For the past few centuries, the French Riviera has dazzled with glitz, glamor and indulgence. From pristine golden beaches and picturesque towns to quaint fishing villages, the “Côte d’Azur” continues to unquestionably captivate with its sun-drenched natural beauty and lavish elegance. Furthermore, the area is noted for hosting high-profile events like the Cannes Film Festival and the Monaco Grand Prix. For outdoor enthusiasts, the diverse geography makes it undoubtedly a treasure trove. Humming with activity, the surrounding hills and mountains are suited best for hiking and cycling. If you are drawn to the sea, try a whole host of water sports including snorkeling, scuba diving and sailing. To take a broader approach, take a boat tour along the coast to explore hidden coves, islands and iconic sites.
As you may already know, arts and culture will therefore play an important role with museums, galleries and exhibitions. Shopping in the French Riviera can be a breeze, especially since the thereabouts are a style hub. Basically, having been filled with French and Italian designers. No worries, because you can find easy-to-access shopping districts, to specifically find authentic gifts, new outfits and handmade accessories. When hunger arises, encounter a rich culinary scene with the freshest of seafood, traditional Provençal dishes and the undeniably legendary, Mediterranean cuisine.
And as darkness subsequently falls, the nights are undeniably magical with rooftop bars, nightclubs, casinos and live entertainment. Offering a laid-back atmosphere and breathtaking vistas, these charming coastal villages and towns present a surprisingly vast range of ambiances and experiences. Moreover, they are dotted with the likes of hilltop hideaways, countryside châteaus and seaside sanctuaries.
Our Hand-Picked Guide to the French Riviera
Adding to your itinerary in the French Riviera, come check out the following towns and cities that help define this miraculous area. We also rank from the most popular spots to the latter, which are basically scarcely visited. Nevertheless, keep scrolling to find out more about these fascinating destinations!
It’s Côte d’Azur (French Riviera) for Starters!
1. Nice
The cultural capital of the French Riviera, Nice shines against a stunning backdrop of deep-blue waters. With a mix of old-world opulence and vibrant street life, no other place compares. Featuring 25 free public beaches, pebbles dominate the landscape, while sandy shorelines are surprisingly the minority. Meanwhile, the Mediterranean Sea beckons with everything from parasailing and paddleboarding to water-skiing and wakeboarding. Without doubt, discover amazing spots for snorkeling and scuba diving. For activity-seekers on land, try tennis, horseback riding, cycling and golf.
For attractions, visit the historic Old Town, stop by Marc Chagall National Museum or stroll along Promenade des Anglais. Held annually, the legendary Monaco Grand Prix motor racing event happens here as well. Whether you prefer boutique chic, seaside stays or grand hotels, numerous eclectic accommodations await. Lastly, combinations of French and Italian culinary traditions come together, creating dishes like Salade Niçoise and Socca (basically, street food.)
2. Cannes
Exuding an overall glamorous atmosphere – signature glamor, luxury and indulgence intertwine in Cannes. Moreover, it’s a conglomerate of high-end shopping, scenic seasides, unmissable monuments, Art Deco facades and picturesque districts. Moreover, each of the six districts reveal different traits of personality and charm. First and foremost, Canes is well-known for its annual International Film Festival, lined with popular celebrities, paparazzi and onlookers. Fringing the coastline, the ultra-pristine beaches are sandy, but yet rocky. Meanwhile, tackle some water sports with kitesurfing, windsurfing, paddleboarding and water-skiing. Sweetening the pot, the snorkeling and diving experiences, with an underwater eco-museum being the forefront.
Topping it off, a boat tour to nearby Lérins Islands, a group of four Mediterranean islands providing an idyllic setting. Whether you prefer bed and breakfasts, guest houses or five-star hotels, top-of-the-range accommodations await. Incorporating healthy, flavorsome and colorful concepts, get a taste of authentic cuisine with many decadent dishes.
3. Monaco
In a place where luxury knows no bounds, Monaco is a symphony of opulence and splendor. Not surprisingly, it’s a magnet for high-rollers and is the world’s second-smallest country. Divided between five regions, the star is world-renowned Monte Carlo (AKA Rock of Monaco,) located on a rocky piece of land. Thereupon, be immersed by gold and marble atriums, sculptures, small boutiques, ritzy restaurants and glistering casinos. While there, you’ll instantly fall for Larvotto Beach, where majestic palms line a white-sand beachfront. Hit the waves with kitesurfing, windsurfing, jet-skiing, snorkelling and scuba diving. Held annually, the internationally-acclaimed Monaco Grand Prix is one of the French Riviera’s most popular attractions.
Shopping is an experience in itself, with everything from casual to exorbitant clothing produced by leading fashion houses. Seeking accommodations? Monte Carlo is the hub of everything extravagant. Finally, a rich culinary scene awaits, spotlighting fresh seafood, local specialties and Mediterranean cuisine.
4. Antibes
Perched on a rocky coast filled with pristine beaches and dramatic cliff sides, Antibes is a magical destination. Of all the French Riviera seaside towns, it features the most iconic skyline. Additionally, it hosts a flourishing super yacht port, exuding an old-town vibe with cobbled streets, markets and cafés. Surprisingly, it’s home to Spanish painter Pablo Picasso, who affectionately contributed a towering museum. With crystal-clear diving and snorkelling conditions, head out to sea on a boat trip. Back on dry land, explore the Cap d’Antibes peninsula on bike or foot, leading to some stunning, secluded beaches. Escape to the labyrinth of Old Town, filled with small restaurants, bars and boutiques or hit the Provençal market, known for fresh produce.
From simple bed and breakfasts to chic coastal hotels, accommodations are fit for any taste and budget. Finally, amplify your appetite with traditional dishes consisting of healthy, flavorsome and colorful cuisine.
5. Saint-Tropez
Perfectly fit into the magical ambiance of the French Riviera, St. Tropez is where splendor and class meet. A haven for the wealthy, the coastal town is acclaimed for its jet-set crowds, celebrity sightings and electrifying nightlife. Where the golden sand meets the sea, picturesque beaches attract the rich and famous, including the A-lister, Pampelonne Beach. If you’re wanting a dose of culture, the Annonciade Museum showcases an impressive collection of modern art. With over 40 exceptional spots to explore, scuba diving will satiate your thirst for adventure. An amusement park, water park, adventure park, butterfly museum and Museum of Maritime History are all vying for your attention.
From those interested in shopping, come upon numerous markets and bazaars. Encounter a whole host of accommodations to suit every taste and budget. With a focus on seafood, savor every moment with local ingredients, made of cheese, olive oil and organic meats.
6. Menton
Menton seamlessly stirs the charm of a historic town with the incredible allure of the French Riviera. Get a taste of paradise with a sandy and pebbled coastline, tropical flora and pastel colored buildings. This town is known for its annual lemon festival, Fête du citron. Visit Old Town where you’ll find flowery gardens just about anywhere, coupled with narrow streets and leafy plazas. Swing by the Jean Cocteau Museum, displaying his eclectic work inside a low rise building. Many of the markets will give you the opportunity to uncover souvenirs, clothing or leather goods. With scrupulously clean beaches, experience water sports like sailing, kayaking, and paddleboarding or go down under with scuba diving.
Depending on your budget, stay in an affordable downtown establishment or up the ante with a luxury hotel. Lastly, tease your taste buds with a twist on southern French specialties and Italian favorites, creating delicious dishes.
7. Èze
Perched atop an iconic oceanfront oasis, the hilltop village of Èze dazzles with authenticity, architecture and amazing vistas. Instantly taking you back to a bygone era, it features quaint stone streets, ancient façades, art galleries and exotic gardens. Moreover, it’s also home of Factory & Museum Galimard, a quaint perfume laboratory, This enclave is so small and walkable, you can easily explore the entire town in an hour or so. With a number of beaches and coves, beachgoers can take in peaceful serenity. Explore the creeks and caves by kayak or sail through the clear waters of the French Riviera. Hikers will have a field day on Nietzsche Path, a steep mountainous trail.
From holiday cottages to coastal mansions and 5-star boutique hotels, an oasis of high end possibilities awaits. Whether you’re in the mood for fresh seafood, traditional Provençal dishes or Mediterranean fare, expect a culinary journey of flavors.
8. Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat
Nicknamed the “Billionaire’s Peninsula,” Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat sits in the lap of luxury. It’s been titled the second most expensive residential location, right after Monaco. Infusing the old school glamor of the French Riviera, find yourself intrigued by monuments, museums and natural sites. Stop by town center, known best for pastel colored houses and the charmingly decorated church of Saint John the Baptist. Find little slices of sandy heaven on the beach, which are public or private. While there, choose between an array of nautical activities, including paddle boarding, kayaking and windsurfing, coupled with snorkeling and diving experiences. Keep your eyes peeled for the pedestrianized Vieille Ville or “Old Town,” featuring narrow shop-lined streets and a lively atmosphere.
Swank accommodations will enchant you, whether being a charming villa or landmark hotels. Showcasing an array of unique restaurants in town, take a bite out of grilled fish specialties and flavorsome Mediterranean cuisines.
9. Théoule-sur-Mer
Located on the sought after shores of Southeastern France, Théoule-sur-Mer is an under discovered gem. This resort village in the French Riviera offers brilliant views of the sea, coast and mountains from red rock cliffs and inlets. Meanwhile, the small marina beckons visitors to try sailing or yachting adventures. Between the numerous coves and palm-shaded sandy shorelines, sun-seeking vacationers can enjoy an au naturel experience. Water sports include water-skiing, aqua biking and snorkeling, on top of access to a diving center and marine farm. At the base of the Estérel mountain range and forest park of “Pointe de l’Aiguille, supplying excellent conditions for hiking. Undoubtedly, visit the castle of Château de la Napoule or try cycling through Corniche d’Or.
Find sanctuary in the form of vacation rentals, holiday villas and posh hotels. Focusing on Nouvelle-style cuisine, most restaurants tend to border the harbor, bending an exceptional setting with spectacular views.
10. Hyères (The Original French Riviera)
With the brilliance of turquoise waters on golden sands, get a taste of paradise in Hyères. Considered the original French Riviera, travelers come year after year to experience its sheer natural beauty. Adding to the allure, this hillside old town features centuries-old walls, remains of a medieval castle and colored narrow streets. Just offshore, Porquerolles (one of the Golden Isles) provides some stunning beaches, hiking trails and underwater shipwrecks. That being said, snorkeling and diving are favorite pastimes, along with paddle boarding and cycling. For those who appreciate fine art, Villa Noailles is an early modernist house turned contemporary art center. Meanwhile, Centr’Azur is the go-to shopping center for all the biggest names. From budget-friendly stays to boutique hotels and small scale resorts, a range of ambiances and experiences awaits.
Finally, give your palate a unique sensation with street foods and Provençal meals, typically found in little independent food shops.
French Riviera: In Summary
This guide has found multiple compelling reasons for you to visit this magnificent area. The French Riviera reflects an iconic mix of lavish experiences, effortless beauty, cultural attractions, lovely landscapes and outdoor adventures. From inspired artists, to writers and filmmakers, the entire region had a major impact for many generations.
French Riviera: Moving On
If you’re looking to soak up the sun a little more west, check out our list of Caribbean Islands!
