Vacation Rentals by Owner

Overview of French Riviera (Cote d'Azur) Vacation Rentals

The French Riviera is the Perfect Vacation Destination

The French Riviera, also known as the Côte d'Azur, has all the glitz and glamor you could ever hope for. It is rivaled by few places on earth which makes it one of the truly magical and inviting vacation destinations of all time. Situated on the French coast of the Mediterranean Sea, the Alps protect the area from the harsh inland winds while the sultry Mediterranean’s warm gentle breezes draw you in. This dreamland makes French Riviera villas the perfect escape from the daily grind of your real life. Once you stay here, you will never want to go home!

When to Book French Riviera Accommodations

The summer months on the French Riviera, particularly July and August, can be stifling hot but crowded as well. If you want to avoid throngs of tourists and other vacationers, the summer is not the best time to go. Furthermore, you will find that prices are higher during this peak season as well. June and September are the ideal months to plan on booking French Riviera vacation rentals simply because the weather is gorgeous and the prices are right. It is important to know the vacation habits of the locals before you plan your trip as well. From mid-July throughout August, almost all of France is on vacation, so that may pack the roads, rentals, and beaches. You will also want to watch out for May with all of its church holidays as many main attractions are closed.

French Riviera Helpful Travel Tips

As you plan your trip to the French Riviera, knowing how to get in and around is a key element of having a successful vacation. If you plan to fly in, the Nice Côte d'Azur Airport is probably your best bet as it sits between Antibes and Nice. There are frequent flights between major cities across the globe and Paris which is then only an hour flight to Nice. The train is also a possibility as Nice is a major crossroads for trains arriving from Paris, northern French cities, and Italy. The Côte d'Azur line is also pleasing to tourists as it affords many great sights along the way. Taking the bus or having a rental car allows you to penetrate deeper into the smaller villages and backcountry spots throughout the region. If you plan on visiting the lesser traveled paths, these may be your best bet. You will be able to get a bus schedule easily from any travel agent or from the bus depot itself. Be sure to rent your car from one of the main rail stops.

For additional Côte d'Azur helpful tourist information visit French Riviera travel guide on iGuide.

Talking the Talk

Because much of the region makes its living through some form of tourism or another, many people will have no problem speaking English, especially in the most popular tourist areas. You may also find that many of the waiters and managers speak English natively or fluently but it would not hurt to try your best at French. Service is always better when you try the native language.

Staying Safe

Staying safe on vacation is always a main concern and the French Riviera is no different. Though Monaco lodging is very safe, the rest of the region has a reputation that challenges personal safety. Petty crimes such as pickpocketing, car theft, and burglary are all too common. Just do your best to avoid being a victim by staying aware of your surroundings, locking the door to your French Riviera accommodations, and not flaunting your valuables.

Things to do and See

The French Riviera is famous for St. Tropez, Monaco and the Cannes Film Festival. But there are plenty of lesser known attractions for you to enjoy. Have you thought about visiting the perfumeries of Grasse, the glass-blowers of Biot, or the perched quaint villages of Eze and Gourdon? Stepping into these areas will make you feel as though you have stepped into a living Picasso painting. Filled with mountain scenery, beach views, and everything in between, the French Riviera allows for a chic, energetic, and unforgettable vacation every time you visit.