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Show allThe Authentic Villages of the La Roya Valley
La Roya Valley is a spectacular valley that runs from the town of Tende on the French-Italian border right down to the coast before winding back into the Italian countryside. Vallee de la Roya covers over 40 kilometers of ground and winds its way through beautiful countryside, remote farmland, and the mighty Southern Alps. The valley isn’t just a place of outstanding beauty, home to traditional French settlements and small authentic villages, it’s also a region of France that’s bursting with history and was once occupied by Italy during WWI. Fun fact - the valley only became a part of France in 1947 and today a segment of it still belongs to the Italians.
Sospel - France
Discover Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat
Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat is a coastal town nestled between Beaulieu-sur-Mer and Villefranche-sur-Mer. You’ll find the town on France's southern coast, just 6-miles east of Nice. This former fishing village became a popular destination in the early 20th century. Around this time, Europe's wealthiest residents flocked to the area to build grand villas and regal second homes. Today these beautiful buildings remain part of Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat's landscape, and the town still attracts big spenders and Europe's elite travelers. The area enjoys a year-round warm climate, an abundance of lush greenery, and coastal trails that offer spectacular Meditteranean Sea views. There's little wonder why the unspoiled Saint-Jean territory makes for a great vacation.
Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat - France
The Picturesque Village of Saint-Martin-Vésubie
Known as ‘Nice’s Little Switzerland’ the picturesque village of Saint-Martin-Vesubie sits in the Provence-Alpes-Cote d'Azur region of Southeastern France and is considered to be the gateway to the Mercantour National Park. Set amidst 3,600 hectares of forest, and home to several peaks over 3000 meters including Le Gelas (the tallest peak in the Alpes Maritimes department), this pretty little town is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. In winter the area sees an influx of downhill skiers and snowshoers while summer brings with it warmer weather, well-seasoned hikers, and nature enthusiasts who flock to the area to admire the array of native flora and fauna including Fario, Rainbow, and Salmon trout (all of which have made the nearby Lac du Boren Peche their home).
Saint-Martin-Vésubie - France
Antibes - The pearl of the Mediterranean
While many travelers flock to the larger towns of Cannes, Nice, and Monaco on France’s Côte d’Azur, the smaller resort town of Antibes should be given just as much weight as the others. This glistening Mediterranean resort town sits just a 30-minute drive west of Cannes (or a short boat ride along the coast) and is known for its bustling nightlife, vibrant restaurant scene, and its historic Old Town protected by 16th-century ramparts. If you want the glitz and glam of the French Riviera, with the rustic charm of a medieval French town, look no further than Antibes.
Antibes - France
Marseille - The oldest city in France
Tucked neatly on France’s southern coast, equidistant between Montpellier and Nice, the port town of Marseille is the oldest city in France and one of the oldest towns in Western Europe. Originally founded in 600 B.C by the Greeks as ‘Massalia’ the port town quickly became one of the most important trade routes of the ancient world and played a great role in the civilization of the Mediterranean.
Marseille - France
Corsica - the Island of beauty
The mountainous Mediterranean island of Corsica sits off the south coast of France and appears to be its little continent. The island, which was formerly part of Italy, has been a popular holiday destination with Parisians for years, and it's no wonder why. Home to prosperous coastal towns, jagged cliffs, and endless hiking trails, Corsica provides a welcome escape from the mainland's nuances.
Corsica - France
Villefranche - A nice and picturesque old town
The Villefranche-sur-mer is a seaside resort located at the foot of the Alps, on the Mediterranean eastern coast, in the French Riviera. This picturesque town is a few miles away from Nice and its Alpes-Maritimes setting makes it a favorite among tourists visiting the Côte d’Azur. Among its prime attractions are the Villefranche pebble beach and the bay’s deep natural harbors that are great for swimming enthusiasts. For those looking to experience the region’s exotic cultural and historical sites, the Citadel of Villefranche-sur-mer, the Saint Elme Citadel, Amelie’s market and the St Michel Church are some of the best places to visit in Villefranche. By and large, its rich maritime, as well as cultural diversity and its proximity to Nice, make Villefranche a great spot to shop, grab a bite while on route to the far side of Mont Boron, or enjoy an adventure to its well-kept and colorful hill town.
Villefranche-sur-Mer - France
The medieval town of Eze
The French Riviera is one of the best vacation spots in the world. If you’ve never been there, you don’t know what you’re missing. Èze is located along the Côte d’Azur, with the town running from the Èze-sur-Mer to the Èze Village. It’s a commune of sorts, replete with both beaches along the Mediterranean to a medieval village. If you’re looking for a destination, this may be the perfect spot for you.
Eze - France
The breathtaking city of Mougins
Olive groves, cypress trees, and lush green forests characterize the commune of Mougins. This little town sits in the district of Grasse in the wider Cannes region and is as pretty as they come. As far as medieval villages go, Mougins has it all, including the desirable hilltop location and ancient houses. The town has seen its fair share of historical celebrities too. Picasso, Cocteau, and Paul Eluard have all graced Mougins with their presence. Today the area draws travelers from the heart of Cannes out into the countryside to enjoy a taste of rural France.
Mougins - France
The Roman town of Fréjus
The town of Frejus sits on an ancient naval base near the city of Saint-Raphael. Frejus is known as a city of art and culture and is home to several museums and galleries that showcase the heritage of the region. The town has also managed to preserve several historical monuments and artifacts which make its appearance rustic and charming. Head to Frejus Old Town, and you'll find the Roman remains of multiple buildings, including a baptistery that dates back to the 5th century!
Fréjus - France
Menton - The last town on the French Riviera
The coastal town of Menton marks the end of the French Riviera on the east side. In fact, it's the very last town on the south coast before crossing the Italian border. Known as the 'Pearl of France,' Menton doesn't disappoint and offers an authentic glimpse into the luxuries of the Cote d'Azur. On the whole, Menton is a welcomed extension of the coast.
Menton - France
Things to do
Shopping on Cote d’Azur
It’s no secret that the South of France is an area well known for its acquired taste in luxury living, and when it comes to shopping this affluent region has a real flair for fashion and a lot to offer for shopaholics. Dare to drag yourself away from the alluring arrondissements of Paris’s fashion district and you’ll be rewarded with a sunsoaked shopping haven on Cote d’Azur and when it comes to shopping, the French Riviera does not disappoint. From upmarket department stores like Galeries Lafayette (whose flagship store you’ll find in Paris) to independent art galleries including the Sheun Gallery in Nice, the array of shopping available on Cote d’Azur covers a variety of tastes and, believe it or not, can be tailored to suit all budgets.
France
Boat activities on Cote d'Azur - France
The French Riviera, also known as the Cote d'Azur, is found on France's south-east coast and overlooks the glistening Mediterranean Sea. Known for its dazzling sand beaches, upmarket resort towns, and glamorous casinos, the Cote d'Azur has been a popular holiday destination with some of the world's wealthiest travelers since the 18th century. While boutique shops and Michelin-starred restaurants are certainly points of interest on the coast, one of the biggest draws is the array of water-based activities available. From yacht rentals, private boat tours, parasailing excursions, water sport rentals, and jet ski hire, the list of aqua-excursions is endless! Our simple guide to boat rental on the French Riviera takes a look at the different watersports available along the coast and the range of yacht and boat rentals available. After all, no visit to the Cote d'Azur can pass by without a day at sea.
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Events and festivals on French Riviera
The Cote d’Azur is abuzz with glitz and glamour all year round but it’s the summer months that really get the party started on France’s sought-after south coast. Events and festivals are held every month and range from theatre performances and music festivals to cinematography celebrations and yacht races. A-listers, millionaires, and outright party people flock to the shores of the Mediterranean for a summer to remember as seaside towns and secluded beaches become the stomping ground for a summer of fun. Below we take a look at some of the best events and festivals on the Côte d’Azur and provide a handy event guide to help you plan your dream trip.
France
Top activities on Cote d'Azur
The scenic stretch of coastline known as the Cote d’Azur winds its way along France’s south coast from Saint Tropez to Menton, encompassing the chic towns of Cannes, Nice, and Monaco along the way. The area is known as a playground for the rich and famous, and a glamorous holiday destination for those looking to soak up the very best of the French Riviera. When it comes to Cote d’Azur attractions, there are plenty of things to do and places to visit along the coast to keep all character types entertained. Whether you’re exploring Nice’s charming Old Town on a free walking tour, people-watching at Monte Carlo Harbor, or admiring 19th-century art in Cannes, the Cote d’Azur doesn’t disappoint.
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South of France by car
With 71 miles of winding corniche roads, numerous quaint Provincial villages to visit, and endless soft sand beaches to stop at and enjoy some sun-soaking, France’s Cote d’Azur is one of Europe’s dreamiest road trip destinations. Rent a car on the French Riviera and the Mediterranean Sea and the charm of southern France is at your fingertips! On your Riviera road trip, you’ll wind your way around a variety of landscapes, soak up a diverse range of cultures, and enjoy spectacular views of the surrounding coastline. After all, there’s no better way to navigate the coast than to do so with the comfort and freedom of your own vehicle.
France
Nightlife on the French Riviera - Cote d'Azur
The French Riviera is renowned for its glitz and glam appeal, hedonistic summers, and over the top attitude to partying, all of which make it a popular destination with those looking for a lively social scene. Jazz cafes, trendy bars, and glamorous night clubs line the sparkling coast and visitors can choose between splashing the cash at an invite-only beach party or rubbing shoulders with A-listers at one of the best clubs in the world. Whatever your entertainment taste may be, the Cote d’Azur has a little something for everyone.
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Best restaurants on Cote d'Azur - France
Famous for its designer fashion brands, rolling vineyards, and historic monuments, France is a country with a lot to offer but it’s the nation’s gourmet cuisine that draws millions of visitors year after year. French dishes, which are usually full of flavor, made using simple ingredients, and boasting great finesse, have been replicated around the globe by passionate chefs aiming to try their hand at traditional dishes and haute cuisine. Below we’ve looked at some of the best restaurants in the south of France. Whether you’re looking for fine dining at a Michelin-starred restaurant (France is home to the highest number of Michelin-starred restaurants in the world) or hearty French cuisine at an authentic bistro, we’ve covered all dining options to suit every taste in this restaurant guide.
France