The French Riviera is one of the most beautiful places in the world. It is also known as the Côte d’Azur. This region in southeastern France is famous for its blue waters, sunny weather, and glamorous cities. From small fishing villages to luxury towns, the French Riviera has something for everyone.
I recently traveled through the French Riviera. Every stop felt like a postcard. Let me take you on a journey to the best places to visit in this dreamy part of France. If you’re planning a trip, this list will help you pick the most scenic, relaxing, and exciting spots.
Nice: The Heart of the French Riviera
Nice is a great starting point. It is the biggest city in the French Riviera. The airport here is the second busiest in France after Paris, so it’s easy to reach.
Walk along the Promenade des Anglais. It runs beside the sea and is full of people walking, biking, and rollerblading. The pebbled beach is simple, but the color of the water is deep blue and very clear.
Visit the Old Town, also called “Vieux Nice.” This area is full of narrow lanes, colorful buildings, local markets, and cafes. Try the local snack called socca. It’s a thin chickpea pancake, very crispy and delicious.
You can also climb Castle Hill (Colline du Château) for a beautiful view of the city and coastline.
Cannes: Where Glamour Meets the Sea
Cannes is famous for its film festival. Every May, celebrities from all over the world come here. Even when there’s no festival, the city still feels stylish.
Take a walk along La Croisette. This is a beautiful street next to the beach. It has palm trees, fancy shops, and luxury hotels like the Carlton and Martinez.
The public beaches in Cannes are nice, but some are private and belong to hotels. You can pay a fee to use them. They offer sunbeds, food, and drinks.
Go to the old part of town called Le Suquet. It is on a hill and has pretty streets and a nice view of the harbor.
If you like shopping, head to Rue d’Antibes. It has both French boutiques and international brands.
Antibes: A Mix of History and Beaches
Antibes has a calm and charming feel. It is less busy than Nice and Cannes. You’ll love the relaxed vibe here.
Visit the Picasso Museum inside the Grimaldi Castle. Picasso once stayed in this castle and painted many works here.
The beaches around Antibes are sandy and great for swimming. Plage de la Salis is one of the best public beaches.
Walk along the old city walls and enjoy the sea view. The Port Vauban is also here. It’s one of the largest marinas in Europe, and you’ll see many luxury yachts.
If you have time, stop by Cap d’Antibes. It has beautiful walking trails and hidden beaches.
Èze: A Village in the Sky
Èze is a small medieval village between Nice and Monaco. It sits on a cliff and gives amazing views of the Mediterranean Sea.
Walk through its narrow stone paths. There are art shops, galleries, and cozy cafes. Every corner is photogenic.
Visit the Exotic Garden (Jardin Exotique d’Èze). It is full of cactus plants and offers a breathtaking view from the top.
You can also visit the Fragonard Perfume Factory nearby. They offer free tours, and you can learn how perfume is made.
Monaco: The Land of Luxury
Monaco is not just a city. It’s a tiny country on its own. But it feels like part of the French Riviera.
The most famous area is Monte Carlo. It’s known for the fancy casino, luxury hotels, and fast cars.
Visit the Prince’s Palace. It is the home of Monaco’s royal family. You can see the changing of the guard every day at 11:55 AM.
Take a walk in the Old Town, also called Monaco-Ville. It’s on a hill and has a peaceful, old-world charm.
The Oceanographic Museum is also worth a visit. It’s built on the edge of a cliff and has amazing sea life exhibits.
If you like Formula 1 racing, Monaco hosts the Grand Prix every May. It’s one of the most famous races in the world.
Menton: The Pearl of France
Menton is one of the last towns before you reach Italy. It’s known for its lemon trees and gardens.
The town has a soft, colorful look. Buildings are painted in shades of yellow, orange, and pink.
Walk along the promenade or relax on the beach. The sea is calm and clean.
Don’t miss the Jean Cocteau Museum. Cocteau was a French artist who loved Menton, and his work is displayed here.
In February, Menton celebrates a Lemon Festival (Fête du Citron). There are big floats and sculptures made from lemons and oranges. It’s fun and very unique.
Saint-Tropez: The Famous Fishing Village
Saint-Tropez used to be a small fishing village. Now it’s one of the most famous beach towns in the world.
In summer, it is full of celebrities, yachts, and party vibes. But you can still find peaceful corners.
Walk around the Old Port and see the luxury boats. Sit at a café and people-watch. The town square, Place des Lices, has old men playing pétanque under the trees.
Visit the Citadel of Saint-Tropez for great views. You’ll also find a small museum about maritime history.
The beaches here are famous. Pampelonne Beach is the most popular. It’s long, sandy, and has many beach clubs like Club 55.
Villefranche-sur-Mer: A Quiet Bay with Big Beauty
Just a few minutes from Nice, this town is a hidden gem. It has one of the prettiest bays in the world.
The beach is sandy and great for swimming. The water is calm and clear.
Walk through the colorful streets. The old town is small but very charming.
Stop by the Saint Pierre Chapel, painted by artist Jean Cocteau. It’s small but very unique.
The harbor area is peaceful and a great place for lunch or dinner by the sea.
Cagnes-sur-Mer: Where Renoir Once Lived
This town is quiet and friendly. It has a mix of modern areas and old-world charm.
Visit Haut-de-Cagnes, the medieval part on the hill. You’ll find Château Grimaldi and stunning sea views.
The famous artist Renoir lived here. His house is now a museum. You can walk through the garden and see his painting tools.
The seafront area has a long promenade, beaches, and plenty of restaurants.
Cap Ferrat: Luxury and Nature Combined
Cap Ferrat is one of the most expensive places in France. But it is also peaceful and full of natural beauty.
Take the walking trail around the peninsula. You’ll see cliffs, pines, and the endless sea.
Visit the Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild. This pink mansion has beautiful gardens and sea views. The inside is just as lovely.
Beaches like Paloma Beach are small and clean. Great for a relaxed swim.
Fréjus: History and Sandy Shores
Fréjus has both Roman history and good beaches. It’s a great place for families.
Visit the Roman amphitheater and the ancient aqueduct. Walk around the old town and visit the Cathedral of Saint Léonce.
The beaches are long and sandy. Kids will enjoy the Luna Park nearby, especially in the evening.
Saint-Raphaël: A Sunny Coastal Escape
This town is next to Fréjus and has a calm, happy vibe.
Go for a boat ride or take a train to see the red cliffs of the Esterel Mountains. The colors of the sea and rocks are amazing.
Walk along the seafront and try some fresh seafood. The town is small but has good energy.
Grasse: The World’s Perfume Capital
Grasse is a bit inland, not far from Cannes. It smells amazing. This town is where many famous perfumes are made.
Visit a perfume factory like Fragonard, Molinard, or Galimard. They offer free tours, and you can even make your own perfume.
The Old Town is lovely to walk around. Stop by the Cathedral of Notre Dame du Puy and enjoy the views from the hill.
Final Thoughts
The French Riviera is more than just a vacation spot. It’s a feeling. A soft breeze on your skin. The scent of lavender and fresh sea air. The taste of rosé on a sunny afternoon.
Each town has its own charm. Some are quiet. Some are fancy. But all are beautiful in their own way.
If you ever get the chance to visit, take it slow. Sit by the sea. Wander the streets. And just enjoy the simple beauty that the French Riviera gives so freely.
It’s a place that stays with you, long after you’ve left.
