The Best Hotels in Antibes for Every Traveller

One of the joys of a stay at Hôtel La Place Antibes? The chance to people-watch from its restaurant terrace – when you’re in this Riviera town, you never quite know who you’ll see. Settle in with a bottle of chilled rosé, watch the world go by, then retire to one of 14 rooms dressed in aubergine, gold and grey. If you haven’t had your fill of the Antibes sunshine, request one with a private balcony looking out to towering trees.

Antibes has some more laid-back, homely stays than you might find in certain neighbouring Riviera towns, and Le Relais du Postillon is a prime example. This 16-room former post house in the heart of the old city feels unpretentious, with its rooms splashed with floral prints, and apartments with sofa beds. Kick off your day of exploring with breakfast on a sunny terrace, then hire a bike from the hotel to cycle more than 18km (11mi) of dedicated local paths.

Many hotels in the south of France seem built for summer, but Hôtel La Villa Cap d’Antibes has a cosiness that lends itself to stays at all times of year. Take, for example, the roaring fireplace in the lobby – or the spa, where you can unwind in a snug relaxation room with herbal tea after your massage. Even the outdoor swimming pool, fringed with greenery, is heated. And for when the sun’s shining? The beaches of Juan-les-Pins are only a hop away.

Pink shutters, creamy frontage, tiled roof – La Jabotte looks like it’s from a postcard. This homely pick, which may seem like something from the depths of the countryside, is only moments from the beach – making it a great pick for sun-seeking couples or families with older children (kids over eight are welcome). The seven bedrooms, with their floral frescoes and wallpaper, are just as charming as the hotel’s exterior, and spill onto the garden patio.

When you’ve got sun, sea and a beautiful town to explore, you don’t need much else. So if you’re planning to look around Antibes, this stylish boutique hotel is a perfect shout. There aren’t many bells and whistles, but you’ll get a great, pastry-stuffed breakfast to start your day, and a bright and airy room furnished with crisp white sheets and natural woods. Studios, sleeping four, are great for families who are keen to self-cater – they come with a kitchen.

If the beach is your thing, you want cute Juan-les-Pins – and this hotel, in the heart of the town centre, is moments from the sand. Fresh and funky, the design seems made for Instagram – from cactus sculptures to a tiled pool and pops of pale pink and mustard yellow. The rooms? Each one is styled differently, but all are fun: think deliberately kitsch floral wallpaper or luminous throw pillows styled after gold bullion.

This grand old pile channels the glamour of the Roaring ’20s Riviera, with its grand frontage, towering palms and prime seaside location. Inside it feels just as glam, but with a contemporary update: faux animal print, heavy fabrics and brass-based lamps. There are two bars for sinking martinis, and two restaurants (one Michelin-starred) for a budget-blowing dinner, plus a spa by Valmont. But the highlight? The beach – the very one F. Scott Fitzgerald wrote about in Tender is the Night.

For unadulterated luxury in Antibes, Hôtel du Cap-Eden-Roc is the address you need. The exterior brings to mind an opulent Bordeaux château, and the interior is no less impressive. Classic rooms with parquet, endless dining options – don’t miss the al fresco ice cream bar – and a sublime Bamford spa. If you’re travelling with a brood, and budget allows, book one of the villas, with their own private pools, gardens and serviced outdoor dining areas.