Mediterranean coastline and blue sea on the French Riviera in summer sunshine

French Riviera & Var: among the most enjoyable places in France to live in the sun

Two recent studies rank towns across the French Riviera and the Var among the best places to live in France.

Where to buy on the French RivieraLifestyleNews
10 July 2026 · 2 min read
Sonia Mata
Sonia MataSales Assistant, Riviera Keys

With more than 300 days of sunshine a year, an exceptional coastline and a way of life admired around the world, the French Riviera and the Var continue to win over visitors and future residents alike in search of a better quality of life.

Two recent studies on the appeal of French towns and cities confirm what many Europeans already know: several communes in our region rank among the most pleasant places to live in France.

A privileged setting between sea, nature and culture

For anyone dreaming of daily life beside the Mediterranean, the French Riviera offers a rare balance of climate, modern infrastructure, cultural richness and outdoor activities.

Nice stands out in particular, ranking among the best large French cities for quality of life. Its mild year-round climate, the famous Promenade des Anglais, its cultural offering, its sports facilities and its economic dynamism make it a first-choice destination for international residents.

Just a few kilometres away, Antibes charms visitors with its authentic Mediterranean atmosphere, its renowned marina and its unspoilt beaches. Cannes, known worldwide for its international film festival, combines elegance, excellent services and an exceptional living environment.

Cagnes-sur-Mer also ranks among the highest-rated towns, thanks to its prime location between Nice and Antibes, its lively seafront and its family-friendly atmosphere.

The Var: a more peaceful alternative in the heart of the Mediterranean

In the Var, Toulon and Hyères are attracting more and more international buyers looking for a more authentic and often more affordable setting.

Toulon enjoys strong economic momentum, a beautiful opening onto the sea and excellent transport connections. Hyères, renowned for its natural beaches, its idyllic islands and its unspoilt surroundings, is regularly considered one of the most pleasant towns in the department.

Further east, Fréjus and Saint-Raphaël remain safe bets along the Var coastline. Much appreciated for their natural setting, their marinas, their golf courses and their many sporting activities, they offer a Mediterranean lifestyle that is particularly sought after.

A recognised quality of life

These rankings are based on several hundred indicators, including safety, the environment, infrastructure, transport, leisure, culture, climate and public services.

Beyond the figures, they confirm what draws so many residents from Northern Europe here every year: the French Riviera and the Var offer a unique combination of sun, sea, nature and quality of life, making the region one of the most attractive places in France to live or invest.

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