Skip to content
  • There are no suggestions because the search field is empty.

French Riviera Travel Guide

So you're planning a trip to the French Riviera? Dive into our comprehensive French Riviera travel guide covering everything you need to know about visiting this slice of paradise on France's Mediterranean Coast and the must-do experiences awaiting you in the Côte d'Azur.

Marina_Monaco
Nice Promenade chair at night
Sailboats Anchored_Villefranche-Sur-Mer_French Riviera
Picturesque Street_Villefranche-Sur-Mer_French Riviera

French Riviera Travel Guide: An Introduction

There is something irresistibly glamorous about the French Riviera. Maybe it is the cinematic coastline with its sparkling blue water, the pastel-hued towns, or the effortless blend of luxury and laid-back Mediterranean charm. For more than a century, the Côte d’Azur has captured the imagination of artists, aristocrats, movie stars, and sunseekers alike; and, once you visit, it is easy to see why.
 
Stretching along the southeastern coast of France, the French Riviera is a dreamlike destination where you can spend the morning wandering cobblestone streets in old towns and the afternoons on a beach (or on a yacht if you have rich friends). This French Riviera travel guide will take you through six of the most enchanting towns and coastal enclaves in the region: Cannes, Antibes, Nice, Villefranche-sur-Mer, Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, and Monaco. Each town has its own personality and appeal, but together, they tell the story of the French Riviera's enduring appeal. 
  • Cannes is synonymous with red carpets and film festivals, but beyond the paparazzi, it is a city that is effectively a laid-back beach town with Hollywood glamour. Think: palm tree-lined boulevards, designer boutiques, and sandy beaches.
  • Antibes offers a more relaxed, artistic vibe compared to nearby Cannes. With its historic fortifications, Provençal Market, and connection to Picasso, this town is beloved for its balance of authenticity and seaside sophistication. Plus, the Cap d’Antibes is one of the most scenic spots on the entire Riviera.
  • Nice, the unofficial capital of the Côte d’Azur, feels like a big city compared to the other towns on the Riviera. While it is the fifth-largest city in France, it never feels overwhelming. The Promenade des Anglais, with its incredible views of the Baie des Anges (Bay of Angels), sets the tone for a city that invites you to slow down and soak up la belle vie. From museums and markets to beaches and bars, Nice is as dynamic as it is picturesque.
  • Tucked into a sheltered bay between Nice and Monaco is Villefranche-sur-Mer, a town that looks like it belongs in a painting. With its terracotta rooftops, colorful waterfront, and natural harbor, it is a favorite of both sailors and artists.
  • Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat might be small, but it packs a punch. This exclusive peninsula is known for its villas, coastal gardens, and million-dollar views. The Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild is a must-visit for a peek into French Riviera opulence.
  • Finally, Monaco, the tiny principality that could easily fit inside of New York City's Central Park, is surprisingly accessible. From the Grand Prix to the Monte Carlo Casino, Monaco is where high society meets high speed. Monaco is as dazzling as you would expect, but you do not have to break the bank to visit. 
Many travelers assume that the French Riviera is prohibitively expensive; and yes, it can be. While we are not budget travelers ourselves, we are here to tell you that you do not have to be a Hollywood celebrity or have a yacht docked in Port Hercule to enjoy this incredible part of the world. With a little planning and the help of our French Riviera Travel Guide, it is absolutely possible to experience the best of the Côte d’Azur without spending a fortune! 
 
Before you head to the French Riviera, here are a few of our favorite French Riviera fun facts:
  • The term “Côte d’Azur” (Azure Coast) was coined in the late 19th century by French writer Stéphen Liégeard.
  • Monaco is the second-smallest country in the world with an area of 0.76 square miles (1.98 square kilometers). Only Vatican City is smaller!
  • The French Riviera boasts 316 days of sunshine per year! ☀️
  • The Cannes Film Festival was created in 1939 to rival the Venice Film Festival and it is now considered the most prestigious in the world.

French Riviera Travel Guide: Top Things to Do, Town Guides, & More

Intro to the French Riviera ● Top Things to Do ● Transportation ● Town-Specific Guides & Additional Info. ● Why We Love the French Riviera ● Additional Resources


The Top Things to Do in the French Riviera

As with all of our travel guides, this section always highlights the top things to do in the destination in question. However, since our French Riviera travel guide spans six different towns (Cannes, Antibes, Nice, Villefranche-sur-Mer, Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, and Monaco) we have compiled a list that covers the highlights of the region as a whole. These are the can’t-miss experiences and must-see sights that truly define a trip to the Côte d’Azur. From coastal walks and world-class museums to glamorous beaches and unforgettable viewpoints, here are the top things to do in the French Riviera.

We've highlighted all the attractions we visited and adored with the universal symbol of love, . Consider these our favorite things to do in the French Riviera, if you will! 

  • Visit the Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild (Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat): Also known as the Rothschild Villa, the Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild is an incredible home-turned-museum perched on a hilltop overlooking both the Harbor of Villefranche-sur-Mer and the Bay of Beaulieu-sur-Mer. Surrounded by nine themed gardens, including an exotic garden and an incredible rose garden, this Neo-Renaissance villa is worth visiting for the views alone! Inside, you can see how the ultra wealthy lived in the French Riviera in the early 20th century.  
  • See the Incredible Private Cars Collection of HSH Prince of Monaco (Monaco): ♡ Tucked beneath the terraces of Monaco is a surprising treasure: the personal car collection of Prince Rainier III. From sleek vintage Bugattis to Formula 1 race cars and more, this museum is a dream for car enthusiasts. It was Brian's highlight of the trip! A combo ticket is available that includes entry to the Prince's Palace as well, making it a perfect double-feature for a day in Monaco.
  • Explore the Local Markets (Antibes & Nice): Wandering through the open-air markets of Antibes and Nice is one of the best ways to enjoy the local culture. In Antibes, the Marché Provençal (Provençal Market) is filled with fragrant herbs, local cheeses, and tons of fresh produce. In Nice, the famed Cours Saleya Provençal Market (also known as the Marché Aux Fleurs Cours Saleya) is overflowing with flowers, incredible food, sweets, and more. No visit to either of these markets would be complete without tasting the local favorite, socca. And, if you happen to be in Nice on a Monday when the antiques market takes place, you are in for a real treat! Vintage treasures and antiques, ranging from housewares to accessories, furniture, and more spill out from the stalls in the Old Town (Vieux Nice). 
  • Enjoy the Views from the Colline du Château (Nice): ♡ For the best panoramic views of Nice, head up to Colline du Château (Castle Hill), a lush, breezy park that towers above the Old Town (Vieux Nice). While the original castle is long gone, the lookout point offers sweeping views of the Promenade des Anglais, Baie des Anges, and the colorful rooftops of Old Town. It is the perfect spot for a morning walk, an afternoon stroll, or even watching the sunset in the evening. 
  • Visit the Musée Picasso (Antibes): ♡ Housed in the Château Grimaldi, previously occupied by Pablo Picasso himself in 1946, this museum is a rare chance to see some of the works of Picasso in the very space where he created them. The collection includes paintings, ceramics, and drawings that reflect on Picasso's time in the Côte d’Azur, many inspired by the views of the Mediterranean Sea just outside of the castle's stone walls. 
  • Relax at a Beach Club (Cannes): Technically there are beach clubs in almost every town in the French Riviera, however, our favorite (and one of the nicest beaches by far) was in Cannes. Few things feel more quintessentially French Riviera than reclining at a chic beach club in Cannes, cocktail in hand, with the waves lapping up on the shore. Whether you opt for a luxury lounge chair at the Carlton Beach Club or a more relaxed vibe at Vilebrequin La Plage, it is the ultimate way to unwind under the sun. If beach clubs are not your vibe, do not worry! The public beach in Cannes is one of the best in the French Riviera. 
  • Catch the Sunset from the Promenade des Anglais (Nice): In the evenings, the Promenade des Anglais transforms into one of the most romantic strolls in all of Europe. Locals and visitors alike gather to walk, bike, and sit on the signature blue chairs that dot the promenade as the sun dips below the horizon and into the Mediterranean Sea. It is the kind of simple, beautiful moment that defines life (and vacations) on the French Riviera. 
  • Tour the Prince's Palace (Monaco): Perched high above the city, the Prince's Palace is both a functioning royal residence and a piece of history. Touring the State Apartments gives you a small peek into the Grimaldi family's lavish lifestyle, complete with opulent frescos, elaborate tapestries, and sweeping views of the harbor below. Time your visit for the daily changing of the guard at 11:55 AM for a little extra pomp and pageantry. 
  • Stroll Along the Picturesque Harbor (Villefranche-sur-Mer): With its pastel-colored buildings and gently bobbing sailboats anchored offshore, the harbor in Villefranche-sur-Mer feels like it belongs in a painting. This serene seaside town is a lot less crowded than its neighbors and extremely picturesque. Villefranche-sur-Mer is ideal for a quiet lunch and a leisurely stroll along the waterfront. The Riviera charm of the town is authentic and relaxed. 
  • Marvel at the Superyachts in Port Vauban (Antibes): Port Vauban is not just a marina, it is the largest yachting harbor in Europe and a jaw-dropping display of maritime wealth. Strolling along the water's edge, you will see everything from classic sailboats to superyachts worthy of a James Bond villain. It is free, fabulous, and a glitzy Riviera spectacle. For the best views of the superyachts and Billionaires' Quay, head to the Bastion Saint-Jaume, home to the large sculpture, Le Nomade.  
  • (Window) Shop on the Boulevard de la Croisette (Cannes): The Boulevard de la Croisette is Cannes' glamorous main street where haute couture boutiques line the palm tree-lined street. Whether you are in the mood to splurge or simply admire the window displays, window-shopping (and people watching!) here feels like an event in itself, especially with the beach just across the street. The street runs approximately 1.2 miles (2 kilometers) along the coastline and is also home to the Palais des Festivals et des Congrès, where the Cannes Film Festival is held every May. 
Lamborghini Miura_Lamborghini Countach_Ferrari Testarossa_4x6_Monaco
Rothschild Villa_St-Jean-Cap-Ferrat_French Riviera
Beach Club_Cannes_France
Flower Market_Nice
Picasso Museum_Antibes_Exterior_Landscape
Sailboat_Villefranche-Sur-Mer_French Riviera
Nice From Above
Disclaimer: This webpage contains affiliate links. That means we may earn a small commission or receive compensation if you click on a link and make a purchase or take action - at no additional cost to you. These partnerships help support the content we create and maintain this website.

French Riviera Travel Guide Quick Links

Intro to the French Riviera ● Top Things to Do ● Transportation ● Town-Specific Guides & Additional Info. ● Why We Love the French Riviera ● Additional Resources


Gare DAntibes_Landscape
Gare de Nice Ville_Nice_French Riviera
Trains_Nice Ville
Gare de Cannes

Transportation in the French Riviera

Most travelers assume that you need to rent a car to explore the towns of the French Riviera, but that could not be further from the truth. In reality, the region has a fantastic and highly efficient public transportation network that makes getting around easy, scenic, and affordable. The towns along the Côte d’Azur are well connected by regional trains that run frequently between key destinations like Nice, Antibes, Cannes, Monaco, and more. You can hop on a train and be in a new town in under 30 minutes, often with incredible views of the Mediterranean Sea on the way. 

Once you arrive, you will find that most towns are very walkable, with compact historic centers and pedestrian-friendly promenades. For destinations that are a bit further off the beaten path, like Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat’s Rothschild Villa, taxis and Ubers are readily available. Just keep in mind that Uber does not operate in Monaco, so getting to Monaco by train will be your best bet! 

If you are flying into the region, Nice Côte d’Azur Airport is the only major airport in the area and serves as the main gateway to the French Riviera. Located just minutes from Nice's city center, it is well connected by bus, tram, taxi, and train, making it easy to kick off your coastal adventure without the need for a rental car. For the purposes of our French Riviera Travel Guide, we are going to focus on the trains in the French Riviera since it was primarily how we traveled from town to town. 

Trains in the French Riviera

The trains in the French Riviera are one of the easiest, most efficient, and scenic ways to travel between towns. Plus, they are surprisingly affordable. The regional train service that runs through the French Riviera is part of the TER (Transport Express Régional) network operated by SNCF, France’s national railway company. The main rail line runs right along the coast, connecting the major Riviera towns, from Menton and Monaco in the east to Cannes in the west, with frequent stops in between.

Tickets for the TER trains can be purchased from the kiosks at the train station or by using the SNCF Connect app. TER trains run regularly and do not have assigned seats. Keep in mind that these trains can get very busy during the summer months and may be standing-room only. 

Trains to Italy 

If you are planning on traveling from the French Riviera to the Italian Riviera, TER trains connect the French Riviera to the Italian town of Ventimiglia, which is located 4.3 miles (7 kilometers) from the French border. Once you reach Ventimiglia, you can switch to a Trenitalia train and continue on your journey to Sanremo, or elsewhere in the Italian Riviera. The train between Nice and Ventimiglia takes approximately 53 minutes, with trains typically running twice an hour. For the TER train to Ventimiglia, we recommend booking your train ticket using the SNCF Connect app. For the remainder of your journey in Italy, you can book your train tickets directly through Trenitalia or by using a third-party service such as Rail Europe.   

High-Speed TGV Trains to Paris & Elsewhere 

If you are heading elsewhere in France, high-speed TGV (Train à Grande Vitesse) trains connect the French Riviera with Paris, Marseille, Lyon, and other destinations across the country. TGV trains from Paris to Nice, for example, take just under six hours, and typically make stops in Marseille, Cannes, and Antibes, before ultimately stopping in Nice. Tickets for the TGV trains do sell out in advance, so if you are interested in traveling by train, make sure you book your tickets using the SNCF Connect website or app in-advance of your trip.

Nice Côte d’Azur Airport (NCE)

As we have already mentioned, the only airport in the French Riviera is Nice Côte d'Azur Airport (NCE), which as the name suggests, is located in Nice. The Nice Saint-Augustin train station (Gare Nice-Saint-Augustin) can be reached by tram from the airport, and from there, you can easily board a train to Cannes, Monaco, and elsewhere within the French Riviera. Trains are frequent, running about every 15 minutes. You can purchase train tickets once you arrive at the train station using the SNCF Connect app. Intercity buses, operated by Zou!, are also an option.

If you are staying in Nice, the airport is connected to the city center by tram (Tram 2), bus, and taxi. For additional information regarding the public transportation options from Nice Côte d'Azur Airport, please visit the Nice Airport website.


French Riviera Travel Guide Quick Links

Intro to the French Riviera ● Top Things to Do ● Transportation ● Town-Specific Guides & Additional Info. ● Why We Love the French Riviera ● Additional Resources


French Riviera Travel Guide: Town-Specific Guides & Additional Info.

While definitions can vary, the French Riviera generally stretches from the Italian border in the east to around Saint-Tropez in the west. On our trip, we explored six of its most iconic and picturesque destinations: Cannes, Antibes, Nice, Villefranche-sur-Mer, Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, and Monaco. While this French Riviera travel guide provides only a general overview of the area, you can dive into specifics about each of the six towns we visited by clicking on the photos below.

  • Vilebrequin Beach Club_Cannes

    Cannes

    (Coming Soon)

  • Antibes_Diver Statue_Distance
    Antibes Travel Guide
  • Fontaine du Soleil_Nice

    Nice

    (Coming Soon)

  • Vintage Citron_Villefranche-Sur-Mer_French Riviera

    Villefranche-sur-Mer

    (Coming Soon)

  • Rothschild Villa_Exterior_Rear_French Riviera

    Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat 

    (Coming Soon)

  • Marina_Monaco

    Monaco

    (Coming Soon)


French Riviera Travel Guide Quick Links

Intro to the French Riviera ● Top Things to Do ● Transportation ● Town-Specific Guides & Additional Info. ● Why We Love the French Riviera ● Additional Resources


Why We Love the French Riviera

We spent a full week exploring the French Riviera, using Nice as our home base, and it ended up being one of the most memorable (and incredible) trips that we have ever taken! From the moment we arrived, we were swept away by the natural beauty of the Mediterranean coast, charming towns, and laid-back elegance that defines the Côte d’Azur. Our itinerary included time in all six towns featured in our French Riviera Travel Guide (Nice, Antibes, Cannes, Villefranche-sur-Mer, Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, and Monaco), and each destination offered something truly special.

We visited during the shoulder season, at the very end of April and into early May, and the timing could not have been more perfect. We were treated to sunny skies, warm temperatures, and very manageable crowds. While it was not quite warm enough for a swim in the Mediterranean Sea (beach season really is more June through August), we still spent plenty of time by the water; lounging at beach clubs, soaking up the sun, and enjoying breezy seaside strolls. It was the kind of weather that was perfect for sightseeing and leisurely meals al fresco. 

The food in the French Riviera was another highlight for us. The cuisine can be easily described as French-Italian fusion, featuring fresh seafood, Provençal herbs, homemade pasta, and freshly baked breads. From crispy socca in Antibes to delicious grilled fish in Nice, every dish was better than the last! 

We could probably write a book talking about everything we did, saw, and loved during our spectacular week in the French Riviera, but there were a few moments that stood above the rest: exploring the local markets in Antibes and Nice, with their colorful produce and delicious aromas; taking a day trip to Monaco, including a visit to the private car collection of Prince Rainier III and a walk along the famed F1 race track; touring the stunning Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild, which felt like stepping into a royal palace; and enjoying a long, peaceful lunch along the harbor in Villefranche-sur-Mer, watching the boats bob up and down as the afternoon sun shined on the water.

We chose to base ourselves in Nice, not only because of its central location and easy access to the other towns we wanted to visit in the French Riviera, but also because it is home to the region's only airport. We stayed at the Hyatt Regency Nice Palais de la Méditerranée and getting upgraded to a room with a balcony overlooking the Promenade des Anglais made our stay even more incredible. Waking up to the sight of the water every morning and enjoying incredible sunset views every evening was a real treat. 

We can honestly say that the French Riviera is now easily our favorite place in all of France (sorry, Paris!) and we cannot wait to return. It is a destination that feels timeless yet alive, sophisticated yet unpretentious, and it truly has something for everyone. We loved every minute of our time in the French Riviera and we hope you do too! Happy travels!

Saint Jean Cap Ferrat_French Riviera
Brian_Car Collection_Monaco
Brian_Lauren_Princes Palace_Monaco
Lauren_Port Vauban_Antibes
Beach Club_Nice

French Riviera Travel Guide: Additional Resources for Visiting the Côte d'Azur

Nearby Destinations


French Riviera Travel Guide Quick Links

Intro to the French Riviera ● Top Things to Do ● Transportation ● Town-Specific Guides & Additional Info. ● Why We Love the French Riviera ● Additional Resources


Beach_Cannes_French Riviera

Our French Riviera Travel Guide & Trip Planning Resources 

Curious about the resources that shaped our trip to the French Riviera? Dive into the links below for additional insights and valuable information we used to plan our own trip.

What other honeymooners say

 

michael-jenny
michael-jenny
Michale & Jenny Bali

Laboris nisi ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat. Duis aute irure dolor in reprehenderit in voluptate velit esse cillum dolore eu fugiat nulla pariatur. Excepteur sint occaecat cupidatat non proident, sunt in culpa qui officia deserunt mollit anim id est laborum.”

dany-april
dany-april
Dany & April Cyclades

Laboris nisi ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat. Duis aute irure dolor in reprehenderit in voluptate velit esse cillum dolore eu fugiat nulla pariatur. Excepteur sint occaecat cupidatat non proident, sunt in culpa qui officia deserunt mollit anim id est laborum.”

fer-jesus
fer-jesus
Fer & Jesus Rajasthan

Laboris nisi ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat. Duis aute irure dolor in reprehenderit in voluptate velit esse cillum dolore eu fugiat nulla pariatur. Excepteur sint occaecat cupidatat non proident, sunt in culpa qui officia deserunt mollit anim id est laborum.”

Tokyo Itineraries

3 Nights in Tokyo Itinerary
5 Nights in Tokyo Itinerary