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.