The French Riviera is one of the most famous and glamorous coastlines in the world. It’s also one of the most popular places in the world for a marriage proposal. But what if you’re super private, and don’t want a lot of people around when you propose to the one you love? Are you craving a super private moment, just the two of you? Then read on for 5 Great Ideas for a Private Marriage Proposal on the French Riviera on the French Riviera. As a surprise proposal and engagement photographer in Nice, France, I know the very best spots!
Most Private Location – Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild, Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat
Located in stunning Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, this villa is like a fairytale. With sumptuous furniture and surroundings, the villa itself is magnificent, but most people also come here for the gardens and grounds. Beautiful fountains adorn the grounds as well as a series of incredible gardens with views of the Mediterranean Sea.
The villa is open to tourists during the day, but in the evening you can have the whole place to yourself. Between the hours of 7:00 pm and 10:00 pm, you can enjoy a fountain show, organize a dinner, flowers and even have your own security team to ensure your moment is private. It’s the ultimate in French Riviera surprise proposals! Rates start at 12,000€ / $13,000. The price does not include a professional photographer.
If you’d rather propose during the day, without privatization, that’s possible too. Propose in one of the many gardens on the grounds, and enjoy the beauty of this beautiful place. While it’s not a private proposal, your loved one is sure to love it. Rates start at 600€ / $650 for access to the grounds and a photography permit. The price does not include a professional photographer.
Most Popular Private Location – Chateau Eza – Eze, France
This 5-star luxury boutique hotel is situated in the medieval village of Eze along the French Riviera. In addition to Eze itself being a stunning place to visit, you can reserve a private room at the Chateau Eza restaurant for your private surprise marriage proposal. Your partner will be thrilled with the proposal and the beautiful view! The rate to reserve the private room starts at 300€ / $350. This price does not include a professional photographer.
Propose at Your Own Private Villa!
As one of the 5 Great Ideas for a Private Marriage Proposal on the French Riviera on the French Riviera, there are many incredible villas that can be rented on the French Riviera. Many have stunning views of the sea, swimming pools, views of the mountains and some even have staff who’ll cater to your every need. Imagine having a whole villa to yourselves, you can also call in a florist who can spread rose petals, add candles, or whatever decor you desire.
For a listing of some of the most sought-after villas for rent on the French Riviera, check out Le Collectionist. You’ll find an unbelievable collection of villas from Cannes to Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat and beyond!
Rent a Private Yacht and Propose at Sunset
Dream of proposing at sunset, on your own private yacht? It’s totally possible on the French Riviera! Private charters leave from Nice, Cannes, Monaco and many other towns on the Riviera. Charter a yacht with your own skipper, arrange a romantic dinner, some romantic decor and have the ultimate surprise proposal! Check out Princess Charter Yachts or Rent a Boat By Hour to explore options that work for you. A professional photographer is usually not included in the rate, so check on that ahead of time.
Propose in Nice in the Morning!
If the idea of the beauty and convenience of a proposal right in Nice is appealing to you, but you’re worried about crowds, don’t worry, it’s all in the timing. Yes, Nice is teeming with tourists, particularly in the summer months, but with the right timing you can have a semi-private moment (or even a private moment). As a professional engagement photographer in Nice, I can advise you that morning proposals are key. Get up before everyone else, and you’ll have a lot of spots in Nice almost to yourselves, or at least without dozens of tourists gawking at you as you’re getting on one knee.
If you’re interested in proposing in Nice, check out Nice surprise proposals on my web site here.
I hope this short list gives you a great starting point for planning your private or semi-private surprise proposal on the French Riviera. No matter what, your moment together is going to be magic, and one that you’ll hold close to your hearts forever!
bonjour, i'm karina!
Your incredible English speaking Wedding & Couples professional photographer in France!
I'm here to help you plan & capture your precious memories & moments in Paris, Provence & the French Riviera.
