The captivating stretch between Cannes and Antibes along the French Riviera offers a blend of glamour, history, and natural beauty. From the iconic beaches of Cannes to the charming old streets of Antibes, this region attracts travelers from all over the world. Whether you're seeking luxurious resorts, vibrant nightlife, or a peaceful escape, this guide will help you find the perfect accommodation for your trip.
Understanding your needs
The ideal accommodation choice depends on your individual preferences and travel style. Let's explore key factors to consider before choosing a place to stay.
Budget
Accommodation options along the French Riviera cater to various budgets. Here's a breakdown of different price ranges:
- Luxury: For travelers seeking the ultimate indulgence, expect to find upscale hotels with exceptional amenities, beachfront villas with private pools, and opulent apartments with breathtaking views. These options often come with a price tag starting from €500 per night. For example, the iconic Hôtel du Cap-Eden-Roc in Antibes boasts a luxurious spa, a private beach, and gourmet dining experiences, with prices starting from €1,200 per night.
- Mid-Range: This category offers a balance of comfort and affordability. You'll find comfortable hotels, charming guesthouses, and well-equipped apartments with reasonable prices ranging from €150 to €400 per night. The Hotel Best Western Premier Hotel Le Bristol in Juan-les-Pins, for instance, offers family-friendly amenities like a swimming pool and a restaurant, with prices starting from €180 per night.
- Budget-Friendly: For budget-conscious travelers, several budget-friendly options are available, including hostels, budget hotels, and Airbnb apartments with prices starting from €50 per night. The Hotel Ibis Cannes Centre, for example, offers comfortable accommodations and basic amenities at a price point starting from €80 per night.
Travel style
Different travelers have different needs. Consider your travel style and choose accommodation options that align with your preferences:
- Couples: Romantic getaways often prioritize privacy and luxurious amenities. Consider boutique hotels with stunning views, intimate apartments, or private villas with a romantic ambiance. The Hotel La Villa Madie in Antibes, for example, offers a charming and intimate setting, with prices starting from €200 per night.
- Families: For family vacations, choose spacious apartments, family-friendly hotels with pools and kids' clubs, or villas with ample space for children to play. The Hotel Golden Tulip Juan-les-Pins offers spacious family rooms, a swimming pool, and a kids' club, with prices starting from €120 per night.
- Solo Travelers: If you're traveling alone, consider hostels, guesthouses, or budget hotels that offer social interactions and shared experiences. The Hostel du Vieux Port in Antibes provides affordable accommodations and a communal atmosphere, with prices starting from €30 per night.
- Luxury Seekers: Indulge in the lavish lifestyle of the French Riviera by choosing luxurious hotels with private beaches, butler service, and gourmet dining. The Carlton Cannes, for example, is a renowned luxury hotel with a private beach, a Michelin-starred restaurant, and a world-class spa, with prices starting from €800 per night.
- Adventure Enthusiasts: If you're seeking outdoor activities, choose accommodation options close to hiking trails, water sports locations, or scenic biking routes. The Hotel La Garoupe in Antibes, for example, is located near the Cap d'Antibes, offering stunning coastal views and easy access to hiking trails, with prices starting from €180 per night.
Location preference
The French Riviera offers a variety of locations with unique charms and attractions. Choose the location that best suits your interests:
Cannes
Cannes, known for its glamorous atmosphere, is home to the prestigious Cannes Film Festival. The city boasts stunning beaches, luxurious hotels, vibrant nightlife, and upscale boutiques. Consider staying in the heart of the city for easy access to iconic landmarks like the Palais des Festivals and the Croisette. The Carlton Cannes, for example, is a renowned luxury hotel located on the Croisette, with prices starting from €800 per night.
Juan-les-pins
Juan-les-Pins offers a lively atmosphere with a youthful vibe. This beach resort is known for its vibrant nightlife, sandy beaches, and water sports. Consider staying near the port for easy access to boat trips and local restaurants. The Hotel Royal Juan-les-Pins, for example, offers a vibrant beachfront experience with a swimming pool, a restaurant, and access to water sports, with prices starting from €200 per night.
Antibes
Antibes offers a blend of history and charm. The town's picturesque old streets, Provençal architecture, and bustling port create a unique ambiance. Consider staying in the historic center for easy access to art galleries, museums, and charming shops. The Hotel La Villa Madie, for example, is a charming boutique hotel located in the historic center of Antibes, with prices starting from €180 per night.
Other towns
Explore the lesser-known towns along the coast, like Théoule-sur-Mer, Golfe-Juan, and Villeneuve-Loubet, for a more authentic and less crowded experience. These towns offer charming guesthouses, affordable apartments, and stunning sea views.
Accommodation options
Once you've considered your budget, travel style, and location preferences, it's time to choose from various accommodation options available along the French Riviera.
Hotels
Hotels offer a range of amenities, from luxurious spas to rooftop pools. You can find hotels to suit various budgets and preferences:
Cannes
- Luxury Hotels: The Carlton Cannes, the Hôtel Martinez, and the Grand Hyatt Cannes Hôtel Martinez offer iconic luxury experiences with private beaches, gourmet dining, and world-class services. These hotels are often in high demand and command prices starting from €800 per night. The Hôtel Martinez, for example, boasts a Michelin-starred restaurant, a private beach, and a renowned spa, with prices starting from €1,000 per night.
- Beachfront Properties: The Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc, The Majestic Barrière, and the Hôtel Le Gray d'Albion offer breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea and direct access to sandy beaches. Prices for these properties can range from €300 to €600 per night. The Majestic Barrière, for instance, offers a private beach, a swimming pool, and a renowned restaurant with stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea, with prices starting from €400 per night.
- Boutique Hotels: For a more intimate experience, explore boutique hotels like the Hotel La Villa Madie and the Hotel Le Petit Moulin. These charming hotels offer personalized services and unique decor, with prices ranging from €200 to €400 per night. The Hotel La Villa Madie, for example, is a charming boutique hotel with a personalized service and a unique Provençal decor, with prices starting from €250 per night.
- Budget-Friendly Options: For budget-conscious travelers, Cannes offers affordable hotels like the Hotel Le Cannet and the Hotel Ibis Cannes Centre. These hotels offer basic amenities and comfortable accommodations with prices starting from €80 per night. The Hotel Ibis Cannes Centre, for example, offers comfortable accommodations and basic amenities at a price point starting from €80 per night.
Juan-les-pins
- Lively Beachfront Hotels: The Royal Hotel Juan-les-Pins, the Hotel Juana, and the Hôtel Belle Rive offer lively beachfront experiences with swimming pools, restaurants, and access to water sports. Prices for these hotels range from €150 to €350 per night. The Royal Hotel Juan-les-Pins, for example, offers a lively beachfront experience with a swimming pool, a restaurant, and access to water sports, with prices starting from €200 per night.
- Family-Friendly Resorts: The Hotel Best Western Premier Hotel Le Bristol, the Hotel Golden Tulip Juan-les-Pins, and the Hotel Résidence Pierre & Vacances offer spacious family-friendly accommodations with amenities like pools, kids' clubs, and playgrounds. Prices for these resorts can range from €100 to €250 per night. The Hotel Golden Tulip Juan-les-Pins, for example, offers spacious family rooms, a swimming pool, and a kids' club, with prices starting from €120 per night.
- Trendy Accommodations: For a trendy and stylish experience, consider the Hotel Le Pirate, the Hotel La Réserve, and the Hotel La Villa Madie. These hotels offer modern design, unique decor, and access to local attractions. Prices for these accommodations can range from €180 to €400 per night. The Hotel Le Pirate, for example, offers a modern design, a unique decor, and easy access to local attractions, with prices starting from €220 per night.
Antibes
- Charming Boutique Hotels: The Hotel La Villa Madie, the Hotel La Garoupe, and the Hotel Best Western Plus Hôtel Antibes are charming boutique hotels with unique character, personalized services, and comfortable accommodations. Prices for these hotels range from €150 to €300 per night. The Hotel La Villa Madie, for example, offers a charming setting with personalized services and comfortable accommodations, with prices starting from €180 per night.
- Historic Properties: The Hotel du Cap d'Antibes, the Hôtel La Pinede, and the Hotel Le Provençal offer a glimpse into the history of Antibes with their elegant architecture, beautiful gardens, and proximity to historic landmarks. Prices for these properties can range from €200 to €450 per night. The Hotel du Cap d'Antibes, for example, offers a historic setting with elegant architecture, beautiful gardens, and proximity to historic landmarks, with prices starting from €300 per night.
- Modern Resorts: The Hotel Best Western Premier Hotel de la Baie, the Hotel Novotel Suites Antibes Centre, and the Hotel IBIS Styles Antibes Centre offer modern and comfortable accommodations with contemporary design, amenities, and convenient locations. Prices for these resorts range from €100 to €250 per night. The Hotel Best Western Premier Hotel de la Baie, for example, offers modern and comfortable accommodations with a contemporary design, with prices starting from €150 per night.
Other towns
- Guesthouses: The charming guesthouses in Théoule-sur-Mer, Golfe-Juan, and Villeneuve-Loubet offer a warm and welcoming ambiance, with cozy rooms and personalized services. Prices for guesthouses can range from €80 to €200 per night. The charming guesthouse "Le Mas des Oliviers" in Théoule-sur-Mer, for example, offers cozy rooms and personalized services, with prices starting from €100 per night.
- Villas: For a luxurious and private experience, consider renting a villa in the quiet towns along the coast. Villas offer stunning views, private pools, and access to nearby beaches. Prices for villas vary depending on size and amenities, starting from €300 per night. Villa "Les Pins," located in Golfe-Juan, for instance, offers stunning sea views, a private pool, and access to the beach, with prices starting from €500 per night.
- Bed & Breakfasts: Bed & breakfasts in these towns offer a unique experience with local charm and a personalized touch. You can enjoy delicious breakfasts, enjoy a peaceful atmosphere, and explore the surroundings at your own pace. Prices for bed & breakfasts range from €60 to €150 per night. The "Villa des Fleurs" in Villeneuve-Loubet, for example, offers a peaceful atmosphere, delicious breakfasts, and a personalized touch, with prices starting from €80 per night.
Apartments
Apartments offer flexibility, privacy, and often a more affordable option compared to hotels. However, apartments may lack hotel amenities like room service and daily cleaning.
- Pros: Privacy, access to a kitchen, often more affordable than hotels, can be more spacious for families. A three-bedroom apartment in Antibes, for example, can be rented for around €200 per night, offering more space and privacy compared to a hotel room at a similar price.
- Cons: Lack of amenities like room service and daily cleaning, may require more self-sufficiency, can be more difficult to find in prime locations. Apartments often lack amenities like room service and daily cleaning, and may require more self-sufficiency, making them a less suitable option for travelers who prefer a more luxurious and pampered experience.
Consider booking apartments through online platforms like Airbnb, Booking.com, and HomeAway. Choose apartments based on proximity to attractions, transportation, and desired ambiance. Check the reviews and photos of the apartments before booking to ensure they meet your needs. When selecting an apartment, consider its proximity to attractions, transportation options, and the ambiance of the neighborhood. Reading reviews and checking photos can give you a better idea of the apartment's condition and amenities.
Villa rentals
For an exclusive and private experience, consider renting a villa along the French Riviera. Villas offer luxury, spacious accommodations, and a wide range of amenities.
- Luxury and Privacy: Villas offer a private and secluded setting with stunning views, private pools, and gardens. They are often ideal for large families or groups of friends seeking a luxurious getaway. Villa "Les Pins," located in Golfe-Juan, offers a private and secluded setting with stunning sea views, a private pool, and access to the beach, with prices starting from €500 per night.
- Amenities: Villas may come with various amenities, including private pools, gardens, terraces, fully equipped kitchens, and personal staff. Some villas offer additional services like private chefs, housekeeping, and concierge services. Villa "Le Mas des Oliviers" in Théoule-sur-Mer, for example, offers a private pool, a garden, a fully equipped kitchen, and access to a private beach, with prices starting from €800 per night.
- Booking: Villa rentals can be booked through specialized villa rental agencies and websites like Villa Plus, Oliver's Travels, and Luxury Retreats. Be sure to check the specific amenities and services included with each villa before booking. When booking a villa, it's essential to verify the specific amenities and services included, such as the availability of a private pool, a fully equipped kitchen, and access to a private beach.
Beyond accommodation
Once you've secured the perfect accommodation, consider these additional aspects for a seamless travel experience.
Transportation
Getting around the French Riviera is easy with various transportation options available:
- Train: The French railway system offers frequent and efficient train services between Cannes and Antibes. The train journey takes approximately 15 minutes. The SNCF offers frequent train services between Cannes and Antibes, with a journey time of around 15 minutes. Tickets can be purchased at train stations or online.
- Bus: Buses are a more affordable option for getting around the region, with regular services between Cannes and Antibes, as well as to nearby towns. The local bus network, known as "Bus Azur," offers regular services between Cannes and Antibes, as well as to nearby towns. Tickets can be purchased at bus stops or online.
- Car: Renting a car offers flexibility and allows you to explore the region at your own pace. However, parking can be limited and expensive in major cities. Renting a car can be a convenient option, but it's important to be aware that parking can be limited and expensive in major cities. It's recommended to book your car in advance, especially during peak season, as availability can be limited.
- Boat: Boat trips offer a scenic way to travel between Cannes and Antibes, offering breathtaking views of the coastline. There are regular ferry services and private boat charters available. Ferry services operate regularly between Cannes and Antibes, providing a scenic and convenient mode of transportation. Private boat charters are also available for a more personalized experience.
Activities and attractions
The French Riviera offers a wide range of activities and attractions to suit every interest.
- Beaches: Enjoy the sun, sand, and sea at some of the most famous beaches in the world, including the Croisette in Cannes and Juan-les-Pins beach. Cannes is famous for its La Croisette, a beachfront promenade lined with luxury hotels, shops, and restaurants. Juan-les-Pins is also known for its beautiful sandy beaches, ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.
- Shopping: Discover luxurious boutiques, designer stores, and charming markets in Cannes, Antibes, and other towns along the coast. Cannes is known for its upscale boutiques and designer stores, particularly along the Croisette. Antibes offers a mix of charming shops and traditional markets, where you can find local souvenirs and artisan products.
- Culture: Explore the historic streets of Antibes, visit the Picasso Museum, and enjoy the vibrant nightlife in Cannes and Juan-les-Pins. The Picasso Museum in Antibes is home to a collection of works by Pablo Picasso, including his famous "La Joie de Vivre" painting. Cannes is known for its vibrant nightlife, with numerous bars, nightclubs, and live music venues.
- Outdoor Activities: Go hiking in the Esterel Massif, explore the nearby islands by boat, or try water sports like windsurfing and kitesurfing. The Esterel Massif, located near Cannes, offers a variety of hiking trails with stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea. The nearby islands, such as the Îles de Lérins, are accessible by boat and offer beautiful beaches and scenic walks. Water sports enthusiasts can enjoy windsurfing and kitesurfing in the clear waters of the French Riviera.
Local tips
Here are some local tips to enhance your travel experience:
- Food: Indulge in the delicious cuisine of the French Riviera, known for its fresh seafood, local wines, and Provençal dishes. Fresh seafood is a highlight of the French Riviera, with numerous restaurants serving delicious dishes like bouillabaisse and grilled fish. The region is also known for its local wines, particularly rosé wines.
- Markets: Explore the local markets for fresh produce, artisan goods, and unique souvenirs. The Forville Market in Cannes is a vibrant market where you can find fresh produce, local cheeses, and artisan goods. The Provençal Market in Antibes offers a wide range of local products, including olive oil, honey, and lavender.
- Hidden Gems: Discover hidden gems like charming coastal villages, picturesque hiking trails, and secluded beaches away from the crowds. The charming village of Théoule-sur-Mer, for example, offers breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea and a peaceful atmosphere. The picturesque hiking trails in the Esterel Massif offer stunning views and secluded beaches.
Planning your trip to the French Riviera requires careful consideration of your preferences and budget. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of accommodation options, transportation, activities, and local tips to ensure a memorable and enjoyable experience along this captivating stretch of the Mediterranean coast.
