A comprehensive guide of the best places to visit and things to do in the Riviera
Embarking on a journey to the French Riviera, you'll discover a region of France teeming with beauty, luxury, and rich cultural heritage. Nestled between the Italian border and the city of Saint-Tropez, the French Riviera, also known as Côte d'Azur, hosts an array of charming and vibrant towns.
Each destination offers its unique charm, from the glamorous streets of Cannes to the colorful facades of Menton. This guide will introduce you to the best places to visit in the French Riviera, highlighting the must-see attractions in each town so that you can get a clear idea of where to go and what to do in this enchanting stretch of coastline.
Most of the cities presented in this article are connected by train, so it’s going to be extremely easy for you to travel from one city to another. To plan your trip by train, budget costs, verify itineraries, and check timetables, you can use the official website of the French National Railway Company, and…... voilà!
This article is brought to you by Esterel Cote d’Azur, the agency devoted to the promotion of the territory and meaningful experiences.
Nice, the lively heart of the French Riviera, seamlessly blends French and Italian influences with Mediterranean charm. Established by ancient Greeks, its history is evident in the Baroque architecture of Vieux Nice and the grand Belle Époque hotels along the Promenade des Anglais.
Easily accessible via Nice Côte d'Azur Airport, the city hosts popular events like the Nice Carnival, known for its vibrant parades and costumes.
A fun fact: the iconic salade niçoise originated here. While visiting, explore Cours Saleya Market for local delights and climb Castle Hill for breathtaking views of the city and the Mediterranean.
Below is a list of the things to see in Nice and if you want to enjoy the beauty of this city from a different and thrilling perspective or even get a deeper experience of Nice, check out what we have selected for you.
Top attractions in Nice:
Be sure to ask the organizers of each activity for their recommendations on the best culinary experiences in town!
Below is a selection of our best offers to spark your imagination:
Menton, the "Pearl of France," is unique among French Riviera towns for its lush gardens and Lemon Festival, thanks to a microclimate ideal for citrus growth.
Its rich history blends French and Italian influences since 1860. The city's historic center features colorful Italianate buildings and steep streets leading to the Basilica of Saint-Michel-Archange, with breathtaking Mediterranean views.
Menton can be easily reached by train from Nice (35 min) or by car on the A8 motorway.
Its cuisine is lemon-centric, with specialties like lemon tarts and liqueurs.
Don't miss the Val Rahmeh Botanical Garden, which showcases a stunning array of exotic plants.
If you are wondering what to do in Menton, below are the best sites for sightseeing you cannot miss:
Monaco, the glittering jewel of the French Riviera, is an enclave of luxury and the epitome of glamour, where the international elite converges to play and reside.
Steeped in a history of sovereignty, Monaco has been ruled by the Grimaldi family since the 13th century, with its storied past still palpable in the princely traditions and the grandeur of the Monte Carlo district.
Grace Kelly, by marrying Prince Rainier III and becoming Princess of Monaco, infused the principality with a timeless Hollywood glamour, elevating its status as a luxurious and enchanting destination on the French Riviera (she is laid to rest at St. Nicholas Cathedral).
Reaching Monaco is a journey fit for its grandiosity; it's serviced by heliports, yachts, a well-connected rail system (20 min from Nice), and the nearby Nice Côte d'Azur Airport, just a short drive away.
The Monaco Grand Prix (between May and June) transforms the city into a high-octane racetrack, while the Monte-Carlo International Circus Festival showcases the world's most prestigious acts.
Despite its famed casino culture, interestingly, Monegasque citizens are prohibited from gambling or even setting foot in the casino gaming rooms.
The grandeur of the Prince's Palace could only be matched by the stunning views from its hilltop perch. The Oceanographic Museum was a dive into marine splendor, and the opulent Casino de Monte-Carlo provided a glimpse into a world of refined excitement.
While in Monaco (or even better before visiting Monaco), we strongly suggest a stop at Tête de Chien, a 500-meter-high promontory overlooking Monaco. It’s a 25-minute drive from Monaco but it’s worth the pain.
Top attractions in Monaco:
Antibes stands as an enchanting jewel of the French Riviera; renowned for its ancient defensive walls that majestically tower over the azure waters, it affords spectacular Mediterranean vistas and a window into its storied nautical heritage.
Founded by the Greeks, Antibes has a history of seafaring and fortifications, epitomized by the 16th-century Fort Carré. It's easy to reach by train from Nice and Cannes, or via the A8 motorway.
The city hosts Jazz à Juan, one of Europe's oldest jazz festivals. A fascinating fact is its connection to Picasso, whose works are displayed at the Picasso Museum in the Grimaldi Castle. Antibes' cuisine is a Mediterranean delight, with a focus on fresh seafood and Provençal flavors.
Visit the Old Town's bustling Marché Provençal and explore the narrow streets dotted with cafés. Don't miss the expansive Port Vauban, one of Europe's largest private yacht harbors, and the scenic Cap d'Antibes peninsula, ideal for walking and secluded beach spots (take an exploratory trip by boat first).
There are plenty of interesting things to do in Antibes. Below is a list of the top attractions and our selection of experiences to live Antibes to the utmost.
While in Antibes, don’t miss the opportunity to visit the beautiful village of Grasse (the perfume capital of France!!!) which can be reached by train in 40 minutes from Antibes.
Places to visit in the center:
Check out our full offer for Antibes and Grasse:
Specials offers
Cannes, the glamour capital of the French Riviera, is best known for the Cannes Film Festival (in May), a star-studded event that draws celebrities and filmmakers from around the globe.
Once a modest fishing village, it transformed in the 19th century into a fashionable resort for Europe's elite. Cannes is easily accessible by train from Nice (35 min) and other Riviera towns and by car via the A8 motorway.
In addition to the film festival, Cannes hosts events like the Cannes Lions Festival of Creativity. A quirky fact: the nearby Île Sainte-Marguerite was where the infamous "Man in the Iron Mask" was imprisoned. Local cuisine features Mediterranean flavors, with traditional dishes like bouillabaisse and socca.
Don't miss a stroll along the Boulevard de la Croisette, with its luxury hotels and boutiques, or a visit to Le Suquet, the charming old quarter. For a taste of local life, explore the bustling Forville Market, and take a boat trip to the tranquil Lérins Islands off the coasts of Cannes.
While in Cannes, don’t miss the opportunity to visit Mougins (a 15-minute drive from Cannes), a picturesque hilltop village of Roman origins with interesting restaurants.
Apart from the main sites which are perfect for sightseeing, we have selected for you a series of experiences to make your stay in Cannes even more memorable. Without further ado……
What to see in Cannes:
To live Cannes and its surroundings from the unique perspective that only exciting experiences can offer, check out full catalog of our offers, or simply give us a call:
Check out our suggestions below :
Saint-Raphaël, a scenic coastal town on the French Riviera, stands out for its breathtaking red-rock landscapes in the nearby Massif de l'Estérel, contrasting with the deep blue of the Mediterranean.
Originally a Roman settlement, the town has evolved into a popular seaside resort. It's accessible by train from major cities like Nice (55 min) and Cannes (30 min) and by car via the A8 motorway.
Saint-Raphaël hosts various festivals, including a summer jazz festival (in July) and a maritime celebration in honor of Saint Peter (usually the first Sunday of August), the patron saint of fishermen. A curious fact: Napoleon Bonaparte landed here upon returning from Elba in 1815. Traditional dishes from the region include bouillabaisse and soupe de poisson.
Visit the neo-Byzantine Basilica of Notre-Dame de la Victoire, stroll through the vibrant Vieux Port, and hike the trails of the Massif de l'Estérel for stunning views (30 min drive).
Don't miss the local markets in the town center for fresh produce and Provençal specialties.
Saint-Raphaël is also an ideal launchpad for venturing into the captivating and unspoiled gems of the French Riviera, offering a break from the bustling tourist crowds.
Dramont (one of St.Raphael’s districts) has a lot to offer, from the almost mystical Ils d’Or (Golden Island) to the Dramont Natural Reserve facing the island and offering a spectacular view over Agay Bay and its beaches.
There's a lot to explore in Saint Raphael and its districts. Here's a list of the top sightseeing spots:
Below are some of our selected experiences to let you envision what this unforgettable stretch of the French Riviera has to offer. Check out our full offer or simply give us a call:
Fréjus, a French Riviera city, is unique for its blend of Roman history and Mediterranean beaches, providing a glimpse into ancient times alongside seaside relaxation.
Founded by the Romans in 49 BCE, Fréjus retains historical landmarks like the Roman amphitheater and aqueduct.
The city is accessible by train from major Riviera towns and by car via the A8 motorway but if you are in Saint Raphael already, it would take a 15-minute walk from the Plage du Veillat (the two cities are practically attached).
Fréjus celebrates its Roman heritage with festivals like the Aurelian Nights (Les Nuits Auréliennes in July), featuring reenactments and events. One more opportunity to delve into the cultural roots of Fréjus is offered by Les Bravades, a local traditional festival occurring the third weekend after Easter.
An intriguing fact: Napoleon launched his 1799 return to power from Fréjus. The local cuisine offers Provençal specialties, including ratatouille and bouillabaisse.
Explore the Roman amphitheater and aqueduct, visit the Cathedral of Saint-Léonce with its lovely cloisters, and wander through the Old Town's charming streets.
The coastal area features sandy beaches and a lively harbor, ideal for enjoying the sun and fresh seafood.
Frejus is a fascinating city with a great deal of things to do. Start your visit by checking out these top sightseeing spots:
To explore Frejus and its surroundings from the unique perspective only exciting experiences can offer, check out our suggestions below
For a relaxing and rejuvenating experience, be sure to take advantage of our exclusive offers at the renowned Thalasso Port Fréjus Spa.
All the activities on Fréjus
Saint-Tropez, the epitome of Riviera glamour, is renowned for its luxurious yachts, vibrant nightlife, and celebrity-studded beaches, offering an unmatched blend of sophistication and seaside charm. Originally a quiet fishing village, Saint-Tropez rose to fame in the 1950s with Brigitte Bardot's films, transforming it into a playground for the rich and famous.
This enchanting bijoux of the French Riviera can be easily reached by Saint-Raphael via ferry or bus (check out our boat trip from Saint Raphael to Saint Tropez).
The city hosts several festivals, including Les Bravades de Saint-Tropez, a traditional event celebrating the town's patron saint with parades and musketry.
A curious fact: Saint-Tropez inspired the fictional French detective series featuring the bumbling Inspector Clouseau. Traditional dishes include bouillabaisse and tarte tropézienne, a delightful cream-filled pastry.
Must-see spots in Saint-Tropez include the Citadel, offering panoramic views of the city and sea, and the Place des Lices, a lively square with a bustling market.
If you are wondering what are the best places to visit once in Saint-Tropez, below is a comprehensive list of the top tourist attractions:
Experience and enjoy St.Tropez to the full. Below is a selection of our recommended experiences to get you inspired. For more information check out our catalog or give us a call:
The best experiences in Saint Tropez :
