The South of France is a land of contrasts: languid Provençal villages where mornings mean baguette runs and pétanque games, and the glitzy Riviera with buzzing beach clubs and superyachts in Saint-Tropez and Cannes. From the wild, salt-flat landscapes of the Camargue and the rolling lavender of the Luberon to the Basque Country’s cider houses and surf-friendly Biarritz, southern France serves up wildly different moods within short drives. Cities such as Arles pair Roman ruins with contemporary art, making the region endlessly appealing.
While there are countless celebrated hotels across the coast, renting an Airbnb puts you inside local life. Whether you want a hilltop village base in Gordes, a seaside stay in Biarritz with waves at your doorstep, or a modern, design-forward flat in Marseille, private rentals let you live the region at your own pace. Below are 22 of the best Airbnbs in the South of France, chosen for their locations, character, amenities, and glowing guest feedback.
How we chose these listings: we prioritized properties with Superhost or Guest Favorite status, strong ratings and reviews, desirable amenities (private pools, terraces, sea or lavender-field views), convenient locations, distinctive decor, and editorial experience where available. This gallery has been updated with fresh information since it first published.
Our top picks:
– Best for families: 18th-century villa in Roboin
– Best for views: House in Gordes overlooking the Luberon
– Best for film buffs: Screenwriter’s 12th‑century apartment in Saint‑Paul‑de‑Vence
– Best for storied charm: 17th‑century mansion apartment in Cotignac
– Best for taste-makers: Design-focused apartment in Marseille
Design-forward apartment in Marseille
Number of guests: 6
Beds and baths: 3 bedrooms, 3 baths
Why it stands out: Contemporary interiors, private rooftop terrace, pet-friendly
This Marseille apartment feels as much like a mini gallery as a home. Expect sculptural lighting, glass-block accents, stainless fixtures, and midcentury-modern furniture that together create a sleek, inspiring atmosphere. The host supplies art books and a projector—perfect for watching French New Wave films or browsing visual inspiration between trips to the shore. A private rooftop terrace offers fresh air and views; on clear mornings you can catch sight of Notre-Dame de la Garde while using the provided dumbbells or yoga mat. The terrace also has a plancha for alfresco meals. Located in the 6th arrondissement, the flat is close to Musée Cantini, the food stalls at Les Grandes Halles du Vieux-Port, and Pointe Rouge Beach.
Dazzling villa in Cassis
Number of guests: 11
Beds and baths: 6 bedrooms, 4 baths
Why it stands out: Outdoor pool, morning pastry and newspaper delivery, boules pitch, family-friendly amenities
This luminous villa has large windows that frame sweeping 360-degree views of Cassis and surrounding hills. The house is well equipped for families—multiple bathrooms, Wi‑Fi, a pack-and-play, high chair and crib—and the pool sits on the opposite side of the grounds, ideal for lazy afternoons. Small touches elevate the stay: hosts can arrange complimentary morning viennoiserie and newspaper deliveries, and optional housekeeping services are available for an extra fee. A short 20‑minute walk brings you to the beach, harbor cafés, and restaurants. Nearby sights include the dramatic Falaises de Cassis, the calanques such as En‑Vau, the coastal cave sites, and local beaches like Plage du Liouquet.
Why rent an Airbnb in the South of France?
– Local immersion: You’ll live like a resident—shop local markets, prepare meals at home, and enjoy neighborhoods beyond tourist hotspots.
– Space and privacy: Many rentals offer private gardens, terraces, or pools that hotels can’t match, great for groups and families.
– Variety of experiences: From medieval village houses and centuries-old townhomes to modern design pads and seaside villas, there’s a home for every travel style.
Tips for booking
– Book early for summer: The French Riviera and popular Provencal villages fill up quickly in high season.
– Check amenities: If a pool, air-conditioning, or washer/dryer matters to you, confirm those features in the listing and read recent reviews.
– Ask about local services: Some hosts offer extras like bakery deliveries, housekeeping, or grocery stocking—great conveniences, especially for family stays.
Whether you’re chasing lavender-scented mornings in the Luberon, champagne sunsets on a private terrace in Marseille, or crystalline poolside afternoons near Cassis, renting a carefully chosen Airbnb lets you tailor a South of France holiday to your pace and tastes. The full collection includes a mix of historic townhomes, modern apartments, and rural villas—each selected for character, comfort, and memorable settings.
