Top Seaside Real Estate Hotspots on the French Riviera

 

While most residents of the French Riviera live lives much like people elsewhere in the world, the region has long held a reputation as a prime destination for those seeking a luxurious, safe, and secure lifestyle. Its historic appeal is amplified by a mild, sunny climate, dramatic landscapes, and the sparkling blue waters of the Mediterranean.

Whether you thrive in an exciting social scene or prefer a more private, tranquil lifestyle, the French Riviera offers both with ease—making it equally attractive for full-time residents and holiday visitors.

Each year, the Barnes Group Global Property Handbook ranks the most sought-after seaside cities among the world’s wealthy. The Côte d’Azur consistently features in the top five, earning fourth place globally this year. The Gulf of Saint-Tropez is singled out as “one of the most coveted in the Mediterranean,” with Saint-Tropez, Sainte-Maxime, and Saint-Raphaël standing out as star destinations.

Closer to Monaco, prestigious neighborhoods such as Cimiez in Nice and Mont-Boron are celebrated for their elevated views over the Baie des Anges, Cap d’Antibes, and the Estérel Mountains. Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, famed for its Belle Époque villas designed by leading architects of the 20th century, yet with an equal number of modern properties on this highly sought after peninsula remains a magnet for international buyers.

While Russian buyers once dominated, recent years have seen more Anglo-Saxon and Eastern European interest along with those in the tech and pharmaceutical industries.

Beaulieu-sur-Mer—especially the Baie des Fourmis—and Villefranche-sur-Mer also attract high-net-worth clients from France, Germany, Belgium, Italy, and Switzerland. Properties under €3 million are in demand with this group, while buyers from Northern and Eastern Europe tend to seek larger estates of 300–500 m² priced from €6 million upward.

On the western side of Monaco, Cap-d’Ail continues to charm with panoramic sea views, coastal trails, and its emblematic Plage Mala district, home to striking Belle Époque villas. With Roquebrune Cap Martin also now on buyers' radars. 

Last year, we predicted that a second Trump presidency could drive more Americans to purchase permanent or secondary homes here. That forecast has proven accurate—threefold—since January 2025, with daily inquiries arriving from clients across a wide budget range.

This summer, many of our U.S. villa rental guests have shared the same first impressions upon arrival: they feel they can finally breathe, and that they’re safe in one of the most beautiful regions in the world. Around half have requested in-person meetings during their vacation to discuss purchasing a second home, along with related topics such as visas and mortgage options.

We’re always happy to connect prospective buyers with trusted partners who specialize in these areas. If owning property in the Côte d’Azur is on your horizon, reach out to us at Experience The French Riviera—we’ll help make the process seamless from first viewing to final signature.

Privacy Abuse in Monaco

 

In recent months, the Principality of Monaco has taken a decisive stand to protect the privacy of its hotel and casino patrons. The Société des Bains de Mer (SBM) — the prestigious group behind Monaco’s most renowned establishments including the Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo, the Monte-Carlo Bay Hotel & Resort, and the legendary Casino de Monte-Carlo — has introduced firm new measures to address a growing problem: individuals filming guests without consent.

A Response to Abusive Behavior

The move comes after repeated incidents in which certain visitors, influencers, or social media opportunists recorded videos or took photographs of guests in public and semi-private areas of SBM properties. In some cases, these images were posted online without permission, exposing VIP clients, high-stakes players, and everyday guests to unwanted attention or potential security risks.

And frequently you can find in these posts online that assumptions are made about the individuals being billionaires, escorts…you name it. All so the content creator can obtain clout and followers.

Monaco, famed for its glamour and exclusivity, thrives on offering its visitors a sense of discretion. For many guests — including high-profile figures from entertainment, business, and politics — the ability to enjoy a holiday, a fine meal, or an evening at the gaming tables without intrusive cameras is part of the experience they expect and pay for.

Stronger Protections and Clear Guidelines

In response, SBM has implemented clear signage across its hotels, casinos, bars, and restaurants, reminding visitors that filming or photographing other guests without consent is strictly prohibited. Security teams have been briefed to address violations immediately, and staff have been empowered to intervene if they witness inappropriate filming. Repeat offenders risk being asked to leave the premises and may face bans from SBM properties.

The policy is not aimed at casual holiday snaps of architecture or food, but specifically at protecting individuals from being targeted or harassed for online content. “Our priority is the comfort and peace of mind of every guest,” an SBM spokesperson noted. “This is about respect — for privacy, for the atmosphere of our establishments, and for Monaco’s longstanding reputation as a safe haven for those seeking discretion.”

Preserving Monaco’s Spirit of Discretion

While the rise of smartphones and social media has made candid filming commonplace worldwide, Monaco is signaling that it will not compromise on the standards that set it apart from other destinations. The new rules reflect a broader understanding: luxury is not just about five-star service or breathtaking views, but also about the freedom to enjoy them without fear of becoming someone else’s content.

Visitors are encouraged to focus on their own experience — and to remember that in Monaco, the most valuable souvenir is often the memory, not the Instagram post.

Nice: From Postcard Beauty to Global Powerhouse

The French Riviera’s capital is evolving into a dynamic, four-season destination for travelers, business leaders, and investors alike.

Once known solely for its sun-kissed beaches and postcard-perfect charm, Nice is undergoing a major transformation. Now a vibrant, year-round destination, the city welcomes over five million visitors annually — and tourism is driving more than just vacation numbers. It’s fueling growth across hospitality, international events, and real estate. In fact, 2024 saw Nice host a record number of international congresses, cementing its place as France’s leading business tourism hub outside of Paris.

At the helm of this evolution is Nice Côte d’Azur Tourisme, the official agency representing the entire Métropole Nice Côte d’Azur, which spans 51 municipalities. General Director Jean-Sébastien Martinez explains the vision: “We’re moving toward smarter, more sustainable tourism — one that delivers greater value for both visitors and locals.”

Beyond its iconic coastline, Nice is redefining its image. It now ranks as France’s top luxury destination after Paris, with its exclusive “Club Luxe” network of 14 premium properties that include both coastal and mountain retreats. Its year-round appeal stretches from the cultural to the culinary — opera, fine dining, hiking, and seasonal festivals all echo its history as the Riviera’s original winter resort, a legacy recognized by UNESCO.

Where else can you go from sea to snow in under an hour? With eight ports and seven ski stations, Nice offers something few destinations can boast: true four-season versatility. Whether you’re drawn to alpine sports or Mediterranean calm, the region delivers a lifestyle rooted in contrast and quality.

Hervé Laubertie, Director of Team Nice Côte d’Azur, captures it well: “From cultural festivals to outdoor adventures between the mountains and the sea, this is a destination where life can be lived fully — all year round.”

And this quality of life isn’t just for tourists. With its fusion of glamour, authenticity, and timeless beauty, the Côte d’Azur is increasingly a place to live, not just visit. “Imagine working or studying with the Mediterranean as your backdrop,” says Laubertie. “Here, the landscape is part of your everyday experience.”

On the international stage, Nice is fast becoming a serious player in business travel and global events. It already plays host to Ironman competitions, Tour de France stages, e-sports tournaments, and major diplomatic summits. In 2025, Nice welcomed the UN Ocean Conference, a landmark event for the region. This year, a new eco-designed congress center will open at the Port of Nice — the first milestone in a major expansion of the city's event infrastructure, with a 50,000 m² complex set to launch by 2030.

Sustainability is central to Nice’s future. The city was the first French metropolis to earn a spot on the Global Destination Sustainability Index and now leads the nation in Green Key-certified accommodations, with 68 properties. A new digital platform is also in development to help visitors explore lesser-known areas, easing pressure on hotspots and enriching the overall experience.

Crucial to Nice’s international growth are its deepening ties with North America. Sixty percent of visitors to the city are international, and nearly 20% of those hail from the U.S. “American travelers are especially valued by our local partners,” says Martinez. “They’re curious, respectful, and they return year after year.”

To reinforce these bonds, the tourism agency is opening a permanent office in Washington, D.C., with a mission to serve both the U.S. and Canadian markets. The message is clear: American travelers can enjoy world-class service, immersive experiences, and excellent value — all within a luxury setting that includes not only Nice, but also Monaco, Cannes, the Italian border, and the Alps, all less than an hour away.

The future of Nice is bold, open, and international. Whether you're visiting, relocating, or investing, the Côte d’Azur is more than ready. The Riviera isn’t just open for business — it’s ready for takeoff.

It’s Back – The Dolly White Party in Nice Returns!

 

Get ready, Nice – the legendary Dolly White Party is back on August 14, lighting up Place du Pin and Rue Bonaparte with joy, music, and celebration!

This beloved street party, hosted by the LGBTQIA+ Center of the Côte d’Azur with the support of the City of Nice and the Bonaparte Neighborhood Business Association, transforms the area into an unforgettable celebration of pride, unity, and summer energy.

From 6 p.m. to midnight, dance under the stars to the sounds of summer spun by DJs Anna Crouse, Jisse, FredSky, and Ben Crafter. Expect a night of non-stop beats, colorful lights, raised arms, smiles, kisses, and community spirit.

Special thanks to the City of Nice and its mayor, local institutions, artist Patrick MOYA, the incredible volunteers, and the neighborhood’s merchants for helping bring this one-of-a-kind street party to life once again.

Free entry – just bring your energy, your best dance moves, and wear WHITE to match the spirit of the event!

Note: Limited capacity. Bag checks at entry. Please respect the work of volunteers and security staff.

All proceeds go toward supporting the vital social initiatives of the LGBTQIA+ Center.

Don’t miss one of the Côte d’Azur’s most vibrant nights of the year!