Where to buy on the French Riviera? The 2026 international film festival (May 12–23, 2026)

14 mai 2026

Choosing where to buy a second home on the French Riviera is an essential step. Before deciding on the type of property — apartment or villa, with or without a swimming pool — as well as the budget, location remains the number one criterion. Our clients often take the time to visit several towns and villages in order to experience their atmosphere, quality of life, and surroundings.

The choice is made as much with the heart as with reason: that famous “gut feeling” plays a decisive role. Of course, budget also influences the decision. Prices per square meter vary greatly from one town to another, but also between neighbourhoods. This aspect should be considered from the very beginning of your property search.

The French Riviera offers a wide variety of lifestyles: seaside living, Provençal villages, green surroundings, or vibrant urban life. On the French Riviera, every buyer can find their ideal lifestyle.

Among the most sought-after destinations:

• Nice, the fifth-largest city in France, charms visitors with the Promenade des Anglais along the seafront, Old Nice, Place Masséna, its rich cultural heritage, and its proximity to the international airport.
• Antibes attracts buyers with its marina, historic ramparts, Cap d’Antibes, and Juan-les-Pins with its beaches and famous jazz festival.
• Cannes is world-renowned for La Croisette, the Palais des Festivals, its prestigious hotels, luxury boutiques, Le Suquet, and the Lérins Islands.
• The picturesque and charming villages of Mougins, Valbonne, and Biot, often referred to as the “Golden Triangle,” are especially appreciated for their Provençal charm and quality of life. These towns also feature magnificent golf courses.

Other highly desirable locations include Villefranche-sur-Mer, Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, Èze, Saint-Paul-de-Vence, Vence, Tourrettes-sur-Loup, Théoule-sur-Mer, Mandelieu-la-Napoule, Châteauneuf-Grasse, and Opio.

At AAA Riviera, 57% of buyers choose the region’s three major cities: Antibes, Cannes, and Nice. The areas of Mandelieu, Mougins, Valbonne, and Biot account for 23% of requests, while the remaining 20% are spread across many other towns on the French Riviera. There is truly something for every taste and every budget, from luxurious sea-view villas to charming village apartments!

The 79th Cannes International Film Festival (May 12–23, 2026)

The Cannes Film Festival is considered one of the most prestigious cinematic events in the world. Through its history, famous red carpet, iconic posters, and demanding selection process, it celebrates the creativity and excellence of international cinema every year. Much more than a simple film festival, Cannes has become a true cultural and media symbol, capable of revealing new talent while showcasing the greatest artists of the silver screen.

The History of the Festival

The Cannes Film Festival was created at the end of the 1930s with the ambition of establishing a major international event dedicated to cinema. Led by the French diplomat Philippe Erlanger and supported by Minister Jean Zay, the project took shape in 1939. After a competition between several French cities, Cannes was ultimately chosen to host the event thanks to its prestigious setting and the commitment of the local municipality.

The Red Carpet Walk

The red carpet has become a true symbol of the Cannes Film Festival. Every year, celebrities, directors, actors, and film industry figures walk the famous red carpet at the Palais des Festivals et des Congrès de Cannes, located on Boulevard de la Croisette, before the official screenings. A genuine media ritual, this event embodies the prestige, elegance, and glamour associated with the festival.

Film Selection and Awards Ceremony

At the Cannes Film Festival, films selected for competition or out of competition go through an extremely demanding process. Every year, the selection committee watches thousands of films from around the world in order to create the Official Selection. The films are then judged by an international jury chaired this year by Park Chan-wook, accompanied by Demi Moore, Ruth Negga, and Laura Wandel. The most prestigious award remains the Palme d’Or.