With a bit of thoughtful planning, you can take in the sights, smells, and flavors of the South of France with a fancy spot to come home to each night, thanks to these epic and affordable Airbnbs. Each listing here is within walking distance to popular attractions and is less than a luxury stay at a hotel, leaving you time to explore and some cash to spend on food (the real reason you’re there). Here are the 13 dreamiest Airbnb South of France rentals for a fantastic stay in the region.
Taking a trip to France? Check out Matador’s accommodation guides to the best places to stay:
We hope you love the Airbnb South of France properties we recommend! Just so you know, Matador may collect a small commission from the links on this page if you decide to book a stay. Listed prices are accurate as of the time of publication.
12th-century Mas near Montpellier
Admit it — you’ve always wanted to stay in a castle. This is the perfect opportunity, in the hills outside Montpellier. A “mas” is a French farmhouse, and this one comes complete with a pool, luxe amenities including an expansive yard, a chef’s kitchen, and enough historic charm that you’ll feel as though you’ve snuck away into a Disney movie. Without all the screaming kids, of course, though with five bedrooms and space for 12 guests, there’s plenty of room to bring yours.
Twelve guests, five bedrooms
Price: $497 per night
Huge villa with panoramic views of Villefranche-Sur-Mer
This huge, five-bedroom villa looks out over Villefranche-Sur-Mer and Cap Ferrat. Although it’s outside of the city, the small historical seaside village of Villefranche-Sur-Mer is surrounded by stunning Provençal greenery and a short seven-minute train ride from Nice. The villa also has parking space for several cars, so if you’re driving it’s an even better rental option for exploring the region.
The outdoor space is jaw-dropping, and the recently renovated saltwater swimming pool and deck (with loungers and outdoor chairs and tables) are situated in a private garden of palms and manicured lawns. A superb option for a large group of adults or a family, there are three beautifully decorated bedrooms in the main part of the house and a separate studio with a bedroom and bathroom. There’s air conditioning for summer months, but its location close to the ocean allows for a calming sea breeze to drift through the property.
Nine guests, five bedrooms
Price: $549 per night
Two-bedroom villa set off The Corniche
The Corniche is a beautiful coastal walkway that offers stunning views of the city and the sea. You’ll find the Corniche busy with tourists and locals out for a stroll, running, and playing volleyball on the sand. This villa has been recently renovated (in 2015) and offers guests an incredible view over the coast from its sprawling terrace and garden. It is set in the Roucas Blanc residential area, so this is a perfect option for families, looking for space in a quiet and safe part of the city.
Outside there’s a small vegetable patch, an outdoor shower room (perfect for washing down snorkeling gear and wetsuits), and a lovely terrace with a table and chairs which is surrounded by greenery. Thanks to its large windows and positioning on the hillside, the interior is light and airy with white walls that keep the villa cool in the summer months.
Six guests, two bedrooms
Price: $383 per night
Private guesthouse right on the water, St. Tropez
This private guesthouse which sleeps two and is literally steps from the water is quintessentially tropézienne. The color and rustic decor of the house, the yard, and the location could not lend to a more authentic experience. St. Tropez is small, but it’s a Mediterranean destination that packs a punch. So, after you’ve walked through the neighborhood and checked out the old port, stroll back to your place and relax by the water.
Two guests, one bedroom
Price: $181 per night
Charming nautical-theme loft near Vieux Port, Marseille
Perched between the red-tiled roofs, this charming two-bedroom loft is an Airbnb Plus rental that is perfect for a small family, couple, or solo traveler. On the top floor, there is an open-planned mezzanine bedroom and there is another beautifully decorated second bedroom on the ground floor. From the soft blue pastel color pallet, use of wood paneling, and driftwood artwork, the decor has a nautical theme throughout. Outside there is a cute terrace with a seating area, succulents, and views over the houses near Vieux Port.
Four guests, two bedrooms
Price: $135 per night
Waterfront house with a private beach and swimming pool, Cannes
Cannes is the ultimate French town when it comes to having a glamorous, sunny vacation by the beach. And, La Croisette, the mile-long plaza that runs alongside the shore, might just be the best place in the world to pop the question — even if that question is “Which seaside patio cafe beckons us for dinner?” The best part about this luxurious seaside spot is that you have a private beach, free from speedo-clad tourists, along with a pool, hot tub, and an entire house to relax in. Plus, you won’t be sitting on that private beach all by yourself — the place sleeps five so you can bring your crew with you.
Five guests, two bedrooms
Price: $111 per night
Charming apartment, Saint-Paul-de-Vence
This quaint studio apartment located in the heart of Saint-Paul-de-Vence is just what you need if you’re looking for accommodation that screams French character. From there, you’ll be able to easily plan your own tour of the city centre’s historic buildings and check out the many galleries and art studios. You can also gaze out the window at the skyline as you lie in bed, winding down after a day of exploring the town. Despite being a studio, the flat sleeps four to help you split that $109 per night rate.
Three guests, one bedroom
Price: $109 per night
Studio with amazing sea view, Toulon
This one’s a studio but you won’t find a more romantic spot in all of Toulon — especially for $71 a night. The Mediterranean Sea is right across the street and you can walk to the restaurants, food markets, and cultural attractions that make up the city. After a day on the town or at the beach, make your way back to relax on the balcony overlooking the water.
Two guests, one bedroom
Price: $71 per night
Quiet and charming house in downtown Montpellier
The listings in Montpellier are compact and cheap but certainly don’t skimp on city views. This guesthouse sleeps four right in the heart of the city, close to the tram station (which will take you to the beach), the city’s markets, and museums (only a 10-minute walk away). The rental has a garden and pool on-site and is built and designed in a manner that encapsulates the city’s historic charm.
Three guests, one bedroom
Price: $54 per night
Sea-view apartment on the Cote d’Azur
Indulge in Provence rosé and a spot of people-watching from the balcony of this five-star Airbnb in Nice. Located between Colline du Château and the Promenade des Anglais, most attractions are within walking distance. The decor has a touch of boutique hotel about it as well as a homely warmth only found in a vacation let. Ask the hosts anything; they’re generous with restaurant recommendations and tips.
Two guests, one bedroom
Price: $401 per night
Luxury pool villa in a quiet part of St. Tropez
This recently renovated villa in the South of France is a new listing from an Airbnb Superhost. Les Salins is a peaceful residential area just minutes by car from the glitzy harbor. The closest beach is a five-minute meander through lush Mediterranean shrubland. Perfect for families and friendship groups, the house has a heated pool with a bar plus multiple sun terraces.
Eight guests, five bedrooms
Price: $676 per night
Lakeside nature lodge with spa facilities
If there’s ever a French sequel to The Holiday, this place is where it should be filmed. This Guest Favorite Airbnb is built on the banks of a lake in the rural commune of Castelnau-de-Mandailles. Swimming is encouraged and the host also provides complimentary canoes. Continue the natural immersion in the wood-fired hot tub and sauna – these more than make up for the lack of televisions and Wi-Fi.
Four guests, two bedrooms
Price: $458 per night
Countryside vacation gîte in the South of France
This charming Airbnb on the grounds of a French castle will bring out the romantic side in all travelers. It’s one of three self-catered cottages each with a kitchen and bathroom that may be rented individually or booked en masse. In the case of the former, the pool is shared. Reserving the trio means you get it all to yourself. Avignon is the closest city while Marseille, Nîmes, and Montpellier are around an hour by car.
Two guests, one bedroom
Price: $355 per night
Architect’s Airbnb in central Montpellier
This family-friendly vacation rental in the South of France has a secret garden with a pool where the kids can run amok as supper cooks (or you take a much-needed siesta). There’s also a foosball table and an office. The Antigone neighborhood can’t be faulted – it’s awash with parks, museums, restaurants, and Montpellier’s Olympic pool in case your private piscina doesn’t suffice. A car isn’t needed but there is parking if required.
Six guests, three bedrooms
Price: $364 per night
Eco-friendly cabin with sea views
What this tiny house Airbnb lacks in floor space is made up for by the gigantic views. The studio chalet has wall-to-wall windows in the bed area where you’ll experience magical sunrises with a freshly frothed espresso. The kitchen is well-stocked and there’s a private terrace in the cliff top garden. The location on the edge of Èze is convenient for Nice, Monaco, and Menton although a car rental is unavoidable.
Two guests, one bedroom (studio)
Price: $187 per night
Millionaire’s mansion near Cannes
Get a taste of red-carpet living at this ultra-luxe Airbnb in the French Riviera with two swimming pools and views for days. Highlights include a sunken den in the main lounge and personal terraces affixed to all bedrooms. Two of these are housed in a separate annex for added privacy. The closest neighbours are a mile away and the host can arrange breakfast, a private chef, and housekeeping upon request.
Fourteen guests, seven bedrooms
Price: $1,348 per night
Bucolic bliss amid an organic French vineyard
Swap the sea for an ocean of vines at this winery Airbnb in the South of France. The estate is owned by the host’s cousin and tours are available – which might help you stock that sizable wine cellar. The house itself touts natural stone flooring, oak beams, and an open fireplace. If you’re looking to sample the pastoral lifestyle and learn about sustainable viticulture, these are your digs.
Four guests, two bedrooms
Price: $146 per night
Pyramid OMG! Airbnb in the South of France
One of the most unique (and romantic) rental properties, this pyramid cabin was conceived for nature-loving couples where the landscape and sleeping area are as one. Despite being inland, views sweep over the sea and the stargazing potential is top-notch. In place of kitchen facilities, the hosts can offer a charcuterie picnic for the evening and a breakfast service delivered to the patio.
Two guests, one bedroom
Price: $154 per night
South of France villa with private beach access
Eight guests, four bedrooms
Price: $614 per night
Central Antibes Airbnb with a private pool
Four guests, one bedroom
Price: $225 per night
Sea-view duplex on the Côte d’Azur with two terraces
Four guests, two bedrooms
Price: $433 per night
Atmospheric loft for rent in Montpellier
Two guests, one bedroom
Price: $117 per night
Vineyard vacation rental in the South of France
Four guests, two bedrooms
Price: $237 per night
Provençal French house in Saint-Paul-de-Vence
Four guests, two bedrooms
Price: $307 per night
Frida Kahlo-themed Airbnb in Narbonne, France
Four guests, one bedroom
Price: $107 per night
Luxury villa in Roquebrune-Cap-Martin
Eight guests, four bedrooms
Price: $300 per night
Beachfront Airbnb with private rooftop in southern France
Three guests, one bedroom (studio)
Price: $226 per night
Villa rental in Cannes with Mediterranean views
Six guests, three bedrooms
Price: $502 per night
Designer Marseille Airbnb with a yoga studio
Eight guests, three bedrooms
Price: $250 per night