The French reputation as a global tourist destination is enhanced by its unrivalled combination of culture, history, and natural beauty. France, known for its famous landmarks, excellent cuisine, and world-class wines, oozes sophistication and charm everywhere it goes.
From the beautiful alleys of Paris to the sun-kissed beaches of the French Riviera and the scenic vineyards of Bordeaux, the country has a wide range of experiences that will captivate visitors. In this magnificent setting, France's top hotels stand out as symbols of luxury, providing elegant rooms, impeccable service, and a distinctly French joie de vivre that captivates guests from all over the world.
Our Top 20 Best Hotels in France
Cap d'Antibes Beach Hotel, Provence
This magnificent hotel on the Cap d'Antibes provides a bit of heaven with its unique address and stunning seaside setting. From the time you arrive, the service is outstanding, with the general manager personally greeting guests. The atmosphere is casual yet sophisticated, with each place designed to maximise enjoyment of the Mediterranean climate. The rooms are spacious and contemporary, with private terraces and luxurious facilities.
The hotel's amenities are first-rate, including a beachfront infinity pool with views of the dazzling sea. Michelin-starred dining is a highlight, with innovative menus designed by famous chef Nicolas Rondelli. For a more relaxed dining experience, the beach restaurant serves tasty food at reasonable pricing.
Overall, this hotel impresses with its outstanding service, beautiful suites, and excellent beachfront location, making it a must-visit destination on the French Riviera.
La Bastide de Gordes, Provence
Nestled in the magnificent backdrop of Gordes, the Bastide embodies Provençal charm with its antique furnishings and panoramic views. The building, which been renovated by Airelles Collection, retains its charm while providing luxurious amenities. From the spectacular pool to the award-winning spa, every feature of the Bastide creates a magical atmosphere.
Rooms are like walking into a period drama, complete with paintings and antique furnishings. The Michelin-starred restaurants serve fine Provencal cuisine, whereas the trattoria provides a more relaxed setting. The clubby bar adds a touch of elegance with its distinctive cocktails.
Overall, the Bastide de Gordes is a haven of elegance and tranquillity, ideal for experiencing the splendour of Provence.
Grand-Hôtel du Cap-Ferrat, A Four Seasons Hotel, Côte d'Azur
The Grand-Hôtel, located atop the magnificent Cap-Ferrat peninsula, oozes richness and elegance. Its beautiful white façade and exquisite gardens set the tone for a very private experience. Guests are greeted with a seamless check-in and brought to the lobby, which is airy and light-filled and features marble floors and chandeliers.
There are numerous amenities available, including a beach club with a picturesque funicular ride, a clifftop infinity pool, and exclusive beach pavilions. The spacious rooms provide quiet views and have opulent amenities such as Hermès bath products and marble baths.
Michelin-starred chef Yoric Tièche creates gastronomic marvels at Le Cap. La Véranda and Club Dauphin provide more relaxed options, all with breathtaking vistas and great cuisine.
In essence, the Grand-Hôtel exemplifies Riviera Providing unmatched service, beautiful views, and insane dinning options.
Cheval Blanc, Courchevel
Cheval Blanc, located in Courchevel 1850, exemplifies Alpine luxury with its welcoming atmosphere and breathtaking views of the Jardin Alpin and Bellecote slopes. Sybille de Margerie designed the interiors, which combine cosy Alpine themes with modern art and design.
The service is exceptional, with a specialised team attending to every guest's needs, from warming ski boots to personalised gestures such as favourite flavours and unusual experiences. The spa provides rejuvenating treatments like revolutionary massages and anti-aging facials.
The rooms and suites are beautifully equipped, with facilities such as private chromotherapy hammams and cedar-scented candles. Dining is a culinary feast, with inventive cocktails at the bar and Michelin-starred food at Le 1947. In essence, Cheval Blanc provides an unforgettable Alpine getaway with magnificent design, superb service, and exceptional dining experiences.
Hôtel La Pérouse, Côte d'Azur
La Pérouse, located between the old town and the port sector, has an unrivalled location in Nice. This 1930s beauty has recently been refurbished and emanates maritime charm with stylish touches and a cosy environment.
The hotel has outstanding amenities, including a pool with spectacular views, a sauna, and a rooftop hot tub overlooking the Mediterranean. While traversing the labyrinthine layout may be difficult for some, the service is pleasant and efficient.
Rooms are tastefully designed in sandy tones, with the majority providing balconies with breathtaking sea views. Suites include additional facilities such as rooftop terraces and hot tubs, while all guests receive Nespresso machines and Fragonard toiletries. Le Patio restaurant offers a pleasant eating experience among lemon trees and jasmine plants. Chef Damien Andrews creates a menu that highlights local foods, including unique dishes such as focaccia French breakfast and thyme-roasted stone fish.
To summarise, La Pérouse provides an ideal balance of luxury, comfort, and convenience for an unforgettable stay in Nice.
Château Troplong Mondot, Saint-Émilion
Perched on a hillside overlooking the lovely village of Saint-Émilion, this estate provides a fully comprehensive wine country experience. Premier Grand Cru Classé classification ensures high quality, while personalised experiences introduce guests to the world of winemaking.
The small, dedicated team offers personalised service, including informative tours and wine tastings. Guests can ride electric bikes through the vineyards or relax by the heated outdoor pool while taking in the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
The accommodations combine historic beauty with modern conveniences, providing spacious rooms with original features and luxurious amenities. From claw-foot baths to rain showers and grape vistas from every window, every element is carefully planned to provide a wonderful stay.
The Keys serves a polished continental breakfast daily, complete with exquisite jams, creamy yoghurts, and freshly baked pastries. The vineyard restaurant promises an unforgettable dining experience, using locally produced, fresh ingredients and spectacular vineyard views.
In essence, this estate offers a great balance of elegance, peace, and culinary pleasures for both wine connoisseurs and bon vivants, making it an excellent hideaway in the heart of Saint-Émilion's wine country.
The Ritz, Paris
The Ritz Paris, located on the iconic Place Vendôme (great for luxury shopping), epitomises luxury and timeless elegance. Since its inception in 1898 by César Ritz, it has been a beacon of elegance, receiving illustrious guests like duchesses and Hollywood stars like F. Scott Fitzgerald. The rooms combine richness and history, with beautiful furnishings, marble fireplaces, and sumptuous facilities. The views span from the hotel's lush internal garden to the landmark Place Vendôme.
Dining options abound, including the fine dining restaurant Espadon, the all-day brasserie Bar Vendôme, and the private Salon Proust for afternoon tea. The Ritz Bar and Bar Hemingway provide unique atmospheres for evening cocktails. The Ritz Club & Spa has a magnificent swimming pool beneath a trompe-l'oeil ceiling and provides excellent spa treatments utilising Biologique Recherche products.
Service is kind and unpretentious, making guests feel right at home at this big establishment. Families are welcome, and amenities are designed to accommodate various generations, assuring a pleasant and comfortable visit for everyone.
Le Vieux Castillon, Castillon-du-Gard
Nestled in the heart of Castillon-du-Gard, this hotel provides a delightful hideaway amidst the mediaeval grandeur of the surrounding area. It is only a short walk or bike ride from the iconic Pont du Gard aqueduct, and it offers easy access to historic attractions and gorgeous scenery.
The hotel has undergone exquisite restoration, with exposed stone, historic staircases, and a central terrace decorated with olive and cypress trees. Guests can unwind in the comfortable lounges or beside the attractive heated pool, which is enclosed by old walls that form a sunny paradise.
Service is attentive and discreet, and the bilingual staff ensures a nice stay. There is a modest L'Occitane spa, complimentary bicycles for exploring the neighbourhood, and outdoor cinema screenings by the pool during the summer nights.
Accommodations include 34 airy and beautifully decorated rooms, each with its own distinct charm and modern facilities such as Bose Bluetooth speakers and Nespresso machines. Suites, such as Room 42, with its private terrace overlooking the church, offer additional luxury.
Chef Benoît Dahai's inventive seasonal dishes excite customers at La Table du Castillon, which also offers a vegetarian menu and a €29 (£25) 'Menu du Marché' for lunch. Breakfast includes a delectable buffet of organic scrambled eggs and other delicacies.
Cheval Blanc, Paris
Cheval Blanc Paris, located in the heart of Paris, provides a luxurious hideaway near iconic attractions such as Notre Dame Cathedral and the Eiffel Tower. The hotel, meticulously rebuilt by architects Édouard François and Peter Marino, has Art Deco charm while still incorporating contemporary elegance.
Marino's interiors showcase stunning winter gardens and a vibrant colour palette that lifts the ambiance. Rooms are havens of tranquilly, decorated in soothing white tones and offering panoramic views of the Seine River. The service is sophisticated, with thoughtful touches like hot bubble tubs and delicious cucumber-mint water beside the pool.
There are numerous facilities, including a 30-meter swimming pool, a Rossano Ferretti Hair Salon, and a Dior Spa that provides revitalising treatments. The dining selections are a culinary pleasure, ranging from creative dishes at Plénitude to seafood specialties at Langosteria. Limbar provides a diverse experience, ranging from a daytime café to an evening cocktail bar.
Cheval Blanc Paris is the pinnacle of luxury in the City of Light, with its refined style, dedicated service, and first-rate amenities.
Hotel Byblos, St Tropez
Hotel Byblos, located in the centre of St Tropez village, oozes Mediterranean charm with its colourful front and Provençal-inspired interior design. The hotel's great position allows you easy access to Avenue Foch's shops and cafes, as well as local attractions such as Place des Lices and the Annonciade Museum.
Hotel Byblos treats visitors like royalty with its high service standards and top-notch facilities, which include an outdoor pool, fitness centre, and a magnificent spa featuring Sisley treatments. A shuttle service to Byblos Beach and the famous Caves du Roy nightlife adds to the appeal of staying here.
The hotel's 90 rooms, including 50 suites, have a shabby chic style with Provençal characteristics. Classic rooms have big layouts and beautiful views, whereas Deluxe rooms and Duplex suites offer more comfort and seclusion. The newly remodelled Suites du Roy, including the Missoni Home suite, exude elegance with their modern decor and special amenities.
Hotel Byblos, led by chef Rocco Séminara, takes guests on a culinary adventure using fresh herbs and organic vegetables. Cucina Byblos offers a variety of eating alternatives, including light poolside fare and gourmet Italian cuisine. The hotel's grocery store provides an assortment of Byblos-produced treats to take home.
Grand Hotel de Cala Rossa, Corsica
Cala Rossa, located in Porto-Vecchio, provides a peaceful vacation with its exquisite ambiance and ideal location. It is easily accessible by car or the hotel's boat, making it ideal for exploring neighbouring sights and expensive dining alternatives.
Cala Rossa's soaring ceilings, flagstone floors and rustic furnishings convey a homely yet elegant charm. The welcome hall has antique mirrors and comfortable seats, while the bar and dining room have open brickwork fireplaces and wooden beams. Outside, a lush courtyard leads to a covered bar with views of the private beach and Porto-Vecchio harbour.
The hotel's spa provides sumptuous treatments utilising Corsican botanicals, while the suites, which span three stories, include sophisticated decor and private patios with ocean views. La Table's gastronomic offerings highlight locally sourced foods, with Chef Pascal Cayeux creating unique meals inspired by the hotel's kitchen garden.
Overall, Cala Rossa provides a calm refuge with superb service and exceptional culinary experiences, making it an excellent choice for a Corsican holiday.
Le K2 Chogori, Val d'Isere
Le K2, located near Val d'Isère's renowned church, provides a perfect blend of elegance and alpine charm. The hotel's excellent location provides easy access to both ski lifts and boutiques, while summer skiing and neighbouring Tignes are just a short drive away.
The Capezzone family designed the hotel's Tibetan-inspired décor, which combines mountain culture with modern elegance. The attentive staff, many of whom have relocated from Courcheval with the proprietors, provide friendly and quality service. Guests can enjoy a variety of amenities, including a cutting-edge gym, spa treatments, and a boutique that provides high-quality ski services.
The rooms and suites offer breathtaking views of the church and snowy peaks, as well as stylish design and luxurious facilities. L'Altiplano offers a gastronomic adventure that combines Peruvian flavours with local ingredients, while Bar 1954 serves creative cocktails and small nibbles.
Overall, Le K2 is a mesmerising destination for both winter and summer excursions in the French Alps.
Royal Champagne Hotel & Spa, Champagne
This pastoral jewel, nestled between the charming towns of Champillon and Hautvilliers and overlooking Dom Perignon's ultimate resting place, is only a few minutes from Champagne's capital, Épernay. Designed by architect Giovanni Pace, the hotel blends in with its surroundings, with an attractively curving front that accommodates numerous amenities such as a swimming pool, spa, and herb garden.
The interior decor pays respect to the region's vineyards, with natural materials like as oak and stone underpinning the design. The 49 large rooms provide spectacular vineyard views, outdoor patios, and premium amenities like Hermès toiletries and Illy coffee machines.
The service is friendly and professional, but the restaurant personnel may still be finding their feet. Electric bikes are provided for exploring the picturesque countryside, and the tasting facility provides an in-depth explanation of champagne. The spa provides a variety of services, while two huge swimming pools promote relaxation.
Le Royal, led by Chef Jean-Denis Rieubland, is known for its Michelin-starred food. From breakfast to dinner, expect exceptional meals that highlight local flavours, such baked cod and veal sweetbread filled with chorizo. In essence, this countryside retreat provides the ideal balance of luxury, tranquilly, and culinary pleasure amidst the beauties of Champagne.
La Maison d'Estournel, Saint-Estèphe
Nestled among Médoc grapes and overlooking the Gironde estuary, this boutique hotel on the picturesque D2 wine road is a wine lover's paradise. With no public transport close, a car is required for exploring, though complimentary electric bikes are available for rental.
The mansion-turned-hotel exudes charm, with solid oak floors and subtle wine-themed décor throughout. Former inhabitant Louis Gaspard d'Estournel's love of India is reflected in colourful touches such as elephants guarding the cellars.
Service is attentive, and guests feel right at home. While there is no pool or spa, the gorgeous gardens, sun-soaked patio, and well-stocked library provide plenty of relaxing possibilities.
The rooms, while cosy, are wonderfully decorated with vintage furniture and vine-inspired colours. Swish bathrooms include open-plan designs and rain showers inspired by wood barrels.
The buffet breakfast is a French delight, and the supper menu includes gourmet dishes produced using locally sourced vegetables. Guests can even peep into the open kitchen and learn the chef's secrets.
La Réserve Ramatuelle, Côte d'Azur
Tucked away in the quiet beauty of Provence, La Réserve provides a refuge within easy distance of both Pampelonne Beach and bustling St. Tropez. Its architecture, with muted tones and big windows framing Mediterranean views, embodies Provencal grace. The service is outstanding, reflecting the La Réserve group's recognised standards, and there has a comprehensive spa with Nescens wellness programmes.
Accommodations include eight rooms and 19 suites, all with wide layouts and private patios with sea views. White-on-white bathrooms exude luxury, with freestanding tubs and La Réserve's distinctive amenities. For those seeking complete privacy, 14 serviced villas provide a refuge with private pools and gardens, as well as hotel services such as private chefs and butlers.
Chef Eric Canino of the Michelin-starred La Voile restaurant creates delightful dishes with ingredients collected from the property's garden and local fisherman. Rooftop dining provides Japanese delights under the skies. Meanwhile, La Réserve à la Plage at Pampelonne Beach dishes guests fresh ceviche and grilled catch of the day in a chic beach club setting designed by Philippe Stark.
Begin your day with a delectable breakfast that includes homemade gluten-free bread, fresh fruits, and a variety of egg dishes prepared to request.
Le Refuge de Solaise, Val d'Isere
Perched high above Val d'Isère, entrance to the hotel in winter is by the Solaise bubble lift, which is perfect for keen skiers but limits movement after the lifts close. The hotel, which can accommodate up to 110 people, repurposes the ancient cable car station, combining exposed stone and wood interiors with tartan carpets and ambient lighting to create a cosy mountain refuge. The staff, including the owners, live on-site, allowing for more seamless service.
Perched high above Val d'Isère, entrance to the hotel in winter is by the Solaise bubble lift, which is perfect for keen skiers but limits movement after the lifts close. The hotel, which can accommodate up to 110 people, repurposes the ancient cable car station, combining exposed stone and wood interiors with tartan carpets and ambient lighting to create a cosy mountain refuge. The staff, including the owners, live on-site, allowing for more seamless service.
Château Saint-Martin & Spa, Provence
Nestled high above Vence, this château provides a peaceful escape while keeping handy to local activities. Despite its distant location, a helipad enables for quick trips to Monaco, while St. Paul and Vence are only minutes away by automobile. The chateau, which was once a Knights Templar stronghold, flawlessly blends ancient appeal with contemporary beauty.
The main bar oozes old-world charm, but the rest of the property is decorated with modern accents, including intriguing art installations. The chateau, which was once a Knights Templar stronghold, flawlessly blends ancient appeal with contemporary beauty. The main bar oozes old-world charm, but the rest of the property is decorated with modern accents, including intriguing art installations.
Le Saint-Martin serves superb Provencal cuisine against a backdrop of breathtaking views. Wine tastings and private dinner events enhance the culinary allure. A buffet breakfast and relaxed dinner options round out the gastronomic experience.
Hotel Version Maquis Citadelle, Corsica
Nestled amidst Bonifacio's stunning limestone cliffs, this hotel provides a peaceful retreat just minutes away from the city's prominent landmarks. It's a great base for discovering Corsica's natural beauties, with the famed Sperone golf course just a short drive away in one direction and the calm maquis environment in the other.
The hotel's clean and modern design combines effortlessly with its surroundings, which include timber decks, well-kept gardens, and contemporary furnishings. Whether lazing by the pool or dining in the restaurant, visitors enjoy breathtaking vistas and superb service.
Each of the fourteen suites exudes luxury and comfort, with king-sized four-poster mattresses, walk-in bathrooms, and private patios with panoramic views. The hotel's restaurant, Le VM, tantalises the taste buds with elegant Franco-Italian cuisine, attracting both guests and locals.
From exploring the picturesque alleys of Bonifacio to embarking on sailing adventures throughout the Lavezzi archipelago, there are plenty of activities to do. With attentive service and careful amenities, this hotel guarantees a great stay in Corsica's breathtaking countryside.
Château St Pierre de Serjac, Puissalicon
Serjac, nestled between stunning scenery, vineyards, and attractive villages, provides a tranquil refuge that is easily accessible from Beziers or Montpellier airports. It's conveniently located about half an hour from beaches and an hour from Carcassonne and Montpellier, making it ideal for visiting the surrounding region.
The impeccably rebuilt château radiates a relaxing atmosphere, with a cosy bar and a bistro-style restaurant. Outside, a vast infinity pool surrounded by comfortable loungers serves as the main point, creating a relaxed environment reminiscent of staying with a wealthy relative.
Guests can enjoy a number of on-site amenities, including a huge spa, tennis court, and winery. Bikes are available for touring the estate or venturing out into the neighbouring area, and staff are happy to recommend nearby excursions and restaurants.
Accommodations range from specially decorated château rooms with excellent amenities to high-end apartments and mansions equipped with modern comforts. The restaurant serves French cuisine created with locally sourced ingredients and includes a continental breakfast buffet as well as self-catering alternatives such as BBQ kits and takeaway pizzas.
Regular events, such as tapas evenings and breakfasts, contribute to the lively environment, providing a great stay at Serjac.
Hotel Lou Pinet, St Tropez
The hotel, nestled amidst lavender fields, is a quiet refuge just minutes from the bustling centre of St Tropez. A complimentary shuttle service provides easy access to the town and Tahiti Beach.
The hotel, which is part of the Maisons Pariente group, emanates a cosy countryside atmosphere with Provence-inspired decor and modern conveniences. Service is superb, with attentive staff and excellent concierge help. The wide pool area is ideal for relaxation, while a cave-like spa provides restorative treatments.
The rooms are tastefully furnished, with private gardens or patios. The Beef Bar restaurant serves Mediterranean cuisine with Japanese elements, and the buffet breakfast has a delicious variety of alternatives.
Overall, the hotel offers a magnificent but relaxed getaway in the heart of St Tropez's stunning surroundings.
Conclusion
France's greatest hotels provide a unique blend of grandeur, charm, and refinement, inviting visitors to enjoy the country's rich cultural heritage and superb hospitality. From the Riviera's sun-kissed beaches to Provence's rolling vineyards, each hotel offers a one-of-a-kind and unforgettable experience. Whether it's savouring exquisite cuisine, lounging in lavish spas, or simply bathing in stunning vistas, these hotels embody French elegance.
With their outstanding service and attention to detail, they welcome visitors from all over the world to immerse themselves in the timeless appeal of France's most magical sites. A visit to these great hotels offers a journey full of wonderful moments and treasured experiences that will leave travellers wanting to return again and again.
