Villefranche-sur-Mer is a coastal town on the French Riviera, set between Nice and Monaco. Between the picturesque bay and the laidback lifestyle, the area is a popular destination for travellers. Its natural beauty and old-world charm are perfectly complemented by luxury amenities and high-end homes with modern comforts.
This article is a guide for high-end buyers who are interested in property in this exclusive French Riviera location.
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What Makes Villefranche-sur-Mer So Special to Luxury Property Buyers?
Villefranche-sur-Mer’s exclusivity caters to a refined lifestyle. You’ll find boutique hotels, gourmet restaurants, private beaches and luxury amenities here, plus an array of properties in the high-end market.
While it’s popular with travellers and a great place to purchase an investment property, Villefranche-sur-Mer isn’t quite as crowded as other parts of the French Riviera, even during the busy summer season.
You’ll often see cruise ships and yachts docked at the bay, which is a deep, natural harbour in the Med. The crescent-shaped beach has sandy shores and turquoise waters where you’ll be tempted to sunbathe, swim and try your hand at various water sports.
Since Villefranche-sur-Mer is so close to Nice and Monaco, you can visit either with just a short car or train ride. In Nice, visit Old Town, lounge on the beach or visit a museum. In Monaco, you can indulge in luxury shopping or take your chances at the casino.
Villefranche-sur-Mer is also close in proximity to other key destinations, like Cannes and Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat. Plus, it’s easy to get to the Nice Côte d’Azur Airport and the French rail network, making it a desirable location for international buyers who will be travelling back and forth.
What Types of Luxury Properties Are Available in Villefranche-sur-Mer?
Property types in Villefranche-sur-Mer include luxury apartments with sea views, historic mansions, contemporary estates with modern amenities, and waterfront villas. There’s a variety of architectural styles here as well, including Belle Époque villas, Provencal stone houses, and minimalist modern homes.
Pricing varies and is influenced by location, waterfront access, proximity to popular historic sites, property size, renovations, and neighbourhood exclusivity.
Luxury Apartments and Penthouses
Apartments and penthouses in Villefranche-sur-Mer are compact and lower maintenance than larger homes while still retaining the luxury and glamour you’d expect from French Riviera property. Expect balconies or terraces, high-end finishes, and shared amenities like concierge services, gyms and pools. If you purchase a penthouse, you may have your own private pool or rooftop terrace.
Hillside Estates and Mansions
Hillside estates and mansions in Villefranche-sur-Mer are often secluded and set on large plots of land, offering the utmost privacy and tranquillity. You’re still bound to have panoramic views of the sea, though, and these homes come in all different architectural styles ranging from classic to contemporary. Features you can expect include multiple bedrooms, gyms, home theatres, wine cellars, large gardens, private pools, and guest houses.
Waterfront Villas
Waterfront villas are the most exclusive properties you’ll find in Villefranche-sur-Mer. Set right on the beach, these homes offer unbeatable views and direct beach access. Features include spacious interiors, large terraces and infinity pools. Villas in the region are purposely designed to blend in with the landscape and make the most of the coastal scenery. You’ll see properties with stone walls, terracotta roofs and lush greenery.
Investment Properties
If you’re interested in buying an investment property in Villefranche-sur-Mer, you’ll do well with seasonal rentals during the summer, which is the most popular time for tourism. Look for a property that’s optimised for high-end rentals. Guests will want easy access to the beach, multiple bedrooms, private pools and luxury interiors. Villas and large apartments are ideal for families and groups of travellers.
How Much Do Luxury Properties Cost in Villefranche-sur-Mer?
In Villefranche-sur-Mer, a 2-bedroom apartment or 2-bedroom villa is approximately €10,000 per square metre, though pricing can be higher depending on the property’s exact features. On the other hand, a larger apartment with more bedrooms may cost a bit less at closer to €8,000 per square metre, depending on location and other factors that impact price.
On the high end, a multi-bedroom villa with 4 to 6 rooms can cost between €23,000 and €26,000 per square metre, while a larger villa may be lower per square metre at €16,500, based on the difference in features between the two properties.
When it comes to the most luxurious of our high-end listings in Villefranche-sur-Mer, costs are in the €32,600 to €60,000 range per square metre.
Property Pricing Near Villefranche-sur-Mer
Property prices in Villefranche-sur-Mer are slightly higher than that of top homes in nearby Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, which are around €25,000 to €43,500 per square metre.
In Cannes, which is also close by, a 9-bedroom villa can cost €40,000 per square metre, while a 5-bedroom apartment may be slightly more per square metre at €48,000.
Property in nearby Antibes costs less comparatively. For example, a 14-bedroom castle is €24,600 per square metre, and an 8-bedroom villa is €11,500 per square metre.
In Nice, which is a notably expensive area for French Riviera property, you can purchase a 5-bedroom apartment in the city for around €23,000 per square metre. Villas in Nice cost less at closer to €10,000 per square metre.
Monaco is the most expensive of all, as it’s a tiny Principality with wealthy residents and limited property available, making it all the more exclusive. A luxury apartment in Monaco can cost upwards of €140,000 per square metre.
Where Are the Best Areas To Buy in Villefranche-sur-Mer?
From the charming Old Town to quiet residential neighbourhoods, there are a lot of options when looking for the right place to buy property in Villefranche-sur-Mer.
Old Town
Old Town, called Vielle Ville, has narrow, cobbled streets and pastel buildings with balconies that brim with flowers. You’ll notice French and Italian influences here, and the area’s apartments and townhouses are close to the port.
You’ll want to explore Rue Obscure, as the covered, 13th-century street is known for its historic architecture. Also visit Chapelle Saint-Pierre, a small chapel that was decorated by Jean Cocteau. Inside, you’ll find murals that depict the life of Saint Peter, plus imagery of local fishing traditions.
Mont Boron
Mont Boron has prestigious hillside villas with panoramic views and a quiet, residential feel. You’ll be surrounded by greenery, flora and fragrant pine forest. The area is technically part of Mont Boron Park, which is popular with joggers and hikers. It’s also a lovely area to picnic.
Saint-Michel
Saint-Michel is another peaceful residential area on the hillside, with scenic views of the bay and the mountains. You’ll find a lot of traditional French Riviera architecture here, with pastel villas, stone walls, and olive trees in the gardens. Like in Mont Boron, you’ll be close to outdoor activities, particularly hiking trails.
Corne d’Or
The sought-after neighbourhood of Corne d’Or is close to the coast, and it’s a lively area of Villefranche-sur-Mer with a lot of character. You’ll find modern apartments and elegant homes and estates here. Best of all, you’ll be close to urban amenities that you can take advantage of whenever you need to.
Villefranche Bay
This is where you’ll find the waterfront villas the area is best known for, and you’ll be close to beaches and marinas. The waterfront has plenty of cafes and restaurants to try, and menus here often include fresh seafood and a mix of French and Mediterranean cuisine. Make sure to dine at sunset, when the views are their most stunning.
You’ll also be close to Citadel Saint-Elme, which was built in the 16th century as a defence for the town. Today, it’s where you’ll find the town hall, plus museums and a sculpture garden.
Final Thoughts
With its natural beauty, cultural opportunities and welcomingly slower pace of life on the French Riviera, Villefranche-sur-Mer is sought-after by luxury property buyers who dream of a life in France. Plus, with high-energy cities just a drive away, you can truly have the best of both worlds.
For foreign buyers who are looking to purchase a luxury property in France, it’s best to familiarise yourself with the property buying process, as it will differ from what you’re used to in your home country. From working with a notaire to waiting through the mandatory 10-day cooling-off period and being prepared to pay any tax that may be involved, you’ll want to be clear about the process early on.
We have a complete guide to buying property in France, which will be a helpful resource for you as you look for your dream property. Our property agents will also be with you every step of the way to make the process go as smoothly as possible.
Whether you want to live in the middle of a bustling city or in a more tranquil location, there is a French Riviera property to fit your wants and needs. Search our website and browse the selection of luxury homes that are available to buy. Alternatively, you can speak directly to one of our expert property consultants by calling +33 (0)970 44 66 43.
