Essential tips for renting a holiday villa this summer

Renting on the Riviera is a dream come true, but navigating the area like a local can make all the difference to your experience.

A stay in a luxury villa isn’t just about where you rest your head—it’s about the experiences that come with it. From exclusive local events to private yacht charters, every moment should be seamless and unforgettable. From basking in the Côte d’Azur sun to wandering the Provençal markets, here’s how to elevate your stay and make the most of your home away from home.

Whether you are a first-time visitor to the coast or a seasoned traveller keen to explore new neighbourhoods, the Savills seasonal rental experts are here to help.

We have gathered expert tips on everything from the best restaurants and scenic day trips to key advice on booking your rental and settling in once you’ve arrived. With these insights, you'll feel like a true Riviera insider, making the most of this stunning Mediterranean setting.

Explore a range of properties available to rent this summer or contact our team today to secure your dream rental property.

1. Tap Into local expertise

Your Savills agent isn’t just a real estate expert—they’re your key to the best of the region. Whether it’s a hidden bistro serving the freshest seafood or a boutique tour, their insider knowledge will transform your stay. Don’t hesitate to ask for personal recommendations, the best experiences often are not in the guidebooks.

2. Choose the right property for your lifestyle and guests

Not all villas are created equal. Do you want the buzz of Saint-Tropez’s nightlife or the serene seclusion of a hillside retreat? Define your non-negotiables—be it a private gym, a pool with panoramic sea views, a bunk room suitable for your children or maybe an office for remote working, let your agent tailor the search accordingly.

3. Book smart & plan ahead

The French Riviera is a year-round paradise, but peak season (May–September) is particularly sought after. Book early, sometimes up to a year in advance, to secure the perfect villa, or rebook for next year if you enjoyed the experience. Review the rental contract carefully, noting details like deposits, cancellation policies, and concierge services or what isn’t included.

4. A smooth arrival is everything

Avoid any first-day hiccups by confirming check-in details with the Savills team. Likewise, make sure you are aware of the check-out process, day and time. This helps settle room arrangements in advance (a game-changer for families with children). If arriving late, inquire about a pre-stocked fridge with gourmet essentials or a private chef to prepare your first meal. The Savills team provide a concierge style service included in your contract so with advance planning they can help.

5. Have key contacts at your fingertips

Save essential numbers—including your agent, property manager, concierge, and a trusted local driver—so you’re always prepared. Whether it’s a last-minute dinner reservation or an unexpected need for a doctor, having the right contacts makes all the difference. Don’t forget to likewise share the full address with a trusted contact in case they need to get hold of you.

6. Indulge in exclusive local finds

The Savills team are devotees of this beautiful region we proudly call home and will happily share their knowledge. One of the region’s best-kept secrets? Bellet wine. Nearly impossible to find outside of the area, making a tasting session or vineyard tour an absolute must.

7. Poolside perfection & safety first

If your villa features a pool, take a moment to familiarize yourself with its safety feature, especially the alarm systems, which vary by model. Poolside afternoons should be stress-free, and a quick walkthrough ensures just that.

8. Experience magical events and day trips at iconic venues

For a night straight out of a fairytale, don’t miss the Nuits de Nocturne at Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild. Picture this: candlelit gardens, classical music, and a gourmet picnic under the stars. Events like these are why the Côte d’Azur remains a timeless escape. But don’t stop there, below is selection of the teams favourite settings and events.

In Antibes, visit the Picasso Museum at Château Grimaldi for masterpieces and stunning sea views, then savor local flavors at the Provençal market. Stroll the Sentier du Littoral along Cap d’Antibes for hidden coves, breathtaking scenery, and the iconic Baie des Milliardaires.

This summer, Beaulieu-sur-Mer will host outdoor concerts and musical events on the beach, offering an idyllic setting to enjoy the summer evenings. While the dates and line-up remain undisclosed, the town has previously welcomed numerous renowned artists such as Bruel, Christophe Maé, Popa Chubby, Joe Satriani, and Lucky Peterson.

Experience the Voiles de Saint-Tropez from the deck of a splendid vessel. This is a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in a truly captivating spectacle, surrounded by sailing boats, each more exquisite than the last, while relishing the refreshing sea breeze throughout.

9. Explore beyond the obvious

Saint-Tropez’s Vieux-Port and Pampelonne Beach are iconic, but venture inland for a different experience. Discover charming hilltop villages like Ramatuelle and Gassin, where cobbled streets, panoramic views, and artisanal cafés offer an authentic slice of Provence. Towards Monaco hike up to settings like Eze village to be rewarded with exceptional views.

10. The art of seamless luxury

From daily housekeeping to private chefs and childminding, full-service luxury is at your fingertips. Concierge teams can arrange everything from yacht charters to in-villa spa treatments—because true relaxation means knowing everything is under control.

11. Get around like a local (or a VIP)

Traffic along the Riviera can be intense, so plan accordingly. Private drivers and luxury car rentals offer effortless mobility, while boat transfers provide a chic alternative to the congested coastal roads.

12. Master the French way of life

A little savoir-faire goes a long way. Always greet shopkeepers, neighbours and market sellers with a friendly Bonjour, this simple kindness goes a long way, linger over meals (the French do not rush dining), and embrace the slower pace of life. These small cultural touches enrich the experience. 

13. Market days & luxury boutiques

If you are staying in Saint-Tropez, the Provençal market is a feast for the senses, fresh lavender, artisan cheeses, and handmade ceramics await. Prefer haute couture? Browse the designer boutiques in town or visit during La Grande Braderie, when luxury labels host an exclusive end-of-season sale. Not staying in Saint-Tropez, make a day trip of it via a boat along the coast.

14. Family travel, perfected

Traveling with children? Many villas offer family-friendly amenities, from heated pools to home cinemas. For activities, consider a sailing lesson, horseback riding through vineyards, or a guided historical tour designed for young adventurers.

15. Wellness trends

Part of holidays is all about the rest and relaxation, why not bring the spa to you? Many villas feature spa style facilities, or offer private wellness services, including massages, personal training, and guided meditation sessions with ocean views. Pair it with a morning hike along the coast or to one of the famed perched villages.

16. Sustainable and conscious travel

The Riviera’s beauty is worth preserving. Opt for eco-friendly experiences like electric car rentals, sustainable seafood restaurants, and villas with green initiatives. Nature lovers will appreciate the pristine trails of the Trois Caps or the crystal-clear waters of L’Escalet Beach or the ever-popular Mala Plage.

17. Picture-Perfect Moments

From sunset over Port Grimaud’s canals to the panoramic vistas of Cap Ferrat, every inch of the Riviera is photogenic. If Instagram-worthy moments are on your agenda, ask your agent for properties with particularly breathtaking terraces or infinity pools or hire a professional photographer to capture your trip.

18. A culinary journey through the French Riviera

Dining here is an experience. From Michelin-starred restaurants to seaside bistros, expect dishes bursting with Mediterranean flavours, think bouillabaisse, truffle-infused pasta, and fresh-caught sea bass.

19. Adventure Beyond the Beaches

While the Riviera is famous for its coastline, there’s plenty more to explore. Hike the Sentier du Littoral, go paragliding over the hills of Roquebrune, or dive into the turquoise waters of the Lérins Islands, famed for the epic novel of Alexandra Dumas, The man in the Iron Mask.

20. The Riviera’s Can’t-Miss Events

From the Monaco Grand Prix to Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez, the social calendar here is legendary. Festivals, regattas, and world-class concerts fill the summer months, so book your tickets early and plan your stay around these unforgettable experiences.

Find out more here. 

Have more questions or want to know about the detail of renting a property here, download our latest guides for both tenant and landlord.

A holiday rental in the South of France is more than just a place to sleep—it’s a gateway to the extraordinary.

Whether you're sipping rare wine at sunset or cruising along the coast in a vintage Riva, the magic of the Riviera is in the details.

Plan ahead, embrace the culture, and let every moment be effortlessly indulgent.