Best Places to Propose in the French Riviera ¶
This list is for those who are ready to pop the four-word question and propose in one of the most beautiful and romantic places in the world— the French Riviera. Congratulations on this exciting step you’re about to take!
There are so many incredible backdrops in the Côte d’Azur for a romantic proposal. We know it can be a little nerve-wracking to plan a romantic, heartfelt, and authentic proposal from thousands of kilometres away (and maybe even from a foreign country), so that’s why we’re here for you every step of the way.
The first step to planning your proposal starts with choosing the location, so I’ve made a list of some of my favourite places in the Riviera to propose.
Note: Free public spots appear first, and private venues that require a fee are listed below.
Nice ¶
Colline du Château - Overlooking Promenade des Anglais ¶
Without a doubt, the view from the Colline du Château is my favourite proposal spot in Nice. This lookout offers some of the best views you can get of the entire city and coastline of Nice. Our favourite time of the day for proposals here is either late afternoon or sunset! This is also a great spot if you would like some decorations.
Colline du Château - Overlooking Port Lympia ¶
This overlook is on the other side of the hill and offers a stunning panorama of the port, with its colourful boats and the turquoise sea stretching to the horizon.
Plage Beau Rivage ¶
The beach in Nice offers a perfect blend of romance and natural beauty for a proposal. The sparkling Mediterranean and pebbled beach create an enchanting backdrop. With the serene waves and iconic Promenade des Anglais nearby, it’s an unforgettable, picture-perfect setting to capture love’s most special moment. We would highly recommend sunrise for this spot, as it can get quite busy during the day!
Mont Boron ¶
Perched high above the city, Mont Boron gives you a wide-open view over all of nice, from the old town to the coastline. This spot is perfect in the morning and at sunset.
Coco Beach¶
This isn’t a beach, it’s a rocky viewpoint with beautiful views! We haven’t shot a proposal here yet, but when we were here for a pregnancy shoot we thought it would be a perfect spot!
Èze ¶
Alleyways of Èze Village ¶
Perched high above the Mediterranean, the village of Èze is like something out of a fairytale. Its cobblestone streets, medieval architecture, and lush gardens make it an enchanting location for a proposal. It’s also only a 30-minute drive from Nice.
Château Eza ¶
Château Eza is also located at the hilltop village of Èze. This beautiful hotel offers an ideal spot for a private and intimate moment. Inside the hotel is one of our favourite 1 star Michelin restaurant in the entire riviera that offers a beautiful view of the coast and the Mediterranean sea.
Click here for information on how to privatise any of the balconies overlooking the sea:
Jardin Exotique ¶
The Jardin Exotique is a beautiful place to propose, as you will have a 180° view of Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat and Villefranche-sur-Mer on one side all the way to Cap d’Ail and Monaco on the other side. It is 200€ to propose here during the opening hours, but if you would like a bit more privacy, skip to the next section for directions on how to book the space privately outside of opening hours.
Jardin Exotique Private Booking
The Olive Terrace ¶
That spot is below Jardin Exotique, near Église Notre-Dame-de-l'Assomption de Èze. It’s the quiet stone clearing just under the old village walls, olive trees overhead, sea and hills falling away behind you.
Èze-sur-Mer ¶
Èze-sur-Mer beach is a hidden gem along the French Riviera, perfect for a quiet proposal by the sea. With its smooth pebbles, clear turquoise water, and views of dramatic cliffs above, it feels tucked away from the crowds. Our favourite spot is by the nudist section of the beach!
Menton ¶
The view of the old town on the seaside here is absolutely stunning, offering typical south of France architecture and colours. Sunrise from this viewpoint is especially stunning and offers a truly breathtaking setting for a proposal.
Villefranche-sur-Mer ¶
Villefranche-sur-Mer is a magical spot for a proposal— its harbour, colourful buildings and breathtaking views of the Mediterranean provide a romantic and unforgettable backdrop for the perfect moment.
Overlooking Villefranche-sur-Mer Harbour ¶
From this higher viewpoint you have a unique view overlooking the bay of Villefranche-sur-Mer. Although this spot has the best unobstructed view of the bay, please note that it’s right beside a road, so there may be sounds of cars driving by depending on the timing chosen for your proposal.
Overlooking Villefranche-sur-Mer Harbour II ¶
This is the same viewpoint as above, but from a lower angle.
Plage des Marinières Beach¶
Plage des Marinières has a tranquil setting with clear waters, golden sand, and a stunning view of the town. We would only recommend this spot for sunrise though, as it can get quite busy during the day. The serene atmosphere in the morning and natural beauty create a romantic, intimate space for capturing the perfect moment.
Plage des Marinières Rocky Viewpoint¶
This is the east section of the beach that faces the town of Villefranche-sur-Mer.
Old Town Streets¶
A little quiet street in the picturesque town of Villefranche-sur-Mer.
Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat ¶
Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat is a stunning place for a proposal, the views are clear blue water, dramatic cliffs, and lush greenery all around. You’ll find quiet spots tucked between the rocks, perfect for a private moment, especially the light during sunset. It’s an easy walk but feels like you’ve discovered something special. Whether you’re planning something simple or a bit more planned out, this spot has that “wow” factor without needing much extra.
If you would prefer a private venue in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, click here for Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild Proposal Booking
Cannes ¶
A boat proposal in Cannes gives you distance from everything that makes the Riviera busy. Once you’re out on the water, it’s quiet, private, and serene. Ideal if you want something low-key but still unmistakably special.
Antibes ¶
Cap d'Antibes ¶
This place is for couples who love the outdoors. You can propose on the beach, surrounded by the sounds of the Mediterranean waves. Since this spot gets busy in the afternoons and evenings, We would recommend coming here for sunrises or early mornings.
Grande Roue d'Antibes ¶
This is definitely a more unique option for couples who want to do something out of the ordinary! As the ferris wheel slowly rises, the stunning panoramic views of the Mediterranean coastline, old town, and surrounding landscapes unfold beneath you.
Monaco ¶
Monaco is the ultimate proposal destination for couples who appreciate luxury, offering a blend of glamorous settings and stunning views. Its elegant marina, grand casinos, and chic gardens create a sophisticated backdrop for an unforgettable proposal full of romance.
Lavender Fields of Valensole, Provence ¶
If you are in the South of France in June or July and you are up for a day trip adventure to the lavender fields of Provence, then this is my last recommendation! It’s hard to describe in words how magical it is to propose while being surrounded by the beautiful lavender fields and scent of lavender all around you. Our favourite time for proposals in the fields are usually sunsets, but keep in mind that the summer nights are long and sometimes sunset isn’t until 21:00-21:30 depending on the time of day, so you might want to spend a night in the region as well. This also gives you more time to explore other places in the region like the Luberon Valley!
You can make it extra special by having a French picnic: Our Airbnb Picnic .
Sunflower Fields of Provence ¶
Sunflower fields in Provence are bright, fun, and seriously underrated. Instead of purple rows, you get endless stretches of golden flowers that feel warm, playful, and very relaxed. Late afternoon or sunset is ideal, when the light softens and everything glows, and it’s a great alternative if you want something unexpected without losing that Provence vibe.
Château de Berne, Flayosc¶
Nestled in the heart of Provence's wine country, Château de Berne offers an enchanting setting for an unforgettable proposal. This 1,000-acre estate combines centuries-old charm with modern luxury, featuring rolling vineyards, lavender fields, and olive groves that create a naturally romantic and private backdrop.
Private Venues ¶
Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat ¶
Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild ¶
The luxurious villa and gardens of Ephrussi de Rothschild is located in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat and overlooks the Bay of Villefranche-sur-Mer and Beaulieu-sur-Mer, located just 10 kilometres from Nice and Monaco. If you're a couple who loves gardens, then Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat is a dream location. This beautiful garden and villa is about 15 minutes away from Nice. The lush gardens, adorned with fountains, sculptures, and a stunning sea view, provide an idyllic and romantic setting for your proposal. As of 2024, a shoot in the gardens or patio for a proposal here will be 600€ between 10:00-16:00, for a maximum of 2 people. Fully privatising the villa is 12,000€.
Grand-Hôtel du Cap-Ferrat ¶
A Four Seasons Hotel in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, located about 25-30 minutes away from Nice. This is one of the most luxurious hotels in the entire French Riviera. To book a proposal at this hotel, you can either rent the Belvedere at Club Dauphin for 3,000€ or book one of their private dining experiences.
Èze ¶
Château Eza Suite Médiévale ¶
This is one of our top recommendations for your proposal if you have a higher budget. You can propose in the comfort of your own hotel room with a panoramic view.
Château Eza Private Balconies¶
Château Eza offers two smaller private balconies for rent for 3,00€ during lunch or dinner service. The lunch booking starts at 10:30 and the dinner booking starts at 19:30.
Balcony N20
Balcony N30
Château Eza Salon Royal ¶
The Salon Royal can be fully privatised for the lunch or dinner service. It costs 1,500€ for the booking plus a 1,500€ minimum spend which can be applied towards food and beverages.
Take a look at one of our Château Eza proposal photoshoots in Èze.
Jardin Exotique d’Èze ¶
In order to privatise this space, you would need to book it for the morning before visitors are allowed to enter. The space can be rented from 7:30-9:00 or after closing time from 18:30-20:00 for 1,000€.
Château de la Chèvre d'Or ¶
This is one of the most luxurious five-star hotels in Èze. The only area available for photos is the garden, but it is absolutely beautiful and offers stunning views of the coast and the sea. The hotel only allows guests to use the property, so there is an additional cost for booking a room. If you prefer full privatisation and decoration of the garden, the fee is 1,500€.
Nice ¶
Hôtel du Couvent, a Luxury Collection Hotel¶
A proposal at Hôtel du Couvent feels calm and private, right in the centre of Nice. Hidden behind historic walls, the setting is quiet, elegant, and completely removed from the city outside. It’s ideal if you want something refined and intimate, with beautiful surroundings and zero distractions, while still being in the heart of the Old Town.
