French Riviera

France, Europe

The French Riviera, or Côte d'Azur, dazzles with its azure seas, glamorous beaches, and vibrant nightlife. Renowned for picturesque towns like Nice, Cannes, and Saint-Tropez, it offers everything from Mediterranean cuisine to luxurious shopping. Visitors can explore charming markets in Antibes, enjoy art at the Picasso Museum, or stroll along the Promenade des Anglais. Its multi-faceted appeal attracts sun-seekers, culture enthusiasts, and luxury-lovers alike, making it a premier destination for unforgettable experiences.

Quick facts

Target stay

5-7 days

Type

Region

Vibe

Relaxing

Airport

Mandelieu

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

14 Best Things to Do in French Riviera

1

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the beaches of Nice

Relax on the pebbled shores and enjoy vibrant beach clubs.

No booking required
2

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Stroll along Promenade des Anglais

Walk the famous promenade with stunning sea views.

No booking required
3

Est. 1.5 hrs

Seasonal

Adults only

Visit the Palais des Festivals

Attend a film festival or explore the iconic venue.

No booking required
4

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the old town of Antibes

Wander charming streets filled with shops and cafes.

No booking required
5

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Marc Chagall National Museum

Admire the stunning art of Marc Chagall in Nice.

No booking required
6

Est. 8 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Take a day trip to Monaco

Explore the luxury and glamour of this tiny principality.

No booking required
7

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Indulge in gourmet dining in Cannes

Savor exquisite dishes at world-renowned restaurants.

Booking required
8

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild

Tour the stunning gardens and lavish villa overlooking the sea.

No booking required
9

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the markets of Nice

Experience local culture through food and crafts at markets.

No booking required
10

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Picasso Museum in Antibes

See works by Picasso in a beautiful coastal setting.

No booking required
11

Est. 4 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Take a boat trip to the Lérins Islands

Enjoy beautiful scenery and tranquility on these islands.

No booking required
12

Est. 3 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Attend the Nice Carnival

Join the vibrant celebrations at one of the world's best carnivals.

Booking required
13

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Matisse Museum

Discover the works of Henri Matisse in Nice.

No booking required
14

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the Esterel Massif

Hike stunning trails with breathtaking coastal views.

No booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Expected (~10%)

Tapwater

Generally safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

Medium

LGBTQ+ safety score

8 (#21 globally)

Cost

Expensive

Currency

Euro

Majority religion

Christian

Language

French

(50-80% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Pot-au-Feu

French beef stew with vegetables. (National dish)

Coq au Vin

Chicken braised with wine and mushrooms.

Bouillabaisse

Provençal fish stew with herbs and spices.

Ratatouille

VE

Vegetable medley with herbs and olive oil.

Crème Brûlée

Creamy custard dessert with caramelized sugar.

Phrases to learn

English

French

Hello

Bonjour

(Bohn-zhoor)

Yes/No

Oui / Non

(Wee / No)

Thank you

Merci

(Mehr-see)

Excuse me

Excusez-moi

(Ex-kew-zay mwah)

How much?

Combien?

(Kohm-byen)