The French Riviera, also known as the Cote d’Azur, is a stunning region in the southeast corner of France that stretches along the Mediterranean coastline from the Italian border to Saint-Tropez. With its stunning coastline, picturesque villages, and glamorous resorts, the French Riviera is synonymous with the Good Life – and it’s a popular spot for good reason. By far, one of my all-time favorite vacations.
I traveled alone to Nice, France in December of 2019 and felt very safe. (I also went to Barcelona…equally amazing!) Here is your ultimate guide to the French Riviera:
Best Time to Visit:
The French Riviera is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit is from May to September when the weather is warm and sunny, and the beaches are at their best. That said, I visited in December when it was less crowded and less expensive 😉
How to Get There:
The easiest way to get to the French Riviera is by flying into Nice Cote d’Azur Airport, which is the largest airport in the region. From there, you can rent a car or take public transportation to your destination. (Note: In my experience, many of the taxis only accepted cash!)
Where to Stay:
The French Riviera has many glamorous resorts and hotels to choose from, but some of the best areas to stay include Cannes, Nice, and Monaco. For a more budget-friendly option, consider staying in smaller towns like Antibes or Menton.
Things to Do:
- Explore the Old Town of Nice – This charming neighborhood is filled with narrow streets, colorful buildings, and quaint shops and restaurants.
- Visit the Cannes Film Festival – If you’re lucky enough to be in town during the festival, you’ll have the opportunity to see some of the biggest names in Hollywood.
- Take a day trip to Monaco – This tiny country is known for its luxurious casinos, stunning palaces, and scenic views of the Mediterranean.
- Hit up the beaches – The French Riviera is famous for its beautiful beaches, including Plage de la Garoupe in Antibes, Paloma Beach in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, and Plage de Pampelonne in Saint-Tropez.
- Visit the Museums – The region has many great museums to explore, including the Picasso Museum in Antibes, the Chagall Museum in Nice, and the Oceanographic Museum in Monaco.
Where to Eat:
The French Riviera is known for its incredible cuisine, and there are many great restaurants to choose from. Some of the must-try dishes include bouillabaisse (a fish stew), ratatouille (a vegetable stew), and socca (a chickpea pancake). Some of the best restaurants to try include La Colombe d’Or in Saint-Paul-de-Vence, Le Louis XV-Alain Ducasse in Monaco, and La Petite Maison in Nice.
The French Riviera in a word? To me, glamorous. It truly is a stunning destination that is totally worth the hype.
