Here at Alejandra Poupel Events, we believe in the magic of the moment. And moments don’t get any more magical than they do on the balmy Côte d’Azur! This extraordinary region, also known as the French Riviera, is a favorite of ours for luxury destination weddings in France, not least because of the incredible Côte d’Azur wedding venues. From romantic medieval villages to glamorous seaside villas and lavish hotels, there are endless opportunities to enjoy the spectacular views, gastronomy, and service that have made the South of France so iconic. Read on for my insider’s take on the very best Côte d’Azur wedding venues!

The Côte d’Azur is located in the southernmost part of France, where the craggy, pine-clad coastline meets the dreamy blue of the Mediterranean sea. This is the region immortalized by the French Impressionist painters. It’s a playground for the rich and famous, where the sunshine (almost!) never ends. Towns like Nice, Cannes, and Monte Carlo are synonymous with glamour. But there are also quiet hilltop villages, pristine beaches, and beautiful historic chateaux and gardens. Very little needs to be added to set the tone for a luxurious and romantic destination wedding here. And, as well as playing host to a number of amazing Côte d’Azur wedding venues, the Riviera also has the advantage of the best of the French wedding industry available to work here.

Here is my personal selection of the best Côte d’Azur wedding venues, each more beautiful than the last!

Four Seasons Grand-Hotel du Cap-Ferrat

In the heart of the Saint Jean Cap Ferrat peninsula, the most exclusive and unspoiled area of the Côte d’Azur, you’ll find the famed Four Seasons Grand-Hotel du Cap-Ferrat. Just a thirty-minute drive from Monte Carlo, this five-star property is amongst the world’s finest hotels. You can hold your ceremony in the delightful Villa Rose. Or exchange vows in the exquisite Volupte Gardens, which are also available as an alfresco reception venue should you choose to buy out all 400 rooms of the hotel. Alternatively, there is the legendary all-white Club Dauphine, with its stunning ocean views and late-night Ibiza party vibe. Whichever parts of the property you choose for your big day, you can expect unparalleled service and wow-factor gastronomy. A wedding here is truly an experience! Get my top tips for booking this iconic venue here.

Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild

This historic villa is considered one of the most beautiful properties on the French Riviera, and the most exceptional of Côte d’Azur wedding venues. The house and extensive themed gardens overlooking the sea were commissioned by the Baroness Beatrix de Rothschild. Now owned by the Institut de France’s Academy of Fine Arts, it still plays host to the Baroness’s impressive collection of artwork and furnishings and functions as a museum during the day. But once the visitors have left, it can be transformed into a magical location for your ceremony or reception. One of my favorite options is to set up a starlight dinner in the gardens, with the rose-colored villa as a backdrop. There are also indoor alternatives, depending on the number of guests. Find out more about this iconic property here.

Château Saint-Martin and Spa

The Château Saint-Martin is a historic chateau with a modern twist, a mix of old world charm and contemporary opulence. Part of the prestigious Oetker Collection, the five-star sanctuary is situated just half an hour from Nice airport, within easy distance of Cannes and Antibes. For a wedding here, the scenery is the highlight. Whether it’s a garden ceremony, poolside cocktails, or drinks and dining on the terraces, the Mediterranean views are unforgettable. Later, head inside to the Bar Rossini, where guests can enjoy late-night drinking and dancing in the wood-paneled bar. Find out more about why this French Riviera wedding venue is the perfect place for your wedding party to bond here.

Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc

If I had to choose my idea of pure heaven on earth, the Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc would be it. This legendary hotel nestles in a secluded 22 acres of gardens and private coastline. It is a dream come true for any bride and groom. For the ceremony, there’s no grander entrance than along the 100 meter natural pathway between the hotel and the sparkling Mediterranean sea, while the Champagne Lounge makes for an elegant indoor alternative. And there’s nothing quite like a formal dinner in the lush gardens, surrounded by trees pine and palm trees strung with hundreds of lights. And needless to say, the service and dining are exceptional! Learn more about the Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc (and my top tip for when to make a booking) here.

Domaine des Lys

A true hidden gem on the French Riviera, the Domaine Des Lys is the perfect location for a destination wedding. Set near the picturesque medieval village of St. Paul, the property is private and secluded, offering the ultimate in tranquility and security. It was designed for luxurious living, with 1200 sqm of beautifully appointed living space. With mountain and ocean views to enjoy, I love arranging cocktail hour poolside, close to the terraced olive gardens, followed by an open-air dinner for up to 350 guests. Find out more about this Côte d’Azur wedding venue here.

Want to see more? You’ll find the rest of my picks of the best Côte d’Azur wedding venues (including a private Belle Époque palace in Saint-Tropez) here.