Exploring the French Riviera: Luxury Hotels and Exclusive Experiences

Introduction to Luxury Holidays to the French Riviera

Luxury holidays to the French Riviera are defined by elegance, glamour, and unforgettable moments along one of Europe’s most captivating coastlines. From the shimmering waters of the Mediterranean to the sunlit boulevards lined with palms, the Riviera invites travellers seeking style, comfort, and a taste of refined indulgence. This is not just about visiting a destination. It is about stepping into a world where luxury is a way of life.

The Riviera has long attracted artists, writers, and celebrities. Its blend of historic towns, exclusive resorts, and pristine beaches creates an environment where you can move seamlessly between cultural charm and modern sophistication. Each town offers its own character, from the art scene in Nice to the timeless allure of Saint-Tropez.

You might already picture yourself sipping chilled wine at a beachfront restaurant, wandering through a perfume-filled garden in Grasse, or arriving by yacht in Monaco. These experiences combine to make the French Riviera a destination that never loses its allure.

Nice: The Gateway to the Riviera

Nice is often the first stop on luxury holidays to the French Riviera. The city offers a perfect introduction, balancing cosmopolitan style with Provençal charm. Its Promenade des Anglais is lined with grand hotels, each commanding sweeping views over the Bay of Angels.

Stay at Hotel Negresco, a property recognised as a landmark of Riviera luxury. Its ornate façade and eclectic interiors make every stay memorable. Guests enjoy Michelin-starred dining, a private beach club, and art pieces that rival museum collections.

Booking through Awake & Wander Luxury Travel gives you access to exclusive offers at hotels such as these. We maintain strong relationships with our suppliers, which means we can highlight the best packages tailored to your trip. Ask us about the range of options available for Nice and beyond.

While in Nice, stroll through the Old Town with its pastel houses and lively markets. Visit the Matisse Museum to discover how the city inspired one of the greatest artists of the 20th century. End your evening on a rooftop bar as the sun sets over the Mediterranean.

Cannes: Red Carpet Luxury

Cannes is synonymous with film, fashion, and refined living. This glamorous city sets the tone for luxury holidays to the French Riviera with its blend of exclusivity and seaside relaxation. The Croisette, its famous boulevard, is lined with boutiques, fine dining restaurants, and legendary hotels.

One of the most sought-after addresses is Hotel Martinez, part of the Hyatt collection. Known for its art deco design and beachfront location, it offers suites with private terraces, a world-class spa, and access to one of the Riviera’s most stylish beach clubs.

Awake & Wander Luxury Travel can arrange tailored stays here, ensuring every element of your visit reflects your style and preferences. From VIP transfers to private dining reservations, we create a seamless experience from start to finish.

During your stay, you might choose to hire a yacht for the day, explore the nearby Lerins Islands, or simply enjoy a long lunch on the beach. Cannes offers more than glamour—it provides the perfect base for those who want both relaxation and indulgence.

Saint-Tropez: Timeless Riviera Glamour

No list of luxury holidays to the French Riviera would be complete without Saint-Tropez. Once a small fishing village, it has become an international playground for the rich and famous. Despite its popularity, the town retains an authentic charm, especially when explored away from the harbour.

Stay at Château de la Messardière, a palatial retreat overlooking Pampelonne Bay. This hotel blends French elegance with Mediterranean ease. Its rooms open onto private terraces, while the spa, pools, and landscaped gardens create a setting of complete relaxation.

Through Awake & Wander Luxury Travel, you can access exclusive arrangements at Saint-Tropez hotels, whether you seek a romantic getaway or a lively summer escape. We can suggest offers that enhance your holiday and make your time here truly special.

Spend your mornings at a private beach club, your afternoons browsing boutiques, and your evenings dining in Michelin-starred restaurants. Saint-Tropez delivers a balance of glamour and leisure that has kept visitors returning year after year.

Monaco: The Pinnacle of Riviera Prestige

Monaco embodies the prestige of luxury holidays to the French Riviera. Though small in size, this principality is known for its glittering casinos, world-class events, and exclusive lifestyle. Every corner radiates refinement, from the marina filled with superyachts to the designer boutiques in Monte Carlo.

One of the city’s most renowned hotels is the Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo. Set on Casino Square, it offers legendary service, suites with Mediterranean views, and access to the Thermes Marins Monte-Carlo spa. Dining here is a highlight, with Louis XV – Alain Ducasse at the helm of its three-Michelin-starred restaurant.

Booking through Awake & Wander Luxury Travel ensures your Monaco experience includes thoughtful touches tailored to you. Whether that’s securing tickets to the Grand Prix or arranging a helicopter transfer from Nice, we make your holiday as polished as the destination itself.

During your stay, you might take a private tour of the Prince’s Palace, enjoy an evening at the opera, or simply people-watch from a café terrace. In Monaco, even the simplest moments feel extraordinary.

Antibes: Art, History, and Seaside Elegance

Antibes blends historic charm with modern refinement, making it a distinctive stop for luxury holidays to the French Riviera. Its Old Town is wrapped in ancient ramparts, while its port remains one of the most impressive in the region. Antibes is also celebrated for its links to Picasso, who once lived and painted here.

Stay at Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc, one of the Riviera’s most iconic properties. Surrounded by pine trees and gardens, it offers an unmatched setting overlooking the Mediterranean. Its saltwater infinity pool carved into the rocks is a signature experience, while its dining options bring French gastronomy to life.

With Awake & Wander Luxury Travel, you can plan a stay that captures both the elegance and intimacy of Antibes. Our partnerships give us access to offers and upgrades that make your holiday stand out, whether you’re seeking a romantic retreat or a family escape.

Explore the Picasso Museum, stroll through the Provençal market, or enjoy a private sailing trip along the coast. Antibes delivers a more relaxed side of Riviera life while still embracing luxury at every turn.

Menton: Riviera’s Serene Gem

Menton sits close to the Italian border, often described as the “Pearl of France.” Known for its gardens, citrus groves, and pastel-coloured houses, it offers a gentler pace compared with the more famous Riviera towns. Yet it still retains an understated sense of luxury that appeals to travellers seeking tranquillity.

Stay at Hotel Napoleon, a boutique property where modern comfort meets Mediterranean charm. Guests enjoy elegant rooms, a palm-shaded pool, and easy access to the town’s beaches.

Awake & Wander Luxury Travel can arrange holidays that showcase Menton’s quiet elegance. Whether it’s private guided tours through the exotic gardens, dining reservations at Mirazur (one of the world’s top restaurants), or curated excursions into nearby Italy, we ensure your trip feels uniquely designed for you.

Strolling through Menton’s narrow streets, you’ll find pastel villas, fragrant lemon trees, and peaceful squares. For those who prefer calm over crowds, Menton is the Riviera’s hidden treasure.

Èze: A Hilltop Haven

Èze is one of the most enchanting stops on luxury holidays to the French Riviera. Perched high above the Mediterranean, this medieval village offers panoramic views that stretch for miles. Cobblestone lanes wind past art galleries, boutique shops, and stone houses covered in ivy.

Stay at Château Eza, a five-star hotel set within a converted 400-year-old residence. Its suites feature private terraces where you can look out over the sparkling Côte d’Azur. Dining here is unforgettable, with a Michelin-starred restaurant that seems suspended between sky and sea.

Awake & Wander Luxury Travel can tailor your stay in Èze to combine luxury with authenticity. From private guided walks through the Jardin Exotique to helicopter transfers linking you with Monaco or Nice, we make this hilltop retreat accessible and stress-free.

Èze is perfect for travellers who want a quieter experience without losing the sense of Riviera grandeur. Each moment here feels both intimate and extraordinary.

Villefranche-sur-Mer: Coastal Charm with an Exclusive Touch

Just east of Nice, Villefranche-sur-Mer is a picturesque town wrapped around a deep natural harbour. Its colourful houses cascade down towards the waterfront, while luxury yachts glide into port. Though smaller than its neighbours, Villefranche offers a unique blend of charm and sophistication.

Stay at Welcome Hotel, which has long been a favourite with artists and travellers. Each room overlooks the bay, and the setting combines coastal elegance with warm hospitality.

Through Awake & Wander Luxury Travel, you can enhance your stay in Villefranche with special touches. Private boat excursions, wine tours into the surrounding hills, or reservations at local fine dining restaurants can all be arranged.

Villefranche is a town to savour slowly. Walk along the waterfront promenade, enjoy an afternoon at a beach club, and spend the evening dining on fresh seafood as the harbour lights flicker across the water.

Exclusive Experiences Beyond the Resort

Luxury holidays to the French Riviera are not only about hotels. They are also about experiences that connect you with the culture, cuisine, and beauty of the region.

Some of the most memorable activities include:

• Private yacht charters for exploring hidden coves and islands.
• Wine tastings at Provençal vineyards, where local rosé and rare vintages are poured.
• Perfume workshops in Grasse, the perfume capital of the world.
• Cooking classes with Riviera chefs, learning traditional recipes in an intimate setting.
• Helicopter tours that reveal the coastline from above.
• Art trails, visiting the galleries and studios that inspired Picasso, Matisse, and Chagall.

Awake & Wander Luxury Travel designs itineraries that go beyond the expected. These curated experiences ensure your time on the Riviera feels truly personal and memorable. For insider travel information and regional inspiration, refer to the official Côte d’Azur tourism site.

Each Riviera town offers a different atmosphere, yet they all share the promise of indulgence and discovery. The luxury lies in the detail, and that’s what makes this destination so enduringly popular.

Our Take:

“Luxury holidays to the French Riviera are about more than the destination. They’re about personal touches, curated experiences, and the peace of mind that comes from booking with experts who understand what luxury travel should feel like.”

Seasonal Travel Tips for the French Riviera

Luxury holidays to the French Riviera can be shaped by the time of year you choose to travel. Each season offers a different atmosphere, and knowing when to go helps you create the holiday that matches your vision.

• Spring (March to May): A quieter season with mild weather and fewer crowds. Gardens are in bloom, markets are lively, and it’s an excellent time for exploring without the peak-season rush.
• Summer (June to August): The Riviera at its most glamorous. Expect busy beaches, vibrant nightlife, and iconic events such as the Cannes Film Festival and Monaco Grand Prix. This is the season for those who enjoy energy and spectacle.
• Autumn (September to November): Warm seas and softer light make autumn perfect for late holidays. Vineyards nearby are in harvest, and the pace slows just enough for a more relaxed luxury break.
• Winter (December to February): While quieter, the Riviera retains its charm. Monaco sparkles with festive lights, and nearby Alpine resorts mean you can blend seaside relaxation with mountain escapes.

Awake & Wander Luxury Travel helps you select the season that matches your interests. Whether you want vibrant summer energy or a peaceful spring retreat, your holiday can be shaped around your preferences.

Gastronomy and Cultural Indulgence

Food and culture are central to luxury holidays to the French Riviera. The region is a blend of French sophistication and Mediterranean warmth, and this comes alive in its cuisine and cultural life.

Some highlights include:

• Michelin-starred dining: Restaurants in Monaco, Nice, and Saint-Tropez offer world-class menus. Alain Ducasse’s Louis XV in Monte Carlo remains a standout.
• Provençal markets: Wander through stalls filled with olives, cheeses, lavender, and fresh seafood. Each market visit connects you to the Riviera’s culinary roots.
• Cultural festivals: From jazz in Nice to lemon celebrations in Menton, the Riviera calendar is packed with vibrant events.
• Art heritage: Visit museums dedicated to Picasso, Chagall, and Matisse. Many of these artists found inspiration in the Riviera’s light and landscapes.

When booking through Awake & Wander Luxury Travel, we can secure tables at sought-after restaurants, arrange private guided tours, and even plan bespoke cultural experiences that align with your passions.

Why Choose Awake & Wander for Your French Riviera Holiday

Luxury holidays to the French Riviera are best enjoyed with the support of a travel partner who understands every detail. Awake & Wander Luxury Travel combines expert knowledge with a commitment to service that makes planning effortless.

When you book with us, you’ll enjoy:

• Tailor-made itineraries designed around your interests.
• Financial protection through ATOL, Protected Trust Services, Supplier Failure Insurance, and Scheduled Airline Failure Insurance.
• Access to exclusive hotel offers and upgrades.
• Personal recommendations based on genuine experience.
• Peace of mind knowing that support is only a phone call or message away.

Your French Riviera holiday is more than a booking. It’s an experience crafted with care, attention, and trust.

A Holiday Crafted for You

The French Riviera is a destination of endless possibilities. Whether you imagine yourself on the beaches of Cannes, the hilltops of Èze, or the harbours of Villefranche, each location offers something unique. Luxury here is not just about hotels; it’s about the way your holiday is shaped around you.

Awake & Wander Luxury Travel makes this possible. From the moment you enquire, we work to understand what matters most to you. Then we match you with the finest hotels, the most memorable experiences, and the confidence that your holiday is protected from start to finish.

To start planning your Riviera escape, call us on 01495 400011 or use the holiday enquiry form on our website. You can also create and book your own bespoke holiday online with Jamie Wake Travel. Whether you prefer to take control or let us design everything for you, we are always here to make your journey unforgettable.

Frequently Asked Questions