all favorites for romantic getaways. Look for couples’ spa packages and rooms with private plunge pools.

Are children welcome at luxury hotels on the Riviera?

Many hotels do accommodate families with children, offering activities, babysitting services, and family suites. However, a few properties are adults-only or designed for couples seeking quiet escapes—check policies before booking.

Do I need to speak French?

No—hotel staff at luxury properties typically speak fluent English, and often additional languages like Russian, Italian, or Arabic. That said, a simple "bonjour" goes a long way!

Final Thoughts: Living the Luxe Life on the Côte d’Azur

Choosing a luxury hotel on the French Riviera is about more than location—it’s about the full experience. Whether you’re chasing coastal calm or cinematic thrills, every town along the Côte d’Azur delivers in its own elegant way.

Book early, ask about extras, and don’t hesitate to contact your hotel for local tips. Many staff members are trained concierges and can arrange private tours, helicopter rides, or even table reservations at exclusive beach clubs.

So pack your best sunglasses, charge your camera, and prepare for an unforgettable Riviera escape where the only thing more breathtaking than the views is the way you’ll feel while experiencing them.

Beyond the Suite: Unique Luxury Experiences

Luxury on the French Riviera goes far beyond the hotel room. From curated wine tastings in hillside estates to private helicopter rides over the coastline, there's no shortage of unforgettable moments. Many five-star hotels partner with exclusive experience providers to offer bespoke outings:

• 🚁 **Helicopter tours** over Monaco, Saint-Tropez, or the Esterel cliffs
• 🍷 **Private vineyard tastings** in Bellet or Château de Crémat (near Nice)
• 🎨 **Art walks or gallery appointments** with local curators in Saint-Paul-de-Vence
• ⛵ **Yacht charters** to hidden coves and Lérins Islands with onboard catering

Whether you’re staying in a beachfront palace or a hillside boutique resort, these experiences add a once-in-a-lifetime layer to your Riviera retreat. Hotel concierges can customize excursions for honeymoons, anniversaries, or even executive retreats with seamless professionalism.

3-Day Luxury Itinerary on the French Riviera

If you're short on time but want the full experience, here’s how to live the luxe life in just three days:

Day 1: Glamour in Cannes

• Check in to a beachfront suite at Hôtel Barrière Le Majestic
• Enjoy breakfast on your balcony overlooking La Croisette
• Private shopping appointment at high-end boutiques: Chanel, Cartier, and Dior
• Lunch at BFire by Mauro Colagreco (on-site or beachfront)
• Sunset cocktails and dinner at a Michelin-starred rooftop restaurant

Day 2: Helicopter to Monaco & Monte Carlo Magic

• Fly to Monaco by helicopter — just 7 minutes from Cannes
• Explore the Casino, Port Hercules, and the Prince’s Palace
• Dine at Le Louis XV – Alain Ducasse for a 3-star lunch
• Return to your hotel for an evening spa treatment

Day 3: Art & Seclusion in Cap-Ferrat

• Transfer to Grand-Hôtel du Cap-Ferrat
• Private tour of Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild
• Afternoon yacht charter with catered seafood lunch
• Evening massage, followed by wine on your cliffside terrace

This mini-itinerary balances opulence with relaxation, ideal for a romantic escape or milestone celebration.

Suggested Day Itinerary for Luxury Travelers

Morning: Champagne breakfast overlooking the sea, followed by a private boat ride to Îles de Lérins.

Lunch: Enjoy gourmet cuisine at a beach club in Cap d’Antibes.

Afternoon: Unwind at a rooftop spa or browse boutiques in Monaco or Cannes.

Evening: Sunset aperitif on your terrace, then dine at a Michelin-starred restaurant along the coast.

Luxury Shopping & Cultural Pairings

No luxury hotel experience is complete without indulging in local craftsmanship and haute couture. From Monte Carlo’s Carré d’Or shopping district to Antibes' art-filled backstreets, the French Riviera is a paradise for high-end and one-of-a-kind purchases.

Some hotels even offer exclusive shopping experiences: private hours at flagship stores, in-suite fittings, or vintage curation services. Looking for something timeless? Visit Fragonard perfumeries in Grasse, or explore limited-edition art books at Librairie Masséna in Nice. Local designers like Inès de la Fressange also blend Riviera fashion with Parisian edge, ideal for stylish souvenirs.

If you're traveling during peak summer, many hotels offer chauffeur services to regional art festivals, outdoor opera nights, and private villa concerts—fusing luxury living with the Riviera's rich artistic heritage.

Final Words: A Place Where Luxury Feels Effortless

What sets the French Riviera apart from other luxury destinations is how effortless it all feels. The region has perfected the art of quiet elegance—offering opulence without excess, service without stiffness, and beauty without filters. Whether you're waking up to views of the Mediterranean or sipping vintage Champagne in a stone-walled garden, it never feels forced. It just feels right.

So if you're ready to slow down, be pampered, and soak in one of Europe’s most captivating coastlines, a stay at a luxury hotel on the Côte d’Azur is your golden ticket. Plan ahead, travel light, and leave space in your suitcase—you’ll want to bring a piece of Riviera magic home with you.

When to Visit: Best Seasons for a Luxury Stay

The French Riviera enjoys a Mediterranean climate year-round, but each season offers a different luxury experience. Summer (June to August) is high season—expect vibrant nightlife, packed beach clubs, and celebrity sightings during events like the Cannes Film Festival or Jazz à Juan. Hotel rates are highest, but the atmosphere is electric, and every service is in full swing.

Spring (April to May) is ideal for travelers seeking warmth without the crowds. Gardens bloom across Cap-Ferrat, and luxury hotels often introduce seasonal menus, spa packages, and early booking promotions. Autumn (September to October) delivers golden sunsets and grape harvests, making it the perfect time for wine lovers or culinary-focused getaways.

Winter (November to March) is quieter and more serene. Many luxury hotels offer heated pools, festive decor, and cozy gourmet dining. Some close for renovations, but others use the season to offer wellness retreats, long-stay discounts, and holiday events with fewer tourists.

Whichever season you choose, planning your stay around your interests—festivals, food, romance, or relaxation—ensures a rich and rewarding Riviera escape.