Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild (Photo Credit: Garrett Richardson)

Overview: When most people hear “destination wedding,” they picture a big all-inclusive resort with wristbands and buffets. And while that’s one way to do it, there are so many more elevated options that feel seamless, personal, and unforgettable.

The South of France is one of those places. Between the glamour of the Riviera and the timeless charm of Provence, it’s a destination that’s just as practical as it is beautiful. Couples love it because the wedding becomes more than a single day—it turns into an experience their guests will talk about long after they’ve returned home.

Why Choose the South of France

The French Riviera is chic, sophisticated, and full of energy. Picture exchanging vows overlooking the Mediterranean at properties like Hôtel du Cap-Eden-Roc or Four Seasons Cap-Ferrat, then slipping into a yacht for a sunset sail.

Provence is slower, softer, and timeless. Think ceremonies in vineyard courtyards, lavender fields in bloom, or long-table dinners under olive trees at châteaux that have stood for centuries.

Together, the Riviera and Provence offer a balance of sophistication and romance—so you can choose the vibe that best fits you, or even combine them for different parts of your celebration.

The Right Time of Year

Spring (April–June): Fresh blooms, mild weather, and fewer crowds.
Summer (July–August): Peak season on the Riviera with a lively, glamorous atmosphere (and higher pricing).
Fall (September–October): A sweet spot—harvest season, warm days, and excellent value.
Winter (November–March): Quieter, more intimate, and perfect for cozy château settings.

Photo Credit: Garrett Richardson

Venues That Set the Tone

Some of the most iconic venues for weddings in the South of France include:

French Riviera

Hôtel du Cap-Eden-Roc: A legendary icon on the Riviera, this seaside estate offers timeless glamour, private coves, and world-class service — the ultimate setting for an unforgettable celebration.
Four Seasons Cap-Ferrat: Perched above the Mediterranean, this resort blends French elegance with modern luxury, delivering a refined yet relaxed atmosphere that feels effortlessly elevated.
Château Saint-Martin: Set in the hills above Nice, this historic Relais & Châteaux property pairs sweeping Riviera views with serene gardens and Michelin-starred dining.
Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild: A Belle Époque masterpiece surrounded by themed gardens — perfect for romantic ceremonies and photo moments that feel straight out of a fairytale.

Provence

Bastide de Gordes: Perched on the edge of one of Provence’s most beautiful villages, this Airelles property offers sweeping valley views, exquisite design, and classic Provençal charm.
Château d’Estoublon: A grand estate surrounded by olive groves and vineyards, ideal for couples seeking privacy, authenticity, and the full Provençal countryside experience.
Château de Tourreau: A private, 18th-century château where elegance meets intimacy — perfect for multi-day celebrations and exclusive use with friends and family.
Villa Baulieu: Set on a historic wine estate near Aix-en-Provence, this property combines refined French style with the peaceful rhythm of vineyard life.

These aren’t just beautiful hotels—they’re destinations in themselves.

As a Virtuoso advisor and Four Seasons Preferred Partner, my couples and their guests receive exclusive perks like daily breakfast, upgrades when available, and VIP recognition. For a wedding that stretches over several days, those extras add up to a much more elevated and seamless experience.

Travel & Guest Experience

A big question couples ask: Will our guests actually make it there with ease?

The answer: yes—with the right planning.

Airports: Nice (for the Riviera) and Marseille (for Provence).
Train Access: High-speed trains from Paris to Provence in just over three hours.
Guest Experience: I work with couples to design not only the wedding but also the travel experience for their guests. That might mean arranging group transfers, curating hotel blocks with VIP perks, or helping guests extend their trip to Paris, Italy, or beyond. Guests don’t just attend—they immerse.

How to Plan With Ease

Work with a travel advisor: Beyond logistics, I help couples design the whole journey—from the welcome dinner to the honeymoon extension. It keeps things stress-free and ensures the experience feels intentional from start to finish.
Choose the right photographer: Your photos are what you’ll treasure long after the trip. Garrett, a renowned photographer and former client, specializes in capturing both the intimacy of the celebration and the beauty of European settings. His expertise means your photos won’t just document your wedding day—they’ll tell the story of your destination, too.
Build a trusted vendor team: A planner with strong local relationships, a photographer who knows the light, and a travel advisor who ensures seamless guest journeys—together, this team makes the celebration effortless.

Honeymoon Extensions

Already in France? Don’t stop at the wedding.

Stay local: Spend a few more days in Provence wine country or along the Riviera coast.
Add-on trips: Lake Como, the Amalfi Coast, or even the Greek Islands are all just a short flight away.

FAQs

Is it expensive to get married in the South of France?
It’s an investment, but one that pays off in exclusivity, quality of service, and once-in-a-lifetime settings.

How far in advance should we plan?
12–18 months is ideal, though flexibility and the right team can make shorter timelines work.

Can non-residents legally marry in France?
France requires 40 days of residency before a legal marriage. Most couples handle the legal side at home and plan a symbolic ceremony in France.

Final Thoughts

The South of France isn’t just about beautiful backdrops—it’s about crafting an elevated experience that feels effortless for you and unforgettable for your guests. With the right partners in place, you can create a wedding or milestone celebration that’s seamless, intentional, and entirely yours.

If you’re considering celebrating in the South of France, I’d love to help you design the journey—from the venue to the guest experience to the honeymoon. And with Garrett’s stunning visuals, you’ll have the memories captured in a way that reflects the true magic of the destination.

South of France Destination Wedding Guide: French Riviera & Provence