Best Things to Do in the French Rivera
Cote d'Azur has all the glitz and glamour you’d expect, but so much more. Learn about the beaches, dining, and charming villages.
The French Riviera, or Côte d'Azur, is a Mediterranean paradise with a blend of luxury, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you're drawn to the glitz of Cannes and Monaco or the old-world charm of Nice and Antibes, this coastal haven offers something for everyone.
Relax on pristine beaches, sail through turquoise waters, or explore vibrant markets brimming with Provençal delights. For the culturally curious, marvel at architectural gems like the Ephrussi de Rothschild Villa or wander historic promenades and medieval towns.
Adventurous travelers can hike the scenic coastal paths of Cap Ferrat, cycle through lavender fields in Grasse, or take a road trip along the iconic Corniche roads. Culinary enthusiasts will savor Provençal cuisine at Michelin-starred restaurants or rustic seaside bistros.
Top Things to Do in the French Riviera
The French Riviera is a playground of luxury, culture, and adventure. Here, you'll find everything from historic villages and glamorous beaches to breathtaking hikes and world-class cuisine. Below are some of the best things to do in the French Riviera, offering a glimpse into the region's irresistible charm.
Discover unique things to do in the French Riviera by exploring its picturesque hilltop villages. Wander the cobbled streets of St. Paul de Vence, known for its medieval charm and galleries showcasing works from Picasso and Matisse. Perched on a cliff, Eze Village offers panoramic views from the Jardin Exotique. For breathtaking vistas, hike to Gourdon, a quaint village filled with artisanal shops. Known as "the village in the sky," Tourtour is famous for its August festival, complete with pétanque competitions and dancing. Mougins is a haven for food lovers, celebrated for its culinary heritage and the International Gastronomy Festival.
The French Riviera's coastal glamour and hidden beaches offer some of the best things to do in Côte d'Azur. Escape to Plage de Passable in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat for stunning views and water sports. Spot celebrities at Paloma Beach, a tranquil cove that's half-private and half-public. Take a ferry from Hyères to Porquerolles, rent a bike, and explore unspoiled beaches. People-watching and rosé await at Plage de Pampelonne, the iconic St. Tropez beach. For a quieter escape near Cannes, head to Théoule-sur-Mer with its golden sands.
Immerse yourself in things to do in Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur by exploring the region's rich art and history. Tour the Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild, a stunning Italian Palazzo with nine themed gardens overlooking the Mediterranean. Discover one of the finest collections of Picasso's works at the Picasso Museum in Antibes. Admire the serene stained-glass windows of the Matisse Chapel in Vence. Explore the ancient Roman ruins at Fréjus, including an amphitheater and triumphal arch. Visit the tranquil Abbaye de Sénanque, surrounded by rows of lavender fields.
A food lover's paradise, things to do in the French Riviera include savoring local flavors. Wander through the Cours Saleya Market in Nice, brimming with flowers, handicrafts, and Provençal produce. Taste world-renowned rosés and reds in the Bandol Vineyards west of Toulon. Visit the vineyards of Châteauneuf-du-Pape to sample their legendary wines. Enjoy a meal surrounded by original art at La Colombe d'Or in St. Paul de Vence. Or dine in style on the Croisette in Cannes at Z'Plage Beach Restaurant, perfect for people-watching.
Adventure seekers will find unique things to do in the French Riviera amid its diverse landscapes. Kayak or drive through the stunning limestone canyon of the Gorges du Verdon, Europe's most beautiful gorge. Hike the Cap Ferrat Coastal Trail for incredible sea views. Take on the iconic climb of Mont Ventoux, a Tour de France landmark. Explore the serene Lérins Islands off Cannes, rich in nature and history. Finally, spot wildlife, hike rugged trails, and discover prehistoric rock art at Mercantour National Park.
Things to do in French Riviera with Kids
A family vacation in the French Riviera is a sun-soaked adventure filled with charming villages, sandy beaches, and exciting activities for children of all ages. Here are some of the best things to do with kids on the French Riviera for an unforgettable experience.
Treat your family's taste buds with a chocolate-making experience led by a master chocolatier. This engaging, hands-on workshop is one of the most unique things to do in the French Riviera and allows kids to learn the art of creating delectable treats. They can play with different flavors, design their own chocolate creations, and savor their masterpieces at the end. It's a delightful and educational activity that will have kids brimming with excitement.
Take the family on a half-day tour of the medieval village of Eze and the breathtaking Three Corniches coastal road. The kids will be fascinated by the narrow, cobbled streets, exotic gardens, and scenic views from the Jardin Exotique perched high above the Mediterranean. Along the way, stop to admire the stunning landscapes and discover the perfume-making secrets of the famous Fragonard Perfume Factory. It's one of the best things to do in the French Riviera.
Monaco is a treasure trove of kid-friendly attractions. Visit the Oceanography Museum for fascinating underwater exhibitions or witness the daily changing of the guard at the Prince's Palace. Explore the Formula 1 Museum, showcasing racing cars from the Monaco Grand Prix. Cap off the day with a stroll through the glamorous harbor, admiring luxury yachts and savoring ice cream along the way. Exploring Monaco is one of the most unique things to do in the Côte d'Azur.
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FAQs for Things to Do in the French Riviera
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The French Riviera is famous for its glamorous beaches, luxurious lifestyle, and picturesque villages. It's home to world-renowned events like the Cannes Film Festival and the Monaco Grand Prix, attracting celebrities and racing enthusiasts alike. The Riviera also boasts unique things to do in the French Riviera, like exploring the artistic legacy of Picasso and Matisse in Antibes and Vence or savoring Provençal flavors at local markets. The region's blend of natural beauty, chic resorts, and historic towns makes it one of Europe's premier destinations.
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A 4-day itinerary is perfect for experiencing the best things to do in the French Riviera. Start with Day 1 in Nice, where you can explore the Old Town, visit the vibrant Cours Saleya Market, and stroll along the Promenade des Anglais. Take a half-day trip to Èze to visit the Jardin Exotique and tour the Fragonard Perfume Factory. On Day 2, head to Monaco to visit the Oceanography Museum, the Prince's Palace, and the Formula 1 Museum before spending the afternoon in Menton, known for its lemon groves and colorful old town. Day 3 offers the glamour of Cannes, with a stroll along La Croisette, a visit to the Cannes Film Festival Palace, and a tour of the Picasso Museum in Antibes. Wrap up your trip on Day 4 with a visit to Saint-Paul de Vence, where you can explore galleries and the medieval streets, tour the Colombe d'Or Hotel, and finish with a tour of Grasse's perfumeries and lavender fields.
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When shopping for souvenirs and unique things to do in the French Riviera, consider iconic finds like lavender products from Grasse and Provence, perfumes from famous perfumeries like Fragonard, Galimard, and Molinard, and high-quality olive oil from the region. Brightly colored Provencal pottery from local markets, classic French sailor-striped shirts (marinières), and truffle products like oils, salts, and spreads are also must-have souvenirs.
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Rain doesn't have to ruin your plans. There are still plenty of things to do in the French Riviera. The Oceanography Museum in Monaco offers a fascinating underwater world to explore, while the perfume factory tours in Grasse let you discover the art of perfumery and create your own scent. At the Picasso Museum in Antibes, you can immerse yourself in the artistic legacy of Picasso or tour the stunning mansion and art collection at the Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat. Sip afternoon tea at the luxurious Belle Époque Le Negresco Hotel in Nice, browse designer boutiques along La Croisette in Cannes, and visit the indoor Forville Market.
To book your visit to one of France's most exclusive regions, fill out our online contact form below. We're on hand to help you arrange every detail, from where you'll stay to the food you'll eat.
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