Monday newsletters always feature top 10 travel lists to inspire.
Today: Top 10 best luxury hotels in France
Today is July 14th — Bastille Day — a time of celebration, fireworks, and French pride. It’s also the perfect moment to rediscover the charm, elegance, and indulgence that France offers like nowhere else. Whether you’re wandering through sun-drenched vineyards, relaxing along the glittering Mediterranean coast, or seeking mountain serenity in the French Alps, France is home to some of the world’s most exquisite luxury hotels. Each one tells a story of style, service, and soul — from centuries-old châteaux to modern design sanctuaries. I’ve carefully curated a list of the 10 top best luxury hotels in France — with only one in Paris — to inspire your travels beyond the capital. These destinations combine breathtaking settings, Michelin-starred cuisine, and refined French hospitality to create truly unforgettable stays. So pour a glass of champagne and dive into our guide to the most luxurious places to stay across France this year.
There is more information (with trip reports & YouTube videos) below. Think I missed one? Share your favorite luxury hotel in France in the comments section.
10. HOTEL DE LA CITE CARCASSONNE – MGALLERY BY SOFITEL
Perched atop a hill overlooking the River Aude and the picturesque Lauragais valley, the walled city of Carcassonne is Europe’s largest and most enchanting fortified citadel. This medieval marvel, surrounded by lush Minervois vineyards, sets a breathtaking backdrop for the historic Hotel de la Cité, nestled within its own magnificent gardens. Located between two iconic landmarks — the Roman Château Comtal and the Gothic Basilica of Saint-Nazaire — the hotel offers 60 individually designed rooms and suites that blend timeless traditional décor with modern luxury. Each accommodation is thoughtfully furnished to provide comfort and style, featuring amenities such as air conditioning, soundproofing, direct-dial telephones, and flat-screen televisions. The elegant interiors were masterfully crafted by renowned designers Gerard Gallet and Jean-Michel Ley, ensuring a refined yet welcoming atmosphere that perfectly complements the hotel’s rich historical setting. Guests can also indulge in the hotel’s acclaimed La Barbacane restaurant, a Michelin-starred culinary gem known for its exquisite French cuisine and elegant setting.
9. HOTEL DU PALAIS, BIARRITZ
The iconic Hotel du Palais in Biarritz was originally built as a grand seaside villa by Napoleon III for his wife, Empress Eugénie. What many travelers don’t know is that Eugénie, a Spanish-born beauty, had visited Biarritz long before and was the one who persuaded the Emperor to discover this charming Basque coastal town. Today, this majestic scarlet-and-cream hotel—now part of the prestigious Hyatt’s Unbound Collection portfolio—still radiates its rich imperial heritage. The lavish rooms feature soaring ceilings that create a light, airy ambiance perfectly suited to its stunning oceanfront setting. Guests can enjoy exquisite dining at La Rotunda, the hotel’s elegant restaurant favored by the chic and sophisticated for special celebrations. The expansive wellness center, including a luxurious Guerlain spa and serene sea-view lounges, offers a tranquil retreat—an indulgence that Empress Eugénie herself surely would have treasured. Additionally, the hotel features private beach access and exclusive event spaces, making it a top choice for luxury travelers and discerning guests seeking a refined coastal escape.
- Hotel website: Hotel Du Palais
- Tip: get complimentary VIP perks when booking via Virtuoso (e.g. room upgrade, early check-in, late check-out, daily breakfast, and $100 USD spa credit).
8. THE MAYBOURNE RIVIERA, FRENCH RIVIERA
With its contemporary elegance and captivating vistas, The Maybourne Riviera is swiftly becoming one of the most sought-after stays on the French Riviera—and a standout among France’s finest luxury hotels. Perched dramatically on the rocky cliffs of Roquebrune-Cap-Martin, the hotel’s bold architecture appears to emerge organically from the landscape, reaching toward the shimmering Mediterranean below. Ideally located between Menton and Monte Carlo, the property offers sweeping views over terracotta rooftops, sun-drenched olive groves, and citrus trees heavy with fruit—stretching all the way to the azure horizon. Wander through fragrant citrus orchards and seasonal herb gardens, or indulge in sea-to-table cuisine crafted by acclaimed chefs Mauro Colagreco and Jean-Georges Vongerichten. Every one of the 45 rooms and 24 suites features a private balcony—perfect for sipping a chilled glass of local rosé as you gaze out over the glittering sea. Whether you’re seeking serene sophistication or Riviera glamour, The Maybourne Riviera delivers an unforgettable blend of both.
- Hotel website: The Maybourne Riviera
- Tip: get complimentary VIP perks when booking via Virtuoso (e.g. room upgrade, daily breakfast for two, early check-in, late check-out, and $100 USD resort credit).
7. CHATEAU SAINT-MARTIN & SPA, PROVENCE
Château Saint-Martin & Spa, a distinguished member of the Oetker Collection, is a luxurious hilltop retreat set on 13 hectares (32 acres) of Mediterranean hillside overlooking the charming medieval village of Saint-Paul-de-Vence. With sweeping views of the Côte d’Azur stretching from Nice to Cannes and the blue Mediterranean glimmering in the distance, this romantic sanctuary is one of the French Riviera’s most exclusive hideaways. Steeped in history, the estate dates back to 1115, when it was granted to the Knights Templar by the Count of Provence. While the current château was built in 1936, remnants of the original Templar castle — including a weathered stone wall and drawbridge ruins — still grace the property, offering a powerful connection to its storied past. The hotel’s refined guest rooms and suites reflect elegant French style, with thoughtful details curated by the owner and interiors that combine classic charm with modern luxury. From every angle, guests are treated to panoramic views of the Riviera coastline, making this a perfect destination for those seeking privacy, serenity, and timeless sophistication.
- Hotel website: Chateau Saint-Martin & Spa
- Tip: get complimentary VIP perks when booking via Virtuoso (e.g. room upgrade, early check-in, late check-out, daily breakfast, and $100 USD food & beverage credit).
6. AIRELLES COURCHEVEL, ALPS
Tucked in the exclusive Jardin Alpin district of Courchevel 1850, Airelles Courchevel, Les Airelles offers one of the most enchanting luxury experiences in the French Alps. Resembling a fairytale Austro-Hungarian castle, this ski-in ski-out masterpiece captures the magic of a winter palace, both inside and out. The interiors are just as captivating as the façade — adorned with hand-painted murals, stained-glass windows, and elegant woodwork that transport guests into a storybook setting. With 32 exquisitely designed rooms, 15 lavish suites, and a private apartment, every accommodation promises warmth, sophistication, and comfort at the highest level. Guests can indulge in three gourmet restaurants, unwind in a world-class spa and wellness center, and enjoy direct access to the slopes of Courchevel 1850, one of Europe’s most elite ski destinations. A dedicated team of 240 staff members ensures that every need is not only met but anticipated — whether it’s a personalized dining request or a perfectly timed ski lesson. From its regal ambiance to its unmatched service, Airelles Courchevel is truly one of the best luxury ski hotels in France, where winter dreams come to life.
5. DOMAINE DE MANVILLE, PROVENCE
Domaine de Manville is a serene former farming estate nestled in the heart of Les Baux-de-Provence, where modern luxury meets the timeless beauty of the French countryside. Although the estate offers essential amenities like Wi-Fi, most guests find themselves eager to unplug and immerse in the peaceful surroundings instead. Imagine cycling along quiet, scenic roads, having a picnic in the breathtaking Alpilles mountains, or playing a round on the eco-friendly 18-hole golf course. The estate has 30 stylish rooms and suites, each with its own unique style and atmosphere. For even more privacy, guests can choose from nine villas that include private plunge pools. These villas also offer the option of hiring a personal chef or butler for a truly tailored stay.Wellness is a cornerstone of the Domaine experience. The impressive spa is infused with the scents of native Provençal herbs and natural essences, creating a soothing environment for relaxation and rejuvenation. When it’s time to eat, enjoy fresh meals made from produce grown right on the estate—perfect for slow, relaxing dinners that capture the essence of the region.
- Hotel website: Domaine de Manville
- Tip: get complimentary VIP perks when booking via Virtuoso (e.g. room upgrade, early check-in, late check-out, daily breakfast, and $100 USD spa credit).
4. HÔTEL DE CRILLON, A ROSEWOOD HOTEL, PARIS
Overlooking the historic Place de la Concorde, Hôtel de Crillon is one of Paris’s most prestigious luxury hotels, blending 18th-century grandeur with contemporary elegance. Originally built in 1758, this landmark reopened in 2018 as a Rosewood Hotel, following an extraordinary four-year restoration that honored its rich heritage while embracing modern sophistication. During its transformation, a team of master artisans, designers, and craftsmen worked meticulously to preserve the building’s historic soul while infusing it with fresh Parisian flair. The result is a hotel that feels both regal and welcoming, with 78 beautifully appointed rooms, 36 suites, and 10 signature suites designed in an elegant residential style. Among the highlights are two extraordinary suites — Les Grands Appartements — created by the late fashion icon Karl Lagerfeld, reflecting his unique interpretation of French luxury and artistic modernity. Guests can indulge in fine dining at the hotel’s acclaimed restaurants, relax in the serene spa and wellness center, or take a dip in the tranquil indoor swimming pool, all just steps from the heart of Paris. Hôtel de Crillon stands as a true symbol of luxury hospitality in France, where timeless history meets Parisian sophistication.
- Hotel website: Hôtel de Crillon, a Rosewood Hotel
- Other accolades: Hôtel De Crillon, a Rosewood Hotel, features in my list of the best luxury hotels .
- Tip: get complimentary VIP perks with Virtuoso (e.g. room upgrade, daily breakfast for two, confirmed 10am check-in/4pm check-out, and $100 USD food & beverage or spa credit).
- Review: read my review of Hôtel De Crillon, a Rosewood Hotel, here.
3. AMAN LE MELEZIN, COURCHEVEL, ALPS
Nestled in the heart of Les Trois Vallées, Aman Le Mélézin is one of the best luxury ski hotels in France, combining Alpine elegance with the refined simplicity of the renowned Aman Resorts brand. As Aman’s only property in France, this exclusive retreat blends the group’s signature minimalist Asian design with the cozy charm of a French mountain château. Rising four stories under a dramatic black slate roof, the hotel offers a warm and welcoming après-ski atmosphere, perfectly positioned on the Bellecôte slope in Courchevel 1850 — one of Europe’s most glamorous and sought-after ski resorts. From its doorstep, guests have direct access to pristine runs for all levels, from gentle nursery slopes to exhilarating couloirs, all surrounded by snow-dusted pine forests and panoramic mountain views. Aman Le Mélézin is more than just a ski-in, ski-out destination — it’s a serene Alpine sanctuary where luxury meets adventure, just a short stroll from the heart of Courchevel’s designer boutiques, fine dining, and lively après-ski scene.
2. HOTEL DU CAP-EDEN-ROC, AN OETKER COLLECTION HOTEL, FRENCH RIVIERA
Gracing the southern tip of the Cap d’Antibes, Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc is a legendary French Riviera luxury hotel that has defined elegance and glamour for over a century. Originally built in 1869 as a private mansion and transformed into a hotel in 1887, this historic retreat is set amid acres of lush pine forest, landscaped gardens, and a secluded stretch of sparkling Mediterranean coastline. Guests can choose from a refined selection of rooms, suites, and private villas — all offering sweeping sea views or tranquil parkland surroundings. The atmosphere is timeless, with generations of families and international celebrities returning season after season to bask in the warm, discreet hospitality and superb leisure facilities. Among the highlights: a cliffside infinity pool carved directly from the rocks, a private pontoon, cabanas by the sea, and rich cultural history — from the cabana where Greta Garbo once lounged to the rocky outcrops sketched by Marc Chagall, and the waters where Kirk Douglas famously water-skied. Whether you’re drawn by its Hollywood heritage or serene coastal setting, Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc remains one of the best luxury hotels in France — an iconic Riviera destination where classic charm meets effortless sophistication.
1. GRAND HOTEL DU CAP FERRAT, A FOUR SEASONS HOTEL, FRENCH RIVIERA
Perched on the exclusive Cap-Ferrat Peninsula between Nice and Monaco, the Grand-Hôtel du Cap-Ferrat, a Four Seasons Hotel, is a true icon of the French Riviera. Surrounded by a private 17-acre estate filled with pine trees and vibrant gardens, this legendary property has welcomed royalty, world leaders, celebrities, and artists since 1908. Facing the sparkling Mediterranean, the hotel offers a refined selection of 49 elegant guest rooms, 24 luxurious suites, and an ultra-private villa — all with breathtaking views of the sea or lush forest. From April to October, guests can enjoy the renowned Club Dauphin, a glamorous beach club featuring an Olympic-sized heated seawater pool, stylish cabanas, a sun-soaked deck, and even a private funicular down to the water’s edge. Dining here is just as memorable, with three exceptional restaurants, including the Michelin-starred Le Cap, serving refined contemporary French cuisine.
*** Follow me on Instagram, YouTube, Twitter or Facebook for a daily moment of travel inspiration ***
