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Visit Europe - Travel more and spend less
Looking to discover the most unique places to visit in Europe? Want to hear more about some of the most beautiful and prestigious coastal destinations in Europe? Ready to create your own legendary experience? Good news - you've come to the right place. In this article, we're going to take a look at some of the very best countries across Europe. Below we'll cover where to go for a city break, a romantic getaway, a family or beach holiday, a cultural or gastronomic trip.
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

Gorges du Verdon - The European Grand Canyon
The Gorges du Verdon, otherwise known as the Grand Canyon du Verdon, is one of the most beautiful river canyons in all of Europe. It flows down from the Verdon River and is about 700 meters deep and 25 kilometers long. It is truly breathtaking. If you know anyone who’s visited the Gorges du Verdon, then you’ve already heard of how amazing this site really is. As if the pictures aren’t amazing enough, you can travel the lakes of the Verdon by kayak. While it’s not the kind of place you would stay for your vacation, it’s close enough to the French Riviera that you can certainly make a day trip or two to enjoy its vista. Because it is so close to the Côte d’Azur, it’s a popular tourism spot for vacationers from all over. If you’re heading to the French Riviera for your holiday, you don’t want to miss out on all the best things to do in Gorges du Verdon.
Gorges du Verdon - France

Isola 2000 - Amazing ski resort by the Mediterranean
When it comes to skiing in Europe, it’s all about the Alps. Isola 2000 Ski Resort is a ski resort nestled in a basin in the southern part of the French Alps Mountains above the quaint town of Isola. It is located near the entrance of the Mercantour National Park, approximately 4 kilometers from the Franco-Italian border and 90 kilometers from Nice in the French Riviera. The Station du Mercantour is one of three ski resorts in the Mercantour National Park. The “2000” part of the name recognizes that it is 2,000 meters above sea level. It also has a resort summit of 2,610 meters. This makes it the highest resort in Alpes-Maritimes which includes Nice, Cannes, Antibes, and Grasse.
Isola 2000 - France

Porquerolles - A unique island
The crescent-shaped island of Porquerolles is the largest of the three Illes d’Hyeres islands. You’ll find it off the southern coast of France, just a 10-minute boat ride from Hyers Port. This sun-soaked island is a true slice of paradise! Furthermore, the island offers a tranquil escape from the buzz of nearby Toulon and Saint-Tropez. Upon arriving on Porquerolles, you'll find very little road noise as cars on the island are few and far between. Instead, locals and visitors explore on foot or by bike! Days can be spent on the island exploring soft sand beaches, hiking the coastal trails, and taking to the Mediterranean Sea on a scuba diving excursion.
Hyères - 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

The charming village of Saint Paul de Vence
As one of the oldest medieval towns on the French Riviera, Saint Paul de Vence really packs a punch. The town is home to both contemporary and modern art galleries, Renaissance churches, and a castle that dates back to the 14th century. Saint Paul de Vence is the ideal destination for a culture-filled vacation in southern France.
Saint-Paul-de-Vence - France

Port Cros - Close to paradise
Port-Cros National Park is a remote island and marine national park found off the coast of Toulon. All 690 acres of land on the island are protected and combine to make a picture-perfect landscape. Turquoise lapping water, lush green forest, and the Mediterranean sun all combine to make Port-Cros a paradise.
Toulon - 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

Nice - The capital of French Riviera
In 2018, France was the most visited country in the world, raking in roughly 89 million people and 220 billion dollars in tourist spending, making tourism one of the largest industries in the country. From the urban metropolis of Paris to the towering mountains of the French Alps, France has something to offer to everyone. But often times, one of the most overlooked locations in France is Nice City, also known as Nice Ville. Located in southern France, Nice is a gem of the Mediterranean. Originally founded by the Greeks in the third century B.C., the city has since grown into a bastion of tourism for France, bringing in 5-10 million tourists every year by plane or private plane.
Nice - France

Cannes - World capital of cinema
The French Riviera, also known as Côte d’Azur, is located on the southeast coastline of the Mediterranean and has plenty of opportunities for you to visit and get to know the country. One of the most beautiful spots on the Riviera is Cannes, the world capital of cinema, the city of stars and glam with its villas facing the sea, islands and superyachts. The Cannes French Riviera has the longest hot summers, with around 300 days of nice weather per year, which makes it a perfect destination for tourists all around the world.
Cannes - 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
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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

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.
France

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

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.
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.
France

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