Dubbed ‘La Ville Tranquille’, Bandol has a long-standing reputation as a relaxed seaside haven. Popular with the likes of Thomas Mann, Aldous Huxley, and D.H. Lawrence, it has a fascinating history of creativity and an appealingly serene vibe. With accommodation options ranging from simple boutique hotels to a swish five-star beachfront landmark, there’s something here for a whole host of tastes and budgets. Even better, most of the best places to stay in Bandol are set right on the bay — perfect for lazy beach days galore!

Pick a perch in the Place de l’Europe for a coffee, amble around the nearby palm-lined marina, or tuck in to fresh seafood over a long lunch — ideally paired with a local tipple or two. Little ones will love the ZOA Parc Animalier et Botanique, or days of sun and sand at the Plage du Capelan and Plage de Renécros. Keen hikers, on the other hand, can follow the coastal Sentier du Littoral trail, or head into the Roustagnon Forest for impressive views. Pack a picnic for a day trip to pretty Ile de Bendor and return for an evening browse of the lively night market, before savouring a glass of Bandol's crisp white or rosé wines.

Deservedly popular, the best places to stay in Bandol can fill up fast — so book your trip well in advance!

The Best Places to Stay in Bandol

For Boutique Chic

• Hotel Plein Large offers ten understated, airy rooms with white linen-topped beds and quirky chandeliers. The best rooms have inviting ocean-facing balconies. A laid-back, modern beach hotel with a great restaurant specialising in fresh Mediterranean fare. Take a yoga class or hit the beach!
• Hotel Provençal has bright rooms, suites and studio-apartments just a street back from the beach. Soak up the views from the large terrace, cook up a storm in the apartment kitchen — ideal for families — and explore central Bandol on foot. Intimate and chic.

For Luxury

• Hôtel & Spa Ile Rousse promises a five-star beachfront stay, well-suited to couples or families. Expect cool, contemporary rooms with superb sea views, a deluxe spa, central swimming pool and Michelin-starred restaurant, Les Oliviers. A very indulgent choice.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR HOLIDAY COTTAGE

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

• Fly to Toulon Hyères Airport, 40 minutes from Bandol by car, train or bus.
• The Côte d'Azur is famously wonderful for a road trip! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
• Travel during the spring or summer for the warmest weather, with temperatures peaking around 27°C from June to August — although this is also the busiest time of year. May or September are ideal for quieter trips.

STILL NOT SURE?

• Explore our list of all the best places to stay in Sanary-sur-Mer.
• Alternatively, expand your search to see our pick of the best places to stay in the Côte d'Azur.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.