The Côte d'Azur, or the French Riviera, in the South Eastern corner of France is home to some of the best-loved Gallic towns and cities. It has been the playground of the rich and famous since the 19th century and all of its allure remains today.
Here are ten reasons why you should travel to Cote d'Azur for your next France holiday.
Reasons to Travel to France
1. Cannes
What is the French Riviera known for? The magical city of Cannes which hosts the annual film festival. While this is what it’s most famous for, there are so many other fantastic things to see and do in Cannes. It isn’t a big city, so you are able to visit the vast majority of the sights on foot. Explore the local food market, which is situated right in the centre of the city, where you can sample some of the top local delicacies. From olives to cheeses, even escargots, as well as lots more amazing authentic French food.
The beachfront in Cannes is a sensational stretch of shoreline, with the main crescent (La Croisette) going from the Old Town to overlook the Palais de Festivals (the main venue for the Cannes Film Festival). The walk along the coastline will take you past a number of different hotels, including the world-famous Carlton Hotel, where ‘To Catch a Thief’ starring Grace Kelly & Cary Grant was filmed. The building is a clear focal point on the Croisette due to the hotel’s Belle Epoque façade; a style that is seen throughout the French Riviera.
2. Monaco
Wherever you stay when you visit the French Riviera, you can easily take a day trip to Monaco, the second-smallest independent state in the world. The Mediterranean climate makes Monaco a fairy-tale place that joins mountains and sea. It is said that, in Monaco, 300 days a year are bright and sunny. It also has the most iconic racing track in the world; the annual Formula One Monaco Grand Prix actually runs through the city and is a fantastic experience to witness, even for those who are not big fans of motorsports.
French Riviera travel must include discovering Monte-Carlo, where you will get a taste of real glamour and experience one of the most famous casinos in the world. The Monte-Carlo Casino opened in 1863, making it nearly 160 years old. It was founded by Prince Charles Grimaldi to help generate revenue and save the royal family from bankruptcy. It has also been used as the backdrop for many famous films, including the James Bond film GoldenEye and Ocean’s Twelve. If you have time, go to Monaco Harbour, where you may spot some incredible vessels, including Prince Albert’s main yacht. You could also visit the Prince's Palace and see the changing of the guard ceremony.
3. St. Paul-de-Vence
Take an excursion to the medieval hilltop town of Saint-Paul-de-Vence when you visit the French Riviera. Here, you can find many contemporary art museums and galleries such as Fondation Maeght and the Musée de Saint Paul. Walking around St. Paul-de-Vence you will see stunning views and real character. There’s art, history, and architecture, as well as quaint coffee shops to sit, relax and marvel at your surroundings.
4. Best beaches in Southern France
For those looking for lazy days by the beach, here are some more reasons to travel to France. Sun worshippers will be pleased to hear that 7.5km of the 15km Cannes coastline consists of beautiful sandy beaches. Choose from public (no charge) and municipal beaches, where - in season - you can rent sun loungers and umbrellas, and avail of additional facilities such as showers, WC and cafes.
5. Villefranche-sur-Mer
Villefranche-sur-Mer, nestled between Nice and Monaco, is a picturesque harbour town renowned for its deep-blue waters and historic charm. The old town, with its colourful buildings and narrow streets, offers a glimpse into traditional Mediterranean life. You can explore the 16th-century Citadel, enjoy the lively waterfront with its cafes and restaurants, and relax on the sandy beach.
6. Nice
Nice is one of the most popular cities in France and is the French Riviera capital. Here, you can see countless cultural attractions including a colourful flower market and the Promenade des Anglais. This was named in honour of the English aristocracy who holidayed there in the late 18th century and paid for it to be built.
Nice used to be part of the Kingdom of Italy until the Treaty of Turin in 1860. In the old town of Nice, this is evident as you will notice a different style of architecture which definitely feels more Italian. History and art lovers will enjoy French Riviera travel as it has an abundance of museums to choose from, more so than the city of Paris, such as Musée Matisse where you can learn more about the famous French artist Henri Matisse. With a fabulous location on the French Riviera, a Nice City Break is also perfect for a quick relaxing getaway.
7. Antibes
Another must-visit destination on the French Riviera is Antibes, a captivating town celebrated for its enchanting old town, featuring narrow, winding streets and historic buildings that exude charm. Antibes is also home to the Picasso Museum, which showcases the works of Pablo Picasso during his time in the town
8. Grasse
Grasse, often dubbed the perfume capital of the world, is a picturesque town nestled in the hills of the French Riviera. It is renowned for its historic perfume industry, with several perfume factories offering insightful tours where visitors can learn about the art of fragrance creation.
9. Rothschild Villa
The Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild, located on the Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat peninsula, is a stunning example of early 20th-century architecture and landscape design. Built by Baroness Béatrice de Rothschild, the villa features a blend of Italian, Spanish, and French styles. Its lush gardens, inspired by various themes such as French and Japanese provide a serene setting with breathtaking views of the Mediterranean.
10. Delicious Provencal Cuisine
Being close to the Italian border, the French Riviera's cuisine is a delightful blend of Mediterranean flavours, showcasing the region's rich culinary heritage. Make sure to sample socca, a type of flatbread made from chickpea flour and salad nicoise, both specialities from Nice. Additionally, savour the fresh seafood, such as oysters and mussels, often paired with locally produced olive oil, garlic, and aromatic herbs. Don't miss traditional Provençal dishes like ratatouille and bouillabaisse.
Get the full French Riviera experience with Travel Department and enjoy our Cannes & the Cote d’Azur holiday; a trip to one of the best destinations in France is a perfect way to relax and treat yourself.
