What to do in the French Riviera
What is there to see on the French Riviera?
The French Riviera offers you an adventure full of remarkable sites. The coastline, but also the inland, promises you busy days or, on the contrary, moments of absolute relaxation. If you are wondering what to see on the French Riviera, here are a few must-sees that bear witness to a rich natural and cultural heritage.
The treasures of the coastline
Menton, the last French town at the gateway to Italy, promises fascinating visits all year round thanks to its particularly mild climate. Menton, a city of art and history, is full of architectural and cultural treasures. Don’t hesitate to go for a stroll through the fragrant Menton gardens for a day of intoxicating scents. Monaco is a superb city nestled on a cliff and its view of the Mediterranean Sea as well as its unique atmosphere will amaze you. Even as one of the smallest countries in the world, Monaco offers majestic gardens, steep coves and renowned restaurants. As soon as the sun sets, you can watch from the casinos the city lights glittering all along the coast. Cannes has an atmosphere of its own, where the beaches mingle with the markets. The La Bocca market in Cannes will seduce you with its Provencal specialities: you must try the famous Pan Bagnats or Pissaladières. On the other hand, the Croisette is a famous promenade in Cannes, located between prestigious hotels and the hypnotic spectacle of the waves. During your trip to the French Riviera, don’t forget to visit Antibes, a fortress-like city and the Port Vauban. The old part of Antibes is magnificent at dusk when the sun sets over the sea. Nice is equally admirable with its historical Promenade des Anglais, palaces and ochre-coloured houses. Not far from Nice and the Promenade des Anglais, discover the Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat peninsula and its marina, where you can relax and enjoy an exceptional view of the sea before setting off on an adventure in the inland of Provence.
Villages and picturesque landscapes
The many villages, from the most famous to the hidden gems, will make your holiday an unforgettable getaway. Saint-Paul-de-Vence will add a medieval dimension to your stay, one you can discover on a day’s walk in the region. Discover the French Riviera and the charming Provence off the beaten track in Saint-Paul-de-Vence. Discover the art galleries, the cobbled streets and enjoy a wonderful view of the sea. A visit to Saint-Paul-de-Vence on the French Riviera is a must if you want to see a different side of this region. Offering a completely different atmosphere, Saint-Tropez and its famous port take you to a village that combines jet-set and authentic charm. Saint-Tropez, a world-famous town is THE place to be on the French Riviera if you want to discover the most exclusive part of France and admire the luxurious boats in its port… Most of them belong to celebrities! Grasse is also a village not to be missed, perched on the hills of Cannes. Its panoramic views, calming atmosphere and its authenticity are must-sees. Wander through the narrow streets of Grasse and admire the houses dating back to the 17th to the 19th century. But you can’t leave Grasse without tasting its famous courgette flower beignets. Grasse is also known for its various activities and the charm of Provence will make your holiday one to remember.
A remarkable natural heritage
Not to mention the beaches and cultural highlights of the French Riviera and Provence, nature has made the region its home. The roads along the coastline are among the most beautiful in Europe, with the red rocks blending with the blue sky and sea. Go on a thrilling road trip with a mix of winding and straight roads, always close to the sea. You can discover all the wonders of the Massif de Esterel, whether you choose to admire it from Cannes or by going directly to the site – the Massif de Esterel is a marvel. Volcanic rocks, lakes, cliffs… Holidays on the French Riviera are like holidays in the American desert. The French Riviera’s natural heritage never ceases to amaze visitors from all over the world with its landscapes. However, the Verdon Gorges remain a treasure and their turquoise waters are as beautiful as they are effervescent. Indeed, the Verdon Natural Regional Park offers enough to delight all adventure and sensation lovers, such as canoeing, climbing or hydrospeeding! There are thousands of things to discover whilst holidaying in this region! The view from the top of the cliffs of the Verdon Gorges is a Provencal treasure not to be missed. If you are wondering what to do in the French Riviera – rest assured, there is a diverse range of atmospheres, experiences and points of interest to choose from, depending on what you want to do. From hilltop villages to marinas and nature parks, the south of France has everything you need for a wonderful trip.
Discover the islands of the Mediterranean
Porquerolles, one of the most beautiful islands in the Mediterranean, is a superb little piece of unspoilt nature of the Hyères Islands. In the centre, farmland is surrounded by vineyards and hiking trails. You’ll also find the fine sandy beaches and be able to visit them for a day of relaxation and sunbathing by the sea. Also located in the Hyères Islands, Port-Cros has a beautiful national park. You can take advantage of the calm and clear sea to have a go at diving. The Saint-Honorat Island has a magnificent cultural heritage, including a recently renovated monastery and fortifications. The monks who still live on this island produce a very renowned wine. The Sainte-Marguerite Island invites you to stroll along its many paths that criss-cross the countryside. Don’t miss the visit of the royal fort dating back to the 17th century and the sea museum. Finally, the Ile du Levant (Levant Island), is only partially accessible, as it is the domain of the French Navy. Its beaches are particularly appreciated by naturists who can relax and bathe there without constraints.