5 French Riviera Hotels Travelers Say Are Actually Worth the Splurge
Not all luxury hotels on the Riviera live up to the price tag. Some feel overcrowded, others are all looks, no substance. But travelers keep coming back to these five. Stunning views, top-tier service, and the kind of exclusivity that makes people wish they’d booked differently.
1. Grand-Hôtel du Cap-Ferrat – A Four Seasons Hotel (Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat)
This five-star hotel sits at the tip of Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, surrounded by 17 acres of landscaped gardens. It has 74 rooms and suites, plus a few private villas.
The setting is quiet and exclusive, with direct Mediterranean views and easy access to coastal walking trails.
The hotel’s main attraction is its infinity pool at Club Dauphin, reached by a private funicular. There’s also a Michelin-starred restaurant, a luxury spa, and a fitness center.
Guests consistently praise the service and attention to detail from staff. Rooms are bright, elegant, and modern, with balconies or terraces overlooking the sea or gardens.
On the downside, it’s one of the most expensive hotels in the region, and some guests mention that the pool area can get crowded in summer, especially with families.
Still, for those looking for refined luxury away from the busier areas of Nice and Monaco, it’s hard to beat.
2. La Réserve Ramatuelle (Near Saint-Tropez)
This luxury retreat sits in the hills above the Mediterranean, about 15 minutes from Saint-Tropez. It’s designed for privacy, with just 28 suites, 14 private villas, and an emphasis on relaxation.
The hotel overlooks the sea but isn’t directly on the beach. Guests typically drive to Pampelonne Beach or stay in the infinity pool with panoramic views.
La Réserve is best known for its spa which offers specialized wellness programs, including detox and anti-aging treatments. The restaurant serves Mediterranean cuisine with an emphasis on fresh, local ingredients.
Rooms are sleek and modern, featuring floor-to-ceiling windows and private terraces. Guests love the peaceful setting, the spacious accommodations, and the high-end service.
The biggest downside is the location. While the isolation is a plus for some, others find it inconvenient for visiting Saint-Tropez’s nightlife or restaurants. Prices are also extremely high, even by Riviera standards.
But if you’re looking for a quiet, wellness-focused escape with top-tier service, this is one of the best options near Saint-Tropez. See La Réserve Ramatuelle (Booking)
3. Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo (Monaco)
Sitting in the heart of Monaco’s Casino Square, this five-star hotel is one of the most famous in Europe. It opened in 1864 and has been a symbol of Monte-Carlo’s high society ever since.
The hotel has 208 rooms and suites, many with balconies overlooking the Place du Casino or the Mediterranean.
The hotel is famous for its grand architecture, world-class dining, and access to Monte-Carlo’s most exclusive spots. Guests have priority access to the Thermes Marins Monte-Carlo spa, as well as a private beach club.
The restaurant lineup includes the three-Michelin-starred Le Louis XV by Alain Ducasse. Service is polished and efficient – it’s often noted that staff anticipates your needs before being asked.
On the downside, it’s one of the most expensive hotels in Monaco, and some guests find the atmosphere a little too formal. A few guests mention that during peak events like the Grand Prix, it can feel crowded.
Still, this is the place to stay for the full Monaco experience in the most prestigious address. Check reviews and prices on Booking
4. Hotel Juana (Antibes)
Located in Juan-les-Pins, just west of Antibes, Hotel Juana is a 5-star boutique Art Deco hotel with 40 rooms and suites. It’s a short walk from the beach and has access to the private beach club of its sister hotel, Hôtel Belles Rives.
The hotel has a small outdoor pool, a fitness center, and an on-site restaurant serving Mediterranean cuisine.
Guests love the hotel’s historic charm, stylish interiors, and friendly service. The location is convenient for exploring Antibes and Juan-les-Pins, with plenty of restaurants and bars nearby.
The staff gets consistent praise for being helpful and welcoming, and the rooms, while not ultra-luxurious, are comfortable and well-appointed.
On the downside, some guests feel that the hotel needs updates, particularly in common areas. Noise can also be an issue, especially for rooms facing the street.
Not a full-scale luxury resort, but for travelers looking for a charming, well-located stay with easy beach access, Hotel Juana is a solid choice. See reviews and pricing for 5-star Hôtel Juana
5. Royal-Riviera Hotel (Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat)
This beachfront hotel sits between Beaulieu-sur-Mer and Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat. It offers classic Riviera elegance with a relaxed atmosphere.
It has 94 rooms and suites, many with sea views, plus a private beach, heated pool, and lush gardens. The location is a major draw – quiet but close to Nice and Monaco, with easy access to coastal walking trails.
Guests appreciate the combination of old-world charm and modern comfort. The private beach is a standout feature, and the pool area rarely feels overcrowded. Service is generally excellent, and the on-site restaurant, La Table du Royal, serves Mediterranean dishes with fresh seafood.
The hotel’s ambiance is more understated than the glitzier resorts in Monaco, with a refined but low-key luxury vibe.
The main downsides are the room sizes — some standard rooms are on the smaller side- and the limited dining options. A few guests mention that while the hotel is beautiful, it lacks some of the ultra-luxury touches found at nearby five-star properties.
Still, the hotel offers a peaceful, high-end Riviera stay with direct beach access. See reviews and pricing on Booking
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Cover photo: Hotel Royal-Riviera