4 Days in the French Riviera: The Ultimate Côte D’Azur Itinerary
The French Riviera, or Côte D’Azur, is a dazzling stretch of Mediterranean coastline in the south of France. Known for its azure waters, luxurious resorts, and charming towns, this region is a magnet for sun-seekers, celebrities, and anyone with a taste for the good life.
The French Riviera is where the sun shines brighter, the yachts are bigger, and the Mediterranean views are simply magnifique! Join me on a whirlwind tour of this glamorous coastline to help you plan your perfect Côte D’Azur itinerary.
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ay 1: Exploring Nice
Day 1: Exploring Nice
We chose Nice as our base, staying in a cozy Airbnb near the city center. Nice—a city that's not just nice, but downright delightful with its blend of French elegance and Italian flair, the perfect place to start your adventure.
The smooth stones create a unique and picturesque shoreline, contrasting with the clear blue waters of the Mediterranean
Morning: We kicked off our day with a tip-based walking tour, which is a fantastic way to get acquainted with the city’s history and major sights. The tour is free to book, but a tip of around €10–€15 per person is appropriate. Alternatively, there are multiple guided tours on the Get Your Guide app. These tours last for 2–3 hours and are incredibly helpful for those who wish to get their bearings and visit the must-see spots without the hassle of planning. Some of the places covered in the tour included Place Massena, Promenade du Paillon, Opera House of Nice, Nice Old Town, Cours Saleya Market (where we sampled local delights like socca and Pissaladière), Palais de Justice, Palais de la Préfecture, Place Rossetti, and Promenade des Anglais.
Fun Fact: Did you know that many buildings in Nice feature trompe-l'oeil paintings—an art technique that creates the optical illusion of three-dimensional details? It’s like living in a real-life Picasso painting!
Bustling Cours Saleya Flower Market, Colorful Blooms and Local Flair
Indulging in Traditional Delights and Local Flavors by tasting Pissaladière at Cours Saleya - Onion, Anchovy, and Olive Tart Delight
Panoramic View of Promenade des Anglais in Old Nice, French Riviera
Afternoon: After the tour, we hiked up to Castle Hill (Colline du Château), which offers panoramic views of the city and the sparkling Mediterranean Sea. It’s a bit of a climb, but the vistas are worth it. There's also a lift available, although it was out of order during our visit. The waterfall on our way down was a delightful surprise, and the port of Nice looks stunning from above. We then wandered through the charming streets of the Old Town (Vieux Nice), exploring narrow lanes and vibrant markets. We loved getting lost in the narrow streets of Vieux Nice, discovering hidden gems, and soaking in the local atmosphere. I couldn’t resist picking up some souvenirs from the bustling market.
Stunning Panoramic Views from Castle Hill (Colline du Château) in Nice, French Riviera
Beautiful Waterfall at Castle Hill (Colline du Château) in Nice, French Riviera
Baroque Architecture and Vibrant Colors of Old Church and Graveyard at Nice Castle, France
Souvenir Shopping in Nice Old Town - Authentic Gifts and Keepsakes
Exploring Old Town Nice’s Historic Charm and Vibrant Atmosphere
Evening: As the sun began to set, we walked along the famous Promenade des Anglais and relaxed on the pebbly beach. For dinner, we enjoyed an interesting meal at Bocca Nissa, a Mediterranean restaurant, where we pushed our culinary boundaries with dishes like sea bass and shrimp (I admit, back in India, they remove the shell for you, and removing it by ourselves was quite the process). After dinner, we wandered back to our Airbnb via Place Massena, soaking in the evening ambiance of this charming city.
Sea bass ceviche is a raw dish marinated in citrus juice, typically lime, which 'cooks' the fish through a chemical process. It's known for its firm texture and fresh flavors, popular for its lightness and zesty appeal
A traditional Nice dish featuring succulent shrimp, a local favorite renowned for its Mediterranean freshness and rich flavors. A culinary delight that captures the essence of the French Riviera's vibrant culinary heritage
Savoring creamy gelato in Nice, a beloved local treat capturing the essence of Italian influence on the French Riviera's culinary scene
Conversation à Nice’ - Highlighting the shimmering statues of Masséna Square in Nice, designed to symbolize dialogue and connection among cultures. These buddha sculptures enhance the city’s cultural ambiance, inviting reflection and interaction in the heart of the French Riviera
Day 2: Eze and Monaco
Day 2: Eze and Monaco
Morning: After having breakfast our plan was to catch a bus to Eze, but after a long wait, we found it packed. Luckily, we met another Indian couple at the bus stop heading in the same direction, and we decided to share a Bolt cab ride (€15–€20). Eze, perched on a hilltop, is one of the most picturesque fairytale villages on the Riviera. We started with a visit to the Fragonard Perfume Factory, which is free to enter and includes a guided tour. Then we climbed up to the Exotic Garden (Jardin Exotique), which offers stunning views of the Mediterranean (€7 entry, open daily from 9 am to 6:30 pm, but costs and timings may change during different months).
Explore the heritage of fragrance-making in this picturesque hilltop village
Discovering the secrets of fragrance creation and learning the art and history of perfume-making at Fragonard
Couldn't resist! Splurging on fragrances from Fragonard Museum in Èze Village—I blame the allure of the French Riviera's scents!
Taking a break and sipping from the whimsical female figure drinking water fountain in medieval Èze Village
Uncover winding cobblestone streets and ancient architecture, with stunning views that inspired Nietzsche's philosophical musings
Exploring the exotic cactus garden in Èze Village, a hidden gem on the French Riviera known for its rare succulents and breathtaking Mediterranean views. Discover a vibrant oasis where arid beauty thrives against the backdrop of azure seas
Breathtaking view from the top of the hill in Èze Village, overlooking the exotic cactus garden and the stunning French Riviera coastline
Afternoon: From Eze, we took a bus to Monaco (note that the train doesn’t stop in Eze—the Eze train station is quite far from the village). Monaco greeted us with more luxury cars than a Fast & Furious movie. In Monaco, we visited the famous Monte Carlo Casino and went inside the building to the atrium and decided to skip the main casino area as we didn’t plan on gambling. (Click on the link for a more detailed guide on Casino de Monte Carlo rules and regulations, ID requirements, dress code, pricing, and opening times) Like many tourists, we stopped to gawk at the luxury car parade by the Casino, then strolled through the posh surroundings (entry fee: €17, with ID required, open daily from 2 pm to 4 am). We had burgers for lunch at Steak ‘n Shake—surprisingly affordable in this glamorous city.
Standing in front of the iconic Monte Carlo Casino, famously featured in many James Bond films
The famous Casino Royale in Monte Carlo, Monaco
Explore the opulent interior of the Monte Carlo Casino atrium, where visitors can admire the grandeur of Monaco's iconic landmark without any entry requirements.
Monaco is famous for hosting the annual Formula 1 Grand Prix, a thrilling event that attracts visitors from around the world. Later, we visited the Prince's Palace and enjoyed the beautiful views from the hilltop.
Tip: To witness the Monaco Yacht Show, visit Monaco in late September and see over 100 luxury yachts and cutting-edge marine innovations in the iconic Monaco Harbour
Stunning View of Monaco Harbour
The Prince’s Palace of Monaco
Breathtaking Aerial View of Monaco at Night: Illuminated Skyline and Stunning Coastal Scenery
Evening: After witnessing the palace guards perform the sunset flag ceremony, we called it a day and returned to Nice via train, dreaming of the day when we might return to Monaco aboard our own yacht (hey, a traveler can dream, can’t they?).
Additional Tips:
Visit the Oceanographic Museum (€19 entry, open daily from 9:30 am to 8 pm) for fascinating marine exhibits.
Check out the nightlife in Monaco if you have time.
Day 3: Cannes and Antibes
Day 3: Cannes and Antibes
Morning: We took a train to Cannes from Nice (€8 onwards, 30 minutes) and joined another tip-based walking tour. While Cannes is famous for its film festival, I found it less charming compared to other Riviera towns. I must admit that I had high expectations from this popular filmy destination but was quite let down by the fact that it was quite dull without the glitz and glamour of the red carpet. However, the tour covered key sights like the Palais des Festivals and La Croisette.
Discover Cannes Old Town: A Historic District Featuring 12th-Century Architecture and Picturesque Cobbled Streets
Explore the Cannes Local Food Market: Fresh fruits, vegetables, cheeses, and popular street foods like socca (chickpea pancakes) and pan bagnat (stuffed sandwiches) from local vendors
Cannes Horse Police have been a tradition since the 19th century, and their horses are meticulously trained to navigate the city's bustling streets, providing both a historic charm and a unique touch to Cannes' security
Capture the Iconic Cannes Sign: A Popular Landmark on the Croisette Promenade, Offering Stunning Views of the Mediterranean and a Photo Opportunity for Visitors
Afternoon: Next, we headed towards Antibes, my favorite spot on the Riviera. We stopped briefly at a beach along the way to enjoy the views and soak in the sun. Antibes stole our hearts with its old town charm and Picasso Museum (almost, but it was closing—timing is everything, right?). Port Vauban’s yachts were so big, we wondered if they came with their own zip code. Falafel, a restaurant in Antibes, served us the best shawarma this side of the Mediterranean, proving once again that great adventures and great food go hand in hand.
Somewhere on the mediterranean coast between the Cannes and Antibes
Antibes stands out on the French Riviera with its unique view of the snow-capped French Alps, a rare and breathtaking sight we were fortunate enough to enjoy on a clear day
Explore a historic castle showcasing Picasso's groundbreaking Cubist and Surrealist paintings. Discover how his innovative techniques and unique vision revolutionized modern art while enjoying stunning Mediterranean views
Stroll down Rue Aubernon in Antibes: A charming street lined with quaint shops, local cafés, and historic architecture, capturing the essence of the town’s vibrant character and Mediterranean charm.
Taking a flavorful break, we chose Lebanese food in Antibes—an affordable and refreshing change from our French Riviera culinary adventure
Evening: Port Vauban in Antibes hosts some of the world’s most opulent yachts, boasting the largest port in Europe—larger even than Monaco’s. Strolling past these magnificent vessels was a sight to behold. The nightlife was lively, with myriad bars and restaurants. As night fell, Antibes came alive with twinkling lights and we vowed to return for more adventures in this gem of the Riviera.
Europe's largest yacht port in Antibes, showcasing a diverse fleet of yachts that create a vibrant and picturesque marina scene
Owned by a prominent luxury brand, this sleek vessel is a symbol of opulence
Discover Fort Carré in Port Vauban: A historic 17th-century fortress with panoramic views of Antibes and its harbor, highlighting its strategic and architectural significance
Stroll down a picturesque street in the old town center of Antibes, France
Additional Tips:
Visit the Absinthe Museum (€3 entry, open daily from 2:30 pm to 7 pm) because sometimes, a green fairy is just what your day needs.
Enjoy the beaches of Antibes, which are less crowded than those in Nice or Cannes.
Cannes is probably a more exciting visit during the film festival if you are traveling to the French Riviera at any other time I suggest you skip it and do Antibes instead.
Once a popular drink in 19th-century France, absinthe's allure captivated artists and intellectuals. Today, Antibes retains traces of this legendary spirit in its cultural heritage and local traditions
Day 4: Menton
Day 4: Menton
Menton is known as "The Pearl of France" for its stunning beaches, pastel-colored buildings, and fragrant lemon groves. The best time to visit is from late May to early September, with a special highlight being the vibrant Lemon Festival in February. As the last village before Italy, Menton offers a unique blend of French and Italian charm. Don’t miss the beautiful Jardin Serre de la Madone, the relaxing Plage des Sablettes, and the picturesque Old Town with its breathtaking views from the Basilique Saint-Michel. Indulge in local delights like Socca and Tarte au Citron while soaking in this hidden gem's serene beauty.
Morning: We took a train to Menton (€6 and upwards, 40 minutes), storing our luggage in Ventimiglia (Italy) as we had an afternoon train to Milan. Menton, known as the "Pearl of France," is famous for its citrus fruits and beautiful gardens. We strolled through the old town, visited the Basilica of Saint Michael the Archangel (free entry, open daily from 9 am to 6 pm), and relaxed in the stunning gardens overlooking the sea.
Ascend the famous iconic stairs to the Basilica of Saint Michael in Menton, framed by photogenic pastel-shaded buildings
Menton, known as the 'Pearl of France,' earns its name from its stunning beauty and unique microclimate, which allows lush gardens, vibrant citrus fruits, and a picturesque coastline to flourish along the French Riviera
Afternoon: After a leisurely lunch, we returned to Ventimiglia to catch our train to Milan, bidding a fond farewell to the enchanting French Riviera.
Additional Tips:
We found that traveling to Ventimiglia, dropping our luggage, coming to Menton, and then traveling back to Ventimiglia to pick up the luggage left us a little short on time. I recommend taking a whole day to explore Menton. Alternatively, if you are short on time, then you can choose to skip Menton and explore Ventimiglia instead (if you are headed to Italy like we were).
Exploring the Regions of Southern France
The south of France is divided into several distinct regions, each with its own unique charm:
Provence: Known for its rolling lavender fields, historic towns like Aix-en-Provence, and delicious cuisine. If you visit during the summer, consider extending your trip to see the lavender fields in full bloom (late June to early August). The scent and sight are unforgettable.
Côte d’Azur: The glamorous coastline from Saint-Tropez to Menton, encompassing famous cities like Nice, Cannes, and Monaco—where luxury meets the sea, and every moment feels like a VIP experience.
Languedoc: Less touristy than Provence and Côte d’Azur, with beautiful beaches, medieval towns, and excellent wine regions.
Travel Tips and Practical Information
Train Travel: Always check and validate your train tickets at the yellow machines before boarding. Fines can be steep for unvalidated tickets.
Travel Times: Nice to Cannes (30 min), Nice to Monaco (20 min), Nice to Eze by bus (45 min). And don’t forget the train: Cannes to Antibes (20 min), Antibes back to Nice (another 20 min). The train journey along the coast ranks among Europe’s most scenic, offering breathtaking sea vistas.
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit is from April to September when the weather is warm and festivals abound. This area gets a lot of sun and is a popular holiday escape for the French as well. In April, the sun sets around 8 pm, and in summer, the days are even longer, allowing for more sightseeing and the Riviera’s magic is in full swing.
Extra Activities and Extended Stays
If you have more days to spare, consider these additional activities:
St. Paul de Vence: Art galleries, medieval magic, and views that belong in a museum (or at least on Instagram).
Grasse: The perfume capital of the world, where you can visit perfume factories and create your own scent.
Saint-Tropez: Famous for its beaches and nightlife, ideal for a day trip or an overnight stay.
Lavender Fields: June to August—when Provence bursts into purple, and your camera roll bursts with envy-inducing photos.
Sunset Boat Cruise: Wine, snacks, and a sunset that turns the sea into a canvas—all aboard for the most romantic night on the Riviera.
Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild: Explore this stunning villa and its beautiful gardens.
Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat: A picturesque peninsula with scenic walks and beaches.
Villefranche-sur-Mer: A charming seaside town with a lovely harbor.
Gorges du Verdon: Often called the "Grand Canyon of Europe," this natural wonder offers hiking, kayaking, and breathtaking views.
Famous Films Shot in the French Riviera
The French Riviera has been a backdrop for many famous films, adding to its glamorous appeal. Here are a few notable ones:
To Catch a Thief (1955): Directed by Alfred Hitchcock and starring Cary Grant and Grace Kelly, this classic was filmed in and around Cannes, Nice, and Monaco (IMDb rating: 7.4).
Ronin (1998): Featuring Robert De Niro, this action thriller includes scenes shot in Nice (IMDb rating: 7.3).
Mr. Bean's Holiday (2007): This comedy features Mr. Bean’s adventures through Cannes and the Riviera (IMDb rating: 6.4).
French Kiss (1995): Starring Meg Ryan and Kevin Kline, with beautiful scenes set in Cannes and Nice (IMDb rating: 6.6).
The Transporter (2002): Filmed in various locations across the Riviera, including Nice and Cannes (IMDb rating: 6.8).
Dirty Rotten Scoundrels (1988): This comedy starring Steve Martin and Michael Caine was shot in and around Villefranche-sur-Mer (IMDb rating: 7.4).
Heartbreaker (2010): A French romantic comedy filmed in Monaco and Nice (IMDb rating: 6.7).
And don’t forget Bollywood’s love affair with the Riviera:
Tamasha (2015): Starring Ranbir Kapoor and Deepika Padukone, with scenes filmed in Corsica and various locations in the French Riviera.
Befikre (2016): Starring Ranveer Singh and Vaani Kapoor, shot extensively in Paris and the south of France, including Nice and Cannes.
The French Riviera’s blend of natural beauty and cinematic allure makes it a perfect destination for travelers and filmmakers alike.
By sharing my personal experiences and tips, I hope to inspire you to explore this stunning region and create your own unforgettable memories on the French Riviera. Bon voyage!
