french riviera road trip 5 days

Ultimate French Riviera Itinerary in 5 Days

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Is there anything better than a French Riviera itinerary in 5 days? With its beautiful beaches, colorful villages, and sunny weather, the south of France certainly does have a unique charm that brings in many visitors every year.

And while we all wish we could spend a long time on a French Riviera road trip, sometimes, 5 days in Provence is all you have. 

However, there is a way to condense the best French Riviera itinerary into just 5 days and have the chance to visit stunning beaches, explore fun cities, and eat delicious food. 

I’m here to show you how below! 

Summary of the Ultimate French Riviera Itinerary in 5 Days

For a quick glance at the south of France itinerary in 5 days, I have a list below of where you’ll be each day. To find out how to plan your perfect trip, keep reading. 

• Day 1: Cassis
• Day 2: Cannes 

Day 3: Antibes

• Day 4: Nice
• Day 5: Choose a Day Trip From Nice

French Riviera Road Trip Map

Best French Riviera Itinerary in 5 Days

To get the best of the French Riviera let’s dive into the perfect itinerary! 

Day 1: Get to Cassis and Explore

For the first day of your French Riviera road trip, you’ll be arriving in Cassis . Now, there are a few ways to get here. The best option is to fly into Nice or Marseille and pick up a rental car . 

As you’ll be ending the trip in Nice, it is a good idea to perhaps fly round-trip into Nice and then get a car at the airport. Then, at the end of your trip, you can return the car before you fly home. 

The drive from Nice to Cassis is about 2 hours depending on traffic, but once you get to Cassis, hopefully before lunch, you can explore this truly lovely smaller city. 

This is the furthest destination in your Cote d’Azur road trip, and, while most itineraries will have you staying between Saint Tropez or Cannes and Menton, I fell head over heels for this less touristy town of Cassis. 

Also, as a side note, Cassis is a great place to visit to go to Calanques National Park . It is easy to just pay for a ticket at the Cassis Port and hop on a boat to see the lovely Calanques. 

Calanques are limestone cliffs with a deep valley below that makes a cove merging with the sea. And from the Cassis Port, you can choose how many you want to see and go via boat tour. You can also hike along the Calanques from Cassis, as well as kayak. 

It is a great opportunity to see this lovely geographical feature in the south of France. So after lunch, be sure to check out Calanques National Park . 

Aside from the Calanques, the port itself is absolutely stunning, as is the old town . If you happen to be here on a Wednesday or Friday morning, you can partake in the lovely farmers market. And you cannot leave Cassis without admiring the highest sea cliff in France, Cap Canielle . 

Then, to wrap up a day of exploring Cassis , you’ll want to enjoy its lovely beaches like Plage du Bestouan or Plage du Corton for time sunbathing or watching the sun go down. 

Where to Stay in Cassis:

Budget: This VRBO apartment is lovely!

Mid-Range: Hotel Les Volets Rouges – Cassis

Luxury: Chateau de Cassis

Day 2: Visit Cannes

After a lovely day and overnight in Cassis, it is time to drive closer to the other places you’ll be visiting on your trip. 

On day 2, you’ll be heading to Cannes . This city is full of luxury shopping and lush beaches, but there is more than meets the eye here. So arrive in Cannes and get exploring! 

First up, you’ll want to walk along the Croisette Promenade to take in the Mediterranean views and witness all the luxury shops across the street. If you have the money, by all means, go shopping, but if not, window shopping is a lot of fun too. 

After wandering around the Croissette Promenade, it is actually a great idea to enjoy some of the beaches of the Cote d’Azur. And what better way to do that than at a beach club, especially on a beach with soft, powdery sand?

Book a lounger at La Plage du Festival and enjoy cocktails beachside in your chair. Get a scrumptious lunch and a few Aperol Spritzes or glasses of Rose as you relax, frolic, and swim the afternoon away. 

In the summertime, beach chairs do cost about €40-50+ per day to rent, but if you show up in the fall, those prices actually drop to €25+. 

After your beachy afternoon, it is time to get ready for the evening. Once you’re ready, it is time to head over to the Église Notre-Dame d’Espérance on top of the hill, where you’ll be met with stunning views over the city and sea. 

Catch a sunset here before going to get cocktails at a fun place in the Suquet neighborhood like Le Jardin Secret . Then, grab dinner at Restaurant Mickaella for great seafood before ending your night in Cannes. 

Where to Stay in Cannes: 

Budget:  Novotel Suites Cannes Centre

Mid-Range: Hotel de Provence

Luxury: Hotel Barrière Le Majestic Cannes

On day 3, you only have a short, 25-minute drive to Antibes, another lovely Cote d’Azur town. Once you get to Antibes, you should wander around the Old City for a bit. Full of lovely cobblestone streets and ramparts, Antibes has quite the charm. 

Be sure to stop by the Marché Provençal for fresh fruits and veggies, and perhaps admire the art at the Picasso Museum . 

Then, a visit to Fort Carre is a must to see a 16th-century fortress that was meant to protect Antibes. 

Lastly, you’ll want to visit the incredible beaches of Antibes . A few beaches to check out include Plage du Gravette , Plage du Ponteil , Plage de la Salis , or even nearby Plage de Jean les Pins . 

Where to Stay in Antibes: 

Budget: Irin Hotel

Mid-Range: Hotel le Ponteil

Luxury: Hotel du Cap Eden Rock

Day 4 of Your Ultimate French Riviera Road Trip: Nice

On day 4, it is time to drive to Nice! Nice is only about a 30-minute drive from Antibes, so head over to the French Riviera’s most popular city and explore. 

This city has so much to see and do, but you’re really only going to spend 1 day in Nice . Start by strolling along the Promenade des Anglais along the Mediterranean coast for lovely views before continuing on to Cours Saleya Market . 

This market sells delightful produce as well as local lavender products, soap, etc. Be sure to grab a socca here. That is a chickpea flour pancake made with olive oil, chickpea flour, and water. It is then topped with salt and is a perfectly delightful mid-morning snack.

After your stop at the Cours Saleya Market, be sure to trek up to the top of the Colline du Château . This offers some of the best views of the city and the sea. Also at the top are archeological ruins, a waterfall, a park, and views over the port. 

If you have the extra time, be sure to check out some art museums like the Musee Matisse , Marc Chagall National Museum , or the Musee des Beaux-Arts de Nice .

Obviously, you can’t see them all in a day, but pick one and enjoy. Also, Place Massena is a lovely area with the Fontaine du Soleil ,  Promenade du Paillon , and Jardin Albert 1er .

Then, of course, to wrap up a day in Nice, you’ve got to watch the sun go down from the beach . 

Where to Stay in Nice: 

Budget: Arome Hotel

Mid-Range: Hotel Palais Saleya

Luxury: Hyatt Regency Nice Palais de la Méditerranée

Day 5: Day Trip From Nice

The day trips from Nice are seemingly endless, so this is a great day to pick a place to explore nearby to get a better feel of the French Riviera. 

If you want a lovely beach destination to wrap up your French Riviera itinerary, I suggest visiting Villefranche-sur-Mer . Less crowded than Nice’s beaches, you can even find a bit of sand here. 

For a stunning, sun-drenched town built into the hillside of the Mediterranean, then Eze is endlessly adorable. 

And if you want to get super close to the Italian border and love a colorful, vibrant town, then Menton is your perfect getaway. 

For those who want to check off another country, or love gambling, then you’ll definitely want to head into Monaco for the day.

And lastly, if you want to explore more of Provence outside of the beaches, then you can take a day to explore the lavender villages of the Luberon . 

The possibilities are endless. And if you want to just stay put, Nice is a fun place for relaxation on the beach as well. 

When to Visit the French Riviera

Most people love to visit the French Riviera during prime summertime, or June through August/early September. This is because this is the perfect time for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the weather. 

But, the French Riviera is lovely year-round! I mean sure, you can’t go for a swim in January, but the temperatures, while cool, are not freezing. 

If you would like to visit without a ton of crowds and enjoy the beach, I suggest mid-September through mid-October, as the weather is generally warm enough for a swim and the summertime crowds have begun dispersing. 

Also, early June is a good time to visit too before the hoards of summer travelers come in. 

Tips For Your French Riviera 5 Day Itinerary

Before your epic French Riviera road trip, here are a few key things to note:

• Learn a little French. I’m not saying be fluent (I’m still learning too!), but know a few words/phrases like how to order at a restaurant and ask where the toilets are.
• Always say “Bonjour/Bonsoir.” This is a France travel thing in general. It is important to greet people in shops and cafes with a simple “Bonjour” or “Bonsoir” depending on the time of day. I typically start saying “Bonsoir” after 5 pm.
• Take it slow. There is no need to rush around when you’re exploring the French Riviera. They take it slow there, and so should you. You’re on vacation after all! 
• Know basic French driving rules. If you’re planning to road trip on the French Riviera, then you’ll want to familiarize yourself with basic French driving rules. I find this post to be helpful . As a side note, it is a good idea to get your International Drivers Permit beforehand as well. It is easy to get from a place like AAA. 
• Be sure to budget for tolls and parking. If you’re renting a car, you’ll need to budget for tolls and parking, as you’ll likely encounter the need to pay for both during your road trip. 
• Book ahead of time. Book everything ahead of time, especially if you plan to travel during the peak tourist season in the summer. Hotels and rental cars go quickly then.
• Have fun! The French Riviera is a lovely place to spend 5 days, so enjoy each and every destination you get to visit! 

This is how to see the French Riviera in 5 days from Cassis to Nice and in between! Which stop would you most like to visit? 

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The Ultimate 5 to 7 Days in the French Riviera Itinerary

Last Updated on January 30, 2024

by Neota Langley

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

In this 5 to 7 days in the French Riviera itinerary, you’ll discover the capital of the area, Nice, as well as explore hidden gems nestled in the hillsides, uninhabited islands and the breathtaking cliffs of the Calanques National Park.

Located in the south of France , the French Riviera is a long stretch of coast along the Mediterranean Sea. Also referred to as the Côte d’Azur, this popular destination is famed for its glamorous cities, mediaeval hilltop towns, rich culture and pristine beaches that lead into the glistening azure sea.

Table of Contents

How Many Days in the French Riviera?

While it’s entirely possible to explore a small portion of the French Riviera by spending 2-3 days in Nice , to make the most of the entire region without feeling rushed, 5-7 days is the sweet spot. Allowing yourself the additional time will give you the freedom to discover the off-the-beaten-path locations between the main hotspots. 

With 5 days in the French Riviera, you’ll be able to enjoy the glitz and glamour of Monaco and  Cannes, the rich culture of Nice, soak in the sun in St Tropez and visit some of the picturesque hilltop towns and villages in between. 

Ideally, 7 days are the perfect amount of time to do this beautiful region justice. An entire week gives you plenty of time to head out of the cities to discover the lesser-known gems of the Côte d’Azur and soak in the authentic local culture.    

Getting To & Around the French Riviera

Nice is the 5th largest city in France, perched on the eastern side of the French Riviera, it makes the perfect starting point for this Côte d’Azur itinerary. Luckily, Nice is also incredibly accessible, whether you are arriving by plane, train or bus.

If you’re arriving by train, the station Gare de Nice-Ville is conveniently located just a short walk away from the city centre. The trains are a reliable and affordable way to access Nice from a variety of major cities across France and even a handful of Italian cities. You can view schedules here.

The Nice Côte d’Azur airport is the only major international airport along the French Riviera. This is a bustling airport with flights arriving from across the world. Access to the city from the airport is quick and easy with a regular free tram service covering the short 30-minute journey.

For the most cost-effective way to reach the French Riviera, you’ll find comfortable buses that connect Nice to a variety of cities and towns across France and Italy. You can view schedules here.

When planning your route, you may be wondering how to get from one location to the next.

While the buses and trains between cities are very good, to really make the most of your time and explore the hidden gems along the way, it would be advisable to hire a car. You can browse options here to compare options amongst several car hire companies.

A French Riviera road trip itinerary is the perfect way to embrace the region at your own pace and discover your own slice of paradise with hidden coves and quintessentially French hilltop villages not on any bus or train route.

If you are unable to rent a car for any reason then the trains and buses are an affordable and reliable way to make your way along the Mediterranean Coast, just bear in mind there may be a few spots that these primary routes don’t cover.

An excellent way to supplement this is with guided tours, these tours are more likely to visit the spots not served by regular buses or trains such as the Verdon Gorge or the Esterel National Park . 

If you are relying on public transport, pick up a French Riviera Pass with travel. This pass will allow you to travel freely on the Lignes d’Azur bus services and the city trams in Nice as well as providing free access to a variety of museums and activities. 

5 to 7-Day French Riviera Itinerary

Starting from east to west, this route covers the major hotspots as well as the hidden gems along the coast. If you only have 5 days to explore, you can follow the daily suggestions or mix and match depending on your ideal holiday. The proximity of the destinations means it is easy to curate this guide to suit your needs. 

Day 1 – Nice

The capital of the French Riviera, Nice, is the perfect place to start our itinerary. Not only is it the most accessible city along the coast but it also boasts a rich culture, delicious regional cuisine and a charming old town. Dating back to 350 BCE, Nice (previously known as Nike and Nizza) is easily one of the most cultural cities in France. 

On your first morning, make your way along the world-renowned Promenade Des Anglais. A 7 km long boulevard providing uninterrupted coastal views of the Mediterranean Sea, this is the perfect place to get a feel for the French Riviera. Grab a coffee and a fresh, buttery croissant from one of the many bakeries along the seafront along the way. 

From the Promenade Des Anglais, head into the old town (Vieux Nice). Meander along the narrow cobbled streets until you reach the Cours Saleya, a bustling market home to stands offering fresh fruit and vegetables, local flowers, handmade crafts and souvenirs. You can also  organise a walking tour  or  food tour  here.

The atmosphere is electric, the aromas exciting the senses as you make your way along the street. I would highly recommend purchasing a range of local produce to put together a picnic for the upcoming days – you won’t find anything quite as fresh and delicious in any supermarkets.

Next, visit one of the city’s many museums. Musée Matisse sits atop Cimiez Hill, in a 17th-century villa that was also once Matisse’s home. Here you can find an impressive collection of original paintings, drawings and sculptures.

The museum itself is surrounded by beautiful gardens and ancient olive groves. Cimiez Hill is also home to an archaeological museum, built on the site of the remains of the ancient Roman city of Cemenelum, which is definitely worth the visit if you are in the area. If you have purchased a French Riviera Pass, access to the museum is free.

Head back into the old town to discover some local Nicoise cuisine for dinner. You may have heard of the famous ‘Nicoise salad’, tuna, fresh vegetables and hard-boiled eggs but there are plenty of other regional delights to explore.

Try ‘Daube’, a hearty beef stew, ‘Ratatouille’, a rich vegetable stew originating in Nice or for a grab-and-go dinner try a ‘Socca’ at one of the street food vendors, a chickpea pancake served with a variety of toppings.  

Where to Stay in Nice

Nice Garden Hotel – Perfect for mid-range travellers, this 3-star hotel is ideal for those looking for a central place to stay in Nice. They have a number of lovely rooms available along with an unbeatable location for exploring all this coastal French city has to offer.

Palais Saleya Boutique hôtel – If you’re staying in the French Riviera on a bit of a higher budget, then this luxury hotel in the centre of Nice is an excellent option. They have a range of lovely rooms on offer along with countless other wonderful amenities.

Aparthotel AMMI Vieux Nice – This aparthotel has a number of fully furnished flats on offer for those who’d rather have their own space while visiting Nice. They have a central location along with breakfast available daily and an airport shuttle on offer.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Nice hotels!

Day 2 – Monaco Day Trip

No trip to the French Riviera would be complete without a day trip into the world’s second-smallest country, Monaco . Just 30 minutes away from Nice by train or car, Monaco offers a unique perspective of the Côte d’Azur. Famed for its riches, yachts, Monte Carlo and hosting the famous inner city Grand Prix, Monaco is a micro country overflowing with luxury. 

The best way to reach Monaco from Nice is by train. There are regular, affordable trains between the two cities throughout the day. 

If you have a car, there are several multi-storey car parks around the city so parking is convenient although perhaps the more expensive option.

There are two routes from Nice to Monaco, along the coast or up through the hills – both offer spectacular views across the Mediterranean Sea. When you’re driving, you also have the option to stop in the charming village of Eze along the way.

If you want to go on a guided tour to Monaco from Nice there are plenty of options such as this full-day tour .

Saying Monaco is expensive is an understatement, so make sure to pack a picnic with some of the local produce you picked up from the Cours Saleya.

If budget is no option, you’ll have plenty to do in Monaco, from luxurious yachts to helicopter rides and casinos. But don’t worry, Monaco is more diverse than it may first appear with a historical old town, botanical gardens and museums. 

After walking along the marina staring up at the super-yachts, head out of the city centre to Jardin De Exotique. You can reach the gardens on foot or by using the free public escalators that whisk you up the cliffside.

A stunning oasis perched above the city, this botanical garden is home to over 1000 species of cacti and succulents from across the world. Some of these plants are over a century old, towering cacti frame the panoramic view across the Port of Monaco extending as far as Italy.

Access to the gardens includes a visit to a cave set back in the cliff, full of stalactites and stalagmites. 

Head back down into the city to visit the Oceanography Museum. A cross between an aquarium and a natural history museum, this grand baroque building is home to an impressive collection of marine life and oceanographic artefacts.

Before you make the trip back to Nice, make sure you visit the old town, Monaco Ville (also known as The Rock). Much smaller than the old town in Nice, Monaco Ville still has the typical picturesque winding streets and colourful buildings.

Most visitors to Monaco focus on the marina and the city centre so even in the high season, this slice of history is fairly quiet and provides a nice, shady break from the city centre. 

30 minutes along the coast and we are back in Nice. For the best view of the sunset, take a walk up Castle Hill. A popular spot for locals and tourists alike, you can take in panoramic views across the city and along the coast as the sun sets. The perfect way to end the day. 

Day 3 – St Paul de Vence, Antibes & Cannes

Next, we wave goodbye to Nice as we continue our journey west along the French Riviera. Start your day by heading inland to the hilltop village of St Paul de Vence. A perfectly intact, Medieval village renowned for its art. Matisse, Picasso, Chagall and Renoir all spent time here, and today the narrow lanes are full of art galleries and artisan studios. 

Take a stroll through the historic streets, sculptures and vine-covered buildings around every corner. Alongside the many galleries that line the cobbled streets, you can find gift shops and chic cafes. 

Moving along the coast to Antibes, a 16th-century walled city. A popular day trip from Nice, it’s not hard to see why Antibes has captured the hearts of many artists over the centuries. 

Perhaps one of the world’s most famous artists, Picasso, lived in Antibes for a time and now has a museum dedicated to his life and works, the Musee Picasso. Entry is free for French Riviera Pass holders. 

Take the time to explore and stroll around the Cap d’Antibes, away from the hustle and bustle, this quiet peninsula is the perfect place to discover a hidden cove for a dip in the azure sea to cool off or simply take one of the hiking trails to embrace yourself in nature.

We end day 3 in Cannes , known for its glitz and glamour and, of course, the Cannes Film Festival -which is held at the Palais des Festivals et des Congrès annually. This city is the perfect place to spend the evening.

As the sun sets, take a stroll along the Croisette, a world-renowned boulevard stretching 3 km along the Mediterranean Sea. Here you will find a wide range of beach clubs offering fresh seafood and regional wines. 

Cannes is a hot spot for nightlife on the French Riviera so if the mood takes you, after dinner, check out one of the chic rooftop bars or head to a nightclub to dance the night away. 

Where to Stay in Cannes

Villa Claudia Hotel Cannes – This lovely, mid-range hotel is perfect for your average visitor to Cannes. they have a range of wonderful rooms to choose from, a fantastic location, breakfast on offer each morning and a lovely garden for guests to enjoy.

Hotel Splendid – This opulent hotel is perfect for luxury visitors to Cannes. Ideal if you want your French Riviera trip to be as splendid as possible, with gorgeous rooms and amenities like a bar, breakfast, room service and a lovely terrace.

La Bastide de l’Oliveraie – If you’re looking for a large suite instead of a traditional hotel room, then this sophisticated hotel in the centre of Cannes is a great option. There are several different rooms, a spa, a rooftop swimming pool and hot tub and a great breakfast served daily.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Cannes hotels!

Day 4 – Cannes

The next morning, take the ferry from Cannes to Sainte Marguerite – one of four Lerins Islands, just off the coast of Cannes. Spend the morning exploring the unspoilt island via the pine and eucalyptus-lined walking trails. You can pre-book tickets here.

At just 3 km long, you can easily reach hidden corners of the island on foot, perfect for a picnic. Don’t forget to stop in at the Museum of the Sea to visit the prison cell of the Man in the Iron Mask before heading back to the mainland. 

After soaking in the natural oasis of Sainte Marguerite, it’s time to make the most of Cannes’ wide range of watersports on offer. Whether you are an adrenaline junkie looking to parasail along the Mediterranean coast or simply want to take the afternoon to relax on a paddleboard or kayak.

The best way to see the coast is from the water, a unique perspective on the city and the hidden coves along the shore. Activities along the start of the Croisette tend to be more expensive than those towards the end so take a stroll along the boulevard to save yourself some pennies. 

After spending the day on the azure sea, head inland for dinner. Cannes’ old town may be smaller than Vieux Nice but it is just as charming. Cannes offers a wide range of restaurants, from Michelin-starred to rustic and homely. Restaurants line the streets of the old town so take your pick and settle in to enjoy some of the region’s finest food. 

Day 5 – St Tropez

It’s time to move further along the coast to our next destination, St Tropez . If you have your own vehicle, the drive takes just over an hour but there is a more picturesque way to travel between the two cities.

The ferry leaves Cannes at 10:15, cruising through the Mediterranean Sea to arrive in St Tropez at 11:30. You can pre-book tickets here.

The journey is truly invigorating, fresh sea spray, colourful parasol-filled beaches, hidden coves, and ancient seaside towns appearing around every corner. This is the perfect way to indulge in a boat trip without breaking the bank.

Long associated with sunbathing, beach parasols and deck chairs – St Tropez is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the region. Many of the towns and cities we have visited so far offer pebble beaches along their shores but not St Tropez. Here you will find wide stretches of golden sands, glistening turquoise waters and undulating dunes. 

St Tropez used to be a quiet fishing village, however, it rose to popularity when the 1956 film And God Created Woman starring Brigitte Bardot was shot here. Since then it has been a popular destination to soak in that Riviera style. 

Take the morning to stroll along the old port (Vieux Port). Once you pass the rows of luxurious, modern super yachts, you will come to a footpath that leads around the old fisherman’s district, La Poche.

The tiny beach and cobbled streets give you a glimpse into what St Tropez may have been like before it became a tourist destination. 

After building up an appetite, head into the traditional square, Place Des Lices to discover the charming restaurants offering regional cuisine. If you are lucky enough to be visiting on market day (Tuesday and Saturday) you will find a bustling market, sprawling across the plaza.

Locals come to the market to get their groceries from local farmers and bakers and to grab great deals on everything from antiques to spices, vinyl records to homeware.

St Tropez is much more than sunbathing on the beach but our next stop embraces the activity this city is known for. If glitz and glamour are your thing, head to the world-famous Pampelonne Beach. A 5 km scenic stretch of golden sand, clear blue sea and exclusive beach clubs.

If you want to soak in the St Tropez beach scene without dealing with crowds, you may want to head further along the coast to Canoubiers beach, a quieter spot where you will find locals taking a dip in the ocean and enjoying the natural shade of the umbrella pines. 

If you only have 5 days in French Riviera, this will be your final day. After returning to Cannes on the 16:30 ferry the options for onward travel are endless. Whether you are hoping on a flight from the Nice Cote d’Azur airport or taking your car across to explore neighbouring Italy.

However, if you’re taking a week to explore the French Riviera, then consider either basing yourself in St Tropex for the night or heading all the way to Hyères, the next stop on our itinerary, in order to avoid backtracking.

Day 6 – Hyères

On day six of this itinerary through the French Riviera, it’s time to head a bit off the beaten tourist path and visit the Western part of the Côte d’Azur. Often overlooked by tourists, this area is favoured by French travellers for being much quieter than the likes of Nice or Cannes . 

The charming mediaeval town of Hyères is our next stop. Take the morning to explore the city and wander through the narrow streets of the old town before bursting out to the open sandy beaches.  

Hyères is an unmissable destination but we are not here for the city itself. Just off the coast of Hyères, you will find the ‘Golden Islands’ a collection of 3 islands all offering beautiful vistas, sandy beaches, lush greenery and diverse wildlife but each providing visitors with something different. Shuttle boats run regularly from the port of Hyères.

Our destination is Port Cros National Park, a protected oasis of nature and tranquillity, this island is the wildest of the three. Providing 3 excellent hiking trails where you can fully immerse yourself in the natural and cultural wonders that you can find in Southern France.

The area is world-renowned for spectacular diving with crystal clear waters and an abundance of protected sea life. There is a dive centre along the harbour where you can book full-day beginner scuba courses or simply rent snorkel equipment. There are 15 incredible scuba diving locations around Hyères and the Golden Islands including a shipwreck off the coast.

There are several restaurants and accommodation options on the Port Cros island if you truly wish to immerse yourself in this beautiful Mediterranean island if you don’t plan to hop on the shuttle boat back to Hyères.

Where to Stay in Hyères

Hôtel Le Méditerranée – This cosy hotel located right on the beach in Hyères is ideal of those visiting this town on a mid-range budget. They have many clean, comfortable and bright rooms to choose from, a great location and breakfast available each morning.

Hôtel Lido Beach – This is another charming (and pet-friendly) hotel located on the beach in Hyères. There are countless lovely amenities for guests to enjoy, a number of delightful rooms to choose from and an excellent location for enjoying all the region has to offer.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Hyères hotels!

Day 7 – Cassis

The final bit of your French Riviera trip takes you even further west along the coast to the picturesque fishing village of Cassis. Nestled between the dramatic Cap Canaille (the highest sea cliff in France) and the Calanques National Park, Cassis is easily one of the most beautiful villages on the Cote d’Azur.

The port is the beating heart of this small town, still in use today, if you arrive early enough you will catch the fish market where local fishermen sell their catch of the day to locals and restaurants along the shore. 

The streets of the town are largely car-free so make a great place to wander around, discovering pastel buildings with colourful shutters and vines snaking over the balconies.

You can discover more about the history of Cassis in the Musée d’Art et Traditions Populaires, housing permanent collections of archaeological artefacts and fine art alongside temporary exhibitions from the Provence region. 

Pack a picnic and head out to the Calanques National Park, a stunning area of natural beauty. The park is home to 26 Calanques, which are narrow, steep-walled inlets that form in limestone rocks, resembling fjords. You can also take a bike tour here or enjoy some standup paddleboarding.

These breathtaking natural formations combined with the pale rocks, lush pine trees, sandy coves, and crystal-clear turquoise waters, make up this strikingly picturesque landscape.

The area offers some of the finest hiking in the region, whether you want to go on a full-day hike or just meander through the beautiful scenery for an hour or so.

It is possible to walk all the way from Cassis to Les Goudes which is located on the outskirts of Marseille, however, the majority of people who visit from Cassis tend to concentrate on the three closest Calanques: Port-Miou, Port-Pin and En-Vau. There are organised groups that can be joined to hike here.

Head back to Cassis for dinner on the port side. Enjoy the catch of the day at Le Grand Bleu or sample a local speciality bouillabaisse, a traditional Provençal fish stew along the back streets at Le Bonaparte.

Have More Time?

If you have more than a week on the French Riviera and want to explore more of this stunning coastline, Cassis is centrally located in the south of France making it the ideal starting point to either continue west or head inland.

For those visiting who have the use of a vehicle, there are several national parks throughout the French Riviera that are well worth the road trip. 

Verdon Gorge is a stunning, high-sided gorge with crystal-clear turquoise waters. Hire a kayak or a pedalo from below the bridge to meander up the river through the towering cliffs.

If you are visiting in the summer be aware the water levels can get quite low towards the top end of the gorge so you may not be able to make it all the way through the ravine. 

Those who have a bit more time could also add a few more of the Riviera’s picture-perfect villages to their itinerary. For instance, Menton is a popular option as is Villefranche-sur-Mer.

You could also opt to road trip through the lavender fields of Provence. There are multiple lavender farms spread out along Provence so the best way to see them is by road trip. If you can only visit one, head to Notre-Dame de Senanque. There are also many towns to visit in this region such as Avignon and Aix-en-Provence.

This 12-century abbey is surrounded by countless rows of beautiful lavender fields. Because of how iconic this stop can be (it’s featured on many postcards), it does get very busy in peak season. It’s worth it to arrive as soon as they open in order to avoid large crowns.

Although not technically part of the French Riviera, Marseille is a large port city that is worth a visit if you have more than 7 days in the French Riviera. With a bustling city centre, there is plenty to do in the 3rd largest city in France. 

The French Riviera is one of the most beautiful regions in France. With ancient cities, rich culture, stunning sea views around every corner and sleepy hilltop villages. With this itinerary, you will be able to cover the main destinations along with some of the local secrets and hidden gems along the way.

Are you planning to visit the French Riviera? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

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About Neota Langley

Neota is a writer for The World Was Here First. Born and bred in Cornwall, she can usually be found with hiking boots on, ready to embark on an adventure. For the last 6 years, she has travelled throughout Europe in her self-built campervan with her trusty canine companion, Ivy. She loves exploring France, the Nordics and spending time in Alpine destinations.

Thank you for the wonderful information. We head out to St. Paul de Vence for two weeks at the end of April. I’ve made lots of notes out of your suggestions. We decided to rent a car and look forward to seeing much of the riveria!

So happy you’ve found this helpful!

I loved reading your travel info. Having been there years ago we plan a week in Cannes and have a car, Well done Thank you

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Kirstie Will Travel

Making Everywhere You Go An Adventure

South of France · February 3, 2024

How to Spend 5 Days in the French Riviera (The Perfect French Riviera Itinerary)

Sparkling blue seas, pastel-coloured old towns, relaxing beach clubs, glamorous ports and Mediterranean views – the French Riviera is exactly as beautiful as you can imagine! Spend 5 days in the French Riviera on your next short break to enjoy a mix of relaxation and town-hopping between some of the most beautiful seaside spots.

This French Riviera itinerary will map out the perfect five-day trip, with practical information for planning your visit and all the best things to do on the Côte d’Azur. You can visit as many as 6 towns and cities in this time, and each one has a different charm to offer. And if you simply can’t get enough of the French Riviera, there are some recommendations to extend your itinerary at the end.

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5-Day French Riviera Itinerary Breakdown

Day 1: nice, day 2: antibes, day 3: free day (with suggestions), day 4: menton + monaco, day 5: nice, is 5 days in the french riviera enough.

Yes – in fact, I’d argue that spending 5 days in the French Riviera is the perfect amount of time for your trip. There’s plenty of time to see the main sights of the Riviera, explore some hidden gems, and take a day or two to relax and bask in the Mediterranean sunshine.

If you’d like to spend more time in the French Riviera, it’s easy to stretch out this itinerary to include more days relaxing, and spending more time in the different towns. You can find some recommendations at the end of this guide.

On the other hand, if you only have a few days in the French Riviera, check out this guide on how to spend a weekend in Nice – you can still see the city and maybe squeeze in a day trip!

Where is the French Riviera?

The French Riviera is on the southern coast of France in western Europe. It stretches from the Italian border near Menton in the east, to around Saint Tropez in the west.

Is the French Riviera the Same as the South of France?

Although the French Riviera is in the south, the South of France covers a much larger area. Spanning from the west all the way to the east coast, it covers the entire southern portion of the country, catching roughly everything south of Bordeaux. So, the French Riviera is in the South of France.

If you’re interested in seeing more of the South of France, check out this 7-Day South of France itinerary , taking you from Toulouse to Nice.

How to Plan Your Trip

With this French Riviera itinerary, what to do each day is covered! But it pays to think about the logistics, so here are a few top tips to help you plan your trip to the French Riviera.

Getting to the French Riviera

The main airport serving the French Riviera is the Nice Côte d’Azur International Airport. As the third-largest airport in France, you’ll find a long list of flights here – both from Europe and further afield. There are also regular internal flights between Paris and Nice. Nice Airport is close to the city, and well connected by tram.

France also has good rail connections and you can reach Nice and the French Riviera by train from many of France’s other major cities – including a direct train link to Paris.

How to Get Around

One of the best things about the French Riviera is that all the cities and towns are so well connected. Regular and reliable trains run along the coast to all the main spots, including Monaco.

The main route is a regional line (called TER), which runs from Ventimiglia, just over the Italian border, or Menton in the east, to Cannes in the west. From one end to the other, the train takes around an hour and a half. Tickets are cheap (just a few euros for each journey) and can be easily bought at the stations.

Where Should You Base Yourself on the French Riviera?

This itinerary is quite flexible with where you can base yourself on the French Riviera, mainly thanks to the excellent transport links mentioned above. I do recommend that you choose one place to stay for your whole French Riviera trip – it’s just not worth the hassle of moving from place to place when it’s so easy to get a return train to each day trip!

Where you choose to base yourself on the French Riviera depends on what you’d like to do on the trip. I have stayed in both Nice and Antibes, and recommend them both for different reasons.

Antibes is great if you’re looking for a more laid-back, beachy holiday. You can still take day trips to see more of the Riviera, but you can spend your free days relaxing in the sun.

However, if you want to be in on the action, visiting a different town every day and soaking up the culture, Nice is the place to be! It’s the main city of the French Riviera, meaning the most frequent train connections, livelier nightlife, and more to do.

When is the Best Time to Visit the French Riviera?

The French Riviera is known for its beautiful weather, so most would think that the best time to visit is during the hottest summer months of July and August. However, this is the busiest and most expensive time to go to the Côte d’Azur, and if you plan to do more than sunbathe the heat can be impractical.

What’s great about the French Riviera is that the weather stays pleasant outside of those months, and I recommend visiting in the ‘shoulder season’ – around May-June and September. The crowds will be smaller and the weather a little cooler, but still hot enough to relax on the beach.

If you’d like to have as much of the French Riviera to yourself as possible and aren’t worried about the weather, you could visit during the winter or early spring. I’ve been in February before, and although I missed out on sunbathing, it was still a great experience! You’ll get the benefit of quiet towns and cheaper prices, but bear in mind that a lot of places operate seasonally, and you might need to do a bit of extra research for places to eat and things to do.

Your 5-Day French Riviera Itinerary

Your French Riviera itinerary begins in Nice. Spend the morning getting acquainted with the largest city on the Riviera. First make your way to Port Lympia, Nice’s main marina. You can see the small Notre-Dame du Port , as well as admire the ships docked in the port, which range from small boats to luxurious super yachts.

Next, head to Colline du Château . The hilltop park offers amazing panoramic views over Nice. Start by climbing the steps (or opt for the lift!) up to Bellanda Tower where you can look out over Nice’s old town, beaches, and the Promenade des Anglais. Then explore the park a little. If you make your way to the other side you can look down on Port Lympia, and there’s even an archaeological site!

Now it’s time to get lost in the beautiful old town of Nice. You’ll explore several old towns on this French Riviera itinerary, and Nice’s is definitely the liveliest. Bustling streets are lined by tall houses with typical wooden shutters, and the ground floors are occupied by countless shops and boutiques, selling a charming mix of souvenirs for tourists and local artisanal offerings. Bars and restaurants spill out into plazas, and ornate churches squeeze into impossible spaces. Look out for Place Rossetti with Nice Cathedral, as well as Église Saint-Jacques-le-Majeur de Nice and Église Sainte Rita. If lunch is approaching, head to Chez Thérésa for some traditional Niçois socca.

If you’d like to dive deeper into the history and culture of Nice, you could take a guided walking tour through Nice and let a guide uncover plenty of hidden corners. Check out these options below.

Spend the afternoon in one of the many museums in Nice. I recommend Musée Massena, where you can learn about Nice and the French Riviera region, or Musée Matisse which houses many works of famous French painter Henri Matisse. To end the day, either grab dinner in Nice and enjoy the bustling nightlife with a few drinks in the old town, or head to your French Riviera base to end the day there.

The second day of your French Riviera itinerary is dedicated to the beautiful medieval beach town of Antibes. Combine culture and relaxation for the perfect day on the French Riviera! Start at Port Vauban, the largest port on the Mediterranean, housing some of the world’s most luxurious boats. From here, climb up the old city walls to explore the seafront and the streets of the old town. There are so many beautiful hidden corners and buildings to see here. Make sure you look out for Antibes Cathedral, pop by the Marché Provençal, and browse some of the beautiful boutiques.

After some lunch, check out the Picasso Museum. Famous artist Pablo Picasso spent some time in Antibes after World War 2, and the place he stayed, Château Grimaldi , has been turned into a museum that displays countless works he donated after leaving.

For the afternoon, you can choose to spend an afternoon on Plage de la Gravette or discover some more things to do in Antibes . You could visit the Archaeological Museum or Fort Carré, pop over to the neighbouring town of Juan Les Pins, or head back into the old town for some more shopping.

Pick a spot for dinner along Boulevard d’Aguillon. Then grab an ice cream from Gusto Gelato and wander along to the St James Bastion. You’ll get the chance to see Port Vauban again as you pass by. Up on the Bastian, there’s an impressive statue called Nomade which lights up at night.

Check out the best things to do on the French Riviera!

There are plenty of options for your third day – it completely depends on what kind of holiday on the French Riviera that you’re looking for, as well as where you’re staying.

If you’re based in Antibes, I recommend a day relaxing on Plage de la Gravette, you could head out to explore the Cap d’Antibes. The peninsula is known for beautiful bays, lavish villas and lush surroundings. There are some great hiking routes with stunning views, which you can reach by bus or car (although it’s a lot easier by car). Or take a boat tour around the Cap d’Antibes .

If you’re in Nice or further east, you could also spend a day relaxing on the beach. Bear in mind that most of the beaches in Nice are stony, so it might be worth visiting a beach club so you can have access to a sunbed. Or, head out for another day trip to the neighbouring towns of Villefranche-sur-Mer and/or Èze.

Start with Èze, a medieval hilltop town known for its panoramic views over the Mediterranean. It has one of the most beautiful old towns on the French Riviera, as well as a botanical garden to explore. After Èze, pop over to Villefranche-sur-Mer, where you’ll find another picturesque old town! This time you can expect bright streets and colourful buildings. This is one of the easiest day trips to take from Nice, as both towns are only a short train ride away.

Morning in Menton

The fourth day of your French Riviera itinerary involves a new country and one of the most beautiful towns on the Cote d’Azur. You’ll spend the first half of the day in Menton, the last town before you reach the Italian border, known for its affiliation with lemons and all things yellow.

When you arrive in Menton, wander along the waterfront until you reach Quai Impératrice Eugénie . Here you can look out on the most iconic view of Menton with its bright yellow buildings. You can also explore the nearby Vieux Port de Menton. After, climb the yellow stairs , making sure to take in the views all around you. Soon you’ll reach Basilique Saint-Michel Archange de Menton , a dominating baroque church which is free to enter and look around.

Now it’s time to get lost in the old town for a little while. Although small, Menton’s old town is as picturesque as they come, and the streets are some of the most beautiful I’ve ever walked. It’s also pretty easy to get lost – but that’s not such a bad thing! After some time in the old town, head back to the main centre of Menton to browse some souvenirs. You’ll find a multitude of lemon-themed offerings on Rue Saint Michel, and you could also visit the Menton Market for some local produce.

Afternoon in Monaco

Hop back on the train and head for an afternoon in Monaco. It’s important to note here that although you’re entering a different country, if you have a Schengen visa to enter France you should be covered for Monaco too (always worth double-checking this beforehand!). Just make sure you have your passport and any relevant visa documentation, as checks can take place on the train.

When you arrive in Monaco, head straight up to the Prince’s Palace area. The hill is a little steep, but the views at the top are worth it! I recommend walking up Avenue de la Porte Neuve , from where you can visit the Fort Antoine Theatre. The old fortress-turned-amphitheatre looks out over Port Hercule. Then continue your way along the hilltop, passing the Fisherman’s Garden and the Oceanographic Museum , which you could visit if you have enough time! As you make your way around to the Prince’s Palace and the centre of the old town, make sure you take the path through Jardins Saint-Martin to this viewpoint over Port de Fontvieille – it’s my favourite view in Monaco.

Next up, visit the Prince’s Palace and take a wander around the old town. The palace sits on a huge esplanade meaning it’s easy to get great views. You can also visit some parts of the interior during the summer months. As for the old town, look out for the Monaco Courthouse, Saint Nicholas Cathedral and the Monaco Town Hall.

There’s still a lot more to explore in Monaco. It’s time to head to the other side of the country – luckily that’s just a short 15-minute walk away! Make sure you first stop off at Port Hercule to admire the luxury yachts and then make your way to Monte Carlo. In this area of Monaco, the most famous attraction is the iconic Monte Carlo Casino. You can also browse some incredibly luxurious stores, see the Princess Grace Japanese Gardens, and walk the route of the Monaco Grand Prix. If you’re a big Formula One fan, you might enjoy this Monaco Grand Prix guided walking tour .

You’ve reached the last of your 5 days on the French Riviera. Your final day depends on your travel arrangements, but after checking out of your accommodation, I recommend making your way back to the main city, Nice. Here, you can visit anything that you missed on your first day in Nice back at the start of your French Riviera trip.

If you’re looking for more things to do in Nice, check out the Modern and Contemporary Art Museum (and the nearby Tête Carrée), Place Masséna and Promenade du Paillon, the Promenade des Anglais, or the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Nice.

Alternatively, check out these activities in Nice and the French Riviera if you have more time to spend on your last day.

More Time on the French Riviera?

If you’d like to spend more than 5 days on the French Riviera, you can easily expand this itinerary. Either add in some more beach days, spend longer in each place, visit some more destinations, or add in some special experiences.

Some more places to visit along the coast that aren’t included in this French Riviera itinerary are Saint-Tropez, Cannes, Bormes-les-Mimosas, Cap-d’Ail and Ventimiglia (Italy).

Which part of the French Riviera itinerary are you most excited for? I could go back and follow this exact trip over and over again, so I know you’ll have the best time! If you’d like to explore more of France after spending 5 days in the French Riviera, check out this itinerary for 3 days in Paris , or the best things to do in the dreamy alpine town of Annecy .

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The Ultimate 5 Days in French Riviera Itinerary

The French Riviera , also known as the Côte d’Azur, is a stunning stretch of coastline located in the southeastern part of France. With its crystal-clear turquoise waters, picturesque beaches, and charming coastal towns, it’s no wonder that this region has become one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world.

The history of the French Riviera dates back centuries. It was once a playground for European aristocrats and artists seeking inspiration from its natural beauty. Today, it continues to attract visitors from all over the globe who come to experience its unique blend of glamour and relaxation.

I remember when I was planning my trip and I called my friend to join me on this he was not even aware of the word “French Riviera”. 

Well, what can I say, you all have this one nontraveller friend who just wants to tag alone and stay away from the planning. So here is something for all those nontraveller friends, I can say this would be one of the South of France Itinerary that you can follow along to the brim.

What is the Best Time to Visit the French Riviera

Well, summers.

Okay, I know during this time the French Riviera trip tends to get expensive so can also think about shoulder season like April or May when the summer tends to start a bit.

You can check the whether about the full year below in order to find out 

Day 1: Exploring the Old Town of Nice

On my first day in the French Riviera, I decided to start my journey by exploring the old town of Nice . This vibrant neighborhood is filled with narrow cobblestone streets lined with colorful buildings adorned with flower-filled balconies. As I wandered through these charming streets, I couldn’t help but feel like I had stepped back in time.

One highlight of my visit to Nice’s old town was Place Rossetti, a bustling square surrounded by cafes and gelato shops, a charming stop on any perfect French Riviera itinerary.

Here, I indulged in some delicious local cuisine while soaking up the lively atmosphere. This could be an ideal way to spend a day in Nice during a 5-day French Riviera itinerary . Another must-see attraction in this area is Cathédrale Sainte-Réparate, a stunning Baroque cathedral that dates back to the 17th century.

Recommended Tours Which You Should Pre Book for Nice

• Day Trip from Nice to Monaco

Recommendation – Things to do in Nice France

Day 2: A Day Trip to Cannes and Antibes

For my second day on the French Riviera, I decided to take a day trip to two iconic coastal towns – Cannes and Antibes. Cannes is famous for its annual film festival which attracts celebrities from around the world.

As I strolled along La Croisette promenade lined with luxurious hotels and designer boutiques, it was easy to see why this city exudes an air of glamour.

After exploring Cannes’ glitz and glamor, I made my way to Antibes, a charming town known for its rich history and beautiful beaches. One of the highlights of my visit to Antibes was exploring the old town and its well-preserved medieval walls, a key stop on a 5-day French Riviera itinerary.

I also had the opportunity to visit the Picasso Museum, which houses an impressive collection of works y the renowned artist.

Recommendation – Things to do in Cannes, Things to do in Antibes

Day 3: Visiting the Glamorous City of Monaco

No trip to the French Riviera would be complete without a visit to Monaco, one of the world’s most glamorous destinations . As I arrived in this tiny principality, I was immediately struck by its opulence and grandeur.

It is fairly easy to reach here by Train, and yes I pre booked my tickets from Nice to Monaco and it didn’t cost me much.

The first stop on my itinerary was a visit to Monte Carlo Casino, an iconic landmark that has been featured in numerous films.

After trying my luck at the casino (unfortunately with no success), I explored other top attractions in Monaco such as Prince’s Palace and Saint Nicholas Cathedral. For lunch, I dined at Le Louis XV-Alain Ducasse à l’Hôtel de Paris, a three-Michelin-starred restaurant that offers exquisite cuisine in an elegant setting.

Read More: Things to do in Monaco

Day 4: Discovering the Beauty of Saint-Tropez

On day four of my French Riviera adventure, I headed towards Saint-Tropez – a picturesque coastal town known for its stunning beaches and vibrant nightlife. As soon as I arrived at Pampelonne Beach, one of Saint-Tropez’s most famous stretches of sand, it was clear why this place has become synonymous with luxury and relaxation.

In addition to lounging on pristine beaches, there are plenty of other things to see and do in Saint-Tropez.

One must-see attraction is La Citadelle – a historic fortress that offers panoramic views over the town and harbor below, and should definitely be included in a 5-day French Riviera itinerary. After exploring this charming village during daylight hours, be sure not to miss out on experiencing its legendary nightlife scene.

Day 5: Relaxing in the Scenic Village of Eze

For my final day on the French Riviera, I decided to escape the hustle and bustle of the coastal towns and head towards the scenic village of Eze. Perched high up on a hilltop, this medieval village offers breathtaking views over the Mediterranean Sea.

As I wandered through its narrow streets, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of tranquility and serenity. One highlight of my visit to Eze was exploring Jardin Exotique – a beautiful garden filled with exotic plants and sculptures. After working up an appetite, I enjoyed a delicious meal at Château de la Chèvre d’Or, a Michelin-starred restaurant that offers stunning views along with its gourmet cuisine.

Read More: What to do in Eze France?

The Best Beaches to Visit in the French Riviera

When it comes to beaches, the French Riviera, especially near the Italian border, has no shortage of options. Whether you’re looking for pristine sandy shores or secluded rocky coves, there’s something for everyone along this stunning coastline.

One top beach in the region is Plage de Pampelonne in Saint-Tropez . This long stretch of sand is lined with trendy beach clubs where you can relax on sun loungers while sipping cocktails. Another popular choice is Paloma Beach in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat – a hidden gem known for its crystal-clear waters and picturesque surroundings.

If you prefer more secluded spots, head towards Cap d’Antibes where you’ll find several small coves perfect for swimming and snorkeling. One such beach is Plage de la Garoupe which offers stunning views over Antibes’ old town.

Read More: Best Beaches in Nice France

The Top Restaurants to Try in the French Riviera

When it comes to dining in the French Riviera, there are plenty of options to satisfy even the most discerning palate. From local cuisine bursting with flavors to fine dining establishments offering exquisite gastronomic experiences, this region has it all.

For those looking to sample local specialties, Le Bistrot d’Antoine in Nice is a must-visit. This cozy restaurant serves up traditional Niçoise dishes such as socca (a chickpea pancake) and pissaladière (a savory onion tart).

Another top choice is La Colombe d’Or in Saint-Paul-de-Vence – a historic inn that has been frequented by artists such as Picasso and Matisse. Here, you can enjoy classic Provençal cuisine while surrounded by an impressive collection of artwork.

If you’re in the mood for fine dining, head towards Monaco where you’ll find several Michelin-starred restaurants. One standout option is Le Vistamar at Hotel Hermitage – a two-Michelin-starred restaurant that offers stunning views over the Mediterranean Sea along with its gourmet cuisine.

The Most Instagrammable Spots in the French Riviera

With its stunning landscapes and picturesque towns, the French Riviera offers endless opportunities for capturing Instagram-worthy shots. Whether you’re into architecture, nature, or simply want to capture the essence of this beautiful region, there are plenty of spots that will make your followers green with envy during a day in Nice or any day of your French Riviera adventure.

One top photo spot is Promenade des Anglais in Nice . This iconic waterfront promenade stretches along the Baie des Anges and offers breathtaking views over the Mediterranean Sea. Another popular choice is Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat – a stunning mansion surrounded by perfectly manicured gardens that provide a perfect backdrop for your photos.

For those seeking more natural beauty, head towards Gorges du Verdon – Europe’s answer to the Grand Canyon. Here, you can capture jaw-dropping shots of turquoise waters winding through dramatic cliffs.

The Best Shopping Destinations in the French Riviera

If shopping is on your agenda while visiting the French Riviera, you won’t be disappointed. From luxury boutiques to local markets, this region offers a wide range of shopping experiences.

One top shopping area is the Promenade de la Croisette in Cannes . This glamorous boulevard is lined with high-end designer stores such as Chanel and Louis Vuitton, making it the perfect place to indulge in some retail therapy. Another popular choice is Avenue Montaigne in Monte Carlo – a street known for its luxury fashion houses and upscale boutiques.

For those looking for unique souvenirs and gifts, head towards Nice’s old town where you’ll find an array of charming shops selling everything from handmade soaps to local artwork.

The Top Museums and Art Galleries to Visit in the French Riviera

The French Riviera has long been a haven for artists and art enthusiasts alike. With its rich cultural heritage, it’s no surprise that this region boasts an impressive collection of museums and art galleries.

One must-visit museum is Musée Matisse in Nice – a tribute to one of the most influential artists of the 20th century. Here, you can admire a vast collection of Matisse’s works including paintings, sculptures, and drawings.

Another top choice is Fondation Maeght in Saint-Paul-de-Vence – a contemporary art museum that showcases works by renowned artists such as Joan Miró and Marc Chagall. The museum itself is also a work of art with its stunning architecture blending seamlessly into the surrounding landscape.

The Best Outdoor Activities to Do in the French Riviera

If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, there are plenty of activities to keep you entertained while visiting the French Riviera, particularly if you spend 5 days exploring its diverse beauty. From hiking along scenic trails to indulging in water sports on crystal-clear waters, this region offers something for everyone.

One top outdoor activity is hiking along Sentier du Littoral – a coastal trail that stretches from Menton all the way to Saint-Tropez, perfect for the second day of your French Riviera itinerary. This trail offers breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea and takes you through some of the region’s most picturesque towns.

For those looking for water-based activities, head towards Cap d’Antibes where you can indulge in snorkeling or scuba diving in its pristine waters, a perfect addition to the ultimate French Riviera road trip. Another popular choice is paddleboarding along the coast – a great way to explore hidden coves and secluded beaches.

The Most Luxurious Hotels to Stay in the French Riviera

When it comes to accommodations, the French Riviera offers a wide range of options catering to every taste and budget. From luxurious five-star hotels to charming boutique properties, there’s something for everyone.

One top luxury hotel is Hotel Negresco in Nice – an iconic landmark that has been welcoming guests since 1913 and is an excellent place to stay in Nice during your French Riviera holiday. With its opulent decor and stunning sea views, this hotel offers a truly unforgettable experience.

Another standout option is Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc in Antibes – a legendary property that has been frequented by celebrities for decades. Set on a beautiful peninsula overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, this hotel offers unparalleled luxury and privacy.

After spending several days exploring the French Riviera, I can confidently say that this region is truly a must-visit destination. From its stunning beaches and charming coastal towns to its rich cultural heritage and world-class cuisine, there’s something for everyone here.

Whether you’re seeking relaxation or adventure, glamour or tranquility, the French Riviera, with a stop in Villefranche-sur-Mer, has it all. So start planning your own trip to this beautiful region today – you won’t be disappointed! Just make sure to pack your camera because every corner of this place is worth capturing on film.

Final Thoughts: Is the French Riviera Worth Visiting?

Well, I enjoyed the view of the city of the French Riviera, I would say that the south of France is something which should be on everyone’s Itinerary. 5 Days in the French Riviera was awesome for me.

While I was not the one doing the Riviera road trip some of my friends did do that a renting a car in Nice and they mentioned it was easy to manage that.

Will I do it again?

Well hell yeah!

FAQs: 5 Days in French Riviera Itinerary

Q: how should i plan my 5-day itinerary in the french riviera.

A: To plan your 5 days in the French Riviera, consider spending time in Nice, Villefranche-sur-Mer, and exploring other towns along the coast. Make sure to include a day trip to Monaco and allocate time for relaxing on the beautiful beaches.

Q: What are the must-visit places during a 5-day French Riviera itinerary?

A: Some must-visit places during your 5-day French Riviera itinerary include Nice, Monaco, Cannes, Antibes, and Villefranche-sur-Mer. Each town offers a unique blend of history, culture, and stunning views.

Q: How can I best explore the south of France in 5 days?

A: The best way to explore the south of France in 5 days is by starting your journey in Nice and then venturing out to other coastal towns like Cannes, Antibes, and Saint-Tropez. Consider renting a car for a road trip experience.

Q: What are some recommended day trips from Nice during a 5-day French Riviera itinerary?

A: Some recommended day trips from Nice include visiting Eze Village, Saint-Paul-de-Vence, Grasse, and the stunning Verdon Gorge. Each destination offers a unique perspective of the French Riviera.

Q: Where is the best place to stay in Nice for a 5-day French Riviera itinerary?

A: The best place to stay in Nice for a 5-day French Riviera itinerary is in the city center or near the Promenade des Anglais. This area provides easy access to the beach, restaurants, and transportation hubs.

Q: How can I make the most of my French Riviera road trip in 5 days?

A: To make the most of your French Riviera road trip, plan your itinerary ahead of time, include stops in charming towns like Villefranche-sur-Mer and Antibes, and allow for spontaneous detours to discover hidden gems along the way.

Q: What should I know before traveling to the French Riviera for a 5-day itinerary?

A: Before traveling to the French Riviera for a 5-day itinerary, make sure to familiarize yourself with the transportation options, local customs, and popular attractions in each town. Consider packing comfortable shoes for exploring on foot.

Sankalp Singh is the Founder and Author of Chasing Whereabouts. He is passionate about travel, photography, and food. He has travelled across Europe extensively to experience its quirks, culture, and diversity. He is a self-taught traveller and he has been exploring the world since the age of 25. When he is not travelling, you can find him at work being a Software Engineer in 9-5 Job.

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• Transportation
• Day 1 : Nice
• Day 2 : Villefranche-sur-Mer and Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat
• Day 3 :   Èze and Cap-d’Ail
• Day 4 : Monaco and Menton
• Day 5 : Antibes and Cannes
• Accommodation
• Restaurant recommendations (vegan-friendly)

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Getting to French Riviera and getting around

Arrival in nice.

Unless you come by car, chances are your arrival in French Riviera will be in Nice. This city is the 5th largest in the country and a staple of the South of France. As a consequence, getting to Nice is fairly easy, with several transportation options available:

✈️ By plane: The Nice Côte d’Azur Airport is located along the coast, only 7km away from the city centre of Nice. Many airlines operate direct flights from major cities worldwide. Once you land at the airport, you can then take the tramway line 2, direction “Port Lympia” and stop at “Jean Médecin” to reach the city centre. The journey lasts 30 minutes and costs 1.50€.

• 🚆 By train : Alternatively, it is possible to ride a train to Nice from major French cities. The train journey to Nice offers scenic views of the French countryside and the Mediterranean coast , making it a popular and enjoyable travel option. If you come from Paris, account for 6 hours; 2.5 hours if you arrive from Marseille. Please note there are several train stations in Nice; the main ones are “Nice-Ville” and “Nice Riquier” .

Using public transport in French Riviera

You don’t necessarily need a car to explore French Riviera’s main attractions. Indeed, the region has an extensive public transport network comprising buses and trains.

• 🚆 Trains in French Riviera : The TER regional express trains operate regular services along the coast, stopping at popular destinations like Cannes, Antibes, and Monaco. There is a line connecting Grasse to Vintimille ( Ventimiglia ) in Italy and vice-versa with around 15 daily departures both ways. If you do the whole journey, it lasts 2 hours and costs 17,5€ (fixed price). This line stops in Cannes, Antibes, Nice, Villefranche-sur-Mer, Èze, Monaco, and Menton; only to name a few. This means the journey between any of these cities is even shorter and cheaper!

💡 Tip: Download the SNCF app on an Android phone or iPhone to facilitate your train trips. This is the official train operator app, so you should find the most reliable timetables and updates there. Please be aware you will need an internet connection to download and see your tickets. Therefore, I advise screenshotting them. That way, you will be able to show them at any given time in case of control, even in signal-deprived areas. The Trainline app also works efficiently.

• 🚌 Buses in French Riviera : Buses are another way to connect cities and towns along the coast, as well as inland destinations. Find more information on Zou!’s official website , the regional transport operator, to plan your trip.

The essential spots of the French Riviera: a 5-day Itinerary by train

This French Riviera itinerary is Nice-based : which means you can interchange any given day with another. Not only it is flexible and adjustable to your needs , but also an ideal way to experience the city’s vibrant atmosphere. Nice, isn’t it? (hehe )

Day 1: Touch base in Nice

The first day of your French Riviera adventure will be spent in Nice, the capital of the region. Nice is a lively city that has attracted artists, writers, and celebrities for centuries, thanks to its stunning Mediterranean backdrop and elegant architecture.

Nice became French pretty recently! Previously a part of Italy, Nice was ceded to France by the Treaty of Turin in 1860, after which a referendum ratified the decision. The idea behind was that France would help Italy to fend off the Austrians in exchange.

Promenade des Anglais

To begin your day in Nice, take a stroll along the Promenade des Anglais, one of the most iconic landmarks of the city . This elegant boulevard stretches along the Mediterranean coastline for over 7 kilometres. It is lined with palm trees and dotted with benches, offering stunning views of the sea and the extensive mosaic of private and public pebble beaches . The promenade is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike, with plenty of activities to enjoy, including jogging, cycling, rollerblading, or simply strolling along and taking in the scenery. Moreover, there are several landmarks along the Promenade des Anglais, including the historic Negresco Hotel, the Albert I Garden, and the stunning Belle Epoque buildings that date back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

You can then head to the Old Town, or Vieux Nice, where you can explore the narrow streets and colourful buildings . Walking through the winding alleys, visitors can explore the quaint shops, charming cafes, and traditional bakeries. Make sure to try the local speciality, la socca , a delicious savoury pancake made from chickpea flour. As you wander through the streets, you will immerse yourself in the traditional way of life in the south of France.

Marché aux Fleurs

An unmissable attraction in Nice is the Marché aux Fleurs, taking place in Cour Saleya every day except Monday . This colourful flower market is a feast for the senses, with rows of stalls selling everything from fresh-cut flowers to potted plants and seeds. In addition to the flowers, you’ll also find a variety of other products, such as fresh produce, olive oil, lavender, and soap. The market is also surrounded by cafes and restaurants, making it a great spot for a leisurely lunch or coffee break. Whether you’re a flower lover or just looking for a unique shopping experience, the Marché aux Fleurs de Nice is definitely worth a visit.

Place Masséna

Place Masséna is the main square in Nice , located in the heart of the city. It is a bustling hub of activity, with its grand architecture, fountains, and statues . The square is surrounded by colourful buildings, shops, and restaurants, and is a popular spot for both locals and visitors. The square is also home to several landmarks, including the iconic Fontaine du Soleil and its impressive Apollo statue . In the evening, the square comes alive with colourful light displays, adding to the already vibrant atmosphere.

Colline du Château

Colline du Château, or Castle Hill, is a hilltop park located in the heart of Nice . It offers stunning panoramic views of the city and the Promenade des Anglais. Visitors can reach the top of the hill by foot or by a scenic elevator for free, and once there, can explore the park’s lush gardens, a man-made waterfall, and historic ruins . In addition to the breathtaking views, the park also provides a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of the city below .

Nice boasts a number of world-class museums, showcasing a diverse range of art, history, and culture . Art enthusiasts should not miss the Musée National Marc Chagall , dedicated to the work of the Russian-French artist and featuring a large collection of his paintings, tapestries, and stained glass windows.

🎟️ Admission to the Musée National Marc Chagall costs 8€.

🕒 The Musée National Marc Chagall is open on weekdays from 10AM to 5PM. During weekends, it is open from 10AM to 12PM and from 2PM to 4:30PM.

Other notable museums in Nice include:

• MAMAC (Musée d’Art Moderne et d’Art Contemporain) : modern and contemporary art from the 1960s to the present day, including works by Yves Klein, Niki de Saint Phalle, and Andy Warhol.
• Musée des Beaux-Arts : dedicated to fine arts, featuring works from the 16th to the 20th century, including paintings, sculptures, and artworks.
• Musée de la Photographie Charles Nègre : this museum showcases the history of photography, with a collection of over 3,000 images dating from the 19th century to the present day.
• Musée Matisse : dedicated to the life and work of the famous artist Henri Matisse, featuring a collection of his paintings, sculptures, and drawings, as well as his personal belongings.
• Musée Masséna : located in a beautiful Belle Époque villa, this museum showcases the history of the French Riviera, with a collection of paintings, sculptures, furniture, and other objects from the 18th and 19th centuries.

Day 2: Villefranche-sur-Mer and Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat

Villefranche-sur-Mer is a cute harbour town located just a few kilometres east of Nice and is easily accessible by train or foot. The train journey from Nice takes only 10 minutes and offers stunning views of the Mediterranean coastline. For those who prefer walking, the scenic coastal path takes approximately 1.5 hours and offers panoramic views of the sea and surrounding area. You may also pass by the Mont Boron: the path is shorter, but climbing.

Villefranche-sur-Mer

One of the highlights of visiting Villefranche-sur-Mer is exploring its narrow colourful alleys . The winding cobblestone streets offer plenty of opportunities to discover hidden gems, such as local shops and cute corners . Visitors can also admire the historic architecture and take in the lively atmosphere of this charming Mediterranean town.

Chapelle Saint-Pierre

The 14th-century Chapelle Saint-Pierre is a must-visit attraction in Villefranche-sur-Mer. This stunning chapel features beautiful frescoes by Jean Cocteau depicting the life of Saint Peter . Visitors can soak in the peaceful atmosphere that is perfect for reflection and contemplation.

🎟️ Admission to the Chapelle Saint-Pierre costs 3€ (cash only).

🕒 The Chapelle Saint-Pierre is open from Wednesday to Sunday between 9:30AM and 12:30PM and from 2 to 6PM.

Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat

After enjoying a few hours in Villefranche-sur-Mer, it is time to head to the nearby Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat. This little town is just a few kilometres southeast of Villefranche-sur-Mer and is easily accessible by bus, taxi, or walk. The bus journey takes approximately 15 minutes and offers beautiful views of the coastline. If you opt for it, take the bus line n°15 from “La Barmassa” in direction of “Port de Saint-Jean” and stop at “La Rade” . Alternatively, visitors can take a scenic coastal walk from Villefranche-sur-Mer, which takes approximately 1 hour and offers breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea.

Villa Ephrussi de Rotschild

The main attraction in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat is the Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild, a stunning mansion built by Baroness Beatrice Ephrussi de Rothschild. Perched on a hilltop overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, this stunning villa boasts an impressive collection of fine and decorative arts, including paintings, 18th-century French furniture, sculptures, and tapestries .

The Gardens of the Villa Ephrussi de Rotschild

Beyond the villa, visitors can explore the magnificent gardens spread over seven hectares, each designed in a different style. In total, the Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild features not less than 9 different gardens :

• French Garden : perfectly manicured lawn with neatly trimmed hedges, symmetrically arranged flower beds, and fountains.
• Stone Garden : a tranquil and shady area adorned with sculptures and a surprising collection of medieval artworks such as arches and gargoyles.
• Japanese Garden : a serene and contemplative space featuring bamboo groves, and a pond with Koi carps.
• Spanish Garden : colourful and vibrant Moorish-inspired patio that embodies the spirit of Andalusia with its ornate fountains, brightly coloured tiles, and citrus trees.
• Exotic Garden : the kingdom of succulents and gigantic cacti.
• Rose Garden : a romantic and fragrant garden filled with thousands of rose bushes, arranged in tiers and terraces.
• Florentine Garden : formal garden designed in the Italian Renaissance style, featuring intricate parterres, a water basin, and a statue of Venus.
• Provençal Garden : picturesque area inspired by the rural landscapes of Provence, with lavender fields, and olive and pine trees.
• Sèvres Garden : a delicate tea room set up on a terrace of the villa offering an extraordinary view of the surroundings.

🎟️ Admission to Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild and its gardens costs 16€ for adults, 15€ for elders (>65), 11€ for youths (7-25), and is free for children under 7.

🕒 Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild is open for visits every day from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

🌐 Find more information on Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild’s official website to plan your visit.

After enjoying the Villa – and probably taking a zillion pictures – it will be time to head back to Nice. If you came by bus, simply take the same (line n°15) but in the opposite direction and stop at “Garibaldi” .

Day 3: Èze and hidden beaches

Èze, a charming medieval village perched high above the Mediterranean Sea , is a must-visit destination on the French Riviera. A visit to Èze can make a half-day or full-day trip depending on your pace and preferences. To get to Èze from Nice, you can take the bus, the train, or drive. Taking the bus will directly take you to the village, while the train will leave you at sea level. From there, you can either get to the village by a 1-hour hike (more on that later) or wait for a shuttle bus. Be aware that these buses are pretty infrequent, so check the times ahead!

Èze Village

If you arrive by bus or car, you will start by visiting the gorgeous Èze village with its narrow cobbled streets and ancient stone houses . The village is home to several art galleries, artisan shops, and restaurants serving delicious Provençal cuisine. Take all your time to stroll in the beautiful alleys: you might get a bit lost, but Èze is small anyway!

Èze Exotic garden

Without any doubt, the main highlight of Èze is the stunning Jardin Exotique d’Èze , a botanical garden filled with exotic plants from around the world . Visitors can take their time to admire a variety of cacti and succulents . The garden is built on the ruins of an ancient castle and offers breathtaking views over the Mediterranean Sea. From there, you can easily spot the St-Jean-Cap-Ferrat peninsula, as well as Nice from afar!

🎟️ Admission to Jardin Exotique d’Èze costs 7€ (4€ for students) and is free for children under 12.

🕒 Villa Jardin Exotique d’Èze is open for visits every day from 9:00 AM. It closes at 4:30PM from November to March, at 7:30PM from July to September and at 6:30PM the rest of the year.

🌐 Find more information on  Jardin Exotique d’Èze ‘s official website to plan your visit.

Fragonard Perfumery

Fragonard is a famous perfume and cosmetics brand and one of the oldest perfumeries in Côte d’Azur. In the charming village of Èze, visitors can explore the Fragonard perfume factory and museum . Here, they can learn about the history of perfume making, witness the production process, and sample the brand’s signature scents. It is a unique opportunity to experience the art of perfumery firsthand and indulge in the luxurious world of fragrance, all for free.

Sentier de nietzche

If you are looking for a challenging adventure, try the Sentier de Nietzsche, a scenic hiking trail between Èze train station and Èze village . The trail is named after the German philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche, who was said to have walked this path in search of inspiration. Along the way, you’ll pass through fragrant pine forests, rocky cliffs, and panoramic viewpoints over the sea . Although short (only 2.1 km), be aware this hike requires a good level of fitness, even if you only do the descending way. Moreover, the path is almost constantly exposed to the sun and uneven, so please wear sensible footwear (in other words: please be smart and don’t go with flip-flops).

Relax in the beautiful beaches of Cap d’Ail

After all the exploration, you might want some refreshing relaxation by the sea. You can head to nearby Cap-d’Ail which offers several sand beaches surrounded by rugged cliffs : Mala and St Laurent. Both beaches offer stunning views over the Mediterranean and are great spots for sunbathing and picnicking.

Whenever you are ready to go back to Nice, simply take the train: the journey back only takes 20 minutes from Cap-d’Ail, and 15 minutes from Èze.

Day 4: Monaco and Menton

For the 4th day of this suggested itinerary, it will be time to visit another country! Indeed, Monaco is one of the smallest countries in the world (second after the Vatican) and is very easily accessible from Nice.

Tête de Chien (Optional)

The ‘Tête de Chien’ is a famous viewpoint that offers stunning panoramic views over Monaco and the surrounding areas . Located at an altitude of 550 meters, the viewpoint is accessible by car or on foot via a steep hiking trail. The viewpoint is especially popular during sunset when the sky turns into a spectacular display of colours. Tête de Chien is a must-visit attraction for anyone who wants to enjoy some of the best views of Monaco and the French Riviera.

I marked it as “optional” because there is no straightforward access by public transport. I managed to get there for sunrise with a mix of bus (line 603, stop at “La Turbie” ) plus a small hike. So, it is definitely doable even without a car, but it requires some extra energy and planning ahead. But if you have a vehicle, you have no excuse to miss this incredible spot!

After so much Monegasque extravaganza-seeing, you can now come back to France and head to a quieter destination: Menton. It is a charming town located on the French-Italian border. So charming, in fact, that it is nicknamed “The Pearl of France “!   Visitors can easily reach Menton from Monaco by train in less than 15 minutes, with trains departing regularly. However, when arriving in Menton by rail, the charm is not directly obvious: visitors must get closer to the historic old town and the beach to sense it. Once there, they can experience the charming narrow streets, colourful houses, citrus trees, and lively atmosphere . Menton’s outline is dominated by the Basilica of Saint-Michel-Archange, a stunning 17th-century baroque church that is worth a visit. Last but not least, the beaches in Menton are some of the best in the French Riviera, offering crystal-clear waters and breathtaking views of the coastline.

Menton is a scenic spot to watch the sunset . Be careful if you come by train though: although there are frequent departures throughout the day, there are no trains heading back to Nice after 9PM. The journey takes about 40 minutes.

Day 5: Antibes and Cannes

For the last day of this suggested French Riviera itinerary, it is time to head west of Nice. You will visit the beautiful towns of Antibes and Cannes, as well as the gorgeous coastline between them.

Antibes is a small town with a rich history and culture. The most noticeable sight is the Chateau Grimaldi , which nowadays houses the Picasso Museum. Visitors can also explore the town’s historic Old Town, which features a maze of narrow streets and picturesque squares . The Old Town is also home to the famous Marché Provencal , a lively market selling fresh produce, seafood, and artisanal goods. Antibes is very easily accessible by train from Nice, through a 20-minute direct journey. I recommend spending a couple hours there and then heading to the Cap d’Antibes in order to enjoy a scenic coastal hike.

Sentier du Littoral

One of the highlights of a visit to Antibes is the Sentier du Littoral , a coastal path offering breathtaking views. The trail stretches for five kilometres, starting at the Plage de la Garoupe and finishing at the Villa Eilenroc. Along the way, visitors can discover hidden coves and beaches, get a glimpse of stunning villas, and take in the beautiful scenery . The walk is suitable for all levels of fitness and can be enjoyed year-round.

🎟️ The Sentier du Littoral is free to access. In case of dangerous weather, the trail might be closed.

Cannes is only a short train ride away from Antibes; if you completed the Sentier du Littoral in Antibes, catch the train from Juan-les-Pins station. The cityof Cannes is known worldwide for its glitz and glamour, luxurious hotels, designer shops, sandy beaches , and last but not least the Cannes Film Festival . Indeed, every year during May, the city becomes the playground of celebrities from all around the world. Apart from this major event, Cannes is still a port town where you can enjoy authentic experiences. For example, you can stroll in the old neighbourhood called Le Suquet, or mingle with locals in Marché Forville , the local farmer’s market. Once you are done, simply catch a train back to Nice; the return journey only lasts 40 minutes.

Ideas to add to this French Riviera itinerary

And that wraps this 5-day French Riviera itinerary suggestion! It was designed to give an overview of the most emblematic sights this stunning region has to offer. In case you are lucky enough to stay longer than 5 days in French Riviera, here are some suggestions on things to do:

• St Paul de Vence : a charming fortified hilltop village with narrow streets, art galleries, and stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
• St Tropez : a luxurious coastal town with a picturesque harbour, high-end shops, and trendy beach clubs frequented by celebrities.
• Fort du Mont St Alban : a historical fortification located between Nice and Villefranche-sur-Mer.
• Iles de Lérins : a group of two islands located off the coast of Cannes, offering beautiful beaches, nature trails, and historical sites such as the 11th-century fortified monastery on Saint-Honorat.
• Grasse : a town known as the world’s perfume capital, where visitors can explore perfumeries and learn about the production of perfumes and fragrances.
• Mercantour National Park : located in the French Alps, this park features snow-capped peaks, glaciers, lakes, and dense forests, home to diverse flora and fauna.

The best places to stay at during your French Riviera itinerary

Nice boasts an extensive offer of accommodation, from hostels to luxury palaces. Find some recommendations with great quality/price ratios below. Accommodations in Nice are booked fast, especially between May and September, so reserve your room as early as you can!

🛏️  Check more available hotels in Nice .

Please note that the prices mentioned above are indicated per night and based on the prices indicated in April 2023 for a stay during the mid-season (September 2023). Prices tend to be lower from October to April, and much higher from May to August. They are subject to fluctuation according to supply and demand, time of the year, and the will of the owners.

Vegan-Friendly restaurants for your French Riviera itinerary

No need to worry if you are a vegetarian or vegan in the South of France! Fresh bread and delicious vegetables are always at arm’s length, and most restaurants will have dedicated options or be arranging. Moreover, Nice has several fully vegan places to enjoy a good meal. Below are some of my favourite suggestions:

• Utopia Restaurant Vegitalien: Italian restaurant serving a seasonal menu plus a year-long menu of pizzas and pasta. Their cuisine is delicious and the portions generous. This place easily goes in my top 3 favourite vegan restaurants. Reservation is (strongly) advised.
• Amour Pâtisserie: a cosy cafe serving delicate vegan cakes and pastries. Perfect for dessert or an afternoon break.
• Caju: a small restaurant in the heart of the Old Town offering burgers, smoothies and cakes.
• Not Dog : as their name indicate, this is the place to get hot dogs, minus the meat. Most of the ingredients are home-made, including the bread, and the owners are super friendly!

Budget for this French Riviera itinerary

French Riviera is not really considered a budget-friendly destination, although it is definitely possible to visit without breaking the bank . Indeed, public transport is affordable and many attractions can be enjoyed for free. Of course, accommodation will be your biggest expense, so try to book as early as possible in order to find the best deals.

If you follow this 5-day French Riviera itinerary, here is a sum-up of your main expenses:

• Transportation: ~45€ (trips to Villefranche-sur-Mer, Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, Èze, Monaco, Menton, Antibes, Cannes + returns to Nice)
• Accommodation: 50€ per night in a hostel during high season (20€ during low season); 120€ and onwards per night in a hotel
• Attractions: 23€ (admissions to Villa Ephrussi de Rotschild + Èze Exotic Garden)

I hope this 5-day French Riviera itinerary has been helpful and informative!

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Hello! I am Sha, a French solo travel lover and the person behind ‘ The Blog Trotter ’ .​ My goal with this travel blog is to make responsible travel easier . I’m super glad to see you here; h appy exploring!

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The perfect French Riviera itinerary – 5 Days of cities and beaches

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The French Riviera is one of the world’s most charming destinations. With its stunning landscapes, natural wonders, Mediterranean climate, and rich cultural heritage, it’s a dream holiday destination for many. And the perfect way to get to know this stunning region in France is by following this French Riviera itinerary that combines the best cities and beaches.

If you look at the French Riviera map, you will see a magnificent stretch of land that sits between the Alps and the Mediterranean Sea. Going from Tulon or Saint Tropez to Menton on the French-Italian border, including the Principality of Monaco .

The French Riviera (also called Côte d’Azur), It’s not a proper territory or a historical region. In fact, the name was created by the French writer Stephen Liegeard in 1887, when he mentioned the region and called it Côte d’Azur. Interesting, right?!

In addition to its natural and historical beauty, what makes the French Riviera holidays so unique is the number of places and activities to explore in the region.

But with so much to see and do, planning your French Riviera itinerary can be daunting (especially if you are short on time!).

Personally, I have been living here for a few months now and still discover something new every day. It can be a lovely small beach town or unseen colorful streets with historic houses.

That’s why I’ve put together this 5-day French Riviera itinerary to make sure you get the most out of your trip to the Côte d’Azur!

Keep reading for the perfect itinerary for a first-time visit to the French Riviera.

How many days on the French Riviera?

It’s recommended that you spend at least five days on the French Riviera, as this will give you enough time to explore the area and get a good feel of it.

In fact, I recommend spending even more than five days if possible, as there is so much to see and do on the French Riviera’s iconic beaches and coastal towns.

If you have less time than that, that’s perfectly okay too, but you will need to reduce the list of places to visit or consider booking one of these tours from Nice to save time and be able to see more of what this beautiful region has to offer.

When is the best time to visit the French Riviera? 

Now that you know how many days you should stay on your French Riviera itinerary, let’s talk about the best time to visit this incredible region in Southern France.

French Riviera weather is pleasant all year around, and it can be a great destination even during winter if you know what to expect and where to go. That’s why it is so important to plan your itinerary on the French Riviera wisely.

Spring and Summer are the best times to visit French Riviera beaches . But keep in mind that from mid-June to August the popular beaches are packed, the hotels are more expensive and you will need to book your activities and restaurants in advance.

The fall brings rain and quieter beaches. You still can swim and enjoy the French Riviera cities’ attractions. 

French Riviera winter is mild when compared with the rest of France, but it’s not ideal for a beach holiday.

Christmas Holidays and the Carnaval in February are busy times , with a lot of people traveling to the French Riviera.

Talking about busy times, keep an eye on the French Riviera events, as they attract a lot of tourists. During those periods the cities are super busy and booking anything on those dates is very hard and expensive.

If you want to attend one of these events you better plan and book your trip way in advance.

Some of the most famous events on the French Riviera:

• Fête du Citron in Menton (February)
• Nice Carnaval (February)
• Cannes Film Festival (May)
• Monaco Grand Prix (May)
• Monte Carlo Fashion Week (May)
• Nice Jazz Festival (July)
• Nice Pink Parade (Gay Pride – July)
• Cannes Firework festival (July to August)
• Cannes Yachting Festival (September)
• Monte Carlo Jazz festival ( November)

Choose Nice as your French Rivera travel base!

I highly recommend staying in Nice and doing day trips to the French Riviera’s pristine beaches and charming villages, as the region is very well connected by train and bus. 

That way, you don’t need to spend time packing and unpacking, checking in and out of a different hotel every day. Less stress, more fun!

Nice is the largest city in the area, with its lovely seafront, beautiful Old Town, and vibrant nightlife, it’s the perfect place to base yourself!

Nice is the hub of the French Riviera and chances are it is where you will be flying into.

Nice Côte d’Azur International Airport is the busiest airport after the ones in Paris. So if you are looking for the best flights to French Riviera you can start searching for flights to Nice on Skyscanner .

Where to stay in Nice?

Nice is a big city and offers all types of accommodation, from luxury hotels to villas for rent, mid-range hotels, hostels, and even camping.

You might not know, but there are many camping sites on the French Riviera and some of them are close to Nice. But as we are planning a 5 days trip, my suggestion is that you book a well-located hotel in Nice, so you can get around easily, saving on transportation costs and time.

Here are some suggestions on where to stay in Nice

• Luxury hotels in Nice:

Hotel Le Negresco , Hotel Boscolo Nice and Hyatt Regency Nice Palais de la Méditerranée are famous for their elegant decoration and impeccable service.

• Mid-range hotels in Nice:

Hotel de France , Arome Hotel , and Best Western Hotel Lakmi Nice are great options with comfortable rooms and good locations.

• Budget hotels in Nice:

La Maïon Guesthouse , Hôtel OZZ by Happyculture , and Villa Saint Exupery Beach Hostel offer good accommodation options at affordable rates.

How to get around the French Riviera?

All the beautiful beaches and Riviera towns listed on this itinerary are connected by bus or train, which means that you don’t need to rent a car to explore the region.

If you still want to drive, you can compare the rental car prices on Rentalcars and ​​ Auto Europe . The French Riviera is one of those incredible road trips that give you incredible views, passing by beautiful villages, hilltop towns, and panoramic views of the Mediterranean turquoise water.

Public transportation work very well in the region. The best places to visit on the French Riviera are close to Nice.

To have an idea, it takes only 30 minutes to go from Nice to Monaco by bus, or 30 minutes to go from Nice to Cannes by train. Other nearby towns will take only 15 minutes by train, super fast and perfect for day trips.

Google Maps is your best friend to plan your routes, and the French SNCF train website is where you can buy train tickets online and in advance, or you can get your ticket at the train station.

The Perfect 5-Day French Riviera Itinerary

Without further ado, here is my ultimate 5-day French Riviera itinerary:

Day 1: Explore Nice, French Riviera’s hub

Start your adventure by exploring Nice’s old town – Vieux Nice . This bustling area is full of colorful houses and narrow cobbled streets lined with cafés, restaurants, and shops.

Get lost among the winding alleyways as you look for souvenirs or delicious treats to enjoy along the way. Afterward, head up to Castle Hill Park for a stunning view of the city and the Mediterranean Sea. And if you have time, Nice’s Old Port is worth visiting as well.

End your day by taking a stroll along Promenade des Anglais or grab some dinner at one of the many amazing restaurants in Nice like La Bocca or the classic brasserie Chez René Socca.

If you want to understand a bit more about the history and culture of Nice, you can join one of the walking tours that will take you to the main attractions. Here is a great 3-hour Nice Walking tour you can join, and there is also a 2-hour Scenic Drive by 3-Wheel Vehicle Tour that looks like so much fun.

Here are other interesting activities and tours you can do in Nice’s city center and around:

Day 2: monaco & èze village, french riviera’s medieval town.

Head east to the small principality of Monaco and see all the luxurious yachts and explore the sights. Start at the iconic Monte Carlo Casino , where you can admire its opulent architecture up close.

From there make your way to the Prince’s Palace and take some pictures of the guard changing ceremony.

Afterward, leave Monaco behind and make your way to Èze Village – a beautiful hilltop village full of winding cobblestone streets and breathtaking views of the sea.

This quaint medieval village is known for its spectacular views, striking fragrant botanical gardens, and cozy narrow streets.

Make sure to stop by one of the many restaurants or cafés for dinner before taking the train back to Nice. 

If you don’t want to worry about getting from Nice to Monaco e Èze, you can join a tour and have all the transportation and activities planned for you.

Here is a  half-day tour from Nice to Monaco and Èze main attractions , they even pick you up at your accommodation, sweet!

Day 3: Antibes & Cannes, a must in any French Riviera itinerary

Today we will explore two more of the French Riviera cities: Antibes and Cannes.

Start your day in Antibes, a charming town located on the Bay of Angels . Here you can wander around the old town area and admire the beautiful architecture or visit some of the cozy markets and shops found throughout the city.

Make sure to check out some of their delicious local seafood specialties like Socca – an oven-baked chickpea pancake that is served as a snack or side dish. 

From there head over to Cannes, known for its luxury shopping, star-studded film festival and private beach clubs. Stroll along La Croisette (the iconic boulevard) lined with exclusive designer stores and get a glimpse of the Mediterranean Sea.

Again, if you don’t want to plan your day trip to Cannes and Antibes, you can book a guided tour. Here is a well recommend half-day tour from Nice to Canned and Antibes , you can just sit, relax and enjoy.

But you like to do different activities, I’ve selected 3 incredible experiences you can only have in Cannes, French Riviera. Check them out!

Unique things to do in Cannes :

Day 4: villefranche-sur-mer, and incredible seaside village.

Back in Nice, it’s time to relax a little bit after all those French Riviera day trips, so why not spend your day at the beach in Villefranche-sur-mer ? 

Located in the heart of the French Riviera, Villefranche-sur-Mer is a picturesque port town full of colorful buildings and cobblestone streets.

Make sure to take advantage of the stunning pebble beaches here – some even offer beach chairs and umbrellas for your convenience. The warm blue waters are perfect for swimming or snorkeling and exploring the many coves around the bay.

Also, bring a pair of water shoes , it will be more comfortable to explore Riviera’s pebble beaches.

If you want to have a unique experience and see the French Riviera beauty from a different perspective, hop on a boat tour. This 1-Hour Sightseeing Cruise to Villefranche Bay that departs from Nice is amazing!

End your day with a romantic dinner at one of Villefranche’s amazing restaurants like L’Ecailler du Chateau or La Palme d’Or.

Day 5: Menton, French Riviera’s last destination

Last but not least, on your last day on the Riviera, I would recommend taking the train to Menton for a little taste of Italy (if you prefer driving or taking a bus, read this article on how to get from Nice to Menton ). 

Another option is to join a guided tour, this Full Day Tour from Nice to Menton and La Turbie is a good option. You feel like going on a Riviera road trip only enjoying the coastal views and without the hassle of driving.

This beautiful town is located right on the border with Italy and its mix of French and Italian culture can be seen throughout.

Start your day by exploring the old town area, full of colorful buildings and interesting sights. Stop at one of the local markets to pick up fresh fruits or a delicious snack before heading over to see some of Menton’s famous gardens and then head to La Sablette beach for some sunbathing or swimming.

Make sure to end your trip with a picnic on the beach – the perfect way to relax after five amazing days on the French Riviera!

Got more days on the French Riviera?

If you have more days to explore the region, that’s fantastic news because it means you can also visit some other amazing places along the coast like Saint-Tropez , Sainte-Maxime , and San Remo , or even go a little further to Marseille .

Also, it allows you to stay longer in some of the places we covered on this French Riviera itinerary or even repeat your favorite ones.

The possibilities are endless.

Travel Advice:

Don’t forget your Travel Insurance! You don’t want anything to ruin your trip, right? So don’t take the risk! Reliable travel insurance can help you in case of travel issues, from accidents to health problems, travel delays, and lost luggage.

There are many insurances in the market, our picks are  HeyMondo  and  SafetyWing . We used both and always had a good experience. Click on the insurance names to get a quote.

Five days on the French Riviera Wrap Up

And that’s a wrap!

Now you have on your hands an itinerary for five perfect days of exploring the French Riviera. From Cannes to Menton , you will experience some of the best this region has to offer with exquisite cuisine, culture, stunning architecture, and mesmerizing beaches.

I hope you have enjoyed reading my French Riviera itinerary and please let me know if you decide to take it – I would love to hear all about your experience.

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Author: Camila Neves

Camila is a travel blogger based in Nice, a beautiful city in the heart of the French Riviera. She dedicates most of her time to exploring this beautiful region and writing about it on her blog, Explore the Riviera .

2 thoughts on “The perfect French Riviera itinerary – 5 Days of cities and beaches”

Thank you so much for this valuable information. Do you think we will need a travel agent to assist in booking our trip?

Hello Susan,

You can book the hotels, tours and car rental in advance, just click on the names we recommend in the article. Or if you want a travel agent can organize it for you.

Cheers, Rob

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An easy to follow 5 days itinerary to the French Riviera

Last Updated on February 17, 2024 by

Blessed by 300 days of sun yearly, the French Riviera is as glamorous as it looks. Endless stretches of beach, pastel-coloured little towns and that mundane je ne sais quoi that one can feel only while travelling in France. The Côte d’Azur is surely one of the best destinations to visit all year around and this 5 days French riviera itinerary will help you planning your sunny escape!

Table of Contents

Things to know before visiting the French Riviera

The French Riviera has its own micro-climate, which typically brings no less than 300 days of yearly sunshine. Temperatures, even during spring, are generally mild (18°-25°) and this makes South of France the ideal location for spring break holidays in Europe. We visited the Côte d’Azur in April and we’ve been blessed by the most glorious sunshine we could get!

Most cities in the South of France, particularly the ones close to the Italian border, have a strong Italian architectural and culinary influence. This because cities like Nice or Menton were once part of the Italian territorial administration until they became French in 1861.

Getting around the South of France

Getting around the South of France is very easy. Indeed, most cities in the French Riviera are connected by local transport. Trains are particularly efficient and we’ve used them extensively during our trip. The most inland towns like Saint Paul de Vence and Eze, are still well-connected to major hubs like Nice through direct buses.

Distances by public transport

• Nice to Villefranche-sur-Mer – 14 mins by train
• Nice to Antibes – 18 mins by train
• Nice to Monaco – 20 mins – by train
• Nice to Cannes – 30 mins by train
• Nice to Menton – 34 mins – by train
• Nice to Eze – 37 mins by bus
• Nice to Saint Paul de Vence – 45 mins
• Nice to Saint Tropez – 3h by train

5 days French riviera itinerary

Days 1-2 exploring nice.

I am not sure why I never thought of visiting Nice before but this city is really lovely! I was pleasantly surprised about the lively streets, the wide variety of restaurants and the easiness of getting around (even with two strollers!). Nice is the perfect base if you want to explore the French Riviera as it is well connected to other cities like Menton and Monaco.

Nice was our base for the entire holiday but we explored the city for a total of 3 days (2 days in the beginning and 1 at the end). The first two days, gave us a good overview of the city and its main areas. In the last day we focused on the old part of the city called Vieux Nice (see below for this).

What to see in Nice in 2 days

2 or 3 days are the perfect amount of time for visiting Nice. Indeed, the city is small enough to allow visitors a complete visit of the best areas. On our first day, we couldn’t miss a stroll in the famous Promenade des Anglais . Here, we checked off some notable landmarks like the Hotel Negresco , the instagrammable “ I love Nice ” spot and the Palais de la Méditerranée . You can also lunch in one of the cute cafes with sea view and spend the afternoon exploring the ruins of the Castle of Nice and the beautiful panoramic views of the city from Castle Hill (as we did).

We started our day from the colourful Place Massena and admire the iconic Fontaine du Soleil . Nearby, you can also pop a visit to the lovely Jardin Alber 1er of shopping at Galerie Lafayette Nice . To be honest, we also decided to stop for lunch and watch people passing by at Smash Burger & Shake that has some lovely tables on the square. Place Massena is of Avenue Jean Médicin. A place where you can find the best high street shops in Nice.

Day 3 – Take a glamours day trip in Monaco

On our 3rd day, we decided to make our twins checking their 5 country before turning 2. So, we planned a visit to the glamorous Monaco. Whether you are planning to splurge your money at the Casino, Monaco is worth a visit and it’s small enough to be a perfect day trip from Nice.

What to see on a day trip to Monaco

We arrived in Monaco by train. So, we started our visit with a little walk in the hills of the city. Our first stop was, of course, the Casino de Monte-Carlo . This is not the only casino you can find in Monaco but is certainly the most famous. Moreover, if you are a James Bond fan, this place is a must stop! Because we were travelling with the children we decided to look at the casino only from the outside. However, you can enter both for playing or just visiting. You just need to see what’s is required in the website and remember to dress appropriately.

We continued our tour by exploring different gardens of Monaco . Our children loved in particularly the one called Jardin d’acclimatation that is not too far away from the casino. This garden is full of sculptures, plants and animals. Moreover, it’s known for being one of the last royal menageries in the world. It’s very safe for children to go around and has some nice views on the harbour. Other gardens to check are the Exotic Garden and the Japanese Garden.

Our tour continued toward the Port de la Condamine , the historical harbour of Monaco where all the super yachts are located. This place is nice for a relaxing walk and the many eateries on the harbour offer the opportunity to stop for lunch or just an afternoon snack. We ended our day with a walk around exploring some known Formula 1 stretches of the Monaco track, and explored a bit of the city.

Some other places to explore

I have to say that we didn’t plan much our visit to Monaco because we weren’t sure we follow a strict itinerary with the kids. However, I am sure you can add some more interesting stops like Old Monaco , the Oceanographic Museum and the Prince’s Palace.

Getting to Monaco from Nice

Getting to Monaco from Nice is very easy. We personally used the train because it’s the quickest way to get there (and avoid parking in Monaco???). Trains are operated by the SNCF&TER lines and tickets can be as cheap as 6€ A/R. The train takes around 30 mins to reach Monaco. If you are travelling by car it takes around 40 mins to reach Monte Carlo from Nice (21 km). You can go through two different routes. The A87A500 (toll route) or the M6007 that has not tolls and it takes around 52 mins. However, it’s a nice scenic route!

Day 4 – Get lost in the old streets of Menton

Choosing a place to visit in South of France is not easy because there are so many beautiful locations! However, Menton should be on everyone’s list because of its historical value, nice location and colourful architecture! Menton is the last city you will find in the South of France before the border with Italy. Indeed, until 1860 Menton was part of the Italian territory and for this reason it shares much of the Italian northern-style architecture. Menton was for a long time on the list of places I wanted to visit and, after our visit, it became one of my favourite locations of this trip!

A day trip in Menton. What to see

A little premise for when you arrive.

If you arrive by train, you’ll probably be surprised to find your self in a totally stranger part of the city. In fact, you’ll probably expect to see colourful houses and a lovely harbour and instead you’ll find grey houses and trivial city roads. Don’t worry. You are in the right place. In fact, Menton is made of two main parts. The “modern” one (where the station is located) and an old historical part (the one you are searching for!). The historical part is located at about 15-20 mins walk from the train station and the best thing is taking the route from the seaside. so you will enjoy a lovely panorama.

What to see in Menton

The historical centre of Menton still reflect its interesting past and you’ll need just a little walk in its labyrinthine streets to see historical landmarks here and there. If you arrive from the seaside, the Bastion is worth a stop. Nearby, you will see also the Jean Cocteau Museum and the historical Marché des Halles . Following the direction of the promenade, you will soon arrive at the famous Plage des Sablettes . Here you will see the old town towering over the arches of Quai Napoleon and the colourful houses which made Menton famous worldwide.

However, if you want to have a nice picture of the town, you have to walk down the old port. In Fact, the farther you go, the better it gets for a panoramic view of the old city! When you finish with your pictures, take the lift to the Old town and explore the colourful alleys of Menton. Rue Longe is particularly interesting. Indeed, during Roman times Menton used to be an important crossing point in between the cities of Piacenza and Arles. Rue Longe was part of that route and you can still walk it today!

While walking the Old Town don’t forget to climb the colourful Escaliers to the Basilica of Saint Michael Archangel . Look out also for the old engraved portals of Menton. Some of them date back to the fifteenth century! Lastly, don’t forget to grab a lemonade! Indeed, Menton is well known as “the city of Lemon” for its historical production of lemon in the region and for the famous  Fête du Citron (Lemon Festival). During this unique celebration, you can see shows and colourful parade with sculptures entirely made of lemons. Surely something not to miss!

Getting to Menton from Nice

Like Monaco, also Menton is an easy place to reach by train and car. The train from Nice takes less than 40 mins and cost around 5€ (one way). If you are travelling by car, the quickest way is taking the A8 (toll road). This is just a 35 mins driving.

Day 5 – Get the best of Vieux Nice

On our last day in Nice we had a little doubt. Would it be better to explore a new city in the French Riviera or have a third day in Nice focusing just in one area? Our two previous days in Nice were satisfying but there were things we couldn’t do for reason of time, like going at the Flower Market or getting lost in the little alleys of Old Nice. That’s why we decided to spend a third day in Nice focusing only on Vieux Nice. Of course, we were pretty slow and relaxed because of the children. So, if you already visited Vieux Nice and want to do something else, you can visit other nearby cities like Villefranche-sur-Mer or Eze.

What to do in Vieux Nice

We started the morning early with a walk at the Promenade des Anglais. From here, we reached Cours Saleya for its famous Marché Aux Fleurs . This is open every day (except Monday) from 6.30 am to 6 pm. But flowers are not the only things you can try. Indeed, there are fresh fruits stalls, local products and fresh baked pastries and souvenirs. Prices can be quite expensive depending what you buy. We paid 6€ for a small basket with strawberries and red berries. If you go on a Monday, the Marché Aux Fleurs become Marché à la Brocante Saleya. Indeed, instead of flowers and fresh products you will find antiques and and vintage objects.

Vieux Nice is famous for its narrow colourful streets. We spent part of the morning going around and getting lost between vintage shops and smell of freshly baked bread. Indeed, on the ground floor of most of the old houses of Vieux Nice you will find wineries, bakeries, small restaurants and even unexpected lovely shops. This is the perfect time to try a typical Nicoise dish, the Socca ! This tasteful chickpea pancake, similar to the Italian “farinata” or “cecina”, can be found all over the alleys of Old Street. Our favourite place was Chez Thérésa.

Something you can certainly miss while touring Old Nice is eating outdoor in one of the numerous bakeries/bar and see the life passing by. We grabbed our lunch at the Boulangerie Jeannot and it was delicious. Just in front of the bakery, you can find also Maison Auer, a historical chocolaterie and confiserie producing candies and chocolate since 1820. If you have still time, don’t miss a visit to the Cathedral of St. Reparata and the Place Rossetti as well as the historical Lascaris Palace.

Where to Stay in the South of France

We found the perfect accommodation for exploring Nice at La Malmaison Nice Boutique Hotel. This lovely hotel is located in a central position, closer to both Promenade des Anglais and at 10/15 mins walk from Old Nice. The rooms are spacious and lovely decorated in Art Nouveau Style. The balconies with a view on the city makes it perfect for both families and couple. We loved the breakfast with its wide selection of fresh products (the French pastries were absolutely delicious!) and lovely intimate setting. If you want to know more about our experience at La Malmaison, you can read the full blog here.

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This brings back so many memories. I had an incredible holiday in this part of France when my son was a toddler. We based ourselves in St Rapheal and travelled around, I think he developed his love for sports cars in Monaco!

Great post! I love love loooove this part of France! There is something so gorgeous about those narrow streets that lead you down to incredible coastlines. The food is calling to me too! <3

I have never been to Monaco, but it looks like I would looove it!

Visiting the French Riviera is a dream holiday for me! Thanks for the inspiration & tip!

I’ve been to the French Riviera a few years ago but I would love to go back! Fantastic itinerary, thank you so much for sharing it! 🙂

The French Riviera is on my short list of places to visit. The seaside along Menton and the pastel buildings look fabulous. This is definitely a place I would love to explore.

Would absolutely love spend more time in French Riviera. Hopefully soon. Thanks for the inspiration

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The Ultimate 10 Day French Riviera Road Trip Itinerary

Summoning the French Riviera mind brings images of sun-kissed beaches and glitzy harbor towns where fresh fish is always the dish of the day and the sun is always beaming. That really is exactly what you’re going to get when you travel to the dreamiest part of Southern France!

Taking a French Riviera road trip is a wonderful way to immerse yourself in the natural beauty and culture that each of these towns and villages offers. Read on to learn how to see the best of the French Riviera in 10 days as part of a road trip.

* Disclosure: This post contains a few affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through my link. *

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Table of Contents

Useful Info for Your French Riviera Road Trip

How to get to the french riviera .

You can start your 10 days in the French Riviera by flying to either Nice or Marseille. As the two largest cities each with an international airport, these are the easiest to access from within France, other European cities, and global destinations. 

Nice is served by Nice Côte d’Azur Airport (NCE) while Marseille is served by Marseille Provence Airport (MRS). Low-cost carriers connect to either so you can weigh up which is most convenient for you.

Best time to visit the French Riviera 

The French Riviera benefits from a balmy Mediterranean climate which means that it’s a pleasant destination whatever time you plan your French Riviera trip. 

July and August is the high season in the French Riviera which does mean crowded cities and attractions and baking hot temperatures, with highs of 30℃ (86℉).

This isn’t ideal for everyone so do consider booking your trip during the shoulder season of either mid-April to mid-May or September-October for fewer crowds but pleasant temperatures still upwards of 20°C (68F).

If you want to see the French Riviera in 10 days during winter then you will benefit from agreeable temperatures that seldom drop to single figures. The only thing to bear in mind is that the water temperature isn’t as comfortable for swimming during the cooler months of November-March.

That being said, the French Riviera is still one of the best winter sun destinations in Europe !

Where to stay in the French Riviera 

In terms of where to stay during your French Riviera road trip, you will only need to book accommodation in two cities. While you could technically stay in another town or city each night, I wouldn’t recommend this.

Most places on this French Riviera road trip are easily accessible from either Nice or Marseille as day trips so I suggest choosing these 2 cities as your base. If you follow this French Riviera itinerary, you’ll need to book 6 nights in Nice and 4 nights in Marseille.

Save time and book one of these top-rated hotels in the French Riviera!

Where to stay in Marseille

LUXURY – Hotel C2

This 5-star luxury hotel is housed within a converted 19th-century private mansion and contains a spa with a small indoor pool. The most decadent rooms include a private terrace and a view of the basilica.

MID-RANGE – Hôtel Maison Saint Louis – Vieux Port

Set in a peaceful street in the district of Noailles, the hotel is tastefully decorated in a contemporary style. Superior rooms are equipped with charming balconies that provide a city view. 

BUDGET – Hôtel Hermès

Located a hop, a skip, and a jump from Vieux Port, this hotel boasts a rooftop terrace with panoramic views of the harbor and the city. Modern rooms are equipped with a private bathroom and all the essential amenities. 

Where to stay in Nice

LUXURY – Hotel Le Negresco

The famous Hotel Negresco, dating from the beginning of the 20th century, overlooks the beach and the Promenade des Anglais in Nice. From Louis XIII style to modern art, 5 centuries of history are exhibited throughout the hotel. Free Wifi access is provided and there is an on-site fitness center.

MID-RANGE – NH Nice

Featuring a seasonal rooftop swimming pool, sauna, and terrace, NH Nice is a hotel located a 10-minute walk from Nice’s Old Town and the Port. It offers free WiFi and is next to Nice Acropolis. Rooms at NH Nice are contemporary in style and offer a flat-screen TV and a mini-bar.

BUDGET – easyHotel Nice Palais des Congrès – Old Town

EasyHotel Nice Palais des Congrès – Old Town is a budget hotel located beside the Acropolis Palais des Congrès. Featuring parquet flooring, the air-conditioned rooms all have free WiFi, an LCD TV, and a desk. The private bathrooms include free toiletries.

Tips for driving in the French Riviera

When planning your French Riviera road trip, don’t forget to check the local driving rules. Here are some quick tips to help you prepare:

• If you’re coming from overseas, you will need to carry your driving license from your home country as well as an International Driver’s Permit (IDP) while driving in the French Riviera. If your driving license was issued by one of the member states of the European Economic Area, you will not need the IDP as your license is valid in France.
• If you do visit during the peak season (or a festival), the roads will be busier and parking less available. Plan to leave as early as possible on these days to beat the traffic and nab a parking spot. 
• When driving in the French Riviera you need to prepare for narrow roads that wind their way along cliff sides. If you are a less confident driver you should always drive in daylight, take it slowly and avoid overtaking other vehicles.
• When booking accommodation make sure that the hotel provides parking and check whether you need to reserve it in advance or pay extra to secure a spot. Parking in the French Riviera is hard to come by, especially in the peak season.

Overview of Your French Riviera Road Trip Itinerary 

You can book 6 nights of accommodation in Nice from where you will take day trips to Monaco, Menton, Èze and Villefranche-sur-Mer (split over a morning and afternoon), and Cannes.

On the 7th day, you will check out of your Nice hotel and pop into Saint-Tropez on your way to Marseille. Once in Marseille, you can check into your second hotel for the final 4 nights. 

Breakdown for how to see the French Riviera in 10 days

• Nice : 2 days
• Monaco : 1 day
• Menton : 1 day
• Éze : Half day
• Villefranche-sur-Mer : Half day
• Cannes : 1 day
• St. Tropez : 1 day
• Cassis : 1 day
• Marseille : 2 days

You can choose whether you start in Nice and end in Marseille or go in reverse. This French Riviera itinerary works either way!

Map for your French Riviera road trip

Below you can find a customized map that includes all the locations you’re going to visit on this French Riviera road trip itinerary. I marked the different parts of the road trip with different colors so you can easily see which places you’re going to visit each day.

If you open up this post on your phone and you click on the bracket in the upper right corner of the map, it will automatically save this map to your Google Maps app so you can always have it with you. Super convenient, right?

The Ultimate French Riviera Road Trip Itinerary for 10 Days

Nice (2 days).

Nice is both the capital of the French Riviera and one of the most popular cities in the region. The seaside resort is located in the southwest of France and is known for its pastel-hued 19th-century architecture, leafy boulevards, and ocean views.

The year-round sunshine means that whenever you visit, the streets will swarm with energy and the beaches will always appeal. You can easily spend your 2 days wandering around and admiring the city, but here are some essentials for your Nice itinerary .

Best things to do in Nice

The Old Town of Nice is a rabbit warren of narrow cobblestone streets where you can wander at will. Notable sights include Nice Cathedral, Place Garibaldi, and Cours Saleya where you will see fresh flowers and local produce on sale.

Discover the neighborhood as you like or join a walking tour if you want to learn more about the history.

Nice Castle

The castle that once stood here is long gone but you can still climb up to the top of the hill for one of the best viewpoints in Nice. There is a refreshing waterfall which you’ll appreciate on a hot day and the views are out of this world.

Musée Matisse

A palatial villa devoted to showcasing the worlds of Henri Mattise. From 1917 onwards, Matisse spent most of his winters living in Nice and many of the paintings exhibited were painted in the city. 

Beaches of Nice

Nice is flanked by a number of beaches that work their way from Old Nice westwards along the Promenade des Anglais. Take some time during your French Riviera trip to go for a dip, catch some rays and enjoy a beachside cocktail. 

St. Nicholas Russian Orthodox Cathedral

The largest Eastern Orthodox cathedral in Western Europe, this majestic cathedral is the property of the Russian Federation. It was constructed out of Tsar Alexander II’s love of the French Riviera and meant as a place of worship for the Russian community of Nice.  

Place Masséna

The largest public square in Nice impresses with its mid-19th-century buildings and the stylish tiled pavement. This might be the most beautiful part of the city. 

Promenade des Anglais

Providing 7 km (4.3 miles) of sea views, this promenade connects the airport with Nice Castle. It’s a lovely walk, especially first thing or around dusk when it’s a little cooler. 

Where to eat in Nice

• Ruhl Plage : Food, drinks, and service are exemplary as are the ocean views at this swanky beachside restaurant and bar. 
• Bistrot d’Antoine : A refined menu of French cuisine with an expansive wine list in the beating heart of Old Nice.
• Néron Glacier Patissier : All that walking around Old Nice calls for a sugar fix in the form of artisanal ice cream and freshly baked pastries. 
• HOBO Coffee : As cute as a button, this is an appealing spot to grab an iced coffee. They also offer nut milks which are tricky to come by in France. 

Monaco (1 Day)

Driving time: 45-60 minutes (21 km/13 miles) from Nice to Monaco

Synonymous with glamour, Monaco is one of the most affluent places you will encounter on your French Riviera trip. Headed by the Prince of Monaco, the principality isn’t technically part of France but rather it’s the second smallest country in the world, second only to Vatican City.

Although its flamboyant facade attracts the rich and the famous, beneath it all Monaco is still a unique place to explore. Due to its tiny size, one day in Monaco is truly all you need to discover this luxurious country!

Best things to do in Monaco

Port hercule.

Grab an ice cream and cruise Port Hercule on foot for the chance to gawp at mega yachts. If you’re on a relaxed budget, you might even want to book a private boat cruise to get a slice of the high life. 

Palais du Prince

When the prince is out of town, the Palais du Prince lowers the flag and opens its doors to tourists. A former 13th-century fortress, the palace contains art galleries, a chapel, and an elaborate Throne Room.

Monte Carlo Casino

The Beaux-Arts-style casino was constructed in the late 19th century and has since risen to fame as a movie location for James Bond and Ocean’s Twelve. Even if you don’t fancy risking your French Riviera road trip budget, it’s worth taking a visit to experience its architectural beauty. 

Jardin Exotique de Monaco

This cliffside garden provides splendid coastal views and is a lush oasis of botanics and cacti. There is also a cave to explore that contains stalactites and stalagmites.

Saint Nicholas Cathedral

This alabaster white cathedral was erected in the 19th century and serves as a place of worship as well as a mausoleum to the previous princes of Monaco.

Musée Océanographique de Monaco

For a small place, Monaco is packed with museums. If you can make space for one museum in your French Riviera itinerary, make it this one. It’s an aquarium with a natural history museum and planetarium, housing over 6,000 marine species.

Where to eat in Monaco

• Huit & Demi : Dine on fresh seafood or a fusion of French and Italian plates at this al fresco eatery near the harbor. 
• Chez Edgar : An affordable menu that provides light breakfasts and pastries through to hearty mains. 
• Eola : Eola stands for ‘Eat Organic Live Active’, and as the name suggests, you can find all kinds of healthy dishes here like smoothie bowls, green juices and avocado toasts.

Menton (1 Day)

Driving time: 1 hour (31 km/20 miles) from Nice to Menton

Menton is the final major city in the Côte d’Azur before you reach the Italian border. As one of the most beautiful towns in France , it’s a delight to simply wander the streets admiring the architecture and soaking up the laid-back atmosphere and coastal views.

It has a more languid vibe than Nice and Monaco, which is exactly what you need on the 4th day of your French Riviera road trip.

The other thing that Menton is known for is its world-class production of lemons. Shops sell everything from lemon-scented soaps to lemon preserves and lemon liqueurs.

Menton is quite small so you can easily discover it in only one day, which makes it one of the best day trips from Nice .

Best things to do in Menton

The Old Town of Menton is located right next to the port. Sights to check out include the Basilica of Saint Michael Archangel and the Musée du Bastion from which you get a phenomenal view.

Jean Cocteau Museum (Only The Bastion Jean Cocteau museum is open)

A startling juxtaposition against the Old Town, this contemporary museum houses the works of Jean Cocteau, a French poet, artist, writer, and filmmaker. Most of what you see exhibited are from the collection of the businessman, Séverin Wunderman. 

Promenade du Soleil

Soak up the natural vitamin D by wandering the 2 km (1.2 miles) of the Promenade du Soleil. Along the way, you can stop to admire the other sights on this list or take a dip in the bathtub warm water. 

Maison Herbin

In a town noted for its lemon produce, Maison Herbin is fully stocked with lemon jams and preserves which will be perfect souvenirs from your 10 days in the French Riviera.

Val Rahmeh-Menton Botanical Garden

Showcasing plants from Asia and South America as well as tropical fruit trees, this 19th-century botanical garden brings an offbeat touch of paradise to the beautiful French Riviera. 

Jardins Biovès

If you plan your French Riviera trip during February then you might experience the annual Fête du Citron which transforms Menton into a party town!

The manicured Jardins Biovès is the setting for some creative sculptures using lemons during this time. If you visit at another time of year, the gardens are still a joy to explore. 

Russian Orthodox Church

Located on the outskirts of Menton, you can stop at the Russian Orthodox as you approach the city. It features an iconic cobalt blue dome while the interiors house an iconostasis made of Carrara marble. 

Where to eat in Menton

• Le Petit Port : Famed for its seafood, this portside restaurant also excels in meat dishes and dessert. 
• Fleur de Sel : This cozy creperie provides a wide selection of savory and sweet crepes ranging from seafood to Nutella and ice cream.
• Cote Sud : Located right by the sea, this top-rated restaurant offers a traditional cuisine with a strong Mediterranean inspiration and French references. I’m still dreaming about their spaghetti with burrata!

Èze (Half Day)

Driving time: 30 minutes (12.5 km/8 miles) from Nice to Èze

Èze is a hilltop village that provides views of the Mediterranean Sea that will make your heart sing. Dating back to the Middle Ages, you can lose yourself among the cobblestone streets and stone houses.

I recommend spending only half a day of your French Riviera road trip in Èze because that’s all you need to see this pocket-size gem of a village.

Best things to do in Èze

Nietzsche path.

To make the most of the enchanting views that Èze offers, you can park in the hilltop village then tackle the Nietzsche Path (Le Chemin de Nietzsche). This 2 km (1.2 miles) hike connects the highest point in the village with the beach.

It’s fairly rugged and steep in places so remember to pack sturdy footwear for your French Riviera trip and bring plenty of water. Of course, you could always have a taxi return you to your car if you prefer. 

Le Jardin Exotique

The botanical gardens of Èze are located at the top of the hill and are your reward once you’ve tackled the hike. Lush green foliage, shrubs, plants, and cacti tumble down the cliffs and provide astounding views, it’s definitely a moment for photographers to shine. 

Èze Beach

Cool off by dipping a toe in the water of Èze Beach before weaving your way back up to the hilltop village where your car will be waiting for you.

Where to eat in Éze

• Deli : Tucked away beneath the rampant vines, Deli offers shade and super fresh salads and sandwiches. They specialize in olive oils which are a cool memento from your 10 days in the French Riviera. 
• Le Chevre d’Or : This Michelin starred restaurant is connected to the luxury hilltop hotel. On the same complex, you can find a more casual garden cafe as well as a bar. All offer sensational views.

Villefranche-sur-Mer (Half Day)

Driving time: 25-30 minutes (11.5 km/7 miles) from Èze to Villefranche-sur-Mer

Villefranche is a quaint harbor town that’s known for its tangerine-colored buildings with their teal window shutters. This town is larger and more spread out than Èze so you’ll be in and out of your car to see the sights listed below, the first of which are located on the Cap-Ferrat peninsula.

Best things to do in Villefranche-sur-Mer 

Villa ephrussi de rothschild.

This salmon-pink seaside villa set within a series of themed gardens is located just outside of Villefranche. Both the gardens and interiors are open to the public so you can peek into how the upper classes lived in the 20th century. If you skipped lunch, there is also a splendid tea room on site.

Paloma Beach

This peninsular beach is a short drive from the villa and provides a sweeping view across the bay towards Èze and Monaca. It’s fairly pricey to rent a sun lounger and as time is short, consider this a quick stop for the view. 

Plage Villefranche-sur-Mer

Another viewpoint, this is the main beach of Villefranche which is situated across the bay from the town and provides a fantastic view of the town. The water is perfect for swimming so you might want to enjoy a quick dip before you drive into the town itself.

Villefranche Old Town

Following a theme here, a roam around the Old Town of Villefranche is the main thing you’ll want to do once in town. Among the rainbow of pastel buildings, you’ll find a couple of churches that you can pop into. Head towards Chapelle Sainte-Elisabeth for a panorama of the town.

Rue Obscure

Add something a tad darker to your French Riviera road trip with this hidden underground passageway that dates back to medieval times. Originally it was constructed for military purposes but it was also used as a wine cellar. 

Citadelle Saint Elme

Formerly a 16th-century fortress, this citadel has since been repurposed as the Town Hall and cultural space. You can explore the premises and gardens for free and get wonderful views.  

Where to eat in Villefranche-sur-Mer 

• Abacaxi Glacier : Pick up an afternoon treat in the form of ice cream, waffles or pancakes and enjoy the view. 
• Mayssa Beach : This luxurious restaurant is positioned to take full advantage of the scenery while you tuck into seafood and Mediterranean bites. 
• Le Mékong : Take a break from European cuisine and treat your tastebuds to some authentic Vietnamese. Affordable prices and there’s a variety of vegetarian options available. 

Cannes (1 Day)

Driving time: 40 minutes (34 km/21 miles) from Nice to Cannes

Movie stars, movie festivals, and movie set-worthy sites, Cannes is preceded by its glitzy reputation. Once a year, usually during the spring, the city lays out the red carpet and hosts the Cannes Film Festival which celebrates independent filmmaking from around the globe.

September sees the crowds descend again, this time for the Cannes Yachting Festival. This city is a magnet for major events and the elite! Cannes also features gorgeous historic architecture, golden sandy beaches, and luminous water which makes it an unmissable part of any French Riviera itinerary.

Best things to do in Cannes

Boulevard de la croisette.

This 2 km (1.2 miles) promenade spans the coastline of Cannes and is sprinkled with eateries, bars, and boutiques. Walk the entire life of it to get the lay of the land and find your bearings in this upscale resort town.

Palais des Festival

The convention center that hosts the film festival is positioned on the western end of the Boulevard de la Croisette. Outside of the film festival, you’re not so likely to see many famous faces but it’s still cool to wander around the iconic complex.

You can visit the Cannes Walk of Fame and find out which celebrities have the same size hand as you. 

La Croix-des-Gardes

Mix up the magic of the harbor with the charm of the affluent villas constructed on the hilltop village of La Croix-des-Gardes. The nature park offers short and easy walking trails where you can breathe in the scents of mimosa blossoms while peering down on the city. 

Le Vieux Port

The Old Port of Cannes was constructed in the heyday of the 1950s and fuses glamour with tradition seamlessly. Take a stroll along the marina, admire the yachts and flex your photography skills. 

Bay of Cannes

Live out your fantasy of sailing, swimming, and snorkeling in the crystalline waters of the Bay of Cannes and book a half-day catamaran cruise . This will take up the majority of your one day in Cannes, but for boat enthusiasts, it’s a match made in heaven.

The medieval streets of Le Suquet were built over a Roman settlement and it’s the oldest part of Cannes. The Musée de la Castre houses ancient artifacts and a collection of Riviera landscapes and provides a vantage point over the tumble of winding alleyways that form the historic neighborhood.

You can also pay a visit to Notre Dame d’Esperance, distinguishable by its bell tower. 

Île Sainte-Marguerite

Located a half a mile offshore, regular ferries connect Cannes to this island of eucalyptus forest, beaches and rock pools. The connection takes 15 minutes each way and as the island is only 3 km (1.9 miles) in length is it possible to squeeze in a brief visit. 

Where to eat in Cannes

• Welcome to Key West : A great spot for breakfast or light lunch in a cute setting. Or, grab a specialty coffee or bubble tea to go.
• L’Assiette Provençale : One of the waterfront restaurants with reasonable prices, especially when you order from the menu fixe. Quality food is presented artistically and the lemon meringue isn’t to be missed. 
• Nova Social Food (temporarily closed, expected to reopen: April 2023): A vegetarian/vegan restaurant that presents plant based equivalents of classic meat dishes in a stylish setting.  

Saint-Tropez (1 Day)

Driving time: 2 hours (112 km/70 miles) from Nice to Saint-Tropez, then 2 hours (135 km/84 miles) from Saint-Tropez to Marseille

Drive time to Saint-Tropez from Nice typically takes 2 hours, unless you take the slightly longer coastal option. You will stop here en route to Marseille where you will have booked accommodation for the final 4 nights of your French Riviera itinerary.

The drive from Saint-Tropez to Marseille takes a further 2 hours. 

Alongside Cannes and Monaco, Saint-Tropez is another contender for the most luxurious city in the French Riviera. The town itself is a fairly compact town with a handful of fascinating landmarks, museums, and heritage spots.

If you want to update your wardrobe then there is an ample selection of designer boutiques in the center that rival those in Cannes. The town is surrounded by sun-dappled beaches turquoise swimming coves and the surprisingly rugged hinterland that protrudes to the east. 

Best things to do in Saint-Tropez

Citadel of saint-tropez.

This 17th-century fortress sits atop the town and provides fantastic views once you’ve hiked your way to the summit. It houses the Museum of Maritime History and gleans insight into the lifestyle of fishermen.

Port de Saint-Tropez

The iconic port is teeming with bobbing yachts and sailboats and has a lovely ambiance. Take some time to roam the harbor on foot and swing by the little boutiques and cafes.

Annonciade Museum

This converted chapel houses paintings from esteemed artists who lived in Saint-Tropez and captured its personality through their work. Although modest, the artwork on display is priceless. According to their official website the museum is closed from 15th January to 10th February, and from 15th November to 30th November.

Marché De St Tropez

Every Tuesday and Saturday morning, Avenue Augustin Grangeon erupts into an open-air market where you can stockpile French pantry staples. Pastries, charcuterie, fish, and artisanal preserves are sold alongside clothing, jewelry, and trinkets.

Stock up for the last few days of your French Riviera road trip if your visit coincides. 

Sentier du Littoral Saint-Tropez

This short cliffside hiking trail is usually fairly quiet and affords a spectacular view of the untouched coast moments from the city.

Where to eat in Saint-Tropez

• Chez Jean Robert (temporarily closed) : Gourmet cuisine from a locally renowned chef in a refined setting that nods back to bygone decades. The taste of the food lives up to its presentation. 
• Le Petit Pointu : A cozy seafood restaurant with a lovely outdoor seating area down a side street. Heavily geared towards fish and meat, there is a small menu for vegans too and the prices are fairer than elsewhere. 

Cassis (1 Day)

Driving time: 40 minutes (27 km/17 miles) from Marseille to Cassis

Cassis is a typical Provençal coastal village that comprises the trademark pastel-painted buildings that you’ll know all too well at this stage of your French Riviera road trip. There is a lot of historic architecture to feast your eyes upon over catch of the day and the town feels very chill after spending a few days in its flashy sister towns.

Beyond the port of Cassis, you’ll discover a tapestry of hillside vineyards that produce Cassis white wine. But the star of the show are the dramatic Calanques that frame the town.

These are slender inlets edged by plunging limestone coastal cliffs that some consider the French Riviera’s equivalent to Ha Long Bay. 

Best things to do in Cassis

Calanques national park.

The park is nestled between Marseille and Cassis so you will savor the scenery from behind the wheel. Calanque de Port Pin and Calanque de Port-Miou are two of the most accessible viewpoints that you can view from the parking lot.

If you have longer than 10 days in the French Riviera then you might want to add one of the hiking trails to your itinerary although for a day trip this might feel too tight.

Cruise the calanques

Now for the chance to get a close-up at the mighty Calanques, you want to hop aboard a sailing vessel from Cassis Harbor. There are plenty of providers waiting to whisk you away to sea, but Visit of Creeks comes highly recommended!

Calanques sea kayaking

For an even more ‘oarsome’ time, sea kayaks are available from Calanque de Port-Miou and Cassis Harbor. Both Destination Calanques and Lo’Kayak offer kayak rentals and guided tours that navigate you through these natural wonders. 

Cap Canaille

Hop back in your car and follow Route des Crêtes to the headland south of Cassis. Cap Canaille is the tallest coastal cliff in the whole of Europe. If you want to see the best of the French Riviera in 10 days this is a sight not to skip. 

Cassis wine

Grab a bottle of Cassis wine to enjoy back at your hotel. Clos Sainte-Magdeleine and Domaine du Bagnol are the most convenient vineyards where you can take a cellar tour, sample the goods and choose your favorite tipple.

Cassis Town

Once you’ve exhausted yourself with the wines and waters of Cassis, remember to tour the town itself. Note the 13th-century fortress that looms above town, which is now reimagined as a guesthouse.

If time permits, you may want to swing by the Musée d’Art et Traditions Populaires de Cassis and buff up your local history. 

Where to eat in Cassis

• Le Patio : A harbor side eatery that specializes in seafood and lip smacking desserts. 
• Grain de Folie : An adorable independent cafe where you can grab coffee, sorbet or cold drinks in a warm environment. 
• L’Artisan Glacier : After a morning of kayaking (or exhausting your arm by taking photos) you’ve earned at least two scoops. 

Marseille (2 Days)

Although Nice claims the title capital of the French Riviera, Marseille is in fact the largest city in the region and the second-largest in the whole of France.

Dating back to circa 600 BC when Greek sailors founded the city, Marseille is also the oldest city in France. It swiftly rose to become a major trading port which has remained part of the modern-day identity of the city. 

Considering its size and heritage, no doubt you’ve already figured out that Marseille is rammed with things to see and do.

Best things to do in Marseille 

Old port of marseille.

As the most happening and one of the most picturesque parts of the city, you’ll want to spend some time pottering around the Old Port of Marseille.

Take in some of the oldest buildings in France, nosey at the jiggling boats and crane your neck at the mighty churches that border the neighborhood, such as Cathédrale La Major.

Château d’If

Located 1.5 km (0.9 miles) off the coast, Château d’If is a former prison atop a small island. It was the most feared jail in France during the 16-19th centuries and reserved for the very worst criminals. You can ride the ferry across to the island (20 minutes each way) and see the ruins for yourself.  

Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde

The very symbol of Marseille, this catholic church was constructed in the mid-late 19th century atop the foundations of an ancient fort. It’s a steep walk up to the church so you might want to hop on a local bus and then walk back down to town while savoring the views. 

Constructed in commemoration of Marseille’s nomination as the European City of Culture in 2013, MuCEM stands for Museum of Civilizations of Europe and the Mediterranean. It’s a fantastic spot to gain an understanding of continental culture, traditions, and history. 

Palais Longchamp

This prestigious monument is set within a spacious garden that’s populated by sculpted animals and a huge fountain. Alongside the monument and botanical gardens, you will find the Museum of Fine Arts and Natural History Museum.

Friche Belle de Mai

A former tobacco factory, the Friche Belle de Mai is now a cultural center that brings together exhibitions, performance art, concerts, and rooftop cinema screenings. It’s worth checking out what’s on or rocking up to immerse yourself in contemporary French Riviera culture. 

Sunset sailing

As Marseille concludes your French Riviera itinerary, you might want to indulge yourself and spend your last night enjoying a sunset boat cruise with dinner and drinks on board. 

Where to eat in Marseille

• Restaurant l’Inattendu : A casual setting with a boutique menu using seasonal produce. The menu fixe is economical and the food will fill your tummy for hours. 
• Restaurant le Relais 50 : Upscale French-Mediterranean dishes with ample terrace seating and interiors that evoke the spirit of the 1950s.
• Ca Phe S : Relaxed interiors where you can try Vietnamese specialty coffee including egg coffee and iced coconut coffee. 
• Café Populaire : Whether you come for brunch or an evening cocktail with tasty tapas, you’ll see that there’s a reason this place got its name. 

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5 Unforgettable Days on the French Riviera

A fabled playground of jazz age giants like f. scott fitzgerald, the french riviera is an iconic honeymoon destination, celebrity hangout, coastal getaway, and place to “see and be seen”, wrapping its way down a breathtaking coastline and, cheesily enough, into our hearts., as fitzgerald said himself in a letter to ernest hemingway:, “with our being back in a nice villa on my beloved riviera… i’m happier than i’ve been for years. it’s one of those strange, precious, and all too transitory moments when everything in one’s life seems to be going well.”.

Indeed, the Côte d’Azur instantly cemented itself as a “must-visit” place for us. Honestly, it happens pretty rarely that both of us feel so strongly about a place that we upgrade it to being somewhere everyone should go before they die, but the Côte d’Azur is firmly there. 

While places like Cannes and Monaco are well-known for cinephiles, F1 fans, or celebrity-chasers, we fell head-over-heels in love with the smaller, quieter towns like Èze, Cap-Ferrat, and Antibes . 

Whether strolling the winding streets, swimming in crystalline waters, or relaxing with an Aperol Spritz under a big umbrella (or a croissant, fresh from the oven… whatever floats your boat!) it’s impossible to have anything other than a fabulous time here.

For a bit of background, after some flight cancellation woes left us with easyJet credits, we were scouring Google Flights for a place to have a little summertime honeymoon . 

Nice was by far the best option for us timing-wise, but we hesitated to visit during peak season. If you know us, you know we have made shoulder season travel a key focus of this blog, and we usually stick to that for a reason. 

Heat, crowds, lodging availability… all signs pointed to July in the South of France being a risky choice for our preferred style of travel. 

Relatedly, we have to confess that we were pretty concerned that the French Riviera would be overrated. While we’d be lying if we didn’t say that some places are, resoundingly, not ones we would go back to (hot take: Cannes is overrated), we can’t overstate how much we adored the Côte d’Azur as a whole.

I t’s absolutely, jaw-droppingly, breathtakingly gorgeous, for starters. If we hadn’t been there ourselves, we would have thought it was a green-screen for a movie set. 

It’s effortlessly relaxing, despite soaring temperatures. , locals are kind and friendly, everyone greets you with a “bonjour” on the street, and the food is so fresh you expect it to walk right off your plate. , all in all, even during peak season in july, we had the time of our lives., we urge you to plan a trip to the riviera at some point– it’s one of our favorite places that we’ve visited together, and one that we can’t wait to go back to. , we’ve put together a  5-day itinerary  for you below, including some  general tips, a “power-ranking” of towns, and some of our best photo spots., getting there and general information.

Table of Contents

The main airport on the French Riviera is Nice-Côte d’Azur International Airport , servicing a surprisingly large swath of Europe and Africa daily. The airport is bigger than you may expect, and so is Nice– it’s actually the 5th-biggest city in France. 

That brings us to our first tip: Keep in mind that the relaxing Riviera vibes don’t necessarily begin right when you land.  

Nice is a big city, with a big city pace and lifestyle. While the Vielle Ville is charming, if relaxation is what you’re after you may not want to spend too much time in Nice, instead prioritizing the next towns on our list. 

However, that said, Nice is a fantastic jumping-off point for the region , with loads of bus and train connections to the rest of the Riviera (similar to the city of Como in Lake Como .) We stayed by the Nice-Riquier SNCF station, which was a total godsend for regional travel.

Right upon exiting the airport, there is a red tram called the T2 that you can take to the city center. It takes about half an hour and drops you off right in the center of Nice, at an underground stop called Jean-Medecin. 

• If you’re staying in Nice, you can go up the stairs and transfer at the street level to trams to other parts of town. 
• If you’re immediately headed elsewhere, it’s a short walk to Nice-Ville, the closest SNCF station. Here, you can buy tickets anywhere serviced by the SNCF. 

Broadly, one of our favorite things about the whole Côte d’Azur is the super well-developed and interconnected transit system.  

• All local buses and trams cost 1.50€ per ride, and it’s easy to buy a ticket at each stop. Just remember to validate it when you enter. 
• The SNCF is similarly easy– just enter your starting and ending stations at the kiosk and the date, and it prints out tickets for you. If you have data, you can download their app instead, called SNCF Connect . 

This leads us to our second tip: you absolutely do not need a car here.  

There was only one place that we had planned to visit that wasn’t immediately available via train or bus, a little town called Saint-Paul-de-Vence. In the end we decided to forgo visiting, because to us, nothing makes a trip less relaxing than having to rent a car! Especially given the quality, frequency, and ease of the train system, it just didn’t seem necessary. 

Note, however, that if you have your heart set on seeing Saint-Tropez, a car may be necessary. 

As an added bonus, the trains were clean, spacious, and, most importantly… air-conditioned. Sometimes we wanted to get on simply to cool down a bit! 

One last tip: if you know where you’re going the next day, consider buying your ticket in advance at the kiosk.  

In the morning, the lines for the kiosks were often super long, not helped by the fact that the machines would often overheat in the sun and stop working. Some trains only come every half-hour, and we don’t have to tell you that it’s the worst feeling to watch your train leave while you wait in line for a ticket. 

5 Days in Côte d’Azur | Itinerary

If you take a peek at a map, you may be surprised to see how close together everything is . Whether your home base is in Nice, Antibes, or Cannes, everything else is fairly close by. 

This means that a fair amount of mixing-and-matching is possible, and feel free to do so with this itinerary! We paired things this way because of proximity and the amount of time you’ll likely want to spend in each place, but one of the best things about the Côte d’Azur is how easy it is to be flexible.

That said, here’s what we recommend:

Day 1: Monaco and Menton

Day 2: antibes and juan-les-pins, day 3: èze and èze-sur-mer, day 4: beaulieu-sur-mer, cap-ferrat, and nice, day 5: grasse and cannes.

Note that if you’re staying in Nice, we recommend slotting it in anytime you have a free few hours, or visiting a different part each evening when the temperatures go down or you’re out seeking a bite to eat. For us, that was on Day 4.

Alternatively, if you’d rather start with a list of towns and go from there, check out our post on  11 Top Towns on the French Riviera   to visit . It’s more skimmable than this one, with highlights of each place along with our power-ranking– our personal favorites and tips.

Monaco has long been a hotspot for “the high life”, with gambling, car-racing, fashion, and related activities galore. 

• Despite being totally surrounded by France, it’s a sovereign entity, ruled by the same family (the house of Grimaldi) since 1297. 
• Perhaps its most notable ruling member, Prince Rainier III, married American actress Grace Kelly in 1956, a swoony, real-life fairytale that ended in tragedy when she died in a car accident in 1982. 
• Their son, Albert, is on the throne today.

You will likely only need a half-day here , as there aren’t a ton of things to see, unless you’d like to do some gambling. Monaco is the most densely-populated place in the world– something you will no doubt notice as you walk around, and it’s super compact and walkable. 

It’s only about 20 minutes from Nice to Monaco Monte-Carlo by train, and the stop is located right downtown. As you explore, don’t miss the sweeping vistas of the Monaco Yacht Club and the water from various points around town.  

From here, you can check out the following things by foot:

• Monte Carlo Casino : Dating back to 1865, the Beaux-Arts building is beautiful inside and out. While you can only enter the main hall area free of charge, it’s well worth a peek inside the most iconic casino in the world. The entry hall is very impressive (and air-conditioned!) and the vistas of the surrounding ocean as you walk up the hill to the casino are beautiful. Don’t miss the luxury cars parked in front. If you want to gamble, the minimum to enter is 17€.
• Opera de Monte Carlo : Located in the same building as the casino and designed by Charles Garnier (yes, the same Garnier that did the Paris Opera House!) , this ornate and stately building is also worth a quick peek. 
• Monaco Grand Prix : While most of the year this is just a normal road, it’s also where the Monaco Grand Prix race has taken place since 1929. 
• Monaco City/Old Town: Located at the top of a fairly steep hill, the Old Town is a great place to just wander for a bit, perhaps stopping for a bite to eat. 
• Palais Princier : The official residence of the prince, Albert II, it’s easy to see that it was originally built as a fortress in the 1200s from its exterior. Try to time your visit with the changing of the guard (daily at 11:55 AM), and tours of the interior are available as well if you want to see inside. Pro tip: on the left-hand side facing the palace is a great place to refill your water bottle and have a bit of shade. 
• Monaco Cathedral (Saint Nicholas Cathedral) : The official cathedral of Monaco, deceased members of the royal family (including Grace Kelly) are buried here.
• Oceanographic Museum : If you’re interested in Mediterranean sea life and marine conservation efforts, check out this museum!

Once you’ve had your fill of Monaco, head a bit further north for an afternoon in Menton . Menton is so close to Italy you can practically throw a rock to the border. In fact, it’s the last rail stop in France. 

As major Italophiles, it felt weird to be so close and not visit, but if you want to tack on a visit to Ventimiglia or San Remo, you totally can.

Menton is a quaint little city known for lemon production . It’s a good introduction to the region in that it’s your first taste of the typical pace and architectural trends you’ll see. While Menton wasn’t our favorite place by a long shot, it’s well-worth a visit paired with Monaco. You likely can see all the sights in a few hours. 

Here are our recommendations: 

• Don’t miss the Palais de Carnolès , a previous summer residence of the Grimaldi family. It’s now home to the Musée des Beaux Arts , Menton’s art museum.
• If you’d like to visit another museum, check out the Musée Jean Cocteau , dedicated to native son Jean Cocteau (author of Les Enfants Terribles .) The nearby Bastion was redecorated by him with mosaics, and he also redesigned the nearby Wedding Chapel , a government building. 
• Lastly, Basilica Saint Michel is a Baroque-era church worth a quick peek.
• If you’re keen to do some swimming, Plage Les Sablettes is a great place to take a dip that’s right in the center of town. It offers a gorgeous view of the city if you swim out a bit. 
• Climbing up the hill from the Vieille Ville to the Old Château Cemetery offers sweeping vistas of the water and town below, and is not as popular with tourists as other places in town. It’s a beautiful and reflective space– you feel like you could almost touch the sky there. 

Note: We didn’t visit Menton’s botanical gardens (we chose to focus on Èze’s instead), but there are 2 that are very highly-recommended. If you’re a fan, check out Val Rahmeh Botanical Garden and Jardin de la Serre de la Madone for an explosion of rare and exotic plants.

Antibes has a more laid-back, relaxed vibe than the ritzier Riviera towns, and was Tegan’s favorite place on the Riviera. A bit “hipster,” the buildings are definitely shabby-chic. The color palette ventured more towards soft pastels than Menton’s jewel-tones, and the pace was more down-to-earth than places like Cannes or Nice.

F. Scott Fitzgerald fans, this is your moment– the author and his family adored Antibes, and were said to have spent the happiest times of their lives there. Juan-Les-Pins in particular is a great place to follow in their footsteps:

• Visit the villa the Fitzgeralds lived in, then called Villa Saint-Louis. After they moved away in the late 1920s, it became the Hotel Belles Rives , which it remains today. The Art Deco building is beautiful– check out the lobby’s frescoes and period furnishings, along with large portraits of the Fitzgeralds.
• Nearby, peek into the Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc (called Hotel des Étrangers in Tender is the Night. ) Sara and Gerald Murphy, who inspired main characters Dick and Nicole Diver, frequently entertained here in real life as well as in the novel. Don’t miss the really neat swimming pool carved into the rocks.

Elsewhere in Antibes, check out the following:

• Old Town: 16th-century ramparts enclose the Vieille Ville , packed with beachy buildings in an array of soft colors. Star-shaped Fort Carré also dates back to the 16th century, and sits on the outskirts of town. 
• In the town center, the covered Marché Provençal is one of the best examples of Provençal-style markets in the South of France. All sorts of things are sold here, from dried lavender to pungent local cheese and fresh-squeezed juice. 
• Built atop the ancient Greek town of Antipolis, the building that now houses the Musée Picasso was formerly the Château Grimaldi, where Picasso himself lived and worked in the 1940s. The museum is definitely worth visiting, and don’t miss the views from the terrace!
• Plage de la Gravette
• Plage Juan-les-Pins
• Plage de la Garoupe
• Plage du Ponteil 
• Plage de la Salis
• Journeying down to the tip of the Cap d’Antibes peninsula, there’s a fabulous 5-kilometer walking path called Le Sentier du Littoral , with jaw-dropping views of the peninsula. A bit of a “hideaway for the rich and famous” seeking to get away from less-private Cannes, it’s much quieter here and a great place for hiking and exploring.

Next up, it’s time for Alex’s favorite spot on the French Riviera– Èze . 

Èze is an unbelievable example of the fortified medieval towns dotting the Provence area. There are 16 in total, forming the Route des Villages Perchés, or the Perched Village Route.

Our most critical piece of advice here is to  get on the first available bus to Èze in the morning.  We hopped on the first bus (#82) from the depot in Nice at 8 AM, and we are so glad we did. 

By the time we left a few hours later, there was an absolute mob scene of tourists, and the town is frankly way too small for so many people. Truly, your enjoyment will be severely limited if there are a lot of people there when you visit.

• Èze has been inhabited since around 2000 BCE, alternatively by Romans, Phoenicians, and Moors.
• In the late 1300s it became part of the House of Savoy. This is when it started to look largely like it does today.
• It’s sometimes called an “eagle’s nest” due to its height, which was critical for protecting nearby towns like Nice through history.
• After a lot of fighting back and forth, the inhabitants of the town (called Ezasques ) decided to fully join France in 1860.
• Today, Èze is often referred to as a “village-musée” (museum village), because few people actually live there full-time.
• While there is a local dialect similar to that of nearby Monaco, it’s also pretty much extinct.

While you’re here, there is nothing better than  exploring the town by foot.  The narrow stone passageways, awnings bursting with beautiful greenery, and serene stone buildings are absolutely charming. Definitely take your time meandering around and stopping into any little shops or cafés that call your attention.

Don’t miss: 

• The Chapelle de la Sainte Croix , which dates back to 1306 
• Jardin Exotique d’Eze botanical garden: An absolute must see! While anyone who has visited the American Southwest or a similar place won’t find the cactuses particularly exotic, they are super beautiful and lovingly maintained, and exploring the winding path around the gardens was one of the highlights of our day. Better yet, you can reach the tippy-top of the town here, with unbelievable views of the surrounding water, Cap-Ferrat, and the coastline. Keep an eye out for Fort de la Revère and Mont Bastide in the distance.
• Église Notre-Dame-de-l’Assomption: Beautiful inside and out, and big enough that it’s one of the only parts of town that you can see from other areas 
• La Chevre d’Or hotel: While everything in Èze is beautiful, this hotel is worth mentioning by name because it’s super fancy and picturesque, with fresh flowers and beautiful stone passageways. It really feels like traveling back in time.
• Needless to say, we super recommend visiting Grasse, but if you don’t have time, we noticed that a lot of tourists made a beeline for the Fragonard store immediately after stepping off the bus in Èze, so consider doing that after exploring the town if you want to beat the crowds into the town proper.–

After you’ve finished exploring, you can trek downhill for about an hour on the  Chemin Frederic Nietzsche  towards the beach part of town, called  Èze-sur-Mer.  It’s really easy to see the beginning of the trail from the entrance to the fortified town. 

To be honest, we weren’t quite prepared for hiking and just had walking sneakers on, so note that the trail can be a bit steep and slippery at times if you’re not wearing proper footwear. 

The trail is so, so beautiful– we really urge you to do it if that’s the kind of thing you enjoy. The sweeping vistas of the turquoise water and the jagged mountain peaks were one of the highlights of our trip, even though it was brutally hot and dusty. Definitely layer on the sunscreen prior to getting started, because it’s quite exposed. 

Every step of the trail was breathtakingly beautiful, and once you get to the bottom, you’re rewarded with a pristine beach (right on the other side of the SNCF station, just go through the tunnel!) It was the most wonderful feeling in the world to jump in the water after all that sweaty downhill trekking!

Note: you can also do the trail in reverse (upward from Èze-sur-Mer to the town of Èze) if you’re up for about 1.5 hours of steep uphill hiking. It was way too hot for us to even contemplate doing this while we were there, but we’d love to do it next time we visit. Keep in mind that you should wear sneakers for this– we saw a lot of people struggling in flip-flops.

Èze-sur-Mer was by far our favorite beach on the Riviera . Not only was it much quieter than other beaches, but the curve of the coastline with the mountains rising above it was just surreal. 

The water was the perfect temperature, cool with gentle waves, and we found that we definitely didn’t mind the lack of sand. If anything, it was nice not to track it back into the hotel. 

Keep in mind that the pebble beaches can be a bit tough on your feet, though, we wished we had some water shoes. 

Bonus stop: Villefranche-sur-Mer

Bonus stop: 

If you’re heading back towards Nice from Èze-sur-Mer and are in the mood for another beach outing, you can stop at Villefranche-Sur-Mer , the stop before Nice on the SNCF. 

Definitely one of the most popular beaches on the Riviera, it’s one of the few beaches with sand (rather than rocks.) 

You may recognize its beautiful skyline– it’s been the scene of many, many movies set on the Riviera in the last decades. 

The downside to Villefranche is that it can get overwhelmingly busy. Sometimes the water even seems too crowded to swim in, and spots to lay your towel are few and far between. For that reason, we preferred the quieter beaches, but it’s a fun vibe if you don’t mind being a bit squished. 

Another contender for our favorite day on the trip was a day spent in Beaulieu-sur-Mer and Cap-Ferrat . Located super close to Nice, we took this day as an opportunity to relax a bit, and did most of our touristing around Nice that afternoon when we got back.

Beaulieu-sur-Mer is heart-stoppingly beautiful. From the pristine white umbrellas dotting the beach to the imposing façade of Villa Kérylos jutting out to the sea, the best way to explore the area is via the Promenade Maurice Rouvier . 

Starting at Plage-Port des Fourmis , you can walk the 1.5 kilometers between Beaulieu and Cap-Ferrat along a breathtaking elevated waterfront path. Largely flat and super-navigable, this was another highlight of our trip – you can’t miss it.

Meandering along the path, your next stop is the Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat.  

Truly, this is a historic house worth the entrance fee splurge. You will see shortly after entering that Béatrice de Rothschild was truly a woman before her time. She owned stables, raced horses, gambled in Monaco (women weren’t allowed to gamble in France yet), and largely did whatever struck her fancy. 

After her divorce from a wealthy Russian financier, Béatrice had prominent architect Aaron Messiah design this majestic, frothy pink confection overlooking the Mediterranean. 

Furnished with Old Masters paintings and a jaw-dropping amount of furniture from the court of Louis XVI and Marie-Antoinette , even if you’re not big on period furniture, many of the pieces are the sole survivors of that time period– their contemporaries were all destroyed during the French Revolution. 

After you finish the audio-guide about the house, go outside to check out the themed gardens. There are a whopping 9 of them, but they’re all connected via a nice path with the following themes: French, Spanish, Florentine, stone, Japanese, exotic, Provençal, and roses.

When you finish exploring the villa, you can finish the Promenade Maurice Rouvier and explore the town of Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat . While there isn’t a whole lot to see here, it’s refreshingly quiet and absolutely gorgeous.

We found that after our morning in Beaulieu and Cap-Ferrat, we had an ideal expanse of time in the afternoon to explore  Nice . 

While Nice’s airport is for sure where you’ll land, it’s oddly easy to forget to spend time there in favor of jet-setting to all the various smaller towns and attractions along the SNCF train lines. 

While Nice certainly wasn’t our favorite place we visited, you should definitely spend some time exploring around, even if it’s just in the evenings prior to getting a bite to eat, or setting aside an afternoon like we did. 

Again, Nice is a big city– the 5th-largest in France. We were a bit taken aback by the pace there, as it was way less relaxed than other places, but it’s to be expected for a city of that size.

Check out these things: 

• If nothing else, a stroll along a portion of the 7-kilometer Promenade des Anglais is arguably the most essential thing to do in Nice. As its name suggests, it was built by the English, who started coming to Nice as a winter holiday destination in the 18th century. Colloquially, you can call it La Prom. 
• Nearby and overlooking the bay is the Castle of Nice , once a military fortification and now a beautiful public park. Consider walking up Castle Hill (Colline du Château)– depending on the time of day, the sun highlights different panoramic viewpoints, leading to the area sometimes being called the “cradle of the sun.” 
• Do a spot of shopping at the outdoor covered market Cours Saleya as you explore Nice’s Old Town , particularly famous for flowers. Start in the Place Masséna , and don’t miss the famous Fountain of the Sun (featuring a beautiful statue of Apollo) and neat black-and-white paving. The Old Town itself can be a bit disorienting, with narrow, jam-packed streets that are vaguely reminiscent of Moroccan souks– it’s wise to pick a central point like quaint Place Rossetti . Similar to other old towns in the area, it’s nice to just walk around and explore here.
• Nice’s Old Port is also a lovely area to walk around, checking out the various boats docked there and maybe grabbing a bite to eat. 
• Museum lovers, rejoice– Nice is home to the Marc Chagall National Museum as well as the Musée Matisse . The former home of Renoir is also open for tours, called Musée Renoir . If Baroque palaces are more your scene, check out Musée du Palais Lascaris instead. Lastly, for contemporary art fans, check out Musée d’Art Moderne et d’Art Contemporain.
• The oldest square in Nice, Place Garibaldi is a good meeting place and transportation hub.
• Jean-Medecin is a good shopping street and connection to the airport and other places.

Located in the hills above Cannes, Grasse is another cute-as-a-button town perfect for a day trip. Considered the capitale mondiale des parfums (perfume capital of the world), iconic French parfumeur Fragonard is headquartered here, as well as others such as Molinard and Galimard . 

Fun fact: the city is responsible for producing two-thirds of France’s “scents,” whether for perfumes or for food flavoring.

Naturally, dotted around the town you’ll see a lot of perfume-related stuff, as well as the usual assortment of charming architecture and cute cafés. 

Grasse has been given the honor of Ville d’Art et d’Histoire (City of Art and History) by the French government, and similarly to the other destinations in this guide, you should absolutely spend some time wandering around and exploring the quaint streets, peeking at the various buildings and the Grasse Cathedral.

You’ll find that Grasse is quite different from the other Riviera towns.  It’s quite a bit further from Nice– about 2 hours away, and is actually the terminus of the SNCF line in that direction.

Since it’s tucked up in the hills, the flora and fauna are also a bit different, and overall it feels much less like a beach town. In fact, one of the main reasons it became so famous for perfume was because it’s far enough inland to not be affected by sea breezes, but still retains a warm and muggy climate ideal for flowers. 

Note that it’s about a 15-minute (uphill) walk from the SNCF train station to the city center, but the path is largely pedestrian-only and very well-marked. 

In addition to exploring the town, you can’t visit Grasse without touring at least one perfume factory. 

Fragonard offers a free tour of their factory that is actually super fascinating and informative. Yes, we were skeptical… but we both really enjoyed it and recommend it wholeheartedly. 

They teach you all about the history of perfume and the history of Grasse, as well as show you how their perfumes are made. It’s amazing how small-scale and personalized their production is, even today. You will definitely learn something new! It’s available both in French and in English.

Don’t say we didn’t warn you, but the free tour ends, unsurprisingly, in a large shop with all sorts of goodies, from perfumes to colognes, candles, soaps, and more. They sell tiny bottles of their signature perfumes that make great souvenirs and gifts, but they are definitely on the pricey side. 

Additionally, there are a few free museums to check out while you’re here: an art museum dedicated to the works of native son Jean-Honoré Fragonard (the perfume company is named after his father!) and a local Museum of Art and History .

If you’re feeling up to it on your way back from Grasse, consider stopping in Cannes . Cannes is arguably the most famous of the Riviera towns, known for its yearly film festival and popularity with celebrities. 

We’ll be frank– we didn’t love Cannes . While that may be an unpopular opinion (or just our personal opinion!) we encourage you to stop and explore a bit to make your own opinion.

Compared to the other towns we visited, Cannes just felt so stressful . It was just as sweltering outside as it had been the days prior, but the crush of tourists made it feel even hotter. 

Specifically, La Croisette, one of the most iconic beaches in the world, was so covered in private beach clubs that you couldn’t even see the water. 

While you should definitely be aware that private beach clubs are very common on the Riviera, there is usually at least a portion of the beach that’s public… or at least not so clogged with umbrellas and pounding techno music that that’s all you can see. 

That said, it’s certainly worth spending some time walking around, doing some shopping, or even stocking up on groceries, as it’s a bigger town with more amenities. 

A few things to check out while you’re there:

• The world-famous Boulevard de la Croisette , a 2-kilometer waterfront promenade with beautiful palm trees. Don’t miss the Palais des Festivals et des Congrès , where the Cannes Film Festival is held. There are tours of the Grand Auditorium available, and of course you can take a photo on the iconic steps! About two blocks behind la Croisette there is also a cute shopping area, but it mainly has chain stores like Zara, etc. Worth a stroll on the Rue d’Antibes in particular.
• If you start climbing the hills west of the harbor, you’ll see Le Suquet , the site of the original settlement that is now Cannes. Rue Sainte-Antoine is known for its quaint fisherman’s houses and variety of restaurants leading to Place de la Castre . Don’t miss the beautiful Notre-Dame d’Espérance church and views of la Croisette below. Fort de la Castre is one of the only medieval buildings in Cannes, built way up high as a fortification back in the 11th century. You can still climb the 100 or so steps to the top. 
• If you didn’t make it to the Marché Provençal in Antibes, check out the Marché Forville , which is also a provençal-style market.

Bonus: Îles de Lérins

There are also a few islands (called the  Lérins Islands ) that are a short and beautiful ferry ride from Cannes, and the highlight of our time there.

Île Sainte-Marguerite  and  Île Saint-Honorat  are the biggest. If you visit Saint-Honorat, don’t miss the Lérins Abbey, a beautiful Cistercian monastery– it’s apparently been a pilgrimage site for centuries. 

We chose to visit Île Sainte-Marguerite, and we loved it. Only about 15 minutes from the Cannes ferry terminal, ferries run quite frequently and drop you off at a small harbor. From there, you can explore the island! 

Don’t miss checking out  Fort Royal (where the Man in the Iron Mask was imprisoned) as well as taking a  stroll along the pine and eucalyptus forests. There are various viewpoints around the island for stunning views of the sea and Cannes in the distance. 

We hope you enjoyed this 5-day itinerary to the French Riviera! 

Ending with another Fitzgerald quote…

“once in the middle twenties, i was driving along the high corniche road through the twilight with the whole french riviera twinkling on the sea below. as far ahead as i could see was monte carlo…when life was literally a dream.”  , amen to that.

We hope you’ll save this guide for later on Pinterest by clicking here or on either photo below. As always, you can keep up with what we’re up to on Instagram or Facebook , or comment below if you have any questions or memories to share!

If you’d like a more bite-sized guide, don’t miss our guide to our 11 top towns on the French Riviera to visit !

11 Bucket List-Worthy Towns on the French Riviera

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The Perfect French Riviera Itinerary: 5 Days in the Côte d’Azur

Jessica Eknaian

https://www.foratravel.com/guides/YSB687/the-perfect-french-riviera-itinerary-5-days-in-the-cote-dazur

French Riviera

Boutique Travel

Sightseeing

Curator’s statement

The French Riviera, also known as the Côte d'Azur, is a glamorous Mediterranean destination renowned for its stunning coastline, chic resorts and vibrant culture. Picture azure waters, sun-kissed beaches and charming villages nestled between the sea and the mountains. From the luxury of Monaco to the artistic allure of Nice and the laid-back elegance of Cannes, the French Riviera offers a blend of sophistication, historic charm and picturesque landscapes, making it an ideal playground for those seeking a refined and memorable escape.

The Fora Difference

Book with Jessica to access exclusive perks and experiences on your trip.

Killer perks

Free upgrades, spa credits and more—we got you

Personalized recs

Customized travel planning for your style

Insider knowledge

Expert advice from people who’ve actually been there

Where to stay

Hôtel royal-riviera.

This hotel is a stunning cocktail of Art Deco and Neo-Hellenic influences overlooking a Mediterranean garden.

$100 spa credit.

Breakfast daily.

Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.

Hôtel du Cap-Eden-Roc

This stylish hilltop stay embodies the glamor of France’s sparkling Côte d’Azur. Expect sophisticated accommodations, locally sourced food (including a lovely juice and ice cream bar) and flawless service.

$100 hotel / resort credit.

Upgrade whenever possible.

Priority access to courtesy car, where applicable.

La Réserve de Beaulieu

Iconic hotel on the French Riviera with high-end dining experiences.

Hotel Belles Rives

A beachfront hotel with Gilded Age history and vibes, plus art-filled public spaces and a private beach and pontoon.

$100 food / beverage credit.

Le 1932 Hotel & Spa Cap d'Antibes - MGallery

Experience the epitome of French Riviera sophistication and glamour at this exclusive boutique hotel, where timeless elegance meets modern luxury.

Food / beverage credit.

Welcome treat in room on arrival.

Upgrade & guaranteed late check-out.

Unlock perks by contacting Jessica to book your trip.

Get in touch with Jessica

Reach out to customize and book your own experience. Or, just to chat about travel in general.

You can normally expect a response from Jessica within a business day or so. You’ll also be subscribed to our travel newsletter (you can unsubscribe at any time).

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Day 1: Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat

Arrive at Nice Airport with VIP Meet & Greet for expedited customs and baggage handling.

Private transfer to the resort hotel for check-in.

Dine along the marina at a Restaurant Le Saint Jean

Explore the exquisite gardens of Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild

OR instead, Relax on private beach club for the afternoon, Paloma Beach and take a coastal walk around the peninsula

Day 2: Villefranche-sur-Mer and Nice

Spend the morning in the quaint fishing village of Villefranche-sur-Mer, strolling through the picturesque Old Town.

Visit the Saint-Elme Citadel.

Afternoon in Nice, exploring the Promenade des Anglais, Old Town, and museums like Chagall and Matisse.

Relax at one of Nice’s many famous beach clubs, like Plage Beau Rivage

OR indulge in a food and wine tour throughout the hidden gems of culinary treasures, quality wines and tales of past and present in Nice

Day 3: Explore Eze and Monaco

Meet your private transfer and tour guide for the day

Head to the charming medieval village of Eze.

Explore the Jardin Exotique and the cobblestone streets.

Visit the Fragonard Perfume Factory.

Continue to Monaco in the afternoon, passing through iconic James Bond filming locations and the F1 Grand Prix raceway.

Visit the Prince’s Palace, the Oceanographic Museum, and the famous Casino Square with luxury shopping and excellent people-watching.

Day 4: Transfer to Cap d’Antibes

Check into Antibes hotel, begin by exploring and visiting the Picasso Museum

Relax on the beaches or take a walk along the Cap d'Antibes coastal path; OR Book a spa treatment for the afternooon

Enjoy an evening in the vibrant atmosphere of Antibes Old Town, followed by a memorable dinner at Madison de Bacon or one star Michelin, LouRoc

Day 5: Cannes

Day trip to Cannes, known for its glamorous atmosphere.

Explore the Croisette , visit the Film Festival Palace, and stroll through Le Suquet.

Enjoy upscale shopping and dine in one of Cannes’ renowned restaurants. You could take a private boat ride to swanky La Guerite or enjoy dinner by candlelight at La Petite Maison de Nicole where you are likely to spot a celebrity similarly enjoying the atmosphere and delicious offerings.

Need to Know

Simply strolling through all these towns with no schedule is one of my favorite things to do!  The varied charm of all allows always something new to discover.  Every price point hotels and restaurants can be found throughout. I encountered all locals to be exceptionally welcoming and spoke English.  

It is also valuable to know that transportation along the French Riviera is remarkably convenient, with well-connected options for seamless travel. Efficient train services link major cities like Nice, Cannes, and Monaco, providing a scenic journey along the coast. Additionally, a network of buses offers easy access to smaller towns and scenic routes. Renting a car provides flexibility to explore at your own pace, while boats and ferries offer a charming way to hop between coastal gems.  I personally took the train and taxis often. Trains were very low cost and extremely convenient.

For more travel tips, check out Fora Advisor Laura Doroghazi’s guide The French Riviera - Nice .

Travel Advisor

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This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to France .

Road Trip French Riviera – Itinerary 7 Days (Road Trip Côte d’Azur)

Article written by Elisa - Travel Writer & Local in France This article may contain compensated links. Please read disclaimer for more info.

Driving the French Riviera

The French Riviera (Côte d’Azur in French) is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Southern France . The coastline between Toulon and Menton is dotted with picturesque towns, world-famous beaches , and pristine coves, perfect for a weekend getaway or a week in France .

The best way to explore the French Riviera is by car. Driving the French Riviera gives you the freedom to visit the best places in the region at your own pace, and you are not restricted by set timetables. Go on reading for the perfect French Riviera road trip itinerary.

Are you planning your French Riviera road trip last minute?

Below are some of the best French Riviera tours, hotels, and more along the road!

• Book your flight tickets to Nice Airport (NCE) ; Book your train tickets to Nice .

Do you need to rent a car for this Côte d’Azur road trip? Click here for the best rental car rates in Nice .

Top Experiences and Tours along the road:

• Nice Food Tour
• Monaco F1 Track walking tour
• Cannes free walking tour

Top Places to Stay along the road:

• Hotel La Pérouse Nice Baie des Anges (it has the best view of Nice)
• Hotel La Chèvre d’Or (the best hotel in Eze, with spectacular views of the coast)
• Hotel Napoléon (a beautiful hotel on the seafront in Menton)
• Hotel Belles Rives (an Art-Deco hotel located on the waterfront in Juan-les-Pins)
• Hotel Croisette Beach Cannes Mgallery (one of the best French Riviera resorts, located in Cannes)

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Compare plans, prices, and coverage with  Travel Insurance Master , a comparison site that will find the perfect fit for you amongst the world’s leading programs.  Travel Insurance Master is also the best place to look for senior travelers .

French Riviera Road Overview

• Start: Nice
• Finish: Cannes
• Duration: 7 days
• Suggested Route: Nice – Èze – Montecarlo – Menton – Antibes – Cannes
• Total distance:  100 km, 2hrs 15min drive in total
• Regions covered: Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur
• Best for: sightseeing, beach, landscapes, small towns.

This road trip French Riviera begins in Nice . It’s a French Riviera itinerary 7 days, but you can spend much longer delving into this stunning area in the region of Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur .

Nice is easy to reach by train from Paris or Lyon. The journey from Paris to Nice takes around 5 hours 45 minutes, while Lyon to Nice by train is only 4 hours 50 minutes (some options include a transfer). You can also fly to Nice from abroad; click here for flight destinations and prices to Nice Airport (NCE) .

With more time available, you can drive from Paris to Nice to see more of France.

French Riviera Road Trip Map

Click here to view this French Riviera Road Trip Map on Google

This Côte d’Azur road trip is one of the best road trips in France , with some of France’s most scenic drives. Read more about road-tripping in France:

Côte d’Azur Road Trip Itinerary 7 Days

This French Riviera itinerary 7 days starts in  Nice , one of the must-visit cities in Southern France , where you will spend two nights. For this French Riviera road trip, you don’t need a car until day 2, so if you need to hire a car, wait until then to pick up your rental car in Nice .

We recommend booking your car with  Discover Cars . This site is great because it takes all major rental companies, such as Hertz, Avis, and more, and compares prices for you. Check out our best  tips for renting a car in France .

Click here to rent a car in Nice

Day 0 | Arrival in Nice

As this Côte d’Azur road trip itinerary begins in Nice , take this opportunity to explore the French Riviera’s capital before hitting the road. For your stay in Nice, book a room at Hotel La Pérouse Nice Baie des Anges . This lovely 4-star hotel nestled into the Colline du Château comes with Nice’s best view over the Baie des Anges and beautiful, comfortable rooms with Mediterranean decor – Click here to book at Hotel La Pérouse Nice Baie des Anges

Days 1–2 | Nice

Nice is a beautiful Mediterranean city with ochre-colored Baroque architecture, sunny beaches, and an interesting cultural scene. With two days in Nice , you can spend one day exploring the city’s narrow streets, bustling markets, and main tourist sites and use the second day for a day tour.

The list of fun things to see and do in Nice includes:

• A stroll through the Promenade des Anglais
• The Castle Hill
• Cimiez Hill
• Matisse Museum
• Chagall Museum

TIP: Immerse yourself in the traditional Mediterranean flavors influenced by the Alps of the Côte d’Azur with this Nice Food Tour

The list of best day trips from Nice includes the oh-so-pretty Villefranche-sur-Mer (no car necessary), picturesque hilltop villages, or the Gorges du Verdon . You can also explore the French Riviera coast from the water with this lovely sunset boat tour from Nice to Cap Ferrat .

If you visit the French Riviera in July or August, you can consider a day trip to Valensole to see some of the best lavender fields in Provence .

Day 3 | Èze

Day 3 of this road trip French Riviera leaves the coastline to visit one of the most picturesque hilltop villages in the region.

Èze is a picture-perfect medieval village with winding cobblestone streets, small galleries, and lush gardens. Its dramatic location on a hilltop 400 meters above the sea comes with exceptional views of the coastline.

Take your time exploring the town and admiring the superb stone houses, little squares with refreshing fountains, and numerous boutiques selling beautiful crafts. If you are in the mood for a walk, the scenic Nietzsche Path down to the beach is perfect.

I recommend spending the night at Èze so you can enjoy this wonderful place when the day crowds are gone. For a night in Eze, the Hotel La Chèvre d’Or is perfect. This top-rated hotel in the heart of the town offers spectacular views of the coast, and it has excellent facilities like private gardens, a well-rated restaurant, a pool, and comfortable air-conditioned rooms – Click here to book your stay at Hotel La Chèvre d’Or

Day 4 | Monte Carlo (Monaco)

This road trip Côte d’Azur continues east to the Italian border. From Èze, drive to Monte Carlo, Monaco’s capital and also part of the French Riviera. Monte Carlo is home to many worlds’ fortunes, and you can get an idea of the city’s wealth by strolling around the port dotted with luxurious yachts.

In Monte Carlo, there are also some interesting sites. The list of best things to see and do in Monte Carlo includes:

• Palace of Monte Carlo
• Casino of Monte Carlo
• Monaco Cathedral
• Oceanographic Museum and Aquarium
• Exotic Garden

In the afternoon, drive to Menton , where you will spend one night. For your night in Menton, book at Hotel Napoléon , located on the seafront. This top-rated hotel offers an outdoor pool, a garden, a 24-hour bar, and bright rooms with ocean views – Book your stay at Hotel Napoléon

Day 5 | Menton

Day 5 of this French Riviera itinerary by car visits Menton , France’s sunniest city. Menton is also famous for its citrus and the Lemon Festival , and we have it listed as one of our favorite winter destinations in France .

Explore Menton’s Old Town, with its colorful houses, fabulous staircases, beach stone mosaics, and pretty gardens. The port and the beach resort are perfect for a last lazy day on the French Riviera. If you are curious to know more about Menton’s culinary delights, join this top-rated Menton food tour .

Day 6 | Antibes

From Menton, drive west to Antibes, a lovely city where you will spend one night.

Antibes is one of the best places on the French Riviera . It is a popular beach destination with a picturesque historic center and golden beaches. The city is dominated by Château Grimaldi, one of my favorite castles in Southern France . Antibes also encompasses the coastline of Cap d’Antibes and Juan-les-Pins , with pretty sandy beaches surrounded by pine trees.

For your stay in Antibes, book one night at the Hotel Belles Rives . This Art-Deco hotel, located right on the waterfront in Juan-les-Pins, has an onsite bar and restaurant, a beautiful terrace with sea views, and a private beach – Click here to book your stay at the Hôtel Belles Rives

The list of fun things to see and do in Antibes includes:

• The Old Town
• Picasso Museum in medieval Château Grimaldi
• Antibes beaches
• Chemin des Douaniers, a 3.7km-seafront walk
• Archaeology Museum in the Bastion Saint-André

Day 7 | Cannes

As this French Riviera road trip ends in Cannes , take this opportunity to explore this wonderful city. Cannes is a place filled with glitz and glamour, perfect to start your French holiday in style!

For your stay in Cannes, book two nights at the Hotel Croisette Beach Cannes Mgallery . One of the best French Riviera resorts , this charming 4-star property is set just 150 from La Croisette’s beaches, and it comes with a private pool, beachfront bar restaurant, and access to a private beach at an extra cost – Click here to book your stay at Hotel Croisette Beach Cannes Mgallery

Spend the day in Cannes , soaking up the atmosphere of this chic city on the French Riviera. There are many places where you can relax, but also some interesting cultural attractions.

The list of fun things to see and do in Cannes includes:

• Promenade through Boulevard de la Croisette
• Fourville food market
• La Croix des Gardes Park
• Sunset drink at the Old Port
• Notre Dame d’Espérance Church
• Medieval Castle – Musée de la Castre

TIP: This Cannes free walking tour is an excellent introduction to France’s most glamorous city!

So, what are you waiting for? Book this fun Côte d’Azur itinerary 7 days today!

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The Ginger Wanderlust

French Riviera & Provence Road Trip Itinerary – South of France

If you are planning a trip to France I highly recommend including the South of France in your itinerary. Spend a week exploring quaint villages, beautiful lavender fields and chilling in the luxurious French Riviera. My road trip itinerary is for one week but you could easily extend this to 10 or 14 days if you would like more time relaxing in the South East of France. In this article I will share my French Riviera & Provence Road Trip Itinerary.

French Riviera & Provence Road Trip Itinerary

Day 1:  Arrive in Marseille Day 2:  Aix-en-Provence, Roussillon, Gordes & Fontaine-de-Vaucluse Day 3:  Plateau de Valensole and the Lavender Fields Day 4:  Gorges du Verdon Day 5:  Menton Day 6:  Monaco Day 7:  Eze, Villefranche-sur-Mer, Nice Day 8:  Nice

You could also extend this trip by adding extra stops along the French Riviera to Antibes, Cannes and Saint Tropez.

If you’re wanting to skip the research then you should check out The Voyageurs Collection . They can create tailor-made holidays to France where every detail is curated to you and your needs.  Enjoy access to their additional services, including private transfers, local Concierge service, fast track through customs and more.

This is a sponsored blog post which includes some affiliate links which allows me to create some revenue from this article at no extra cost to you. All opinions are my own. Thank you for supporting my blog.

Day 1:  Arrive in Marseille

My friends and I chose to fly in and out of Marseille as the flights were cheaper and we wanted to start with the lavender fields in Provence. You could also do the same trip starting in Nice.

As we arrived in quite late we went straight to our hotel near Aix en Provence. However if it’s your first time to Marseille I would recommend heading in to explore the city for at least a day. Make sure you walk around the Old Port of Marseille and check out the Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde and Palais Longchamp. Find out the most instagrammable photo spots in Marseille.

If you spend more time in Marseille then I definitely recommend going hiking in the Parc National des Calanques just to the east of the city. These beautiful steep-cliffed inlets have incredible turquoise water, perfect for a swim after your hike!

Where to stay: Marseille: Novotel Marseille Vieux Port or Residence le Canebiere Aix-en-Provence: City Résidence Aix-en-Provence or Escale Oceania Aix-en-Provence

Day 2:  Aix-en-Provence, Roussillon, Gordes & Fontaine-de-Vaucluse

Start your day getting lost in the cute little streets of Aix-en Provence. Make sure to check out Cours Mirabeau, Paroisse Cathédrale Saint Sauveur Aix-en-Provence and Place d’Albertas.

After lunch drive for just over an hour to Roussillon, a super cute town that is home to the biggest ochre deposits in the world. The town is surrounded by countryside and magnificent red cliffs, and if you stroll around the maze of streets you will notice the beautiful ochre façades of the houses. You can park just outside the old town for €3. Make sure to stop at the super instagrammable town hall for a photo!

The next village along from Roussillon is Gordes, one of the most famous villages in Provence. Built on the foothills of the Monts of Vaucluse, facing the Luberon, Gordes is a super instagrammable hilltop village. The roads to get here are quite winding so it will take around 30-40 minutes to drive here from Roussillon (more than what Google Maps suggests).

Make sure to head to the viewpoint (labeled ‘point de vue sur la ville de Gordes’) and have a little walk around town. You should also visit the beautiful Abbaye Notre Dame de Sénanque just outside of Gordes. If you’re visiting in July you might also be lucky enough to see the lavender in bloom!

The final village to visit is Fontaine-de-Vaucluse, which might just be my favourite of the Provence villages. Set in a valley it has a number of cute colourful houses dotted alongside a river. If you follow the river upstream you’ll come across Vaucluse spring. A cave with fresh spring water that is a shocking turquoise colour. Go for a swim if you dare, but beware it is COLD!

Where to stay: If you want to stay near your last stop of the day I would stay at Hotel Restaurant Carcarille , Hotel du Poète or Le Vieux Bistrot . If you wish to stay near the lavender fields for a couple of nights I would stay near Valensole or in Manosque (bigger town with more amenities): Les Terrasses de Valensole or L’Hôtel du Terreau Logis de France 

Day 3:  Plateau de Valensole and the Lavender Fields

Wake up for sunrise and enjoy the most beautiful lavender fields in Provence . You will find a number of lavender fields on the Plateau de Valensole, especially on the road between Manosque and Valensole.

Please note that Lavender is a summer flower that starts to bloom in Provence around mid June and is generally harvested from mid July to the beginning of August. However the exact dates differ from year to year depending on the weather. So if you come out of this season you will miss the lavender fields.

Where to stay: If you wish to stay near the lavender fields for a couple of nights I would stay near Valensole or in Manosque (bigger town with more amenities): Les Terrasses de Valensole or L’Hôtel du Terreau Logis de France.

Day 4:  Les Gorges du Verdon

Depending on where you are staying on the Plateau de Valensole the drive will take you around 40 minutes to an hour to the Pont du Galetas which is where you can access the Verdon Gorge (or les Gorges du Verdon).

Go kayaking or pedalo-ing up the Verdon Gorge, admiring the bright turquoise water and sheer cliffs. For more information check out my Top Tips for Visiting the Gorges du Verdon.

From here you want to drive for around 3 hours to the French Riveria town of Menton. As this is quite a long drive you might want to consider stopping in Grasse on the way. A town just north of Cannes that is known for its long-established perfume industry.

Spend the evening in Menton, walking round the colourful streets and soaking up the relaxed atmosphere of the French Riviera.

Where to stay: I stayed at the Hotel Pavillon which was the best value for money and within walking distance of the main town.

Day 5:  Menton

Spend your first full day on the Cote d’Azur enjoying Menton’s iconic Plage des Sablettes. The beautiful Azure water laps in front of colourful orange and yellow houses, it’s the perfect Instagram spot!

TOP TIP – Head to the Quai Impératrice Eugénie for the best photo spot (below).

Make sure to get lost walking around the cute narrow streets of Menton, don’t miss La Rue Piétonne and Les Marches, and check out the Rampe Saint-Michel and Rue Lépante (pictured below) for more photo opportunities.

Day 6:  Monaco

Just a 20 minute drive away from Menton is Monaco, a sovereign city-state, country, and microstate on the French Riviera. The tiny city-state is famous for its lavish wealth, casinos, and glamorous events such as the Monaco Yacht Show and the Monaco Grand Prix.

Top things to do in Monaco: – Have a drink overlooking the Port Hercule – Take a chance at the Casino Monte-Carlo – Head up to Avenue de la Porte Neuve for the best view of Monaco and the surrounding mountains. – Check out the unique architecture of the Cathedral de Monaco – Enjoy the view of Port de Fontvieille from the ‘Vue Panoramique sur Monaco – Fontvielle’ – Admire all the pastel-coloured buildings.

Day 7:  Eze, Villefranche-sur-Mer, Nice

Just 30 minutes down the road from Monaco is Nice, the capital of the Alpes-Maritimes department. Even though it’s a short drive I recommend making a couple of stops in the beautiful nearby towns of Eze and Villefranche-sur-mer.

Eze is a beautiful medieval town on a hill in-between Monaco and Nice. There are lots of cute streets to get lost in and an amazing view over the Mediterranean to admire. Make sure to check out the pastel coloured church and exotic garden.

The next stop to make is Villefranche-sur-mer, one of the prettiest towns in France! Similar to Menton the houses are super ciolourful and you also have lots of flowers everywhere! Make sue to walk down Rue Baron des Brès and head to the viewpoint on Boulevard Napolean III, the most instagrammable spots in Villefranche-sur-mer.

If you have time you should also drive to Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat to check out the beautiful   Villa et Jardins Ephrussi de Rothschild. The Villa Ephrussi was built during the Belle Epoque in the early 1900s, and features 9 themed gardens.  You can visit the house and gardens for €15 (€10 if you’re under 26).

https://www.instagram.com/p/B0yHpZNoALX/

Where to stay in Nice: I stayed at the AC Hotel Nice by Marriott which is right by the sea. They have nice spacious rooms and a super cool rooftop bar ( Farago on the roof ) with a swimming pool!

Day 8:  Nice

Sitting on the pebbly shores of the Baie des Anges, Nice is a great place to enjoy the sun whilst also having plenty of things to do.

Top things to see/do in Nice: – Visit the place Masséna and place Giuseppe Garibaldi – Stroll around Old Nice (make sure you go to Place Rossetti and Rue Rossetti) – Try some local food at Chez Rene Socca – Walk along the Promenade des Anglais and chill on the beach – Check out the beautiful Russian Orthodox Cathedral – Climb up Nice Castle Hill – Visit the local museums

If you’ve booked return flights from Marseille then it’s time to head back.

I hope you enjoy your road trip around Provence and the French Riviera, and fall in love with the South of France as much as I did! This road trip itinerary is for one week but you could also extend it to 10 or 14 days depending on how long you want to spend in each place.

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Top Things to Do on the French Riviera

Things to Do in Nice

Things to Do in Antibes

Things to Do in St. Tropez

Things to Do in Cannes

Things to Do in Monaco

Best French Riviera Beaches

Shopping in the French Riviera

Food to Try

Best Restaurants

Nightlife Guide

Best Time to Visit

Weather & Climate

French Riviera Airports

Top Destinations of the French Riviera

Best Hotels

Getting Around

One-Week Itinerary

One Week in the French Riviera: The Ultimate Itinerary

Elisabeth Pollaert Smith /Photographer's Choice/Getty Images Plus 

If you've got a week to explore the French Riviera, you'll have ample time to see the famed Mediterranean stretch of coastline in the south of France, and get a good sense of its highlights. You should also take some time to move inland, where a number of medieval villages perched high in the hills offer different perspectives on a region best-known for its beaches and high-end lifestyle. But how much time to spend in each place, and how to get from one point to the next? This guide takes the guesswork out of the equation, allowing you to make the most of your trip.

Your week in the French Riviera begins in Nice and Monaco, then moves westward to famous resort towns and beaches including Cannes, Antibes, and St-Tropez. Along the way, you'll also visit a couple of the region's most stunning "perched villages." We finish off the week at the west end of the Riviera, with a visit to the postcard-pretty town of Cassis and the natural wonders of Calanques National Park.

A note about getting around: We recommend renting a car to make travel between each point on the itinerary as smooth and convenient as possible, but with careful planning it's also feasible to get around by train and taxis.

Day 1: Nice

J.P. Nodler/The Image Bank/Getty Images Plus

Welcome to the Riviera! Your seven-day adventure starts in Nice, arguably the region's most beautiful major city and home to numerous cultural and historic treasures . After arriving at the local airport (or train station) and getting to the city center, check in to your hotel and leave your bags at reception if need be. You might want to grab a simple breakfast or early lunch from one of Nice's best bakeries.

Before venturing out for your first day, make sure you have a good map or map app on your phone, and figure out how you plan to get around the city, whether by bus, tram, or on foot.

Your adventure begins with a walk along the famous Promenade des Anglais, a 2.5-mile waterside boardwalk that offers stunning views over the Mediterranean, beaches, and the ornate facades of iconic buildings such as the Hotel Negresco. Weather permitting, take a dip in the water, or to relax and people-watch on the sand.

In the late afternoon, spend some time exploring Vieux Nice (Old Town), admiring its warm, Italian-style buildings, narrow streets, Cours Saleya and its bustling market square, and sites such as the former residence of French painter Henri Matisse. This is also a good time to browse boutiques for souvenirs or local products such as olive oils and lavender-scented soaps.

Next, ideally just before sunset, take the stairs or elevator at the end of the Quai des Etats-Unis to Colline de la Chateau (Castle Hill) , whose greenery-filled lanes and panoramic views regularly draw crowds. Once the site of Nice Castle and citadel, only the ground on which they stood remains-- but this remains a remarkable spot for sweeping views over the city, port, and Baie des Anges (Angel Bay).

Cap off your day in Nice with dinner at one of the city's restaurants, taking to the terrace if conditions are warm and clear. Make sure to reserve ahead during high season.

Day 2: Monaco and Menton

The Image Bank / Getty Images Plus 

Day two is already here! It's time to take advantage of Nice's proximity to other beautiful spots on the eastern Riviera.

Begin your day by heading the independent principality of Monaco , famed for its glamorous port, casino, gardens, and royal family. You'll then take an afternoon jaunt to nearby Menton, a picturesque town at the edge of the Italian border.

Drive or take the train from Nice to Monte Carlo (heading out early in the morning to allow for a full day of exploration). Stroll around the world-famous Port, with its superyachts and remarkable sea views—ones you may recognize from James Bond films and other movies. If desired, take a peek inside the iconic Casino, a palatial 19th-century building that also houses the Monaco Opera and Ballet.

Next, drive or take the bus to the Prince's Palace of Monaco, the former Genoese fortress that has been home to the Grimaldi royal family since the 13th century. You can visit the former, lavish quarters of Serene Highness Prince Rainier III and Grace Kelly; Albert II, the current-day Prince, still resides in the Palace.

Stop for lunch in the bustling central district as the La Condamine area. If time allows, visit the Place d'Armes, the principality's historic market square, before strolling through the Monaco Exotic Garden, boasting hundreds of species of succulents planted on hilly plots overlooking the sea.

In the afternoon, it's time to head east (around 30 minutes) to the photogenic town of Menton. For centuries, it was ruled by the monarchy of Monaco, and during part of the medieval period it was Genoan. The border town is thus rich in diverse cultural and historic influences, including Italian.

Spend the late afternoon exploring Menton's Old Town, endowed with handsome, pastel-colored mansions, an ornate Basilica, lush gardens, and a museum dedicated French film director Jean Cocteau. The Old Port and beaches are pleasant spots for a dip and late-afternoon aperitif as you watch the sun set over the water.

For dinner, either book a table in Menton, which is home to several noteworthy restaurants , or back in Monaco, where a glamorous nightcap at places like the Bar Americain at the Hotel de Paris Monte Carlo will ensure you end day two in style.

Day 3: Peillon and Eze

Michael Freeman /Corbis/Getty Images Plus 

On day three, you'll move inland to see two of the Riviera's stunning villages perchés (perched villages)—towns both built into precipitous hills and cliffsides during the medieval period, and now prized for their local art, culture, and architecture.

From Monaco or Menton, head northwest up sharply winding, steep roads to Peillon (around 50 minutes by car or taxi), a fortified medieval town that appears to have been built straight into the rocky hills.

Dating back to likely around the 10th century, the town looms dramatically above a deep valley, and offers some memorable vantage points over the surrounding landscapes. Spend the morning wandering through its snaking, narrow little streets and lanes, exploring boutiques and admiring the centuries-old houses. Stop for lunch at the Auberge de la Madone , a restaurant whose fine French cooking has landed it in the Michelin guide.

After lunch, it's time to head southeast to the perched village of Èze, situated in the foothills close to the coast between Monaco and Nice. Perched on a rocky bluff overlooking the sea, the medieval town is a joy to explore. Start by wandering through the meandering, narrow streets, admiring its stone facades and warm orange tile rooftops.

Step into the town's many shops, galleries, and churches, before visiting the ruins of the former castle. From the exotic gardens there, you'll enjoy sweeping perspectives of the countryside and sea below. Papaya Beach, located just below the perched village in Èze Mer, is a charming spot for a dip or dinner on the water.

Consider staying overnight in Èze at one of its romantic, quiet hotels (some with pool and/or spa), or drive back to Nice for the night.

Day 4: Cannes and Antibes

  Veronica Garbutt /Lonely Planet Images/Getty Images Plus

It's time to head back to the coast with an excursion to the city famous for its glamorous annual film festival and luxurious lifestyle: Cannes . You'll also hop over to arty Antibes , whose architecture and richly endowed museum collections offer plenty of culture for those who find Cannes a bit too heavy on the "glitz" factor and light on substance.

Since launching in the late 1930s, the Cannes Film Festival has brought global film stars and directors to red carpets, exclusive movie screenings, and offshore parties on yachts. It turned what was once a rather sleepy fishing village into an international destination for the wealthy and famous.

But the town has plenty to offer for those of us who don't hold VIP tickets to the festival. Arriving early in the morning from Èze or Nice (the trip takes around 70 minutes), start by taking a long stroll along La Croisette , the long boardwalk area flanked by sandy beaches, cafés and restaurants, and glamorous hotels.

Follow the Croisette eastward to the Old Port (Vieux Port), where you can admire its many jaw-dropping yachts and boats and enjoy beautiful perspectives over the sea and waterfront area. Pick a restaurant and, weather permitting, sit outside for an al-fresco lunch.

After lunch, take an hour or so to see the town center in Cannes, coveted for its high-end boutiques, restaurants, and hotels. Then hop in the car or take the bus to Antibes, located just 6 miles east. The centuries-old walled city has Greek and Phoenician origins, and occupies a site that was once called "Antopolis".

Spend the afternoon wandering through the cobbled, narrow streets and alleyways of Antibe's Old Town , and admire views over the water from various points. Visit the celebrated Picasso Museum , whose collections are housed in the Grimaldi Castle, a former defensive fortress belonging to Monaco's royal family. The museum also includes additional works of modern and contemporary art.

Next, visit one or more of the town's traditional markets, selling everything from flowers and olive oils to produce, cheeses, and local crafts, for a taste of local culture in Antibes.

In the evening, around sunset, descend down to  Port Vauban , the largest marina in the Riviera, to take in dusky colors and picturesque scenery. For dinner, head back up to the town above and choose a restaurant with dramatic views over the old city and Mediterranean sea beyond.

Day 5: St-Tropez

Tripsavvy / Ivey Redding

Day five brings you to another of the Riviera's most-famous waterfronts, and the sandy, wide beaches of St-Tropez. Long associated with sunbathing and tanning, it's still a prized destination by travelers even though many will now sit under umbrellas and slather on plenty of sunscreen.

The formerly quiet fishing village became a popular destination for tourists after French film star Brigitte Bardot starred in a 1956 movie shot in the town, "And God Created Woman." Since then, it's been a favorite among visitors looking for a slice of iconic Riviera style. Yet there's more to the town than the sunscreen bottles and movies suggest—it's rich in history, culture, and quiet beauty, especially during off-season.

Start your day in St-Tropez with a walk around the Vieux Port (Old Port), dotted with impressive yachts and restaurants ideal for people-watching. Stroll along the coastal path and head over to admire the remnants of the old fisherman's district, La Ponche, whose warm facades, tiny beach, and cobblestone-paved streets offer a glimpse at what the town was like before it became a tourist hotspot.

Head up to the Place des Lices for lunch, the traditional central square where Provencal-style buildings glow in the sun, and pétanque players throw metallic balls down sandy pitches while sipping pastis liqueur . On market days, this is one of the best spots for observing local life. If time allows, visit the St-Tropez Citadel, a 16th-century fortress that attests to the town's historical role as a defensive spot along the coast. The Maritime museum in the former dungeon is also worth visiting.

In the afternoon, as temperatures warm up, head to the beaches for swimming, sunbathing, or a longer coastal walk. Be aware that most of the best ones are a few minutes' away by car or bus from the center of town, along the Pampelonne Bay (in the adjoining municipality of Ramatuelle).

Pampelonne Beach is the most iconic, with its some 3 miles of white sands, turquoise waters, glamorous private clubs and restaurants. This is the place to see and be seen, but conditions are often quite crowded, so you might prefer quieter beaches on the bay or closer to St-Tropez's town center.

In the early evening, around sunset, head back to town to watch the sun set over the Port, and grab dinner out on a terrace. If you're after a nightcap, the town is famous for its lively bars and clubs, too.

Day 6: Hyères

Vanya Dudumova / EyeEm  

It's day six, and time to venture over to the far western side of the Riviera, an area that tends to be overlooked by international tourists (and prized by French travelers for its relative quiet). From Saint-Tropez, head to Hyères , considered by many to be one of the most beautiful and varied areas on the Côte d'Azur. With its medieval town nestled in the hills above the sea, wide, sandy beaches, protected islands rich with wildlife, and diverse cultural treasures, Hyères should not be missed.

Plan to arrive town in the early morning to make the most of your day there. Start with a walk around Old Town , a Provencal-style village whose fortified medieval walls, colorful market, winding, quiet streets, shops and restaurants are full of photogenic appeal. Pay a visit to the Villa Noailles , a 1920-era modernist house that once hosted the likes of painter Salvador Dali and photographer Man Ray. The sprawling house now holds a small museum dedicated to the history Hyères as well as a gallery that shows various exhibits throughout the year.

Have lunch down by the harbor or the beach, taking in the views over the water and the many boats bobbing in the Marina.

In the afternoon, consider hopping on a ferry to the nearby Port-Cros National Park and the "Golden Islands" offshore from Hyères (including the Porquerolles Islands). Clear waters, pristine sandy beaches, lush greenery, and abundant species of birds and fish await in the national park. Hiking, snorkeling, deep-sea diving, and swimming off of intimate, protected beaches are all possibilities, but make sure you come equipped for whichever activities you choose.

In the evening, head back to the mainland for dinner on the water, or enjoy a meal on the island of Port Cros .

Day 7: Cassis and the Calanques National Park

TripSavvy / Paula Galindo Valle

The last leg of your week on the French Riviera takes you further west to the pretty fishing village of Cassis , near the ancient port city of Marseille. While the latter is, oddly enough, not generally considered part of the Riviera, feel free to eke out some time to explore it, if you so choose-- or add an extra day to your itinerary if you can.

Nestled between Cap Canaille and the Calanques National Park, Cassis is simply one of the most beautiful villages along the western stretch of the "Côte d'Azur." Arriving from Hyères (around 60 minutes), start your visit of Cassis by heading directly down to the historic harbor area. Its picturesque boats, clear-blue water, and waterside restaurants are all familiar postcard images.

Next, spend a bit of time exploring the town itself, with its quiet streets and alleys, Provencal-style squares lined with warmly hued facades, and traditional shops.

After taking in the sights of the port and town, grab a table for lunch on the marina at restaurants such as La Villa Madie or Le Grand Bleu.

Around 2 p.m. (or even earlier during late fall and winter to seize more daylight hours), take a car or taxi to the nearby Calanques National Park, a stunning protected area of natural beauty. Make sure to wear sturdy shoes with good grip for hiking, a bottle of water, and bring a swimsuit for swimming and water sports in warm-weather months.

The park boasts dramatic cliff sides punctuated by meandering sea "creeks" (calanques in French), as well as protected coves and beaches ideal for swimming, snorkeling, boating, and other activities. Numerous species of wild birds and fish thrive at the reserve, which became a national park in 2012.

For dinner, head back to Cassis, or if you wish, to nearby Marseille, where you can choose from among the many decent restaurants on the historic Vieux Port (Old Port).

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Epic French Riviera Itinerary For 7 Days [2024]

• Post author: Nicoletta
• Reading time: 61 mins read
• Post last modified: January 26, 2024
• Post comments: 0 Comments

The French Riviera is the jewel of France . Everyone wants to experience the luxury, stunning beaches, delicious food, and their luck in the casino of the tax haven – Monaco. If you’re thinking of visiting the French Riviera, you’re right here .

I’ve visited the area many times. First, I came to explore it alone. Afterward, I guided travel groups to the French Riviera and gave them many of my travel tips. I also spent 2 weeks learning French in the Riviera, which was one of the best experiences of my life.

So, I’ve created a full itinerary and would love to give you my travel tips , too. Follow it and explore the highlights of the French Riviera.

✈ Travel Resources For Your Trip ✈

Here are some of my favorite travel resources I use for my travel adventures.

Overview Of The French Riviera Itinerary For 7 Days

Here is an overview of this 7-day itinerary to French Riviera:

French Riviera Itinerary Map

Here is a map of all the routes and places I recommend visiting on your road trip itinerary through the Riviera:

How To Get To The French Riviera

You can get to the French Riviera by plane, train, or bus .

Nice is the biggest city on the French Riviera, and the best and fastest way to get there is to fly. It has the  second-largest airport in France . So it’ll be easily accessible from any other corner of the world.

Alternatively, you can also take a train to the French Riviera. The train stops in the main cities like Nice, Cannes, or Antibes , and you can reach them by train from major French cities like Paris, Marseilles, or Lyon.

If you’re on a budget , the best way to reach the Riviera is by bus . All the buses travel to Nice, some stop in Cannes.

How To Get Around The French Riviera & Make This Itinerary

The best way to get around the French Riviera is by car . Even though the roads are curvy and narrow , you’ll have a lot of flexibility and don’t have to base your trip around public transportation. Make up your own schedule, follow this itinerary , and visit all the places on your road trip.

That’s why I’ve also designed this itinerary as a road trip . You can rent a car for 6 days (starting on day 3. of the itinerary).

RENT A CAR FOR YOUR ITINERARY

Rent A Car Via Discover Cars – best prices and big selection of car rentals. PRO TIP: Check ratings of the company you choose before booking ( ratings can be off ). Go on Google, see ratings of the car rental company, then book on Discover Cars.

Getting Around French Riviera By Train & Bus

You can also take buses and trains alongside the French Riviera. Note that the train only goes to major cities and countries like Nice, Monaco, Menton, St. Raphael, Cannes, and Antibes.

You can also take buses if the train doesn’t go to a place (e.g., St. Tropez).

Another great way to explore the French Riviera is to join organized excursions . Throughout the itinerary, I’ll recommend excursions with a local guide wherever it’s worth it.

➡ Book your trains in the French Riviera via Trainline.

➡ Book your buses in the French Riviera via Busbud.

0. DAY: ARRIVE IN NICE

Take your time to arrive in Nice. Check in to your accommodation and head out to the  old town  for a nice cup of coffee.

Then, walk alongside the English Bay –  “Promenade des Anglais,”  and get the first glimpse of its atmosphere. Or dip into the sea for a quick swim.

Dinner At Le Frog Restaurant

In the evening, I recommend you eat in the restaurant  Le Frog . Try the  traditional French frog legs  and finish with a delicious dessert. Don’t forget to try  ‘escargots’  French snails, which are delicious.

Have a great rest because tomorrow, we’ll explore the city with everything it offers.

Where To Stay In Nice: My TOP TIPS For Accommodation

Book your hotel in Nice for 4 nights as you’ll make many day trips. It’ll make the entire trip easier, as you don’t have to pack every other night, and the places you can visit from Nice are close.

HOTEL NAP BY HAPPY CULTURE – budget-friendly hotel LE CHATEAU – apartment for 4 people WATERFRONT PANORAMIC SEA VIEW – apartment WESTMINSTER HOTEL & SPA – mid-range hotel at the beach/English Bay HOTEL LA PEROUSE NICE – luxury hotel/English Bay HOTEL LE NEGRESCO – luxury hotel/English Bay

1. DAY: NICE

We are starting our itinerary in the heart of the French Riviera – Nice.

The city was  founded in the 4th century  by the Greeks. Its original name is  ‘Nike,’  the  Greek goddess of Victory . The  city used to belong to Italy.

The Italians were beyond grateful for helping them fight against the Austrians. They gained the Victory and gave the city the name ‘Nice.’ Then, they gave the city to the French as a present for helping them in the fight.

Sightseeing in Nice

Today, I highly recommend you explore the following sites in this beautiful city:

🔆 Vieille Ville 🔆 Nice Cathedral 🔆 Nice Castle 🔆 Parc de la Colline du Château 🔆 Musée Marc Chagall 🔆 Promenade des Anglais (English Bay)

Scroll through the streets of the  ‘Vieille Ville’  –  old town in Nice  before you make your way up to the castle. You can walk or take the tourist train to the  Castle of Nice . Go to the viewing point for the most  stunning views of the Promenade des Anglais  and the entire city of Nice. The views are breathtaking.

After, walk down through the  Parc de la Colline du Château . You can buy  a French baguette  with some cheese and eat it as a  picnic  on the way.

Walk through the  Promenade des Anglais  in the afternoon and swim in the sea.

🍕 DINNER RECOMMENDATION: La Rossettisserie Restaurant –  traditional French cuisine

Nice Guided Tours

The best way to explore the city is with a local guide. So I’ve got 3 guided tours in Nice for you. One is a cultural walking tour , where you’ll learn much about the history and get insights from a local guide.

Another is a food tour , where you’ll visit the Nice market and the best food spots. If you want to explore the city on a Segway and have fun, choose the guided tour on Segways below.

In case you want to see Nice and its stunning surroundings from a bus, book a sightseeing tour around the city:

2. DAY: NICE ⇒ MENTON & CAP FERRAT (DAY TRIP)

Today, we’ll make a day trip to one of the most picturesque towns on the French Riviera. It’s already close to the Italian border.

From now on, you’ll need a rental car , so rent one from today for 6 days (until the end of your road trip itinerary).

Distance Nice ⇒ Menton: 32 minutes by car (30 km/19 miles)

Welcome to Menton, also known to be the  Pearl of France . No wonder; it’s one of the most, if not the one, beautiful towns on the French Riviera.

It’s a  small town , so don’t expect much to do. Instead, soak up the atmosphere, walk through, and stay on its beaches for a while if you want.

There is a big part of the Russian community, so you can admire the beautiful  Russian church’s  unique architecture.

Other than that, you can visit the  Old Château Cemetery . It’s a resting place for many aristocratic British and Russians, taking holidays in the town and on the French Riviera. Or walk to the  Val Rahmeh Botanical Garden  for a little piece of paradise.

Lemon Festival In Menton

Each  February , locals organize a big event – the Lemon Festival. Menton is one of the  biggest European producers of citrus fruits , and this is the month to celebrate it.

You’ll enjoy  statues decorated with citruses , accompanied by musicians and dancers on the street. It’s one of the best times to visit the town.

On the way back to Nice, visit Cap Ferrat. Enjoy the spectacular ride on the coastline with stunning views.

Distance Menton ⇒ Cap Ferrat: 43 minutes by car on the coastal road (26 km16 miles)

Cap Ferrat is famous for its  luxury villas , one of which is open to visitors. It’s  Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild . You can  go inside  and see beautiful paintings, furniture, and sculptures from one of the richest families in the world.

It also hosts some of the  coziest beaches  on the French Riviera. Walk on the  Promenade du Cap , see its lighthouse, and stop on some beach.

Afterward, return to Nice and have a good rest.

3. DAY: NICE ⇒ MONACO (Day Trip)

Good morning to Nice. I hope you slept well because now, we’re about to visit one of the smallest countries in Europe and the European tax heaven . Monaco is waiting for us.

Distance Nice ⇒ Monaco: 30 minutes by car (20 km/12 miles)

Let’s explore this small country together today. Once you cross the border with Monaco, just  follow the sign ‘P’  to find the nearest car park.

Interesting Facts About Monaco

Monaco is famous for many things. Below, I’m giving you some interesting facts about this small European country:

💡 Monaco is a tax heaven 💡 Hosts the Grand Prix event 💡 Monaco is a principality 💡 3x James Bond movies were shot in the Monte-Carlo Casino in Monaco 💡 It’s the second smallest country in the world, after Vatican City 💡 It’s the place of the rich

Sightseeing In Monaco

Monaco is best to tour on foot. Leave your car in the car park and set off to explore it. Here are some sightseeing tips for your visit:

🔆 Palais du Prince  🔆 Stroll through ‘Le Rocher’ 🔆 Monte Carlo Casino 🔆 Walk in Jardine Exotique 🔆 Visit the Princess Grace Rose Garden 🔆 Monaco Harbour

🔆 Palais Du Prince & Le Rocher

Explore  Palais du Prince , the residence of the  Prince of Monaco . It was built back in the 13th century. You can visit it inside when the prince is not in his residence. Enjoy the views of the city from its terrace.

Don’t miss out on the  changing of the guards  at the Palace.

Le Rocher  is the old town of Monaco. It’s worth just walking through its tiny little street. You can stop by and visit  Monaco Cathedral  and get some local snacks. Look for ‘ barbarian,’  which is Monaco’s national snack.

🔆 Monte Carlo & Official Passport Stamp

What would be a visit to the famous  Monte Carlo Casino ? Check out its interior, where you can explore the casino itself and admire its  opera ,  ballet house , and the  Grand Theatre de Monte Carlo . 

It’s a complex of buildings, the main attraction here in  Monte Carlo . One interesting fact is that residents of Monaco are  not allowed to enter  and play in the Monte Carlo casino. But you have the privilege here if you want.

One thing you shouldn’t forget is to  get your passport officially stamped . You can do so in the  tourism office  located just a 2-minute walk from the casino.

If you want to shop for luxury goods, go to the  Avenue de Monte-Carlo .

🔆 Beautiful Gardens In Monaco

Jardine Exotique  is a very special place. I loved walking through this garden. It somehow has a very special atmosphere. Rest from Monaco’s hectic atmosphere and enjoy some nature for a while.

The  Princess Grace Rose Garden  is another highlight, especially for the  fans of the American film star Grace Kelly , who married Prince Rainier, the former prince of Monaco.

🔆 Monte Carlo Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour

Another great way to explore Monaco & Monte Carlo is on a bus or a tourist train. Get an unlimited hop-on and hop-off bus ticket .

It’ll show the whole country, and you’ll learn a lot about its history and hear some interesting facts .

Monaco Organized Tour From Nice

If you don’t like planning, join this organized guided tour to Monaco from Nice. It includes a private guide, transportation, and even a visit to Eze town.

4. DAY: NICE ⇒ CANNES

Let’s drive down south to the famous  festival city, Cannes . This is my personal favorite on the French Riviera. You can check out from your hotel in Nice today and move to Cannes, where you can stay for now.

It’s just its atmosphere, views, and the city itself that has really captured my attention. And I’m sure it’ll capture yours as well.

Distance Nice ⇒ Cannes: 40 minutes by car (33 km/20 miles)

Quick Facts About Cannes

The first settlement was found here back in the  2nd century  BC. Initially, it used to be a  fishing village . The city then served as a  medical base during WWI .

Have you ever heard about  Lord Brougham ? He was the man who  popularized Cannes , and nowadays, it’s trendy among  upper-class British tourists .

Cannes also became popular thanks to  Grace Kelly , the Hollywood actress, who chose the city as her  wedding venue .

Cannes Film Festival

Cannes has become famous mainly thanks to its film festival held annually in May. You’ll be able to see famous celebrities walking on the red carpet .

The festival recognizes celebrities’ achievements and rewards them for great movies. And you can be part of it.

I was in Cannes during the festival, and the atmosphere was absolutely crazy .

PRO TIP: So as you can see, it’s worth visiting French Riviera in May as many attractions take place; Cannes Festival , and also Grand Prix in Monaco.

Sightseeing In Cannes

Cannes is a typical  luxurious  destination where you can experience the  Holywood atmosphere , sit down on the seaside, and get a cup of coffee. Here are a few things you can do in the city:

🔆 Palace Of Festivals & Congresses 🔆 Le Croisette – celebrity street 🔆 Old Town 🔆 Casino 🔆 Château De La Castre 🔆 Marche Forville – traditional market 🔆 Old Port 🔆 Plage du Midi – beach in Cannes

One of my favorite places in Cannes is  Château de la Castre.  The castle was built in the 11th century to protect the city and its surroundings. It was also a place where monks lived.

It offers the  best views of the city  and sea. Although some trees interfere, the view is still stunning. Nowadays, it serves as a  museum .

After, walk through the old town and Le Croisette – the celebrity promenade. Don’t forget to check out Marche Forville , a traditional market, another city highlight.

Then, sit at a cafe next to the old port and admire some yachts.

Île Sainte-Marguerite

One of the attractions you shouldn’t miss is the Île Sainte-Marguerite . It’s the island where the Man in the Iron Mask was imprisoned . He spent 11 years of his life on this island.

Nowadays, you can see the prison visit a museum with its exhibition.

The excursion itself is amazing as you have to take a boat from Cannes mainland to the island. It takes about 15 minutes. So enjoy the ride and the Mediterranean atmosphere.

➡ Book ferry tickets to Ile Sainte-Marguerite Island here.

Where To Stay In Cannes: My TOP TIPS For Accommodation

MONDRIAN CANNES – luxury hotel at the old port RESIDENCE CARLTON RIVIERA – luxury apartments at the beach SEASIDE APARTMENT – at the beach (Plage du Midi) LE PANORAMER – apartnet at the beach

5. DAY: CANNES & DAY TRIPS

Good morning to Cannes. I hope you had some time to explore the city yesterday. If not, keep exploring today. For those who need some  adventure or more programs,  I have some extra things and  exciting day trips .

Today, you can choose from the following day trips from Cannes. There is one for every single one of you. So go for it and enjoy.

Day Trips From Cannes

These are the best day trips I recommend making from Cannes:

✅ Grasse & Fragonard Parfumery ✅ Verdon Gorge & French Lavender Fields ✅ Golden Corniche Coastline On A Speed Boat

✅ Grasse & Fragonard Parfumery

The Fragonard perfumery is a place that surprised me a lot. I’m not much into fragrances. However, a visit to the factory where they produce them blew my mind.

The Grasse town alone is charming , with cute cafes, restaurants, and a beautiful setting. So this day trip is for everyone who wants to put on that cute dress, explore a French town, and learn more about perfume making.

Distance Cannes ⇒ Grasse: 35 minutes by car (19 km/12 miles)

Learn how they  make fragrances in the world’s most prestigious perfumery, Fragonard .

It’s a  historical building  where they’ve been producing fragrances  since 1926 .

💡 FUN FACT: The staff has to first  study  at the university for around  7 years  to become professional fragrance producers.

You’ll smell different flavors, learn how they make it, and even see the whole process. At the end of the tour, the guide will test your nose with different fragrances,  playing their free olfactory game .

You can just show up;  you don’t have to book a tour in advance  as an individual.

After, spend time strolling through Grasse and enjoying its atmosphere.

✅ Verdon Gorge & Lavender Fields

Visit the  Grand Canyon of Europe  and the beautiful  lavender fields in the French countryside .

You’ll see the 700m high  Verdon Gorge  with stunning views. You can go swimming, kayaking, canoeing, or hiking to enjoy the stunning views.

After that, I recommend visiting two  quaint towns  in Moustiers, Sainte Marie and Castellane.

If it’s the season, you can also explore the famous  French lavender fields  during this day trip. The lavender season is from mid May until mid July . So, if you really want to see them, plan your trip accordingly.

✅ Here is the lavender field spot.

Organized Excurion To Verdon Gorge & Lavender Fields

You can also join this organized excursion to see Verdon Gorge and the best lavender fields with a local guide.

✅ Catamaran Cruise

Enjoy a cruise on a catamaran alongside the French Riviera. Sunbath, jump into the sea from the boat, enjoy lunch, snacks, and a glass of wine on board.

You can also go snorkeling, kayaking, or paddleboarding . Have fun on board with your private skipper and hear interesting stories about Cannes and the Riviera from a local.

Catamaran Cruise With Activities

Book this catamaran cruise from Cannes if you want to enjoy the French Riviera from the sea, including lunch and activities.

Enjoy one of these day trips on the French Riviera. In the evening, take some time to walk on the seaside promenade and alongside the harbor in Cannes and have a good dinner.

👉 READ ALSO: Best Of South Of France Itinerary For 14 Days

6. DAY: CANNES ⇒ SAINT TROPEZ

Good morning to Cannes. I hope you had an amazing time and did one of the excursions I recommended.

In the morning, pack your bags and drive further south to  Saint-Tropez , another luxury destination.

Distance Cannes ⇒ Saint-Tropez: 1 hour & 30 minutes by car (84 km/52 miles)

Saint-Tropez

Welcome to another nestle of the rich on the French Riviera.  Saint-Tropez was a tiny fishing village  before it gained popularity thanks to the movie  Mystère à Saint-Tropez . It’s a  hub for celebrities  and has become a wealthy town with  expensive shops and luxury yachts .

Sightseeing In Saint-Tropez

Here is what I suggest doing in St. Tropez during your visit:

🔆 St. Tropez Citadel 🔆 Museum Of Maritime History 🔆 Old Port 🔆 Beaches

One of the most exciting things in the town is its  citadel on the hill . Visit it and get some of the best views of the town and its seaside promenade. It was built to protect the area from the  innovations of Spanish forces .

Later in the 19th century, the citadel couldn’t keep up with the  modern artillery shells . So, instead, it was converted into a naval museum. Nowadays, you can visit the  Museum of Maritime History .

Other than that, just walk around and feel the atmosphere of the  popular celebrity destination .

Don’t forget to buy the famous  Sandales tropéziennes , handmade sandals that celebrities used to wear. They are made from leather that resists saltwater.

Saint Tropez and its surroundings also host some of the most  beautiful beaches  on the French Riviera. Tomorrow, on the last day of your road trip, you’ll get the chance to visit some of them.

Where To Stay In St. Tropez: My TOP TIPS For Accommodation

VILLA COSY, HOTEL & SPA HOTEL DE PARIS SAINT TROPEZ HOTEL BYBLOS RESIDENCE EXCLUSIVE RESORT

7. DAY: PLAGE D’ESCALET / PLAGE DE GIGARO

Finally, take some time to relax on the beach and  reflect on your itinerary . I have two of the most beautiful beaches around Saint Tropez for you.

If you are into beaches and want to spend your last day relaxing and swimming , I’ve picked up two beaches around St. Tropez.

Plage d’Escalet

Plage d’Escalet is located  22 minutes drive  from Saint Tropez. There is  parking  at the end of the road, so leave your car there.

After, walk about  5 minutes to the beach . It’s a little hidden beach, so if you want to enjoy a bit more  privacy , go for it unless there are many people.

Plage de Gigaro

Plage de Gigaro is situated  25 minutes drive  from Saint Tropez. It’s a  bigger beach  with better views of the sea and a promenade. There are also  spots to have lunch .

It’s more equipped than Plage d’Escalet.

👉 READ ALSO: Medieval Castles In France To Perfect Your Itinerary

Practical Tips For Visiting The French Riviera

I’ve also got some tips for visiting to help you plan your trip to the French Riviera even further. See how many days you should spend, what budget you’ll need, and when the best time to go is.

How Many Days Do You Need To See The French Riviera?

4 – 7 days is the perfect time to spend on the French Riviera. 4 days is the minimum time to enjoy its stunning towns, beaches, and delicious food. If you want more excursions to the Provence, spend 7 days on the Riviera.

What Is The Best Month To Go To The French Riviera?

The best times to visit the French Riviera are May, June, and September .

May is great because the weather is pleasant (not too hot), and most of the events are organized this month, such as the Cannes Film Festival or the Grand Prix in Monaco . So if you want to experience them, plan your visit in May.

June is a great month to see the lavender fields in Provence , and it is still slightly less crowded than the peak summer months.

September is another great month to visit the French Riviera as it’s less crowded, prices are lower , and the weather and the sea temperatures are perfect.

Budget For Your Trip To French Riviera

The budget for a 7-day road trip to French Riviera per person ( mid-range traveler ) is $1105 . This is a very realistic budget for mid-range travelers who want to stay in nice hotels, rent a car and travel conveniently, enjoy the beach, and each location’s activities.

Here is a breakdown of this itinerary budget for each travel category:

So the total budget for a 7-day trip to the French Riviera , without restricting yourself too much and enjoying everything it offers, is $1105 per person .

Budget Breakdown For Different Traveler Styles

Here is a quick overview of the budget for every type of traveler:

➡ 7-day itinerary budget for backpackers and travelers on the budget: $550 ➡ 7-day itinerary budget for mid-range travelers : $1105 ➡ 7-day itinerary budget for luxury travelers : up to $3000

NOTE: This is an approximate budget based on my calculations and spending during my 7-day trip to the Riviera. The budget will vary based on every traveler’s preferences .

Is French Riviera Safe To Visist?

Yes , the French Riviera is safe to visit. There is nothing to be worried about. I didn’t even feel the danger of scams and pickpockets.

According to the Global Residence Index, Monaco is the 4th safest country in the world , and the entire French Riviera reflects it.

I’ve also answered some frequently asked questions about the French Riviera. Check my answers below:

What Is The Best Way To Travel Along The French Riviera?

The best way to get around the French Riviera is by car or joining an organized excursion . With a car, you’ll have a lot of flexibility , can get to all the places, and don’t have to rely on public transportation.

Another great way is to book a tour with a local guide if you dislike planning or driving alone.

Where Do You Base Yourself On The French Riviera?

Nice is the best base to explore the French Riviera. The city is in the middle of the Riviera, and everything is easily accessible. It’s the biggest city on the Riviera, so all the tours and excursions are mostly organized from Nice.

Can You Get Around The French Riviera Without A Car?

Yes , you can get around the French Riviera without a car. You can take trains to the major towns or buses to the smaller towns.

The best way to get around if you don’t have a car is to join organized excursions with local guides. This way, you can just enjoy and skip the planning process.

Is There A Train In The French Riviera?

Yes , there is a train in the French Riviera. It goes through the main cities like Toulon, Antibes, Cannes, Nice, and Menton. And you can also reach Monaco by train.

WRAP-UP: French Riviera Road Trip

This is my itinerary for the French Riviera. It’ll show you its highlights , including some of the most beautiful places in Provence . If you want to avoid crowds, I recommend visiting the places in June or September . It gets calmer, and there are fewer people, yet the weather is warm, and you can swim.

It’s also a great spot to learn French in a French school, like I did. So don’t hesitate to make it your base for a few weeks. Learn French and explore the area while practicing your French skills.

If you have any questions or need help planning your trip , contact me at info(at)voicesoftravel.com . I’ll gladly help you.

Happy Travels!

More Tips For France Travel

Looking to visit more places in France? Check out my related articles:

Best Of South Of France Itinerary For 14 Days

Medieval Castles In France To Perfect Your Itinerary

5 Best Trains From Paris To Switzerland: Ultimate Guide

Fastest Way From Paris To Zermatt: Revealed!

About the author: Nicoletta  is a travel enthusiast and passionate language learner. While traveling, she loves to connect with locals using her language skills to learn about new cultures. Look for her skiing, hiking in the mountains, or exploring new destinations as she designs travel itineraries for her clients.

FRANCE: Interested in more articles for France? Check out my France Travel Page :

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