Hand-picked holiday villas in the Cote d'Azur - French Riviera

View over Eze in the French Riviera with the Mediterranean in the background

VIEW ALL OUR COTE D'AZUR HOLIDAY VILLAS

The Cote d'Azur, or French Riviera, is famous as one of Europe's top holiday destinations as well as a playground for the rich and famous. Of course, everyone has heard of the extravagant beach resort of Saint Tropez, the world-famous festivals of Cannes and the glitz and glamour that indulges the principality of Monaco; but there is so much more.

From affordable apartment rentals and holiday villas to luxury properties and sumptuous mansions and chateaux, the French Riviera has something to offer for everyone, whether you're looking to spend time as a family, or prefer to spend your days lazing by a pool or on the beach, clubbing on one of St Tropez famous beaches or even celebrity spotting at one of the many festivals in Cannes. Sightsee the vibrant city of Nice, one of many picturesque hilltop villages like Grasse, Vence or Eze or enjoy yacht-watching in the marinas of Monaco, Antibes or Villefranche - the Cote d'Azur has no limits.

Our Holiday Villas, Chateaux and Apartments in the Cote d'Azur

At South France Holiday Villas we have over 150 properties to rent in this beautiful region, with something for every budget. Whether you're looking for a romantic retreat for two, a family getaway, or something luxurious for a large group or event, we have properties with private grounds and gardens, infinity pools, and ocean views; everything you would want and expect for a visit to this region known for its opulent lifestyle and stunning scenery!

Our properties are hand-selected and vetted by our experienced team. If you are looking for something in particular, we recommend you contact us and we can work with you to find the perfect place for your holiday in the French Riveria.

- Click an image below to view our properties in that area of the Cote d'Azur -

Old buildings in the City of Antibes as the sun sets over the Mediterranea sea.

Boats in the Bay of Villefranche with pink flowers in the foreground.

Sunset over the bay of Monaco with the buildings lit up from below and the Mediteranean sea behind the town.

Looking across the bay at Frejus on the Mediterranean coast.

A view of the wide sandy beach in Nice with boats moored on the Mediterranean sea, white waves crashing on the shore, and a palm-lined beach front stretching into the distance.

Looking across the valley to the town of Grasse.

Boats and cloudy skies in the Cote d'Azur.

A view of Vence in the Cote d’Azur with mature trees in the foreground looking across to the old town with the Mediterranean sea in the distance.

Explore the Cote d'Azur Region

Are you looking to holiday in the Cote d'Azur but aren't sure where to go? Our Destination Guides will tell you all your need to know.

The French Riviera has no defined borders but is in essence the strip of coast at the very south of the Provence-Alpes-Cote d'Azur administrative region, divided in the Var and Alpes Maritimes departments. Depending on who you ask, it roughly runs from the Italian border down to Toulon, although many would argue that the 'real' French Riviera is the 20-or-so-kilometer hyperbole that gently slants down from the Italian border. The landscapes here are most impressive, to say the least, as roads are carved out of the near vertical cliffs and the views over the Mediterranean are simply stunning. Over endless winding roads you'll drive past oranges and lemons ripening against a backdrop of the snow-topped peaks of the Alps. Further West the landscapes slowly become slightly tamer, but the beaches do become longer, wider and simply nicer.

Monaco, Menton and Roquebrune-Cap-Martin

Right on the Italian border is Menton, a wonderful sun-trap that doesn't only do wonders for the olive and citrus trees, but also the many tourists that spend their summer here. Famous for its colourful seaside façade and marina, it has a wonderful Old Town, beautiful Mediterranean gardens and some lovely pebble beaches. For the region, rental prices are affordable. South of Menton is the headland of the more exclusive Roquebrune-Cap-Martin, which throughout history has been a particular favourite spot for various royalty. Following the winding, stunning road you'll reach the city-state of Monaco. This tiny city-state is a known tax-haven and is famous for its rich and lavish residents, mirrored by rental prices for holiday accommodation. In the hills above Monaco is the upmarket village of La Turbie, famous for its jaw-dropping views over Monaco and the Med.

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Villefranche, Eze and Beaulieu-sur-Mer

South of Monaco, you’ll find upmarket Eze-sur-Mer, with the quintessential medieval village of Eze perched high above. Before you know you’ll find yourself in one of the French Riviera’s all-time favourites: the twin bays of Villefranche-sur-Mer and Beaulieu-sur-Mer, with the ultra-exclusive headland of Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat lodged between them. This small area is in general very up-market, but you do get what you pay for. Luxury apartments, contemporary villas and lavish mansions dot the hillsides, enjoying breath-taking views over the shimmering azure of the Med. Both Villefranche and Beaulieu offer wonderful beaches on their doorsteps, boasting some popular beach bars and restaurants. A bonus is that public transport is easily accessible so why not zip to Nice for the afternoon, avoiding the heavy traffic that these mountain roads are prone to in summer.

View holiday villas to rent in and around Villefranche-sur-Mer

Nice and Cagnes-sur-Mer

Nice ‘la Belle’, quite literally meaning beautiful Nice, is one of France’s biggest and most wonderful cities. Compared to neighbouring Villefranche and Antibes areas, it’s also relatively affordable, definitely when staying in one of the many holiday apartments within the city. Plus, you’re smack bang in the middle of everything! Soak up the its history during a walking tour, go out shopping for A-brands, stroll over the Promenade des Anglais, lounge on the beach or dive head first into the vibrant night-life. Nice has it all! Plus, it’s the regions transport hub so it’s easy to zip up and down the coast to sightsee and visit your favourite beaches. The outskirts of Nice, like the popular and upmarket quartier Fabron, offer some excellent value-for-money luxury villas and Riviera mansions. South of Nice is the charming seaside resort of Cagnes-sur-Mer and famous holiday complex of Marina Baie des Anges.

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Vence, St-Paul-de-Vence, and Tourrettes-sur-Loup

In the hinterland of Nice you’ll find the wonderful, natural haven of peace and quiet around the picture-perfect village of Vence. Holiday properties are cheaper here compared to the coast, offering an ideal getaway for people who are looking for some quality time spent with family and loved ones while still being only a short drive away from the beaches. Neighbouring medieval villages such as St-Paul-de-Vence and Tourrettes-sur-Loup offer great hideaways for more upmarket rentals and luxury retreats.

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Antibes and Juan-les-Pins

South of Nice you’ll pass the charming and mellow medieval hillside village of Biot - popular for being set back slightly from the coastal buzz, while still being only a few minutes from that shimmering azure. Following this long stretch of comparably calm coast, you’ll end up at another popular pearl of the Cote d’Azur. The upmarket area around hip Antibes, a charming, fortified seaside town with winding cobble stoned streets and magnificent sea views from its ramparts. To mirror Antibes, you’ll find the more modern, developed beachside resort of Juan-les-Pins – a favourite for its sandy beaches. But the real treat is the exclusive Cap d’Antibes, spoilt with little coves and sandy beaches.

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Cannes, Théoules-sur-Mer and Mandelieu-la-Napoule

Just west of the popular Antibes headland is Cannes, home to the world-famous Cannes Film Festival. Several times a year, during important festivals, rental prices in Cannes can soar, but in general it is relatively affordable during the summer months – and popular too! Ever-charming, you can wander through its winding streets in the Haute Ville, stroll over La Croisette with architectural wonders at one side and the beach at the other, or go yacht-spotting in the iconic Vieux Port. The verdant, upmarket neighbourhoods of Californie and La Croix des Gardes are home to luxury villas and estates dotting the lush Mediterranean landscapes. Cannes is also a local transport hub and it makes an easy base to travel up and down the French Riviera for some sightseeing or beach lounging. Further west, tucked in the Northern end of the iconic red rocks of the Massif d’Estérel are the low(er)-key golf-famous resort of Mandelieu-la-Napoule and the beachside resort of Théoules-sur-Mer.

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Grasse, Valbonne and Peymeinade

Inland from Cannes you’ll find that the beautiful valleys around the famed perfume capital of Grasse are becoming ever more popular. With a wonderfully natural landscape that’s dotted with medieval hilltop villages, this is an area where you can still find peace, quiet and untouched natural while being close to the buzz of the beaches. Picturesque villages like Mougins, Valbonne, Opio and Peymeinade harbour luxurious villas and traditional farmhouses with large private gardens where you don’t have to see another soul if you don’t want to. All while having some of the world’s best Michelin star restaurants on your doorstep.

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Fréjus, St Raphael, St Aygulf and Les Issambres

At the Southern end of the Massif de l’Estérel you’ll find the beachside resorts of Fréjus and St Raphael. Generally more affordable, and family friendly, these seaside resorts enjoy lovely stretches of fine sandy beaches and hidden sandy coves. With both the wonderful beaches and Estérel mountains on your doorstep, it’s easy to alternate your holiday between lounging on the beach and getting lost in some of the French Riviera’s savage nature. Further down are the slightly more upmarket resorts of St Aygulf and Les Issambres.

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St Tropez, Port-Grimaud, Sainte Maxime

Ah, St Tropez, the notoriously famous, extraordinary and almost outrageously extravagant playground for the world’s elite. From jetting around on jet-ski’s to lounging on a day-rental yacht, everything is possible here – but it comes at a considerable price tag. The villages on the Cap, like Ramatuelle, La Croix-Valmer, Cogolin and Gassin are all home to grand luxurious villas and sumptuous luxury estates. Round the Gulf of Saint Tropez are the popular upmarket resorts such as Port-Grimaud and Beauvallon, whereas higher up Sainte Maxime offers more affordable holiday rentals. If you are looking for a more relaxing atmosphere, try Plan-de-la-Tour or La Garde-Freinet which are both havens for luxury retreats.

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Hyeres & Toulon

For many, the area around Hyères and Toulon isn’t really considered part of the French Riviera anymore. Nonetheless, the area offers fabulous sandy beaches and azure waters – often at much better prices. If you like island hopping this is also the place to be, off the coast of Hyères and Le Lavandou is the easily accessible Ile de Porquerolles. With some lovely long coves of fine white sand, you can also opt to do some adventuring to find a cove of white sand just for yourself!

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Featured holiday homes in the Cote d'Azur

Villa Roses d'Antibes

5 bedrooms, sleeps 10

The beautiful art deco Villa Rose d'Antibes in Cap d'Antibes is a true delight. Set within spacious Mediterranean gardens, its private heated pool offers guests the peace and quiet they are looking for, and yet you are only a few steps away from the Azur-blue Mediterranean and its sandy beaches. 5 ensuite bedrooms, aircon and WiFi throughout. Ornamental fish pond.
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Looking across the clear blue pool to the rear of a large white villa with a pristine green lawn on the left and to the right a table and chairs shaded by a large tree.

Maison Des Rêves

7 bedrooms, sleeps 14

Maison Des Rêves is as the name suggests - a dream house. With large beautiful terraces overlooking stunning views of Cap d'Antibes and across the sea to Nice, a private and heated swimming pool that is a contender for the largest in the Cap. A fantastic place to spend a holiday with friends and family.
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A pretty white terrace with a nautical feel surrounds this beach-side luxury holiday villa in Garoupe.

La Garoupe

4 bedrooms, sleeps 8

La Garoupe is an absolutely stunning beachfront luxury villa, unique on the Cap d'Antibes. With incredible decor, attention to detail and the most wonderful location, this villa can sleep up to 8 people in 4 bedrooms. Complete with all facilities, walking distance to everything and fully air-conditioned; this is the place for you. Small pets welcome. Perfect venue for weddings and events up to 200 guests.
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A large pool set into a private stone terrace with 4 beach loungers on the left nestles into the surrounding lush green landscape.

Bougainvillea

3 bedrooms, sleeps 6

Superb villa set in beautiful gardens with panoramic views. Large heated pool (15m x 8m) and shady terraces. Calm and secluded, but not at all isolated - only 5 minutes from lovely village of Vence. Part air conditioning. Three bedrooms all with en suite bathrooms. Two bedrooms on ground floor. Children over 10 years only.
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6 sunloungers positioned around a shaded private terrace and a Balinese-stype swimming pool nestled amongst mature trees with a view to the Gulf of St Tropez.

Le Haut Refren

5 bedrooms, sleeps 10

Lovely Provencal Mas with Balinese style swimming pool set in extensive grounds in a commanding position with stunning panoramic views of the Gulf of St Tropez. Main house with 3 bedrooms and 2 separate studios for comfort and privacy. All bedrooms ensuite. La Garde Freinet is just a 10 minute walk and Grimaud only a 7 minute drive.
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A pool in the foreground with the terrace and sun loungers beyond and a traditional 2-storey holiday villa in the background surroundd by mature gardens with hedges and a large palm.

La Villa des Lauriers

3 bedrooms, sleeps 7

Villa des Lauriers is a true gem in an incredible location, overlooking the bay of Cannes in Mougins and a short walk away from the town centre. With 3 bedrooms and 3 en suite bathrooms, this villa also has a private heated swimming pool, air conditioning, and much more. Child friendly.
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A large pool and terrace with dining area and a traditional 2-storey holiday villa with mature gardens and a large terrace on the first floor.

Villa Eucalyptus

5 bedrooms, sleeps 10

Luxurious family villa near Antibes with private pool and jacuzzi. 10-minute drive to the beaches of Juan-les-Pins and 15 minutes into the centre of Antibes. Sleeps 10 guests comfortably in 5 bedrooms and 4 bathrooms.
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Sunloungers on a stone terrace next to a long infinity pool with panoramic views of the of l'Esterel towards the Bay of Cannes.

Infinity View, Spéracèdes

6 bedrooms, sleeps 14

Infinity View is a beautifully renovated luxury villa, which offers breathtaking views over the hills of l'Esterel, towards the Bay of Cannes. There is a large private heated infinity pool (14m x 5m) with jacuzzi, both offering incredible views over the surrounding area. All bedrooms have an ensuite bathroom. Air conditioning throughout the property. Walking distance to the village of Spéracèdes for shops and restaurants.
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View from under the shade of mature trees to the pool and a cosy day bed with blue and white linen to the wooden terrace beyond.

Villa Cocoa Flower

4 bedrooms, sleeps 9

Styled in an eclectic mix of Scandinavian, Loft and Caribbean beachside, this beautiful villa is part of Opio, but it just a short walk from the lively village of Valbonne in the Cote d'Azur. Air conditioning, table tennis, walking distance to amenities, private swimming pool and beautiful garden. 4 bedrooms/3 bathrooms sleeping up to 9 people.
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A cosy seated terrace that opens onto the main house looking across the valley to the bay of Cannes.

Villa Sunriette

6 bedrooms, sleeps 10

The only thing better than the décor and appointments of this luxury villa in Théoule sur Mer is its location - just minutes from the beach and 10 mins from Cannes. Contemporary décor and breathtaking panoramic views. Large heated pool. Fully air conditioned. Shared tennis court just 200m away. The perfect venue for Cannes-based parties and events.
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Looking down from the house to the clear blue pool on the private terrace with sunloungers and shades and surrounded by lush gardens and a large palm.

La Villa Douce

6 bedrooms, sleeps 12

La Villa Douce is a wonderful property to have a holiday in - not only is it in a fantastic location, but it also has facilities for the entire family. Heated salt-water swimming pool, home cinema, satellite TV, wifi, pool table, ping pong, football table, boules court and exercise room. Air conditioning in living areas.
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Looking across the pool to the wooden terrace and two yellow sunloungers with the Mediterranean sea and three large motorboats in the background.

Villa Sea Breeze

4 bedrooms, sleeps 8

Villa Sea Breeze is quite a rare find, indeed! This property is a beachfront villa with a rustic and beautiful interior, offering stunning views over the Mediterranean, a private swimming pool and direct access to a small beach right in front of the property. Located in Sainte Maxime, it's only a 2-minute walk to various restaurants and bars.
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Map of the Areas of the Cote d'Azur

To search for a villa, chateau, or apartment rental in a particular area of the Cote d'Azur, click on the interactive map below.