Where to Spend Your Summer – the South of France or the Amalfi Coast?

Summer in the Mediterranean is synonymous with glamour, beauty, and the effortless sophistication that only a truly world-class destination can provide. But among the array of stunning coastlines, two regions stand head and shoulders above the rest for luxury travelers: the fabled South of France (Côte d’Azur) and Italy’s breathtaking Amalfi Coast. Each promises sun-kissed days, private beaches, Michelin-starred dining, and storied legacies—but their personalities and rhythms differ in ways that will shape your ideal getaway.

At We Know Hotels, we specialize in curating bespoke, high-end journeys tailored to your tastes. This guide dives deep into both destinations—history, culture, accommodations, cuisine, insider experiences, sample itineraries, and pro tips—so you can decide with confidence which coastline will become your perfect summer sanctuary.

 A Tale of Two Coasts: Heritage & Character 

South of France: Belle Époque Glamour and Artistic Legacy

The Côte d’Azur’s story begins in the 19th century, when European aristocrats and artists discovered its mild climate and dramatic light. Belle Époque grand hôtels—like Hôtel du Cap-Eden-Roc in Antibes—played host to royalty, writers, and painters escaping harsh winters. Over time, names such as Monet, Picasso, and Matisse made the Riviera their muse, laying the foundation for today’s vibrant art scene. The legacy continues through festivals—the Cannes Film Festival, Jazz à Juan, and Monaco’s Grand Prix—drawing A-list talent annually. Inland, Provence’s lavender fields and vineyards have long been a retreat for those seeking pastoral elegance, while medieval hilltop villages like Èze and Saint-Paul-de-Vence offer cobblestone charm.

Amalfi Coast: Maritime Republic, Romance and Timeless Villages

The Amalfi Coast’s heritage reaches back to the Middle Ages, when Amalfi was a powerful maritime republic. Its seafarers traded across the Mediterranean, forging alliances and influencing architecture from cathedral facades to villa mosaics. The Duomo di Amalfi—an imposing 11th-century structure—stands as proof of that era’s prosperity. In villages like Positano, Ravello, and Praiano, pastel houses cascade down rugged cliffs, as they have for centuries. Here, the traditions of lemon groves, ceramic craftsmanship, and hand-made paper have been diligently preserved by local artisans, giving the region a soul-stirring authenticity that contrasts with more overtly glamorous destinations.

Distinctive Vibes: Who Feels at Home Here?

Both regions bask in Mediterranean sunshine, but their atmospheres cater to different temperaments:

• South of France
  
  
  • Glamorous & Cosmopolitan: Designer boutiques in Cannes, superyachts in Saint-Tropez, and red-carpet film premieres.
    
    
  • Art & Culture: World-class museums, high-profile festivals, and an enduring creative legacy.
    
    
  • Sleek Beach Clubs: Exclusive venues where the well-heeled sip champagne on sun-drenched terraces.
    
    
  • Easy Access: Excellent airport (Nice Côte d’Azur), TGV trains, helicopters, and well-paved coastal roads.
    
    
• Amalfi Coast
  
  
  • Rustic-Chic Romance: Fisherman’s cottages transformed into boutique hotels, weathered stone churches, and lemon-scented air.
    
    
  • Intimate Villages: Quaint piazzas, family-run trattorias, and local festivals celebrating age-old traditions.
    
    
  • Cliffside Paths & Hidden Coves: The Path of the Gods hike, secluded beaches accessible only by boat.
    
    
  • Serpentine Roads & Boat Hops: Narrow coastal roads navigated by expert drivers, ferries linking seaside towns.
    
    

Choose the Riviera if you crave polished luxury and cosmopolitan buzz; pick Amalfi if you long for storybook scenery, artisan charm, and a slower pace.

 In-Depth: South of France

1 Iconic Towns & Hidden Gems

• Nice: The region’s vibrant heart, where Belle Époque architecture meets the pebbled beaches of the Promenade des Anglais. Mornings here are for strolling the Cours Saleya market, sampling socca (chickpea flatbread), and visiting the Musée Matisse.
  
  
• Cannes: Beyond the film festival glamour lies a charming old quarter, Le Suquet, with winding lanes and panoramic views. Luxury yachts crowd the Vieux Port, while Croisette Boulevard is lined with high-end boutiques.
  
  
• Antibes: A quieter counterpart to Cannes, Antibes charms with the Picasso Museum set in a medieval château, and Hôtel du Cap-Eden-Roc’s private beaches that feel like your own.
  
  
• Saint-Tropez: Once a fishing village, now the epitome of celebrity hideaway. Pamper yourself at Club 55 or explore hidden bays like Pampelonne, reachable by speedboat.
  
  
• Èze & Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat: Perched hilltop villages offering breathtaking coastlines and seclusion. The Èze Botanical Garden showcases exotic plants against a dramatic sea backdrop.
  
  

2 Luxury Stays

1. Hôtel du Cap-Eden-Roc (Antibes): Famous for its cliffside infinity pool and reserved cabanas, it combines Belle Époque décor with modern amenities.
   
   
2. Grand-Hôtel du Cap-Ferrat, A Four Seasons Hotel: A restored villa with a panoramic spa, private yacht charters, and two-Michelin-star dining at Le Cap.
   
   
3. Cheval Blanc St-Tropez: LVMH’s jewel offering a Dior spa, couture styling sessions, and an exclusive beach club on San Tropez’s sands.
   
   
4. Château Saint-Martin & Spa (Vence): A Relais & Châteaux gem nestled among olive groves, blending historic stone walls with world-class wellness.
   
   

3 Gastronomy & Wine

• Michelin Excellence: Mirazur (3 stars) in Menton, led by Chef Mauro Colagreco, reinvents Mediterranean cuisine with locally foraged sea herbs and seasonal produce.
  
  
• Beach Club Chic: Club 55 and Nikki Beach offer seafood towers, caviar service, and professional DJs.
  
  
• Provençal Flavors: Explore farmers’ markets for olives, lavender honey, and herb-infused oils. Book a private vineyard tour in Provence’s rolling hills for rosé tastings at Château d’Esclans (home of “Whispering Angel”).
  
  
• Seafood Specialties: In Antibes or Cannes, enjoy bouillabaisse (in-season) or grilled sea bass sprinkled with Provençal herbs.
  
  

4 Signature Experiences

• Lavender Balloon Ride: At dawn, float over purple fields near Valensole Plateau, descending for a champagne picnic in a château courtyard.
  
  
• Perfume Atelier in Grasse: Create a bespoke fragrance in the world’s perfume capital using jasmine, rose, and orange blossom.
  
  
• Yacht Charter to Îles de Lérins: Swim in crystalline waters, tour a fortified abbey, and sample wine from the Isle of Saint-Honorat’s Cistercian monks.
  
  
• Monaco Grand Prix VIP: Paddock access, private viewing box above the circuit, and a meet-and-greet with a racing team principal.
  
  

In-Depth: Amalfi Coast 

1 Enchanting Villages & Secluded Corners

• Positano: The Coast’s most iconic village, where pastel houses tumble toward hidden pebble beaches. Wander Via dei Mulini’s boutiques, then relax at Fornillo Beach or Le Sirenuse’s infinity pool.
  
  
• Ravello: Perched high above the sea, Ravello’s gardens at Villa Rufolo and Villa Cimbrone inspired Wagner’s operas. The Ravello Music Festival fills these venues with classical concerts each summer.
  
  
• Amalfi: Once a republic rivaling Venice, Amalfi’s Duomo and bustling Piazza del Duomo offer glimpses of its grand past. Nearby, the Valle dei Mulini showcases ancient paper mills still in operation.
  
  
• Praiano & Furore: Quieter alternatives, where Fisherman’s Harbor at Marina di Praia and the dramatic Furore Fjord provide off-the-beaten-path serenity.
  
  

2 Luxury Stays

1. Le Sirenuse (Positano): Renowned for personalized service, rooftop terrace views, and candlelit dinners at La Sponda.
   
   
2. Belmond Hotel Caruso (Ravello): Housed in an 11th-century palace, with an infinity pool suspended above the water and private concerts in frescoed halls.
   
   
3. Il San Pietro di Positano: Carved into the cliffside, offering a private beach accessible by elevator, Michelin-starred dining at Zass, and complimentary boat shuttle to Capri.
   
   
4. Villa Cimbrone (Ravello): A romantic hideaway tucked among ancient gardens, with exclusive access to the “Terrace of Infinity” and intimate suites in historic lodges.
   
   

3 Gastronomy & Wine

• Michelin and Trattoria Balance: Zass (1 star) serves modern takes on Amalfi flavors; traditional trattorias like Da Adolfo (Fjord of Furore) deliver grilled catch-of-the-day and fresh pasta.
  
  
• Lemon-Infused Delights: Tour lemon groves in Minori, then press your own limoncello. Savor lemon-flavored pastries (delizia al limone) and seafood dressed in citrus-herb sauces.
  
  
• Local Wines: Fiano di Avellino and Taurasi reds pair beautifully with coastal dishes; arrange a private tasting at a hillside vineyard near Tramonti.
  
  

4 Signature Experiences

• Blue Grotto at Dawn: Private boat entry into Capri’s sea cave before tourist boats arrive—watch sunlight illuminate the water in electric blue.
  
  
• Path of the Gods Trek: Guided morning hike with a mountaintop picnic featuring local cheeses, charcuterie, and fresh figs.
  
  
• Ceramic Workshop in Vietri sul Mare: Learn traditional techniques and paint your own Amalfi-style plate to take home.
  
  
• Ravello Festival Backstage: Meet musicians and explore historic villa gardens before an evening concert under the stars.
  

Sample 3-Day Itineraries

1 South of France Itinerary

Day 1: Côte d’Azur Grand Tour

• Morning: Arrive at Nice Côte d’Azur Airport; private helicopter transfer to Monaco. Champagne brunch on Hotel de Paris Monte-Carlo’s Terrace.
  
  
• Afternoon: Helicopter hop to Menton. Stroll the Old Town, visit Jean Cocteau’s Chapel, and dine on socca and fresh seafood at Mirazur.
  
  
• Evening: Return by yacht to Antibes. Sunset cocktails at Hôtel du Cap-Eden-Roc’s legendary pool, followed by dinner at Le Pinède beach club.
  
  

Day 2: Art, Perfume & Vineyards

• Morning: Picasso Museum (Château Grimaldi) in Antibes. Coffee and croissants in the Old Town.
  
  
• Late Morning: Perfume atelier in Grasse—craft your signature scent using jasmine and mimosa.
  
  
• Afternoon: Private car to Provence’s Lorgues vineyards for rosé tastings and a gourmet lunch.
  
  
• Evening: Return to Cannes for dinner at La Palme d’Or (2 Michelin stars) overlooking La Croisette.
  
  

Day 3: Lavish Leisure & Departure

• Morning: Lavender balloon ride over Valensole Plateau at sunrise, with champagne breakfast in the fields.
  
  
• Late Morning: Spa treatment at Four Seasons Grand-Hôtel du Cap-Ferrat’s cliffside spa.
  
  
• Afternoon: Tiket private speedboat to Èze; lunch at La Chèvre d’Or and stroll the exotic garden.
  
  
• Late Afternoon: Helicopter back to Nice for departure.
  
  

2 Amalfi Coast Itinerary

Day 1: Positano & Capri Adventure

• Morning: Arrive in Naples; private limousine to Positano. Welcome prosecco on your suite’s terrace at Le Sirenuse.
  
  
• Late Morning: Speedboat to Capri’s Blue Grotto—exclusive early access. Picnic on deck with local cheeses and limoncello spritz.
  
  
• Afternoon: Lunch at La Fontelina Beach Club, then wander Capri’s Piazzetta boutiques.
  
  
• Evening: Return to Positano; sunset aperitivo at Bar Internazionale, followed by dinner at La Sponda.
  
  

Day 2: Ravello’s Heights & Amalfi’s Depths

• Morning: Helicopter transfer to Ravello. Private guided tour of Villa Cimbrone’s Gardens of Infinity.
  
  
• Late Morning: Wine tasting at a hillside vineyard near Tramonti, sampling Fiano di Avellino.
  
  
• Afternoon: Drive down to Amalfi; lunch in the Piazza del Duomo at Eolo Restaurant. Explore Amalfi’s paper mills and cathedral.
  
  
• Evening: Dinner at Ziqù in Amalfi, featuring seafood risotto and Amalfi lemon tart.
  
  

Day 3: Hidden Corners & Farewell

• Morning: Guided hike on the Path of the Gods—stunning coastal panoramas with a gourmet picnic amid ancient olive groves.
  
  
• Late Morning: Transfer to Praiano for a cooking class at Marina di Praia, learning to make gnocchi alla Sorrentina.
  
  
• Afternoon: Swim in Furore Fjord’s crystal-clear waters, then relax poolside at Hotel Margherita.
  
  
• Evening: Farewell seafood feast at Il San Pietro’s Zass, paired with a vertical tasting of Campanian wines, before private car to Naples for your departure.
  
  

Pro Tips & Practical Logistics

When to Visit

• South of France:
  
  
  • Ideal: Late May–mid-June or September, before/after peak crowds and with pleasant temperatures (20–27 °C).
    
    
  • Peak: July–August sees the height of festival season, with higher rates and busier venues.
    
    
• Amalfi Coast:
  
  
  • Ideal: Late May–June or September. The sea is warm (23–26 °C), and villages are lively but not overcrowded.
    
    
  • Peak: July–August brings intense heat and denser crowds on ferries and roads.
    
    

Getting There & Around

• Airports:
  
  
  • Côte d’Azur: Nice (NCE); helicopter transfers available to Monaco, Cannes, and Saint-Tropez.
    
    
  • Amalfi: Naples (NAP) or Rome (FCO) plus private car or helicopter to Sorrento/Positano.
    
    
• Local Transport:
  
  
  • Côte d’Azur: Coastal trains are efficient; private car or yacht charter for flexibility.
    
    
  • Amalfi Coast: Narrow roads mean expert drivers; ferries and private boats are often the quickest way between towns.
    
    

Packing & Preparation

• Wardrobe: Light cashmere wraps, tailored linen jackets for evenings, elegant sandals or low wedges for cobblestones.
  
  
• Documents: EU plug adapters (Type C/E), international driving permit if renting a car, reservations for top restaurants booked 3–6 months in advance.
  
  
• Health & Safety: Travel insurance with medical and cancellation coverage; high-SPF sunscreen and broad-brim hats for sun protection.
  
  

Insider Advice

• Reservations: Always reserve beach clubs, fine-dining restaurants, and private experiences months ahead.
  
  
• Personalization: Inform We Know Hotels of preferences (dietary, spa, wine), so they tailor every detail.
  
  
• Local Events: Check regional calendars for festivals—Lavender Festival in Provence, Ravello Music Festival, Cannes Film Festival—if you wish to attend.

South of France vs. Amalfi Coast: Which One is For You?

Ultimately, both destinations are extraordinary. The best choice depends on what kind of summer experience you seek. Use this table to pinpoint which coastline aligns with your preferences—and scroll down for our final recommendations.

Final Thoughts – South of France vs. Amalfi Coast

Ultimately, both the South of France and the Amalfi Coast stand as pinnacles of Mediterranean luxury—yet they speak to different senses of summer perfection. Choose the Riviera for sleek cosmopolitan chic, artful elegance, and legendary beach clubs. Opt for Amalfi if your heart yearns for timeless romance, artisan traditions, and cliff-hanging views that take your breath away.

No matter your choice, We Know Hotels is here to transform your vision into an impeccable reality. From securing exclusive upgrades and behind-the-scenes access to crafting private yacht excursions and personalized culinary journeys, our team ensures every moment sparkles.

👉 Contact We Know Hotels today to begin planning your bespoke summer escape. Let us handle every detail—so you can simply savor the sunshine, the sea, and memories that will last a lifetime.