French Riviera – Bite into Sunshine, Sip the Adventure
From Beaches to Alps: Discover the Côte d’Azur in Every Season
Whether you come to Provence for a weekend, five days, or even ten, it will never feel like enough. The region is incredibly diverse, with countless villages, landscapes, and experiences to be discovered. The Côte d’Azur (French Riviera) is my favorite place in France because here I feel truly alive. The warm Mediterranean climate, the incredible cuisine, the welcoming people, and the vibrant atmosphere wrap you in a sense of joy. The Riviera is more than a destination — it’s a feeling.
Summer is the Riviera’s most famous season, filled with sunshine, lively beaches, and a glamorous atmosphere. Expect warm Mediterranean waters perfect for swimming, bustling seaside cafés, and long days of sunshine. It’s the best time for beach lovers, a day trips to The Lérins Islands, and those chasing the Riviera’s vibrant energy.
Winter brings a quieter, more relaxed Riviera — still mild and sunny compared to much of Europe. With fewer crowds, it’s the perfect season to explore the museums, markets, and historic Old Towns .Winter is also festive, with Christmas markets in Nice and Monaco, and in February, the famous Menton Lemon Festival and Nice Carnival brighten the season with color and joy. For those who love variety, you can sunbathe by the sea in the morning and reach the ski resorts of the Southern Alps in just a couple of hours.
Nice Côte d’Azur Airport – Your Gateway to the Riviera
Located right on the Mediterranean coast, Nice Airport is the second-busiest in France after Paris. Its two modern terminals offer international connections from all over Europe, the Middle East, and even North America.
Why it’s convenient: Only 7 km (15 minutes) from Nice city center. I recommend to take a tram (Line 2), it runs every 8 minutes, travel time about 25 minutes, ticket cost 1,70 EUR
NICE
Nice has long been a favorite of artists, writers, and celebrities. The Marc Chagall National Museum and the Matisse Museum celebrate the city’s artistic heritage. Meanwhile, chic boutiques, buzzing nightlife, and Mediterranean terraces make it a city that truly never sleeps in summer. What makes Nice unforgettable is its energy. It’s elegant yet casual, historic yet modern, busy yet relaxed. Whether you’re wandering through Old Town’s narrow lanes, enjoying a seafood lunch by the port, or simply basking in the Riviera sun along the Promenade, Nice makes you feel alive and welcomed.
The Promenade Des Anglais. Stretching for 7 kilometers along the Mediterranean coast, the Promenade is the beating heart of Nice. Palm trees line the walkway as locals jog, cycle, and rollerblade while visitors soak up postcard views of the Baie des Anges (Bay of Angels).
For the best views of Nice, climb the stairs up to Colline du Château (Castle Hill). Although the castle itself no longer stands, the hilltop park offers spectacular panoramic views of the red rooftops, turquoise sea, and sweeping coastline — ideal for a photo stop. You’ll also find waterfalls, gardens, and shady spots perfect for a break.
Step into Vieille Ville (Old Nice), a maze of narrow streets, colorful buildings, and bustling squares. The area feels distinctly Italian with its ochre facades and laundry strung between windows. Here, you’ll find boutiques, tiny bakeries, and gelato shops — all buzzing with life day and night.
One of the city’s highlights is the Cours Saleya Flower Market. Bursting with fresh flowers, produce, spices, and local delicacies, it’s a feast for the senses. Stop by one of the cafés for a plate of socca, a traditional chickpea pancake — crispy on the outside, soft inside, and best enjoyed with a glass of rosé.
Just a short stroll away is Place Masséna, Nice’s central square. Surrounded by elegant red buildings and fountains, it’s a busy hub where the city’s modern side meets its historic charm.
Food in Nice reflects its Mediterranean spirit — light, fresh, and full of flavor.
Breakfast & Snacks – Grab a pastry or sandwich from one of the city’s many patisseries. For a sit-down meal, indulge in a seafood platter at Café de Turin, famous for its oysters, or try Le Bistrot du Port for fresh, seasonal seafood with a Riviera view. Local Specialties – Don’t miss Niçoise salad, pissaladière (onion tart), and of course, socca.
The Promenade Des Anglais. Stretching for 7 kilometers along the Mediterranean coast, the Promenade is the beating heart of Nice. Palm trees line the walkway as locals jog, cycle, and rollerblade while visitors soak up postcard views of the Baie des Anges (Bay of Angels).
For the best views of Nice, climb the stairs up to Colline du Château (Castle Hill). Although the castle itself no longer stands, the hilltop park offers spectacular panoramic views of the red rooftops, turquoise sea, and sweeping coastline — ideal for a photo stop. You’ll also find waterfalls, gardens, and shady spots perfect for a break.
Step into Vieille Ville (Old Nice), a maze of narrow streets, colorful buildings, and bustling squares. The area feels distinctly Italian with its ochre facades and laundry strung between windows. Here, you’ll find boutiques, tiny bakeries, and gelato shops — all buzzing with life day and night.
One of the city’s highlights is the Cours Saleya Flower Market. Bursting with fresh flowers, produce, spices, and local delicacies, it’s a feast for the senses. Stop by one of the cafés for a plate of socca, a traditional chickpea pancake — crispy on the outside, soft inside, and best enjoyed with a glass of rosé.
Just a short stroll away is Place Masséna, Nice’s central square. Surrounded by elegant red buildings and fountains, it’s a busy hub where the city’s modern side meets its historic charm.
Food in Nice reflects its Mediterranean spirit — light, fresh, and full of flavor.
Breakfast & Snacks – Grab a pastry or sandwich from one of the city’s many patisseries. For a sit-down meal, indulge in a seafood platter at Café de Turin, famous for its oysters, or try Le Bistrot du Port for fresh, seasonal seafood with a Riviera view. Local Specialties – Don’t miss Niçoise salad, pissaladière (onion tart), and of course, socca.
Where to sleep
Budget Hotels in Nice
Hotel Trocadéro – Situated near the train station, Hotel Trocadéro provides budget accommodation with simple yet comfortable rooms.
Hotel Ibis Styles Nice Airport Arenas – Budget-friendly and walking distance from Terminal 1
Mid-Range Hotels in Nice
Radisson Blu Hotel Nice – Stylish hotel with sea views, about 10 minutes from the airport
Novotel Nice Arenas Aeroport – Modern comfort, perfect for business travelers.
Luxury Hotels in Nice.
Hyatt Regency Nice Palais de la Méditerranée – A luxurious hotel with a prime location on the Promenade des Anglais.
Le Negresco (Nice Center) – A legendary 5-star Belle Époque hotel, only 15 minutes from the airport by car.
Menton
Nestled on the border with Italy, Menton is often called “La Perle de la France” (The Pearl of France). Distance from Nice to Menton is just 30km, east of Nice about 35-40 minutes by car or 35-45 minutes by train, making it easy day trip. With its pastel-colored houses, lush gardens, and sun-drenched seafront, this charming town offers a gentler, more authentic Riviera experience compared to its glamorous neighbors. The town’s unique microclimate has also nurtured spectacular botanical gardens like the Jardin Serre de la Madone and Jardin Exotique Val Rahmeh, filled with rare plants from around the world. The Old Town rises in a maze of charming lanes up to the Basilica of Saint-Michel, offering breathtaking sea views. Menton’s unique microclimate nurtures exotic gardens and citrus groves, celebrated each February during the spectacular Fête du Citron (Lemon Festival). Blending French elegance with Italian flair, the town charms visitors with seafood, lemon-infused specialties, and artistic heritage at the Jean Cocteau Museum.
Monaco
I always recommend visiting Monaco at least once in your life — it’s a place where glamour, history, and breathtaking views all come together. Just a short 25-minute train ride from Nice, Monaco is easy to reach, yet it feels like stepping into another world.
Wander around the dazzling Monte Carlo Casino and the elegant Place du Casino, admire the luxury yachts in the harbor, and soak up the atmosphere of Monaco-Ville, the Old Town with its narrow streets and the Prince’s Palace perched above the sea. The gardens are another highlight — from the exotic Jardin Japonais to the palm-filled Jardin de la Petite Afrique, offering some of the best views of the Riviera.
Monaco is also rich in stories, from the thrilling Formula 1 Grand Prix to the timeless romance of Grace Kelly and Prince Rainier. For me, what makes Monaco unforgettable is its mix of beauty, elegance, and that feeling that you are walking through a living postcard.
Villefranche-sur-Mer
Villefranche-sur-Mer is a charming, picturesque town with a colorful harbor, sandy beaches, and stunning sea views. Its pastel houses and narrow lanes create a postcard-perfect setting, while the lively waterfront is lined with cafés and restaurants. From Nice Ville Station, the train runs every hour and reaches Villefranche in minutes, making it a cheap and budget-friendly way to discover one of the Riviera’s most enchanting seaside escapes. Wander through narrow cobbled streets with pastel-colored houses before heading down to the waterfront harbor, one of the most picturesque on the Riviera. Stop at a seaside café for coffee or a glass of rosé while watching fishing boats and yachts drift by.
Villefranche’s Plage des Marinières is a long sandy beach with calm, clear waters — perfect for swimming and sunbathing. Its sheltered bay makes it one of the most family-friendly beaches on the Côte d’Azur. Enjoy fresh Mediterranean flavors at local favorites like La Mère Germaine, known for seafood platters, or Les Garçons, tucked in the Old Town with a creative French menu.
EZE
Perched high above the Mediterranean, Èze is one of the most enchanting villages on the Côte d’Azur. With its cobbled streets, stone houses, and spectacular sea views, this medieval town feels like stepping into a fairytale.
Take the train from Nice Ville Station to Èze-sur-Mer (about 15 minutes). From there, catch the local bus up to the hilltop village. Bus 82 or 112 from Nice brings you directly to Èze Village in about 30–40 minutes, winding along the scenic Moyenne Corniche road. A 20-minute drive along the coastal road offers some of the Riviera’s most breathtaking views.
Wander through the labyrinth of cobblestone streets lined with boutiques, art galleries, and cafés. The charm is in simply getting lost among its flower-filled passageways. Jardin Exotique (Exotic Garden) is filled with cacti, succulents, and Mediterranean plants — but the real highlight is the panoramic view over the sea and coastline, one of the most stunning on the Riviera.
Èze is also home to La Chèvre d’Or, a luxury hotel and Michelin-starred restaurant with terraces overlooking the Mediterranean — perfect for a special lunch or coffee with a view. For something more casual, cozy cafés in the village offer fresh Provençal dishes and light bites.
GRASSE
Known as the world’s perfume capital, it’s home to legendary houses like Fragonard and Molinard, where you can explore their history and even join a workshop to create your own fragrance. Galimard is oldest perfumery in Grasse, established in 1747; Molinard is next, from 1849, Fragonard is the youngest, begun in 1926. Each parfumerie has free tours, shops, and a museum to explore. You can even make an appointment to mix your own scent.
A direct train from Nice Ville Station to Grasse takes about 1 hour 15 minutes, winding through the scenic countryside. Regional buses connect Nice and Grasse in around 90 minutes, a budget-friendly way to travel. Driving takes about 1 hour, giving you flexibility to explore nearby villages along the way.
International Perfume Museum – A must for perfume lovers, this museum showcases the history of fragrance from ancient Egypt to modern luxury brands, with rare artifacts and immersive displays.
Wander through Grasse’s medieval streets and old town, shaded squares, and colorful markets. The atmosphere is lively yet authentic, with plenty of cafés and boutiques tucked among historic buildings.
Grasse offers plenty of traditional Provençal dining, from casual bistros to elegant restaurants with hilltop views. Fresh local produce, olive oils, and herbs from the surrounding countryside give every meal a rich Mediterranean flavor.
CANNES
Cannes is one of the French Riviera’s most glamorous destinations, where golden sandy beaches, palm-lined boulevards, and a sparkling Mediterranean coastline create the perfect setting for relaxation and indulgence. Famous worldwide for its annual Film Festival, Cannes embodies the spirit of cinema and luxury. The iconic La Croisette promenade is the heart of the city, stretching along the waterfront with elegant boutiques, designer shops, and stylish beach clubs. Strolling here at sunset, with yachts anchored just offshore, you truly feel the city’s charm and glamour.
Beyond the red carpets and film screenings, Cannes offers plenty of experiences for every traveler. The long sandy beaches invite you to unwind under the Riviera sun, while the Old Town, Le Suquet, with its narrow cobbled streets and local markets, reveals a more authentic side of the city. For dining, Cannes has no shortage of excellent restaurants. From refined Mediterranean cuisine to cozy bistros, you’ll find places such as Astoux et Brun, famous for seafood, or more contemporary spots like La Table du Chef, where creativity meets French tradition.
The climate in Cannes is typically Mediterranean, with warm, sunny summers and mild winters, making it a year-round destination.
In my personal view, Cannes is more than just a glamorous hotspot for celebrities. It’s a place where cinema, culture, and the beauty of the sea come together. Whether you’re enjoying fresh seafood, wandering through the old town, or setting off on a boat adventure to the islands, Cannes leaves you with lasting memories of elegance and Mediterranean flair.
Hotel recommendations in Cannes
Hotel Verlaine – A boutique hotel with elegant design and a peaceful garden setting, just a short walk from La Croisette. It combines style with comfort, making it ideal if you want to enjoy Cannes without the full price tag of luxury resorts.
Hotel Barrière Le Majestic – Located right on La Croisette, this iconic hotel offers pure luxury with sea-view rooms, a private beach, and gourmet dining. It’s a favorite during the Film Festival and perfect if you want to experience the glamorous side of Cannes.
Okko Hotels Cannes Centre – A modern and stylish option close to the train station and the beach. Guests appreciate its all-inclusive concept with a lounge, snacks, and a relaxed atmosphere—great for travelers looking for comfort and convenience.
Île de Lérins- Île Sainte-Marguerite
A highlight of visiting Cannes is taking a boat tour to the Lérins Islands, just a short ride away. Île Sainte-Marguerite is known for its pine forests, rocky coves, and the historic Fort Royal, while Île Saint-Honorat, home to monks producing wine and liqueurs, offers a tranquil and spiritual atmosphere. These islands are a wonderful escape from the lively city, combining nature, history, and relaxation.
Among them, the largest – Île Sainte-Marguerite – is a true paradise for nature lovers, history enthusiasts, and anyone seeking clear waters and tranquility. The moment you step off the ferry, the island greets you with the fresh scent of pine forests and eucalyptus groves. Wide trails and shaded paths crisscross the island, inviting you to wander for hours. Hiking here is a real pleasure – every turn reveals a new view of turquoise waters, hidden coves, or rocky shores where seabirds rest.
Reaching Île Sainte-Marguerite is quick and easy:
Ferry from Cannes (Quai Laubeuf, Old Port) – boats run regularly, and the crossing takes only 15 minutes.
Snorkeling and Swimming in Crystal Waters.
For me, the highlight of Sainte-Marguerite is its secluded beaches and snorkeling spots. Away from the ferry landing, you’ll find quiet coves with incredibly clear waters. Put on a mask and fins, and you’ll discover a rich underwater world – schools of fish darting between rocks, sea grass meadows swaying with the currents, and the perfect feeling of swimming in untouched nature.
The Eco-Museum (Musée de la Mer) inside reveals the island’s unique ecosystem and maritime history, including Roman shipwrecks found nearby. See the underwater scultures by Jason de Caires Taylor. The views from the ramparts are spectacular – Cannes and the mountains in the distance, the endless Mediterranean stretching all around.
History lovers won’t want to miss the Fort Royal, the island’s landmark. This 17th-century fortress once held the mysterious Man in the Iron Mask prisoner.
If you enjoy walking, the island’s trails are a must. Some lead along the coast, where the sea sparkles between cliffs and pine trees. Others pass through fragrant eucalyptus woods and open to tranquil lagoons that are home to rare birds. The hikes are not difficult, but they give you that wonderful feeling of being far from the mainland – even though Cannes is just across the bay.
One important tip: there are only a couple of small snack kiosks on the island, and they may not always be open. For the best experience, bring a picnic or sandwich with you. Find a shady spot under the trees or sit on a rock overlooking the sea – nothing beats enjoying a simple lunch surrounded by this breathtaking landscape.
ST. TROPEZ
St. Tropez, once a humble fishing village, is today one of the most famous resorts on the French Riviera, known for its glamour, beaches, and vibrant lifestyle. Located about 110 km from Nice (roughly a 2-hour drive depending on traffic), it makes for a perfect one-day trip if you want to experience the legendary Riviera atmosphere.
The highlight for many visitors is Plage de Pampelonne, a stunning three-mile stretch of soft sand lined with beach clubs, restaurants, and crystal-clear waters.
Beyond the beaches, St. Tropez has a charming old town with narrow cobbled streets, pastel-colored houses, and lively squares. One of the best experiences is simply wandering through the streets at sunset, when the light turns golden and the town feels truly magical. Don’t miss trying the local specialty pastry, the Tarte Tropézienne, a delicious cream-filled brioche that originated here.
For dining, there are many options depending on your mood. Le Club 55 is the legendary beach restaurant on Pampelonne, known for its casual yet chic atmosphere. La Vague d’Or offers fine dining with Michelin-starred excellence, while Sénéquier, located at the old port, is an iconic spot to sip coffee or enjoy a meal while watching yachts glide in. For something more relaxed, small bistros in the old town offer traditional Provençal dishes with plenty of local flavor.
