The Côte d’Azur is full of charm: sea, villages, vineyards, calanques… There’s plenty of choice for a romantic break.
To inspire you, here are our ideas for romantic weekends on the Côte d’Azur in different styles: luxury, historic, nature…
All with our suggestions for accommodation, activities and photos to help you choose and book!
We wish you a wonderful weekend in our beautiful region, whether it is for Valentine’s Day, a special occasion or just a romantic moment!
This guide is completely independent, based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.
1. Cassis: a romantic weekend on the Côte d’Azur
Why choose Cassis?
Cassis is a small fishing town that has preserved its authentic charm despite its growing popularity. The iconic harbor is lined with lively cafés and seafood restaurants.
What we liked most was that Cassis combines the charm of a Mediterranean village with magnificent natural playgrounds: the calanques on one side and the Soubeyranes cliffs on the other.
The town is also famous for its white wine, Cassis, which you can taste in the surrounding vineyards.
Hotel Les Roches Blanches
The atmosphere of this hotel totally enchanted us, offering one of the most beautiful views on the Côte d’Azur. Our stay was extremely soothing and inspiring. We were particularly taken with the infinity pools overlooking the sea, and our spacious room with its refined art deco-inspired decor.
The hotel becomes even more magical as the sun sets, tinting the surrounding cliffs in a magnificent glow.
See photos, prices and availability – and book!
Belles Canailles restaurant
Whether it’s fresh seafood caught daily or elegantly revisited Provençal specialties, an evening at Belles Canailles is an invitation to relax.
We recommend arriving before sunset, to admire the changing colors of the Soubeyranes cliffs. A magnificent show!
Reservations are essential.
Romantic activities
- Admire the sunset over the cliffs
- Drive along the Route des Crêtes and admire the views
- Visit a vineyard
- Hiking or kayaking in the calanques – reservation
See our list of the best things to do in Cassis (coming soon)
OUR TPS FOR RENTING YOUR CAR IN Provence
- Compare prices on our preferred platform: DiscoverCars – one of the best rated sites.
- Choose a car that is powerful enough (the roads are steep) but compact (some passages are narrow).
- Think of thecomplete insurance (some roads are tortuous and narrow).
- There is a lot of demand, book it early.
2. Menton: a charming weekend
Why choose Menton
Menton is the most unique town on the Côte d’Azur. It’s a fascinating destination to explore. The old town of Menton, with its narrow streets and colorful facades, offers an immersion in the authenticity of the region.
The city is famous for its lush gardens, notably the Val Rahmeh Botanical Garden, which amazed us. Very romantic.
Menton is the ideal place to relax on its sunny beaches, stroll through its gardens and sample local specialties. We were spellbound.
The London Hotel
Even before entering the establishment, we were seduced by the charm of the main avenue lined with lush plants. The white facade with green shutters blended perfectly into the background.
Located to the west of the city center at Borrigo Beach, we loved staying at this hotel. We were totally won over by the thoughtful decor, outdoor terrace and strategic location! Stay tuned for a detailed review of our night in this hotel.
See photos, prices and availability – and book!
Romantic activities
- Stroll along the waterfront at sunset overlooking the old town
- Relax in the gardens, especially the Val-Ramheh garden
- Climb the coloured stairs and rest in pairs on each level
- Admire the superb view from Garavan viewpoint
- Visit the neighboring villages of Roquebrune and Sainte-Agnès.
See our list of the best things to do in Menton (coming soon)
3. Èze: weekend time travel
Why go to Èze?
Èze is one of the most beautiful villages in Provence and France. It is very popular during the day. But to spend a weekend here is to enjoy the narrow streets and views before and after the crowds, to hear the wind rushing through the stones, and to imagine how different generations have lived here…
This village really took us back in time!
The hotel
The village has two luxury hotels:
- At Hotel Chateau Eza, more intimate – see photos and availability
- At the Hotel La Chèvre d’Or, with its swimming pools – see photos and availability
The restaurant
In the village, you’ll find different types of restaurant: tucked away in the narrow streets surrounded by stone houses, or with a terrace and panoramic views.
The village is renowned for its gourmet cuisine:
- Restaurant La Chèvre d’Or (2 stars)
- Restaurant Château Eza (1 star)
We haven’t had a chance to try it out yet, but we hope to return soon.
Romantic activities
- Explore the maze of alleyways once the day’s crowds have gone.
- Admire the sunset from your room or the pool
- Visit the exotic garden with its cacti and waterfalls
- Discover the church and its paintings
- Relax and meditate on the magnificent views of the coast and the Mediterranean.
See our list of the best things to do in Èze.
A LITTLE MORE patience
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4. Saint-Tropez: romantic luxury weekend
Why choose Saint-Tropez?
Nestled on the Côte d’Azur, Saint-Tropez is a legendary town that combines glamour and authenticity. We were pleasantly surprised, as the town has managed to preserve a real Mediterranean charm (despite the huge yachts in the harbor that block the view of the colorful facades).
The old town remains on a human scale, where it’s a pleasure to stroll along the narrow streets. The Old Port, with its terrace cafés and relaxed Mediterranean atmosphere, is an iconic location.
But what struck us most was the surrounding peninsula, which has remained largely undeveloped. It’s the ideal place to recharge your batteries, with vineyards, impressive views and sandy beaches with azure waters. Ideal for couples!
Hotel Sezz
We fell in love with Hotel Sezz. It’s a 5-minute drive from the center of Saint-Tropez, near the Canoubiers beach and a 15-minute drive from the magnificent Pampelonne beach.
We were enchanted by its modern, minimalist design, its vast swimming pool and the impression of an unspoilt oasis far from the hustle and bustle of the city.
See photos, prices and availability – and book!
Restaurant Colette
The Colette restaurant, located in the hotel, turned out to be our favorite in Saint-Tropez. The menu, which focused on fruit and vegetables, proved inventive, extremely well presented and rich in flavor. However, the real highlight of our stay was the exceptional team. The welcome was impeccable and warm, helping to make our experience a memorable one.
Reservations are essential.
Romantic activities
- Stroll through the narrow streets of the old town
- Climb the citadel to admire the view over the bay
- Take a sunset kayak tour – book now
- Lounging on the beach at Pampelonne
- Visit the nearby villages of Grimaud and Port-Grimaud
- …
See our article on the best things to do in Saint-Tropez.
5. Nice: a cultural weekend for lovers
Why choose Nice?
Nicknamed “Nissa la Bella” by its locals, Nice is an unmissable destination that has truly charmed us. Between its omnipresent nature in the city, its seaside, its captivating museums, its architectural gems and its thriving gastronomic scene, we had no time to get bored in this idyllic Côte d’Azur location. It’s the region’s largest city.
But what charmed us most was the architecture and elegance of the city’s streets. Just look up and be amazed!
All you have to do is walk around, hand in hand…
Hotel Le Negresco
A veritable institution in Nice, the Hotel Le Negresco is a mythical place where art is particularly honored, and we were delighted. Nearly 6,000 works of art are displayed throughout this sumptuous palace, dating from Louis XIII to the present day, to the delight of our eyes. This collection is a wonderful tribute to our cultural and artistic heritage!
In short, it was an enchanted and highly poetic interlude that transported us out of time. A must-see place!
See photos, prices and availability – and book!
Restaurant Jan
We recommend our finest culinary experience on the Côte d’Azur.
To share memories of his childhood, the chef revisits South African specialties, where he is originally from, and marries them with French gastronomic savoir-faire. Using local produce from Provence and South Africa, the menu takes the senses on a journey. Each dish is a work of culinary art, presented and created with quality ingredients, subtle flavors, some of them surprising.
Romantic activities
- Strolling the streets of Nice
- Climb to the top of the castle hill for a stroll and enjoy the views.
- Walking along the Promenade des Anglais at sunset
- Visit the museums that thrill you (Matisse, Chagall…)
- Don’t miss the charm of Villa Masséna
- Discover the Côtes de Provence vineyards – book now
- Enjoy an ice cream at Azzurro
See our list of the best things to do in Nice.
HAVE FUN WITH THESE activities
- Great kayak trips in:
Saint-Tropez to the Ramatuelle reserve
Cassis to the calanques - Helicopter flight from Cannes
- Shuttle service along the coast between Nice and Saint-Tropez
- Bike tours: eBike in Nice – Mountain biking in the Esterel massif
6. Porquerolles: nature weekend
Why choose Porquerolles?
Situated off the coast of Hyère, Porquerolles has seduced us with its unspoilt natural beauty. We rented an electric bike to explore as much as possible.
We discovered its dream beaches, with crystal-clear waters and golden sand.
But we were also fascinated by its historic forts, which bear witness to its military past.
The island is a true haven of nature, with trails winding through forests.
It’s a quiet place where you can get around on foot or on a rental bike (we recommend an electric bike, as there are some nice hills).
Where to stay
For example, you can spend the night in:
- Hotel Residence Les Medes – See prices, photos and availability
- On a docked boat – See prices, photos and availability
Romantic activities
- Rent a bike or hike to explore the island (which is quite large)
- Discover the beautiful beach of Notre-Dame
- Touring batteries and forts
- Climb to the top of Fort Sainte-Agathe for spectacular views
- Enjoy silence without a car
See our article on Porquerolles (coming soon).
6. Beaulieu-sur-Mer: a quiet weekend
Why choose Beaulieu-sur-Mer?
Beaulieu-sur-Mer is another discreet Côte d’Azur town. We really appreciated the elegance and calm. It was a very pleasant break from the hustle and bustle of other cities.
We particularly liked its beaches, with the cliffs surrounding the town and the many magnificent trees all around. It’s like a garden city.
It offers privileged access to Cap Ferrat and the famous village of Èze.
Hotel – 2 options
Hotel la Réserve de Beaulieu (5 stars)
Situated on a small cliff overlooking the Mediterranean, this hotel offers an idyllic setting with a breathtaking view of the sea and cliffs. We were seduced by the refined elegance of the hotel, its inner courtyard perfect for a drink and its swimming pool overlooking the coastline.
It’s worth noting that this hotel embodies a more traditional style of luxury.
See photos, prices and availability – and book!
Hotel Carlton (4 stars)
In this elegant city, we particularly liked the Carlton hotel, with its outdoor pool facing the beautiful building, its friendly staff and its large, welcoming rooms.
See photos, prices and availability – and book!
The restaurant at Réserve de Beaulieu
Located within the hotel, this establishment offers an exceptional culinary experience, where every detail is carefully thought out to delight the most discerning taste buds.
In a luxurious and refined setting, with a breathtaking view of the sparkling sea, the evening is unforgettable.
The dinner we enjoyed at the restaurant was enchanting, and we’d like to offer our special congratulations to the pastry chef.
Reservations are essential.
Romantic activities
- Admire the olive trees, palms and many other species of trees around the town
- Marvel at the cliffs at Petite-Afrique beach, one of our favorites on the Côte d’Azur(see our list).
- Visit the Greek-style Kerylos villa
- Explore Cap Ferrat, including the Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild.
See our list of the best things to do in Beaulieu-sur-Mer (coming soon)
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7. Antibes: historic weekend
Why choose Antibes?
Antibes is one of our favorites on the Côte d’Azur. It’s rarely mentioned first, but we’re going to make an exception! It may be less famous and luxurious than its neighbors Nice and Cannes, but it offers the charm of history, beautiful stonework and breathtaking views.
It’s a pleasure to stroll through this human-sized commune, which offers magnificent Mediterranean landscapes, with ramparts, a rich heritage, sandy beaches and views of the sea and mountains.
This view below is one of the most romantic on the Côte d’Azur!
Hotel Villa Port d’Antibes & Spa
If you want to enjoy the city center and its amenities while enjoying a wellness experience, choose this hotel. Right next to the harbor, you can relax on your balcony with sea views, on the spa’s massage table, or by the outdoor pool. We were very taken with the decor of this establishment, which is both contemporary and colorful, with beautiful materials. In short, it’s a favorite!
L’Arazur restaurant
To visit the Arazur restaurant is to taste the cuisine of a passionate and experienced couple, chef Lucas Marini and his partner Jeanne Martin. Dishes are sublimated in all simplicity. The colorful plates change with the seasons. In addition to our tasting, we enjoyed the restaurant’s setting. A warm atmosphere pervades this small, stone-walled establishment. The wine and non-alcoholic beverage list is of the highest quality (Alain Millat fruit juices, etc.). Lunch menus are available, but à la carte dishes are only available in the evening.
Reservations required here.
Romantic activities
- Walk along the ramparts and discover the surprising Le Nomade statue
- Ride the Ferris wheel to admire the views
- Enjoy views of the old town and mountains from Ponteil beach
- Stroll through the narrow streets and market
And find other suggestions in our article on Antibes attractions.
8. La Ciotat: romantic weekend for less
Why choose La Ciotat?
What a wonderful discovery! La Ciotat is a discreet town, but one that really knew how to enchant us. We appreciated its less touristy atmosphere, the charm of its port, dominated by an elegant church, its long golden sandy beaches and its calanques, all within easy walking distance!
What more could you ask for?
La Ciotat has a peaceful atmosphere that we recommend if you’re looking for a little more authenticity.
The hotel
La Ciotat has several nice little hotels on the seafront:
- Best western Premier vieux port hotel – for rooftop pool – See prices, photos and availability
- Hotel A Deux Pas de l’Eau, just off the main beach, for unique decor – see prices, photos and availability
Or see our selection of the best hotels in La Ciotat.
Romantic activities
- Stroll along the harbour and admire the traditional boats
- Visit the Notre-Dame-de-l’Assomption church with its beautiful stonework
- Swimming along the Plage des Lumières
- Walk 20 min to reach the magnificent calanque de Figuerolles (pictured below) or the calanque de Mugel.
- Take the car for a scenic drive along the Route des Crêtes to Cassis
- Tour Île-Verte off the coast of La Ciotat, with beautiful views of the coastline.
- Learn more about the shipyards.
See our article on the best attractions in La Ciotat.
Other ideas for romantic weekends on the Côte d’Azur
- Luxury weekend in Monaco – see our favorite hotels
- A glamorous weekend in Cannes – see our favorite hotels
- Weekend hiking in Saint-Raphaël – see our favorite hotels
And our other weekend ideas:
PLAN YOUR TRIP TO THE Côte d’Azur
- Inspiration
The most beautiful landscapes in 30 photos
Best things to do on the Côte d’Azur
Most beautiful villages
Best beaches on the Côte d’Azur
Most beautiful gardens
Best boat tours (coming soon)
Most beautiful islands
Secret places
- Practical advice
Successful travel on the Côte d’Azur (coming soon)
Rent a car in Provence – in Nice – in Cannes – in Marseille – in Aix-en-Provence.
Itineraries: 5 days – 1 week – 10 days
Weekend ideas: best-of – romantic – luxury – unusual
- Where to stay
Where to stay on the Côte d’Azur
Best luxury hotels on the Côte d’Azur
Hotels by the sea
Best boutique-hotels
