Aaah… the French Riviera! Just saying it feels like stepping into sunshine, style, and a little bit of magic. Welcome to the space where planning your dream wedding starts to feel real. For couples drawn to golden light, coastal charm, and timeless elegance—you’re in exactly the right place.
This stretch of southern France isn’t just beautiful—it’s effortlessly iconic. From candlelit dinners in hilltop gardens to seaside vows and sunset toasts, the Riviera brings every moment to life with that perfect blend of French sophistication and relaxed joy.
Think barefoot elegance, rosé-filled evenings, and the kind of celebration that looks as good as it feels. Whether the vision includes a chic villa, a historic château, or a private garden overlooking the sea, the South of France delivers it all—wrapped in sunshine and tied with a silk ribbon.
This is where luxury feels natural, beauty feels effortless, and your wedding story begins with style and soul.
Key Insights
- The French Riviera offers an unbeatable mix of coastal beauty, luxury venues, and effortless elegance—perfect for destination weddings with wow factor.
- Wedding costs in the French Riviera typically range between €50,000 and €200,000, with high-end celebrations including yachts, villas, and gourmet dining exceeding €250,000.
- Legal wedding ceremonies in France must take place at the local town hall, which is why most international couples choose a symbolic ceremony instead.
- Top wedding locations on the Côte d’Azur like Nice, Saint-Tropez, Cannes, Antibes, and Monaco each offer a distinct atmosphere—from romantic to regal.
- Hiring local vendors and a planner who understand the region ensures a stress-free planning process and smooth execution on the day.
- Getting to the French Riviera is convenient via Nice and Marseille airports, with luxury transfers and early arrivals helping guests settle in comfortably.
How Much Does a Wedding on the French Riviera Cost?
Breaking Down the Budget
Planning a wedding on the French Riviera offers a stunning backdrop, but it comes with a luxury price tag. Costs vary significantly depending on the venue, guest count, and level of service. Whether you’re envisioning an intimate cliffside ceremony or a multi-day celebration with yacht parties and gourmet dining, here’s a breakdown of what to expect:
- Average wedding budget: Most destination weddings on the Riviera fall between €50,000 and €200,000+, depending on the number of guests, venue type, and overall level of customisation.
- Luxury venue rental: High-end venues such as châteaux, sea-view villas, or five-star hotels typically start at €15,000 per day, with some requiring multi-day minimum bookings.
- Catering: A refined three-course meal with regional wines and full service generally ranges from €15,000 to €20,000+, with pricing influenced by the menu, wine selection, and guest count.
- Wedding planner: A professional wedding planner with mid-range fees will typically cost between €5,000 and €20,000, depending on their experience, services offered, and involvement throughout the planning process.
- Additional costs: Essential extras such as floral design, entertainment, photography, transportation, and guest accommodation can quickly accumulate and should be factored into your overall budget from the start.
For couples seeking a refined, high-impact celebration in one of Europe’s most glamorous regions, the French Riviera offers unforgettable value—just be ready to invest in the experience.
Legal Requirements for Getting Married in France
Civil vs Symbolic Ceremonies
In France, only a civil ceremony performed at the local mairie (town hall) is legally recognized. This ceremony is typically conducted by the mayor or a deputy and must take place in a public setting.
- At least one partner must reside in France for 30 consecutive days prior to the civil ceremony to meet legal requirements.
- Civil ceremonies cannot be held at private venues, hotels, or châteaux.
- Due to these residency rules, most international couples legally marry in their home country and opt for a symbolic ceremony in France instead.
- Symbolic ceremonies allow greater flexibility in location, timing, and personal touches—making them the popular choice for destination weddings on the Riviera.
Choosing Your Wedding Location on the Côte d’Azur
Each town along the French Riviera offers its own unique atmosphere, from historic seaside elegance to high-end luxury. Your choice of location will shape the entire experience—from your ceremony backdrop to guest accommodations and activities.
- Nice combines classic French elegance with Mediterranean sea views, charming Old Town streets, and impressive Baroque architecture—ideal for couples wanting a mix of tradition and vibrancy.
- Saint-Tropez offers beachside glamour and exclusivity, with luxury villas, upscale nightlife, and a reputation for hosting the international elite.
- Cannes is a sophisticated choice with its film-festival prestige, iconic beachfront hotels, and glamorous venues perfect for stylish, statement-making weddings.
- Antibes blends romantic coastal scenery with artistic heritage and a more relaxed charm, offering a quieter yet still luxurious setting for your celebration.
- Monaco promises royal-level luxury, grand architecture, and breathtaking harbor views—perfect for couples seeking a regal and refined wedding experience.
How to Choose the Perfect Wedding Venue on the French Riviera
From Private Villas to Seaside Palaces
Choosing your venue is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make—and on the French Riviera, you’re spoiled for choice. From tucked-away villas to grand seaside châteaux, luxury hotels, beach clubs, and even yachts, there’s something for every kind of celebration.
Start by thinking about your guest list, the kind of setting you imagine (coastal, countryside, historic, modern), and whether having accommodation on-site matters to you. These details will help narrow things down and shape the flow of your wedding weekend.
If you can’t visit in person, no worries—just arrange a virtual walk-through with your planner or venue contact. You’ll want to get a feel for the layout, the lighting, and where things like the ceremony, dinner, and dancing will actually take place.
One more thing? The most sought-after spots book up fast—often a year or more in advance, especially from May through September. So if something catches your heart, don’t wait too long to secure it.
The right venue will do more than host your wedding—it sets the stage for the memories you’ll keep forever.
Accommodations and Guest Experience
Hosting with Style and Ease
Ensuring your guests feel welcomed and cared for is key to creating a memorable destination wedding experience. Thoughtful planning around where they stay and how they get around can make all the difference.
- Book hotel blocks, private villas, or serviced apartments close to the venue to suit a range of budgets and preferences while keeping everyone nearby.
- Prepare welcome bags with local maps, sunscreen, water, and small regional treats to give guests a warm and practical arrival experience.
- Arrange transportation such as shuttles, minibuses, or private cars to take guests to and from the venue safely and comfortably, especially if the location is remote or difficult to access.
Hiring a Wedding Planner in the French Riviera
Your Calm in Paradise
Planning a wedding on the French Riviera? The light, the landscapes, the food… it’s pure magic. But if you’re coordinating everything from abroad, trust us: having a local wedding planner is everything.
Think of your wedding planner as your anchor—someone who knows the ins and outs of the region, speaks the language (literally and culturally), and can keep everything flowing while you focus on the fun parts. They’ll help you avoid the usual hiccups, navigate local customs, and deal with vendor contracts and logistics you might not even know exist.
Make sure to choose someone who speaks your language (English-speaking is key!) and truly gets your style. You want to feel like you’re on the same page from the start—that way, you can build trust and feel completely relaxed knowing your vision is in good hands.
The best planners in the Riviera won’t just manage the wedding day—they’ll help you plan the whole experience: welcome cocktails, day-of magic, and even the post-wedding brunch. They become your voice on the ground, your problem-solver, your creative partner.
And honestly? Knowing someone local is making sure everything is taken care of while you sip rosé by the sea… priceless!
Styling & Décor Ideas for Your French Riviera Wedding
Laid-back Luxury, Just Like the Riviera
If you’re planning your wedding on the French Riviera, now let’s talk styling. The magic of the Riviera is in its light, its sea air, and that effortless, sun-kissed elegance. You don’t need to overdo it—just let the surroundings lead the way.
Start with a soft, natural palette that mirrors the landscape: think ivory and blush, touches of terracotta, dusty blue skies, and that perfect seafoam green. It’s calm, romantic, and completely timeless.
Then, layer in textures—linen tablecloths, French white metal chairs, stoneware, and maybe a hint of gold or glass for that subtle sparkle. Nothing too perfect or polished—just relaxed and beautiful, like a long summer lunch in on the Riviera.
Want a little more coastal flair? Add olive branches, citrus fruits, or even sprigs of lavender. Keep florals low and organic, like they just bloomed in the garden. Think breezy, not buttoned-up.
Basically: less is more. Let the Riviera do what it does best—shine.
Travel and Accessibility for You and Your Guests
Getting to the Riviera, Smooth and Simple
Planning a destination wedding on the French Riviera is made easier by the region’s excellent international connectivity. Both Nice Côte d’Azur International Airport and Marseille Provence Airport serve as major gateways, offering numerous direct flights from various global cities.
- Nice Côte d’Azur International Airport is the primary hub for the Riviera, providing extensive international connections and situated just 30 minutes from key destinations like Cannes and Monaco.
- Marseille Provence Airport offers an alternative entry point with over 125 direct destinations across 38 countries, making it convenient for guests traveling from different regions.
- Private transfers, chauffeured services, or luxury car rentals can be arranged to transport guests comfortably from the airport to their accommodations and event venues.
- Encourage guests to arrive 1–2 days early to acclimate, explore the picturesque surroundings, and participate in pre-wedding festivities, ensuring a relaxed and enjoyable experience for all.
Tips for a Stress-Free Destination Wedding
From Planning to Party!
Like any destination wedding, it takes a little extra planning to keep things smooth and stress-free. The good news? With a few smart steps, you’ll be able to focus on what really matters—soaking up every unforgettable moment.
Start early. Give yourself at least 12 months if you can (18 months being ideal). It’ll help you lock in your dream venue, your favorite vendors, and ideal travel dates—especially if you’re planning a wedding between May and September, when things book fast.
Plan a site visit (or virtual walk-through). If you can, visit your venue or set up a virtual walk-through with your planner, florist, and caterer. Seeing the space—even through a screen—can help you feel confident about the flow and logistics.
Have a backup weather plan. Even in the South of France, the occasional rainstorm can show up. If your ceremony or dinner is outdoors, make sure there’s a solid Plan B in place—just in case.
Check the calendar. Major local events (like the Cannes Film Festival or Monaco Grand Prix) can seriously affect hotel prices and availability. Double-check the local calendar so you’re not caught off guard when it’s time to book.
In short? Plan ahead, trust your vendors, and don’t forget to leave a little room for the unexpected—it’s often where the best memories are made.
What to Do on the French Riviera During Your Wedding Week
Turn Your Celebration Into a Vacation
One of the best parts of getting married on the French Riviera? It’s not just a wedding—it’s a full experience. This region is packed with charm, beauty, and unforgettable moments that go way beyond the big day itself.
Start your wedding week with a welcome dinner overlooking the sea in a hilltop village like Èze or Saint-Paul-de-Vence—both perfect for soaking in those Riviera views. For a truly elevated experience, consider La Chèvre d’Or in Èze, where fine dining and spectacular vistas meet in a storybook setting.
Plan a relaxed beach day in Antibes, or take your guests for a boat trip along the coast, with a stop for swimming in the turquoise waters off Île Sainte-Marguerite or Cap d’Antibes. For a stylish seaside lunch, Plage Keller in Cap d’Antibes offers stunning water views and refined Mediterranean cuisine.
Foodies will love exploring local markets—Cours Saleya in Nice, Marché Forville in Cannes, or Marché Provençal in Antibes—where stalls overflow with Provençal produce, fresh flowers, and artisanal goods. For a more relaxed, picturesque experience, Villefranche-sur-Mer’s small seaside market is perfect.
Wine lovers might opt for a private tasting in the hills above Nice or a visit to the Bellet wine region. And if you’re looking to add a touch of glamour, think cocktails at Hôtel Barrière Le Majestic in Cannes or a group stroll through Monaco’s old town followed by dinner at Blue Bay, a Michelin-starred restaurant in Monte Carlo.
To unwind before the big day, treat yourself to a spa afternoon at Thermes Marins Monte-Carlo, a luxurious space overlooking the sea, or the serene Spa Eden-Roc in Cap d’Antibes.
The beauty of the Riviera is that it gives you options. Whether your crowd wants to explore, relax, or indulge—there’s something for everyone. And all those little moments in between? They become part of the magic you’ll remember forever.
Because the French Riviera was Made for Weddings like Yours
There’s something about the French Riviera—it’s not just stunning, it’s cinematic. This is where A-listers say “I do,” where timeless elegance meets easy-going charm, and where every photo looks like it could land on the cover of a magazine. But here’s the best part: it’s not just for celebrities.
If you’re planning from abroad, the Riviera gives you the best of both worlds—show-stopping venues, incredible local vendors, and easy access through major airports like Nice and Marseille. You can arrive stress-free, ready to step into the wedding weekend of a lifetime.
From sunset vows by the sea to candlelit dinners in a château, or a full weekend of wine, music, and celebration—the French Riviera makes it all possible. It’s not just about the glamour; it’s about crafting a story you’ll always carry with you, and one your guests will talk about for years to come.
